Will Smeed, a top-order English batter, expresses enthusiasm about joining the Pretoria Capitals for the SA20 league. Smeed eagerly anticipates playing in front of South African fans, integrating with his new teammates, and working with coach Jonathan Trott, aiming to entertain and contribute to victories.
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Australian cricketer Matt Renshaw opens up about his chances of replacing retired opener David Warner. While admitting he feels like an outsider in the race, Renshaw emphasizes his experience playing in Asian conditions. He is focused on enjoying his current form and is optimistic about future opportunities, including the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka.
The ILT20 has quickly become a key cricket event despite overlapping with other major T20 leagues. The 2025 edition will feature star-studded squads from six teams, each aiming for glory with new signings and strong retentions, including international legends and promising talents.
SA20 2023 inaugurated a thrilling T20 cricket league in South Africa, featuring six franchises. Sunrisers Eastern Cape triumphed over Pretoria Capitals in the final. Top performer Jos Buttler led the run charts, while Roelof van der Merwe excelled in bowling. The tournament showcased South Africa's potential to host high-quality cricket competitions, highlighting emerging talents.
The third season of ILT20 began with thrilling matches featuring international stars and UAE talent. Waqar Younis praised the league's growth and impactful performances from UAE players like Alishan Sharafu and Farhan Khan. Improved pitch conditions have also balanced the contests, adding excitement to the tournament. Waqar is optimistic about the future of UAE cricket.
AB de Villiers praises South Africa for reaching the WTC final, despite significant changes and criticism. He emphasizes the team's need for time and experience to regain consistency and commends Temba Bavuma's leadership. De Villiers believes in supporting young players and highlights the excitement surrounding the third edition of SA20.
Virat Kohli has re-entered the top-five in ICC's ODI batting rankings after scoring his 51st century against Pakistan. India hold three spots in the top five, with Shubman Gill and Rohit Sharma remaining strong. Other notable movements include KL Rahul, Will Young, and Ben Duckett. Maheesh Theekshana leads ODI bowlers, while Michael Bracewell made significant gains as an all-rounder.
Gautam Gambhir's tenure as India's head coach faces scrutiny with mixed results across formats so far. While successful in T20Is (6/6 wins), the Test performance, especially the 1-3 defeat in Australia and batting issues, raises concerns. Support staff's effectiveness is also under scrutiny going forward. India's next Test assignment is the five-match series in England in June-July.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi congratulated India's U19 women's cricket team for their 9-wicket victory over South Africa, defending their T20 World Cup title. PM Modi praised the team's teamwork and determination.
The Boxing Day Test saw debutant Sam Konstas confront Virat Kohli on the first day, leading to Kohli's fine by the ICC after an accidental shoulder-bump. Despite Kohli's patient innings, he fell for 36 runs, intensifying their on-field rivalry as Konstas celebrated Kohli's dismissal vigorously.
Nicholas Pooran led MI Emirates to a thrilling win over Gulf Giants in ILT20 Season 3, scoring 58* with crucial support from Romario Shepherd. Pooran emphasised faith, teamwork and resilience as key to their success. He praised his teammates, especially Tom Banton and Fazalhaq Farooqi, for their contributions and stressed the importance of trust and clarity in the team's approach.