January 2026 - Page 2 of 3

RCB Buoyant as They Chase Fourth Straight Win in WPL 2026

Posted on January 17, 2026 by [email protected]

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) continue to make waves in the Women’s Premier League 2026, riding high on momentum as they chase a fourth consecutive victory in the competition. The Smriti Mandhana-led side has been nothing short of impressive in the early stages of the tournament. Remaining unbeaten and showcasing depth in both batting and bowling departments.

RCB’s latest triumph came against the Gujarat Giants, where they secured a 32-run victory in their ninth match of the season at the Dr DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. After a shaky start with the bat, the team regrouped emphatically. Radha Yadav played a powerful innings, scoring a career-best 66. While Richa Ghosh supported with a brisk 44. Their 105-run partnership helped RCB post a competitive total of 182/7. Off-spinner Shreyanka Patil then turned the game around with a sensational five-wicket haul, dismantling the Giants’ chase and sealing the comprehensive win.

RCB

This win marked RCB’s third successive victory in the tournament, further cementing their position at the top of the WPL points table. Riding on this momentum. The team now face a quick turnaround as they prepare to take on the Delhi Capitals Women in their next fixture — an encounter they will hope to use as an opportunity to push for a fourth straight win and strengthen their claim as title contenders.

The early part of RCB’s WPL campaign also highlighted some dramatic cricket. In the tournament opener against Mumbai Indians Women, South African all-rounder Nadine de Klerk played a match-winning role. Scoring an unbeaten 63 and taking four wickets to guide RCB to a last-ball victory. This thrilling encounter set the tone for a fearless Bengaluru outfit capable of winning under pressure.

Another standout performance came against UP Warriorz Women. Where RCB chased down their target with ease thanks to a dominant batting display led by Grace Harris (85 off 40). Underlining the team’s batting depth and flexibility.

RCB’s consistent results so far this season have made them one of the most exciting sides to watch in WPL 2026. Their ability to overcome early setbacks in matches. Adapt quickly, and turn performances around highlights a well-balanced squad brimming with match-winners.

As RCB prepare for their next match, fans will be eager to see whether they can sustain their unbeaten run and push toward playoff qualification with confidence. Their mix of experience, aggressive batting, tactical spins, and tight death bowling has set a high bar. They’ll be keen to maintain that level as the tournament progresses.

Stay tuned for live updates and match highlights as RCB take on Delhi Capitals in what promises to be another captivating WPL clash.

Washington Sundar Ruled Out of NZ T20Is, Doubtful for T20 World Cup

Posted on January 16, 2026January 16, 2026 by [email protected]

India have suffered a major setback ahead of the New Zealand T20I series as all-rounder Washington Sundar has been ruled out due to injury. The left-arm spinner picked up the issue during recent domestic action. Forcing the selectors to sideline him from the upcoming T20Is against New Zealand. His absence will be felt in India’s middle-order balance, given his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.

What adds to India’s concern is that Washington Sundar is now doubtful for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The team management is closely monitoring his recovery timeline. But with the global tournament approaching fast, fitness remains a big question mark. Known for his economical bowling in powerplays and calm batting under pressure, Sundar has been a valuable asset in white-ball cricket.

The selectors are expected to consider backup all-rounders for the NZ series. While the medical team will prioritize Sundar’s long-term fitness over a rushed return. His road to the T20 World Cup will depend on rehabilitation progress and match readiness in the coming weeks.

🏏 Alyssa Healy to Retire from All Forms of Cricket After India Series

Posted on January 13, 2026 by [email protected]

Australian women’s cricket legend Alyssa Healy has announced that she will retire from all forms of international cricket following the upcoming series against India. Bringing the curtain down on one of the most influential careers in the history of the women’s game. The India series will mark Healy’s final appearance in Australian colours, closing an era defined by leadership, innovation, and match-winning brilliance.

Healy, who has played a key role in Australia’s supremacy of women’s cricket for more than ten years. Affirmed that the choice was made. After careful consideration of her physical demands, long-term goals, and the desire to step aside at a time. When the team is well placed for the future. Known for redefining the role of a wicketkeeper-batter. Healy changed the way the game is played with her aggressive strokeplay at the top of the order and fearless approach in big matches.

Alyssa Healy

Healy has been a member of several World Cup-winning teams since making her debut for her country in 2010. She has made significant contributions in finals and high-stress matches. She is regarded as one of the best players the sport has ever produced thanks to her record-breaking achievements in ODIs and T20Is. As well as her deft glovework behind the posts.

As captain and senior leader, Healy also played a crucial role in mentoring the next generation of Australian cricketers. Teammates and coaches have frequently praised her competitive spirit, tactical awareness, and ability to lift the team during challenging moments. Her presence on the field has been synonymous with Australia’s winning culture.

The upcoming India series will therefore carry special significance, offering fans a final opportunity to witness Healy’s trademark energy and passion. Cricket Australia is expected to honour her contributions during the series. While tributes from across the global cricketing community continue to pour in.

As Alyssa Healy prepares to step away from the international stage. Her legacy as a trailblazer, leader, and champion of women’s cricket is firmly secured. The game moves forward, but her influence will remain for generations to come.

Injured Rishabh Pant Ruled Out of New Zealand ODIs

Posted on January 12, 2026 by [email protected]

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand due to injury. Delivering a setback to Team India ahead of the crucial white-ball fixtures. Pant sustained the injury during training, and the medical team has advised rest to ensure a full recovery and avoid any long-term complications.

Rishabh Pant’s absence will be felt both behind the stumps and in the middle order. Where his aggressive batting often changes the momentum of matches. Known for his fearless approach and ability to counterattack. Pant has been a key match-winner for India in limited-overs cricket. The team management is expected to announce a replacement soon. With other wicketkeeper-batters in the squad likely to get an opportunity.

The Indian team will now look to regroup and adjust their combination as they prepare to face a strong New Zealand side. While Rishabh Pant focuses on rehabilitation. Fans will hope for his speedy recovery and return to action in upcoming international tournaments.

Tilak Varma Ruled Out of First Three T20Is Against New Zealand

Posted on January 9, 2026 by [email protected]

India have suffered an early setback ahead of the T20I series against New Zealand as Tilak Varma has been ruled out of the first three matches due to injury concerns. The young left-handed batter. Who has quickly established himself as a dependable middle-order option in the shortest format. Will miss the opening leg of the series, forcing the team management to rethink their combination.

Tilak Varma sustained the issue during recent training sessions, and the medical team has advised rest as a precautionary measure. While the injury is not considered serious, selectors and team management are keen to avoid any long-term risk. Especially with a packed international calendar and major tournaments ahead.

Since making his debut, Tilak Varma has impressed with his calm temperament. Ability to rotate strike, and fearless stroke play against both pace and spin. His absence will be felt, particularly in the middle overs. Where he often stabilizes the innings. While maintaining a healthy scoring rate. The team will now look at alternative options to fill the void. Giving fringe players an opportunity to showcase their skills on the international stage.

India’s batting depth remains strong, and the think tank is expected to experiment with combinations in the first three T20Is. This could open doors for youngsters waiting on the sidelines or prompt a reshuffle in the batting order to maintain balance. The series against New Zealand is seen as an important testing ground as India continue to build towards future global events.

Tilak Varma’s recovery will be closely monitored, and he could return later in the series. If he regains full fitness in time. Fans will be hoping for a swift comeback, as the dynamic batter has become an exciting prospect in India’s T20 setup.

Shaheen Shah Afridi set to recover from knee injury in time for T20 World Cup

Posted on January 8, 2026 by [email protected]

Pakistan cricket fans can breathe a sigh of relief as fast-bowling star Shaheen Shah Afridi is on track to recover from his knee injury ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup. The left-arm pacer, who has been a key figure in Pakistan’s bowling attack across formats. Is responding well to rehabilitation and is expected to regain full fitness before the marquee tournament.

Afridi sustained the knee injury during international action earlier this season. Raising concerns about his availability for the World Cup. However, team sources and medical updates suggest that the injury is not serious and is being carefully managed by the Pakistan Cricket Board’s medical team. His recovery plan includes controlled training, fitness assessments, and a gradual return to competitive cricket to avoid any setbacks.

The 24-year-old’s presence is crucial for Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign. Known for his ability to strike early with the new ball and deliver lethal yorkers at the death. Afridi has consistently troubled top batters around the world. His leadership qualities and experience in high-pressure games further add value to the squad.

With the World Cup fast approaching. Shaheen Shah Afridi is expected to return to match fitness through selected games and training camps. If his recovery continues as planned, Pakistan will head into the tournament with their pace spearhead fully fit and firing—boosting their chances against the world’s best teams.

Jacob Duffy Earns Maiden T20 World Cup Selection

Posted on January 7, 2026 by [email protected]

New Zealand fast bowler Jacob Duffy has achieved a major career milestone after earning his maiden selection for the ICC T20 World Cup squad. The right-arm seamer’s inclusion comes on the back of consistent performances in international T20s and domestic leagues. Where his ability to swing the new ball and deliver disciplined spells at the death impressed the selectors.

Duffy has steadily built his reputation as a reliable white-ball bowler, combining accuracy with smart variations. His recent outings showcased not only his wicket-taking skills in the powerplay. But also his calm temperament under pressure—qualities that are crucial in high-stakes World Cup matches.

The New Zealand selection panel highlighted Duffy’s adaptability across conditions as a key reason for his call-up. With his proven success on both batting-friendly and bowler-friendly surfaces, Duffy is expected to add depth and balance to the Kiwi pace attack alongside experienced campaigners.

For Jacob Duffy, this selection marks a reward for perseverance and consistent growth. As New Zealand eyes another strong T20 World Cup campaign. All eyes will be on the debutant to seize the opportunity and make an impact on the global stage.

SEC Decimate Capitals to Reclaim Top Spot

Posted on January 6, 2026 by [email protected]

The Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC) delivered a commanding performance to decimate the and reclaim the top spot on the points table with authority. In a match that showcased their all-round dominance. SEC outplayed their opponents in every department. Underlining why they remain one of the most formidable sides in the tournament.

Batting first/while chasing (as the situation demanded), SEC set the tone early with aggressive intent at the top of the order. Their batters displayed a perfect blend of power and composure. Punishing loose deliveries and keeping the scoreboard ticking with smart rotation of strike. The middle order ensured momentum was not lost, accelerating at the right moments to either post a daunting total or overhaul the target with ease.

SEC

The Capitals struggled to find answers against SEC’s disciplined bowling attack. The pacers struck early, removing key batters and applying relentless pressure during the powerplay. The spinners then tightened the screws in the middle overs, varying their pace and lines to restrict scoring opportunities. Regular wickets meant the Capitals were never able to build a meaningful partnership, and the chase/defense soon slipped out of their control.

SEC’s fielding effort further reflected their intent. Sharp catching, quick reflexes inside the ring, and athletic stops in the deep ensured that the Capitals were denied easy runs. This collective intensity highlighted the team’s hunger to stay at the top of the table.

With this emphatic victory, Sunrisers Eastern Cape not only reclaimed the number one position. But also sent a strong message to the rest of the competition. Their balanced squad, consistent performances, and tactical clarity make them serious title contenders as the tournament progresses. For the Capitals, the defeat serves as a reminder of the fine margins at this level and the need to regroup quickly for the challenges ahead.

As the league moves into a crucial phase, SEC’s ruthless display has set the benchmark. If they continue to perform with this level of confidence and cohesion. Reclaiming the top spot may just be a stepping stone toward an even bigger prize.

Shreyas Iyer Named Mumbai Captain for Vijay Hazare Trophy

Posted on January 5, 2026January 5, 2026 by [email protected]

Indian batter Shreyas Iyer has been officially appointed as the captain of the Mumbai cricket team for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy. Marking a significant leadership move by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA). The decision underlines Iyer’s growing stature as a leader across formats and his importance in Mumbai’s domestic setup.

Shreyas Iyer, who has previously captained India in white-ball cricket and led IPL sides with confidence. Brings experience, calmness, and tactical sharpness to the Mumbai squad. His appointment comes at a crucial time as Mumbai aim to reclaim dominance in India’s premier domestic one-day tournament. Known for his composed batting in the middle order and ability to anchor innings under pressure. Iyer is expected to lead from the front both as a batter and as a captain.

Shreyas Iyer

Mumbai, one of the most successful teams in Indian domestic cricket history, will look to combine youthful talent with seasoned campaigners under Iyer’s leadership. His familiarity with domestic conditions, coupled with international exposure. Is expected to help Mumbai navigate high-pressure matches during the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Selectors believe Iyer’s leadership qualities and tactical awareness will play a key role in maximizing the team’s performance.

The appointment also boosts Iyer’s credentials as a long-term leadership option for India in limited-overs formats. His ability to manage players, rotate bowlers effectively, and make smart on-field decisions has already earned praise in the past. With several young players in the Mumbai squad. Iyer’s mentorship is expected to play a vital role in shaping the next generation of domestic stars.

Mumbai fans will be eager to see how Iyer balances his personal form with leadership responsibilities. A strong showing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy could further cement his position as one of India’s most reliable middle-order batters while strengthening Mumbai’s title ambitions.

As the tournament approaches, all eyes will be on Shreyas Iyer and his Mumbai side as they look to make a deep run and add another prestigious trophy to their rich legacy.

Tristan Stubbs Misses Out on South Africa’s T20 World Cup Squad

Posted on January 3, 2026 by [email protected]

South Africa’s squad announcement for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has sparked discussion. After Tristan Stubbs was left out of the final selection. Despite being regarded as one of the most exciting young batters in South African cricket. Stubbs failed to secure a place in the Proteas’ World Cup plans.

The selectors opted for a balanced squad, prioritising experience, role clarity, and recent international performances. While Stubbs has impressed in franchise cricket around the world with his power-hitting ability and adaptability in the middle order. His limited opportunities and inconsistency at the international level appear to have worked against him.

South Africa’s think tank has leaned towards proven campaigners and players who fit specific tactical roles. Especially considering the conditions expected at the T20 World Cup. With a strong emphasis on all-round options, death bowling specialists, and experienced finishers, the competition for batting slots was intense. As a result, Stubbs narrowly missed out despite his undeniable potential.

Cricket analysts believe this omission could serve as motivation for the young batter to refine his game further and cement his place in future international squads. At just 24, Stubbs has time on his side and remains a key part of South Africa’s long-term plans, particularly in white-ball formats.

For now, the focus shifts to the selected squad as South Africa aims to finally break their T20 World Cup drought. Meanwhile, Tristan Stubbs will look to make a strong statement through upcoming domestic and franchise performances, keeping himself firmly in contention for future national call-ups.

Month: January 2026