January 2026 - Finebook247

Pat Cummins Out of T20 World Cup; Renshaw In, Smith Misses Out

Posted on January 31, 2026 by [email protected]

Australia’s T20 World Cup campaign has taken a major hit with captain Pat Cummins ruled out of the tournament due to fitness concerns. The late setback has forced selectors to reshuffle the squad, making some tough calls ahead of the global event.

In another notable change, Travis Head’s opening partner Will Short has been dropped. With Matthew Renshaw earning a recall to the squad thanks to his versatility and recent form. Meanwhile, veteran batter Steve Smith has once again missed out on selection. As Australia continues to back a younger, more aggressive T20-focused lineup.

The revised squad signals Australia’s intent to prioritize flexibility and power-hitting as they prepare to defend their title ambitions in the fast-paced T20 format.

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Posted on January 30, 2026January 31, 2026 by [email protected]

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Sophie Molineux Named Australia’s All-Format Captain in Major Leadership Move

Posted on January 29, 2026 by [email protected]

In a landmark decision for Australian women’s cricket, spin-bowling all-rounder Sophie Molineux has been named the new captain of the Australian women’s team across all three formats — Test, One-Day Internationals and Twenty20 Internationals — succeeding the retiring Alyssa Healy.

The announcement by Cricket Australia marks a bold new chapter in the game’s most successful women’s setup, reaffirming Australia’s commitment to long-term leadership continuity as the team prepares for a packed international calendar. Molineux, 28, has been entrusted with leading the team following Healy’s decision earlier this month to retire from international cricket after the upcoming multi-format home series against India.

A New Leadership Era

Molineux’s elevation to captaincy is significant for several reasons. Known for her calm temperament, tactical acumen and versatile skill set — combining left-arm spin bowling with useful lower-order batting — she has been a consistent figure in Australia’s setup since her debut in 2018.

Her first assignment as captain will come in the three-match T20I series against India Women, beginning on February 15 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Cricket Australia is clearly looking to start the new leadership era on home soil ahead of major events later in the year, including the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2026 in England.

Transition from Healy’s Legacy

Alyssa Healy’s captaincy has been one of the most successful phases in Australian cricket history. Under her stewardship, the side won multiple global titles and maintained an impressive winning culture. With Healy’s impending retirement, Sophie Molineux steps into enormous shoes but with the backing of a team rich in talent and experience.

Healy’s legacy includes powerful leadership in white-ball formats, and she played a key role in maintaining Australia’s dominance in world cricket. The transition reflects a strategic plan by selectors to ensure continuity while also injecting fresh leadership ideas into the dressing room.

Leadership Credentials & Challenges

Despite having faced injury challenges in recent years — including knee and foot problems that sidelined her from parts of international cricket — Molineux’s leadership potential has been clear in domestic circles. She captained the Melbourne Renegades to their maiden Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) title and has been a standout performer in both domestic and franchise competitions.

Selectors have backed her long-term leadership prospects, with vice-captains Tahlia McGrath and Ashleigh Gardner named to support Molineux, adding depth and experience to the leadership group.

However, the decision was not without debate, with some observers noting that other candidates like McGrath or Gardner could have been contenders. Despite this, Cricket Australia’s management team believes Molineux’s strategic thinking, rapport with teammates and on-field composure make her the right choice for steering Australia into the next era.

Looking Ahead

As Australia readies itself for the India series and beyond, the Molineux captaincy represents both a reward for her resilience and a statement of intent for the future. With the Women’s T20 World Cup on the horizon, fans and pundits alike will be watching closely as she leads one of the world’s best sides.

England’s Amy Jones Replaces Injured Phoebe Litchfield at UP Warriorz

Posted on January 28, 2026January 28, 2026 by [email protected]

In a significant mid-tournament change for the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026. England wicketkeeper-batter Amy Jones has been named as the replacement for injured Australian top-scorer Phoebe Litchfield in the UP Warriorz squad for the remainder of the season.

Litchfield, who had been one of the season’s standout performers for UPW with 243 runs in six matches. Has been ruled out due to a quad injury and has returned home to begin rehabilitation. Her absence represents a major blow to the Warriorz’s batting strength, especially as they fight to improve their playoff chances.

Amy Jones brings a wealth of international experience, having played over 125 T20 Internationals for England. The seasoned wicketkeeper-batter is expected to bolster both the batting order and the fielding unit as UPW look to climb the points table in the latter stages of the tournament.

With crucial matches ahead, including fixtures against Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Delhi Capitals. The Warriorz will be counting on Jones’s experience to steady the ship and push for vital wins.

Glenn Maxwell Signs New Two-Year Deal with Melbourne Stars

Posted on January 27, 2026 by [email protected]

Australian all-rounder Glenn Maxwell has committed his future to the Melbourne Stars after signing a new two-year contract, strengthening the franchise ahead of upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) seasons. The dynamic batter and off-spin option remains a key pillar for the Stars, bringing leadership, experience, and explosive power to the middle order.

Maxwell’s extension is a major boost for the Stars as they aim for consistency and silverware. Known for his 360-degree stroke play and game-changing cameos, Glenn Maxwell has been one of the most influential players in BBL history. His presence not only enhances on-field performance but also adds mentorship value to younger talents in the squad.

With this new deal, Melbourne Stars signal their intent to build a competitive core around proven match-winners, keeping fans excited for what lies ahead in the next two seasons.

Fresh Faces Headline India’s Squad for Australia Test Series

Posted on January 24, 2026 by [email protected]

India have named a refreshed squad for the upcoming Test series against Australia, with several new faces earning call-ups as the selectors look to build depth and prepare for the future. The inclusion of young and in-form players highlights the team management’s intent to blend experience with fresh energy ahead of a challenging overseas assignment.

The newcomers have impressed with consistent performances in domestic cricket and recent red-ball competitions, earning their opportunity on the big stage. Their selection adds competition within the squad and provides India with more tactical options, especially in conditions where adaptability and resilience are key.

While the core of experienced players remains intact to provide stability, the fresh inclusions signal a gradual transition and long-term vision. As India gear up to face Australia in a high-intensity Test series, all eyes will be on how these new faces rise to the challenge and contribute at the highest level.

Nathan Ellis Ruled Out of Remainder of BBL Finals with Hamstring Injury

Posted on January 23, 2026 by [email protected]

Hobart Hurricanes have been dealt a significant setback ahead of the Big Bash League finals. After fast bowler Nathan Ellis was ruled out of the remainder of the tournament due to a hamstring injury. The Australian pacer sustained the injury during a crucial stage of the competition, ruling him out of the Hurricanes’ finals campaign.

Ellis has been one of Hobart’s standout performers this season, particularly in pressure situations at the death. Known for his sharp yorkers and clever variations, his absence leaves a major gap in the Hurricanes’ bowling attack as they prepare for knockout matches.

Team officials confirmed that Nathan Ellis will now focus on rehabilitation, with the medical staff prioritizing his long-term fitness. No replacement has been officially announced yet. But the Hurricanes are expected to rework their bowling combination to manage the loss.

As the BBL finals intensify, Hobart will need other bowlers to step up and deliver under pressure in Ellis’ absence. The injury also has implications for fantasy cricket players. Who may need to rethink their squad selections heading into the decisive phase of the tournament.

Dhananjaya de Silva Returns to Sri Lanka’s ODI Squad for England Series

Posted on January 22, 2026January 22, 2026 by [email protected]

Sri Lanka have received a timely boost ahead of their upcoming ODI series against England with the return of experienced all-rounder Dhananjaya de Silva to the national squad. His inclusion marks an important step as Sri Lanka look to rebuild consistency in the 50-over format and challenge one of the strongest white-ball teams in world cricket.

Dhananjaya de Silva has been a key figure in Sri Lanka’s middle order over the years. Known for his calm temperament, technical batting ability, and handy off-spin bowling. His return adds much-needed balance to the squad, especially in conditions. Where all-rounders play a crucial role in controlling the tempo of the game. The team management is expected to rely on his experience to stabilize the innings during pressure situations and provide tactical flexibility.

The ODI series against England is seen as a significant test for Sri Lanka, not only in terms of results. But also as part of their long-term planning. England’s aggressive brand of white-ball cricket demands discipline, adaptability, and smart decision-making—areas where Dhananjaya’s experience could prove invaluable. His ability to rotate the strike, build partnerships, and accelerate when required makes him a strong asset in the middle overs.

From a bowling perspective, Dhananjaya’s off-spin offers the captain an additional option, particularly against England’s left-handed batters. His presence allows Sri Lanka to manage workloads of frontline bowlers and maintain control in crucial phases of the match. This versatility is especially important in ODIs, where balance often determines success.

Dhananjaya de Silva

The selection also reflects Sri Lanka Cricket’s focus on blending experience with emerging talent. While younger players bring energy and fearlessness. Seasoned campaigners like Dhananjaya provide stability and leadership on the field. His return could also help mentor upcoming players, guiding them through high-pressure international contests.

As the England series approaches, Sri Lankan fans will be eager to see how Dhananjaya de Silva performs on his comeback. A strong showing could not only strengthen Sri Lanka’s chances in the series. But also cement his role in the team’s ODI plans going forward. With conditions, opposition, and expectations all lining up, his return adds an intriguing storyline to what promises to be a competitive and closely watched series.

Suryakumar Confirms Ishan Kishan at No.3, Plays Down His Own Lack of Runs

Posted on January 21, 2026 by [email protected]

India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has put an end to speculation around the batting order by confirming that Ishan Kishan will continue to bat at No.3. While calmly brushing aside concerns about his own recent lack of big scores.

Speaking ahead of the upcoming international fixture, Suryakumar emphasized the importance of role clarity within the batting unit. He stated that Ishan Kishan’s aggressive intent and ability to dominate the middle overs make him a natural fit at No.3. Especially in high-pressure T20 situations. According to the skipper. Ishan’s approach allows the team to maintain momentum after the powerplay and put bowlers under constant pressure.

On his own form, Suryakumar played down the narrative around runs, stressing that leadership and impact go beyond personal statistics. He highlighted that modern T20 cricket is about intent, adaptability, and setting the tone for the rest of the lineup. “If the team is winning and players are executing their roles, individual numbers don’t matter much,” he remarked.

Suryakumar Yadav

The Indian captain also backed the team’s overall balance. Pointing out that consistency in the batting order helps players settle into defined roles. With young talents and experienced campaigners working in tandem. India aims to build a stable yet aggressive top order heading into a packed international calendar.

For Ishan Kishan, the backing from the captain could be a confidence booster as he looks to cement his place in the middle order. His ability to attack spin, rotate strike, and accelerate when needed adds flexibility to India’s batting strategy.

As India prepares for crucial matches ahead, Suryakumar’s calm approach reflects a leadership style focused on trust, clarity, and team success. With roles clearly defined and pressure kept at bay. The Indian setup appears keen on fostering a fearless brand of cricket—one where confidence is built through responsibility rather than numbers alone.

David Miller Injury Deepens South Africa’s T20 World Cup Concerns

Posted on January 20, 2026January 20, 2026 by [email protected]

South Africa’s preparations for the upcoming T20 World Cup have taken another hit as David Miller has been sidelined with an injury. Adding to the team’s growing list of worries. The experienced left-hander, known for his explosive finishing ability and calm presence in pressure situations, is a vital cog in the Proteas’ middle order.

David Miller injury comes at a crucial time, with South Africa already managing fitness issues around key players. His absence could disrupt team balance. Especially in close matches where his power-hitting and experience often turn games in South Africa’s favour. The team management is closely monitoring his recovery. With hopes that he can return to full fitness before the tournament begins.

As the T20 World Cup approaches, South Africa will be eager to stabilize their squad, finalize combinations, and ensure their star players are match-ready. Miller’s recovery will be a major talking point as the Proteas look to overcome injury setbacks and mount a strong challenge on the global stage.

Month: January 2026