Cricket News Archives

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.

Liam Livingstone Stars as ADKR Edge Vipers in Thrilling Finish

Posted on December 17, 2025 by [email protected]

Liam Livingstone produced a match-winning performance as Abu Dhabi Knight Riders (ADKR) clinched a dramatic victory over Desert Vipers in a last-over thriller. Delivering one of the most exciting encounters of the ILT20 season.

Batting first, ADKR were powered by Livingstone’s explosive knock. Which laid the foundation for a competitive total. Walking in at a crucial stage, the England all-rounder showcased his trademark power and composure, mixing aggressive stroke play with smart rotation of strike. His innings not only steadied the ADKR batting unit but also shifted momentum firmly in their favour as he punished loose deliveries and found the boundary with ease.

ADKR posted a challenging score, putting pressure on the Desert Vipers from the outset of the chase. In response, the Vipers started positively and maintained a steady run rate throughout the innings. Their batters kept the contest alive with timely boundaries and sensible partnerships. Setting up a tense finish that had fans on the edge of their seats.

🌟 Livingstone’s Heroics with the Bat

The match came down to the final over, with the Vipers needing just a handful of runs to secure victory. However, ADKR’s bowlers held their nerve under immense pressure. Tight lines, clever variations, and sharp fielding ensured that every run was fiercely contested. Despite a valiant effort from the Vipers, ADKR managed to defend their total, sealing a narrow but memorable win.

Livingstone’s all-round impact and calm presence in crucial moments proved decisive, earning him widespread praise and underlining his value to the Knight Riders setup. The victory gives ADKR a significant boost in the tournament standings and adds momentum to their campaign.

For the Desert Vipers, the loss was heartbreaking, but their performance showed resilience and depth, promising strong outings in the matches ahead. As the ILT20 continues to deliver high-quality cricket and nail-biting finishes. This clash between ADKR and the Vipers will be remembered as one of the standout games of the season.

Result: Abu Dhabi Knight Riders beat Desert Vipers in a thrilling last-over finish
Player of the Match: Liam Livingstone

Due to illness, Axar Patel is ruled out of the remaining SA T20Is.

Posted on December 16, 2025 by [email protected]

The BCCI announced on Monday (December 15) that India all-rounder Axar Patel will not play in the final two Twenty20 Internationals against South Africa. Due to illness, Axar Patel was unable to play in the third Twenty20 International in Dharamsala. The BCCI also disclosed that Axar, along with the rest of the team, will undergo additional evaluation in Lucknow.

Shahbaz Ahmed has been chosen by the selection committee as a like-for-like replacement. The 31-year-old has already participated in five international games for India, most recently in October 2023 during the Asian Games.

Jasprit Bumrah, India’s pace leader, was also missing for the third match. It’s still not known. If the fast bowler would be available for the remaining two games because he had to return home for personal reasons.

India easily won the third Twenty20 International to grab a 2-1 series lead despite their absences. The series finale will take place in Ahmedabad on December 19. With the following match taking place in Lucknow on December 17.

Major Stakes at a Mini-IPL Auction Where Strategy, Youth, and Opportunity Collide

Posted on December 15, 2025 by [email protected]

The excitement of a mini-IPL auction goes far beyond big names and flashy headlines. While mega auctions often steal the spotlight, mini-auctions are where franchises place major strategic stakes—quietly shaping the future of their squads. Every bid reflects calculated risk, long-term planning, and a sharp eye for emerging talent.

Unlike mega auctions, mini-IPL auctions focus on specific team gaps. Franchises enter with clear objectives: replacing injured players, strengthening weak departments, or securing backups for key roles. With limited slots and budgets, decision-making becomes intense. One smart pick can transform a team’s season, while a wrong move can prove costly.

Young domestic players often become the biggest talking point. These auctions provide a golden platform for uncapped Indian talent, where a single performance in domestic cricket can trigger fierce bidding wars. For franchises, investing early in youth means securing future stars at a fraction of the cost. For players, it’s a life-changing moment—overnight recognition, financial security, and the chance to share a dressing room with legends.

Mini-IPL Auction

Overseas players also play a crucial role. Teams look for specialists—death-over bowlers, power hitters, or experienced all-rounders—who can deliver immediate impact. Since overseas slots are limited, franchises must weigh experience against form, availability, and adaptability to Indian conditions. This makes every international bid a high-stakes decision.

Data analytics now drives auction strategies more than ever. Teams analyze strike rates, matchup data, pitch conditions, and injury history before raising a paddle. Scouts and analysts work behind the scenes to ensure that every bid aligns with the team’s broader vision. The mini-auction is no longer about instinct alone—it’s about informed precision.

Financial discipline is another defining factor. With strict salary caps, franchises must balance star power with squad depth. Smart spending at mini-auctions often separates championship contenders from average teams. History shows that some of the IPL’s most influential players were bought at mini-auctions, proving that value picks matter more than price tags.

Ultimately, the mini-IPL auction is a battleground of foresight and nerve. While it may lack the glamour of mega auctions, the stakes are just as high. Every bid tells a story of ambition, belief, and calculated risk. For fans, it’s a reminder that championships aren’t just won on the field—they’re built at the auction table.

Andy Flower Appointed as London Spirit’s New Head Coach for The Hundred

Posted on October 6, 2025 by [email protected]

In a major coaching announcement, Andy Flower has been named the head coach of London Spirit. Bringing his vast experience and tactical brilliance to the franchise ahead of the upcoming season of The Hundred. 🏏🔥

Andy Flower, one of the most respected figures in world cricket. Has previously coached several international and franchise teams with great success, including leading England to multiple historic wins. His appointment is expected to inject fresh energy and strategic depth into the London Spirit setup.

Under Flower’s leadership, the team aims to strengthen its performance, focus on player development, and build a winning culture. Known for his analytical approach and calm demeanor, Flower’s presence is likely to play a pivotal role in shaping London Spirit’s future campaigns.

Fans and cricket pundits are already excited to see how his vast coaching experience in T20 leagues around the world will translate into results in The Hundred 2025 season. The London Spirit management expressed confidence that Flower’s appointment marks the beginning of a new era for the team.

Jadeja, Rahul, and Jurel torment the West Indies for centuries. IND vs WI

Posted on October 3, 2025October 3, 2025 by [email protected]

IND vs WI: KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel, and Ravindra Jadeja all scored hundreds to increase India’s advantage to 286 at the close of the second day of play, effectively burying the West Indies under a mound of runs. For the third time in 2025, India scored three hundred runs in a single innings: at Leeds, Manchester, and now Ahmedabad. At 448/5, India went to the wire.

Perhaps a good example of how difficult it can be for a visiting team with a novice bowling unit to make an impression in India was the first hour of the second morning. After barely perspiring, Rahul and Shubman Gill led India above the first-innings total of the West Indies by drinks. Jayden Seales gave the West Indies one opportunity to humiliate Rahul by eking out an outside edge. However, because the first slip was positioned a little too wide, the ball sailed between him and the goalkeeper. In his essay, Gill, who mentioned his ninth half-century in Test cricket, was in total control.

West Indies changed their strategies during the drinks break. Kharry Pierre, a left-arm spinner who used to spin from around the stumps, changed sides to attempt to take benefit of the footmarks outside the leg stump. In an attempt to stop the easy flow of runs, the line was also helpful. After defending a few deliveries, Rahul performed a smart reverse sweep.

Gill ended up hitting to the first slip when he attempted the similar shot against Chase, who was bowling from round the stumps in the following over. The spinners made good use of the tough spots over the long stretch of play in which the West Indies halted the flow of runs. Rahul finished the session with his 11th Test century and only his second at home.

IND vs WI

India looked to break the scoring drought going into the post-lunch session. Ravindra Jadeja and Jurel continued their attack after Jomel Warrican deceived Rahul into smashing a thrown up delivery to Justin Greaves at extra cover. Jadeja lead Warrican to two sixes over long on in the same over, while Jurel pulled Chase for the game’s opening six over deep square leg. As India’s lead increased, the two hitters were always searching for ways to score.

In an attempt to see reverse swing ruffle feathers, Chase brought back Jayden Seales prior to the new ball being due. At refreshments in the second session. However, Jadeja and Jurel extended India’s advantage to 112. So that was not to be. Chase persisted in using the old ball and his spinners, with the odd ball remaining low and continuously spinning sharply (average turn of 3 degrees compared to 2.4 on Day 1). Despite switching ends, Warrican received the same treatment from Jadeja. Against Warrican, he struck a fourth six over long on to surpass MS Dhoni’s Test sixes total of 79. Rohit Sharma (88), Virender Sehwag (90), and Rishabh Pant (90) are the only ones with more in the format.

In the last session, West Indies were no closer to making an incision. But they were able to dry up the boundaries for a long time. After taking the new ball in the 98th over. In the second half of the last session. Jurel reached his first Test century, demonstrating his ability to cover for Rishabh Pant. Contrary to the flow of play. He struck 15 fours and three sixes in his 210-ball 125 before Kharry Pierre caught him behind. However, Jadeja achieved his three-figure milestone after three overs. He surpassed Rahul to finish the day as India’s second-highest Test scorer in 2025.

Brief scores:

India 448/5 (Dhruv Jurel 125, Ravindra Jadeja 104*, KL Rahul 100, Shubman Gill 50; Roston Chase 2-90) lead West Indies 162 (Justin Greaves 32; Mohammed Siraj 4-40, Jasprit Bumrah 3-42, Kuldeep Yadav 2-25) by 286 runs

Dinesh Karthik has joined Sharjah Warriorz for the DP World ILT20 season.

Posted on September 30, 2025 by [email protected]

The former India batsman-wicketkeeper was introduced as a replacement one day prior to the first player auction for the ILT20.

Dinesh Karthik, a former India batsman and wicketkeeper, has joined Sharjah Warriorz for the forthcoming ILT20 season in the United Arab Emirates. Prior to the league’s first player auction on October 1. Warriorz announced Karthik as a replacement for Sri Lankan batsman and wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis.

While serving as a batting coach and consultant for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), Karthik, 40 will rejoin with the big-hitting Tim David with whom he won the 2025 Indian Premier League at Warriorz.

Karthik released a statement saying, “I am thrilled to be joining the Sharjah Warriorz team for the DP World ILT20 tournament.” I’m glad to be here, and I know they’re a young team hoping to accomplish some unique things. One of those famous venue. Where one usually desires to play is Sharjah. Being a part of the Sharjah Warriorz franchise is an absolute dream come true.

Dinesh Karthik

JP Duminy, the head coach of the Warriorz, welcomed Karthik onto the team. When it comes to T20 cricket, Dinesh Karthik is among the most seasoned players and has a really creative mind. I’m happy to have him on our side, Duminy added. He has demonstrated his batting prowess to the entire world, and his explosive style, lively demeanor, and wealth of knowledge will undoubtedly help the younger players throughout the competition. I’m excited to collaborate with him in-depth.

Karthik will be playing in franchise cricket for the fourth time outside of the IPL. He previously played for the Paarl Royals in the 2025 SA20, the Southern Superstars in the 2024 Legends League, and the Bangla Tigers in the 2024 Abu Dhabi T10. In June 2024, Karthik retired from Indian and international cricket to venture into the world franchise circuit.

Karthik has many years of T20 experience; in 412 games thus far. He has scored 7537 runs with a strike rate of 136.66 and an average of 27.01. He participated in the IPL for six clubs. Including the top-seeded Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). He was also one of the IPL’s fittest players, missing just two games in 17 seasons.

In the upcoming ILT20 season, Karthik might play either with or against his old teammate from Tamil Nadu and India, R Ashwin. Ashwin, the only player with a base price in six figures, has the highest base price going into the ILT20 auction. Piyush Chawla, a former legspinner for India. is also on the shortlist for the auction, with a starting price of $40,000.

Mendis has pulled out, as has all-rounder Dasun Shanaka. Who was previously kept by the reigning champions Dubai Capitals, as the LPL 2025 clashes with the ILT20.

Category: Cricket News