Pakistan made history by becoming the first team to sweep South Africa 3-0 in an ODI series in South Africa. Saim Ayub smashed his second century of the series; he scored 101 runs. Ayub joined the ranks of Virat Kohli, Joe Root, David Warner, Kevin Pietersen and Fakhar Zaman with his second ton of the series. Pakistan won the match by 36 runs (DLS method).
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Rajat Patidar's unbeaten 66 off 29 balls led Madhya Pradesh to a seven-wicket victory over Delhi in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy semi-final. Chasing 147, MP were struggling at 46/3 before Patidar's explosive innings, including six sixes, secured their place in the final against Mumbai. Delhi's innings was restricted to 146/5 despite Anuj Rawat's 33.
Harshit Rana's 3-33 on his T20I debut helped India secure a 15-run victory over England, giving them a 3-1 series lead. Rana's entry as a concussion substitute proved decisive. Despite England’s Saqib Mahmood’s remarkable triple-wicket maiden, India, powered by Hardik Pandya and Shivam Dube, posted 181/9 and defended it successfully.
Sunil Gavaskar criticized the selection of Harshit Rana as a concussion substitute for Shivam Dube in the fourth T20I against England in Pune, calling it unfair and not like-for-like. Rana, primarily a pacer, replaced the concussed all-rounder Dube, helping India win but sparking controversy. Gavaskar argues such substitutions tarnish victories and should be reassessed.
Mumbai Indians successfully chased 151 runs to defeat UP Warriorz by six wickets in the Women's Premier League. Amelia Kerr's fifer and Hayley Matthews' 68 runs were pivotal. Mumbai's win placed them second with eight points. Kerr and Matthews' performances highlighted the match, alongside Nat Sciver-Brunt's key 37 runs, propelling Mumbai's strong finish.
Desert Vipers will hold their second annual Sustainability Match on January 18, emphasizing carbon footprint reduction and environmental awareness. Team kits are made from recycled materials, and fans are encouraged to wear green. Initiatives include phasing out single-use plastics, using eco-friendly dyes, and promoting sustainable fan jerseys.
Aakash Chopra analysed the 2025 Champions Trophy hosting dilemma for Pakistan Cricket Board. He outlined three scenarios: Pakistan hosting without India, a hybrid model with India's matches in Dubai, or Pakistan forfeiting hosting rights. Chopra emphasised that India's participation is crucial for financial viability due to broadcasting deals, making a tournament without India unlikely.
Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar anticipates Indian captain Rohit Sharma to adopt a conservative approach in the upcoming ODI series against England, aiming to regain his form. Bangar highlights the potential of Yashasvi Jaiswal as a backup player, favouring Shubman Gill alongside Sharma and Kohli as the top three.
R Ashwin's retirement announcement sparked tributes, including a heartfelt message from fellow spinner Washington Sundar. Ashwin responded with a playful movie quote, hinting at a potential passing of the baton. Sundar, a preferred choice of the current coaching staff, is seen as a like-for-like replacement for Ashwin.
Imran Tahir, at 45, displays his brilliance, aiding Joburg Super Kings in a 28-run victory over Durban's Super Giants. His impressive catch symbolizes JSK's determination. Tahir credits the spin trio for their performance and highlights the team's growing momentum and unity as they prepare for upcoming matches.