Steve Smith's recent struggles with the bat mirror those of Kohli and Sharma on turning Indian pitches. His lean run of form has sparked concern in Australia, despite his impressive career average.
Related news
Harmanpreet Kaur's 54-run knock and Mumbai's effective bowling ensure a nine-run win over Gujarat Giants in the Women's Premier League. With this victory, Mumbai joined Delhi Capitals at 10 points but remains second due to a lower net run-rate. They will seek to finish at the top in their final league match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru.
Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have signed young Mumbai batter Ayush Mhatre for Rs 30 Lakh as a replacement for the injured Ruturaj Gaikwad, who is out for the rest of IPL 2025 due to an elbow injury. Mhatre impressed CSK scouts during mid-season trials. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) also signed Smaran Ravichandran as a replacement for the injured Adam Zampa.
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.
Rajasthan Royals have launched their new jersey for the 2025 IPL season, designed by Jodhpur college students. The jersey, inspired by Vijay Stambh, symbolizes Rajput valor and unity. Featuring traditional motifs with modern designs, it highlights Rajasthan's cultural heritage. The franchise, known for cricketing excellence, seeks to blend tradition with innovation.
Former Australian pacer Damien Fleming has raised concerns over Jasprit Bumrah's fitness after the second Test against Australia. Fleming questioned Bumrah bowling a particular over despite apparent discomfort, suggesting it revealed tactical secrets. Bumrah's reduced pace and absence from training fueled speculation, though captain Rohit Sharma attributed it to workload management.
The Sports Ministry debunked claims of converting cricket players into baseball players to win medals at international events. Baseball, unrecognised by the ministry, was never discussed at Mission Olympic Cell meetings. A BCCI official noted the impracticality of such a switch, given cricket's lucrative paths like IPL and T20 leagues, while baseball lacks governmental support.
A debate ignited over Rohit Sharma's batting position for the Brisbane Test. Sunil Gavaskar suggested Rohit return to opening, with KL Rahul at No. 6. Matthew Hayden, while initially opposing changes, mistakenly referred to "Rahul Dravid," attributing it to Dravid's memorable Adelaide double century from 2003/04.
South Africa's tailenders Kagiso Rabada and Marco Jansen secured a tense two-wicket win over Pakistan in the first test, ensuring the Proteas' place in the next year's World Test Championship final. Spinner Tabraiz Shamsi highlighted South Africa's cricket resurgence with performances in various formats. Captain Bavuma praised the team's journey, overcoming initial setbacks to now lead the WTC table.
Australia chief selector George Bailey is optimistic that Cameron Green will play as a batsman in the World Test Championship final against South Africa. Green, recovering from back surgery, is expected to return to batting by May. Mitchell Marsh was dropped for the Sri Lanka series, but Bailey remains hopeful about his future contributions.
Gujarat Titans are intensively preparing for the 2025 IPL season with a training camp in Surat. Led by coach Ashish Nehra and captain Shubman Gill, they aim to rebound after finishing eighth last season. Additions like Kagiso Rabada and Jos Buttler boost their squad, while core players Shubman Gill, Rashid Khan, and others strengthen the team.