Kevin Pietersen has called for prioritizing domestic summer cricket in England for the sport's growth. He expressed concerns over the packed international schedule leading to player fatigue and less engagement with local fans. Despite maintaining high performance levels, the team faces a challenging future with fixtures against Zimbabwe and India in 2025.
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Steve Smith, the Australian cricket legend, has expressed his desire to play in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, where cricket makes a return after 128 years. Despite varying T20I performances, Smith has excelled in domestic leagues and recently scored a century in the Big Bash League. He remains committed to both international and franchise cricket.
Former Australian coach Darren Lehmann criticized chief selector George Bailey for being too close to the Test team to make tough decisions, particularly regarding the struggling top order. Captain Pat Cummins defended Bailey, praising his boldness and objectivity, emphasizing the broader considerations beyond online scrutiny in selection.
UAE is becoming a hub for major cricketing events, successfully hosting tournaments like the IPL, PSL, and Women's T20 World Cup. The Emirates Cricket Board is prepared to host events on short notice and is developing its cricket infrastructure. Despite travel challenges, attendance remains strong, reflecting the nation’s growing prominence in cricket.
The ICC has updated its Elite Panel of Umpires, welcoming South Africa's Allahudien Paleker and England's Alex Wharf. Nitin Menon remains the sole Indian on the panel, maintaining his high ranking. ICC Chair Jay Shah praised the newcomers and thanked the outgoing umpires. The 2025-26 panel features officials from around the world.
Abhishek Sharma's record-breaking century in the fifth T20I against England helped India secure a 150-run victory, taking the series 4-1. Mentor Yuvraj Singh's advice and support from coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav played pivotal roles. Shivam Dube's all-round performance and Varun Chakravarthy's fielding efforts were also instrumental in the win. England skipper Buttler acknowledged India's dominance.
West Indies fast bowling legend Andy Roberts lauded Mohammed Shami as India's best bowler, praising his control and swing. Roberts questioned India's decision to bat first in the second Test against Australia. Though injured, Shami's recent strong domestic performances raise hopes for his return to the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, a series currently tied 1-1.
The BCCI has expressed its condolences on the passing of former Indian cricketer Syed Abid Ali, who died at 83. Renowned for his versatility, Ali played a significant role in India's historic Test series victories in England and the West Indies in 1971. BCCI officials remembered him as a dedicated and respected figure in Indian cricket.
Jasprit Bumrah received ICC Awards and Team of The Year caps at the Dubai International Stadium in recognition of his exceptional 2024 performances. Despite a back injury from the Border-Gavaskar Trophy keeping him out of the 2025 Champions Trophy, Bumrah's accolades highlight a remarkable year in Test and T20 cricket.
The Desert Vipers secured a comprehensive five-wicket win over the Gulf Giants to confirm a top-two finish for themselves. Max Holden's 70 runs off 54 balls led the Vipers to victory in 19 overs, after an effective bowling display, headed by Wanindu Hasaranga and Sam Curran, restricted the Giants to a below-par total.
Afghanistan's head coach Jonathan Trott praised his team's resilient performance in their eight-run victory over England, which keeps them in contention for the ICC Champions Trophy semifinals. The win demonstrates Afghanistan's progress under Trott's guidance and sets the stage for a crucial match against Australia.