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.
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Abu Dhabi Knight Riders secured a 42-run victory over MI Emirates in the ILT20 Season 3 match at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Player of the Match Alishan Sharafu scored 55 runs, while Jason Holder's cameo bolstered their total to 182/7. MI Emirates faltered early and despite Kieron Pollard's unbeaten 69, they ended at 140/7.
Xavier Bartlett made a promising IPL debut for Punjab Kings, taking a wicket in his first over against KKR. Despite PBKS's batting struggles, Bartlett contributed with the bat after his impressive performance in the Big Bash League, where he was the leading wicket-taker. His recent international success, including multiple wickets, highlights his potential impact for Punjab Kings this season.
Nineteen-year-old Australian opener Sam Konstas is poised for a potential Boxing Day Test debut against India, replacing the struggling Nathan McSweeney. McSweeney's dropping after just three Tests has ignited debate, with some questioning the decision's fairness.
The Women's Premier League mini-auction saw uncapped Indian talent shine. Simran Shaikh became the most expensive buy at ₹1.9 crore, going to Gujarat Giants. G Kamalini fetched ₹1.6 crore from Mumbai Indians, while Prema Rawat went to RCB for ₹1.2 crore. Deandra Dottin returned to Gujarat Giants for ₹1.7 crore.
India have countered criticism about the team's advantage of playing all Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, sparked by their refusal to tour Pakistan. Former cricketer Brad Haddin claims this has only added pressure on them, he also suggests that Australia may capitalise on the situation in the semif-inal.
England's Test captain Ben Stokes will miss the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy and the subsequent Test series due to a torn left hamstring. The injury, sustained during the third Test against New Zealand, requires surgery in January, sidelining him for three months. Stokes remains optimistic despite the setback, expressing his resolve to return stronger.
Sri Lanka shocked Australia with a 49-run victory in the first ODI in Colombo, thanks to captain Charith Asalanka's 127-run knock and Maheesh Theekshana’s 4-40 bowling figures. Australia, resting key players, failed to chase a target of 215, as they were bowled out for 165 in under 34 overs. Sri Lanka leads the series 1-0.
South Africa's cricket captain, Temba Bavuma, is determined to lead his team to their first World Test Championship Final. Currently topping the standings, they face a crucial two-Test series against Pakistan. Winning just one game secures their spot at Lord's in June. Bavuma emphasized the significance of the championship, calling it a "World Cup" for red-ball cricketers.
Australia's Test opener Nathan McSweeney has been dropped from the squad for the fourth Test against India after struggling against Jasprit Bumrah. Teenage prodigy Sam Konstas receives his first call-up. McSweeney, a non-specialist opener, averaged a meager 14.40 in three Tests. His dismissal by Bumrah four times in six innings sealed his fate.
David Payne, after a stellar season in England's T20 Blast, aims to showcase his talent with the Desert Vipers in the ILT20 for an England comeback. Payne, who took 33 wickets, highlights his fitness owing to exclusive white-ball focus and looks forward to challenging for the title with the Vipers, leveraging UAE conditions.