December 2025 - Finebook247

Deepti Sharma Becomes the Highest Wicket-Taker in Women’s T20 Internationals

Posted on December 31, 2025 by [email protected]

Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma etched her name into the history books by becoming the highest wicket-taker in Women’s T20 Internationals (WT20Is). Further cementing her status as one of the most impactful bowlers in the shortest format of the game. Known for her consistency, control, and tactical intelligence. Deepti’s milestone is a reflection of years of hard work and match-winning performances for India.

The off-spinner reached the landmark during a crucial international fixture, surpassing some of the biggest names in women’s cricket. Her ability to bowl economically. While striking at key moments has made her a captain’s go-to option, especially in pressure situations. Whether operating in the powerplay or tightening the screws in the middle overs, Deepti has repeatedly delivered breakthroughs. When her team needed them most.

Deepti Sharma

Deepti Sharma’s success in WT20Is is built on accuracy and variation rather than sheer pace. She consistently troubles batters with subtle changes in flight, pace, and angles, forcing errors and creating wicket-taking opportunities. Her calm demeanor on the field and sharp cricketing brain have played a vital role in her long-term success at the international level.

Beyond the numbers, this achievement highlights Deepti’s importance to Indian women’s cricket. Over the years, she has evolved into a complete all-rounder, contributing valuable runs down the order while maintaining her reputation as a reliable wicket-taker. Her performances in global tournaments and bilateral series have been instrumental in India’s rise as a competitive force in women’s T20 cricket.

This record also serves as an inspiration for young cricketers aspiring to represent India on the world stage. Deepti’s journey—from age-group cricket to becoming a global record-holder—demonstrates the rewards of discipline, patience, and continuous improvement. As women’s cricket continues to grow in popularity and competitiveness. Milestones like these underline the depth of talent and commitment among modern players.

With several years of cricket still ahead of her. Deepti Sharma looks set to push the benchmark even further. Her record-breaking feat will be remembered as a defining moment in WT20I history and a proud chapter for Indian cricket fans worldwide.

Afridi to Return to Pakistan from BBL After Suffering Knee Injury

Posted on December 30, 2025 by [email protected]

Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi is set to return home from the Big Bash League. After sustaining a knee injury during the tournament. The injury has raised concerns for both his BBL franchise and Pakistan cricket. With team management opting not to risk the star pacer’s long-term fitness.

Afridi, who has been a key attraction in the BBL with his express pace and wicket-taking ability, will undergo further medical assessment in Pakistan. The decision to withdraw him from the remainder of the tournament has been taken as a precautionary measure. Especially with important international assignments ahead for Pakistan.

His absence will be a setback for his BBL side, but Pakistan Cricket Board will closely monitor his recovery, hoping for a swift and complete return to action. Fans will be eager to see Afridi back at full strength, continuing to lead Pakistan’s pace attack across formats.

Gus Atkinson Ruled Out of Final Ashes Test in Sydney

Posted on December 29, 2025December 29, 2025 by [email protected]

England have suffered another major setback ahead of the fifth and final Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, with fast bowler Gus Atkinson ruled out due to injury. The England camp confirmed that Atkinson will miss the series finale after scans revealed a hamstring strain, dealing a further blow to an already depleted pace attack.

Atkinson sustained the injury during the fourth Test. Where he experienced discomfort while bowling and was unable to complete his full workload. Medical assessments following the match showed that the injury would require rest and rehabilitation, prompting team management to take a cautious approach and rule him out of the Sydney Test.

The absence of Atkinson compounds England’s growing injury concerns. With Mark Wood and Jofra Archer already unavailable. England’s fast-bowling resources have been stretched thin throughout the series. Atkinson had been one of the brighter performers, offering pace, control, and crucial breakthroughs in challenging Australian conditions. His ability to hit the deck hard and extract bounce made him a key component of England’s bowling plans.

Gus Atkinson

Selectors are now expected to reshuffle the bowling combination for the final Test. Bowlers such as Matthew Potts or Matthew Fisher are likely to be considered as replacements. While England may also lean heavily on all-rounders and their remaining fit seamers to shoulder the workload. The management will also closely monitor player fitness given the physical toll of a long and demanding Ashes series.

For England, Atkinson’s absence is not just a tactical loss. But also a psychological one, as the team looks to finish the tour on a positive note. The Sydney Test traditionally offers something for both batters and bowlers. And England will need disciplined bowling and smart field placements to challenge a confident Australian side.

Despite the injury setback, England’s focus remains on showing resilience and character in the final Test. The team will hope that the incoming bowler can rise to the occasion and that senior players step up to deliver a competitive performance at the SCG.

The Ashes may already be decided. But pride, momentum, and individual performances remain firmly on the line as England aim to end the series with a statement in Sydney.

Australia Seize Handy Lead After Josh Tongue Five-For on 20-Wicket Day

Posted on December 26, 2025 by [email protected]

Australia tightened their grip on the Test match after a dramatic 20-wicket day, seizing a handy lead as England pacer Josh Tongue claimed an impressive five-wicket haul. The match witnessed relentless pace, sharp movement, and fluctuating momentum, making it one of the most action-packed days of the contest.

The day began with conditions heavily favoring fast bowlers, and both teams’ batting line-ups found survival difficult. Josh Tongue emerged as England’s standout performer with the ball, exploiting seam movement and bounce to dismantle Australia’s middle and lower order. His five-wicket haul not only kept England in the contest but also prevented Australia from posting a commanding first-innings total.

Josh Tongue

Despite Tongue’s heroics, Australia managed to secure a crucial lead, thanks largely to valuable contributions from their lower order and disciplined batting at key moments. Runs were hard to come by, but Australia showed resilience, grinding out partnerships that ultimately proved decisive in the context of the match.

England’s reply, however, mirrored Australia’s struggles. The Australian pace attack, led by their experienced quicks, struck early and often. Seamers found consistent movement, and the pitch continued to offer uneven bounce, making stroke-making a risky affair. England’s top order faltered under pressure, losing wickets in clusters and allowing Australia to dictate terms for most of the day.

The turning point came during a devastating spell after lunch, when Australia removed England’s set batters in quick succession. Tight lines, aggressive fields, and relentless accuracy forced errors, leaving England reeling. While a few batters showed resistance, partnerships failed to flourish, and the scoreboard pressure continued to mount.

By stumps, a total of 20 wickets had fallen, underlining the bowler-dominated nature of the day. Australia’s ability to capitalize on key moments ensured. They ended the day with a valuable lead, one that could prove match-defining given the challenging batting conditions.

Josh Tongue’s five-for will be remembered as a major highlight, showcasing his growing importance in England’s bowling attack. His pace, bounce, and control troubled even Australia’s most accomplished batters. His performance will boost England’s confidence heading into the remainder of the match.

For Australia, the focus now shifts to building on their advantage. With a handy lead already secured, they will look to bat with greater freedom in the next innings, aiming to put England under immense pressure. England, on the other hand, must regroup quickly, with their batters needing to show discipline and adaptability. If they are to stay in the contest.

As the Test heads into the next phase, the balance still hangs delicately. But Australia’s edge after this explosive 20-wicket day places them firmly in the driver’s seat. With conditions continuing to assist the bowlers, fans can expect more drama as the match unfolds.

BCCI Stays Financially Strong Despite Dream11 Exit, ICC Revenue Dip

Posted on December 25, 2025December 25, 2025 by [email protected]

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has once again underlined its financial dominance in world cricket. Maintaining a strong economic position despite the exit of title sponsor Dream11 and a temporary dip in revenue from the International Cricket Council (ICC).

Dream11’s withdrawal, following regulatory changes affecting real-money gaming platforms in India. Initially raised concerns about a potential revenue gap. However, the BCCI’s latest financial disclosures reveal that the impact has been minimal. The board’s diversified income streams, strategic sponsorship planning, and robust reserves have ensured continued financial stability.

One of the key pillars of BCCI’s strength remains the Indian Premier League (IPL). The league continues to generate massive revenues through media rights, team sponsorships, and gate receipts. Long-term broadcasting deals and rising franchise valuations have significantly insulated the board from short-term sponsorship disruptions. Even without Dream11, the BCCI successfully secured new partnerships that helped offset the loss.

Although the BCCI experienced a dip in its ICC revenue share compared to previous cycles. The board’s overall earnings remain unmatched globally. The ICC revenue decline is largely attributed to distribution cycle adjustments rather than structural weakness. In contrast, the BCCI’s domestic revenues have surged, supported by bilateral series, women’s cricket expansion, and grassroots tournaments.

Financial reports also highlight a substantial increase in the BCCI’s general funds, driven by higher interest income and disciplined financial management. With reserves running into tens of thousands of crores, the board is well-positioned to invest in infrastructure development, player welfare programs, and the growth of domestic cricket across India.

Industry experts believe the BCCI’s financial model serves as a benchmark for other cricket boards. Its ability to remain unaffected by sponsor exits and global revenue fluctuations highlights the strength of Indian cricket as a commercial product. The board’s long-term vision, backed by strong governance and commercial planning, continues to safeguard its economic future.

As cricket moves into a more competitive global market, the BCCI’s financial resilience ensures it will remain a central force in shaping the sport’s direction—both on and off the field.

England Rocked by Changes as Jofra Archer Is Ruled Out and Pope Dropped for Melbourne

Posted on December 24, 2025 by [email protected]

England’s Ashes campaign has suffered another major setback with fast bowler Jofra Archer ruled out of the remainder of the series. While Ollie Pope has been dropped from the squad for the Melbourne Test. As the team management looks to arrest a disappointing run of results in Australia.

Archer’s absence is a significant blow for England, who had hoped the express pacer would provide cutting edge and intimidation against a dominant Australian batting lineup. The 29-year-old has struggled with recurring fitness issues, and team officials confirmed that he will return home to continue his rehabilitation. After failing to recover in time for the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. England’s medical staff have opted not to take further risks, prioritising Archer’s long-term fitness over a rushed comeback.

Since making his Ashes debut in 2019, Archer has been one of England’s most potent weapons in hostile conditions. However, injuries have repeatedly interrupted his career. And his latest setback further underlines England’s growing concerns around fast-bowling depth in long overseas tours.

Jofra Archer

Adding to England’s challenges, Ollie Pope has been left out of the playing XI for the Melbourne. Test following a lean run of form. Pope, who was expected to play a key role in the middle order, has struggled for consistency throughout the series. Failing to convert promising starts into substantial scores. With England trailing heavily in the Ashes, selectors have opted for a shake-up in hopes of injecting fresh energy into the side.

The decision to drop Pope signals a more ruthless approach from the England management as pressure mounts after a string of underwhelming performances. Reports suggest the team is keen to explore alternative batting options. Potentially giving opportunities to players who can better adapt to Australian conditions and apply greater resilience against pace and bounce.

England’s tour has been plagued by injuries, form slumps, and tactical challenges. While Australia have capitalised ruthlessly at home. The absence of Archer weakens England’s pace attack, placing added responsibility on the remaining bowlers to deliver breakthroughs on flat pitches. Meanwhile, changes in the batting lineup reflect England’s urgency to find a winning combination before the series slips further away.

The Boxing Day Test at Melbourne now looms as a crucial encounter for England’s pride, if not the series outcome. With Australia enjoying momentum and home advantage, England face an uphill task to remain competitive and restore confidence within the squad.

As England regroup and reassess, the focus will be on rebuilding consistency, managing player workloads. Preparing for future challenges beyond the Ashes. The decisions surrounding Archer and Pope highlight a transitional phase for the team one that demands both patience and bold selection calls.

LSG Send Bowlers to Durban for Training with SA20 Team

Posted on December 22, 2025 by [email protected]

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have taken a proactive step in their preparations for the upcoming Indian Premier League season by sending a group of their bowlers to Durban, South Africa, for a focused training stint with an SA20 franchise team. The move highlights LSG’s commitment to strengthening their bowling resources and ensuring players are well-prepared for high-intensity T20 cricket.

Durban offers ideal conditions for fast bowlers, with pitches that provide pace and bounce. Training in such an environment allows LSG’s bowlers to fine-tune their line and length, work on swing and seam movement, and develop effective variations for different phases of the game. The exposure is expected to be especially beneficial for improving death-over strategies and adaptability across conditions.

The collaboration with the SA20 setup gives LSG players access to experienced coaches and competitive net sessions against quality batters. Sharing knowledge with South African players, who are known for their strong pace-bowling culture, adds further value to the training program. These sessions are designed to replicate match situations, helping bowlers build confidence and tactical awareness.

Team management believes that overseas exposure plays a crucial role in modern cricket development. By training alongside an SA20 team, LSG’s bowlers gain insights into global T20 trends and innovative bowling plans that can be applied in the IPL. The franchise views this initiative as an investment in long-term performance rather than just short-term results.

As LSG aim to make a strong impact in the next IPL season, such targeted preparation could prove decisive. The Durban training stint not only enhances individual skills but also contributes to building a more cohesive and versatile bowling unit ready to face the challenges of the tournament.

No Gill, Jitesh for T20 World Cup; Ishan Kishan Returns to India T20I Squad

Posted on December 20, 2025 by [email protected]

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced India’s T20I squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, and the selection has already sparked widespread discussion among fans and experts. The biggest talking points from the announcement are the omission of Shubman Gill and Jitesh Sharma, while Ishan Kishan has made a notable return to the national T20I setup.

Key Omissions Raise Eyebrows

Shubman Gill’s absence has come as a surprise to many, given his reputation as one of India’s most technically sound batters across formats. While Gill has shown consistency in ODIs and Tests, selectors appear to have prioritised players with a stronger recent impact in the shortest format. His strike rate and role fit in high-pressure T20 World Cup conditions may have influenced the decision.

Similarly, wicketkeeper-batter Jitesh Sharma misses out despite being seen as a promising finisher in recent seasons. Known for his aggressive batting in the middle and death overs, Jitesh’s exclusion suggests the selectors are leaning towards experience and versatility over experimentation as the tournament approaches.

Ishan Kishan’s Comeback

The return of Ishan Kishan marks a significant development in India’s T20 plans. After spending time out of the national side, the left-handed opener has worked his way back through consistent performances in domestic cricket and franchise tournaments. His ability to provide quick starts at the top of the order, combined with his experience as a wicketkeeper, makes him a valuable asset in T20 cricket.

Kishan’s inclusion also adds balance to the squad, offering a left-right opening combination and an aggressive approach in the powerplay—something India has often relied on in global tournaments.

Squad Strategy and Team Balance

The selected squad reflects a clear focus on power-hitting, all-round depth, and bowling flexibility. The management appears intent on building a side that can adapt to different conditions, whether it’s flat batting pitches or slower surfaces where variation and control become crucial.

Experienced campaigners form the backbone of the team, while a few dynamic players provide explosive options with both bat and ball. The emphasis seems to be on players who can contribute in multiple areas, reducing dependency on specialists.

What This Means for India

India’s squad selection indicates a shift towards form and role clarity rather than reputation alone. With the T20 World Cup known for its unforgiving nature, the team management has opted for players who fit specific tactical requirements.

For Gill and Jitesh, the door is not closed. Strong performances in upcoming series and leagues could quickly bring them back into contention. Meanwhile, Ishan Kishan now has a crucial opportunity to cement his place and make a strong impact on the world stage.

Final Thoughts

Squad announcements are always subject to debate, and this one is no different. As India gears up for the T20 World Cup, the focus will now turn to execution on the field. With a blend of experience, firepower, and adaptability, the selected squad will aim to bring consistency and composure when it matters most. Only time will tell whether these bold selection calls pay off on the global stage.

🏏 Travis Head Hometown Heroics Crush England’s Ashes Hopes

Posted on December 19, 2025 by [email protected]

Adelaide, December 19, 2025: Australia’s Travis Head delivered a breathtaking performance at the Adelaide Oval on Friday, smashing an unbeaten 142 to put England’s hopes of a comeback in the third Ashes Test in serious jeopardy. His century — scored in front of a raucous home crowd — was the cornerstone of Australia’s dominant position on day three of the series.

Head’s unbeaten knock was the highlight of a commanding day for the hosts. Who finished the third day on 271-4 in their second innings, leading England by 356 runs with wickets still in hand. The strong total effectively floors any realistic chance England had of staging a comeback. After a brief resurgence earlier in the match.

📊 Match Context

Earlier in the day, England had shown signs of resistance thanks to a spirited batting effort that included useful contributions from Ben Stokes and Jofra Archer. Raising hopes they might claw back into contention. However, despite those efforts, Australia’s bowling attack kept England under pressure. Before Travis Head and fellow South Australian Alex Carey (unbeaten 52) took charge with the bat.

Head’s innings thrilled the Adelaide crowd and reinforced his reputation as one of Australia’s most reliable Test performers, especially on home soil. His fourth century in as many Tests at the historic venue marked a rare achievement and helped Australia tighten their grip on not just this match. But the Ashes series as a whole.

Meanwhile, England’s spin bowling coach Jeetan Patel admitted that England faces an uphill struggle to turn the tide, calling for “something magical” from his side. If they are to salvage the Test match. With a huge deficit and two more games to play, the visitors are now under immense pressure to find a breakthrough performance.

Australia, already up 2-0 in the five-match series. Are now within sight of retaining the coveted Ashes urn — needing only a draw from this game to clinch the series.

Mustafizur Rahman to miss eight days of IPL 2026 due to international duty

Posted on December 18, 2025 by [email protected]

Bangladesh’s left-arm pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman is set to miss eight days of the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season as. He will return to national duty for a key limited-overs series. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) has confirmed that Rahman will rejoin the national squad to play in the One-Day International (ODI) series against New Zealand. Prompting his temporary exit from IPL action.

The 30-year-old was bought by the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a significant ₹9.20 crore at the IPL 2026 auction. Becoming one of the most expensive Bangladeshi players in the tournament’s history. However, with Bangladesh aiming to secure direct qualification for the 2027 ICC Cricket World Cup. Officials have prioritized his participation in the ODI series, scheduled to clash with the IPL calendar.

BCB Cricket Operations Chairman Nazmul Abedin stated that although Rahman has been granted a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the IPL season. He will be excused for approximately eight days to complete national commitments before returning to his IPL franchise. Abedin explained that this temporary absence is a strategic decision intended to bolster Bangladesh’s ODI squad in crucial matches.

Rahman’s brief departure is expected to affect KKR’s plans. But team management remains confident that he will rejoin the side once national duty concludes. Fans and analysts are watching closely to see how his absence could impact KKR’s early campaign in the season.

Month: December 2025