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Matthew Forde will miss Pakistan’s ODIs due to a dislocated shoulder.

Posted on August 8, 2025 by [email protected]

Matthew Forde, a seamer for the West Indies, will not be playing in the three-match ODI series against Pakistan starting on Friday in Tarouba. He got hurt during a training session on Wednesday. When he tried to catch the ball and dislocated his shoulder.

Matthew Forde has been replaced in the squad by Johann Layne. A seam-bowling all-rounder from the West Indies academy.

Ian Bishop, who is part of the coaching staff, described Layne as “rangy, tall, and intelligent.” He was one of the seamen who made a good impression on Bishop.

The West Indies’ ODI team includes Jediah Blades, Shamar Joseph, Romario Shepherd, and Jayden Seales as their fast bowlers.

Gudakesh Motie is their main wrist spinner. Alzarri Joseph has been rested for this series. The team also loses out on Forde’s batting ability. As he broke the ODI record for the fastest fifty, scoring. It in just 16 balls against Ireland in May.

The West Indies is aiming to win their fourth consecutive ODI series. After losing the T20I series to Pakistan 2-1 in Lauderhill.

The tour is now moving to Trinidad and Tobago. They are playing in just their fifth ODI series. Since the beginning of 2023 and have already beaten Bangladesh 3-0 and England twice, 2-1 each time.

In recent years, the West Indies has had a tough time with the 50-over format, losing both ICC ODI tournaments.

Their current ranking is tenth, making qualification for the 2027 ODI World Cup uncertain. To get automatic qualification, they need to be in the top nine, just one spot above where they are now. They would greatly benefit from a victory versus Pakistan. Who are ranked six spots higher.

David Wiese Named Captain of Saint Lucia Kings for CPL 2025 🏏🏆

Posted on August 7, 2025 by [email protected]

In a significant move ahead of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) 2025 season, David Wiese has been officially appointed as the captain of the Saint Lucia Kings. The franchise announced this leadership change earlier today, generating excitement among fans and pundits alike. Wiese, the seasoned all-rounder from Namibia, is set to bring his vast T20 experience and tactical acumen to the forefront as the team gears up for another competitive season.

🔹 A Proven T20 Veteran

Wiese is no stranger to high-pressure situations in franchise cricket. With over a decade of T20 experience spanning leagues such as the IPL, PSL, BBL, and international appearances for both South Africa and Namibia, the 39-year-old has built a reputation for being a reliable match-winner. His ability to contribute with both bat and ball, coupled with his on-field leadership skills, makes him a natural fit for the captaincy role.

In CPL seasons past, Wiese has delivered consistent performances, especially with his death bowling and powerful late-order hitting. His familiarity with Caribbean pitches and understanding of the league’s demands will be invaluable to the Kings’ campaign in 2025.

🔹 Leadership Goals and Team Outlook

Upon accepting the role, Wiese expressed his excitement and commitment to leading the team:

“It’s a huge honour to captain a team with such passionate fans and talented players. I look forward to working with the coaching staff and teammates to build a winning culture. We’re aiming for the title this year.”

The Saint Lucia Kings have come close in previous editions but are yet to secure their maiden CPL title. With Wiese at the helm, the franchise is aiming to blend experience with emerging talent, creating a balanced and aggressive side that can go all the way.

🔹 Support from Management

The team management, including head coach Andy Flower, has expressed full confidence in Wiese’s appointment. In a statement, Flower noted:

“David brings a calm, composed approach, combined with fierce competitiveness. His leadership in global T20 leagues has been exceptional. We believe he can take this group to the next level.”

🔹 Squad Shaping Up

The 2025 squad of Saint Lucia Kings is already shaping up to be a formidable unit, with key retentions and potential new signings expected to strengthen the side further. Wiese will play a central role in mentoring young Caribbean talents while also leading from the front during crunch moments.

🔹 Fan Expectations Rising

The appointment of Wiese has already created a buzz among the Saint Lucia Kings fanbase. Supporters are hopeful that his leadership will finally help the team lift the coveted CPL trophy. Social media is abuzz with messages of support and excitement as the countdown to CPL 2025 begins.

With David Wiese now leading the charge, Saint Lucia Kings are poised for an exciting season ahead. All eyes will be on the new skipper as he attempts to guide the team to CPL glory.

Shubman Gill Breaks Sunil Gavaskar’s Record with 754 Runs as Captain in Test Series

Posted on August 5, 2025 by [email protected]

In a remarkable show of skill, consistency, and leadership. Shubman Gill has etched his name into Indian cricket history by scoring 754 runs in a single Test series. Surpassing the long-standing record of 732 runs set by the legendary Sunil Gavaskar. This achievement not only highlights Gill’s prowess with the bat. But also marks a significant milestone as he now holds the record for the most runs by an Indian in a Test series as captain.

Gill, who was appointed as captain for the series following a phase of transition in Indian cricket, embraced the responsibility with remarkable maturity. His elegant strokeplay, tactical acumen, and relentless hunger for runs were on display throughout the series. From gritty knocks on difficult pitches to fluent centuries in pressure situations. Gill’s batting performance was a masterclass in adapting to conditions and taking on the opposition.

The record-breaking feat came during India’s recent Test series. Which saw them face a formidable opponent in a tightly contested battle. Gill opened the innings in each match and demonstrated his trademark composure and aggression. His standout innings included a scintillating double century in the second Test and back-to-back centuries in the fourth and fifth Tests. Performances that were pivotal in turning the tide of the series in India’s favor.

What makes this achievement even more special is the company Gill now shares in the record books. Sunil Gavaskar’s record of 732 runs in the 1971 series against the West Indies had stood tall for over five decades. Gavaskar’s dominance during that era laid the foundation for Indian batting legacy. Now, Gill has carried that baton forward in the modern era.

Cricket experts and fans alike have lauded Gill’s incredible feat. Former cricketers praised his technical finesse, temperament, and ability to lead from the front. His calm demeanor under pressure and ability to rotate strike while accelerating. When needed were the hallmarks of his batting throughout the series.

Off the field, Gill’s leadership has also drawn applause. He showed great tactical awareness, backed his bowlers wisely, and made bold decisions that often paid off. His captaincy was defined by a calm confidence and a willingness to take calculated risks — traits that endeared him to teammates and supporters.

With this historic performance, Shubman Gill has not only set a new benchmark for Indian captains in Test cricket. But has also solidified his place among the brightest stars in world cricket today. At just 26, Gill’s hunger for excellence, adaptability across formats, and mental fortitude suggest that this is just the beginning of a glittering career.

As Indian cricket continues to evolve, Gill’s emergence as a dependable leader and a world-class batter bodes well for the team’s future particularly in the longest and most challenging format of the game.

Suryakumar Begins NCA Rehab After Surgery, Eyes Asia Cup Return

Posted on August 4, 2025 by [email protected]

India’s dynamic T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has officially checked into the National Cricket Academy’s Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. To commence a structured rehabilitation programme after undergoing successful sports hernia surgery in Munich. The objective: to return to full fitness in time to lead India in the Asia Cup 2025.

🩺 Suryakumar Surgery & Recovery Timeline

On June 26, 2025, the 34-year-old batter underwent surgery in Munich. Germany, to address a sports hernia in his lower right abdomen—his third operation in as many years following an ankle procedure in 2023 and a prior hernia in early 2024. Post-operation, Suryakumar expressed optimism, posting on social media:

“Underwent surgery for a sports hernia in the lower right abdomen. Grateful to share that after a smooth surgery, I’m already on the road to recovery. Can’t wait to be back.”

🔄 Rehab at NCA & Asia Cup Ambitions

Arriving at the Bengaluru CoE in early August 2025, Suryakumar is now undergoing comprehensive prep work. Including physiotherapy, strength conditioning, and fitness testing. All part of a tailored plan to ensure peak readiness for the Asia Cup. Scheduled in the UAE from September 9 to 28.

Due to his ongoing rehabilitation, selectors excluded him from the West Zone squad for the Duleep Trophy. Which begins in late August under Shardul Thakur’s leadership. Officials confirm this decision was coordinated after Suryakumar communicated his need for focused recovery.

🌟 Career Momentum & Form

Suryakumar’s rehabilitation follows a standout campaign in IPL 2025, where as captain of Mumbai Indians, he amassed 717 runs in 16 innings, averaging over 65 with a strike rate exceeding 167—earning the Most Valuable Player award and setting a new benchmark for MI’s single-season run tally.

Since assuming India’s T20I captaincy after the 2024 World Cup. He has steered a potent lineup and redefined India’s limited-overs strategy, combining creativity with aggressive leadership.

✅ Fitness Outlook & Team Strategy

Team insiders confirm that BCCI and CoE medical staff are optimistic about his recovery trajectory, anticipating full match fitness well ahead of Asia Cup kick off. The decision to limit his exposure in domestic cricket is calculated to ensure he leads from the front in the continental tournament.

Fellow India player Shreyas Iyer also visited CoE last week for routine fitness evaluations. But remains available for West Zone in the Duleep Trophy unless drafted late into the Asia Cup squad.

📊 What It Means for India’s Asia Cup Campaign

Should Suryakumar successfully complete his rehab, his return as captain would inject confidence and firepower into India’s T20 setup. Given his reputation for completing matches under duress and changing India’s batting philosophy. His involvement could be crucial to the country’s hopes of winning the crown in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

📅 Key Dates at a Glance

Milestone	Date
Hernia surgery in Munich	June 26, 2025
Check in at NCA CoE (Bengaluru)	Early August 2025
Duleep Trophy (West Zone start)	Late August 2025
Asia Cup 2025 (UAE)	September 9–28, 2025

India’s management and fans alike will keenly monitor Suryakumar’s rehab progress over the coming weeks. If fit, his return may well be the turning point in India’s strategy in UAE. His final sprint to Asia Cup glory.

🚨 Shardul Thakur to Lead West Zone in 2025 Duleep Trophy 🏏

Posted on August 1, 2025 by [email protected]

In a new step for developing leadership. Experienced fast bowler Shardul Thakur has been named captain of the West Zone team for the 2025 Duleep Trophy, Which starts on August 28.

This decision was made by the zonal selectors on Thursday. It sets the stage for a tough and exciting tournament that kicks off the 2025–26 domestic season in India.

Fans often call Thakur “Lord Shardul” because he performs well in tough situations. He has played in all formats for India and his leadership will bring a mix of calm and energy to the West Zone squad.

West Zone has a mix of young talent and experienced players.

Some key names in the squad are:

Yashasvi Jaiswal – The left-handed batter is known for his exciting style and is making a name for himself.
Shreyas Iyer – He’s back after an injury and wants to prove himself for a place in the national team.
Sarfaraz Khan – A top run-scorer in domestic cricket, he adds strength in the middle order.
Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shams Mulani, and Tushar Deshpande also make up a solid group.

Notably, older players like Ajinkya Rahane and Cheteshwar Pujara were left out.

This might be a sign that the team is focusing more on younger players. As both have had trouble staying in the national setup. Shardul Thakur’s captaincy is real and meaningful.

He is known for his hard work and fight on the field. His strong performances in Tests. Especially in Australia and England, have made him a trusted player. In domestic cricket, his bold approach and smart thinking have worked well.

His leadership will help players like Ashwin Kotian, Dharmendra Jadeja, and Shaunak Nagwaswala as they try to move up in the ranks. The Duleep Trophy is now more than just a local competition.

It’s a key event for players aiming to play red-ball cricket for India. Strong showings here often lead to selection in India A or even the senior team. The zonal format, which returned last season. Gives players a chance to play high-level cricket and represent their regions.

West Zone, the most successful team in Duleep Trophy. History with 19 titles, Aims to add another to their list under Thakur’s leadership.

With the Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy, and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy coming next. The Duleep Trophy is the first opportunity for players to get started and build momentum.

Winning the Duleep Trophy would be a big boost for Thakur and his team. It would show the strength of West Zone cricket.

Abhishek Sharma replaces Head to take the No. 1 spot as a T20I batsman.

Posted on July 31, 2025July 31, 2025 by [email protected]

Abhishek Sharma of India overtook Travis Head, his opening partner for Sunrisers Hyderabad, to take the top spot in the T20I batting rankings.

Travis Head had maintained his top spot since defeating Suryakumar Yadav in June of last year, but after missing Australia’s five-match series in the West Indies and playing his last T20I in September 2024, he dropped a spot as Abhishek Sharma became the third Indian to top the T20I batting charts, behind Virat Kohli and Suryakumar.

Abhishek last played for India during the five-match Twenty20 International series against England in February. In the series’ last game, he scored 135 runs off of 54 balls.

Josh Inglis rose six spots to ninth in the rankings after scoring 172 runs in the five games against the West Indies, finishing as the series’ third-highest run scorer. Despite ranking second on the series’ run rankings after a century, Shai Hope remained in tenth place.

Cameron Green was the series’ greatest mover, leaping 64 spots to No. 24, while Tim David went up 12 spaces to 18th after scoring Australia’s quickest T20I century and Brandon King gained nine slots.

Nathan Ellis, a fast bowler, moved up nine ranks to go joint-eighth among the bowlers.

India’s Ravindra Jadeja, who has been playing well in the current series between the two countries, is still at the top of the Test all-rounders’ ratings, while England skipper Ben Stokes moved up three spots to No. 3 after his century and five-wicket haul at Old Trafford.

After recording his first Test century in Manchester, Washington Sundar rose eight spots to share thirteenth place with a career-high 193 ranking points.

Ben Stokes will not play in the final Test match against India.

Posted on July 30, 2025July 30, 2025 by [email protected]

Ben Stokes, the captain of England and their best all-round player, will not play in the final Test match against India due to a shoulder injury. In the third and fourth Test matches of this series, the in-form player’s all-around performance earned him Player of the Match. Ollie Pope will captain the team in place of him when they play India at The Oval in London on Thursday, July 31.

The pacers Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse, and spinner Liam Dawson were also left off of the eleven that drew with India in Manchester. In addition to Josh Tongue, Jamie Overton, and Gus Atkinson, Jacob Bethell has been added to the team and is slated to start at number six.

England’s XI:

Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope (c), Zak Crawley, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Jacob Bethell, Jamie Smith (wk), Chris Woakes, Gus Atkinson, Jamie Overton, Josh Tongue

When India batted for 143 overs over five sessions in the final innings to draw the Test, Ben Stokes had a lengthy bowling stint. During the session, Stokes was clearly gripping his right shoulder and had bowled 35 overs in both innings.

The depth of Stokes’ injuries and the challenging decision-making process were disclosed. During the news conference held on the eve of the fifth Test.

“I don’t know how to phrase it; therefore, I can’t state that I have a good rip in one of my muscles. We took as much time as possible to decide on that. When you discover what you’ve done, there is undoubtedly some emotion involved. To give myself every chance, I came down here this morning. As soon as we received the scan findings. Bowling was obviously ruled out for the sake of playing as a hitter.

Ben Stokes

However, I believe that in order to really understand the decision we made. You need to spend that time talking with the medical staff and Baz [Brendon McCullum]. Before spending nearly twenty minutes alone outside in the middle of the morning. Yes, it’s one of those situations where you have to balance the risks and rewards. The risk was simply too great to cause any more harm than what has already been done. “With an injury like this, I wouldn’t expect to put anyone else, any of my other players, at risk,” Stokes added.

Stokes recognized that long-term fitness must take precedence above immediate rewards, even if he was a competitive person. “My goal when I’m on the pitch is to win. I give it my all, all within my power. In a game, I believe there comes a point at which I must set aside all of my emotions, and I will. It’s because I value this team, playing for England, and winning above all else. But I couldn’t have done anything at all earlier. As a professional athlete, injuries are inevitable, and there is nothing I can do about it.

Now that the Ashes series is starting in November. Ben Stokes is going to focus on getting well.

I must begin my recovery immediately and, of course, concentrate on our upcoming winter plans. It’s clear that I’m disappointed. But I simply needed a little more time to decide than I usually give such matters. We can choose from a very good and powerful roster to put a side out. There that we believe can win this week, which helps.

The Headingley Test and the match at Lord’s were won by the hosts. Who now lead the series 2-1. Their loss was at Edgbaston.

Sciver-Brunt has taken back the top rank in the ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings.

Posted on July 29, 2025 by [email protected]

Nat Sciver-Brunt, the captain of England, scored 98 runs in the final of the three-match series against India in Durham. Regaining her position at the top of the ICC Women’s ODI Batting Rankings.

In what turned out to be a losing effort, the all-rounder stabilized the batting. When the openers’ early wickets fell, and India won the match by 13 runs and clinched the series 2-1.

Sciver-Brunt took the top spot for the third time in her career after defeating Smriti Mandhana by three points. She had previously held the top spot from June to December 2024 and from July 2023 to April 2024.

Harmanpreet Kaur, the captain of India, moved up 10 spots to 11th place in the batters’ list after her brilliant and game-winning century (102 off 84 balls).

Richa Gosh rose nine spots to 39th position with a career-high rating of 516 points. While her teammate Jemimah Rodrigues rose two spots to 13th.

Other changes in this week’s report include the Ireland vs. Zimbabwe series in Belfast. Which the home team won 2-0.

Following hits of 50 and 67, Player of the Series Orla Prendergast moved up 12 spots to a career-best, joint-22nd position. In addition, she broke into the top 10 of the all-rounders’ list from 13th position last week and moved up 10 spots to 33rd among the bowlers. Reaching a personal-best rating of 447. After taking two wickets for 20 in the opening game.

Sciver-Brunt

Ireland’s players also had some notable improvements. Amy Hunter rose two spots to 28th place in the batters’ list, while skipper Gaby Lewis went up one spot to 17th.

Teammate Modester Mupachiwana has moved up two spots to 53rd place. While Zimbabwe’s skipper, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, has reached a career-high 40th position with rating points of 513 thanks to her 48 and 56 scores.

The second and third games in the three-match T20I series between Ireland and Zimbabwe in Dublin. Where the visitors were once again thoroughly thrashed, are also included in this week’s edition.

Lewis was the series’ top batsman, hitting 154 runs to win Player of the Series. She moved up to a tie for 14th place with Rodrigues of India after scoring 67 and 87 in the second and third innings, respectively.

In the first two games, Cara Murray took three wickets for 19 and three for 17, moving her up three spots to 45th on the bowlers’ list. With seven wickets taken, she was the series’ top wicket-taker at the conclusion.

Jamie Overton’s recall to the England Test squad ahead of the Oval Test

Posted on July 28, 2025 by [email protected]

England have made just one change to their squad for the decisive fifth Test of the 2025 series against India. All‑rounder Jamie Overton has been brought back into the 15‑member side for the match starting July 31 at The Oval. This is Overton’s first involvement in Test cricket since June 2022. When he played his only Test for England at Headingley scoring a magnificent 97 and taking two wickets during that lone appearance.

Standing at 6′5″, the Surrey paceman provides both batting depth and seam‑bowling options, making him an ideal candidate to help balance the injury‑stretched England seam attack. Skipper Ben Stokes had flagged the urgent need for fresh legs after the front‑line bowlers grinded through a gruelling 257 overs in the drawn fourth Test at Old Trafford.

Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and returning pace spearhead Jofra Archer have carried a heavy workload through the series to date. Woakes alone has bowled 167 overs, while Archer just returning from a four‑year break has compiled his heaviest outing ever at Old Trafford with 49.1 overs. Stokes acknowledged that after their exertions, rotation or reinforcement may be essential ahead of the turnaround to Oval.

Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue already in the squad but unused at Old Trafford are the likely competition for places. Atkinson recently returned from hamstring injury with a strong outing in Surrey’s Second XI. While Tongue has taken 11 wickets in the series so far but has struggled with consistency.

The Oval Test

Overton’s inclusion is not only about workload management. As a local Surrey player, he brings familiarity with the conditions at The Oval. He rejoined Surrey permanently in 2021. After a loan spell, and has seen strong county form throughout the current season—and even featured for Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2025.

Selectors have retained all 14 members from the squad that fielded at Old Trafford, with Overton being the single addition to the group. This inclusion reflects the confidence the selectors and Stokes have in his ability to contribute, despite his limited international exposure.

At 31 years old, Overton ticks the box of experience and readiness. His return underscores England’s urgent need for fresh pace support and batting flexibility in the middle to lower order. If he makes the XI, it could be a pivotal chance to shrug off the “one‑cap wonder” tag and establish himself firmly in the Test frame.

With the five‑match series poised at 2‑1 in England’s favour. The Oval Test promises to be the decider. Overton’s role whether as a squad reserve or a playing option will be pivotal in how England manage their pace resources with a tilt at sealing the series on home turf.

Abhishek Nayar: Coaching Evolution at UP Warriorz

Posted on July 25, 2025 by [email protected]

Former India all-rounder and assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has emerged as a key mentor figure within the UP Warriorz setup. During the Women’s Premier League (WPL), particularly in the franchise’s training camps and off-season programs.

Role within UP Warriorz Structure

Although Jon Lewis was officially the head coach for UP Warriorz through the 2025 season. Nayar joined the setup in unofficial yet influential capacities. He participated in the team’s off-season training camp at Bengaluru in 2023. Alongside Jon Lewis, assistant coach Anju Jain, and mentor Lisa Sthalekar. Nayar expressed his excitement at working with budding local talents like Parshavi Chopra, Yashasri and Shweta Sehrawat. While also interacting with veterans like Deepti Sharma and Rajeshwari Gayakwad to understand and enhance their elite-level psychologies.

Within these camps, Nayar focused on player development and fostering coach‑player trust, stating: “You can’t ask a player to open up. Coaches must build that trust … players will trust you when they know you have their best interests in mind.” He emphasized developing clarity of roles and building connections that often get lost during result‑focused competitive seasons.

Coaching Philosophy & Player Development

Abhishek Nayar draws from successful stints in franchise cricket, notably with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the IPL, where he played a pivotal role in rejuvenating veterans like Dinesh Karthik and mentoring rising stars like Shubman Gill. On WPL dynamics, he shared that working with veterans involves challenging long-ingrained thought patterns, while working with youth is more about building their skillsets from scratch. His approach blends technical coaching with mental strengthening, especially in short‑term tournaments like the WPL.

Recent Coaching Appointments & Broader Trajectory

While Nayar was not formally titled head coach of UP Warriorz. He continues to be linked with high-profile coaching roles elsewhere. In early 2025, he joined Kolkata Knight Riders’ coaching staff once again ahead of IPL 2025. Around the same time, the Mumbai Cricket Association appointed him as the mentor for the Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals in the revived T20 Mumbai League scheduled from May 26 to June 8, 2025.

This came shortly after his departure as assistant coach of the Indian men’s cricket team following a disappointing Test tour in Australia, where BCCI terminated his role along with other support staff hired under Gautam Gambhir’s regime.

Implications for UP Warriorz

With Jon Lewis stepping down as head coach after UP Warriorz finished bottom in WPL 2025, the franchise is now in search of a new coach for the 2026 season. Nayar’s visible involvement in player camps and his success in nurturing young talent could position him as a potential candidate to take a more formal role in the franchise. Though no official confirmation has been made.

Summary

Primary head coach through 2023–25: Jon Lewis; Nayar was not officially in that role
Nayar’s actual role: Off‑season mentor and development coach in WPL camps with UP Warriorz, focusing on youth development and mental trust‑building
Current positions: Mentor for Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals in T20 Mumbai League 2025; part of KKR’s IPL‑2025 coaching staff

In conclusion, while Abhishek Nayar is sometimes described as head coach in casual references. His official title with UP Warriorz has been mentor or development coach—working under head coach Jon Lewis—particularly during off-season camps. His expert guidance in player development, both technically and psychologically, has made a significant impact on the squad, and his broader movement in domestic leagues keeps him firmly in the limelight. If UP Warriorz leadership changes ahead of WPL 2026. Nayar’s past contributions may well position him for a formal leadership role. Though nothing has been confirmed publicly at this point.

Author: [email protected]