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From AB de Villiers to Shahid Afridi here is a look at five batters to score fastest ODI hundreds in the first innings. The list also features the likes of Corey Anderson, Glenn Maxwell and Asif Khan who have scored the fastest tons in the ODI format.

From AB de Villiers to Shahid Afridi here is a look at five batters to score fastest ODI hundreds in the first innings. The list also features the likes of Corey Anderson, Glenn Maxwell and Asif Khan who have scored the fastest tons in the ODI format.

From AB de Villiers to Shahid Afridi, 5 batters to score fastest ODI hundred (batting first only)

From Shubman Gill to Rohit Sharma here is a look at five Indians batters with most international runs in a calendar year. The list features the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer as well while Virat Kohli narrowly missed out in 2023 despite excellent ODI World Cup.

From Shubman Gill to Rohit Sharma here is a look at five Indians batters with most international runs in a calendar year. The list features the likes of Yashasvi Jaiswal and Shreyas Iyer as well while Virat Kohli narrowly missed out in 2023 despite excellent ODI World Cup.

From Shubman Gill to Rohit Sharma, 5 Indians batters with most international runs in a calendar year (last five)

Former India cricketer Yograj Singh has strongly criticised the Indian selectors for leaving Shubman Gill out of the T20 World Cup squad, questioning why a player once trusted as vice-captain was dropped after a brief dip in form. Speaking on a YouTube show with Ravi Bisht, Yograj said Gill deserved more backing, especially after being elevated to leadership responsibilities not long ago. He felt the selectors showed little patience with the young batter, something Indian cricket has rarely done in the past.&nbsp;“Shubman Gill is a vice-captain. What is the reason behind dropping him? Just because he failed in four or five innings?” Yograj said. He added that several Indian players in the past were given long runs despite inconsistent performances. According to him, Gill should have been treated no differently.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/top-5-moments-that-defined-indian-sport-in-2025-1767195872982">Top 5 moments that defined Indian sport in 2025</a>&nbsp;Yograj also raised questions about how young players are handled, using Abhishek Sharma as an example. He asked whether the same harsh standards would be applied if Abhishek went through a lean patch.&nbsp;Taking the debate further, Yograj dragged Kapil Dev into the discussion, revisiting an old episode from Indian cricket history. He claimed that during a tour of Pakistan, Kapil Dev continued to play despite not performing with either bat or ball. Yograj said then-captain Bishan Singh Bedi still backed Kapil and even took him on the subsequent tour of England, showing faith during a difficult phase.&nbsp;Gill was omitted from India’s T20 World Cup squad announced on December 20, a decision that surprised many. He had been recalled to the T20I side after a year and was named vice-captain during the Asia Cup. India also broke up the opening partnership of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma to accommodate Gill at the top, but the move did not pay off.&nbsp;Since his return, Gill scored 291 runs in 15 T20Is at an average of 24.25 and a strike rate of 137.26, without a single half-century. As India searched for the right combination, Samson was pushed down the order and later dropped.&nbsp;Chief selector Ajit Agarkar clarified that Gill was not dropped due to lack of quality but because of team combination needs. Ishan Kishan was later recalled on the back of strong domestic performances. Gill will continue to lead India in ODIs and Tests and is set to captain the side in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

Yograj Singh questions India’s decision to drop Shubman Gill from the T20 World Cup squad, defending the vice-captain and comparing the move with past selectord backing of senior players.


Former India cricketer Yograj Singh has strongly criticised the Indian selectors for leaving Shubman Gill out of the T20 World Cup squad, questioning why a player once trusted as vice-captain was dropped after a brief dip in form. Speaking on a YouTube show with Ravi Bisht, Yograj said Gill deserved more backing, especially after being elevated to leadership responsibilities not long ago. He felt the selectors showed little patience with the young batter, something Indian cricket has rarely done in the past. “Shubman Gill is a vice-captain. What is the reason behind dropping him? Just because he failed in four or five innings?” Yograj said. He added that several Indian players in the past were given long runs despite inconsistent performances. According to him, Gill should have been treated no differently. Also read | Top 5 moments that defined Indian sport in 2025 Yograj also raised questions about how young players are handled, using Abhishek Sharma as an example. He asked whether the same harsh standards would be applied if Abhishek went through a lean patch. Taking the debate further, Yograj dragged Kapil Dev into the discussion, revisiting an old episode from Indian cricket history. He claimed that during a tour of Pakistan, Kapil Dev continued to play despite not performing with either bat or ball. Yograj said then-captain Bishan Singh Bedi still backed Kapil and even took him on the subsequent tour of England, showing faith during a difficult phase. Gill was omitted from India’s T20 World Cup squad announced on December 20, a decision that surprised many. He had been recalled to the T20I side after a year and was named vice-captain during the Asia Cup. India also broke up the opening partnership of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma to accommodate Gill at the top, but the move did not pay off. Since his return, Gill scored 291 runs in 15 T20Is at an average of 24.25 and a strike rate of 137.26, without a single half-century. As India searched for the right combination, Samson was pushed down the order and later dropped. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar clarified that Gill was not dropped due to lack of quality but because of team combination needs. Ishan Kishan was later recalled on the back of strong domestic performances. Gill will continue to lead India in ODIs and Tests and is set to captain the side in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand.

Yograj Singh questions India’s decision to drop Shubman Gill from the T20 World Cup squad, defending the vice-captain and comparing the move with past selectors backing of senior players.

Dropped after 4-5 innings? Yograj Singh defends Shubman Gill after T20 World Cup snub

From Babar Azam to Hashim Amla, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 3000 runs in ODIs. This list also includes Shai Hope, Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq

From Babar Azam to Hashim Amla, here's a look at the top five batters fastest to 3000 runs in ODIs. This list also includes Shai Hope, Fakhar Zaman and Imam-ul-Haq

Meet top 5 batters fastest to 3000 runs in ODIs, surprisingly no Indian on the list

From Hayley Matthews to Amelia Kerr, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in Women's Premier League. This list also includes Sophie Ecclestone, Jess Jonassen and Nat Sciver-Brunt

From Hayley Matthews to Amelia Kerr, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in Women's Premier League. This list also includes Sophie Ecclestone, Jess Jonassen and Nat Sciver-Brunt

Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in Women's Premier League

England announced their 12-man contingent for the fifth Test match of the Ashes at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Friday (Jan 2) with Matthew Potts and Shoaib Bashir included. The final Test between Australia and England will start on Sunday (Jan 4) with the hosts leading 3-1. England were forced to make the changes after Gus Atkinson injured his hamstring, while Jofra Archer was also ruled out due to injury-related issues.<h2>England include Shoaib Bashir, Matthew Potts</h2>Having won the Boxing Day contest in just two days, England will enter the final Ashes Test with heads held high. During the contest, Atkinson pulled his hamstring and was ruled out of the contest on Day 1. On the other hand, Archer was also not available for the Boxing Day Test. England will be eyeing a win at SCG with the World Test Championship (WTC) final place still in reckoning.&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;Bashir, last played for England in the India series in July at Lord’s and has since been out of the Playing XI. He will now have the opportunity to impress the side in the SCG Test, which starts on Sunday. Bashir has been warming the bench for the entire Ashes and played in the England Lions contest in Brisbane against Australia A.&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><h2>Will Australia start 2026 on winning note?</h2>Australia lead the five-match Ashes 3-1 and could start the calendar year on a high with a win. Australia’s fixture at the SCG will be their final red-ball match before they prepare for the T20 World Cup. Steve Smith will once again lead the side in Pat Cummins’s absence, who has been picked for the T20 World Cup 2026.<h2>England squad for the fifth Ashes Test</h2>Ben Stokes (Captain), Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (WK), Josh Tongue

The final Test between Australia and England will start on Sunday (Jan 4) with the hosts leading 3-1. England were forced to make the changes after Gus Atkinson injured his hamstring, while Jofra Archer was also ruled out due to injury-related issues.

England announced their 12-man contingent for the fifth Test match of the Ashes at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) on Friday (Jan 2) with Matthew Potts and Shoaib Bashir included. The final Test between Australia and England will start on Sunday (Jan 4) with the hosts leading 3-1. England were forced to make the changes after Gus Atkinson injured his hamstring, while Jofra Archer was also ruled out due to injury-related issues. England include Shoaib Bashir, Matthew Potts Having won the Boxing Day contest in just two days, England will enter the final Ashes Test with heads held high. During the contest, Atkinson pulled his hamstring and was ruled out of the contest on Day 1. On the other hand, Archer was also not available for the Boxing Day Test. England will be eyeing a win at SCG with the World Test Championship (WTC) final place still in reckoning. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Bashir, last played for England in the India series in July at Lord’s and has since been out of the Playing XI. He will now have the opportunity to impress the side in the SCG Test, which starts on Sunday. Bashir has been warming the bench for the entire Ashes and played in the England Lions contest in Brisbane against Australia A. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Will Australia start 2026 on winning note? Australia lead the five-match Ashes 3-1 and could start the calendar year on a high with a win. Australia’s fixture at the SCG will be their final red-ball match before they prepare for the T20 World Cup. Steve Smith will once again lead the side in Pat Cummins’s absence, who has been picked for the T20 World Cup 2026. England squad for the fifth Ashes Test Ben Stokes (Captain), Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (WK), Josh Tongue

The final Test between Australia and England will start on Sunday (Jan 4) with the hosts leading 3-1. England were forced to make the changes after Gus Atkinson injured his hamstring, while Jofra Archer was also ruled out due to injury-related issues.

Ashes: Shoaib Bashir, Matthew Potts included in 12-man squad for SCG Test

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2026. This list also includes Daryl Mitchell, Ibrahim Zadran and Shubman Gill

From Virat Kohli to Rohit Sharma, here's a look at the top five batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2026. This list also includes Daryl Mitchell, Ibrahim Zadran and Shubman Gill

Meet top 5 batters in latest ICC ODI rankings 2026

Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has hit out at racial stereotyping, having called time on his career on Friday (Jan 2). As announced, the upcoming Sydney Test in the Ashes will be his last for the Baggy Greens and he will walk out for one last time on Sunday. During the presser, he addressed racial abuse while coming into the national team with a Pakistani origin.<h2>Khawaja addresses racial stereotyping</h2>"I've always felt a little bit different, even to now," Khawaja said while addressing the press conference on Friday (Jan 2). "I'm a coloured cricketer. The Australian cricket team is, in my opinion, that's our best team. It's our pride and joy. But I've also felt very different in a lot of respects, different by the way I've been treated, different in how things have happened.&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;"I had back spasms, and that's something I couldn't control. But the way the media and the past players came out and attacked me, I could have copped it for two days, but I copped it for about five days straight. And it wasn't even about my performances,” Khawaja added.&nbsp;Khawaja, who debuted at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the 2010-11 Ashes, will finish his international career at the same ground, playing his 88th and final Test for Australia.&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;Khawaja has been instrumental to Australia’s success in the Test format in recent years and has served the nation well. He scored 82 in the Adelaide Test but was subsequently dropped for the Brisbane Test. When injuries later affected the Australian side, Khawaja was recalled.&nbsp;The 39-year-old has played in 87 Test matches, smashing 6206 runs with a best of 232. He has also played in the ODI and T20I formats with 40 and 9 matches, respectively.

Usman Khawaja, who debuted at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the 2010-11 Ashes, will finish his international career at the same ground, playing his 88th and final Test for Australia.

Australian cricketer Usman Khawaja has hit out at racial stereotyping, having called time on his career on Friday (Jan 2). As announced, the upcoming Sydney Test in the Ashes will be his last for the Baggy Greens and he will walk out for one last time on Sunday. During the presser, he addressed racial abuse while coming into the national team with a Pakistani origin. Khawaja addresses racial stereotyping "I've always felt a little bit different, even to now," Khawaja said while addressing the press conference on Friday (Jan 2). "I'm a coloured cricketer. The Australian cricket team is, in my opinion, that's our best team. It's our pride and joy. But I've also felt very different in a lot of respects, different by the way I've been treated, different in how things have happened. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes "I had back spasms, and that's something I couldn't control. But the way the media and the past players came out and attacked me, I could have copped it for two days, but I copped it for about five days straight. And it wasn't even about my performances,” Khawaja added. Khawaja, who debuted at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the 2010-11 Ashes, will finish his international career at the same ground, playing his 88th and final Test for Australia. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Khawaja has been instrumental to Australia’s success in the Test format in recent years and has served the nation well. He scored 82 in the Adelaide Test but was subsequently dropped for the Brisbane Test. When injuries later affected the Australian side, Khawaja was recalled. The 39-year-old has played in 87 Test matches, smashing 6206 runs with a best of 232. He has also played in the ODI and T20I formats with 40 and 9 matches, respectively.

Usman Khawaja, who debuted at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the 2010-11 Ashes, will finish his international career at the same ground, playing his 88th and final Test for Australia.

Ashes: Usman Khawaja hits out at racial stereotyping, says 'I've always felt a little bit different'

Veteran Australian batter Usman Khawaja will bring curtains down on an illustrious career in the upcoming Sydney Test in the Ashes, as announced by him on Friday (Jan 2). Khawaja, who made his debut at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the 2010-11 Ashes for the Aussies, will complete a full circle and retire from international cricket at the same ground. The upcoming final Test in the Ashes will be his 88th and last for the Baggy Greens.<h2>Khawaja calls time on international career</h2>“I’ve always felt a little bit different, even to now,” Khawaja said. “I’m a coloured cricketer. The Australian cricket team is our pride and joy, but I’ve felt different in the way I’ve been treated and the way things have happened. I know why I get nailed a lot of the time, and I understand that talking about issues outside cricket leaves me exposed.”&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;Now 39, Khawaja has been instrumental to Australia’s success in the Test format in recent years and has served the nation well. He scored 82 in the Adelaide Test but was subsequently dropped for the Brisbane Test. When injuries later affected the Australian side, Khawaja was recalled.&nbsp;The 39-year-old has played in 87 Test matches, smashing 6206 runs with a best of 232. He has also played in the ODI and T20I formats with 40 and 9 matches, respectively.&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><h2>Will Australia start 2026 on winning note?</h2>Australia lead the five-match Ashes 3-1 and could start the calendar year on a high with a win. Australia’s fixture at the SCG will be their final red-ball match before they prepare for the T20 World Cup. Steve Smith will once again lead the side in Pat Cummins’s absence, who has been picked for the T20 World Cup 2026.&nbsp;

Usman Khawaja, who made his debut at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the 2010-11 Ashes for the Aussies, will complete a full circle and retire from international cricket at the same ground. 

Veteran Australian batter Usman Khawaja will bring curtains down on an illustrious career in the upcoming Sydney Test in the Ashes, as announced by him on Friday (Jan 2). Khawaja, who made his debut at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the 2010-11 Ashes for the Aussies, will complete a full circle and retire from international cricket at the same ground. The upcoming final Test in the Ashes will be his 88th and last for the Baggy Greens. Khawaja calls time on international career “I’ve always felt a little bit different, even to now,” Khawaja said. “I’m a coloured cricketer. The Australian cricket team is our pride and joy, but I’ve felt different in the way I’ve been treated and the way things have happened. I know why I get nailed a lot of the time, and I understand that talking about issues outside cricket leaves me exposed.” ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Now 39, Khawaja has been instrumental to Australia’s success in the Test format in recent years and has served the nation well. He scored 82 in the Adelaide Test but was subsequently dropped for the Brisbane Test. When injuries later affected the Australian side, Khawaja was recalled. The 39-year-old has played in 87 Test matches, smashing 6206 runs with a best of 232. He has also played in the ODI and T20I formats with 40 and 9 matches, respectively. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Will Australia start 2026 on winning note? Australia lead the five-match Ashes 3-1 and could start the calendar year on a high with a win. Australia’s fixture at the SCG will be their final red-ball match before they prepare for the T20 World Cup. Steve Smith will once again lead the side in Pat Cummins’s absence, who has been picked for the T20 World Cup 2026.

Usman Khawaja, who made his debut at the Sydney Cricket Ground in the 2010-11 Ashes for the Aussies, will complete a full circle and retire from international cricket at the same ground.&nbsp;

Ashes: Veteran Usman Khawaja announces international retirement, to bid farewell at SCG

We have entered 2026, and this year promises cricket in abundance. Before international Test cricket gets underway, let’s check out who the last five top-ranked Test batters were at the start of each year.

We have entered 2026, and this year promises cricket in abundance. Before international Test cricket gets underway, let’s check out who the last five top-ranked Test batters were at the start of each year.

Meet last 5 ranked No. 1 Test batters at start of each year (2022-2026)

Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin feels Indian ODI cricket will feel optional once the two batting stalwarts, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, announce their One-Day retirements. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he is unsure about the future of 50-over cricket following the next World Cup (in 2027), ringing alarm bells for the format. Although Ashwin admits to following the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he feels like putting in extra effort to keep up with it as compared to watching the T20 competition (Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy).&nbsp;“I am not sure about the future of ODI after the 2027 World Cup. I am a little worried about it. Of course, I am following the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but the manner in which I followed SMAT, I am finding it slightly difficult to follow,” Ashwin said. &nbsp;The former ODI WC winner, Ashwin, feels Test cricket might still find its space among the audience, but ODI cricket might face the wrath of time.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-scgt-test-steve-smith-to-lead-usman-khawaja-retains-spot-as-australia-name-final-15-1767263227197">Ashes: Smith to lead, Khawaja retains spot as Australia name final 15 for SCG Test</a> &nbsp;“Also, we need to know what the audience wants to watch. I feel Test cricket still has space, but ODI cricket, I truly feel, doesn’t have the space,” Ashwin, who has 156 ODI wickets to name, continued. &nbsp;However, he also stressed how the Indian ODI cricket, riding on Rohit and Virat’s shoulders, could lose its relevance once both decide to step aside. Ashwin also pinpointed how their presence in the Vijay Hazare Trophy made this tournament, which otherwise happens every year, the talking point among the Indian fans. &nbsp;“Look, Rohit and Virat came back to the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and people started watching it. We have known that sport is always bigger than individuals, but at times these players need to come back to make the game relevant. &nbsp;Ashwin questions that when both leave, where would India’s ODI cricket go from that point? &nbsp;“Vijay Hazare Trophy, of course, is a domestic competition that not a lot of people follow, but they did because Virat and Rohit were playing. Even then, what happens when they stop playing ODIs?” Ashwin concluded. &nbsp;Meanwhile, Rohit and Virat would play the home ODIs against New Zealand, starting in 10 days.

Ashwin feels Test cricket might still find its space among the audience, but ODI cricket might face the wrath of time.

Former Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin feels Indian ODI cricket will feel optional once the two batting stalwarts, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, announce their One-Day retirements. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin said he is unsure about the future of 50-over cricket following the next World Cup (in 2027), ringing alarm bells for the format. Although Ashwin admits to following the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, he feels like putting in extra effort to keep up with it as compared to watching the T20 competition (Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy). “I am not sure about the future of ODI after the 2027 World Cup. I am a little worried about it. Of course, I am following the Vijay Hazare Trophy, but the manner in which I followed SMAT, I am finding it slightly difficult to follow,” Ashwin said. The former ODI WC winner, Ashwin, feels Test cricket might still find its space among the audience, but ODI cricket might face the wrath of time. Also read | Ashes: Smith to lead, Khawaja retains spot as Australia name final 15 for SCG Test “Also, we need to know what the audience wants to watch. I feel Test cricket still has space, but ODI cricket, I truly feel, doesn’t have the space,” Ashwin, who has 156 ODI wickets to name, continued. However, he also stressed how the Indian ODI cricket, riding on Rohit and Virat’s shoulders, could lose its relevance once both decide to step aside. Ashwin also pinpointed how their presence in the Vijay Hazare Trophy made this tournament, which otherwise happens every year, the talking point among the Indian fans. “Look, Rohit and Virat came back to the Vijay Hazare Trophy, and people started watching it. We have known that sport is always bigger than individuals, but at times these players need to come back to make the game relevant. Ashwin questions that when both leave, where would India’s ODI cricket go from that point? “Vijay Hazare Trophy, of course, is a domestic competition that not a lot of people follow, but they did because Virat and Rohit were playing. Even then, what happens when they stop playing ODIs?” Ashwin concluded. Meanwhile, Rohit and Virat would play the home ODIs against New Zealand, starting in 10 days.

Ashwin feels Test cricket might still find its space among the audience, but ODI cricket might face the wrath of time.

Indian ODI cricket could lose relevance after Rohit and Kohli retire, fears Ravi Ashwin

England might have conceded the Ashes, but they still have plenty to play for in the final Test at the SCG in Sydney, starting this Sunday (Jan 4). Although a win here wouldn’t change much for the visitors, barring their points on the WTC standings, what good it could do is save the much-talked-about Bazball philosophy, potentially saving Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes’ jobs, former captain Michael Vaughan reckons.&nbsp;England lost the first three Ashes Tests within 11 days before winning the next – the Boxing Day one at the MCG inside six sessions, which Vaughan feels was more of a mere lottery than a hard-fought win. &nbsp;Putting the Bazball and the two concerned men behind it on notice, Vaughan warned all against their worst fears should England lose in Sydney, surrendering the away series 1-4. Vaughan calls for the tourists to pull up their socks and play to win the fifth Ashes Test, to have any pride on their sleeves following a shaky start.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-scgt-test-steve-smith-to-lead-usman-khawaja-retains-spot-as-australia-name-final-15-1767263227197">Ashes: Smith to lead, Khawaja retains spot as Australia name final 15 for SCG Test</a> &nbsp;"I think it's a massive game for England [in Sydney]. It's nice to win a game of cricket, but let's be honest, it was a complete lottery in Melbourne. It wasn't a proper game of Test match cricket. For the future and for this management in particular, they need to win a strong game of cricket here...that's not a two-dayer," Vaughan said as quoted by the Sydney Morning Herald. &nbsp;Although Bazball ended England’s 500-plus-day wait for a Test win on the Aussie soil (at the MCG), having last won the 2011 SCG Test (by an innings), Vaughan feels that for everything to fall in place for them, England must have a rock-solid week, ending it with nothing less than a victory. &nbsp;"For this management to carry on, the likes of Ben and Baz - I'm pretty sure they will carry on - but I think they need a good week for that to be absolutely rock solid. There's a huge appetite within the group to keep [McCullum] on. But fundamentally, if they get pummeled in Sydney, there needs to be some honest conversations," Vaughan continued.<h3>‘Chopping, changing not required’</h3>Considering any result is possible in Sydney, Vaughan reckons if England loses the final Test, chopping and changing wouldn’t solve anything, as they, as a unit, must realise that they got most things wrong on this tour and should work on them to put England’s Test cricket back on track. &nbsp;"I think chopping and changing is not necessarily the right thing for English cricket. Whatever happens at the end of this tour, they've got to accept that they got a lot of things wrong. If they're going to be so stubborn to think that they were a bit unlucky, or things didn't quite go the way they wanted ... well, we have a problem going forward.&nbsp; &nbsp;“The key is maturity, and that's the one thing that I think this team can be a lot better at, in terms of the way they play and talk. If they can accept that, I have no problem with the management staying the same," Vaughan said.

Vaughan feels that, despite conceding the Ashes, McCullum and Stokes could avoid ‘serious conversations’ if they could guide England home in the showdown Test in Sydney. 

England might have conceded the Ashes, but they still have plenty to play for in the final Test at the SCG in Sydney, starting this Sunday (Jan 4). Although a win here wouldn’t change much for the visitors, barring their points on the WTC standings, what good it could do is save the much-talked-about Bazball philosophy, potentially saving Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes’ jobs, former captain Michael Vaughan reckons. England lost the first three Ashes Tests within 11 days before winning the next – the Boxing Day one at the MCG inside six sessions, which Vaughan feels was more of a mere lottery than a hard-fought win. Putting the Bazball and the two concerned men behind it on notice, Vaughan warned all against their worst fears should England lose in Sydney, surrendering the away series 1-4. Vaughan calls for the tourists to pull up their socks and play to win the fifth Ashes Test, to have any pride on their sleeves following a shaky start. Also read | Ashes: Smith to lead, Khawaja retains spot as Australia name final 15 for SCG Test "I think it's a massive game for England [in Sydney]. It's nice to win a game of cricket, but let's be honest, it was a complete lottery in Melbourne. It wasn't a proper game of Test match cricket. For the future and for this management in particular, they need to win a strong game of cricket here...that's not a two-dayer," Vaughan said as quoted by the Sydney Morning Herald. Although Bazball ended England’s 500-plus-day wait for a Test win on the Aussie soil (at the MCG), having last won the 2011 SCG Test (by an innings), Vaughan feels that for everything to fall in place for them, England must have a rock-solid week, ending it with nothing less than a victory. "For this management to carry on, the likes of Ben and Baz - I'm pretty sure they will carry on - but I think they need a good week for that to be absolutely rock solid. There's a huge appetite within the group to keep [McCullum] on. But fundamentally, if they get pummeled in Sydney, there needs to be some honest conversations," Vaughan continued. ‘Chopping, changing not required’ Considering any result is possible in Sydney, Vaughan reckons if England loses the final Test, chopping and changing wouldn’t solve anything, as they, as a unit, must realise that they got most things wrong on this tour and should work on them to put England’s Test cricket back on track. "I think chopping and changing is not necessarily the right thing for English cricket. Whatever happens at the end of this tour, they've got to accept that they got a lot of things wrong. If they're going to be so stubborn to think that they were a bit unlucky, or things didn't quite go the way they wanted ... well, we have a problem going forward. “The key is maturity, and that's the one thing that I think this team can be a lot better at, in terms of the way they play and talk. If they can accept that, I have no problem with the management staying the same," Vaughan said.

Vaughan feels that, despite conceding the Ashes, McCullum and Stokes could avoid ‘serious conversations’ if they could guide England home in the showdown Test in Sydney.&nbsp;

Ashes: SCG Test to decide Bazball future, warns Vaughan, who calls Boxing Day win ‘lottery’

Australia has named the final 15 for the fifth Ashes Test at the SCG in Sydney, starting Sunday (Jan 4). Leading the five-match series 3-1, Australia retained Usman Khawaja amid uncertainty around his future, while naming Steve Smith as the stand-in captain in Pat Cummins’ absence. The leading wicket-taker, Mitchell Starc, will lead the pace attack, with Scott Boland also retaining his place. Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson and Brendan Doggett are also part of the squad, with Todd Murphy leading the race to get an Ashes recall this time.<h3>Australia squad for the SCG Test against England –</h3>Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald and Beau Webster &nbsp;Khawaja, who played in the middle order at the G, retains his place, while the same goes for under-firing Marnus Labuschagne, who hasn’t been in the best of form during the ongoing Ashes. The selectors also backed Green, who is yet to hit the right notes with both bat and ball, including Beau Webster as a backup option.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-michael-vaughan-urges-usman-khawaja-to-quit-test-cricket-on-terms-ahead-of-sydney-clash-1767246533271">Ashes: Michael Vaughan urges Usman Khawaja to quit Test cricket on terms ahead of Sydney clash</a> &nbsp;Head and Weatherald will continue as the opening pair, with Marnus and Smith to follow them. Alex Carey would retain his place as the gloveman, with Australia to play either Josh Inglis or Webster, with Green remaining an integral part of the playing XI. &nbsp;On the bowling front, Starc and Boland would start, with the hosts having plenty of options to choose from as the first-change bowler. While Richardson leads the race, Neser’s all-round attributes could also see him push for his case.&nbsp; &nbsp;In Nathan Lyon’s absence, Murphy would get a game at a venue likely to favour spin at some point in the game.&nbsp;

In three contested matches in the ongoing Ashes, the left-handed Khawaja scored 153 runs, averaging just over 30. 

Australia has named the final 15 for the fifth Ashes Test at the SCG in Sydney, starting Sunday (Jan 4). Leading the five-match series 3-1, Australia retained Usman Khawaja amid uncertainty around his future, while naming Steve Smith as the stand-in captain in Pat Cummins’ absence. The leading wicket-taker, Mitchell Starc, will lead the pace attack, with Scott Boland also retaining his place. Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson and Brendan Doggett are also part of the squad, with Todd Murphy leading the race to get an Ashes recall this time. Australia squad for the SCG Test against England – Steve Smith (captain), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald and Beau Webster Khawaja, who played in the middle order at the G, retains his place, while the same goes for under-firing Marnus Labuschagne, who hasn’t been in the best of form during the ongoing Ashes. The selectors also backed Green, who is yet to hit the right notes with both bat and ball, including Beau Webster as a backup option. Also read | Ashes: Michael Vaughan urges Usman Khawaja to quit Test cricket on terms ahead of Sydney clash Head and Weatherald will continue as the opening pair, with Marnus and Smith to follow them. Alex Carey would retain his place as the gloveman, with Australia to play either Josh Inglis or Webster, with Green remaining an integral part of the playing XI. On the bowling front, Starc and Boland would start, with the hosts having plenty of options to choose from as the first-change bowler. While Richardson leads the race, Neser’s all-round attributes could also see him push for his case. In Nathan Lyon’s absence, Murphy would get a game at a venue likely to favour spin at some point in the game.

In three contested matches in the ongoing Ashes, the left-handed Khawaja scored 153 runs, averaging just over 30.&nbsp;

Ashes: Smith to lead, Khawaja retains spot as Australia name final 15 for SCG Test

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan has found himself in the centre of attention with less than three months to go before the Indian Premier League (IPL) season starts. Shah Rukh, co-owner of IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has been slammed by ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sangeet Som. The former member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly has called Shah Rukh a “traitor” for buying Bangladesh player Mustafizur Rahman in the IPL auctions held in December.<h2>BJP slams Shah Rukh Khan</h2>"On one hand, Hindus are being killed in Bangladesh, and on the other hand, cricketers are being bought in the IPL. The traitorous film actor Shah Rukh Khan has bought Bangladeshi cricketer Rahman for Rs 9 crore. Such traitors have no right to live in this country," Som said during a public event in India’s Meerut.&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;During the IPL 2026 auctions in Abu Dhabi, KKR bought Rahman for Rs 9.2 crore, one of the highest during the auctions for a foreign player. However, with communal violence against Hindus in Bangladesh at its peak, BJP leaders have urged a boycott of Bangladeshi commodities and stars. Part of that boycott is Rahman’s inclusion in the KKR side for IPL 2026.&nbsp;However, Som was later slammed by his opposition leaders and allies for pointing a finger at Shah Rukh Khan.&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;Congress leader Surender Rajput slammed the BJP and said it is a "traitor" party."They are attacking Shah Rukh Khan just because he is a Muslim," he told NDTV.BJP ally and UP minister Om Prakash Rajbhar also slammed Som, saying he keeps making such statements "to stay in the limelight".&nbsp;IPL 2026 is set to start in the final week of March, with the auctions having taken place in December. KKR have won the IPL three times, including their recent win in 2024 when they beat SunRisers Hyderabad in the final.

During the IPL 2026 auctions in Abu Dhabi, KKR bought Mustafizur Rahman for Rs 9.2 crore, one of the highest during the auctions for a foreign player. 

Bollywood star Shah Rukh Khan has found himself in the centre of attention with less than three months to go before the Indian Premier League (IPL) season starts. Shah Rukh, co-owner of IPL franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), has been slammed by ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Sangeet Som. The former member of the Uttar Pradesh Legislative Assembly has called Shah Rukh a “traitor” for buying Bangladesh player Mustafizur Rahman in the IPL auctions held in December. BJP slams Shah Rukh Khan "On one hand, Hindus are being killed in Bangladesh, and on the other hand, cricketers are being bought in the IPL. The traitorous film actor Shah Rukh Khan has bought Bangladeshi cricketer Rahman for Rs 9 crore. Such traitors have no right to live in this country," Som said during a public event in India’s Meerut. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes During the IPL 2026 auctions in Abu Dhabi, KKR bought Rahman for Rs 9.2 crore, one of the highest during the auctions for a foreign player. However, with communal violence against Hindus in Bangladesh at its peak, BJP leaders have urged a boycott of Bangladeshi commodities and stars. Part of that boycott is Rahman’s inclusion in the KKR side for IPL 2026. However, Som was later slammed by his opposition leaders and allies for pointing a finger at Shah Rukh Khan. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Congress leader Surender Rajput slammed the BJP and said it is a "traitor" party. "They are attacking Shah Rukh Khan just because he is a Muslim," he told NDTV. BJP ally and UP minister Om Prakash Rajbhar also slammed Som, saying he keeps making such statements "to stay in the limelight". IPL 2026 is set to start in the final week of March, with the auctions having taken place in December. KKR have won the IPL three times, including their recent win in 2024 when they beat SunRisers Hyderabad in the final.

During the IPL 2026 auctions in Abu Dhabi, KKR bought Mustafizur Rahman for Rs 9.2 crore, one of the highest during the auctions for a foreign player.&nbsp;

IPL 2026: BJP leader slams Shah Rukh Khan, calls him 'traitor' after KKR purchases Bangladeshi player

Former England captain and commentator Michael Vaughan has urged Usman Khawaja to hang up his boots ahead of the final Ashes Test in Sydney. As the final Test of another intense Ashes series gets closer, Khawaja, now in the twilight of his career, is struggling for form. According to Vaughan, Sydney Test is the right time to announce retirement from the red-ball format and if he does not do he could be forced out of the squad.<h2>Khawaja to retire after Sydney Test?</h2>“I would say to Usman, ‘Don’t let them decide. You decide your destiny.’ When someone has been playing for so long, we’ve just got to let them decide. Usman has had an incredible career and not many get the chance to say goodbye on their own terms at their own venue,” Vaughan said, as quoted by the Sydney Morning Herald.&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;Now 39, Khawaja has been instrumental to Australia’s success in the Test format in recent years and has served the nation well. Although Khawaja scored 82 in the Adelaide Test, he has been under the radar in recent times and was dropped for the Brisbane Test. However, with injuries plaguing the Australian side, Khawaja was brought back into the side.&nbsp;Over the years, Khawaja has played in 87 Test matches, smashing 6206 runs with a best of 232. He has also played in the ODI and T20I formats with 40 and 9 matches, respectively.&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><h2>Will Australia start 2026 on winning note?</h2>Australia lead the five-match Ashes 3-1 and could start the calendar year on a high with a win. Australia’s fixture at the SCG will be their final red-ball match before they prepare for the T20 World Cup. Steve Smith will once again lead the side in Pat Cummins’s absence, who has been picked for the T20 World Cup 2026.

As the final Test of another intense Ashes series gets closer, Usman Khawaja, now in the twilight of his career, is struggling for form. 

Former England captain and commentator Michael Vaughan has urged Usman Khawaja to hang up his boots ahead of the final Ashes Test in Sydney. As the final Test of another intense Ashes series gets closer, Khawaja, now in the twilight of his career, is struggling for form. According to Vaughan, Sydney Test is the right time to announce retirement from the red-ball format and if he does not do he could be forced out of the squad. Khawaja to retire after Sydney Test? “I would say to Usman, ‘Don’t let them decide. You decide your destiny.’ When someone has been playing for so long, we’ve just got to let them decide. Usman has had an incredible career and not many get the chance to say goodbye on their own terms at their own venue,” Vaughan said, as quoted by the Sydney Morning Herald. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Now 39, Khawaja has been instrumental to Australia’s success in the Test format in recent years and has served the nation well. Although Khawaja scored 82 in the Adelaide Test, he has been under the radar in recent times and was dropped for the Brisbane Test. However, with injuries plaguing the Australian side, Khawaja was brought back into the side. Over the years, Khawaja has played in 87 Test matches, smashing 6206 runs with a best of 232. He has also played in the ODI and T20I formats with 40 and 9 matches, respectively. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Will Australia start 2026 on winning note? Australia lead the five-match Ashes 3-1 and could start the calendar year on a high with a win. Australia’s fixture at the SCG will be their final red-ball match before they prepare for the T20 World Cup. Steve Smith will once again lead the side in Pat Cummins’s absence, who has been picked for the T20 World Cup 2026.

As the final Test of another intense Ashes series gets closer, Usman Khawaja, now in the twilight of his career, is struggling for form.&nbsp;

Ashes: Michael Vaughan urges Usman Khawaja to quit Test cricket on terms ahead of Sydney clash

Australia named their 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 in India (co-hosted by Sri Lanka) as Test skipper Pat Cummins returned to the set-up. In the squad announced on New Year’s Day, Australia named injured Cummins in the 15-man squad while Josh Hazlewood and Tim David were also included. The T20 World Cup begins on February 7 with Australia placed in Group B and starting their campaign against Ireland.<h2>Pat Cummins returns</h2>In the announcement made on Thursday (Jan 1), Cummins' inclusion comes as he recovers from an injury that saw him miss a chunk of the Ashes. Cummins’ return will be a huge boost, considering he has led the team in the last edition. He will spearhead the bowling attack in the absence of Mitchell Starc, who has now retired from the format.&nbsp;Australia have also named Tim David and Josh Hazlewood in the squad despite injury worries. Hazlewood missed the entire Ashes but is likely to be fit in the coming days, while David was injured during the Big Bash League. However, he, like Hazlewood, will be back in the squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India.&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;Hobart Hurricanes star Mitchell Owen is the most notable omission from the 15-man squad, while Cooper Connolly is a surprise inclusion. In spin heavy 15-man squad, Australia will have the services of Matthew Short, Matthew Kuhnemann and Xavier Bartlett.&nbsp;Australia will play all their group stage matches in Sri Lanka before they play in India in the Super 8 stages (subject to qualification).&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><h2>Australia's Group B fixtures</h2>Feb 11 v Ireland, ColomboFeb 13 v Zimbabwe, ColomboFeb 16 v Sri Lanka, KandyFeb 20 v Oman, Kandy<h2>Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.&nbsp;

In the squad announced on New Year’s Day, Australia named injured Pat Cummins in the 15-man squad while Josh Hazlewood and Tim David were also included. 

Australia named their 15-man squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2026 in India (co-hosted by Sri Lanka) as Test skipper Pat Cummins returned to the set-up. In the squad announced on New Year’s Day, Australia named injured Cummins in the 15-man squad while Josh Hazlewood and Tim David were also included. The T20 World Cup begins on February 7 with Australia placed in Group B and starting their campaign against Ireland. Pat Cummins returns In the announcement made on Thursday (Jan 1), Cummins' inclusion comes as he recovers from an injury that saw him miss a chunk of the Ashes. Cummins’ return will be a huge boost, considering he has led the team in the last edition. He will spearhead the bowling attack in the absence of Mitchell Starc, who has now retired from the format. Australia have also named Tim David and Josh Hazlewood in the squad despite injury worries. Hazlewood missed the entire Ashes but is likely to be fit in the coming days, while David was injured during the Big Bash League. However, he, like Hazlewood, will be back in the squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup in India. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Hobart Hurricanes star Mitchell Owen is the most notable omission from the 15-man squad, while Cooper Connolly is a surprise inclusion. In spin heavy 15-man squad, Australia will have the services of Matthew Short, Matthew Kuhnemann and Xavier Bartlett. Australia will play all their group stage matches in Sri Lanka before they play in India in the Super 8 stages (subject to qualification). ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Australia's Group B fixtures Feb 11 v Ireland, Colombo Feb 13 v Zimbabwe, Colombo Feb 16 v Sri Lanka, Kandy Feb 20 v Oman, Kandy Australia squad for T20 World Cup 2026 Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Pat Cummins, Tim David, Cameron Green, Nathan Ellis, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Matthew Kuhnemann, Glenn Maxwell, Matthew Short, Marcus Stoinis, Adam Zampa.

In the squad announced on New Year’s Day, Australia named injured Pat Cummins in the 15-man squad while Josh Hazlewood and Tim David were also included.&nbsp;

T20 World Cup 2026: Cummins included as Australia name 15-man squad; Hazlewood, David also get nod

Delhi Capitals have started their preparations for the fourth season of the Women’s Premier League with a pre-season training camp in Goa. South African players Marizanne Kapp and Lizelle Lee are among the first overseas cricketers to join the camp. Experienced all-rounder Kapp and wicketkeeper-batter Lee, who recently helped the Hobart Hurricanes to win the WBBL title, have started their training alongside Indian players including Taniyaa Bhatia, Niki Prasad, Minnu Mani, Mamatha Madiwala, Deeya Yadav and Nandni Sharma.. England all-rounder Lucy Hamilton is also part of the camp.<h2>Watch the video</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">The first training session was this smoooooth! 🤌 <a href="https://t.co/Bx9kBsL7nm">pic.twitter.com/Bx9kBsL7nm</a>&mdash; Delhi Capitals (@DelhiCapitals) <a href="https://twitter.com/DelhiCapitals/status/2006289837540905047?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The practice sessions are being led by head coach Jonathan Batty, while the remaining Indian international players are expected to join soon.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shubman-gill-ravindra-jadeja-to-play-vijay-hazare-trophy-in-january-report-1767176056764">Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja to play Vijay Hazare Trophy in January: Report</a>&nbsp;"It's been great to get the squad together and start working on our plans for the season," Batty said. “We have some fresh faces in the team, so it will be exciting to see them blend with our philosophy. Goa's weather is perfect for preparations. The remaining players will join in a couple of days, and we'll begin training in full swing with the complete squad before heading to Mumbai to start our season and take it match by match toward our objectives,” he added.&nbsp;&nbsp;Delhi Capitals CEO Sunil Gupta said that the team values continuity and a strong team culture after finishing runners-up in the last three seasons. He said the camp helps players connect with each other, especially new members and added that Goa is an ideal place to begin preparations.&nbsp;&nbsp;"From a franchise perspective, players love coming back to Delhi Capitals; it's like a family," he said.&nbsp;“The pre-season camp is where the fun and serious work begins. It's a great opportunity for players to bond, especially with new faces in the squad, and Goa is one of the best locations to set the tone. Our consistency over the past seasons has helped us reach three consecutive finals, and the aim is to continue that momentum this year,” he added.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-2025-26-travis-head-wants-rivals-to-share-drinks-after-sydney-test-1767176983355">Ashes 2025-26: Travis Head wants rivals to share drinks after Sydney Test</a>&nbsp;Delhi Capitals will start their WPL 2026 season against two-time champions Mumbai Indians on January 10 in Navi Mumbai.

Delhi Capitals will start their WPL 2026 season against two-time champions Mumbai Indians on January 10 in Navi Mumbai.

Delhi Capitals have started their preparations for the fourth season of the Women’s Premier League with a pre-season training camp in Goa. South African players Marizanne Kapp and Lizelle Lee are among the first overseas cricketers to join the camp. Experienced all-rounder Kapp and wicketkeeper-batter Lee, who recently helped the Hobart Hurricanes to win the WBBL title, have started their training alongside Indian players including Taniyaa Bhatia, Niki Prasad, Minnu Mani, Mamatha Madiwala, Deeya Yadav and Nandni Sharma.. England all-rounder Lucy Hamilton is also part of the camp. Watch the video

Delhi Capitals will start their WPL 2026 season against two-time champions Mumbai Indians on January 10 in Navi Mumbai.

WPL 2026: Lizelle Lee, Marizanne Kapp join Delhi Capitals camp in Goa - WATCH

2025 is over, and now we take a look at the five most successful outfits in the One-Day format. Check where Team India ranks on this list.

2025 is over, and now we take a look at the five most successful outfits in the One-Day format. Check where Team India ranks on this list.

5 Most Successful ODI Teams in 2025, check where Team India ranks

From Jacob Duffy to Blessing Muzarabani, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in 2025. This list also includes Matt Henry, Kuldeep Yadav and Ali Dawood

From Jacob Duffy to Blessing Muzarabani, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most wickets in 2025. This list also includes Matt Henry, Kuldeep Yadav and Ali Dawood

Meet top 5 bowlers with most wickets in 2025, one Indian on list

India’s Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and top-order batter KL Rahul are set to take part in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in January. The trio will play a few matches for their state teams before joining the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting on January 11. According to Cricbuzz, Shubman Gill is likely to play for Punjab in their matches on January 3 and 6 against Sikkim and Goa in Jaipur.&nbsp;Punjab are in Group C and are currently fourth on the points table, having won two of their three matches. After these games, Gill will leave to join the Indian team, which will assemble in Baroda on January 7 and 8 ahead of the first ODI against the Kiwis.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-khan-to-lead-afghanistan-at-t20-world-cup-2026-mujeeb-farooqi-return-1767170272061">Rashid Khan to lead Afghanistan at T20 World Cup 2026; Mujeeb, Farooqi return</a>&nbsp;Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja has also told the Saurashtra Cricket Association that he will play matches on January 6 and 8 against Services and Gujarat. Saurashtra are playing their matches in Alur, Karnataka. They have won one of their three matches so far and are placed sixth in their group.&nbsp;KL Rahul’s participation has not been officially confirmed by the Karnataka State Cricket Association, but he is expected to play matches on January 3 and 6 against Tripura and Rajasthan in Ahmedabad. Karnataka are second in Group A and have won all three of their matches so far.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pm-narendra-modi-praises-arjun-erigaisi-for-winning-bronze-medal-at-fide-world-blitz-chess-championship-1767160650406">PM Modi praises Arjun for bronze medal at World Blitz Chess Championship</a>&nbsp;The current Vijay Hazare Trophy season has seen many big players in action. Senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have also played domestic matches as part of the BCCI’s requirement.&nbsp;&nbsp;Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been regularly playing for Delhi and is expected to play the full season for his team.

The current Vijay Hazare Trophy season has seen many big players in action. Senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have also played domestic matches as part of the BCCI’s requirement. 

India’s Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja and top-order batter KL Rahul are set to take part in the Vijay Hazare Trophy in January. The trio will play a few matches for their state teams before joining the Indian squad for the three-match ODI series against New Zealand, starting on January 11. According to Cricbuzz, Shubman Gill is likely to play for Punjab in their matches on January 3 and 6 against Sikkim and Goa in Jaipur. Punjab are in Group C and are currently fourth on the points table, having won two of their three matches. After these games, Gill will leave to join the Indian team, which will assemble in Baroda on January 7 and 8 ahead of the first ODI against the Kiwis. Also Read - Rashid Khan to lead Afghanistan at T20 World Cup 2026; Mujeeb, Farooqi return Meanwhile, Ravindra Jadeja has also told the Saurashtra Cricket Association that he will play matches on January 6 and 8 against Services and Gujarat. Saurashtra are playing their matches in Alur, Karnataka. They have won one of their three matches so far and are placed sixth in their group. KL Rahul’s participation has not been officially confirmed by the Karnataka State Cricket Association, but he is expected to play matches on January 3 and 6 against Tripura and Rajasthan in Ahmedabad. Karnataka are second in Group A and have won all three of their matches so far. Also Read - PM Modi praises Arjun for bronze medal at World Blitz Chess Championship The current Vijay Hazare Trophy season has seen many big players in action. Senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have also played domestic matches as part of the BCCI’s requirement. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been regularly playing for Delhi and is expected to play the full season for his team.

The current Vijay Hazare Trophy season has seen many big players in action. Senior batters Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have also played domestic matches as part of the BCCI’s requirement.&nbsp;

Shubman Gill, Ravindra Jadeja to play Vijay Hazare Trophy in January: Report

Mohammed Shami last played an ODI for India early this year in the triumphant Champions Trophy campaign and hasn’t donned the Indian jersey since. Although he remains an integral part of India’s white-ball setup, Shami has regularly faced rejection despite his significant domestic performances; but not for long anymore, as the selectors have admitted keeping a close tab on his domestic showing, opening doors for his possible return to the Indian team, considering the 2027 ODI World Cup is less than two years away.&nbsp;"Mohammed Shami is being discussed on a regular basis. He is not out of reckoning. The only concern is about his fitness. A bowler of his calibre will get wickets. It is wrong to say he is out of the selection radar. He is looking good for the New Zealand One-Day series. Do not be surprised if he is picked, given his experience and ability to take wickets at will. Even the 2027 World Cup is a possibility,” a BCCI source close to the information said in a chat with NDTV.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/shreyas-iyer-loses-weight-muscle-mass-after-injury-unlikely-for-new-zealand-odis-report-1767165537259">Shreyas Iyer loses weight, muscle mass after injury, unlikely for New Zealand ODIs – Report</a> &nbsp;Shami’s case is complicated; for what he did in the 2023 ODI World Cup, picking up 24 wickets in just seven contested matches, including a seven-wicket haul in the semis (against New Zealand) and later in the Champions Trophy, ending the tournament as the joint-highest wicket-taker (9), he never deserved to be out for this long. Moreover, his last Test appearance came more than two years ago (during the 2023 WTC Final). &nbsp;Pressing his case in the domestic scene, Shami has been impressive in both red and white-ball competitions. While he has 17 wickets to his name in the last six matches (three in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy and three in the concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy), Shami picked up 20 in just four Ranji matches this season, highlighting his ability to deliver across formats. &nbsp;Shami’s issue, however, has never been about his skill to pick up wickets at will, but about his fitness, which has been under scrutiny since he broke his ankle midway through the 2023 World Cup. The selectors first dropped him from the home Test series against NZ last year, citing concerns around his ability to adapt to red-ball cricket following his lengthy spell at the sidelines, before maintaining their stance on his fitness for further series. &nbsp;Shami, 35, however, needs to continue his good form and maintain his fitness, should he and selectors look at him as a potential for the marquee event in Africa.

Shami was India's best bowler in the last two ICC tournaments he participated in, returning with the most wickets for the Men in Blue.

Mohammed Shami last played an ODI for India early this year in the triumphant Champions Trophy campaign and hasn’t donned the Indian jersey since. Although he remains an integral part of India’s white-ball setup, Shami has regularly faced rejection despite his significant domestic performances; but not for long anymore, as the selectors have admitted keeping a close tab on his domestic showing, opening doors for his possible return to the Indian team, considering the 2027 ODI World Cup is less than two years away. "Mohammed Shami is being discussed on a regular basis. He is not out of reckoning. The only concern is about his fitness. A bowler of his calibre will get wickets. It is wrong to say he is out of the selection radar. He is looking good for the New Zealand One-Day series. Do not be surprised if he is picked, given his experience and ability to take wickets at will. Even the 2027 World Cup is a possibility,” a BCCI source close to the information said in a chat with NDTV. Also read | Shreyas Iyer loses weight, muscle mass after injury, unlikely for New Zealand ODIs – Report Shami’s case is complicated; for what he did in the 2023 ODI World Cup, picking up 24 wickets in just seven contested matches, including a seven-wicket haul in the semis (against New Zealand) and later in the Champions Trophy, ending the tournament as the joint-highest wicket-taker (9), he never deserved to be out for this long. Moreover, his last Test appearance came more than two years ago (during the 2023 WTC Final). Pressing his case in the domestic scene, Shami has been impressive in both red and white-ball competitions. While he has 17 wickets to his name in the last six matches (three in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy and three in the concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy), Shami picked up 20 in just four Ranji matches this season, highlighting his ability to deliver across formats. Shami’s issue, however, has never been about his skill to pick up wickets at will, but about his fitness, which has been under scrutiny since he broke his ankle midway through the 2023 World Cup. The selectors first dropped him from the home Test series against NZ last year, citing concerns around his ability to adapt to red-ball cricket following his lengthy spell at the sidelines, before maintaining their stance on his fitness for further series. Shami, 35, however, needs to continue his good form and maintain his fitness, should he and selectors look at him as a potential for the marquee event in Africa.

Shami was India's best bowler in the last two ICC tournaments he participated in, returning with the most wickets for the Men in Blue.

Shami’s India return on cards as selectors admit ‘closely monitoring’ his domestic performances

Australia batter Travis Head has said he hopes players from Australia and England can come together for drinks after the Ashes ends in Sydney, bringing back a long-standing tradition between the two fierce rivals. With Australia already retaining the Ashes, Head believes the series has been played in the right spirit and deserves a friendly finish off the field.&nbsp;Sharing drinks at the end of an Ashes series has been common for decades, symbolising mutual respect after weeks of intense cricket. However, that tradition was missed after the 2023 Ashes in England, when tensions between the teams ran high, and post-series plans never worked out. Head feels the upcoming Sydney Test offers a chance to turn the page.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/rashid-khan-to-lead-afghanistan-at-t20-world-cup-2026-mujeeb-farooqi-return-1767170272061">Rashid Khan to lead Afghanistan at T20 World Cup 2026; Mujeeb, Farooqi return</a>&nbsp;Speaking to an Australian newspaper, Head said there is strong respect between the two sides and good personal relationships among players. He mentioned that he gets along well with a few England cricketers and is especially looking forward to having a beer with England opener Ben Duckett once the series wraps up. For Head, it would be a nice moment, made sweeter by the fact that Australia have already won the series.&nbsp;Australia currently lead the five-match series 3-1 after clinching victory in the third Test in Adelaide, which confirmed their hold on the Ashes urn. The final Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting January 4.&nbsp;Relations between the teams had taken a hit during the 2023 Ashes after a major controversy involving Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey and England batter Jonny Bairstow. The incident sparked a debate around the “spirit of cricket” and led to heated exchanges, including abuse directed at Australian players by England fans at Lord’s. At the time, England coach Brendon McCullum said he could not imagine sharing drinks with Australia.&nbsp;Although McCullum later softened his stance, the teams never met, leading to criticism in Australian media. England captain Ben Stokes later explained that long farewells after the final Test prevented the gathering.&nbsp;This time, Head hopes things will be different. For him, sharing a drink would be a simple but meaningful way to close the chapter on a hard-fought Ashes series and restore a valued tradition.

Travis Head hopes Australia and England revive the Ashes tradition of post-series drinks in Sydney, stressing mutual respect between the teams after Australia secured the Ashes series.


Australia batter Travis Head has said he hopes players from Australia and England can come together for drinks after the Ashes ends in Sydney, bringing back a long-standing tradition between the two fierce rivals. With Australia already retaining the Ashes, Head believes the series has been played in the right spirit and deserves a friendly finish off the field. Sharing drinks at the end of an Ashes series has been common for decades, symbolising mutual respect after weeks of intense cricket. However, that tradition was missed after the 2023 Ashes in England, when tensions between the teams ran high, and post-series plans never worked out. Head feels the upcoming Sydney Test offers a chance to turn the page. Also read | Rashid Khan to lead Afghanistan at T20 World Cup 2026; Mujeeb, Farooqi return Speaking to an Australian newspaper, Head said there is strong respect between the two sides and good personal relationships among players. He mentioned that he gets along well with a few England cricketers and is especially looking forward to having a beer with England opener Ben Duckett once the series wraps up. For Head, it would be a nice moment, made sweeter by the fact that Australia have already won the series. Australia currently lead the five-match series 3-1 after clinching victory in the third Test in Adelaide, which confirmed their hold on the Ashes urn. The final Test will be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground, starting January 4. Relations between the teams had taken a hit during the 2023 Ashes after a major controversy involving Australia wicketkeeper Alex Carey and England batter Jonny Bairstow. The incident sparked a debate around the “spirit of cricket” and led to heated exchanges, including abuse directed at Australian players by England fans at Lord’s. At the time, England coach Brendon McCullum said he could not imagine sharing drinks with Australia. Although McCullum later softened his stance, the teams never met, leading to criticism in Australian media. England captain Ben Stokes later explained that long farewells after the final Test prevented the gathering. This time, Head hopes things will be different. For him, sharing a drink would be a simple but meaningful way to close the chapter on a hard-fought Ashes series and restore a valued tradition.

Travis Head hopes Australia and England revive the Ashes tradition of post-series drinks in Sydney, stressing mutual respect between the teams after Australia secured the Ashes series.

Ashes 2025-26: Travis Head wants rivals to share drinks after Sydney Test

From Lasith Malinga to Rashid Khan, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 150 wickets in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Dwayne Bravo

From Lasith Malinga to Rashid Khan, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 150 wickets in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Yuzvendra Chahal, Jasprit Bumrah and Dwayne Bravo

Meet top 5 bowlers fastest to 150 wickets in Indian Premier League

Controversies were at the centre of all the happenings in 2025 as an Indian sport was shaken with some incredible moments echoing in the calendar year. Whether it was the stampede in Bengaluru after RCB’s maiden IPL title or the ISL season going into limbo, the sports fraternity witnessed some incredible moments. So as the year drops curtains, here is a look at five controversial moments that highlighted 2025.<h2>Stampede during RCB’s victory parade in Bengaluru</h2>On 4 June 2025, a day after RCB won their maiden IPL title in Ahmedabad, a victory parade was planned at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Benglauru. In the aftermath of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, an unfortunate incident of stampede occurred as the franchise celebrated in the state capital. At least 11 people were killed, leading to a series of actions from the state government and consequences in the aftermath of the incident. &nbsp;&nbsp;<h2>India vs Pakistan handshake row in Asia Cup 2025</h2>Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistan counterparts at the toss and then in the post-match during the India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025. In the aftermath, an official complaint was raised by the Pakistan Cricket Board to the ICC match referee. The complaint was later confirmed by Mohsin Naqvi, who is the head of the PCB and also of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC).&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><h2>Chaos in Messi’s Kolkata event</h2>Lionel Messi, who landed in Kolkata in the wee hours of Saturday (Dec 13) for his four-city GOAT tour, was at the Salt Lake Stadium when chaos erupted from the fans. The incident saw fans hurling water bottles and chairs in the stand after Messi’s visit lasted for less than 10 minutes, as he was not in action despite fans paying a big sum for his glimpse. Police took control into their hands, but anger was evident from a section of the fans. In the meantime, CM Mamata had to cancel her trip to the Salt Lake Stadium while she was on her way, with Messi already leaving for the airport.&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><h2>No ISL season as sponsors pull out</h2>The FSDL’s contract with AIFF for ISL came to an end last season with no new contract agreed between the parties. As part of the agreement, FSDL pays AIFF Rs 50 crore ($5.82mn) annually to oversee properties like the national team and the Indian Super League. However, no deal was struck as the ISL season was cancelled. &nbsp;<h2>India denied Asia Cup trophy</h2>India refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy at the presentation ceremony, which was delayed by more than an hour after they beat Pakistan by five wickets in the final in September in Dubai. They refused because the trophy was to be presented by Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the chairman of the PCB and the interior minister of Pakistan.

 In the aftermath of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, an unfortunate incident of stampede occurred as the franchise celebrated in the state capital. 11 people were killed, leading to a series of actions from the state government and consequences in the aftermath of the incident.   

Controversies were at the centre of all the happenings in 2025 as an Indian sport was shaken with some incredible moments echoing in the calendar year. Whether it was the stampede in Bengaluru after RCB’s maiden IPL title or the ISL season going into limbo, the sports fraternity witnessed some incredible moments. So as the year drops curtains, here is a look at five controversial moments that highlighted 2025. Stampede during RCB’s victory parade in Bengaluru On 4 June 2025, a day after RCB won their maiden IPL title in Ahmedabad, a victory parade was planned at the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Benglauru. In the aftermath of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, an unfortunate incident of stampede occurred as the franchise celebrated in the state capital. At least 11 people were killed, leading to a series of actions from the state government and consequences in the aftermath of the incident. India vs Pakistan handshake row in Asia Cup 2025 Indian players refused to shake hands with their Pakistan counterparts at the toss and then in the post-match during the India vs Pakistan clash in the Asia Cup 2025. In the aftermath, an official complaint was raised by the Pakistan Cricket Board to the ICC match referee. The complaint was later confirmed by Mohsin Naqvi, who is the head of the PCB and also of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC). ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Chaos in Messi’s Kolkata event Lionel Messi, who landed in Kolkata in the wee hours of Saturday (Dec 13) for his four-city GOAT tour, was at the Salt Lake Stadium when chaos erupted from the fans. The incident saw fans hurling water bottles and chairs in the stand after Messi’s visit lasted for less than 10 minutes, as he was not in action despite fans paying a big sum for his glimpse. Police took control into their hands, but anger was evident from a section of the fans. In the meantime, CM Mamata had to cancel her trip to the Salt Lake Stadium while she was on her way, with Messi already leaving for the airport. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes No ISL season as sponsors pull out The FSDL’s contract with AIFF for ISL came to an end last season with no new contract agreed between the parties. As part of the agreement, FSDL pays AIFF Rs 50 crore ($5.82mn) annually to oversee properties like the national team and the Indian Super League. However, no deal was struck as the ISL season was cancelled. India denied Asia Cup trophy India refused to accept the Asia Cup trophy at the presentation ceremony, which was delayed by more than an hour after they beat Pakistan by five wickets in the final in September in Dubai. They refused because the trophy was to be presented by Asian Cricket Council president Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the chairman of the PCB and the interior minister of Pakistan.

&nbsp;In the aftermath of RCB’s maiden IPL title win, an unfortunate incident of stampede occurred as the franchise celebrated in the state capital. 11 people were killed, leading to a series of actions from the state government and consequences in the aftermath of the incident. &nbsp;&nbsp;

From Benglauru stampede to no ISL, 5 controversies that shook Indian sports

Afghanistan have named Rashid Khan as their skipper for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be played in India and Sri Lanka. The leg-spinner will lead a 15-member squad that also marks the return of key players Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Fazalhaq Farooqi ahead of the global event. Mujeeb’s comeback strengthens Afghanistan’s spin attack, while Farooqi adds depth to the pace unit. Gulbadin Naib and Naveen-ul-Haq are also back in the side, with Naveen returning after recovering from a shoulder injury. The squad will get match practice during a three-match T20I series against West Indies in January, as Afghanistan aim to build on their historic semi-final run in the last T20 World Cup.<h2>Afghanistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026</h2>Rashid Khan (capt), Ibrahim Zadran (vice-capt), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Shahidullah Kamal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Abdullah Ahmadzai&nbsp;Reserves: AM Ghazanfar, Ijaz Ahmadzai and Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi&nbsp;Also read |<a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/big-hits-bigger-impact-5-players-with-most-sixes-in-wpl-history-2-rcb-players-feature-1767169063425"> Big hits, bigger impact: 5 players with most sixes in WPL history; 2 RCB players feature</a>&nbsp;

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">ACB Name AfghanAtalan Squad for the West Indies Series and the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Kabul – December 31, 2025: The Afghanistan Cricket Board’s National Selection Committee has finalized the AfghanAtalan Squad for the upcoming T20I series against the West Indies and the… <a href="https://t.co/odBoCbMAWy">pic.twitter.com/odBoCbMAWy</a>&mdash; Afghanistan Cricket Board (@ACBofficials) <a href="https://twitter.com/ACBofficials/status/2006258884629921897?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 31, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>ACB Chief selector explains the exclusion of Ghazanfar</h2>Ahmad Shah Sulimankhil, ACB’s Chief Selector, explained the decision to leave out Allah Ghazanfar as he termed the cricketer unlucky to miss out on securing a place in the squad. "We had good discussions over the past few days and finalised the squad. Gulbadin Naib is a big-match player, and his return boosts our team. We are also pleased to have Naveen Ul Haq back, which enhances the quality of our fast bowling. "It was a tough decision to leave AM Ghazanfar out of the main squad, as his place made way for Mujeeb. Shahidullah Kamal performed well in the recent event and provided us with a valuable left-handed option, which is crucial in major tournaments," he said during the squad launch.<h2>Afghanistan is placed in Group D</h2>Afghanistan will play a three-match T20I series in the UAE against the West Indies from January 9 to 22 before heading to the marquee event. Afghanistan are placed in Group D&nbsp;alongside New Zealand, South Africa, United Arab Emirates and Canada. They will start their campaign against New Zealand on February 8 in Chennai.

Rashid Khan will captain Afghanistan at the T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, with Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Fazalhaq Farooqi returning to strengthen the squad ahead of the global tournament.


Afghanistan have named Rashid Khan as their skipper for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to be played in India and Sri Lanka. The leg-spinner will lead a 15-member squad that also marks the return of key players Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Fazalhaq Farooqi ahead of the global event. Mujeeb’s comeback strengthens Afghanistan’s spin attack, while Farooqi adds depth to the pace unit. Gulbadin Naib and Naveen-ul-Haq are also back in the side, with Naveen returning after recovering from a shoulder injury. The squad will get match practice during a three-match T20I series against West Indies in January, as Afghanistan aim to build on their historic semi-final run in the last T20 World Cup. Afghanistan squad for T20 World Cup 2026 Rashid Khan (capt), Ibrahim Zadran (vice-capt), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Shahidullah Kamal, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi and Abdullah Ahmadzai Reserves: AM Ghazanfar, Ijaz Ahmadzai and Zia Ur Rahman Sharifi Also read | Big hits, bigger impact: 5 players with most sixes in WPL history; 2 RCB players feature

Rashid Khan will captain Afghanistan at the T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, with Mujeeb Ur Rahman and Fazalhaq Farooqi returning to strengthen the squad ahead of the global tournament.

Rashid Khan to lead Afghanistan at T20 World Cup 2026; Mujeeb, Farooqi return

Shreyas Iyer has lost close to six kgs and even muscle mass while recovering from a spleen laceration he suffered during the away Australian tour in October this year, and now remains out of contention for the forthcoming home ODIs against New Zealand. The latest reports suggest that Iyer hasn't regained full fitness to be part of India's One-Day setup, ruling him out of the country's next 50-over assignment, which begins January 11 in Vadodara. Iyer is said to be okay to bat but has yet to regain the strength to spend 50 overs on the field.&nbsp;The media reports have also claimed that if Iyer’s recovery remains on track, he might return to playing competitive cricket for the first time in nearly three months, for Mumbai in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Although he hasn’t received any clearance from the BCCI’s medical staff, an NDTV report states that Iyer’s participation in the domestic tournament and the India series depends on his ability to cope with the physical rigours of 50-over cricket following his abdomen surgery.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-former-australia-batter-damien-martyn-hospitalised-with-meningitis-1767155757050">Former Australia batter Damien Martyn hospitalised with meningitis</a> &nbsp;"Shreyas Iyer has started skill training this week. He is in good shape. But we will have to assess his ability to field in a 50-over game before putting him back on the park. Depending on how he pulls up, his participation in the Vijay Hazare will be decided," a BCCI source close to the information said in a chat with NDTV. &nbsp;During the final ODI at the SCG, Iyer suffered a spleen laceration while attempting to complete Alex Carey’s catch. He left the field immediately, with the scans revealing internal bleeding, which required hospitalisation and intensive care. &nbsp;Shreyas underwent a minor surgical treatment to control his internal bleeding, while a BCCI doctor also closely monitored his improvement during their stay in Australia and later in India.&nbsp; &nbsp;Meanwhile, Iyer also missed the home ODIs against South Africa, which India won.&nbsp;

Iyer suffered an injury while attempting to complete a catch during India's final ODI against Australia in October.

Shreyas Iyer has lost close to six kgs and even muscle mass while recovering from a spleen laceration he suffered during the away Australian tour in October this year, and now remains out of contention for the forthcoming home ODIs against New Zealand. The latest reports suggest that Iyer hasn't regained full fitness to be part of India's One-Day setup, ruling him out of the country's next 50-over assignment, which begins January 11 in Vadodara. Iyer is said to be okay to bat but has yet to regain the strength to spend 50 overs on the field. The media reports have also claimed that if Iyer’s recovery remains on track, he might return to playing competitive cricket for the first time in nearly three months, for Mumbai in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy. Although he hasn’t received any clearance from the BCCI’s medical staff, an NDTV report states that Iyer’s participation in the domestic tournament and the India series depends on his ability to cope with the physical rigours of 50-over cricket following his abdomen surgery. Also read | Former Australia batter Damien Martyn hospitalised with meningitis "Shreyas Iyer has started skill training this week. He is in good shape. But we will have to assess his ability to field in a 50-over game before putting him back on the park. Depending on how he pulls up, his participation in the Vijay Hazare will be decided," a BCCI source close to the information said in a chat with NDTV. During the final ODI at the SCG, Iyer suffered a spleen laceration while attempting to complete Alex Carey’s catch. He left the field immediately, with the scans revealing internal bleeding, which required hospitalisation and intensive care. Shreyas underwent a minor surgical treatment to control his internal bleeding, while a BCCI doctor also closely monitored his improvement during their stay in Australia and later in India. Meanwhile, Iyer also missed the home ODIs against South Africa, which India won.

Iyer suffered an injury while attempting to complete a catch during India's final ODI against Australia in October.

Shreyas Iyer loses weight, muscle mass after injury, unlikely for New Zealand ODIs – Report

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