Sam Konstas, a 19-year-old opening batter, is set to debut for Australia in the Boxing Day Test against India, replacing Nathan McSweeney. Former captain Ricky Ponting acknowledges Konstas's talent and attitude, noting his significant challenge against India's top bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah. Ponting believes Konstas is ready to handle the pressure and maintain his attacking style.
Related news
Joe Root stresses the necessity of consistency ahead of England's five-Test series against India, beginning June 20. Root, England's top Test run-scorer, is prepared for the challenge and emphasizes the importance of performing consistently well in such major series.
Sunil Gavaskar addresses the possibility of resuming India-Pakistan bilateral cricket, citing peace at the borders as essential. Political tensions and security concerns hinder discussions. India hasn't toured Pakistan since 2005-06, and major tournaments are held at neutral venues. Gavaskar stresses sustained peace for any dialogue, as back-channel diplomacy might be ongoing.
The BCCI mandated participation in domestic matches for national team selection and imposed restrictions on personal staff and families during tours after India’s poor performance in Australia. Players are also prohibited from personal shoots or endorsements during series, with non-compliance attracting penalties including fee cuts and potential IPL bans.
India and New Zealand have secured their spots in the Champions Trophy semi-finals with consecutive Group A victories. India beat Bangladesh and Pakistan, while New Zealand triumphed over the same teams. India are playing all their matches in Dubai. Australia's Pat Cummins pointed out that it gives India the benefit of staying in one location
Harbhajan Singh argues India will likely have an edge over Pakistan in the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy by being more familiar with Dubai pitches. He highlights opportunities for players like Mohammed Shami and Arshdeep Singh in Jasprit Bumrah's absence and supports Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to prove their worth despite recent criticism.
Hashmatullah Shahidi will captain Afghanistan in their first ICC Champions Trophy, starting February 19. Key players include Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rashid Khan, and Mohammad Nabi. Spinner Mujeeb-Ur-Rahman will miss the tournament. Afghanistan's group matches are against South Africa, England, and Australia.
Gulf Giants secured their first win of ILT20 Season 3, defeating Dubai Capitals by six wickets. Contributions from Gerhard Erasmus and Shimron Hetmyer helped chase down 166 runs with 11 balls remaining. The Giants' bowlers, especially Aayan Afzal Khan, were instrumental in restricting Dubai to 165/7. Dubai Capitals aim to address their fielding issues for better results ahead.
ISPL Season 2 will transform Mumbai's Dadoji Kondadev Stadium into a cricket and music festival from January 26 to February 15, 2025. The event features tennis-ball cricket, star-studded team ownership, and musical performances by top Indian artists like Sonu Nigam, Mika Singh, and B Praak. Tickets start at ₹199, with broadcasts on Star Sports 1 and Disney+ Hotstar.
Star spinner Rashid Khan returns from injury to captain MI Cape Town in the 2025 SA20 season. His leadership is crucial for the team's redemption after a disappointing last-place finish in 2024. MI Cape Town has recruited Ben Stokes and Trent Boult to bolster their squad, aiming to win the championship.
Persistent rain washed out most of the first day's play in the third India-Australia Test at Brisbane. Fans who braved the weather received full refunds as fewer than 15 overs were possible. Australia reached 28/0 before the downpour halted play. The outfield was submerged at one point, preventing any resumption despite drainage efforts.