BCCI rubbishes talk of VVS Laxman as next India Test coach

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has moved quickly to quell speculation surrounding the men’s Test head coach role, with secretary Devajit Saikia categorically denying that batting legend VVS Laxman has been approached for the position. Reports in sections of the media had suggested that Laxman, currently involved with India’s pathway and National Cricket Academy structures, was being lined up to take over the red-ball side. Saikia, however, labelled those claims “factually incorrect and baseless”, stressing that no formal talks have taken place and that the board will follow its established process whenever a vacancy arises. The clarification comes at a sensitive time for Indian cricket, with the team managing a demanding multi-format schedule and public debate continuing over long-term planning for the Test side. The current coaching framework, including support staff, remains intact as India look ahead to upcoming home and away assignments in the new World Test Championship cycle. While Laxman’s name has often been linked with national coaching roles due to his technical acumen and work with young players, BCCI’s firm rebuttal suggests no imminent shake-up. For now, the focus remains on on-field performance rather than the rumour mill, though the episode underlines how closely the coaching question is watched in Indian cricket’s high-pressure environment.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

Nortje targets T20 World Cup berth after impressive comeback

South Africa fast bowler Anrich Nortje has declared himself ready for a serious push towards the 2026 T20 World Cup after what he describes as a vital two-month period back in the national setup. Having battled injuries and form concerns over the past year, the pace spearhead believes his recent workload has given him the perfect platform to reclaim a permanent place in South Africa’s shortest-format plans. Nortje has featured across domestic and international T20s in recent weeks, gradually building rhythm and pace. Speaking to reporters, he admitted the road back had been challenging but stressed that the focus now is on staying fit and delivering consistent spells, particularly at the death and with the new ball. With South Africa set to announce their preliminary squad for the next T20 World Cup shortly, Nortje’s late surge has come at an opportune time. The Proteas have experimented with several fast-bowling options, but the 31-year-old’s raw speed and big-match experience remain significant assets. Team management is understood to be encouraged by his progress, with selectors closely monitoring his overs and recovery. If he can sustain this upward trajectory through upcoming domestic fixtures and any T20I opportunities, Nortje is likely to force his way back into the conversation as South Africa look to assemble a balanced attack for global conditions.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

Two-day Ashes Test stuns MCG curator as CA flags pitch worries

The fallout from the extraordinary two-day Ashes Test in Melbourne continues, with MCG chief curator Matt Page admitting he was left in a "state of shock" after 22 wickets tumbled on the opening day before the match hurtled to an early finish. Cricket Australia chief Todd Greenberg has since voiced concern, warning that ultra-short Tests are "bad for business" and risk alienating fans. The Boxing Day Test, traditionally a jewel in the Australian cricket calendar, turned into a low-scoring shootout as both batting line-ups struggled on a surface offering lavish seam movement and variable bounce. While bowlers relished the conditions, questions have been raised about whether the pitch crossed the line from challenging to excessive. Page acknowledged that curators aim to strike a balance between bat and ball but conceded that this particular strip did not play as intended. Cricket Australia is expected to conduct a review, working with the MCG ground staff to ensure future Test pitches provide a more durable contest extending deeper into the scheduled five days. The episode has reopened the broader debate around Test pitch preparation worldwide, with administrators keen to maintain competitive cricket without compromising player safety or spectator value. For Melbourne, the priority will be restoring confidence that the iconic venue can deliver hard-fought, multi-day Ashes epics, rather than two-day anomalies.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

Laura Harris smashes record-equalling fastest women’s T20 fifty

Australian power-hitter Laura Harris has stormed into the record books, producing one of the most explosive innings in women’s T20 history to equal the mark for the fastest fifty in the format. The right-hander brought up her half-century in a blur of boundaries, thrilling a packed crowd and underlining the rapid evolution of the women’s game. Coming in with the innings finely balanced, Harris immediately shifted the momentum, targeting both pace and spin with fearless intent. Her strokeplay, built around clean hitting down the ground and over midwicket, left the opposition attack short of answers as the run rate surged. The landmark, achieved in just a handful of deliveries, places Harris alongside the quickest scorers seen in women’s T20s, further enhancing her growing reputation as a specialist finisher. Her blitz not only powered her side to a commanding total but also provided a timely reminder of the impact pure striking can have in the modern game. Coaches and teammates hailed the innings as a statement performance, suggesting it could influence how teams structure their middle orders in upcoming domestic and international competitions. For fans, it was another showcase of the increasing power and skill on display in women’s cricket, with Harris’s record-equalling feat set to feature prominently in highlight reels for years to come.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

Pakistan Rest Big Guns for Sri Lanka T20Is

Pakistan have unveiled a significantly revamped T20I squad for next month’s three-match series in Sri Lanka, choosing to rest several senior pillars including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf and Mohammad Rizwan. Selectors have instead doubled down on youth and recent domestic performers, signalling a clear intent to broaden the national pool ahead of a packed 2026 calendar. The touring party features a clutch of uncapped or lightly capped players, with emphasis on power-hitting in the middle order and greater pace-bowling depth. Team management is understood to view the Sri Lanka trip as a low-risk window to stress-test emerging talent in Asian conditions. The side has often leaned heavily on its senior quartet in white-ball cricket; this series offers a rare glimpse of how Pakistan cope without their established stars in both batting and bowling. The decision is also likely to be read as workload management after an intense run of international and franchise cricket for the senior group. With global tournaments on the horizon and domestic T20 leagues competing for player availability, Pakistan’s think-tank appears keen to avoid burnout while identifying genuine back-ups. Sri Lanka, rebuilding themselves, will see opportunity in facing an inexperienced visiting line-up at home. For Pakistan’s youngsters, however, the carrot is enormous: strong performances here could fast‑track them into contention for major ICC events and reshape the pecking order in one of international cricket’s most scrutinised teams.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

Pollard Blitz Seals ILT20 Top-Two Spot for MI Emirates

MI Emirates booked a coveted top-two finish in the ILT20 after a commanding eight‑wicket victory over Dubai Capitals, built on disciplined spin bowling and a ruthless chase led by captain Kieron Pollard. Emirates’ spinners strangled Dubai’s middle order on a surface offering grip and turn, forcing a collapse after a steady start. The Capitals never truly escaped, repeatedly miscuing big shots into the deep as the field was set with aggressive catching positions. A below‑par total was always likely to be exposed by a batting unit stacked with power. In response, MI Emirates lost an early wicket but never ceded control. Pollard arrived with the innings delicately poised and immediately seized the initiative, clearing the ropes with characteristic ease. His calculated assault turned a potentially tricky chase into a procession, as boundaries rained and the required rate plummeted. The win does more than secure a favourable route through the playoffs; it underlines MI Emirates’ growing status as one of the most complete sides in the tournament, with balance across departments and experienced finishers who thrive under pressure. Dubai Capitals, meanwhile, must now navigate a more precarious path, their inconsistency with bat and ball leaving them vulnerable in the race for the final knockout spots in a crowded ILT20 table.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

England Finally Win Ashes Test in Australia After Two-Day MCG Epic

England snapped a 14‑year drought by winning an Ashes Test on Australian soil, edging Australia by four wickets in a frantic two‑day contest at the Melbourne Cricket Ground that has ignited fierce debate over the state of Test pitches. On a grassy surface offering relentless seam movement, 36 wickets tumbled in just over 140 overs. Bowlers from both sides dominated as neither team managed to cross 200 in any innings, with England chasing 175 late on day two to secure a rare away victory. The win trims Australia’s series lead to 3–1 and injects late intrigue into a campaign that had seemed destined for a home procession. Yet the cricket itself has been overshadowed by criticism of the pitch. MCG curator Matthew Page admitted he was in a “state of shock,” conceding the Test “hasn’t gone long enough” and promising to learn from the misfire. Cricket Australia faces a financial hit after a marquee Boxing Day fixture was effectively reduced to a two‑day event, with administrators acknowledging that “short Tests are bad for business.” Players and pundits have been similarly forthright, questioning the absence of any role for spin and arguing that extreme conditions, while entertaining in bursts, risk undermining the balance that sustains the five‑day format. For England, though, the win represents a significant psychological breakthrough ahead of the final Test in Sydney.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

Pant Set to Be Left Out of India Squad for NZ ODI Series

India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant is reportedly set to miss the upcoming home ODI series against New Zealand, with team management poised to prioritise workload management and long‑term fitness over immediate selection. Pant, who has shouldered a heavy burden across formats since returning to international cricket, is understood to be the subject of detailed conditioning plans as India plot their path through a demanding 2026 cycle. While there is no suggestion of a fresh injury, selectors are believed to favour a controlled schedule that reduces the risk of burnout and allows him to peak for marquee events. His likely absence opens the door for alternative keeping options. India have trialled multiple replacements in recent seasons, and this New Zealand series could be pivotal for at least one contender aiming to cement a spot in 50‑over cricket. The balance between batting firepower, glove work and left‑right combinations in the middle order will be closely scrutinised. For New Zealand, a Pant‑less India still represents a formidable challenge, but the removal of one of the game’s most explosive middle‑order threats is significant. For India, the decision reflects a broader shift towards data‑driven player management, where even fan favourites can be rotated if it serves the larger strategic plan for global tournaments and key Test assignments.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

Rickelton Fireworks Ignite MI Cape Town’s SA20 Opener

Ryan Rickelton lit up the SA20 opener at Newlands with a blistering innings for MI Cape Town, propelling his side to a statement victory over Durban’s Super Giants and laying down an early marker in South Africa’s flagship T20 league. Opening the batting on a true surface, the left‑hander launched an audacious assault from the outset, combining crisp drives with savage pulls and inventive scoops. His rapid half‑century wrested control of the contest within the powerplay, forcing Durban’s bowlers into constant recalibration of lengths and fields. By the time he departed to a standing ovation, MI Cape Town had the platform for a formidable total. Durban’s chase never truly caught fire. Early wickets, including both openers inside the first few overs, left them scrambling against disciplined new‑ball bowling and cleverly disguised slower balls at the death. Despite a few brief counterpunches in the middle order, the asking rate spiralled beyond reach as MI Cape Town closed out a comfortable win. Beyond the points, the performance underscores MI Cape Town’s batting depth and their intent to play an aggressive brand of cricket from ball one. For Rickelton, this was a reminder of his credentials in front of national selectors, as SA20 once again serves as a high‑profile audition ground for players eyeing bigger roles with South Africa in the shortest format.

Sunday, 28 December 2025

England Stuns Australia in Epic MCG Ashes Thriller!

In a stunning turnaround, England clinched a historic four-wicket victory over Australia in the fourth Ashes Test at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 27, 2025. Captain Ben Stokes described the win as 'really special,' highlighting the team's resilience after a tough series. Josh Tongue's pace bowling proved pivotal, guiding England to chase down the target despite earlier injury setbacks that nearly ended his career. The match, concluding in just two days, sparked controversy over the MCG pitch. Stokes slammed it harshly, stating that such a surface elsewhere would face 'hell-on' criticism. Michael Vaughan echoed fan disappointment, urging no celebrations over the curtailed contest. Australia skipper Steve Smith admitted England outplayed them in the Boxing Day clash. England's triumph levels the series, boosting morale ahead of the decider. Tongue's perseverance shone through, dismissing key batsmen and sealing the deal. Fans worldwide buzzed with reactions, from pitch debates to celebrations of England's grit. This victory marks a high point in a fiercely contested Ashes, with both teams now eyeing supremacy in the final Test. Stokes' leadership and the bowlers' fire have reignited England's campaign Down Under.

Saturday, 27 December 2025

Tragic Loss: Dhaka Capitals Coach Collapses at Stadium

The cricket world mourns the sudden passing of Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki, who collapsed at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on December 27, 2025. The incident occurred during a match, sending shockwaves through the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Zaki, a dedicated figure in domestic cricket, was rushed to medical care but could not be saved. Tributes poured in from players, officials, and fans, highlighting his passion and contributions to the sport. Dhaka Capitals expressed devastation, vowing to honor his legacy. This heartbreaking event underscores the intense pressures of professional coaching. Investigations into the cause are underway, with authorities ensuring support for the team. The BPL continues amid grief, with matches dedicated to Zaki's memory. Cricket administrators reiterated commitments to player and staff welfare, including health protocols at venues. Zaki's untimely demise reminds the community of life's fragility, uniting rivals in sorrow. His influence on young talents will endure, inspiring future generations in Bangladesh cricket.

Saturday, 27 December 2025

Shaheen Struggles: Afridi's BBL Form Disappoints Heat Fans

Pakistan pace sensation Shaheen Afridi has endured a challenging stint in the Big Bash League (BBL) with Brisbane Heat, falling short of expectations as of December 27, 2025. Despite high hopes, his bowling figures have lacked the usual fire, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts. Afridi, known for express pace and swing, has struggled on Australian pitches, conceding runs and claiming fewer wickets. Brisbane Heat management backs him, citing adjustment phases for overseas stars. Teammates emphasize his potential to turn it around in crucial games. The BBL's competitive intensity tests all imports, and Afridi's dip serves as a reminder of T20 volatility. Pakistan fans remain supportive, viewing it as a learning curve ahead of international duties. Heat eyes playoff push, with Afridi key to their attack. Experts predict a bounce-back, drawing parallels to past overseas recoveries. This phase could refine his skills, benefiting Pakistan cricket long-term.

Saturday, 27 December 2025

Rickelton's SA20 Ton in Vain as MI Cape Town Lose Opener

In a thrilling start to SA20 Season 4, MI Cape Town suffered a 15-run defeat to Durban's Super Giants at Newlands, despite Ryan Rickelton's maiden century. The opener smashed a brilliant 102 off 54 balls, anchoring the chase after Super Giants posted a formidable total powered by explosive batting from their top order. Rickelton's knock, filled with elegant drives and powerful pulls, kept MI Cape Town in the hunt until the final overs. Super Giants' bowlers, led by seasoned campaigners, held their nerve under pressure, restricting the Cape Town side just short of the target. The match showcased the high-octane T20 action fans crave, with boundaries flowing freely on the picturesque Newlands pitch. Captains from both sides praised the intensity, highlighting Rickelton's effort as a standout performance. This opener sets the tone for an action-packed SA20 season, where imported stars and local talents collide. MI Cape Town will look to bounce back quickly, while Super Giants aim to build momentum. Rickelton's century not only marks a personal milestone but also signals his readiness for bigger stages. As the league progresses, expect more such edge-of-the-seat encounters blending skill, strategy, and spectacle in South Africa's premier T20 extravaganza.

Saturday, 27 December 2025

Boland Strikes! Crawley Falls for 37 on Ashes Day 2

Day 2 of the fourth Ashes Test at Melbourne Cricket Ground saw Australia strike early through Scott Boland, dismissing England's Zak Crawley for 37. Crawley's patient knock came after England's top-order struggles, providing a crucial breakthrough for the hosts aiming to press their advantage. Boland's precise bowling exploited the conditions, with the MCG pitch offering seam movement that has drawn criticism from former players. Australia, buoyed by their first-innings lead despite collapsing to 152, look to dominate proceedings. England's batsmen face a test of resilience against a fired-up Aussie attack. The match has already produced drama, with Day 1's remarkable collapse marking a historic first. Spectators at the iconic venue witnessed intense rivalry, underscoring the Ashes' enduring appeal. As the series hangs in balance, both teams eye vital points. Boland's wicket injects fresh momentum, setting up a compelling battle under the Melbourne sun. Fans worldwide are glued, anticipating twists in this classic Test encounter.

Saturday, 27 December 2025

Harmanpreet Kaur Hits Milestone in IND-W vs SL-W T20I

India women's captain Harmanpreet Kaur notched a significant milestone in the third T20I against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram, captivating fans with her consistency. The skipper's achievement underscores her pivotal role in the team's dominance, contributing to a series-clinching performance. India's bowlers, spearheaded by Renuka Singh Thakur and Deepti Sharma, set up the win before Shafali Verma's explosive 79 sealed an eight-wicket victory. Kaur's presence stabilized the innings, blending experience with flair. The 3-0 lead cements India's supremacy in the series. This triumph highlights the resurgence of women's cricket in India, drawing massive crowds and viewership. Kaur's milestone adds to her illustrious career, inspiring young talents. As the series wraps up, focus shifts to future challenges, with the team riding high on confidence and form.

Saturday, 27 December 2025

MCG Madness: Record Crowd Witnesses 20-Wicket Day!

Day one of the fourth Ashes Test at the MCG will be etched in cricket folklore, defined by jaw-dropping numbers from a chaotic 20-wicket frenzy. A record 94,199 spectators – eclipsing the 2015 World Cup final crowd – packed the venue, witnessing England's bowlers strike gold before their batsmen imploded. Australia were routed for 152, with Josh Tongue's 5-45 the standout. He dismissed Steve Smith for the third time in Tests, extending his dominance. Michael Neser's gritty 35 topped Australia's scores, while Harry Brook's 41 was the day's highest. England's 110 all out marked their lowest MCG score since Scott Boland's 6-7 haul in 2022. Eleven batsmen fell in single figures, including Joe Root's rare duck. Post-tea carnage saw eight wickets for 25 runs in 67 balls. Jhye Richardson returned after 1,467 days, conceding 0-8. The pitch's 10mm grass cover fueled the swing and seam. With Australia 4-0 in their second innings, England trail by 42. Series leaders by 3-0, the hosts eye a whitewash. Tongue's gems and brilliant catches, like Ben Stokes' screamer, lit up the day. This mad-cap opener, surpassing even Cape Town's 23-wicket day in 2024, promises more thrills as England fight to salvage pride.

Friday, 26 December 2025

Ashes Chaos: 20 Wickets Fall on Day 1 at MCG!

In a historic day of Test cricket, the Melbourne Cricket Ground witnessed an astonishing 20 wickets tumble on the opening day of the fourth Ashes Test. England captain Ben Stokes won the toss and elected to bowl first on a lively pitch, a decision that paid immediate dividends. Fast bowler Josh Tongue starred with figures of 5-45, dismantling Australia's top order by dismissing key batsmen Steve Smith for 9 and Marnus Labuschagne for 6. Supported by sharp fielding, including a brilliant run-out by Brydon Carse, England skittled the hosts for just 152 in 45.2 overs before a packed crowd of 94,199 – the largest ever for a cricket match at the venue. However, England's batting imploded spectacularly. Openers Ben Duckett (2) and Zak Crawley (5) fell cheaply, with debutant Jacob Bethell managing just 1. Mitchell Starc and Michael Neser, playing his first red-ball Test, tore through the top order as England slumped to 8-3 inside five overs. Joe Root registered a 15-ball duck, while Harry Brook's dashing 41 offered brief resistance. The tourists were all out for 110 in under 30 overs, trailing by 42 runs. Australia open their second innings with Scott Boland and Travis Head unbeaten. This manic Boxing Day has intensified scrutiny on England's 'Bazball' approach amid a 3-0 series deficit. With the series lost in 11 days, Stokes' men aim to avoid a 5-0 whitewash. Tongue's dominance and the pitch's seam-friendly nature set the stage for more drama across the next four days.

Friday, 26 December 2025

Kohli's 77 Breaks World Record in Vijay Hazare!

Virat Kohli continues to defy age and expectations, smashing a masterful 77 to lead Delhi to 254/9 against Gujarat in the Vijay Hazare Trophy clash in Bengaluru on December 26, 2025. The 37-year-old's knock not only anchored the innings but also shattered Michael Bevan's long-standing world record for the highest average in List A cricket history, underscoring Kohli's relentless pursuit of excellence even in domestic cricket. Most players wind down post-international duty, but Kohli has ramped up, treating every game with the intensity of a World Cup final. His elegant strokeplay silenced critics and delighted fans, proving his class transcends formats. Delhi's total sets a challenging target on a pitch offering assistance to bowlers. Meanwhile, the tournament buzzes with young talents like 14-year-old Vaibhav Suryavanshi, honored with the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar by President Droupadi Murmu for his exploits, including a blistering 190 off 84 balls. Ravichandran Ashwin lauded the prodigy, highlighting India's rich talent pool. As domestic seasons heat up, Kohli's record and Suryavanshi's rise signal a bright future for Indian cricket, blending experience with youthful flair.

Friday, 26 December 2025

14-Year-Old Vaibhav Wins National Award!

In a proud moment for Indian cricket, President Droupadi Murmu presented the prestigious Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar to 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi on December 26, 2025, recognizing his extraordinary talent. The young batter skipped Bihar's Vijay Hazare Trophy match against Manipur to receive the honor in New Delhi, capping a breakout year highlighted by a sensational 190 off 84 balls against Arunachal Pradesh. R Ashwin showered praise on Suryavanshi, calling his innings 'phenomenal' and a sign of India's burgeoning talent. Debuting for Bihar at 13, the left-hander has drawn comparisons to legends with his fearless approach and timing. The award, India's highest for young achievers, spotlights his potential to dominate future cycles. Suryavanshi's rise amid the Vijay Hazare frenzy, alongside stars like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, paints a vibrant picture of domestic cricket. While peers chase records, this teen's exploits remind us of the sport's next generation. As he returns to the field, expectations soar for IPL and international breakthroughs, fueling dreams of another Indian superstar.

Friday, 26 December 2025