Kwena Maphaka, at 18 years and 270 days, became South Africa's youngest Test cricketer, impressing everyone with his debut against Pakistan. Despite missing the 2024 SA20 season for U19 World Cup commitments, he remains pivotal to the Paarl Royals' strategy. Known for his explosive pace, Maphaka is set to shine in the 2025 SA20 season under experienced mentors.
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India head coach Gautam Gambhir refuted claims by Australia's Andrew McDonald that Jasprit Bumrah intimidated young opener Sam Konstas. Gambhir emphasised cricket's toughness and asserted Konstas had no right to interfere. McDonald voiced concerns about Konstas' mental state following the incident, but Gambhir dismissed the intimidation allegations.
New Zealand pacer Matt Henry is uncertain for the Champions Trophy final against India due to a shoulder injury sustained during the semifinal against South Africa. Despite the injury, Henry, currently the top wicket-taker with 10 dismissals, returned to bowl. Coach Gary Stead remains hopeful about his recovery for Sunday's crucial match.
The revamped RCB squad has achieved significant wins this season. They secured victories against Kolkata Knight Riders, CSK, and MI in away matches, yet stumbled against the Titans at their home ground. They aim to treat that defeat as a one-off incident, particularly considering the Capitals' formidable bowling arsenal.
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday introduced strict guidelines to enforce discipline, unity, and professionalism among Indian cricket players, following recent failures in Australia. Measures include mandatory domestic match participation, travel guidelines, baggage limits, restrictions on personal staff, and commitment to official duties, with adherence ensuring eligibility and avoiding disciplinary action.
Shakib Al Hasan has been banned from bowling in domestic and international cricket after failing a second test of his bowling action. Despite this setback, he remains eligible to play as a batsman. Shakib is still in the running for a spot in Bangladesh's Champions Trophy team set to compete against India on February 20.
As Virat Kohli neared a century against Pakistan, Axar Patel focused on ensuring he didn't edge the ball, helping Kohli achieve his milestone. Skipper Rohit Sharma cheekily suggested Kohli finish with a six, but he elegantly drove to the boundary for his hundred. India's dominant wins over Bangladesh and Pakistan have almost secured their Champions Trophy semifinals spot.
Ryan Rickelton, wicketkeeper-batter for MI Cape Town, aims to cement his spot in the team and return to the Test side. He values guidance from Hashim Amla and sees wicketkeeping as complementary to batting. Rickelton plays for personal and team success, finds joy in the game, and aims to make an impact in the upcoming SA20 season.
Virat Kohli has been included in Delhi's squad for their final Ranji Trophy league game against Railways, set to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium starting January 30. Kohli returns to Ranji Trophy cricket after over 12 years, aiming to improve his recent batting form seen in the Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
Mohammed Siraj is pleased with the BCCI's decision to lift the saliva ban, which he believes will enhance bowlers' ability to achieve reverse swing in IPL 2025. He looks forward to playing under Shubman Gill for Gujarat Titans and aims to learn from coach Ashish Nehra while contributing to the team's success.
Ricky Ponting expresses surprise at Shreyas Iyer's absence from India's white-ball squad, highlighting Iyer's outstanding performances in domestic cricket and the 2023 World Cup. Ponting praises Iyer's ability to excel on slower pitches and expects him to shine in the upcoming Champions Trophy. Delighted with Iyer's inclusion in Punjab Kings, Ponting looks forward to their potential success.