Kamindu Mendis has been named ICC Men’s Emerging Cricketer of the Year after an impressive 2024, scoring 1451 runs across formats. He was notably the third-fastest to 1000 Men’s Test runs, with 1049 runs in nine Tests. His career-best 182 against New Zealand and top scores in England highlighted his crucial role in Sri Lanka’s successes.
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Alastair Cook criticized the decision to allow Harshit Rana to replace Shivam Dube as a concussion substitute in the India vs England T20 match. Cook argued that Rana, a heavy seam bowler, didn't match Dube's all-rounder role. He also mentioned that Rana's performance, taking three wickets, significantly affected the game's outcome.
Pakistan cricket is facing instability, particularly affecting star player Babar Azam, whose performance has declined amid frequent changes in leadership and management. Saeed Ajmal criticised former cricketers' harsh comments and urged a more supportive environment. The removal of Babar and Rizwan from captaincy roles is viewed as a hasty decision that may further harm the team's prospects.
Falcon Risers Hyderabad and Srinagar Ke Veer began their ISPL Season 2 campaigns with emphatic victories. Hyderabad triumphed over Chennai Singams by eight wickets, chasing 69 runs easily. Srinagar Ke Veer then dominated KVN Bangalore Strikers, winning by 10 wickets, with Sagar Ali scoring the season's first half-century.
Rassie van der Dussen reflected on missing out on the T20 World Cup despite a strong year, pivoting to opportunities in various T20 leagues. Van der Dussen emphasised on continuous learning and playing for South Africa, inspired by Faf du Plessis. He spoke after Lhuan-dre Pretorius impressed once again in the SA20, aiding Paarl Royals in defeating MI Cape Town.
Pakistan cricket team achieved a historic first-ever clean sweep against South Africa on their soil. Captain Mohammad Rizwan praised the team's collective effort and divine blessings. Young opener Saim Ayub shone with two centuries, earning Player of the Series, while Rizwan emphasized the team's trust and unity as key to their success.
Australian pacer Josh Hazlewood, sidelined due to a side strain, underwent a secret fitness test at the Allan Border Field, away from media scrutiny. He bowled at full tilt, raising hopes of his return for the crucial third Test against India in Brisbane, beginning at the Gabba on December 14. The series is level at 1-1.
KL Rahul will be rested from India's upcoming eight-match white-ball series against England starting January 22 in Kolkata. He will return for the Champions Trophy in February. In the meantime, Rahul opted out of Karnataka's squad for the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy to rest after the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia.
Former cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar believes Rohit Sharma and selectors will influence his retirement decision. Manjrekar also suggested Virat Kohli play County cricket to enhance his Test skills before the England series. Kohli's fitness could allow him to continue playing at a the highest level, asserted Sanjay Bangar.
Australian captain Pat Cummins describes the Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch ahead of the Fourth Test as 'nice and firm' with some grass coverage. The match between Australia and India is crucial for the ICC World Test Championship final. Spinner Nathan Lyon could benefit from the wicket.
Varun Chakravarthy has been nominated for the ICC Men's Player of the Month for January for his impressive performance against England in the T20I series, taking 14 wickets. Other nominees include Jomel Warrican and Noman Ali. Indian opener Gongadi Trisha was nominated in the women's category for her standout play in the ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup.