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.
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The South African cricket team arrives in Lahore, Pakistan for an ODI tri-series with New Zealand and Pakistan. Led by Temba Bavuma, the team includes Gerald Coetzee back from injury and six uncapped players. The tri-series serves as preparation for the ICC Champions Trophy beginning February 19. Matches start on February 8 at Gaddafi Stadium.
India's premier off-spinner R Ashwin announced his retirement from international cricket and received a heartfelt send-off from the Indian team in Brisbane. Due to time constraints, a full farewell gathering wasn't possible. An emotional Ashwin delivered a touching speech in the dressing room before departing, receiving a special jersey from Australian captain Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon.
The IPL and PSL schedules overlap for the first time, prompting the PCB to seek top international players such as David Warner and Adil Rashid for the T20 league. While stars like Steve Smith and Kane Williamson may be unavailable, a strong line-up including Daryl Mitchell and Alex Hales is still expected for the PSL.
While commentating on the India-Australia Test match, Harbhajan Singh praised Jasprit Bumrah's scientific bowling approach after dismissing Usman Khawaja. He contrasted Bumrah's skill with Saeed Ajmal's earlier comments about science in bowling. Bumrah then immediately dismissed Nathan McSweeney, further emphasizing Harbhajan's point about Bumrah's unique bowling prowess.
Zimbabwe have announced their squads for the upcoming home series against Ireland, including a one-off Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is. Uncapped players Vincent Masekesa and Nicholas Welch have been included in the Test squad. Sean Williams returns after injury, while the ODI and T20I squads see several changes. The series begins on 6th February in Bulawayo.
Australian pacer Mitchell Starc paid tribute to recently retired Ravichandran Ashwin, acknowledging the Indian off-spinner as a formidable opponent. Ashwin concluded his Test career with 537 wickets, including 115 against Australia. Starc praised Ashwin's remarkable career and his close relationship with fellow spinner Nathan Lyon.
England captain Jos Buttler commended Rohit Sharma's century in the ODI format, citing it as an example of aggressive modern cricket. Despite pressure, Sharma scored his first ODI ton in 16 months, crucial for India's series win. Buttler highlighted the performance's learning value, appreciating Sharma's adaptability and England's need for improvement.
Australia and India prepare for the third Test at the Gabba, with Australia's Josh Hazlewood potentially returning. India seek to repeat their historic 2021 victory at the Gabba, while Australia aim to solidify their World Test Championship final chances. India's lineup is under scrutiny, with Rohit Sharma's batting position and potential bowling changes in focus.
Batting legend Sachin Tendulkar praised Karun Nair’s outstanding performance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, noting his remarkable average of 752 runs in seven innings, with five centuries. Nair’s achievements have led Vidarbha to the tournament final, where they will face Karnataka.
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald praised Rishabh Pant's adaptability with the bat during the fifth Test at SCG. Pant showcased contrasting approaches in two innings, impressing McDonald with his strategic play. The SCG pitch offered a fair contest between bat and ball, deviating from its usual batting-friendly nature, making the match thrilling and competitive.