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Joburg Super Kings moved to joint top of the SA20 table with Sunrisers Eastern Cape after their clash against Paarl Royals at the Wanderers on Thursday evening was abandoned due to inclement weather.&nbsp;Both teams were awarded two points, lifting Super Kings up to 17 points, while Royals remained in third position on 15 points.&nbsp;Royals captain David Miller had earlier won the toss under clear skies and elected to bowl. His Super Kings counterpart stated that he too would have taken first strike, and certainly took advantage early on.&nbsp;Du Plessis and his new opening partner James Vince struck a sweet note from the outset as they followed up their rapid 32-run stand against MI Cape Town with a more substantial 73 from only 7.3 overs.&nbsp;Despite not quite middling the ball, Du Plessis still managed to hack his way to 39 off only 24 balls (6x4, 1x6) as he taught Royals teenage seamer Nqobani Mokoena a few harsh lessons on his Bullring debut.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-leonard-hutton-to-don-bradman-5-batters-with-highest-individual-score-in-ashes-bob-simpson-bob-cowper-ashes-2025-26-1762276944046">From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes</a>&nbsp;Du Plessis took two boundaries off Mokoena’s first over before really putting his foot down in the second with three boundaries and a six in the follow up over.&nbsp;With Vince also taking care of left-arm spinner Bjorn Fortuin through a six and four in the third over, the Super Kings raced to 64 without loss when the Powerplay drew to a close.&nbsp;Faf du Plessis, James Vince, Sikandar Raza and Matthew de Villiers all made an impresssion at Wanderers before inclement weather intervened...&nbsp;But the Royals tossed their ball to their golden arm Sikander Raza in the seventh over and the Zimbabwe T20 captain made an immediate impact with his very first ball of his spell when he clean bowled Du Plessis with a gorgeous off-spinner that drifted in the air before gripping and turning through the gate to crash into the stumps.&nbsp;The dismissal did not stem JSK’s momentum though with Matthew de Villiers and Vince adding a further 56 from 39 deliveries for the second wicket. De Villiers upstaged his senior partner, who had settled into the anchor role after reaching his maiden SA20 50 off 33 balls, with a rapid 30 off 22 balls.&nbsp;ALSO READ | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-steve-smith-to-joe-root-5-active-batters-with-most-runs-in-ashes-ben-stokes-jonny-bairstow-usman-khawaja-1762275784636">From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes</a>&nbsp;At this stage JSK were targeting a total in the region of 200 before Raza (2/26) intervened again, having De Villiers caught on the long-off boundary, to pick up his ninth wicket of the competition in just three matches.&nbsp;The JSK innings fell away a bit from hereon, especially after Wiaan Mulder, Vince and Shubham Ranjane all fell in quick succession before a floodlight failure further halted their momentum with Donovan Ferreira also perishing immediately after the resumption.&nbsp;Royals had done well to claw their way back into the contest and would have felt confident of chasing JSK’s eventual 187/6, but ultimately had to settle for a share of the spoils when the lightning intervened.

Royals captain David Miller had won the toss under clear skies and elected to bowl. His Super Kings counterpart Faf du Plessis stated that he too would have taken first strike, and certainly took advantage early on.

Joburg Super Kings moved to joint top of the SA20 table with Sunrisers Eastern Cape after their clash against Paarl Royals at the Wanderers on Thursday evening was abandoned due to inclement weather. Both teams were awarded two points, lifting Super Kings up to 17 points, while Royals remained in third position on 15 points. Royals captain David Miller had earlier won the toss under clear skies and elected to bowl. His Super Kings counterpart stated that he too would have taken first strike, and certainly took advantage early on. Du Plessis and his new opening partner James Vince struck a sweet note from the outset as they followed up their rapid 32-run stand against MI Cape Town with a more substantial 73 from only 7.3 overs. Despite not quite middling the ball, Du Plessis still managed to hack his way to 39 off only 24 balls (6x4, 1x6) as he taught Royals teenage seamer Nqobani Mokoena a few harsh lessons on his Bullring debut. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Du Plessis took two boundaries off Mokoena’s first over before really putting his foot down in the second with three boundaries and a six in the follow up over. With Vince also taking care of left-arm spinner Bjorn Fortuin through a six and four in the third over, the Super Kings raced to 64 without loss when the Powerplay drew to a close. Faf du Plessis, James Vince, Sikandar Raza and Matthew de Villiers all made an impresssion at Wanderers before inclement weather intervened... But the Royals tossed their ball to their golden arm Sikander Raza in the seventh over and the Zimbabwe T20 captain made an immediate impact with his very first ball of his spell when he clean bowled Du Plessis with a gorgeous off-spinner that drifted in the air before gripping and turning through the gate to crash into the stumps. The dismissal did not stem JSK’s momentum though with Matthew de Villiers and Vince adding a further 56 from 39 deliveries for the second wicket. De Villiers upstaged his senior partner, who had settled into the anchor role after reaching his maiden SA20 50 off 33 balls, with a rapid 30 off 22 balls. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes At this stage JSK were targeting a total in the region of 200 before Raza (2/26) intervened again, having De Villiers caught on the long-off boundary, to pick up his ninth wicket of the competition in just three matches. The JSK innings fell away a bit from hereon, especially after Wiaan Mulder, Vince and Shubham Ranjane all fell in quick succession before a floodlight failure further halted their momentum with Donovan Ferreira also perishing immediately after the resumption. Royals had done well to claw their way back into the contest and would have felt confident of chasing JSK’s eventual 187/6, but ultimately had to settle for a share of the spoils when the lightning intervened.

Royals captain David Miller had won the toss under clear skies and elected to bowl. His Super Kings counterpart Faf du Plessis stated that he too would have taken first strike, and certainly took advantage early on.

SA20: Du Plessis, Vince shine before lightning strikes at the Bullring

The Women's Premier League 2026 is here. This is the first WPL edition after India's maiden ODI World Cup win in November last year. WPL 2026 will see a lot of Indian and international stars playing for five franchises. Some of the biggest names in this edition are India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, ODI World Cup player of the series Deepti Sharma, Player of the Final Shefali Verma, South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt, Aussie veteran Meg Lanning to name a few.<h2>As the season gears up for start, here's all you need to know about WPL 2026</h2>Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, UP Warriorz and Delhi Capitals are the five teams in the tournament which is being played from Janaury 9 to February 5.Mumbai Indians are the defending champions, having won the WPL 2025 by beating three-time finalists Delhi Capitals by eight runs in the last year's final. Royal Challengers Bengaluru are the only other side to have won a WPL title - they had beaten Delhi Capitals in WPL 2024 to lift their maiden title.<h2>Who are the captain in WPL 2026?</h2>Mumbai Indians are led by India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur Royal Challengers Bengaluru are being led dashing India opener Smriti Mandhana Aussie all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner is leading Gujarat Giants India batter Jemimah Rodrigues has been captain of Delhi Capitals Aussie veteran Meg Lanning will be leading UP Warriorz<h2>WPL 2026 all squads</h2>Mumbai Indians: Nat Sciver-Brunt, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Hayley Mathews, Amanjot Kaur, G Kamalini, Amelia Kerr, Shabnim Ismail, Sanskriti Gupta, Sajeevan Sajana, Triveni Vasistha, Nalla Reddy, Saika Ishaque, Rahila Firdous, Nicola Carey, Poonam Khemnar and Milly IllingworthDelhi Capitals: Jemimah Rodrigues (C), Shafali Verma, Marizanne Kapp, Niki Prasad, Laura Wolvaardt, Chinelle Henry, Sree Charani , Sneh Rana, Lizelee Lee, Deeya Yadav, Taniyaa Bhatia, Mamatha Madiwala, Nandani Sharma, Lucy Hamilton and Minnu ManiRoyal Challengers Bengaluru: Smriti Mandhana (C), Richa Ghosh, Shreyanka Patil, Georgia Voll, Nadine de Klerk, Radha Yadav, Lauren Bell, Linsey Smith, Prema Rawat, Arundathi Reddy, Pooja Vastrakar, Grace Harris, Gautami Naik, Prathyoosha Kumar and D HemalathaGujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner (C), Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Renuka Singh, Bharti Fulmali, Titas Sadhu, Kashvee Gautam, Kanika Ahuja, Tanuja Kanwar, Georgia Wareham, Anushka Sharma, Happy Kumari, Kim Garth, Yastika Bhatia, Shivani Singh, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Ayushi SoniUP Warriorz: Shweta Sehrawat, Deepti Sharma, Sophie Ecclestone, Meg Lanning (C), Phoebe Litchfield, Kiran Navgire, Harleen Deol, Kranti Goud, Asha Sobhana, Deandra Dottin, Shikha Pandey, Shipra Giri, Simran Shaikh, Tara Norris, Chloe Tryon, Suman Meena, G Trisha and Pratika Rawal<h2>How the tournament is played?</h2>There will a totol of 20 league matches with each team playing every other team twice. The second and third placed team will play the eliminator at the end of league stage. The winner of the eliminator will face the league topper team in the final.<h2>Where the matches are being played?</h2>Out of 22 matches, including the eliminator and the final, first 11 matches will played at DY Patil stadium in Navi Mumbai while the rest of 11 matches will played in Vadodara.<h2>WPL 2026 Full Schedule –</h2><h3>Navi Mumbai leg</h3>Jan 9: Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Jan 10: UP Warriorz vs Gujarat Giants Jan 10: Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals Jan 11: Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Giants Jan 12: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs UP Warriorz Jan 13: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants Jan 14: UP Warriorz vs Delhi Capitals Jan 15: Mumbai Indians vs UP Warriorz Jan 16: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants Jan 17: UP Warriorz vs Mumbai Indians Jan 17: Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru<h3>Vadodara leg</h3>Jan 19: Gujarat Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Jan 20: Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians Jan 22: Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz Jan 24: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals Jan 26: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians Jan 27: Gujarat Giants vs Delhi Capitals Jan 29: UP Warriorz vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Jan 30: Gujarat Giants vs Mumbai Indians Feb 1: Delhi Capitals vs UP Warriorz Feb 3: Eliminator Feb 5: Final<h2>What time the matches start?</h2>The matches will start 7:30 PM India time with toss taking places at 7 PM. On double-header days, the first match will start at 3:30 pm in the afternoon while and second match at 7:30 pm. There are only tow double-header days in WPL 2026, on January 10 and 17.In the first match, Harmanpreet Kaur will face off Smriti Mandhana as two-time champions Mumbai Indians take on WPL 2024 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Navi Mumbai.

This is the first WPL edition after India's maiden ODI World Cup win in November last year. Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, UP Warriorz and Delhi Capitals are the five teams in the tournament which is being played from Janaury 9 to February 5.

The Women's Premier League 2026 is here. This is the first WPL edition after India's maiden ODI World Cup win in November last year. WPL 2026 will see a lot of Indian and international stars playing for five franchises. Some of the biggest names in this edition are India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur, ODI World Cup player of the series Deepti Sharma, Player of the Final Shefali Verma, South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt, Aussie veteran Meg Lanning to name a few. As the season gears up for start, here's all you need to know about WPL 2026 Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, UP Warriorz and Delhi Capitals are the five teams in the tournament which is being played from Janaury 9 to February 5. Mumbai Indians are the defending champions, having won the WPL 2025 by beating three-time finalists Delhi Capitals by eight runs in the last year's final. Royal Challengers Bengaluru are the only other side to have won a WPL title - they had beaten Delhi Capitals in WPL 2024 to lift their maiden title. Who are the captain in WPL 2026? Mumbai Indians are led by India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur Royal Challengers Bengaluru are being led dashing India opener Smriti Mandhana Aussie all-rounder Ashleigh Gardner is leading Gujarat Giants India batter Jemimah Rodrigues has been captain of Delhi Capitals Aussie veteran Meg Lanning will be leading UP Warriorz WPL 2026 all squads Mumbai Indians: Nat Sciver-Brunt, Harmanpreet Kaur (C), Hayley Mathews, Amanjot Kaur, G Kamalini, Amelia Kerr, Shabnim Ismail, Sanskriti Gupta, Sajeevan Sajana, Triveni Vasistha, Nalla Reddy, Saika Ishaque, Rahila Firdous, Nicola Carey, Poonam Khemnar and Milly Illingworth Delhi Capitals: Jemimah Rodrigues (C), Shafali Verma, Marizanne Kapp, Niki Prasad, Laura Wolvaardt, Chinelle Henry, Sree Charani , Sneh Rana, Lizelee Lee, Deeya Yadav, Taniyaa Bhatia, Mamatha Madiwala, Nandani Sharma, Lucy Hamilton and Minnu Mani Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Smriti Mandhana (C), Richa Ghosh, Shreyanka Patil, Georgia Voll, Nadine de Klerk, Radha Yadav, Lauren Bell, Linsey Smith, Prema Rawat, Arundathi Reddy, Pooja Vastrakar, Grace Harris, Gautami Naik, Prathyoosha Kumar and D Hemalatha Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner (C), Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Renuka Singh, Bharti Fulmali, Titas Sadhu, Kashvee Gautam, Kanika Ahuja, Tanuja Kanwar, Georgia Wareham, Anushka Sharma, Happy Kumari, Kim Garth, Yastika Bhatia, Shivani Singh, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Rajeshwari Gayakwad and Ayushi Soni UP Warriorz: Shweta Sehrawat, Deepti Sharma, Sophie Ecclestone, Meg Lanning (C), Phoebe Litchfield, Kiran Navgire, Harleen Deol, Kranti Goud, Asha Sobhana, Deandra Dottin, Shikha Pandey, Shipra Giri, Simran Shaikh, Tara Norris, Chloe Tryon, Suman Meena, G Trisha and Pratika Rawal How the tournament is played? There will a totol of 20 league matches with each team playing every other team twice. The second and third placed team will play the eliminator at the end of league stage. The winner of the eliminator will face the league topper team in the final. Where the matches are being played? Out of 22 matches, including the eliminator and the final, first 11 matches will played at DY Patil stadium in Navi Mumbai while the rest of 11 matches will played in Vadodara. WPL 2026 Full Schedule – Navi Mumbai leg Jan 9: Mumbai Indians vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Jan 10: UP Warriorz vs Gujarat Giants Jan 10: Mumbai Indians vs Delhi Capitals Jan 11: Delhi Capitals vs Gujarat Giants Jan 12: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs UP Warriorz Jan 13: Mumbai Indians vs Gujarat Giants Jan 14: UP Warriorz vs Delhi Capitals Jan 15: Mumbai Indians vs UP Warriorz Jan 16: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Gujarat Giants Jan 17: UP Warriorz vs Mumbai Indians Jan 17: Delhi Capitals vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Vadodara leg Jan 19: Gujarat Giants vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Jan 20: Delhi Capitals vs Mumbai Indians Jan 22: Gujarat Giants vs UP Warriorz Jan 24: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Delhi Capitals Jan 26: Royal Challengers Bengaluru vs Mumbai Indians Jan 27: Gujarat Giants vs Delhi Capitals Jan 29: UP Warriorz vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru Jan 30: Gujarat Giants vs Mumbai Indians Feb 1: Delhi Capitals vs UP Warriorz Feb 3: Eliminator Feb 5: Final What time the matches start? The matches will start 7:30 PM India time with toss taking places at 7 PM. On double-header days, the first match will start at 3:30 pm in the afternoon while and second match at 7:30 pm. There are only tow double-header days in WPL 2026, on January 10 and 17. In the first match, Harmanpreet Kaur will face off Smriti Mandhana as two-time champions Mumbai Indians take on WPL 2024 champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Navi Mumbai.

This is the first WPL edition after India's maiden ODI World Cup win in November last year. Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, UP Warriorz and Delhi Capitals are the five teams in the tournament which is being played from Janaury 9 to February 5.

WPL 2026 Guide: Full squads, new Captains, and complete schedule for Navi Mumbai & Vadodara

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) named former India batting coach Vikram Rathour as its new batting coach on a consultancy basis. The appointment was announced on Thursday (January 8). Rathour has been brought in to help the team to prepare for the T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held from February to March. He will take charge from January 18 and his contract will last until March 10, two days after the World Cup ends.&nbsp;Earlier, Rathour was an important member of Rahul Dravid’s coaching staff with India from September 2019 to July 2024 and during this period, India reached the finals of the ODI World Cup in 2023 and the T20 World Cup in 2024.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/wpl-2026-guide-full-squads-new-captains-and-full-schedule-for-navi-mumbai-vadodara-1767882744205">WPL 2026 Guide: Full squads, new Captains, two venues, and complete schedule</a>&nbsp;After leaving the Indian team setup, Rathour joined Dravid at Rajasthan Royals, where he continues to work as the batting coach. Rathour has also represented India on international stage, playing six Test matches and seven ODIs.&nbsp;Sri Lanka’s decision to appoint Rathour comes as the team looks to move on from a disappointing 2024 T20 World Cup, where they were knocked out in the group stage. Since then, Sri Lanka have won only two of the six bilateral series they have played and recently lost the first T20I against Pakistan.&nbsp;Sri Lanka are placed in Group B of the T20 World Cup alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman and Zimbabwe and will begin their campaign against Ireland on February 8.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-hazare-trophy-how-did-they-lose-sarfaraz-khan-s-historic-15-ball-fifty-in-vain-as-mumbai-botch-chase-vs-punjab-in-1-run-thriller-1767881016393">How did they lose? Sarfaraz's hits 20-ball 62 but Mumbai botch chase vs Punjab</a>&nbsp;The ongoing series against Pakistan will be Sri Lanka’s final preparation before the World Cup. With Rathour joining the setup, it will be interesting to see how the team performs under new guidance in the upcoming T20I matches.&nbsp;

Sri Lanka are placed in Group B of the T20 World Cup alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman and Zimbabwe and will begin their campaign against Ireland on February 8. 

Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) named former India batting coach Vikram Rathour as its new batting coach on a consultancy basis. The appointment was announced on Thursday (January 8). Rathour has been brought in to help the team to prepare for the T20 World Cup 2026, which will be held from February to March. He will take charge from January 18 and his contract will last until March 10, two days after the World Cup ends. Earlier, Rathour was an important member of Rahul Dravid’s coaching staff with India from September 2019 to July 2024 and during this period, India reached the finals of the ODI World Cup in 2023 and the T20 World Cup in 2024. Also Read - WPL 2026 Guide: Full squads, new Captains, two venues, and complete schedule After leaving the Indian team setup, Rathour joined Dravid at Rajasthan Royals, where he continues to work as the batting coach. Rathour has also represented India on international stage, playing six Test matches and seven ODIs. Sri Lanka’s decision to appoint Rathour comes as the team looks to move on from a disappointing 2024 T20 World Cup, where they were knocked out in the group stage. Since then, Sri Lanka have won only two of the six bilateral series they have played and recently lost the first T20I against Pakistan. Sri Lanka are placed in Group B of the T20 World Cup alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman and Zimbabwe and will begin their campaign against Ireland on February 8. Also Read - How did they lose? Sarfaraz's hits 20-ball 62 but Mumbai botch chase vs Punjab The ongoing series against Pakistan will be Sri Lanka’s final preparation before the World Cup. With Rathour joining the setup, it will be interesting to see how the team performs under new guidance in the upcoming T20I matches.

Sri Lanka are placed in Group B of the T20 World Cup alongside Australia, Ireland, Oman and Zimbabwe and will begin their campaign against Ireland on February 8.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Sri Lanka appoints former India coach as new batting consultant

Punjab and Mumbai played one of the most dramatic matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy history. Chasing a modest 216-run target, Mumbai botched the chase and fell short by 1 run on Thursday (Jan 8) in Jaipur. Mumbai were bowled out for 215 in just 26.2 overs despite being 139/2 in 14.3 overs at one stage. Punjab's one-run victory margin is the joint-lowest in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and first such instance since 2021. The 216-run target is also the fouth lowest total defended by a team in the tournament history.<h2>Mumbai botch easy chase vs Punjab</h2>Chasing 216, Mumbai had a brilliant start as Musheer Khan and Angkrish Raghuvanshi added 57 runs for the first wicket in 8.1 overs before Khan was dimissed. Raghuvanshi was next to go 33 runs later before Sarfaraz began his carnage. His 15-ball 50 - the fastest in Lisa A cricket for India - put Mumbai at 139/2 in 14.3 overs. Needing just 77 runs in nearly 35 overs, Mumbai suffered a dramatic collapse.Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-starc-to-stokes-meet-top-5-bowlers-with-most-wickets-in-ashes-2025-26-1767873278653">From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26</a>Skipper Shreyas Iyer, however, tried to hold one end with his 34-ball 45 and took his team to 201 before getting out but it was not enough in the end. Mumbai lost as four wickets for just 14 runs and were dismissed for 215 runs in 26.2 overs. Gurnoor Brar and Mayank Markende starred for Punjab with each bowler taking a four-wicket haul.<h2>Sarfaraz shows fiery batting before IPL 2026</h2>Out of favour with BCCI, Sarfaraz was recently picked up at the IPL 2026 auction by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for INR 75 lakh. He showed that he can bat aggresively druing his innings of 20-ball 62 which included seven four and five sixes. He also smashed India T20I opener Abhishek Sharma for 30 runs in an over during his fiery innings but alas, failed to make his team win.Over of mayhem: Sarfaraz samshed Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma for 30 runs in the 10th over (6, 4, 6, 4, 6, 4).Record Broken: He eclipsed the previous Indian record of fastest List A fifty of 16 balls (held by Atit Sheth and Abhijit Kale).Final Stat: Sarfaraz finished with 62 off 20 balls (7 fours, 5 sixes) before being trapped LBW by Mayank Markande who took 4/31.The dramatic Collapse: Mumbai were in commond at 201/5 chasing 217, but lost their final 5 wickets for just 14 runs to finish at 215 all out in 26.2 overs.

Mumbai were bowled out for 215 in just 26.2 overs druing chase of 216 despite being 139/2 in 14.3 overs at one stage.  Sarfaraz finished with 62 off 20 balls (7 fours, 5 sixes) before being trapped LBW by Mayank Markande who took 4/31.

Punjab and Mumbai played one of the most dramatic matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy history. Chasing a modest 216-run target, Mumbai botched the chase and fell short by 1 run on Thursday (Jan 8) in Jaipur. Mumbai were bowled out for 215 in just 26.2 overs despite being 139/2 in 14.3 overs at one stage. Punjab's one-run victory margin is the joint-lowest in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and first such instance since 2021. The 216-run target is also the fouth lowest total defended by a team in the tournament history. Mumbai botch easy chase vs Punjab Chasing 216, Mumbai had a brilliant start as Musheer Khan and Angkrish Raghuvanshi added 57 runs for the first wicket in 8.1 overs before Khan was dimissed. Raghuvanshi was next to go 33 runs later before Sarfaraz began his carnage. His 15-ball 50 - the fastest in Lisa A cricket for India - put Mumbai at 139/2 in 14.3 overs. Needing just 77 runs in nearly 35 overs, Mumbai suffered a dramatic collapse. Also Read - From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26 Skipper Shreyas Iyer, however, tried to hold one end with his 34-ball 45 and took his team to 201 before getting out but it was not enough in the end. Mumbai lost as four wickets for just 14 runs and were dismissed for 215 runs in 26.2 overs. Gurnoor Brar and Mayank Markende starred for Punjab with each bowler taking a four-wicket haul. Sarfaraz shows fiery batting before IPL 2026 Out of favour with BCCI, Sarfaraz was recently picked up at the IPL 2026 auction by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for INR 75 lakh. He showed that he can bat aggresively druing his innings of 20-ball 62 which included seven four and five sixes. He also smashed India T20I opener Abhishek Sharma for 30 runs in an over during his fiery innings but alas, failed to make his team win. Over of mayhem: Sarfaraz samshed Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma for 30 runs in the 10th over (6, 4, 6, 4, 6, 4). Record Broken: He eclipsed the previous Indian record of fastest List A fifty of 16 balls (held by Atit Sheth and Abhijit Kale). Final Stat: Sarfaraz finished with 62 off 20 balls (7 fours, 5 sixes) before being trapped LBW by Mayank Markande who took 4/31. The dramatic Collapse: Mumbai were in commond at 201/5 chasing 217, but lost their final 5 wickets for just 14 runs to finish at 215 all out in 26.2 overs.

Mumbai were bowled out for 215 in just 26.2 overs druing chase of 216 despite being 139/2 in 14.3 overs at one stage. &nbsp;Sarfaraz finished with 62 off 20 balls (7 fours, 5 sixes) before being trapped LBW by Mayank Markande who took 4/31.

Vijay Hazare Trophy: How did they lose? Sarfaraz Khan’s historic 15-ball fifty in vain as Mumbai botch chase vs Punjab in 1 run thriller

Australia comfortably chased a target of 160 runs in 31.2 overs on Thursday (Jan 8) to win the fifth and final Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series. The match was played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Earlier, England were bowled out for 342 in their second innings, setting Australia a small target on the final day. The home team had no trouble reaching it, as openers Travis Head (29) and Jake Weatherald (34) gave Australia a quick start by putting on 62 runs in just 63 balls. Josh Tongue then dismissed both batters before the lunch.&nbsp;&nbsp;After that, captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne steadied the innings for their team before getting out. In the end, Alex Carey scored 16*, while Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 22 as Australia completed the chase. With this win, Australia claimed their fourth victory of the series and sealed the Ashes 4-1.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-hazare-trophy-sarfraz-khan-scripts-history-becomes-fastest-to-achieve-this-record-1767866054137">Vijay Hazare Trophy: Sarfraz Khan scripts history, becomes fastest to achieve THIS record</a>&nbsp;Australia have now won seven of their eight matches in the current World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle and continue to lead the points table. Their win in Sydney improved their points percentage from 85.71 to 87.5. &nbsp;Whereas, England are struggling in the WTC standings, as they sit seventh on the table, with their points percentage dropping from 35.19 to 31.66. They have won only three of their 10 Tests so far in this cycle. As a result, their chances of finishing in the top two and reaching the WTC final in 2027 are now under serious threat.&nbsp;Also Check - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/from-starc-to-stokes-meet-top-5-bowlers-with-most-wickets-in-ashes-2025-26-1767873278653">From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26</a>&nbsp;For England to qualify for the WTC final for the first time, they must win all of their remaining matches and avoid losing any more points.<h2>Updated WTC 2025-27 points table after Australia beat England in 5th Ashes&nbsp;</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Position</td><td>Team</td><td>Matches</td><td>Won</td><td>Lost</td><td>Draw</td><td>Points</td><td>PCT%</td></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Australia</td><td>8</td><td>7</td><td>1</td><td>–</td><td>84</td><td>87.5</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>3</td><td>2</td><td>–</td><td>1</td><td>28</td><td>77.78</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>South Africa</td><td>4</td><td>3</td><td>1</td><td>–</td><td>36</td><td>75.00</td></tr><tr><td>4</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>–</td><td>1</td><td>16</td><td>66.67</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Pakistan</td><td>2</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>–</td><td>12</td><td>50.00</td></tr><tr><td>6</td><td>India</td><td>9</td><td>4</td><td>4</td><td>1</td><td>52</td><td>48.15</td></tr><tr><td>7</td><td>England</td><td>10</td><td>3</td><td>6</td><td>1</td><td>32</td><td>31.66</td></tr><tr><td>8</td><td>Bangladesh</td><td>2</td><td>0</td><td>1</td><td>1</td><td>4</td><td>16.67</td></tr><tr><td>9</td><td>West Indies</td><td>8</td><td>0</td><td>7</td><td>1</td><td>4</td><td>4.17</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>



For England to qualify for the WTC final for the first time, they must win all of their remaining matches and avoid losing any more points.

Australia comfortably chased a target of 160 runs in 31.2 overs on Thursday (Jan 8) to win the fifth and final Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series. The match was played at the Sydney Cricket Ground. Earlier, England were bowled out for 342 in their second innings, setting Australia a small target on the final day. The home team had no trouble reaching it, as openers Travis Head (29) and Jake Weatherald (34) gave Australia a quick start by putting on 62 runs in just 63 balls. Josh Tongue then dismissed both batters before the lunch. After that, captain Steve Smith and Marnus Labuschagne steadied the innings for their team before getting out. In the end, Alex Carey scored 16*, while Cameron Green remained unbeaten on 22 as Australia completed the chase. With this win, Australia claimed their fourth victory of the series and sealed the Ashes 4-1. Also Read - Vijay Hazare Trophy: Sarfraz Khan scripts history, becomes fastest to achieve THIS record Australia have now won seven of their eight matches in the current World Test Championship (WTC) 2025-27 cycle and continue to lead the points table. Their win in Sydney improved their points percentage from 85.71 to 87.5. Whereas, England are struggling in the WTC standings, as they sit seventh on the table, with their points percentage dropping from 35.19 to 31.66. They have won only three of their 10 Tests so far in this cycle. As a result, their chances of finishing in the top two and reaching the WTC final in 2027 are now under serious threat. Also Check - From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26 For England to qualify for the WTC final for the first time, they must win all of their remaining matches and avoid losing any more points. Updated WTC 2025-27 points table after Australia beat England in 5th Ashes

For England to qualify for the WTC final for the first time, they must win all of their remaining matches and avoid losing any more points.

Updated WTC 2025-27 Points Table: Australia consolidate top spot, England's woes continue

Australia's Mitchell Starc took 31 wickets in Ashes 2025-26 - the most by any bowler. The next are Brydon Carse (22 wickets), Scott Boland (20 wickets), Josh Tongue (18 wickets), Michale Neser & Ben Stokes - 15 wickets each.

Australia's Mitchell Starc took 31 wickets in Ashes 2025-26 - the most by any bowler. The next are Brydon Carse (22 wickets), Scott Boland (20 wickets), Josh Tongue (18 wickets), Michael Neser &amp; Ben Stokes - 15 wickets each.

From Starc to Stokes: Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Ashes 2025-26

In the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Mumbai and Punjab, star batter Sarfaraz Khan made history on Thursday (Jan 8) by scoring the fastest half-century in the tournament’s history. He reached the milestone in just 15 balls, surpassing the previous record of 16 balls set by Atit Sheth for Baroda against Chhattisgarh in the 2020-21 season. Sarfaraz came in to bat after his brother Musheer Khan was dismissed, with Mumbai at 57/1 in 8.2 overs. He began aggressively, smashing 30 runs off his very first over while taking on Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma. Sarfaraz went on to score a blistering 62 off 20 balls, striking seven fours and five sixes. Mumbai captain Shreyas Iyer also contributed with a fine knock of 45 off 34 balls, including four fours and two sixes.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/end-of-bazball-ecb-vows-to-make-necessary-changes-what-it-means-for-mccullum-and-stokes-1767859655345">End of bazball? ECB vows to make ‘necessary changes.’ What it means for McCullum and Stokes</a>&nbsp;So far, Sarfaraz has been in excellent form in this Vijay Hazare Trophy. He has scored 303 runs in five innings at an average of 75.75 and a strike rate of 190.56, including one century and two half-centuries.<h2>Mumbai vs Punjab, Group C, Vijay Hazare Trophy&nbsp;</h2>After winning the toss and choose to bowl first, Mumbai bowled out Punjab for 216 in 45.1 overs. Ramandeep Singh top-scored for his team with 72 off 74 balls, while Anmolpreet Singh added 57 off 75.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read -<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-ben-stokes-dismisses-quitting-captaincy-talks-vows-to-turn-wrongs-to-right-after-crushing-ashes-beat-1767849863099"> Ashes: Stokes dismisses quitting captaincy talks, vows to turn ‘wrongs to right’</a>&nbsp;For Mumbai, Musheer Khan was the standout bowler, taking three wickets for 37 runs. Onkar Tarmale (2/38), Shivam Dube (2/20) and Shashank Attarde (2/57) also picked up two wickets each.&nbsp;Despite strong batting efforts from Sarfaraz and Iyer, Mumbai narrowly lost the match by one run. Chasing 217, they were bowled out for 215 in 26.2 overs. Gurnoor Brar took four wickets for 57 runs, while Mayank Markande claimed four for 31, as Mumbai lost their last five wickets for just 14 runs.

Sarfaraz has been in excellent form in this Vijay Hazare Trophy. He has scored 303 runs in five innings at an average of 75.75 and a strike rate of 190.56, including one century and two half-centuries.

In the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Mumbai and Punjab, star batter Sarfaraz Khan made history on Thursday (Jan 8) by scoring the fastest half-century in the tournament’s history. He reached the milestone in just 15 balls, surpassing the previous record of 16 balls set by Atit Sheth for Baroda against Chhattisgarh in the 2020-21 season. Sarfaraz came in to bat after his brother Musheer Khan was dismissed, with Mumbai at 57/1 in 8.2 overs. He began aggressively, smashing 30 runs off his very first over while taking on Punjab captain Abhishek Sharma. Sarfaraz went on to score a blistering 62 off 20 balls, striking seven fours and five sixes. Mumbai captain Shreyas Iyer also contributed with a fine knock of 45 off 34 balls, including four fours and two sixes. Also Read - End of bazball? ECB vows to make ‘necessary changes.’ What it means for McCullum and Stokes So far, Sarfaraz has been in excellent form in this Vijay Hazare Trophy. He has scored 303 runs in five innings at an average of 75.75 and a strike rate of 190.56, including one century and two half-centuries. Mumbai vs Punjab, Group C, Vijay Hazare Trophy After winning the toss and choose to bowl first, Mumbai bowled out Punjab for 216 in 45.1 overs. Ramandeep Singh top-scored for his team with 72 off 74 balls, while Anmolpreet Singh added 57 off 75. Also Read - Ashes: Stokes dismisses quitting captaincy talks, vows to turn ‘wrongs to right’ For Mumbai, Musheer Khan was the standout bowler, taking three wickets for 37 runs. Onkar Tarmale (2/38), Shivam Dube (2/20) and Shashank Attarde (2/57) also picked up two wickets each. Despite strong batting efforts from Sarfaraz and Iyer, Mumbai narrowly lost the match by one run. Chasing 217, they were bowled out for 215 in 26.2 overs. Gurnoor Brar took four wickets for 57 runs, while Mayank Markande claimed four for 31, as Mumbai lost their last five wickets for just 14 runs.

Sarfaraz has been in excellent form in this Vijay Hazare Trophy. He has scored 303 runs in five innings at an average of 75.75 and a strike rate of 190.56, including one century and two half-centuries.

Vijay Hazare Trophy: Sarfraz Khan scripts history, becomes fastest to achieve THIS record

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the five Indian batters fastest to 7000 runs in One Day Internationals. This list also includes MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the five Indian batters fastest to 7,000 runs in One Day Internationals. This list also includes MS Dhoni, Sourav Ganguly and Sachin Tendulkar

Meet top 5 Indian batters fastest to 7,000 runs in ODIs

India suffered a major setback ahead of the T20I series against the Black Caps, with batter Tilak Varma having undergone surgery for testicular torsion and expected to be sidelined for a few weeks. The five-match T20I series starting on January 21 will be India’s final assignment before they start their World Cup title defence at home. Tilak’s injury has raised serious concerns within the camp, as he is likely to miss the entire series and could also be unavailable for the early phase of upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 preparations.&nbsp;The 23-year-old left-hand batter was in Rajkot, representing Hyderabad in the Vijay Hazare Trophy when he suddenly felt severe pain (acute testicular pain). He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where scans diagnosed him with testicular torsion and doctors recommended immediate surgery. &nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/vijay-hazare-trophy-sarfraz-khan-scripts-history-becomes-fastest-to-achieve-this-record-1767866054137">VHT: Sarfraz Khan scripts history, becomes fastest to achieve THIS record</a>&nbsp;This injury is a major setback for India, as Tilak has been a key player for the team in the T20Is over the past year. He played a crucial role in India’s Asia Cup 2025 win, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 53 balls in the final against Pakistan.&nbsp;&nbsp;He was also the top run-scorer in the recent home series against South Africa, with 187 runs in four innings. His absence will be strongly felt in the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/end-of-bazball-ecb-vows-to-make-necessary-changes-what-it-means-for-mccullum-and-stokes-1767859655345">End of bazball? ECB vows to make ‘necessary changes' in aftermath of Ashes</a><h2>IND vs NZ, T20Is - Full schedule</h2><ul><li>1st T20I: 21 Jan, 2026, at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>2nd T20I: 23 Jan, 2026, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>3rd T20I: 25 Jan, 2026, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>4th T20I: 28 Jan, 2026, at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (7:00 PM IST)</li><li>5th T20I: 31 Jan, 2026, at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram (7:00 PM IST)</li></ul><h2>India’s squad for T20I series against New Zealand</h2>Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (VC), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar and Ishan Kishan (WK)

This injury is a major setback for India, as Tilak has been a key player for the team in the T20Is over the past year. He played a crucial role in India’s Asia Cup 2025 win, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 53 balls in the final against Pakistan. 

India suffered a major setback ahead of the T20I series against the Black Caps, with batter Tilak Varma having undergone surgery for testicular torsion and expected to be sidelined for a few weeks. The five-match T20I series starting on January 21 will be India’s final assignment before they start their World Cup title defence at home. Tilak’s injury has raised serious concerns within the camp, as he is likely to miss the entire series and could also be unavailable for the early phase of upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 preparations. The 23-year-old left-hand batter was in Rajkot, representing Hyderabad in the Vijay Hazare Trophy when he suddenly felt severe pain (acute testicular pain). He was rushed to a nearby hospital, where scans diagnosed him with testicular torsion and doctors recommended immediate surgery. Also Read - VHT: Sarfraz Khan scripts history, becomes fastest to achieve THIS record This injury is a major setback for India, as Tilak has been a key player for the team in the T20Is over the past year. He played a crucial role in India’s Asia Cup 2025 win, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 53 balls in the final against Pakistan. He was also the top run-scorer in the recent home series against South Africa, with 187 runs in four innings. His absence will be strongly felt in the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand. Also Read - End of bazball? ECB vows to make ‘necessary changes' in aftermath of Ashes IND vs NZ, T20Is - Full schedule 1st T20I: 21 Jan, 2026, at Vidarbha Cricket Association Stadium in Nagpur (7:00 PM IST) 2nd T20I: 23 Jan, 2026, at Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur (7:00 PM IST) 3rd T20I: 25 Jan, 2026, at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati (7:00 PM IST) 4th T20I: 28 Jan, 2026, at Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam (7:00 PM IST) 5th T20I: 31 Jan, 2026, at Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram (7:00 PM IST) India’s squad for T20I series against New Zealand Suryakumar Yadav (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel (VC), Rinku Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Washington Sundar and Ishan Kishan (WK)

This injury is a major setback for India, as Tilak has been a key player for the team in the T20Is over the past year. He played a crucial role in India’s Asia Cup 2025 win, scoring an unbeaten 69 off 53 balls in the final against Pakistan.&nbsp;

India batter Tilak Varma undergoes surgery, doubtful for New Zealand series

England’s Test vice-captain Harry Brook is on a final warning by his cricket board (ECB) over an incident involving his brawl with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand before he assumed One-Day captaincy. Ahead of the marquee Ashes, England toured New Zealand for a white-ball series, and just ahead of the ODI opener, Brook found himself in hot water, later feeling ‘deeply sorry’ for that episode. Brook’s statement came shortly after England conceded the away Ashes (1-4) after losing the fifth and final Test in Sydney by five wickets on the fifth day.&nbsp;The Daily Telegraph reported that Brook, the limited-overs skipper and vice-captain of the Test side in Australia, was involved in an altercation with a nightclub bouncer on October 31. England lost to hosts New Zealand the next day in the third ODI in Wellington with Brook scoring six. The 26-year-old Brook was fined £30,000 ($40,000) after reporting the incident to team management and was given a final warning about his behaviour, the newspaper said.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/england-ben-stokes-dismisses-quitting-captaincy-talks-vows-to-turn-wrongs-to-right-after-crushing-ashes-beat-1767849863099">Stokes dismisses quitting captaincy talks, vows to turn ‘wrongs to right’ after crushing Ashes beat</a>&nbsp;"I want to apologise for my actions. I fully accept that my behaviour was wrong and brought embarrassment to both myself and the England team," he said in a statement. “Representing England is the greatest honour of all, which I take seriously and I am deeply sorry for letting down my team-mates, coaches and supporters.”&nbsp;“I am determined to learn from this mistake and to rebuild trust through my future actions, both on and off the field. I apologise unreservedly and will work hard to ensure this does not happen again.”&nbsp;The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has launched an immediate review into the Ashes defeat, with off-field behaviour one of its priorities following a team drinking session during the series.<h3>Brook's first away Ashes</h3>On his first tour of Australia, Brook had plenty of missed chances, for most of which he was to be blamed. The right-handed batter never looked in rhythm during the five contested Tests, barring a couple of innings, where he completed his twin fifties – the joint-most by an Englishman against Australia this time.&nbsp;With 358 runs in 10 innings, at an average of just below 40, Brook is England’s second-highest run getter after Joe Root (400) and third overall.&nbsp;&nbsp;Brook’s next assignment is the away white-ball series against Sri Lanka, after which he will lead England at the 2026 T20 World Cup in the subcontinent. Brook’s England is placed in Group C alongside the West Indies, Nepal, Bangladesh and Italy.&nbsp;&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

The 26-year-old Brook was fined £30,000 ($40,000) after reporting the incident to team management and was given a final warning about his behaviour, the latest report added.

England’s Test vice-captain Harry Brook is on a final warning by his cricket board (ECB) over an incident involving his brawl with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand before he assumed One-Day captaincy. Ahead of the marquee Ashes, England toured New Zealand for a white-ball series, and just ahead of the ODI opener, Brook found himself in hot water, later feeling ‘deeply sorry’ for that episode. Brook’s statement came shortly after England conceded the away Ashes (1-4) after losing the fifth and final Test in Sydney by five wickets on the fifth day. The Daily Telegraph reported that Brook, the limited-overs skipper and vice-captain of the Test side in Australia, was involved in an altercation with a nightclub bouncer on October 31. England lost to hosts New Zealand the next day in the third ODI in Wellington with Brook scoring six. The 26-year-old Brook was fined £30,000 ($40,000) after reporting the incident to team management and was given a final warning about his behaviour, the newspaper said. Also read | Stokes dismisses quitting captaincy talks, vows to turn ‘wrongs to right’ after crushing Ashes beat "I want to apologise for my actions. I fully accept that my behaviour was wrong and brought embarrassment to both myself and the England team," he said in a statement. “Representing England is the greatest honour of all, which I take seriously and I am deeply sorry for letting down my team-mates, coaches and supporters.” “I am determined to learn from this mistake and to rebuild trust through my future actions, both on and off the field. I apologise unreservedly and will work hard to ensure this does not happen again.” The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has launched an immediate review into the Ashes defeat, with off-field behaviour one of its priorities following a team drinking session during the series. Brook's first away Ashes On his first tour of Australia, Brook had plenty of missed chances, for most of which he was to be blamed. The right-handed batter never looked in rhythm during the five contested Tests, barring a couple of innings, where he completed his twin fifties – the joint-most by an Englishman against Australia this time. With 358 runs in 10 innings, at an average of just below 40, Brook is England’s second-highest run getter after Joe Root (400) and third overall. Brook’s next assignment is the away white-ball series against Sri Lanka, after which he will lead England at the 2026 T20 World Cup in the subcontinent. Brook’s England is placed in Group C alongside the West Indies, Nepal, Bangladesh and Italy. (With inputs from AFP)

The 26-year-old Brook was fined £30,000 ($40,000) after reporting the incident to team management and was given a final warning about his behaviour, the latest report added.

Harry Brook on last warning over brawl with nightclub bouncer ahead of Ashes

Ruturaj Gaikwad now has 15 centuries in Vijay Hazare Trophy, India's premier domestic 50-over tournament. His 15 centuries are now the joint-most in the tournament, along with Ankit Bawne's 15 as well.

Ruturaj Gaikwad now has 15 centuries in Vijay Hazare Trophy, India's premier domestic 50-over tournament. His 15 centuries are now the joint-most in the tournament, along with Ankit Bawne's 15 as well.

Ruturaj Gaikwad’s 15th Century in Vijay Hazare Trophy: Breaking records after being dropped from India’s ODI squad for NZ series

Australia retained the urn, beating England 4-1 at home. Barring the batting unit that clicked in the most games, one Aussie bowler impressed throughout, picking up 31 wickets, joining an elite club. Let’s check who all made it.

Australia retained the urn, beating England 4-1 at home. Barring the batting unit that clicked in the most games, one Aussie bowler impressed throughout, picking up 31 wickets, joining an elite club. Let’s check who all made it.

Meet 5 bowlers with most wickets in an Ashes series since 2000

The Ashes 2025-26 is over, and Australia emerged as the winners with a 4-1 scoreline in their favour. Let’s take a look at the top five highest run-scorers in the series, with two Englishmen in the top three.

The Ashes 2025-26 is over, and Australia emerged as the winners with a 4-1 scoreline in their favour. Let’s take a look at the top five highest run-scorers in the series, with two Englishmen in the top three.

Meet 5 batters with most runs in Ashes 2025-26

The Ashes 2025-26 is done and England's hopes of winning the urn Down Under took 1-4 beating. The five-Test series, which had 25 playing days, was decided in just 11 days with five of those coming in the last Test in Sydney. In the aftermath, England Cricket Board (ECB) has launched a full review of the tour. Head coach Brendon McCullum's position, which came under intense scrutiny mid-way in the series, appears to be safe for the time being. Skipper Ben Stokes, who found himself at the wrong end of discussions, has also thrown full backing to the coach.<h2>Ashes aftermath: What ECB, McCullum, and Stokes said</h2>Speaking on the performance of the team, ECB chief executive Richard Gould, in a statement, has assued of making "necessary changes" after the throrough review of England's "tour planning and preparation, individual performance and behaviours, and our ability to adapt and respond effectively as circumstances require."Head coach McCullum, meanwhile, has accepted there are "some areas where you want to keep improving, and some areas where you think you can evolve.""From my point of view, I'll look at it individually and say, 'Right, what could I have done better?' and 'What could I improve on?' Am I for being told what to do? Of course I'm not," he added while talking on BBC.Skipper Stokes, however, has thrown his full support behind the coach. "It's not my decision [but] I'm sure if something ever comes to it, I'll be asked my opinion and he'll be getting my full support and backing," Stokes said.<h2>What next for England?</h2>England's next assignment is white-ball tour of Sri Lanka before they head into the T20 World Cup 2026 which begins February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. McCullum, who has two more years on his contract, is also the white-ball coach and the upcoming ICC event will could be an important one for him.

The five-Test series, which had 25 playing days, was decided in just 11 days with five of those coming in the last Test in Sydney with England losing 1-4, winning only the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.

The Ashes 2025-26 is done and England's hopes of winning the urn Down Under took 1-4 beating. The five-Test series, which had 25 playing days, was decided in just 11 days with five of those coming in the last Test in Sydney. In the aftermath, England Cricket Board (ECB) has launched a full review of the tour. Head coach Brendon McCullum's position, which came under intense scrutiny mid-way in the series, appears to be safe for the time being. Skipper Ben Stokes, who found himself at the wrong end of discussions, has also thrown full backing to the coach. Ashes aftermath: What ECB, McCullum, and Stokes said Speaking on the performance of the team, ECB chief executive Richard Gould, in a statement, has assued of making "necessary changes" after the throrough review of England's "tour planning and preparation, individual performance and behaviours, and our ability to adapt and respond effectively as circumstances require." Head coach McCullum, meanwhile, has accepted there are "some areas where you want to keep improving, and some areas where you think you can evolve." "From my point of view, I'll look at it individually and say, 'Right, what could I have done better?' and 'What could I improve on?' Am I for being told what to do? Of course I'm not," he added while talking on BBC. Skipper Stokes, however, has thrown his full support behind the coach. "It's not my decision [but] I'm sure if something ever comes to it, I'll be asked my opinion and he'll be getting my full support and backing," Stokes said. What next for England? England's next assignment is white-ball tour of Sri Lanka before they head into the T20 World Cup 2026 which begins February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. McCullum, who has two more years on his contract, is also the white-ball coach and the upcoming ICC event will could be an important one for him.

The five-Test series, which had 25 playing days, was decided in just 11 days with five of those coming in the last Test in Sydney with England losing 1-4, winning the only Test in Melbourne.

End of bazball? ECB vows to make ‘necessary changes.’ What it means for McCullum and Stokes

Bangladesh is not ready to settle with ICC’s latest verdict on their request for a venue change at the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. The country’s sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, has doubled down on BCB’s request to move Bangladesh’s league stage matches out of India (to Sri Lanka), citing security concerns. Asif said the BCB would chase the apex body, trying to convince them of the gravity of the issue, related to its players’ safety and ‘country’s dignity’ – something they are unwilling to compromise an inch on.&nbsp;After the ICC rejected BCB’s plea of staging their matches in Sri Lanka, the co-host of the 20-team tournament, Asif said, "Today (on Wednesday), after reading the letter from the ICC, we understand that the ICC doesn't fully realise the scale of the security issue regarding Bangladeshi cricketers in India.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I believe it's not only a matter of security but also that of national humiliation. We are looking at it as a security issue, where the BCCI itself is telling the Kolkata [Knight Riders] team that this player can't be given security, [so] leave him out from your team. This in itself is a tacit recognition that it isn't very safe to play in India,” he added.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/bangladesh-not-first-6-teams-which-refused-to-play-at-allotted-venue-in-an-icc-event-india-australia-wi-nz-england-zimbabwe-1767795019341">Bangladesh not first - 6 teams which refused to play at allotted venue in an ICC event</a> &nbsp;In the now-released ICC schedule, Bangladesh will play their first three league matches in Kolkata before moving south to Mumbai for their last group game. Although there were no concerns around it at the start, it all became an issue after the BCCI instructed the IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, to release Bangladeshi seamer Mustafizur Rahman (bought at the December auction for INR 9.2 crore) over recent chaos in Bangladesh and regular attacks on the minorities. &nbsp;While ‘latest developments’ across the border did hurt the relations between the two countries, not receiving a proper and reasonable explanation (from the BCCI) over Mustafizur’s release irked BCB and cricket fans, which further escalated the situation.&nbsp; &nbsp;The BCB first banned all IPL-related broadcasts in the country before formally writing to the ICC, raising their concerns. Now, while reverting to ICC’s decision, the BCB said they will continue ‘constructive engagement’ to find a solution, also reiterating its intentions not to play in India.&nbsp;&nbsp;"We don't want to say anything about the bigger picture, the communal situation in India," Nazrul said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.&nbsp; &nbsp;"But when it comes to our cricketers' safety, Bangladesh's safety, and Bangladesh's dignity, we won't make any compromise. We want to play cricket, we want to play the World Cup - but we want to play in Sri Lanka, which is the other host country. We are honouring our position on this because we hope we are able to convince the ICC, and that the ICC considers our logic with an open heart, and neutrally, to let us deservingly play in the World Cup. &nbsp;"Whatever happens next, we'll take a stand accordingly. For now, we have taken this stand very clearly that we'll convince the ICC that the atmosphere isn't [right] for us to play in India,” he added.

Bangladesh's sports advisor said the BCB would chase ICC, trying to convince them of the gravity of this issue, related to its players’ safety and ‘country’s dignity’ – something they are unwilling to compromise an inch on.

Bangladesh is not ready to settle with ICC’s latest verdict on their request for a venue change at the upcoming 2026 T20 World Cup. The country’s sports advisor, Asif Nazrul, has doubled down on BCB’s request to move Bangladesh’s league stage matches out of India (to Sri Lanka), citing security concerns. Asif said the BCB would chase the apex body, trying to convince them of the gravity of the issue, related to its players’ safety and ‘country’s dignity’ – something they are unwilling to compromise an inch on. After the ICC rejected BCB’s plea of staging their matches in Sri Lanka, the co-host of the 20-team tournament, Asif said, "Today (on Wednesday), after reading the letter from the ICC, we understand that the ICC doesn't fully realise the scale of the security issue regarding Bangladeshi cricketers in India. "I believe it's not only a matter of security but also that of national humiliation. We are looking at it as a security issue, where the BCCI itself is telling the Kolkata [Knight Riders] team that this player can't be given security, [so] leave him out from your team. This in itself is a tacit recognition that it isn't very safe to play in India,” he added. Also read | Bangladesh not first - 6 teams which refused to play at allotted venue in an ICC event In the now-released ICC schedule, Bangladesh will play their first three league matches in Kolkata before moving south to Mumbai for their last group game. Although there were no concerns around it at the start, it all became an issue after the BCCI instructed the IPL franchise, Kolkata Knight Riders, to release Bangladeshi seamer Mustafizur Rahman (bought at the December auction for INR 9.2 crore) over recent chaos in Bangladesh and regular attacks on the minorities. While ‘latest developments’ across the border did hurt the relations between the two countries, not receiving a proper and reasonable explanation (from the BCCI) over Mustafizur’s release irked BCB and cricket fans, which further escalated the situation. The BCB first banned all IPL-related broadcasts in the country before formally writing to the ICC, raising their concerns. Now, while reverting to ICC’s decision, the BCB said they will continue ‘constructive engagement’ to find a solution, also reiterating its intentions not to play in India. "We don't want to say anything about the bigger picture, the communal situation in India," Nazrul said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. "But when it comes to our cricketers' safety, Bangladesh's safety, and Bangladesh's dignity, we won't make any compromise. We want to play cricket, we want to play the World Cup - but we want to play in Sri Lanka, which is the other host country. We are honouring our position on this because we hope we are able to convince the ICC, and that the ICC considers our logic with an open heart, and neutrally, to let us deservingly play in the World Cup. "Whatever happens next, we'll take a stand accordingly. For now, we have taken this stand very clearly that we'll convince the ICC that the atmosphere isn't [right] for us to play in India,” he added.

Bangladesh's sports advisor said the BCB would chase ICC, trying to convince them of the gravity of this issue, related to its players’ safety and ‘country’s dignity’ – something they are unwilling to compromise an inch on.

‘No compromise with Bangladesh’s dignity,’ BCB on not travelling to India for T20 World Cup

Riding high on Bazball’s success under the leadership of coach Brendon McCullum and Test captain Ben Stokes, England gave themselves the best chance to beat Australia this time; however, what transpired over the past two months exposed the disparity in quality between both teams. While Australia missed most of their first-team bowlers due to respective injuries, England had (at least) all available for selection for the first two Tests, which ended inside six days. England captain Ben Stokes said on Thursday (Jan 8) that there were a lot of "wrongs to put right" after a crushing 4-1 Ashes series defeat to Australia, while also dismissing talks around relinquishing Test captaincy. &nbsp;England arrived for their long tour in November confident of a first series win in Australia since 2010-11. But they quickly imploded, despite facing a depleted attack missing key quicks Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. &nbsp;A two-day defeat in Perth by eight wickets and another by the same margin at the pink-ball clash in Brisbane left them reeling and in the firing line at home. An 82-run loss in Adelaide meant the Ashes were over within three Tests, with England's ultra-aggressive "Bazball" style ruthlessly exposed by the Australian conditions. Stokes, who was a standout for England and intends to carry on as captain, acknowledged they were beaten by the better side. &nbsp;"Australia is a great team, they play incredible cricket, they have some outstanding bowlers, so we have to give them a lot of credit," he said after losing the fifth and final Test in Sydney by five wickets.<h3>‘We could have played much better’</h3>England at least won the fourth Test in Melbourne to avoid a whitewash.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/weakest-australian-team-beat-strongest-english-side-internet-reacts-to-ashes-2025-26-result-1767848793836">‘Weakest’ Australian team beat ‘strongest’ English side: Internet reacts to Ashes result</a> &nbsp;"We could have played much better than what we did," Stokes added. "The time for reflection is not right now. We've got a long time away to reflect on it. Come June, when we next play (Tests), hopefully we can put the wrongs right." &nbsp;Despite the bitter series defeat, there were some bright lights for England, who lost fast bowlers Mark Wood, Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson to injury at various points. Seamer Josh Tongue came in and was admirable, while 22-year-old Jacob Bethell produced a magnificent 154 in Sydney after replacing the out-of-form Ollie Pope. &nbsp;"Incredible for Beth to get his opportunity in the last game of the series," said Stokes. "To come out in the fifth game of the series and the way he batted was a terrific effort. &nbsp;“Josh also put in his best and bowled really well, so we have good talents coming through.” &nbsp;England will face an inquisition when they get home, with coach Brendon McCullum's job in the spotlight. Stokes said he had no thoughts of relinquishing the captaincy, replying "absolutely" when asked if he was keen to carry on. &nbsp;"I have been in this role for four years now, and it has been a consistent team," he told the BBC. “I have a group of men that I have helped to find levels of ability to unlock. We need to put more pressure on everyone's shoulders.” &nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Ben Stokes dismissed talks around relinquishing Test captaincy after a crushing Ashes defeat but vowed to turn more ‘wrongs into right’. 

Riding high on Bazball’s success under the leadership of coach Brendon McCullum and Test captain Ben Stokes, England gave themselves the best chance to beat Australia this time; however, what transpired over the past two months exposed the disparity in quality between both teams. While Australia missed most of their first-team bowlers due to respective injuries, England had (at least) all available for selection for the first two Tests, which ended inside six days. England captain Ben Stokes said on Thursday (Jan 8) that there were a lot of "wrongs to put right" after a crushing 4-1 Ashes series defeat to Australia, while also dismissing talks around relinquishing Test captaincy. England arrived for their long tour in November confident of a first series win in Australia since 2010-11. But they quickly imploded, despite facing a depleted attack missing key quicks Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. A two-day defeat in Perth by eight wickets and another by the same margin at the pink-ball clash in Brisbane left them reeling and in the firing line at home. An 82-run loss in Adelaide meant the Ashes were over within three Tests, with England's ultra-aggressive "Bazball" style ruthlessly exposed by the Australian conditions. Stokes, who was a standout for England and intends to carry on as captain, acknowledged they were beaten by the better side. "Australia is a great team, they play incredible cricket, they have some outstanding bowlers, so we have to give them a lot of credit," he said after losing the fifth and final Test in Sydney by five wickets. ‘We could have played much better’ England at least won the fourth Test in Melbourne to avoid a whitewash. Also read | ‘Weakest’ Australian team beat ‘strongest’ English side: Internet reacts to Ashes result "We could have played much better than what we did," Stokes added. "The time for reflection is not right now. We've got a long time away to reflect on it. Come June, when we next play (Tests), hopefully we can put the wrongs right." Despite the bitter series defeat, there were some bright lights for England, who lost fast bowlers Mark Wood, Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson to injury at various points. Seamer Josh Tongue came in and was admirable, while 22-year-old Jacob Bethell produced a magnificent 154 in Sydney after replacing the out-of-form Ollie Pope. "Incredible for Beth to get his opportunity in the last game of the series," said Stokes. "To come out in the fifth game of the series and the way he batted was a terrific effort. “Josh also put in his best and bowled really well, so we have good talents coming through.” England will face an inquisition when they get home, with coach Brendon McCullum's job in the spotlight. Stokes said he had no thoughts of relinquishing the captaincy, replying "absolutely" when asked if he was keen to carry on. "I have been in this role for four years now, and it has been a consistent team," he told the BBC. “I have a group of men that I have helped to find levels of ability to unlock. We need to put more pressure on everyone's shoulders.” (With inputs from AFP)

Ben Stokes dismissed talks around relinquishing Test captaincy after a crushing Ashes defeat but vowed to turn more ‘wrongs into right’.&nbsp;

Stokes dismisses quitting captaincy talks, vows to turn ‘wrongs to right’ after crushing Ashes beat

A lot was said ahead of the just-concluded Ashes, with former England great Stuart Broad calling this Australian side the ‘weakest’ unit assembled in over a decade, while dictating how good the touring English team under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes was. The result – Australia thrashed England 4-1 to retain the urn. Despite England having all the players they wanted on this tour Down Under, they failed to deliver their promise of a series win in Australia in 15 years. However, the best they could do was to end their 18-match losing streak on the Aussie soil with their Boxing Day Test wins inside six sessions.&nbsp;Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-england-in-sydney-test-to-win-ashes-alex-carey-hits-winning-runs-usman-khawaja-bows-out-in-style-1767844083696">Australia beat England in Sydney Test to win Ashes; Carey hits winning runs, Khawaja bows out in style</a>&nbsp;From Travis Head to Mitchell Starc, the Aussies were all over this English side, leading them in almost every facet of the game in this series.&nbsp;Australia, however, was without its regular Test captain, Pat Cummins, in four of the five contested Tests, seamer Josh Hazlewood (in four Tests) and Nathan Lyon for the remaining two. And despite not having their premier and first-team bowlers, they emerged victorious, leaving England Cricket and its future in the mud. &nbsp;The fifth Test at the SCG concluded on the final day, with Australia chasing 160 with five wickets remaining. Alex Carey hit the winning runs, while Usman Khawaja, playing his final Test for Australia, bowed out with a series win. Although he failed to perform across both innings, getting out cheaply, he admitted feeling emotional for the last time representing his country.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">A special Guard of Honour for Usman Khawaja in his final Test appearance 🤍<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WTC27?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WTC27</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/AUSvENG?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#AUSvENG</a> ✍️: <a href="https://t.co/DNZFYNmPsd">https://t.co/DNZFYNmPsd</a> <a href="https://t.co/FGsAWqcJeA">pic.twitter.com/FGsAWqcJeA</a>&mdash; ICC (@ICC) <a href="https://twitter.com/ICC/status/2009120980330008996?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Also Read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/aus-vs-eng-scg-test-usman-khawaja-retirement-bows-out-with-ashes-victory-in-final-appearance-1767846440835">‘Grateful for one last win,’ Emotional Khawaja bows out with Ashes victory in final appearance</a>&nbsp;The stand-in captain Steve Smith scored his 37th Test hundred in the first inning, but could manage only 12 in the second. Carey, who made a wicket-keeping record for the second-highest dismissals in an Ashes series (28), finished the five-series as the fourth-highest run-getter (323 in eight innings).<h3>Here, let’s check out how the internet reacted to Australia’s crushing win over England.</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">4-1. It’s quite a scoreline for the ‘weakest’ Australian team that took on the ‘strongest’ English team to play The Ashes on Australian soil. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/TheAshes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#TheAshes</a>&mdash; Aakash Chopra (@cricketaakash) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketaakash/status/2009109002022707249?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Not the most memorable Ashes series. But Australia have shown, again, why winning there will always be a high point for opposition teams. I had England ahead before the series and as they look back, they will regard this as an opportunity lost. They had to take 20 wickets to win,…&mdash; Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) <a href="https://twitter.com/bhogleharsha/status/2009114397051072531?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">England had so many chances in this series but fundamentally they have lost to a better cricket team .. Not the highest quality series I have seen but it’s been very entertaining .. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a>&mdash; Michael Vaughan (@MichaelVaughan) <a href="https://twitter.com/MichaelVaughan/status/2009105499204223442?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Australia win the Ashes 4-1 without Cummins( played 1 test ), Hazlewood and Lyon. Well done Australia👏👏 Congratulations to <a href="https://twitter.com/Uz_Khawaja?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Uz_Khawaja</a> on a wonderful career👏👏 There were glimpses of brilliance from England, but not enough to compete or win a test series down under. Loads…&mdash; Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) <a href="https://twitter.com/ashwinravi99/status/2009106349360369933?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Despite not having most of their first-team bowlers for all Ashes matches this time, Australia beat England 4-1.

A lot was said ahead of the just-concluded Ashes, with former England great Stuart Broad calling this Australian side the ‘weakest’ unit assembled in over a decade, while dictating how good the touring English team under Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes was. The result – Australia thrashed England 4-1 to retain the urn. Despite England having all the players they wanted on this tour Down Under, they failed to deliver their promise of a series win in Australia in 15 years. However, the best they could do was to end their 18-match losing streak on the Aussie soil with their Boxing Day Test wins inside six sessions. Also Read | Australia beat England in Sydney Test to win Ashes; Carey hits winning runs, Khawaja bows out in style From Travis Head to Mitchell Starc, the Aussies were all over this English side, leading them in almost every facet of the game in this series. Australia, however, was without its regular Test captain, Pat Cummins, in four of the five contested Tests, seamer Josh Hazlewood (in four Tests) and Nathan Lyon for the remaining two. And despite not having their premier and first-team bowlers, they emerged victorious, leaving England Cricket and its future in the mud. The fifth Test at the SCG concluded on the final day, with Australia chasing 160 with five wickets remaining. Alex Carey hit the winning runs, while Usman Khawaja, playing his final Test for Australia, bowed out with a series win. Although he failed to perform across both innings, getting out cheaply, he admitted feeling emotional for the last time representing his country.

Despite not having most of their first-team bowlers for all Ashes matches this time, Australia beat England 4-1.

‘Weakest’ Australian team beat ‘strongest’ English side: Internet reacts to Ashes result

Usman Khawaja hogged all the limelight on the final day of the just-concluded fifth Ashes Test in Sydney as he appeared for the last time in whites for Australia. 15 years since making his Test debut at the very venue against the same opponents, Khawaja made himself and his country proud with significant performances over the years, including several match-winning hundreds in the most challenging conditions.&nbsp;Khawaja, however, admitted he found it hard to control his emotions after playing the final Test of a distinguished 88-Test career on Thursday (Jan 8). The 39-year-old was given a guard of honour by the England players when he walked out to bat for the final time at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), with visiting captain Ben Stokes shaking his hand.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/australia-beat-england-in-sydney-test-to-win-ashes-alex-carey-hits-winning-runs-usman-khawaja-bows-out-in-style-1767844083696">Australia beat England in Sydney Test to win Ashes; Carey hits winning runs, Khawaja bows out in style</a> &nbsp;His farewell did not go as planned, out for six in the fifth Ashes Test, but Khawaja said it was a memorable occasion after a decorated 15-year career and more than 6,000 runs.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Thanks, Uzzy ❤️ <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> <a href="https://t.co/h9HPM4arJy">pic.twitter.com/h9HPM4arJy</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2009095208936317376?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

"It means a lot. The only thing I wanted was a win," he said on Fox Sports after Australia won the final Ashes Test by five wickets to seal the series 4-1. "Grateful for the one last final win and to celebrate with my teammates.&nbsp;"It was very tough, I was trying to act cool, but the whole Test match I found it really hard to control my emotions. I found it hard to concentrate. &nbsp;"I'm glad that we got over the line, and it's something I'll cherish for the rest of my life. I can just relax now." &nbsp;It culminated a career where it began after Khawaja made his debut at the SCG in 2011, also against England. Khawaja immigrated to Australia from Islamabad as a child, overcoming the odds to become the country's first Pakistan-born and first Muslim national player. At one point, he was the only Asian first-class player in Australia and is credited as a role model who opened doors for others.&nbsp;Khawaja, a qualified pilot, plundered 16 centuries, averaging more than 43. He also played 40 one-dayers and nine Twenty20 internationals.&nbsp;"Some people have lost family, I am lucky my parents are still around. My family, my wife, my kids and another one on the way," he said. "I love the game of cricket, but life outside cricket has been more important.&nbsp;"Few dicey runs there with a little bit of pressure, but we got the job done in the end."&nbsp;(With inputs from AFP)

Khawaja scored just six on his final appearance for Australia, with the hosts walking off with a win in the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney, winning the series 4-1.

Usman Khawaja hogged all the limelight on the final day of the just-concluded fifth Ashes Test in Sydney as he appeared for the last time in whites for Australia. 15 years since making his Test debut at the very venue against the same opponents, Khawaja made himself and his country proud with significant performances over the years, including several match-winning hundreds in the most challenging conditions. Khawaja, however, admitted he found it hard to control his emotions after playing the final Test of a distinguished 88-Test career on Thursday (Jan 8). The 39-year-old was given a guard of honour by the England players when he walked out to bat for the final time at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG), with visiting captain Ben Stokes shaking his hand. Also read | Australia beat England in Sydney Test to win Ashes; Carey hits winning runs, Khawaja bows out in style His farewell did not go as planned, out for six in the fifth Ashes Test, but Khawaja said it was a memorable occasion after a decorated 15-year career and more than 6,000 runs.

Khawaja scored just six on his final appearance for Australia, with the hosts walking off with a win in the fifth Ashes Test in Sydney, winning the series 4-1.

‘Grateful for one last win,’ Emotional Khawaja bows out with Ashes victory in final appearance

Alex Carey hit the winning runs to see Australia home in the fifth and final Ashes Test against England in Sydney by five wickets. Chasing 160 on day five at the SCG, Australia lost five wickets, including batter Usman Khawaja - playing his final match in the whites before Carey and Cameron Green completed the chase, helping the hosts inflict another series defeat on England. Coming off a successful outcome at the MCG, where they ended their 18-match losing streak in Australia, England failed to make the most of the momentum despite Jacob Bethell’s monstrous hundred in the second innings.&nbsp;England began day two on 302 for eight, leading by 119 runs, with Bethell, unbeaten on 142, at the crease. The rookie batter made headlines for his maiden Test hundred, which also happens to be his first First-Class ton on day four, keeping England afloat amid a late collapse. He added 12 more to his overnight tally, completing his first 150-plus score in the whites before edging one off Mitchell Starc. Seamer Josh Tongue was the last one to be dismissed as England got all out on 342, setting Australia a 160-run target.&nbsp;Travis Head, the highest run-scorer this series, stitched an almost run-a-ball 62-run stand with Jake Weatherald before getting out to Tongue on 29. England’s best bowler this summer then accounted for his opening partner just before lunch on day five.&nbsp;In Pics | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/opening-batters-with-500-runs-in-one-ashes-series-since-2000-head-cook-vaughan-warner-1767786504037/1767786504040">Travis Head joins list of openers with 500-plus runs in one Ashes series since 2000. Only three more batters are in list</a>&nbsp;Veteran Steve Smith, who scored his 37th Test hundred in the first innings, was the next to follow, getting bowled off part-timer Will Jacks on a rare 12. Walked in next was Khawaja, playing his final Test for Australia, with England giving him a guard of honour. The left-hander, however, failed once again at the venue where he made his Test debut 15 years ago (in 2011) against the same opponents, as he inside-edged one to the stumps on just six.&nbsp;

Just when Australia thought they still had a chance of delivering the winning punch, a mix-up in the middle cost Marnus Labuschagne his wicket on 32 (just two runs later), with Australia five down on 121.&nbsp;Carey and Green ensured Australia walked away without any hiccups, adding 40 runs for the sixth wicket to seal a comfortable victory for Australia.<h3>Watch the winning moment -</h3>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Alex Carey scores the winning runs as Australia claims a 4-1 series win.<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/PlayoftheDay?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#PlayoftheDay</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/nrmainsurance?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@nrmainsurance</a> <a href="https://t.co/SfFwXWibrn">pic.twitter.com/SfFwXWibrn</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2009106635562635419?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 8, 2026</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

For the hosts, Head topped the runs chart with 629 runs in ten innings, averaging 62.90; ace quick Mitchell Starc returned with the most wickets (31) in five Tests at a bowling average of 19.94, including two five-wicket hauls.

Australia retained the urn as they inflicted a 4-1 series defeat on the touring England Team during the home Ashes.

Alex Carey hit the winning runs to see Australia home in the fifth and final Ashes Test against England in Sydney by five wickets. Chasing 160 on day five at the SCG, Australia lost five wickets, including batter Usman Khawaja - playing his final match in the whites before Carey and Cameron Green completed the chase, helping the hosts inflict another series defeat on England. Coming off a successful outcome at the MCG, where they ended their 18-match losing streak in Australia, England failed to make the most of the momentum despite Jacob Bethell’s monstrous hundred in the second innings. England began day two on 302 for eight, leading by 119 runs, with Bethell, unbeaten on 142, at the crease. The rookie batter made headlines for his maiden Test hundred, which also happens to be his first First-Class ton on day four, keeping England afloat amid a late collapse. He added 12 more to his overnight tally, completing his first 150-plus score in the whites before edging one off Mitchell Starc. Seamer Josh Tongue was the last one to be dismissed as England got all out on 342, setting Australia a 160-run target. Travis Head, the highest run-scorer this series, stitched an almost run-a-ball 62-run stand with Jake Weatherald before getting out to Tongue on 29. England’s best bowler this summer then accounted for his opening partner just before lunch on day five. In Pics | Travis Head joins list of openers with 500-plus runs in one Ashes series since 2000. Only three more batters are in list Veteran Steve Smith, who scored his 37th Test hundred in the first innings, was the next to follow, getting bowled off part-timer Will Jacks on a rare 12. Walked in next was Khawaja, playing his final Test for Australia, with England giving him a guard of honour. The left-hander, however, failed once again at the venue where he made his Test debut 15 years ago (in 2011) against the same opponents, as he inside-edged one to the stumps on just six.

Australia retained the urn as they inflicted a 4-1 series defeat on the touring England Team during the home Ashes.

Australia beat England in Sydney Test to win Ashes; Carey hits winning runs, Khawaja bows out in style

The ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) are in talks over latter's refusal to play the group stage matches of upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 in India. Bangladesh has cited players' safety and well-being as the main concern behind their request. This is, however, not the first time when a team has refused to play at a given venue in an ICC event. In the past, teams like India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia &amp; West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England &amp; New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) had done same as well.<h2>Bangladesh in talks with ICC after refusing to play in India in T20 World Cup 2026</h2>The situation with Bangladesh arose after removal of bowler Mustafizur Rahman from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad after being bought at IPL 2026 auction for INR 9.2 crore. In retaliation, Bangladesh not only stopped the broadcast of IPL in the country for indefinite period but also rasied a request to ICC to changes their venues for the group stage matches in T20 World Cup 2026. Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs West Indies), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal).<h2>Australia and West Indies refuse to play in Sri Lanka in 1996 ODI World Cup</h2>Australia and West Indies refused to travel to Sri Lanka for the 1996 ODI World Cup matches. The tournament was co-hosted by Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India together. The teams refused because of the civil war and a bomb explosion in Sri Lanka which preceeded the tournament. The two teams had to forfeit matches and give points to Sri Lanka which eventually won the tournament - their maiden and the only one till date.<h2>England and New Zealand refuse to travel to Zimbabwe and Kenya in 2003 ODI World Cup</h2>In 2003 ODI World Cup, England refused to travel to Zimbabwe and New Zealand decided against going to Kenya. The tournament was hosted in Africa - by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. England's reason was the then Tony Blair-led govenement's stance against erstwhile Zimbabwe administration led by Robert Mugabe. The Kiwis, on the other hand, refused to go to Nairobi because of a bombing a few months earlier. Both, England and New Zealand, gave walkover to their respective opponenents.<h2>Zimbabwe withdraw from 2009 T20 World Cup in England</h2>The diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and England had not improved and the former eventually withdrew from the 2009 T20 World Cup hosted by England. Scotland were roped as a replacement but Zimbabwe still received their full participation fees.<h2>India refuse to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025</h2>India, in March 2025, refused to go to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 because of the strained political situation between the two countries. India's matches were eventually hosted in Dubai, UAE and they also went on to win the tournament.

In the past, teams like India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia & West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England & New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) have refused to play their matches at an allotted venue in an ICC event.

The ICC and the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) are in talks over latter's refusal to play the group stage matches of upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 in India. Bangladesh has cited players' safety and well-being as the main concern behind their request. This is, however, not the first time when a team has refused to play at a given venue in an ICC event. In the past, teams like India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia & West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England & New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) had done same as well. Bangladesh in talks with ICC after refusing to play in India in T20 World Cup 2026 The situation with Bangladesh arose after removal of bowler Mustafizur Rahman from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad after being bought at IPL 2026 auction for INR 9.2 crore. In retaliation, Bangladesh not only stopped the broadcast of IPL in the country for indefinite period but also rasied a request to ICC to changes their venues for the group stage matches in T20 World Cup 2026. Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three group matches in Kolkata on February 7 (vs West Indies), February 9 (vs Italy) and February 14 (vs England) before the final match in Mumbai on February 17 (vs Nepal). Australia and West Indies refuse to play in Sri Lanka in 1996 ODI World Cup Australia and West Indies refused to travel to Sri Lanka for the 1996 ODI World Cup matches. The tournament was co-hosted by Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India together. The teams refused because of the civil war and a bomb explosion in Sri Lanka which preceeded the tournament. The two teams had to forfeit matches and give points to Sri Lanka which eventually won the tournament - their maiden and the only one till date. England and New Zealand refuse to travel to Zimbabwe and Kenya in 2003 ODI World Cup In 2003 ODI World Cup, England refused to travel to Zimbabwe and New Zealand decided against going to Kenya. The tournament was hosted in Africa - by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Kenya. England's reason was the then Tony Blair-led govenement's stance against erstwhile Zimbabwe administration led by Robert Mugabe. The Kiwis, on the other hand, refused to go to Nairobi because of a bombing a few months earlier. Both, England and New Zealand, gave walkover to their respective opponenents. Zimbabwe withdraw from 2009 T20 World Cup in England The diplomatic relations between Zimbabwe and England had not improved and the former eventually withdrew from the 2009 T20 World Cup hosted by England. Scotland were roped as a replacement but Zimbabwe still received their full participation fees. India refuse to travel to Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025 India, in March 2025, refused to go to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy 2025 because of the strained political situation between the two countries. India's matches were eventually hosted in Dubai, UAE and they also went on to win the tournament.

In the past, teams like India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia &amp; West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England &amp; New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) have refused to play their matches at an allotted venue in an ICC event.

Bangladesh not first - 6 teams which refused to play at allotted venue in an ICC event

India’s men’s cricket team will begin their 2026 season with a series of limited-overs matches against New Zealand, starting on January 11. Soon after, they will turn their attention to the T20 World Cup in February. As defending champions, India will start their World Cup journey on February 7 in Mumbai. Once the World Cup ends and the IPL 2026 takes place, India will focus more on ODI and Test cricket. Their long-term goals will include preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup and qualifying for the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship final.&nbsp;As per the ICC’s Future Tours Programme, India are scheduled to play 49 bilateral matches across formats in 2026. This total does not include a planned tour of Bangladesh, which has been postponed due to ongoing political and social issues between the two countries.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ind-vs-nz-odi-series-shreyas-iyer-set-to-international-return-from-clearance-from-bcci-team-report-1767797437484">Shreyas Iyer set to international return from clearance from BCCI team - Report</a>&nbsp;India will play 18 ODIs starting from January 11. Among these are three ODIs against Afghanistan in June after the IPL, though exact details are yet to be confirmed. The team will also tour England for three ODIs in July, followed by six matches against West Indies and Sri Lanka later in the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;In October, India will once again face New Zealand in a three-match ODI series during their tour. With their recent Test form being a concern, the team led by Shubman Gill will look to strengthen their position in the World Test Championship. They will play two Tests in Sri Lanka in August and another two Tests in New Zealand later in the year.&nbsp;In total, India will also play 20 T20 internationals in 2026. The season will conclude in early 2027 with a home Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series against Australia.&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/why-travis-head-said-beggars-can-t-be-choosers-after-being-asked-about-test-double-hundreds-1767792101687">Head says 'beggars can't be choosers' on being reminded about no Test double ton</a><h2>India Men’s Cricket Schedule in 2026 - Full List</h2>

<figure class="table"><table><tbody><tr><td>Jan 2026</td><td>New Zealand tour of India</td><td>India</td><td>3 ODIs, 5 T20Is</td></tr><tr><td>Jun 2026</td><td>Afghanistan tour of India</td><td>India</td><td>1 Test, 3 ODIs</td></tr><tr><td>Jul 2026</td><td>England tour of India</td><td>India</td><td>3 ODIs, 5 T20Is</td></tr><tr><td>Aug 2026</td><td>India tour of Sri Lanka</td><td>Sri Lanka</td><td>2 Tests</td></tr><tr><td>Sep 2026</td><td>India tour of Afghanistan</td><td>Afghanistan</td><td>3 T20</td></tr><tr><td>Sep-Oct 2026</td><td>West Indies tour of India</td><td>India</td><td>3 ODIs, 5 T20Is</td></tr><tr><td>Oct-Nov 2026</td><td>India tour of New Zealand</td><td>New Zealand</td><td>2 Test, 3 ODI, 5 T20Is</td></tr><tr><td>Dec 2026</td><td>Sri Lanka tour of India</td><td>India</td><td>3 ODIs, 3 T20Is</td></tr></tbody></table></figure>

As per the ICC’s Future Tours Programme, India are scheduled to play 49 bilateral matches across formats in 2026. 

India’s men’s cricket team will begin their 2026 season with a series of limited-overs matches against New Zealand, starting on January 11. Soon after, they will turn their attention to the T20 World Cup in February. As defending champions, India will start their World Cup journey on February 7 in Mumbai. Once the World Cup ends and the IPL 2026 takes place, India will focus more on ODI and Test cricket. Their long-term goals will include preparation for the 2027 ODI World Cup and qualifying for the 2025-27 ICC World Test Championship final. As per the ICC’s Future Tours Programme, India are scheduled to play 49 bilateral matches across formats in 2026. This total does not include a planned tour of Bangladesh, which has been postponed due to ongoing political and social issues between the two countries. Also Read - Shreyas Iyer set to international return from clearance from BCCI team - Report India will play 18 ODIs starting from January 11. Among these are three ODIs against Afghanistan in June after the IPL, though exact details are yet to be confirmed. The team will also tour England for three ODIs in July, followed by six matches against West Indies and Sri Lanka later in the year. In October, India will once again face New Zealand in a three-match ODI series during their tour. With their recent Test form being a concern, the team led by Shubman Gill will look to strengthen their position in the World Test Championship. They will play two Tests in Sri Lanka in August and another two Tests in New Zealand later in the year. In total, India will also play 20 T20 internationals in 2026. The season will conclude in early 2027 with a home Border-Gavaskar Trophy Test series against Australia. Also Read - Head says 'beggars can't be choosers' on being reminded about no Test double ton India Men’s Cricket Schedule in 2026 - Full List

As per the ICC’s Future Tours Programme, India are scheduled to play 49 bilateral matches across formats in 2026.&nbsp;

India cricket schedule 2026: Complete ODI, Test and T20I fixtures for the Men in Blue

India’s ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer has been declared fit by the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), opening the door for his return to international cricket and the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting on January 11 in Vadodara. The Mumbai batter was sidelined after suffering a spleen injury during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney in October last year. Although he was named in India’s 15-member squad for the New Zealand series on January 3, his participation was subject to medical clearance.&nbsp;Iyer returned to action on January 6, captaining Mumbai in a Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 match against Himachal Pradesh. He made a strong comeback, scoring a quick 82 off 53 balls, including 10 fours and three sixes. He was initially expected to play another domestic game against Punjab on January 8 before getting final clearance. However, the medical team was pleased with his recovery and fitness and cleared him earlier than planned, as per various media reports.&nbsp;<h2>Iyer's ODI record against New Zealand&nbsp;</h2>Iyer has an excellent record against New Zealand in One Day Internationals. In 10 matches, he has scored 611 runs in nine innings at an average of 67.88 and a strike rate close to 98. His tally also includes four half-centuries and two hundreds.<h2>Iyer's overall ODI stats</h2>Overall, Iyer has played 73 ODIs for India and scored 2,917 runs at an average of 47.81 and a strike rate of 99.01. His tally also includes 23 fifties and five centuries, with his best score being an unbeaten 128 against the Netherlands during the 2023 ODI World Cup in Bengaluru.<h2>IND vs NZ, ODIs - Full schedule</h2><ul><li>1st ODI: Sunday, 11 Jan – Vadodara</li><li>2nd ODI: Wednesday, 14 Jan – Rajkot</li><li>3rd ODI: Sunday, 18 Jan – Indore</li></ul><h2>India’s squad for ODI series against New Zealand</h2>Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Shreyas Iyer (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal

India will face New Zealand in a three-match ODI series and a five-match T20I series starting on January 11. In the ODI format, attention will again be on former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who are set to make a comeback after strong performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. 

India’s ODI vice-captain Shreyas Iyer has been declared fit by the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), opening the door for his return to international cricket and the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting on January 11 in Vadodara. The Mumbai batter was sidelined after suffering a spleen injury during the third ODI against Australia in Sydney in October last year. Although he was named in India’s 15-member squad for the New Zealand series on January 3, his participation was subject to medical clearance. Iyer returned to action on January 6, captaining Mumbai in a Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 match against Himachal Pradesh. He made a strong comeback, scoring a quick 82 off 53 balls, including 10 fours and three sixes. He was initially expected to play another domestic game against Punjab on January 8 before getting final clearance. However, the medical team was pleased with his recovery and fitness and cleared him earlier than planned, as per various media reports. Iyer's ODI record against New Zealand Iyer has an excellent record against New Zealand in One Day Internationals. In 10 matches, he has scored 611 runs in nine innings at an average of 67.88 and a strike rate close to 98. His tally also includes four half-centuries and two hundreds. Iyer's overall ODI stats Overall, Iyer has played 73 ODIs for India and scored 2,917 runs at an average of 47.81 and a strike rate of 99.01. His tally also includes 23 fifties and five centuries, with his best score being an unbeaten 128 against the Netherlands during the 2023 ODI World Cup in Bengaluru. IND vs NZ, ODIs - Full schedule 1st ODI: Sunday, 11 Jan – Vadodara 2nd ODI: Wednesday, 14 Jan – Rajkot 3rd ODI: Sunday, 18 Jan – Indore India’s squad for ODI series against New Zealand Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, KL Rahul (WK), Shreyas Iyer (VC), Washington Sundar, Ravindra Jadeja, Mohd Siraj, Harshit Rana, Prasidh Krishna, Kuldeep Yadav, Rishabh Pant (WK), Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh and Yashasvi Jaiswal

India will face New Zealand in a three-match ODI series and a five-match T20I series starting on January 11. In the ODI format, attention will again be on former captains Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who are set to make a comeback after strong performances in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.&nbsp;

IND vs NZ, ODI series: Shreyas Iyer set to international return from clearance from BCCI team - Report

India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia & West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England & New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) have refused to play their matches at an allotted venue in an ICC event.

India (2025 Champions Trophy), Australia &amp; West Indies (1996 ODI World Cup), England &amp; New Zealand (2003 ODI World Cup), and Zimbabwe (2009 T20 World Cup) have refused to play their matches at an allotted venue in an ICC event.

Before Bangladesh THESE 6 teams refused to play at allotted venue in an ICC event

Aussie Travis Head is enjoying the form of his life in ongoing Ashes 2025-26 series with three hundreds and 600 runs in nine innings of five Tests. There one more innings left for Australia to bat and Head can very much become the first Aussie opener to score 600 runs in a single Ashes since 2000. The batter also has hit three hundred in the series with two of them being 150-plus. His 163 in the first innings of Ashes Test was his 7th 150-plus Test score but the dashing batter still hasn't scored a single double ton to which he says: 'Beggers can’t be choosers.'<h2>Head speaks on not scoring a Test double ton</h2>After scoring 163 in Sydney, Head was told by reporters that he has seven 150-plus Test scores but not a single double hundred, to which he replied with a laugh: "Beggars can’t be choosers. It’s a pretty s**t stat, isn’t it. I’d much rather 160 or 170 than zero to 10. I won’t complain about that."Head was the makeshift opener for Australia after Usman Khawaja suffered back spasm and could not open in the first Test in Perth. Head came and scored 123 in the second innings, helping Australia win and has been the opener for the series thereon.Also Watch - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rohit-sharma-video-india-batter-gets-vada-pav-offer-by-fans-druing-practice-session-ahead-of-nz-series-watch-1767780915585">Rohit gets 'vada pav' offer by fans during practice session</a><h2>Head joins elite list of openers</h2>Head has scored 579 of his 600 runs as an opener in the series. His runs came at an average of 72 with three tons and a best of 170. He <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/opening-batters-with-500-runs-in-one-ashes-series-since-2000-head-cook-vaughan-warner-1767786504037/1767786504042">can very well become only the third opener</a> to score 600 or more runs in one Ashes series since 2000. Only Alastair Cook (in Ashes 2010/11) and Michael Vaughan (in Ashes 2002/03) have achieved the milestone. He'll also be the first Aussie to reach the landmark if he score 21 runs in Australia's second innings in the onoing Sydney Test.

After scoring 163 in Sydney, Head was told by reporters that he has seven 150-plus Test scores but not a single double hundred, to which he replied with a laugh: “Beggars can’t be choosers.”

Aussie Travis Head is enjoying the form of his life in ongoing Ashes 2025-26 series with three hundreds and 600 runs in nine innings of five Tests. There one more innings left for Australia to bat and Head can very much become the first Aussie opener to score 600 runs in a single Ashes since 2000. The batter also has hit three hundred in the series with two of them being 150-plus. His 163 in the first innings of Ashes Test was his 7th 150-plus Test score but the dashing batter still hasn't scored a single double ton to which he says: 'Beggers can’t be choosers.' Head speaks on not scoring a Test double ton After scoring 163 in Sydney, Head was told by reporters that he has seven 150-plus Test scores but not a single double hundred, to which he replied with a laugh: "Beggars can’t be choosers. It’s a pretty s**t stat, isn’t it. I’d much rather 160 or 170 than zero to 10. I won’t complain about that." Head was the makeshift opener for Australia after Usman Khawaja suffered back spasm and could not open in the first Test in Perth. Head came and scored 123 in the second innings, helping Australia win and has been the opener for the series thereon. Also Watch - Rohit gets 'vada pav' offer by fans during practice session Head joins elite list of openers Head has scored 579 of his 600 runs as an opener in the series. His runs came at an average of 72 with three tons and a best of 170. He can very well become only the third opener to score 600 or more runs in one Ashes series since 2000. Only Alastair Cook (in Ashes 2010/11) and Michael Vaughan (in Ashes 2002/03) have achieved the milestone. He'll also be the first Aussie to reach the landmark if he score 21 runs in Australia's second innings in the onoing Sydney Test.

After scoring 163 in Sydney, Head was told by reporters that he has seven 150-plus Test scores but not a single double hundred, to which he replied with a laugh: “Beggars can’t be choosers.”

Travis Head says 'beggars can't be choosers' on being reminded about no Test double hundred

Arjun Tendulkar, son of master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, is all set to take a big step in his personal life. Reports confirm that he will marry his fiancee, Saaniya Chandhok, with the wedding celebrations scheduled for March 5, 2026. The couple had a secret engagement in August 2025, attended only by close family members. Sachin Tendulkar later confirmed the engagement during a Reddit AMA, saying, “Yes, he did, and we are all very excited for the new phase in his life.”&nbsp;The wedding is expected to be an intimate affair in Mumbai, with a carefully curated guest list including family, close friends, and select members of the cricketing community. While the world will watch, the celebrations are likely to remain private, ensuring a personal and memorable experience for the couple.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-ocean-of-fans-greets-virat-kohli-at-vadodara-airport-on-his-arrival-1767781370413">WATCH: Ocean of fans surround Virat Kohli at Vadodara airport on his arrival</a>&nbsp;Saaniya Chandhok is a successful entrepreneur and comes from a prominent family. She is the granddaughter of well-known Mumbai businessman Ravi Ghai. Over the years, she has reportedly been a close part of the Tendulkar family’s inner circle.&nbsp;On the cricketing front, Arjun has been steadily making his mark. He began his domestic career with Mumbai before moving to Goa, where he established himself as a talented left-arm fast bowler and capable lower-order batsman. In a remarkable debut in the Ranji Trophy in 2022, Arjun scored a century in his first first-class match, echoing his father’s achievement of reaching three figures in his maiden outing.&nbsp;Arjun recently moved from Mumbai Indians to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he will continue to develop as a bowling all-rounder. Despite carrying the weight of a legendary surname, he has shown glimpses of his own potential and is slowly carving out a distinct path in Indian cricket.&nbsp;With both personal and professional milestones on the horizon, 2026 promises to be a landmark year for Arjun Tendulkar.

Reports say Arjun Tendulkar is set to marry Saaniya Chandhok on March 5, 2026, in Mumbai. The couple’s wedding is expected to be private, while Arjun continues his cricket journey with LSG.

Arjun Tendulkar, son of master blaster Sachin Tendulkar, is all set to take a big step in his personal life. Reports confirm that he will marry his fiancee, Saaniya Chandhok, with the wedding celebrations scheduled for March 5, 2026. The couple had a secret engagement in August 2025, attended only by close family members. Sachin Tendulkar later confirmed the engagement during a Reddit AMA, saying, “Yes, he did, and we are all very excited for the new phase in his life.” The wedding is expected to be an intimate affair in Mumbai, with a carefully curated guest list including family, close friends, and select members of the cricketing community. While the world will watch, the celebrations are likely to remain private, ensuring a personal and memorable experience for the couple. Also read | WATCH: Ocean of fans surround Virat Kohli at Vadodara airport on his arrival Saaniya Chandhok is a successful entrepreneur and comes from a prominent family. She is the granddaughter of well-known Mumbai businessman Ravi Ghai. Over the years, she has reportedly been a close part of the Tendulkar family’s inner circle. On the cricketing front, Arjun has been steadily making his mark. He began his domestic career with Mumbai before moving to Goa, where he established himself as a talented left-arm fast bowler and capable lower-order batsman. In a remarkable debut in the Ranji Trophy in 2022, Arjun scored a century in his first first-class match, echoing his father’s achievement of reaching three figures in his maiden outing. Arjun recently moved from Mumbai Indians to Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where he will continue to develop as a bowling all-rounder. Despite carrying the weight of a legendary surname, he has shown glimpses of his own potential and is slowly carving out a distinct path in Indian cricket. With both personal and professional milestones on the horizon, 2026 promises to be a landmark year for Arjun Tendulkar.

Reports say Arjun Tendulkar is set to marry Saaniya Chandhok on March 5, 2026, in Mumbai. The couple’s wedding is expected to be private, while Arjun continues his cricket journey with LSG.

Arjun Tendulkar set to marry Saaniya Chandhok in March 2026: Reports

Travis Head (579 runs in Ashes 2025/26) is now one of four openers with 500+ runs in one Ashes series 2000. The other three batters are Alastair Cook (766 in 2010/11), Michael Vaughan (633 in 2002/03), and David Warner (523 in 2013/14).

Travis Head (579 runs in Ashes 2025/26) is now one of four openers with 500+ runs in one Ashes series 2000. The other three batters are Alastair Cook (766 in 2010/11), Michael Vaughan (633 in 2002/03), and David Warner (523 in 2013/14).

Travis Head joins list of openers with 500-plus runs in one Ashes series since 2000. Only three more batters are in list

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Head is now one of four openers with 500+ runs in one Ashes series since 2000