Sophie Ecclestone's all-around brilliance led UP Warriorz to a thrilling victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the first-ever Super Over of the Women's Premier League. Ecclestone's 33 off 19 balls and excellent bowling helped her team tie the match before sealing the win in the Super Over, giving up only four runs against RCB's nine-run target.
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Star Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket after the drawn Test against Australia at the Gabba. Ashwin, India's second-highest wicket-taker in Tests, played 106 matches and took 537 wickets. He revealed insights into his fitness journey and the advice that shaped his career, highlighting the impact of strength training and overcoming dietary challenges.
Shubman Gill, back at the Gabba where he shone in India's 2021 series win, exudes confidence ahead of the third Test. The series is tied 1-1, and India aims for a big first-innings total with the red ball after two sub-par batting performances in Adelaide. Captain Rohit Sharma, returning after missing the first Test, skipped Friday's optional training.
Sediqullah Atal's debut century (104) powered Afghanistan to a crushing 232-run ODI victory over Zimbabwe. A 191-run opening stand with Abdul Malik (84) set up Afghanistan's 286/6. Zimbabwe crumbled for a dismal 54, their second-lowest ODI total ever, highlighting their continued struggles in the format. Afghan bowlers dominated, sharing the wickets amongst themselves.
Former cricketer Yograj Singh sharply criticised Congress spokesperson Shama Mohamed for her remarks on India captain Rohit Sharma's fitness. Mohamed called Rohit 'fat' and 'unimpressive' after his performance in the Champions Trophy. Singh emphasized such comments on cricketers should not be tolerated. Mohamed later clarified her statement, citing it was about general fitness, not body-shaming.
India's spirited avoidance of the follow-on in the Brisbane Test against Australia, thanks to a late partnership between Jasprit Bumrah and Akash Deep, surprised the Australian team. The Indian dressing room's exuberant celebration, particularly over Akash Deep's boundary, prompted speculation from Nathan Lyon that India's top-order batsmen were keen to avoid batting late on day four.
Dinesh Lad, Rohit Sharma's childhood coach, emphasizes the importance of tennis-ball cricket in developing a cricketer's skills. This format improves batting techniques, particularly pull and square cut shots. Lad highlights the role of leagues like ISPL in nurturing future stars, praising its initiative and recognizing its value for refining shot-making abilities, especially for batsmen.
David Warner praised 19-year-old Sam Konstas for his bold debut in the Boxing Day Test against India, where he impressed with a 60 off 65 innings, including a challenging 18-run over against Jasprit Bumrah. Warner urged selectors and fans to support Konstas' fearless approach, emphasizing its potential to inspire other players.
The BCCI is implementing a demerit points system for IPL 2025, similar to the ICC's system for international cricket. A first offence will result in four points and a one-match ban, escalating with further offences. The match referee will decide the severity, potentially affecting penalties for slow over-rates and other transgressions.
Dubai Capitals secured their first ILT20 title with a four-wicket victory over Desert Vipers. Sikandar Raza’s quick 34* ensured the win, supported by Rovman Powell's 63 and Shai Hope's 43. Captain Sam Billings praised the team's perseverance, dedication of bowlers and Raza's match-winning performance, highlighting the evolving standards of the ILT20 tournament.
The World Test Championship may see reforms in its points system, including bonus points for decisive victories and rewarding wins in away games. These changes aim to address perceived unfairness and increase competitiveness. Discussions will take place in April to finalise the new points system, set to commence from the next cycle beginning in June.