Ricky Ponting praises Travis Head's exceptional performance, particularly his recent 140 against India, highlighting his potential to become a batting great. Ponting compares Head's aggressive style to Adam Gilchrist, emphasizing his fearless approach and ability to deliver under pressure in crucial matches like the World Test Championship and World Cup finals.
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South African all-rounder Wiaan Mulder replaced England's Brydon Carse in Sunrisers Hyderabad for IPL 2025 after Carse was ruled out due to a toe injury. Mulder, who recently played in the Champions Trophy, joins SRH for Rs 75 lakh. The 27-year-old has represented South Africa in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is.
Dwayne Bravo is set to mentor Kolkata Knight Riders in the upcoming IPL season, replacing Gautam Gambhir. With 631 wickets and 17 T20 titles, Bravo aims to instill his champion mentality and mold the next generation. KKR retains their core team, with Venkatesh Iyer as vice-captain and Ajinkya Rahane as the new captain.
Wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul prefers batting in the top order but is open to adapting to the team's needs. Reflecting on his IPL journey and his move to Delhi Capitals, he expressed eagerness for the new season. Rahul emphasised the importance of flexibility and his commitment to contributing to the team's success in any role.
Jammu and Kashmir skipper Paras Dogra expressed frustration over umpiring standards in their Ranji Trophy game against Mumbai. There were controversial decisions involving Mumbai players Shreyas Iyer and Ajinkya Rahane. Dogra appreciated Shardul Thakur's unbeaten 113, believing J&K can still contend with the 188-run lead if the target remains under 250.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasized the importance of not only winning the ICC Champions Trophy but also defeating India in Dubai on February 23. He expressed confidence in the team's capabilities and praised the renovated Gaddafi Stadium. The event celebrated the completion of stadium renovations with performances by prominent artists and a vibrant fireworks display.
Sunil Gavaskar addresses the possibility of resuming India-Pakistan bilateral cricket, citing peace at the borders as essential. Political tensions and security concerns hinder discussions. India hasn't toured Pakistan since 2005-06, and major tournaments are held at neutral venues. Gavaskar stresses sustained peace for any dialogue, as back-channel diplomacy might be ongoing.
India's cricket team celebrated their third Champions Trophy win by donning the iconic white jackets during the presentation in Dubai. The jackets, designed by Babita M, symbolize elite success and were introduced in 2009. India's victory over New Zealand was highlighted by Rohit Sharma's commanding 76 and KL Rahul's unbeaten 34, cementing their legacy as the best.
The BCCI has included all-rounder Tanush Kotian in the Indian cricket squad for the fourth and fifth Tests against Australia. Kotian, an off-spinner from Mumbai, earned his spot with impressive domestic performances, including a standout 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season. He replaces retired R Ashwin, bolstering India's spin-bowling and batting lineup for the crucial matches ahead.
Smriti Mandhana climbed to the second spot in ICC Women's ODI batting rankings after stellar performances in the series against Ireland. Deepti Sharma reached fourth in bowling rankings and sixth among all-rounders. Australian Ashleigh Gardner led the all-rounders' list, delivering outstanding performances in the Ashes.
Sunil Gavaskar advises Rishabh Pant to respect conditions before playing free-flowing shots in the Border Gavaskar Trophy. Pant's performance has shown only flashes of brilliance. Matthew Hayden encourages Pant to stay fearless while weighing options. The series is level at 1-1, with the fourth Test starting in Melbourne on December 26.