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

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

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.

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.

Chris Woakes Announces Retirement from International Cricket 🏏

England all-rounder Chris Woakes has officially announced his retirement from international cricket. Bringing the curtains down on a remarkable career that spanned over a decade.

Chris Woakes, known for his swing bowling and reliable lower-order batting, represented England across all three formats and played a pivotal role in some of the team’s most memorable victories. A World Cup winner in 2019, he was often regarded as one of England’s most dependable all-rounders. Delivering consistently with both bat and ball.

During his career, Woakes claimed crucial wickets with the new ball. Excelled in English conditions, and provided depth to the batting order with several match-saving contributions. His calm presence in pressure situations earned him respect from teammates and fans alike.

Reflecting on his decision, Woakes expressed gratitude towards the England & Wales Cricket Board (ECB). His teammates, family, and supporters for standing by him throughout his journey. While stepping away from the international stage. He is expected to continue playing in domestic cricket and franchise leagues around the world.

🏆 Career Highlights

2019 ICC Cricket World Cup Winner – Woakes played a crucial role in England’s historic triumph, particularly in the semi-final against Australia. Where he dismantled the top order with the new ball.

Ashes Performances – His ability to trouble Australian batters in English conditions made him one of the go-to bowlers in Ashes contests.

All-Round Contributions – Beyond his bowling, Woakes often chipped in with handy runs down the order, including a Test century against India at Lord’s.

Hampshire Face Up to Relegation Nightmare After Surrey Defeat

Hampshire now find themselves staring at the real possibility of relegation from Division One of the County Championship following a gutting loss to Surrey.

Collapse in Chase Leaves Them Teetering

In their second innings, chasing 181, Hampshire imploded from 61 for 0 to being all out for 160 — a collapse that sealed their 20-run defeat. On debut for Surrey, leg-spinner Rahul Chahar wreaked havoc, picking up 7 for 45 to rip through the Hampshire lineup.  That spell has left Hampshire’s survival hopes hanging by a thread.

Relegation Scenarios & Dependencies

Hampshire’s fate is now not entirely in their hands. If they lose and Durham avoid defeat to Yorkshire, Hampshire will be relegated.  A draw in the Durham vs Yorkshire match might be enough to condemn Hampshire, depending on the points tally. The bad light that halted play with Hampshire still 33 runs short and one wicket in hand adds another cruel twist to their plight.

Broader Troubles & Penalties

This season has already been tough for Hampshire. Earlier on, they were docked eight points following a pitch rating violation in a match vs Sussex, compounding their troubles in the relegation battle. Moreover, in the past fortnight, the club have lost multiple finals in other competitions. Adding to the sense that things have not gone their way.

R. Ashwin will participate in the ILT20 and BBL.

R Ashwin no longer has to choose between the UAE and Australia. As a replacement to having to decide between the ILT20 and the Big Bash League (BBL), it looks like to be a double dose, or twin assignments. Due to difficulties with scheduling at the end of the year. The experienced spinner would have been forced to choose between the two. But it is quite likely that he will play in both.

One of the best spinners in India has signed up for the ILT20 auction and will probably play in the BBL in Australia as well. Numerous teams have made offers to him, including Tim Paine’s Adelaide Strikers, Ricky Ponting’s Hobart Hurricanes, and both the Sydney teams (Sixers and Thunder). Naturally, he will have to select one of them.

R. Ashwin 

Players who are still participating in Indian tournaments under the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) are not permitted to participate in foreign leagues. But Ashwin, who declared his retirement from the IPL in August, is taking full use of this opportunity. He has finally signed up for the October 1 auction. After a lengthy period of negotiations with the ILT20 organizers. He is anticipated to formally sign with one of the four teams listed above. But he has also been in discussions with a few BBL teams.

Managing the schedule of the back-to-back events will be extremely difficult because some of the tournaments’ fixtures may conflict. While the BBL begins on December 14 and ends on January 25, the ILT20 takes place from December 2 to January 4. Currently, Ashwin will begin with the ILT20 before traveling to Australia for the BBL. Where he will have restricted availability this year.

Since all six teams have finished their direct signings, there was no direct admission into the ILT20 this year. “I signed up to participate in the auction. Ashwin confirmed his participation in the auction. Which is taking place for the first time in the UAE league’s four seasons. Saying, “Hopefully, one of the six franchises will be interested in bidding for me.”

Though there are hints that something may be decided in a few days. Ashwin remained silent over the BBL developments.

Regarding other international leagues, Ashwin is probably going to play in The Hundred in the UK or Major League Cricket (MLC) in the USA. Of all, there is still time to finish those tournament procedures.

Yastika Bhatia will not feature in the World Cup or Australian ODIs.

The Board of Control for Cricket in India announced on Thursday. That Indian wicket-keeper batter Yastika Bhatia will not feature in the 2025 50-over World Cup or the coming three-match ODI series against Australia.

Yastika Bhatia is under observation by the BCCI medical team. After injuring her left knee, While at India’s training camp in Visakhapatnam.

The India A team, which will play in a World Cup warm-up. Will no longer feature Uma Chetry, who was picked as her replacement in both teams.

India’s revised ODI squad against Australia:

Smriti Mandhana (VC), Pratika Rawal, Deepti Sharma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Uma Chetry (wk), Richa Ghosh (wk), Kranti Gaud, Sayali Satghare, Radha Yadav, Sree Charani, Sneh Rana, and Harleen Deol.

Tejal Hasabnis, Prema Rawat, and Priya Mishra are standby players for the ODI series against Australia.

India’s revised squad for ICC Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025:

Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Uma Chetry (wk), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Pratika Rawal, Harleen Deol, Jemimah Rodrigues, Renuka Singh Thakur, Arundhati Reddy, Richa Ghosh (wk), Kranti Gaud, Amanjot Kaur, Radha Yadav, Sree Charani, Sneh Rana and Deepti Sharma

ICC Women’s World Cup standby players are Tejal Hasabnis, Prema Rawat, Priya Mishra, Minnu Mani, and Sayali Satghare.

India A squad updated:

Minnu Mani (c), Dhara Gujjar, Shafali Verma, Tejal Hasabnis, Vrinda Dinesh, Tanushree Sarkar, Tanuja Kanwer, Titas Sadhu, Saima Thakor, Prema Rawat, Priya Mishra, Raghvi Bist, Nandini Kashyap (wk) and Sayali Satghare.

Amit Mishra declares his retirement from the game in all its forms.

At the end of a professional career that lasted more than 20 years, veteran legspinner Amit Mishra announced his retirement from all forms of cricket.

The 42-year-old Amit Mishra finished his final international match in 2017, but he continued to play in both domestic and IPL cricket, most recently for the Lucknow Super Giants in 2024.

He finishes with 156 international wickets from 22 Test matches, 36 ODIs, and 10 T20Is for India. Mishra made his Test debut in Mohali in 2008, taking five wickets against Australia to honor the occasion.

Throughout the IPL, Mishra proved himself as one of the most reliable spin options for all teams. He is one of the competition’s all-time top wicket-takers with 174 in 162 games. With the Delhi Daredevils (2008), Deccan Chargers (2011), and Sunrisers Hyderabad (2013), he also has the exceptional record of being the first bowler to have three IPL hat-tricks.

Mishra cited injuries and a desire to create room for the next generation when he announced his decision. “I am announcing my retirement from cricket today, after 25 years. Cricket has been my first passion, my teacher, and my biggest source of happiness.

There have been countless feelings along the way, including pride, adversity, education, and love. I owe a debt of gratitude to the Haryana Cricket Association, the BCCI, my coaches, support staff, teammates, and above everyone else my supporters, whose encouragement and faith kept me going at every turn.

No Place for Dane van Niekerk in South Africa’s Women’s World Cup Plans

Cricket South Africa (CSA) has announced a strong 15-member squad for the upcoming Women’s Cricket World Cup 2025. But the absence of former captain Dane van Niekerk is the biggest talking point. Despite reversing her retirement earlier this year and participating in the team’s training camp. Van Niekerk has not been included in the final roster. Confirming that her return to international cricket will have to wait.

The squad, unveiled on September 3, 2025, will be led by Laura Wolvaardt, who has grown into one of the most consistent batters in women’s cricket. She will have the support of experienced names such as Marizanne Kapp, Chloé Tryon, Suné Luus, and Ayabonga Khaka. South Africa’s selectors have opted for a blend of experience and youth, signaling their confidence in a unit that has shown steady progress over the past two years.

For van Niekerk, however, the disappointment is clear. The 32-year-old all-rounder had retired from international cricket in March 2023 following a series of fitness-related controversies and selection snubs. At the time, she voiced her frustration with CSA’s strict fitness standards, particularly the much-debated 2 km run requirement. Which had kept her out of contention for major tournaments. But in mid-2025, she made a surprise U-turn, withdrawing her retirement and rejoining the national setup through a training camp in Durban.

Dane van Niekerk

It was believed that her return would provide her a chance to mend fences and regain her standing. At the squad announcement, CSA head coach Mandla Mashimbyi made it clear that van Niekerk was never assured a World Cup spot. She was taken to the camp to refresh herself with the expectations and team dynamic. Although this World Cup is too soon for her, there is yet hope. If she wants to make a full comeback, she knows what she has to do,” Mashimbyi said.

The omission reflects CSA’s desire to look forward with a settled core group. In van Niekerk’s absence, leadership within the squad will rely heavily on Wolvaardt and the senior trio of Kapp, Tryon, and Luus. The balance of the side looks strong, with a mix of batting depth, pace options, and spin resources that can adapt to varying conditions expected in the World Cup.

Van Niekerk’s international record remains highly impressive. With more than 100 ODI caps and a reputation as one of South Africa’s finest all-rounders. She played a pivotal role in putting the Proteas on the global women’s cricket map. Her absence from the World Cup, however, underscores the challenges of regaining form and fitness after stepping away from the international stage.

For now, South Africa will march into the tournament with a confident and well-rounded squad. The exclusion of van Niekerk may be disappointing for fans who hoped to see her experience bolster the side. But the team’s focus is firmly on building momentum and achieving their long-cherished dream of lifting a World Cup trophy.

As for van Niekerk, the message is clear: her international journey isn’t necessarily over. But she must prove her readiness once again to reclaim a place among the world’s elite.

Mitchell Starc announced he will retire from T20Is.

Mitchell Starc wishes to play Test cricket. Particularly as Australia is packed with work from the latter part of 2019 and the 2027 ODI World Cup. Starc debuted in T20I in 2012 and has appeared in 65 matches until now. Mitchell Starc was a member of the Australian team that won the 2021 T20 World Cup. His recent T20I was in 2024, and he retired six months prior to the following T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. He is now ranked second-highest wicket-taker in T20Is for Australia. With his best being 4 wickets for 20 against the West Indies in 2022.

Starc declared, “My primary priority has always been and will remain Test cricket.”.

I’ve enjoyed all the games I’ve played, particularly the 2021 World Cup, not for winning, but for the team and the wonderful experience we shared.

Australia is set to have a lot of Test matches lined up from mid-2026.

These are a home series against Bangladesh, a tour of South Africa, a four-game series against New Zealand, five Tests in India in January 2027, a special match against England at the MCG for its 150th anniversary, and the Ashes series towards the end of 2027.

During October and November 2027, South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia will stage the ODI World Cup, and Australia will be the champions.

Starc feels quitting T20Is is the best decision for his health and being ready to his potential for the 2027 ODI World Cup, the Ashes, and the Indian Tests.

It also provides the bowling unit with time to prepare.

Mitchell Starc was famous for his yorker and new-ball swing.

Though Australia have won 14 of their previous 17 games since Starc last appeared in a T20I, his pace is not easily replaceable as the team heads to the forthcoming World Cup in India and Sri Lanka.

George Bailey commented, “I don’t think we’ll find someone swinging the new ball at 145 kph.”.

A like-for-like substitute may not necessarily be available. He has worked with the new ball and bowled vital overs when it really counted.

So, have we demonstrated the sort of players who can replace him?

Nathan Ellis has been a regular in the T20 side. Ben Dwarshuis is great. Xavier Bartlett and Sean Abbott have also gotten their chance. It could be just a matter of a slight position adjustment.

I believe his record stands for itself.

I’m happiest that he’ll be playing one-day and Test cricket for a long period of time.

When Australia named their most recent T20I squad for the three-match series against New Zealand early last month in October, Starc made the revelation.

Cameron Green can become a returnee to bowling by missing out on the trip to feature for Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield.

Nathan Ellis will be absent when his first child with his wife, Connie, is born.

Matt Short, who was absent from the last two series against the West Indies and South Africa with a side injury, has returned. Mitchell Owen, concussed in Darwin last month, also returns. Marcus Stoinis, who played in the Hundred and was not picked for the last two series. Returns having come to terms with the selectors regarding his availability.

Australia T20I team vs New Zealand:

Mitchell Marsh (captain), Sean Abbott, Xavier Bartlett, Tim David, Ben Dwarshuis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Matt Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Mitchell Owen, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, and Adam Zampa.