Sri Lanka's Maheesh Theekshana achieved a sensational hat-trick in the rain-shortened second ODI against New Zealand, limiting them to 255/9 at Seddon Park. He took 4/44, including crucial end-innings wickets, to swing the momentum back to Sri Lanka. New Zealand had initially dominated with Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman's half-centuries, setting a brisk pace.
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The Boxing Day Test saw debutant Sam Konstas confront Virat Kohli on the first day, leading to Kohli's fine by the ICC after an accidental shoulder-bump. Despite Kohli's patient innings, he fell for 36 runs, intensifying their on-field rivalry as Konstas celebrated Kohli's dismissal vigorously.
Rachin Ravindra shines for New Zealand with a crucial century in the Champions Trophy, showcased his calm approach under pressure. His ability to handle spin, highlighted by his performance in India, will be tested against India's spin-heavy attack in the upcoming match in Dubai. Coach Sriram Krishnamurthy praises Rachin's resilience and mental strength post-injury.
Delhi Capitals' undefeated run in IPL 2025 ended at home against Mumbai Indians on Sunday, who secured a 12-run victory. Axar Patel faced a fine from the BCCI for a slow over-rate. Chasing 206, Delhi faltered despite Karun Nair's impressive 89. Karn Sharma's impactful performance, including a rapid innings, wasn't enough as Mumbai triggered a collapse.
Indian pacer Jasprit Bumrah shared moments from a Coldplay concert in Ahmedabad where lead singer Chris Martin dedicated a song to him. Bumrah on Tuesday also won the ICC men’s cricketer of the year award for 2024, joining the ranks of former winners like Virat Kohli and Sachin Tendulkar.
Bowlers in IPL 2025 are celebrating the return of saliva to shine the ball, a practice banned during the pandemic. Pacer Mohit Sharma notes that saliva's weight helps the ball tail in, especially with less dew.
Mumbai Indians and Delhi Capitals will compete in the Women's Premier League final. Mumbai boasts strong performances from Nat Sciver-Brunt and Hayley Matthews, while Delhi relies on bowler Jess Jonassen and Shikha Pandey. Both teams aim for the WPL trophy at Brabourne Stadium, with Mumbai's batting prowess set against Delhi's strong bowling lineup.
Former Indian coach, Lalchand Rajput, praised the International League T20 for transforming UAE cricket by boosting the national team's performance with international player participation. Under Rajput's leadership, the UAE achieved significant milestones, including qualifying for the 2025 Asia Cup. He highlighted key players like Muhammad Waseem and Dhruv Parashar for their promising performances.
Skipper Smriti Mandhana expressed disappointment with India's fielding in the first ODI against Ireland, noting missed opportunities that allowed the visitors to post 238 despite early setbacks on Friday. Mandhana praised the bowlers' efforts on a batting-friendly pitch and highlighted key batting performances from Pratika Rawal and Tejal Hasanbis as India comfortably chased the target.
India's Mohammed Shami cites the advantage of playing all Champions Trophy matches in Dubai, leading to their win against Australia. Shami advocates for the reintroduction of saliva for ball polishing to aid in obtaining reverse swing. India's consistency in Dubai strengthens their chances in the final.
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.