Kagiso Rabada will not play in the Australia ODIs.

Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada will not play for South Africa in the ODI series against Australia. Which begins on August 19. The pacer is not playing because his right ankle is injured. According to reports, the 30-year-old had a scan on Monday, August 18, which verified the severity of the damage.

According to Cricket South Africa, he will now stay in Australia and get rehabilitation care under the guidance of the medical experts of the national team.

South Africa has selected the pace trio of Wiaan Mulder, Nandre Burger, and Lungi Ngidi for the opening match in Cairns. The next two games will take place in McKay on August 22 and 24.

Scott Boland Gears Up to Tackle Bazball Head-On in Home Ashes Series

Veteran Australian seamer Scott Boland is quietly building confidence as Australia prepares to face England’s aggressive Bazball strategy in the upcoming Ashes series, set to begin in Perth on November 21. Mix of experience, tactical awareness, and home conditions could make him a key part of Australia’s success.

Learning from the Past

Reflecting on his 2023 stint in England, Boland admits it was a tough assignment. Despite bowling well, the wickets weren’t there for him. “I’m a better bowler than I was back then,” he said recently, acknowledging personal growth and readiness to face high-octane opposition in familiar conditions.

Fans on Reddit agree his home form speaks volumes:

“Scott Boland is literally unplayable with his ability to seam it both ways… The only challenge he has… will be Bazball in Aus”

Ace Home Conditions

Boland emphasized that Australia’s typically bowler-friendly wickets will neutralize Bazball’s emphasis on aggressive run-scoring. “If the wickets stay similar to what they’ve been… we’re going to be in the game all the time,” he said, exuding quiet confidence about the home advantage.

His record on Australian pitches marked by seam, swing, and bounce sets him apart from tourists more accustomed to flat decks.

Recent Form and Performance

Boland’s recent Tests confirm he’s far from a part-timer. In the 2025 series against India, he excelled taking 4/31 in the first innings and 6/45 in the second at Sydney, claiming a ten-wicket haul and Man of the Match honors. His presence played a pivotal role in Australia securing the Border–Gavaskar Trophy.

Reacting on Reddit, fans were effusive:

“Essentially a back up to an already awesome pace attack and he comes in and takes 10/76… Unreal, such a luxury to have… like him available”

Strategic Value Against Bazball

Australia’s other pace stalwarts Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, and Josh Hazlewood remain selectors’ first preference. Yet, Boland offers critical variety: home-honed swing, impeccable line and length, and relentless discipline.

As Nathan Lyon noted recently, England has tweaked their Bazball approach to be less reckless and more results-driven a shift Australia welcomes and is studying closely. With Boland, a weapon against an evolving strategy, Australia gains strategic depth starting at Perth.

Looking Ahead

Boland’s readiness, combined with Australian conditions, places him in a promising position for selection and impact. If England bring their signature aggression, Boland could emerge as a key disruptor turning intent into wickets.

Key Points at a Glance:

Factor

Insight

Past Bazball Experience Bowled well in England but lacked luck; better prepared now
Home Advantage Skilled movement in seam-friendly Aussie conditions
Recent Form Took 10 wickets in Sydney vs India; strong Test performance
Strategic Role Provides consistency and discipline against aggressive batting
Selectors’ Pick Likely in squad for his adaptability and impactful variety

 

Shubman Gill Poised for Vice-Captaincy Role in Asia Cup 2025

Shubman Gill is reportedly being considered for a key leadership position in the upcoming Asia Cup. T20 competition following an outstanding spell as India’s Test captain. Under Suryakumar Yadav’s guidance. The Test captain is expected to take the role of vice-captain as expectations rise.

Media outlets are taking notice of Gill’s possible selection as vice captain. India’s cricket body (BCCI) is reportedly determined to reinstate him as Suryakumar Yadav’s deputy for the 2025 Asia Cup. According to RevSportz sources. Which is scheduled for September 9–28 in the United Arab Emirates. The current deputy, Axar Patel, is probably going to resign.

The BCCI’s increasing faith in Gill’s leadership skills is reflected in this change in leadership. His leadership abilities were greatly enhanced by his dominant performance during the England tour, which included an incredible 754 runs in 10 Test innings.

In addition, Shubman Gill’s return to the T20I lineup signifies the conclusion of an extended absence. In July 2024, he played against Sri Lanka in the format for the final time. Given the upcoming Asia Cup, his explosive form is crucial. particularly in the 2025 Indian Premier League. When he scored 650 runs in 15 games, ranking second among the Gujarat Titans’ top scorers. He is a powerful inclusion.

As the Asia Cup begins, selectors are eager to strengthen India’s leadership structure before the hectic T20 schedule begins. Preparation preparations for the 2026 T20 World Cup. A crucial first step in preparing Gill for future all-format captaincy is the appointment of Gill as vice-captain.

Beyond debate about leadership, Gill’s changing role indicates a change in Team India’s strategy. He is already leading the Test team,. This move may indicate that he may eventually lead all formats. The shift appears more likely when older players like Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma retire or step down.

Gill’s leadership at home keeps him relevant. Additionally, he was just selected the North Zone’s captain for the Duleep Trophy. His qualifications are strengthened by this domestic leadership. Which also keeps him in the forefront of national selection judgments.

** Key Highlights: **

  • Shubman Gill is expected to be named vice-captain of India’s T20I team for Asia Cup 2025. Deputizing for Suryakumar Yadav.
  • His stellar performance as Test captain. Especially on the England tour, Reinforced his leadership credentials.
  • Gill is making a strong T20I comeback after a year, backed by impressive IPL form.
  • This move is part of a broader BCCI strategy to groom him as a future all-format captain. With current leaders transitioning out.
  • His leadership continues to shine through in domestic cricket as well. Having been appointed captain of the North Zone team in the Duleep Trophy.

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

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 🏏🏆

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

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

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.

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

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.

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

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

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.