Ravichandran Ashwin recalls MS Dhoni's brilliant tactics during the 2013 Champions Trophy final, where Dhoni predicted and executed strategic moves to dismiss Jonathan Trott and others. Dhoni's leadership helped India secure a victory, with Ishant Sharma taking crucial wickets and Ashwin bowling the final over. Dhoni's choices demonstrated his unmatched game awareness and confidence in his team's abilities.
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Australia's Test opener Nathan McSweeney has been dropped from the squad for the fourth Test against India after struggling against Jasprit Bumrah. Teenage prodigy Sam Konstas receives his first call-up. McSweeney, a non-specialist opener, averaged a meager 14.40 in three Tests. His dismissal by Bumrah four times in six innings sealed his fate.
Debutant Amir Jangoo's stunning unbeaten century (104) propelled the West Indies to a thrilling four-wicket victory over Bangladesh in the final ODI, completing a 3-0 series sweep. Chasing 322, Jangoo and Keacy Carty (95) forged a crucial partnership after an early wobble. Bangladesh's 321/5, built on Mahmudullah and Jaker Ali's record 150-run stand, proved insufficient.
Ashleigh Gardner's all-round performance led Gujarat Giants to a six-wicket victory against UP Warriorz in the Women's Premier League. Gardner's contributions with 2 for 39 in bowling and a swift 32-ball 52 in batting were pivotal. Priya Mishra's 3 for 25 and essential partnerships propelled Gujarat to chase down 143 with two overs remaining.
Washington Sundar praised Nitish Kumar Reddy's impressive maiden century in the Boxing Day Test against Australia. Reddy's composed 100 off 171 balls helped India avoid a follow-on and featured a popular celebration tribute. Sundar highlighted the team's clarity on their responsibilities and commended Reddy's skill and temperament during the crucial 127-run partnership.
Beau Webster will debut as Australia’s 469th Test player in Sydney against India, replacing Mitchell Marsh. The 31-year-old Tasmanian all-rounder, who switched from spin to seam bowling in 2021, has excelled with 1,837 runs and 39 wickets this season. Captain Pat Cummins aims to rejuvenate the lineup for the final Border-Gavaskar Trophy match.
Australia's Cricket Board has awarded young batter Sam Konstas with his first central contract for the 2025-26 season after his impressive debut performance against India. Matthew Kuhnemann, cleared after a suspect bowling action report, and all-rounder Beau Webster also made the list. Australia are set to play crucial matches, including the World Test Championship final and the Ashes this year.
England's Harry Brook risks a two-year IPL ban after pulling out of his Delhi Capitals contract, citing his commitment to England's upcoming series. IPL's new rule disallows overseas players who withdraw before the season. Brook had opted out of the 2024 IPL following personal loss. Delhi Capitals have yet to name a new captain or Brook's replacement.
England's head coach Brendon McCullum revealed a 'watchful style of cricket' for their upcoming T20I and ODI series against India. This approach focuses on adapting to Indian conditions ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. McCullum expressed confidence in captain Jos Buttler's leadership, emphasizing the importance of maximizing their diverse resources to succeed in the series.
Shreyas Iyer's potential Test comeback is questioned by Ravichandran Ashwin, who argues that strong IPL performances shouldn't be confused with Test credentials. Despite Iyer's key role in KKR's title win and leading PBKS in IPL 2025, Ashwin believes formats should remain distinct, praising Iyer's ODI contributions but emphasising format-specific evaluations.
New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson has been appointed captain of the Desert Vipers for the upcoming ILT20 season, replacing Colin Munro. The 33-year-old signed a two-year deal and aims to lead the team to victory after their runner-up finish last season. Ferguson emphasizes an aggressive, wicket-taking approach as captain and empowering players.