SA20, South Africa's premier T20 competition, remains a key platform for emerging cricket talents. This season saw standout performances from Dewald Brevis, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Rubin Hermann, and others, showcasing their impressive skills and earning recognition. The league continues to be a valuable launchpad for young players aiming for international success.
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Yuzvendra Chahal's exceptional leg-spin propelled Punjab Kings to an improbable victory against Kolkata Knight Riders, defending a meager 111. Chahal's 4/28 triggered a dramatic collapse, as KKR faltered from a comfortable 62/2 to 95 all out. Marco Jansen's crucial wickets sealed the heist, overshadowing Kolkata's earlier dominance with the ball.
Hardik Pandya expressed his immense joy after India's recent victory, a moment that helped him move past the anguish of the 2017 Champions Trophy final. Over the past eight years, Pandya's career has seen significant highs and lows, but his unwavering focus on the team's success over personal achievements remains constant.
Tim Seifert's explosive 97 not out led New Zealand to an eight-wicket victory over Pakistan, securing a 4-1 T20 series win. Chasing 129, Seifert's knock featured six fours and 10 sixes. Pakistan managed 128-9, with Jimmy Neesham's 5-22 pivotal in restricting their score. The teams now prepare for the ODI series starting Saturday in Napier.
India's cricket team, led by Rohit Sharma, secured a 3-0 series victory against England using an aggressive approach that players had the freedom to adopt. Rohit emphasized the importance of continuing this strategy while preparing for the Champions Trophy. Key performances came from Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, with England captain Jos Buttler acknowledging India's dominance.
India faced a daunting task on Day 3 of the Test match against Australia. Mitchell Starc's fiery spell dismantled the Indian top order, including Virat Kohli, who continued his lean patch with a score of just 3. Former cricketer Deep Dasgupta suggested Kohli focus on a more restrained approach initially to regain his form.
KL Rahul emerged as a key player in India's Champions Trophy triumph, showcasing his talent through crucial performances in several matches. His effective approach against spin and calm presence under pressure were acknowledged by teammates, including captain Rohit Sharma. Rahul emphasized the importance of contributing to the team's needs in his wicketkeeper-batter role.
Former Pakistan skipper Younis Khan has been appointed as Afghanistan cricket team's mentor for the 2025 Champions Trophy, beginning February 19. The high-stakes tournament, with 15 matches held across Pakistan and Dubai, will see eight teams competing. Naseeb Khan, Afghanistan Cricket Board CEO, expressed confidence in Younis' expertise given the conditions.
Former Pakistan captain Sarfaraz Ahmed has urged India to tour Pakistan, highlighting the love and admiration Indian players will receive in the neighbouring country. He reminisced about past tours and stressed the cultural similarities between both nations. He also emphasized the need for resuming bilateral series to foster friendships and strengthen cricket ties.
Gus Atkinson shone on his debut year, grabbing three crucial wickets on Day 1 of the third Test against New Zealand. His impressive performance included breaking a century-opening stand and dismissing Southee in his farewell match. Atkinson's 51 Test wickets in 2024 place him second only to Terry Alderman's debut year record.
India captain Rohit Sharma assured that his knee injury is fine before the Boxing Day Test against Australia. Despite speculation about his batting position, Rohit emphasized the team's interests and praised KL Rahul's recent performances and young Yashasvi Jaiswal's natural playing style.