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England have had a tough time on this tour Down Under, having lost the away Ashes inside 11 days and also its three first-team quicks heading into the New Year’s Test in Sydney, the latest of whom is seamer Gus Atkinson, to a hamstring injury. After pacers Mark Wood (knee) and Jofra Archer (side strain) got ruled out after the second and third Test, respectively, the tourists now lost Atkinson, who picked up three wickets across two innings at the MCG, for the fifth Test.&nbsp;Atkinson appeared to strain his hamstring on the second day in Melbourne while bowling the final delivery of his fifth over of Australia’s second innings. The lanky quick left the field immediately and went for the scans; he did not return to the field afterwards and was not required to bat (as England completed the run chase with four wickets remaining).&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-former-england-cricket-team-boss-hugh-morris-dies-aged-62-1766938502390">Former England cricket team boss Hugh Morris dies aged 62</a> &nbsp;England chased 175 on day two to end their 18-match losing streak in Australia, clinching their first Test win Down Under since winning the SCG Test 14 years ago in 2011. &nbsp;Meanwhile, England have opted against roping in his replacement with just one Test remaining, as they have several players warming the benches (to pick from), including two seamers – Matthew Potts and Matthew Fisher, alongside off-spinner Shoaib Bashir.<h3>Khawaja locked in for SCG Test &nbsp;</h3>Amid concerns around his Test future, Usman Khawaja has been locked in (playing XI) for the Sydney Test, head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed in the latest development. He also commented on the rumours of Khawaja, now 39, potentially announcing his international retirement following the final home Test this season, adding that there have been no conversations around this in the lead-up to the SCG Test, and that Khawaja is confirmed to start in the playing XI.&nbsp; &nbsp;"We've been really clear that we haven't had a conversation," McDonald said of Khawaja’s potential retirement announcement. "The speculation has been from the external. He's with his family at the moment, having a couple of days off. &nbsp;"We'll build into Sydney, and we're always having conversations about where players are at and speaking directly with players. And there's no indication at my end that he's calling it in Sydney. &nbsp;"So that'll be something that we'll discuss, but his performance in this calendar year has been good enough to warrant selection, so I'd say he'd be there marking centre in Sydney. &nbsp;"Our challenge is that if any of our great players retire, is that you want to acknowledge them. But until that point in time when you're clear on someone's future, it's very difficult,” he continued. &nbsp;The fifth and final Test begins on Sunday (January 4) at the SCG in Sydney.&nbsp;

In five innings against England this time, Khawaja has scored 153 runs, averaging just over 30. 

England have had a tough time on this tour Down Under, having lost the away Ashes inside 11 days and also its three first-team quicks heading into the New Year’s Test in Sydney, the latest of whom is seamer Gus Atkinson, to a hamstring injury. After pacers Mark Wood (knee) and Jofra Archer (side strain) got ruled out after the second and third Test, respectively, the tourists now lost Atkinson, who picked up three wickets across two innings at the MCG, for the fifth Test. Atkinson appeared to strain his hamstring on the second day in Melbourne while bowling the final delivery of his fifth over of Australia’s second innings. The lanky quick left the field immediately and went for the scans; he did not return to the field afterwards and was not required to bat (as England completed the run chase with four wickets remaining). Also read | Former England cricket team boss Hugh Morris dies aged 62 England chased 175 on day two to end their 18-match losing streak in Australia, clinching their first Test win Down Under since winning the SCG Test 14 years ago in 2011. Meanwhile, England have opted against roping in his replacement with just one Test remaining, as they have several players warming the benches (to pick from), including two seamers – Matthew Potts and Matthew Fisher, alongside off-spinner Shoaib Bashir. Khawaja locked in for SCG Test Amid concerns around his Test future, Usman Khawaja has been locked in (playing XI) for the Sydney Test, head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed in the latest development. He also commented on the rumours of Khawaja, now 39, potentially announcing his international retirement following the final home Test this season, adding that there have been no conversations around this in the lead-up to the SCG Test, and that Khawaja is confirmed to start in the playing XI. "We've been really clear that we haven't had a conversation," McDonald said of Khawaja’s potential retirement announcement. "The speculation has been from the external. He's with his family at the moment, having a couple of days off. "We'll build into Sydney, and we're always having conversations about where players are at and speaking directly with players. And there's no indication at my end that he's calling it in Sydney. "So that'll be something that we'll discuss, but his performance in this calendar year has been good enough to warrant selection, so I'd say he'd be there marking centre in Sydney. "Our challenge is that if any of our great players retire, is that you want to acknowledge them. But until that point in time when you're clear on someone's future, it's very difficult,” he continued. The fifth and final Test begins on Sunday (January 4) at the SCG in Sydney.

In five innings against England this time, Khawaja has scored 153 runs, averaging just over 30.&nbsp;

Ashes: England quick ruled out of SCG Test; Australia lock in Khawaja amid his future uncertainty

India women extended their dominance in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka women with another commanding win on Sunday (Dec 28). Playing at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, India defeated Sri Lanka by 30 runs to take a 4-0 lead in the five-match series. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma were the star performers for India as both scored respective fifties before missing out on a ton.<h2>India extend dominance</h2>Continuing from India's impressive batting, Sri Lanka were tasked with chasing 222 runs to win the match. They stayed in contention with a positive start as Hasini Perera (33) and Chamari Athapaththu (52) put together 59 runs for the opening wicket before the former was dismissed. Imesha Dulani (29) and Harshitha Samarawickrama (20) also contributed to the chase, but the visitors did not have enough to give India any headache before they were restricted to 191/6 in 20 overs.&nbsp;Arundhati Reddy and Vaishnavi Sharma both ended with two wickets each, while Shree Charani had one scalp.&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>Shafali, Smriti run riot</h2>Making her 150th T20I appearance, Chamari Athapaththu’s Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first. A decision that backfired for the visitors as the Indian opening pair put a stand of 162 runs for the opening wicket, Shafali Verma scoring 79 off 46, which included 12 fours and a six. On the other hand, Smriti was also in great nick of form as she scored 80 off 48 for the Women in Blue.&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;Later, Richa Ghosh (40 off 16) and Harmanpreet Kaur (16 off 10) helped India reach 200 in what was another run feast for the home side.&nbsp;The two teams will now meet in the final T20I on Tuesday, bringing down the curtains on 2025 at the same venue.

Playing at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, India defeated Sri Lanka by 30 runs to take a 4-0 lead in the five-match series. 

India women extended their dominance in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka women with another commanding win on Sunday (Dec 28). Playing at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, India defeated Sri Lanka by 30 runs to take a 4-0 lead in the five-match series. Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma were the star performers for India as both scored respective fifties before missing out on a ton. India extend dominance Continuing from India's impressive batting, Sri Lanka were tasked with chasing 222 runs to win the match. They stayed in contention with a positive start as Hasini Perera (33) and Chamari Athapaththu (52) put together 59 runs for the opening wicket before the former was dismissed. Imesha Dulani (29) and Harshitha Samarawickrama (20) also contributed to the chase, but the visitors did not have enough to give India any headache before they were restricted to 191/6 in 20 overs. Arundhati Reddy and Vaishnavi Sharma both ended with two wickets each, while Shree Charani had one scalp. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Shafali, Smriti run riot Making her 150th T20I appearance, Chamari Athapaththu’s Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first. A decision that backfired for the visitors as the Indian opening pair put a stand of 162 runs for the opening wicket, Shafali Verma scoring 79 off 46, which included 12 fours and a six. On the other hand, Smriti was also in great nick of form as she scored 80 off 48 for the Women in Blue. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Later, Richa Ghosh (40 off 16) and Harmanpreet Kaur (16 off 10) helped India reach 200 in what was another run feast for the home side. The two teams will now meet in the final T20I on Tuesday, bringing down the curtains on 2025 at the same venue.

Playing at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, India defeated Sri Lanka by 30 runs to take a 4-0 lead in the five-match series.&nbsp;

IND-W vs SL-W: Smriti, Shafali impress as India extend dominance with win in Trivandrum, lead series 4-0

Glamorgan announced the death of Hugh Morris, the former chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), at the age of 62 on Sunday.&nbsp;Morris won three Test caps for England in 1991 as an opening batsman and also led Glamorgan to the Sunday League title two years later as captain.&nbsp;After his playing career came to an end, Morris went on to hold a series of senior positions at the ECB.&nbsp;Following a stint as deputy and acting chief executive, he served as England's first managing director from 2007 to 2013, during which time the men's team reached number one in the Test rankings, won three Ashes series and the 2010 T20 World Cup.&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;Morris returned to south Wales in 2013 and enjoyed nine years as Glamorgan chief executive.&nbsp;He was diagnosed with bowel cancer in January 2022 and left his role at the Welsh county in September 2023 to spend time with his family as he underwent treatment.&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;"Everyone here at Glamorgan County Cricket Club and further afield are devastated on hearing the awful news about Hugh," said Dan Cherry, who succeeded Morris as Glamorgan chief.&nbsp;"As a player and administrator, Hugh led from the front. He leaves us with an outstanding legacy."&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hugh Morris won three Test caps for England in 1991 as an opening batsman and also led Glamorgan to the Sunday League title two years later as captain.

Glamorgan announced the death of Hugh Morris, the former chief executive of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), at the age of 62 on Sunday. Morris won three Test caps for England in 1991 as an opening batsman and also led Glamorgan to the Sunday League title two years later as captain. After his playing career came to an end, Morris went on to hold a series of senior positions at the ECB. Following a stint as deputy and acting chief executive, he served as England's first managing director from 2007 to 2013, during which time the men's team reached number one in the Test rankings, won three Ashes series and the 2010 T20 World Cup. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Morris returned to south Wales in 2013 and enjoyed nine years as Glamorgan chief executive. He was diagnosed with bowel cancer in January 2022 and left his role at the Welsh county in September 2023 to spend time with his family as he underwent treatment. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes "Everyone here at Glamorgan County Cricket Club and further afield are devastated on hearing the awful news about Hugh," said Dan Cherry, who succeeded Morris as Glamorgan chief. "As a player and administrator, Hugh led from the front. He leaves us with an outstanding legacy." Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Hugh Morris won three Test caps for England in 1991 as an opening batsman and also led Glamorgan to the Sunday League title two years later as captain.

Former England cricket team boss Hugh Morris dies aged 62

Smriti Mandhana joined an elite club of players on Sunday (Dec 28) as India hosted Sri Lanka in the fourth T20I at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The 2025 Women’s World Cup winner was at her fluent best on Sunday, smashing 80 runs off 48 balls, thereby joining elite of players like Mithali Raj, Suzie Bates and Charlotte Edwards. As a result of her knock India scored 221/2 in their 20 overs having batted first.&nbsp;<h2>Mandhana joins elite club</h2>In the fourth contest of the five-match series, the dashing Indian opener looked at her best with the bat and completed 10000 international runs. This saw her become the fourth player to score 10000 international runs. It took the Indian batter 280 matches to reach the feat, having smashed 629 runs in Tests, 5322 runs in ODIs and 4022 runs in T20Is. She is also one of the highest run scorers in the T20Is. Smirti’s innings consisted of 11 fours and 3 sixes as she was striking at 166 with the bat.&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>Most international runs in Women’s Cricket</h2>10868 - Mithali Raj (IND)10652 - Suzie Bates (NZ)10273 - Charlotte Edwards (ENG)10000* - Smriti Mandhana (IND)9301 - Stafanie Taylor (WI)8352 - Meg Lanning (AUS)&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>What happened in the match?</h2>Making her 150th T20I appearance, Chamari Athapaththu’s Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first. A decision that backfired for the visitors as the Indian opening pair put a stand of 162 runs for the opening wicket, Shafali Verma scoring 79 off 46, which included 12 fours and a six. On the other hand, Smriti was also in great nick of form as she scored 80 off 48 for the Women in Blue.&nbsp;Later, Richa Ghosh (40 off 16) and Harmanpreet Kaur (16 off 10) helped India reach 200 in what was another run feast for the home side.

Smriti Mandhana was at her fluent best on Sunday, smashing 80 runs off 48 balls, thereby joining elite of players like Mithali Raj, Suzie Bates and Charlotte Edwards. As a result of her knock India scored 221/2 in their 20 overs having batted first. 

Smriti Mandhana joined an elite club of players on Sunday (Dec 28) as India hosted Sri Lanka in the fourth T20I at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. The 2025 Women’s World Cup winner was at her fluent best on Sunday, smashing 80 runs off 48 balls, thereby joining elite of players like Mithali Raj, Suzie Bates and Charlotte Edwards. As a result of her knock India scored 221/2 in their 20 overs having batted first. Mandhana joins elite club In the fourth contest of the five-match series, the dashing Indian opener looked at her best with the bat and completed 10000 international runs. This saw her become the fourth player to score 10000 international runs. It took the Indian batter 280 matches to reach the feat, having smashed 629 runs in Tests, 5322 runs in ODIs and 4022 runs in T20Is. She is also one of the highest run scorers in the T20Is. Smirti’s innings consisted of 11 fours and 3 sixes as she was striking at 166 with the bat. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Most international runs in Women’s Cricket 10868 - Mithali Raj (IND) 10652 - Suzie Bates (NZ) 10273 - Charlotte Edwards (ENG) 10000* - Smriti Mandhana (IND) 9301 - Stafanie Taylor (WI) 8352 - Meg Lanning (AUS) ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes What happened in the match? Making her 150th T20I appearance, Chamari Athapaththu’s Sri Lanka won the toss and elected to field first. A decision that backfired for the visitors as the Indian opening pair put a stand of 162 runs for the opening wicket, Shafali Verma scoring 79 off 46, which included 12 fours and a six. On the other hand, Smriti was also in great nick of form as she scored 80 off 48 for the Women in Blue. Later, Richa Ghosh (40 off 16) and Harmanpreet Kaur (16 off 10) helped India reach 200 in what was another run feast for the home side.

Smriti Mandhana was at her fluent best on Sunday, smashing 80 runs off 48 balls, thereby joining elite of players like Mithali Raj, Suzie Bates and Charlotte Edwards. As a result of her knock India scored 221/2 in their 20 overs having batted first.&nbsp;

IND-W vs SL-W: Smriti Mandhana joins elite club in fourth T20I, completes 10000 international runs

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was full of praise for the World Cup-winning women’s team after they lifted a maiden title in 2025 November. The women’s team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, had a memorable outing during the tournament as they beat South Africa in the final at the D.Y.Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Ahead of the latest program of the prime minister’s feature show, ‘Maan ki Baat’, Modi expressed great admiration for the women’s side.<h2>PM Modi praises women’s side</h2>"2025 was also a memorable year in terms of sports. Our Men's Cricket team won the ICC Champions' Trophy. The women's cricket team won the World Cup for the first time. The daughters of Bharat created history by winning the women's blind T20 World Cup,” Modi said while addressing the nation in the 129th edition of the 'Mann Ki Baat' programme on Sunday.&nbsp;A feat that could reshape Indian women’s sports, Harmanpreet Kaur was at the centre of attention when ICC Chairman Jay Shah presented her with the World Cup trophy on November 2. However, it was her Lionel Messi-like celebration that caught everyone’s eyes.&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;Having taken the winning catch to dismiss Nadine de Klerk, Harmanpreet Kaur’s India won the final by 52 runs and thus became the new world champions. India also became just the fourth team in women’s contingent to win the World Cup, a feat only achieved by Australia, England and New Zealand.&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;Once the trophy was presented to Harmanpreet, she danced her way to the podium, where other team members were already present. Her march was similar to Lionel Messi, who had helped Argentina win the FIFA World Cup in December 2022.&nbsp;PM Modi also congratulated the Indian women’s team after they had won the title in November.

A feat that could reshape Indian women’s sports, Harmanpreet Kaur was at the centre of attention when ICC Chairman Jay Shah presented her with the World Cup trophy on November 2.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was full of praise for the World Cup-winning women’s team after they lifted a maiden title in 2025 November. The women’s team, led by Harmanpreet Kaur, had a memorable outing during the tournament as they beat South Africa in the final at the D.Y.Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Ahead of the latest program of the prime minister’s feature show, ‘Maan ki Baat’, Modi expressed great admiration for the women’s side. PM Modi praises women’s side "2025 was also a memorable year in terms of sports. Our Men's Cricket team won the ICC Champions' Trophy. The women's cricket team won the World Cup for the first time. The daughters of Bharat created history by winning the women's blind T20 World Cup,” Modi said while addressing the nation in the 129th edition of the 'Mann Ki Baat' programme on Sunday. A feat that could reshape Indian women’s sports, Harmanpreet Kaur was at the centre of attention when ICC Chairman Jay Shah presented her with the World Cup trophy on November 2. However, it was her Lionel Messi-like celebration that caught everyone’s eyes. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes Having taken the winning catch to dismiss Nadine de Klerk, Harmanpreet Kaur’s India won the final by 52 runs and thus became the new world champions. India also became just the fourth team in women’s contingent to win the World Cup, a feat only achieved by Australia, England and New Zealand. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Once the trophy was presented to Harmanpreet, she danced her way to the podium, where other team members were already present. Her march was similar to Lionel Messi, who had helped Argentina win the FIFA World Cup in December 2022. PM Modi also congratulated the Indian women’s team after they had won the title in November.

A feat that could reshape Indian women’s sports, Harmanpreet Kaur was at the centre of attention when ICC Chairman Jay Shah presented her with the World Cup trophy on November 2.

PM Modi praises Indian Women's team for ODI World Cup success, says 'daughters of Bharat created history'

The upcoming year is filled with mega sporting events, starting from as early as February, including a major multi-team cricket event. Check out what highlights the 2026 sporting calendar. 

The upcoming year is filled with mega sporting events, starting from as early as February, including a major multi-team cricket event. Check out what highlights the 2026 sporting calendar.&nbsp;

From FIFA World Cup to Commonwealth Games, here are 5 major sporting events in 2026

The ongoing Ashes have turned foes into friends as Australian opener Travis Head admits to reaching out to his counterpart, England opener Ben Duckett, over the drunken video episode that put him and the touring English side in bad light. Following England's loss in the third Test in Adelaide, ECB managing director Robert Key vowed to investigate reports of English players drinking excessively during a break in the beach town of Noosa; a few unverified videos of drunken Duckett involved in arguments with members of the public went viral soon after, putting him on notice.&nbsp;Speaking on what Duckett must have faced and felt heading into the Boxing Day Test, which England won inside two days, Head revealed, "I get on with Ducky well and reached out to him to see if he was going alright. &nbsp;"Everyone is still human. What you do in your personal time is up to you. &nbsp;"I know we live a high-profile life, and some people are more high-profile than others. At the end of the day, it is a bit stiff, but I don't think there is any real issue,” Head said, as quoted by the BBC.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/ashes-aus-vs-eng-mcg-pitch-curator-disappointed-with-boxing-day-test-result-vows-to-never-1766910623042">Ashes: ‘Shocked’ MCG curator disappointed with Boxing Day Test result, vows to never…</a> &nbsp;After losing the Ashes opener in Perth, which got wrapped up within six sessions, several English players were reportedly drinking heavily during their time on the Queensland coast, raising questions about their seriousness about the series. Although England produced an improved show in the second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, they lost that pink-ball Test, further conceding the Ashes in the third game in Adelaide. &nbsp;England captain Ben Stokes also threw his weight behind Duckett ahead of the Boxing Day Test, admitting to enduring the hardest time as an English skipper while managing the well-being of his teammates. &nbsp;On the other hand, Head, who scored a valiant 46 in the second innings at the MCG, spoke on England breaking the ice and winning a Test match Down Under, their first since 2011. &nbsp;"I was jealous,” Head said. "Everyone has made a lot more out of it than what it should have been. &nbsp;"We have done the same thing on past tours. I don't have an issue with it,” he added. &nbsp;Meanwhile, despite losing the Boxing Day Test to England, Australia lead the five-match series 3-1, with the New Year’s Test awaiting at the SCG, starting early next year.

Under-fire Duckett scored 36 runs across two innings in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. 

The ongoing Ashes have turned foes into friends as Australian opener Travis Head admits to reaching out to his counterpart, England opener Ben Duckett, over the drunken video episode that put him and the touring English side in bad light. Following England's loss in the third Test in Adelaide, ECB managing director Robert Key vowed to investigate reports of English players drinking excessively during a break in the beach town of Noosa; a few unverified videos of drunken Duckett involved in arguments with members of the public went viral soon after, putting him on notice. Speaking on what Duckett must have faced and felt heading into the Boxing Day Test, which England won inside two days, Head revealed, "I get on with Ducky well and reached out to him to see if he was going alright. "Everyone is still human. What you do in your personal time is up to you. "I know we live a high-profile life, and some people are more high-profile than others. At the end of the day, it is a bit stiff, but I don't think there is any real issue,” Head said, as quoted by the BBC. Also read | Ashes: ‘Shocked’ MCG curator disappointed with Boxing Day Test result, vows to never… After losing the Ashes opener in Perth, which got wrapped up within six sessions, several English players were reportedly drinking heavily during their time on the Queensland coast, raising questions about their seriousness about the series. Although England produced an improved show in the second Test at the Gabba in Brisbane, they lost that pink-ball Test, further conceding the Ashes in the third game in Adelaide. England captain Ben Stokes also threw his weight behind Duckett ahead of the Boxing Day Test, admitting to enduring the hardest time as an English skipper while managing the well-being of his teammates. On the other hand, Head, who scored a valiant 46 in the second innings at the MCG, spoke on England breaking the ice and winning a Test match Down Under, their first since 2011. "I was jealous,” Head said. "Everyone has made a lot more out of it than what it should have been. "We have done the same thing on past tours. I don't have an issue with it,” he added. Meanwhile, despite losing the Boxing Day Test to England, Australia lead the five-match series 3-1, with the New Year’s Test awaiting at the SCG, starting early next year.

Under-fire Duckett scored 36 runs across two innings in the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.&nbsp;

Ashes: Ben Duckett finds unlikely support in Travis Head over ‘drinking video’ episode

Social media buzzed with reports of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) holding informal talks with batting giant VVS Laxman over his appointment as Gautam Gambhir’s replacement as Test head coach, only for the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to dismiss such speculations. Saikia has backed Gambhir to continue in his role as the head coach across three formats.&nbsp;Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media. Although Gambhir remained absent for his comments on the same, Saikia squashed all speculations, throwing his weight behind Gautam as the head coach.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-how-much-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-earn-per-match-in-vijay-hazare-trophy-1766894788978">Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy</a> &nbsp;Meanwhile, Laxman has been on BCCI’s radar for Team India’s head coach role for the longest time. Even after Rahul Dravid’s tenure as the head coach, the board is said to have approached him first, but after Laxman denied accepting this role, citing his satisfaction in heading operations at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), the BCCI zeroed in on Gambhir as the new head coach. &nbsp;Speaking to ANI, Saikia dismissed rumours surrounding a change in the leadership despite negative results in the Tests. &nbsp;"This is totally incorrect news going on. This is totally speculative news. Some very reputed news agencies are also flashing the news. There is no truth to it. BCCI straight away denies. People can think all they want, but BCCI has not taken any steps. This is somebody's figment of imagination; there is no truth in it, and I cannot say anything except that this is factually incorrect and baseless news,” the BCCI secretary said.<h2>Gambhir’s future remains gloomy</h2>Gautam has been a fantastic white-ball coach, having led India to two multi-team titles this year – the ICC Champions Trophy crown in Dubai and the 2025 Asia Cup tournament. However, the Indian Team hasn’t tasted similar success in Tests under Gambhir, having lost three Test series since last year, including two at home. Although India managed to draw the five-match Test series in the UK this year, their overall poor record keeps them at the sixth spot on the current World Test Championship (WTC) standings. &nbsp;A PTI report, also carried out by several publications, states that the board is worried about India’s red-ball cricket results; besides, there are chances of them revisiting Gambhir’s contract (as the head coach that runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup) should India fail to lift the trophy at next year’s co-hosted T20 World Cup.&nbsp;

Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media.

Social media buzzed with reports of the Indian Cricket Board (BCCI) holding informal talks with batting giant VVS Laxman over his appointment as Gautam Gambhir’s replacement as Test head coach, only for the BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia to dismiss such speculations. Saikia has backed Gambhir to continue in his role as the head coach across three formats. Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media. Although Gambhir remained absent for his comments on the same, Saikia squashed all speculations, throwing his weight behind Gautam as the head coach. Also read | Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy Meanwhile, Laxman has been on BCCI’s radar for Team India’s head coach role for the longest time. Even after Rahul Dravid’s tenure as the head coach, the board is said to have approached him first, but after Laxman denied accepting this role, citing his satisfaction in heading operations at BCCI’s Centre of Excellence (CoE), the BCCI zeroed in on Gambhir as the new head coach. Speaking to ANI, Saikia dismissed rumours surrounding a change in the leadership despite negative results in the Tests. "This is totally incorrect news going on. This is totally speculative news. Some very reputed news agencies are also flashing the news. There is no truth to it. BCCI straight away denies. People can think all they want, but BCCI has not taken any steps. This is somebody's figment of imagination; there is no truth in it, and I cannot say anything except that this is factually incorrect and baseless news,” the BCCI secretary said. Gambhir’s future remains gloomy Gautam has been a fantastic white-ball coach, having led India to two multi-team titles this year – the ICC Champions Trophy crown in Dubai and the 2025 Asia Cup tournament. However, the Indian Team hasn’t tasted similar success in Tests under Gambhir, having lost three Test series since last year, including two at home. Although India managed to draw the five-match Test series in the UK this year, their overall poor record keeps them at the sixth spot on the current World Test Championship (WTC) standings. A PTI report, also carried out by several publications, states that the board is worried about India’s red-ball cricket results; besides, there are chances of them revisiting Gambhir’s contract (as the head coach that runs until the 2027 ODI World Cup) should India fail to lift the trophy at next year’s co-hosted T20 World Cup.

Shortly after South Africa whitewashed India in away Tests (2-0), beating them in Kolkata and Guwahati, rumours of the Indian Cricket Board deciding to look beyond Gambhir in Tests did the rounds on social media.

BCCI secretary denies ‘informal talks with Laxman’ reports, backs Gambhir as all-format coach

Australian pace legend Brett Lee has been inducted into the Hall of Fame after serving the nation on the field for more than a decade in the 2000s. Lee, who was a member of the Australian side that won the 2003 and 2007 World Cup represented the national side in all three formats with more than 300 aggregate appearances across the formats. Lee retired from the game in 2012 was the nation’s highest wicket-taker in ODIs.<h2>Lee inducted in Australian Hall of Fame</h2>“That (160 km/h) means more to me than any wicket I’ve taken. Of course, the team comes first — to win the (2003) World Cup, the 16 straight Test wins, that’s the pinnacle; that’s why you play the game. But in terms of personal milestones, it wasn’t wickets for me. Because I’d set my goal at such a young age to hit that 160 km/h barrier and to go past it, when you dream about something, you dedicate your life to achieving that dream, and when it comes off, it’s very special,” Lee told cricket.com.au.&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;The former pacer represented Australia in 76 Tests, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is, amassing a combined total of 718 wickets. Lee made his debut for Australia in 1999 against India in the Boxing Day Test before ending his red-ball career at the same venue of Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2008 against Australia.&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;Lee would later retire from the white-ball format in 2012, dropping curtains on a successful career. His last game for the national side was against England at Chester-le-Street, officially announcing retirement in ODIs.&nbsp;With 380 wickets in ODIs for Australia, he topped the chart for most wickets ahead of Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne in the format. He was also rewarded with the Allan Border medal for Best Test Player of the Year in 2008.&nbsp;

Brett Lee represented Australia in 76 Tests, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is, amassing a combined total of 718 wickets. 

Australian pace legend Brett Lee has been inducted into the Hall of Fame after serving the nation on the field for more than a decade in the 2000s. Lee, who was a member of the Australian side that won the 2003 and 2007 World Cup represented the national side in all three formats with more than 300 aggregate appearances across the formats. Lee retired from the game in 2012 was the nation’s highest wicket-taker in ODIs. Lee inducted in Australian Hall of Fame “That (160 km/h) means more to me than any wicket I’ve taken. Of course, the team comes first — to win the (2003) World Cup, the 16 straight Test wins, that’s the pinnacle; that’s why you play the game. But in terms of personal milestones, it wasn’t wickets for me. Because I’d set my goal at such a young age to hit that 160 km/h barrier and to go past it, when you dream about something, you dedicate your life to achieving that dream, and when it comes off, it’s very special,” Lee told cricket.com.au. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes The former pacer represented Australia in 76 Tests, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is, amassing a combined total of 718 wickets. Lee made his debut for Australia in 1999 against India in the Boxing Day Test before ending his red-ball career at the same venue of Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in 2008 against Australia. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Lee would later retire from the white-ball format in 2012, dropping curtains on a successful career. His last game for the national side was against England at Chester-le-Street, officially announcing retirement in ODIs. With 380 wickets in ODIs for Australia, he topped the chart for most wickets ahead of Glenn McGrath and Shane Warne in the format. He was also rewarded with the Allan Border medal for Best Test Player of the Year in 2008.

Brett Lee represented Australia in 76 Tests, 221 ODIs and 25 T20Is, amassing a combined total of 718 wickets.&nbsp;

Legendary speedster Brett Lee inducted into Australian cricket Hall of Fame

For the second time in a month, an Ashes Test was done inside two days, this time at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). If only the Ashes opener in Perth was looked down as a shallow moment in Test history, 36 wickets falling inside 142 overs across four innings and five sessions in the Boxing Day Test raised eyebrows all over. The fourth Test at the iconic ‘G’ was over even before anyone realised, and the person behind preparing the pitch that became the talking point, Matt Page, was all but shocked and disappointed with the result.&nbsp;While the MCG pitch received widespread criticism across both camps, with England captain Ben Stokes and Australia’s stand-in skipper Steve Smith coming down hard on the 10mm grass that Page kept (on the pitch) for the Boxing Day Test, he has received little backing from Australian opener Travis Head. His decision to leave that amount of grass cost Cricket Australia (CA) AUS$10mn, with Smith saying a marginal difference (had it been 8mm instead of 10) would have been better, and challenging at the same time.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ashes-cricket-australia-ceo-hints-at-intervening-on-pitches-says-short-tests-are-bad-for-business-1766812121423">Ashes: Cricket Australia CEO hints at intervening on pitches, says ‘short Tests are bad for business’</a> &nbsp;"It probably offered just a little bit too much… Maybe if you took it from 10 to 8mm, it would have been a nice, challenging wicket - maybe a little bit more even,” Smith said about the MCG pitch. &nbsp;Speaking of the game’s outcome and how he felt about it, Page said, "I was in a state of shock after the first day, to see everything that happened, 20 wickets in a day. I've never been involved in a Test match like it, and hopefully never involved in a Test match like it again. &nbsp;"Every year is different, and the margins are very small, but in the back of your mind, you're always trying to provide that contest. We're about trying to provide captivating Test cricket, that balance between bat and ball going four or five days. &nbsp;"We've produced a Test that's been captivating, but it hasn't gone long enough, and we'll take ownership of that. We'll learn from it, we'll grow, and we'll make sure that we'll get it right next year,” he continued. &nbsp;On the other hand, Travis Head, who opened across both innings, put a supportive arm around Page’s neck, lending him support.&nbsp; &nbsp;"I feel for him [Page]. It's bloody tough. You leave 1-2mm on with high-quality bowling, and you find yourself short, and you take 2-3mm off with high-quality batting, and you leave yourself the other way,” Head said. &nbsp;Meanwhile, England won the MCG Test by four wickets - their first win Down Under in 14 years, and despite that, trailing the away Ashes (1-3), with one Test remaining.

20 wickets fell on day one of the MCG Test, with the remaining 16 inside three sessions on day two.

For the second time in a month, an Ashes Test was done inside two days, this time at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). If only the Ashes opener in Perth was looked down as a shallow moment in Test history, 36 wickets falling inside 142 overs across four innings and five sessions in the Boxing Day Test raised eyebrows all over. The fourth Test at the iconic ‘G’ was over even before anyone realised, and the person behind preparing the pitch that became the talking point, Matt Page, was all but shocked and disappointed with the result. While the MCG pitch received widespread criticism across both camps, with England captain Ben Stokes and Australia’s stand-in skipper Steve Smith coming down hard on the 10mm grass that Page kept (on the pitch) for the Boxing Day Test, he has received little backing from Australian opener Travis Head. His decision to leave that amount of grass cost Cricket Australia (CA) AUS$10mn, with Smith saying a marginal difference (had it been 8mm instead of 10) would have been better, and challenging at the same time. Also read | Ashes: Cricket Australia CEO hints at intervening on pitches, says ‘short Tests are bad for business’ "It probably offered just a little bit too much… Maybe if you took it from 10 to 8mm, it would have been a nice, challenging wicket - maybe a little bit more even,” Smith said about the MCG pitch. Speaking of the game’s outcome and how he felt about it, Page said, "I was in a state of shock after the first day, to see everything that happened, 20 wickets in a day. I've never been involved in a Test match like it, and hopefully never involved in a Test match like it again. "Every year is different, and the margins are very small, but in the back of your mind, you're always trying to provide that contest. We're about trying to provide captivating Test cricket, that balance between bat and ball going four or five days. "We've produced a Test that's been captivating, but it hasn't gone long enough, and we'll take ownership of that. We'll learn from it, we'll grow, and we'll make sure that we'll get it right next year,” he continued. On the other hand, Travis Head, who opened across both innings, put a supportive arm around Page’s neck, lending him support. "I feel for him [Page]. It's bloody tough. You leave 1-2mm on with high-quality bowling, and you find yourself short, and you take 2-3mm off with high-quality batting, and you leave yourself the other way,” Head said. Meanwhile, England won the MCG Test by four wickets - their first win Down Under in 14 years, and despite that, trailing the away Ashes (1-3), with one Test remaining.

20 wickets fell on day one of the MCG Test, with the remaining 16 inside three sessions on day two.

Ashes: ‘Shocked’ MCG curator disappointed with Boxing Day Test result, vows to never…

Duan Jansen delivered a career-best T20 performance to drive Joburg Super Kings to a historic 22-run run victory over Pretoria Capitals in the second match of Betway SA20 Season 4 on Saturday. It was the Super Kings’ first victory at their Highveld rivals' home ground Centurion in four seasons. The match was dominated by the ball with Player of the Match, Jansen who ran through the Pretoria Capitals middle-order with figures of 4/23.&nbsp;The Capitals were well-placed to chase down Joburg Super Kings 168/6 after a 71-run opening stand between Will Smeed (34 off 30 balls) and Bryce Parsons (41 off 30 balls). They moved comfortably to 86/2 in the 12th over, but it was this juncture that the Super Kings roared back into the contest when Janco Smit (1/37) silenced the Centurion crowd when the young seam bowler spoiled Dewald Brevis’ homecoming.&nbsp;&nbsp;It was the start of a slide that saw the Capitals lose five wickets for just 28 runs with Jansen being the chief destroyer. Jansen had already picked up West Indian Shai Hope in his first spell before returning to pick up the crucial scalp of Bryce Parsons (41 off 30 balls).&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/here-is-how-much-virat-kohli-rohit-sharma-earn-per-match-in-vijay-hazare-trophy-1766894788978">Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy</a>&nbsp;The lanky left-arm seamer gained further success when he clean bowled both Connor Esterhuizen and Daniel Smith to bring the Capitals’ resistance to a close.&nbsp;The four Player of the Match candidates were Duan Jansen, Tymal Mills, Wiaan Mulder and Bryce Parsons with Jansen winning 83.2% of the fan vote.&nbsp;The Capitals had earlier won the toss and elected to bowl first under sunny skies at Centurion, with new English import Tymal Mills making an immediate impression when he struck Joburg Super Kings captain Faf du Plessis with a rising delivery on the wrist.&nbsp;&nbsp;It set the tone for the Capitals with the Super Kings losing both openers Du Plessis and Matt de Villiers with just 16 runs on the board before the experienced Rilee Rossouw (48 off 33 balls) and Wiaan Mulder (43 off 28 balls) rebuilt the innings with a 78-run partnership off only 54 balls for the third wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;Although Mills returned to the attack to remove Rossouw, the Super Kings had put themselves into a strong position that set up Akeal Hosein (22 not out off 10 balls) and Dian Forrester (10 not out off seven balls) to push the visitors up to an unbeatable total.

It was the Super Kings’ first victory at their Highveld rivals' home ground, Centurion, in four seasons, where the match was dominated by Jansen, who ran through the Pretoria Capitals middle-order with figures of 4/23.

Duan Jansen delivered a career-best T20 performance to drive Joburg Super Kings to a historic 22-run run victory over Pretoria Capitals in the second match of Betway SA20 Season 4 on Saturday. It was the Super Kings’ first victory at their Highveld rivals' home ground Centurion in four seasons. The match was dominated by the ball with Player of the Match, Jansen who ran through the Pretoria Capitals middle-order with figures of 4/23. The Capitals were well-placed to chase down Joburg Super Kings 168/6 after a 71-run opening stand between Will Smeed (34 off 30 balls) and Bryce Parsons (41 off 30 balls). They moved comfortably to 86/2 in the 12th over, but it was this juncture that the Super Kings roared back into the contest when Janco Smit (1/37) silenced the Centurion crowd when the young seam bowler spoiled Dewald Brevis’ homecoming. It was the start of a slide that saw the Capitals lose five wickets for just 28 runs with Jansen being the chief destroyer. Jansen had already picked up West Indian Shai Hope in his first spell before returning to pick up the crucial scalp of Bryce Parsons (41 off 30 balls). Also read | Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy The lanky left-arm seamer gained further success when he clean bowled both Connor Esterhuizen and Daniel Smith to bring the Capitals’ resistance to a close. The four Player of the Match candidates were Duan Jansen, Tymal Mills, Wiaan Mulder and Bryce Parsons with Jansen winning 83.2% of the fan vote. The Capitals had earlier won the toss and elected to bowl first under sunny skies at Centurion, with new English import Tymal Mills making an immediate impression when he struck Joburg Super Kings captain Faf du Plessis with a rising delivery on the wrist. It set the tone for the Capitals with the Super Kings losing both openers Du Plessis and Matt de Villiers with just 16 runs on the board before the experienced Rilee Rossouw (48 off 33 balls) and Wiaan Mulder (43 off 28 balls) rebuilt the innings with a 78-run partnership off only 54 balls for the third wicket. Although Mills returned to the attack to remove Rossouw, the Super Kings had put themselves into a strong position that set up Akeal Hosein (22 not out off 10 balls) and Dian Forrester (10 not out off seven balls) to push the visitors up to an unbeatable total.

It was the Super Kings’ first victory at their Highveld rivals' home ground, Centurion, in four seasons, where the match was dominated by Jansen, who ran through the Pretoria Capitals middle-order with figures of 4/23.

SA20: Duan Jansen drives JSK to historic win over Capitals at Centurion

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma returned to playing the Vijay Hazare Trophy tournament for the first time in many years. While Rohit represented Mumbai for the first time since the 2017-18 edition, Kohli featured for his state team, Delhi, for the first time in 15 years. They both made emphatic returns to this competition, smashing respective centuries in their first outings and making headlines all over. With both scheduled to feature for a few more matches before returning to international duties, let’s check out their per-match earnings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.&nbsp;Unlike in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where a full-scale player auction determines each picked player’s salary, match-wise earnings in this tournament are shaped by a defined framework. For the current season, a tiered system based on a player’s List A appearances determines his match fees. Experience, and not star power or a bigger name that draws a crowd, decides pay, which automatically puts the two veterans in the highest bracket.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/india-announce-squad-for-icc-u19-world-cup-2026-check-india-s-schedule-1766853431525">India announce squad for ICC U19 World Cup 2026, check India’s schedule</a> &nbsp;The first is the senior category with over 40 List A matches, where the players earn INR 60,000 per match (if they are part of the playing XI) and INR 30,000 if they are among the reserves. Secondly, those with 21-40 List A matches are classified as mid-level players, pocketing INR 50,000 per match and INR 25,000 as reserves. The third category is that of a junior bracket, consisting of players who have played less than 20 List A matches, earning INR 40,000 per match (those in the XI) and INR 20,000 (among the reserves). &nbsp;Compared to their salaries as international cricketers (INR 6 lakh per ODI) and elite players in the cash-rich Indian Premier League, where they earn bonkers money, the two are earning the same match fee as their fellow seasoned domestic cricketers.&nbsp; Virat, with 344 List A matches and Rohit, with 352 to his name, earn INR 60,000 per match each in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. &nbsp;Meanwhile, the two also earn more than match fees, including receiving daily allowances that cover food, travel and accommodation during the tournament. Individual brilliances also add up to personal rewards, including the Player of the Match awards, typically carrying a cash prize of INR 10,000.&nbsp; &nbsp;The teams that advance into the knockout stages also benefit from the prize money, shared among the players and the support staff.&nbsp;

Unlike in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where a full-scale player auction determines each picked player’s salary, match-wise earnings in this tournament are shaped by a defined framework.

Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma returned to playing the Vijay Hazare Trophy tournament for the first time in many years. While Rohit represented Mumbai for the first time since the 2017-18 edition, Kohli featured for his state team, Delhi, for the first time in 15 years. They both made emphatic returns to this competition, smashing respective centuries in their first outings and making headlines all over. With both scheduled to feature for a few more matches before returning to international duties, let’s check out their per-match earnings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Unlike in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where a full-scale player auction determines each picked player’s salary, match-wise earnings in this tournament are shaped by a defined framework. For the current season, a tiered system based on a player’s List A appearances determines his match fees. Experience, and not star power or a bigger name that draws a crowd, decides pay, which automatically puts the two veterans in the highest bracket. Also read | India announce squad for ICC U19 World Cup 2026, check India’s schedule The first is the senior category with over 40 List A matches, where the players earn INR 60,000 per match (if they are part of the playing XI) and INR 30,000 if they are among the reserves. Secondly, those with 21-40 List A matches are classified as mid-level players, pocketing INR 50,000 per match and INR 25,000 as reserves. The third category is that of a junior bracket, consisting of players who have played less than 20 List A matches, earning INR 40,000 per match (those in the XI) and INR 20,000 (among the reserves). Compared to their salaries as international cricketers (INR 6 lakh per ODI) and elite players in the cash-rich Indian Premier League, where they earn bonkers money, the two are earning the same match fee as their fellow seasoned domestic cricketers. Virat, with 344 List A matches and Rohit, with 352 to his name, earn INR 60,000 per match each in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Meanwhile, the two also earn more than match fees, including receiving daily allowances that cover food, travel and accommodation during the tournament. Individual brilliances also add up to personal rewards, including the Player of the Match awards, typically carrying a cash prize of INR 10,000. The teams that advance into the knockout stages also benefit from the prize money, shared among the players and the support staff.

Unlike in the Indian Premier League (IPL), where a full-scale player auction determines each picked player’s salary, match-wise earnings in this tournament are shaped by a defined framework.

Here's how much Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma earn per match in Vijay Hazare Trophy

Five-time champions India have announced their squad for the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026, which is set to be held in Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15 to February 6. The tournament will feature 16 teams divided into four groups, followed by the Super Six stage, semi-finals, and the final in Harare. &nbsp;India has been placed in Group B alongside New Zealand, the USA, and Bangladesh.&nbsp;&nbsp;Skipper Ayush Mhatre will lead the team, with Vihaan Malhotra serving as his deputy, though both will miss the pre-World Cup ODI series in South Africa due to wrist injuries. The duo will continue treatment at the BCCI Centre of Excellence before joining the squad for the World Cup. For the South Africa series, Suryavanshi will step in as captain, with Aaron George appointed as vice-captain.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-was-mahbub-ali-zaki-the-man-behind-taskin-ahmed-s-comeback-in-international-cricket-1766836937168">Who was Mahbub Ali Zaki? The man behind Taskin Ahmed’s comeback in international cricket</a><h2>India U19 Fixtures at ICC World Cup 2026</h2>India will begin their ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 campaign against the USA on January 15 at the Queen’s Sports Club in Bulawayo. The second group-stage match is scheduled against Bangladesh on January 17 at the same venue. India will then face New Zealand on January 24, completing their group-stage fixtures. These games will be crucial for India to build momentum and secure a strong position ahead of the Super Six stage.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">🚨 News 🚨 India&#39;s U19 squad for South Africa tour and ICC Men’s U19 World Cup announced. Details▶️<a href="https://t.co/z21VRlpvjg">https://t.co/z21VRlpvjg</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/U19WorldCup?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#U19WorldCup</a> <a href="https://t.co/bL8pkT5Ca2">pic.twitter.com/bL8pkT5Ca2</a>&mdash; BCCI (@BCCI) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCCI/status/2004919294917050599?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Meanwhile, the team also includes wicket-keeper Abhigyan Kundu, who impressed in the U19 Asia Cup with a stunning unbeaten 209 against Malaysia. Aaron George was the top scorer for India in the Asia Cup, while two new players, R.S. Ambrish and Mohamed Enaan, have replaced Yuvraj Gohil and Naman Pushpak from the Asia Cup squad. This blend of youth and experience gives India the chance to test combinations and prepare well ahead of the global event.&nbsp;India U19’s focus will be on starting the tournament strongly in Zimbabwe, with the South Africa ODI series serving as an important warm-up.&nbsp;

India U19 will face USA, Bangladesh, and New Zealand in group-stage matches at the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 in Bulawayo. Key fixtures from Jan 15-24 set the stage for Super Six advancement.

Five-time champions India have announced their squad for the ICC Men’s Under-19 World Cup 2026, which is set to be held in Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15 to February 6. The tournament will feature 16 teams divided into four groups, followed by the Super Six stage, semi-finals, and the final in Harare. India has been placed in Group B alongside New Zealand, the USA, and Bangladesh. Skipper Ayush Mhatre will lead the team, with Vihaan Malhotra serving as his deputy, though both will miss the pre-World Cup ODI series in South Africa due to wrist injuries. The duo will continue treatment at the BCCI Centre of Excellence before joining the squad for the World Cup. For the South Africa series, Suryavanshi will step in as captain, with Aaron George appointed as vice-captain. Also read | Who was Mahbub Ali Zaki? The man behind Taskin Ahmed’s comeback in international cricket India U19 Fixtures at ICC World Cup 2026 India will begin their ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026 campaign against the USA on January 15 at the Queen’s Sports Club in Bulawayo. The second group-stage match is scheduled against Bangladesh on January 17 at the same venue. India will then face New Zealand on January 24, completing their group-stage fixtures. These games will be crucial for India to build momentum and secure a strong position ahead of the Super Six stage.

India U19 will face USA, Bangladesh, and New Zealand in group-stage matches at the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 in Bulawayo. Key fixtures from Jan 15-24 set the stage for Super Six advancement.

India announce squad for ICC U19 World Cup 2026, check India’s schedule

Young Indian batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been named captain of the India Under-19 team for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, marking another big step in his fast-rising cricket journey. The five-match series will be played from January 3 to 7 at Willowmoore Park in Benoni and will serve as key preparation ahead of the ICC Under-19 World Cup. Suryavanshi takes charge of the team in the absence of regular captain Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out of the South Africa tour due to a wrist injury.&nbsp;&nbsp;Aaron George has been named vice-captain for the ODI series. While Mhatre will miss this assignment, he is expected to recover in time for the Under-19 World Cup later next year. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squads for both the South Africa ODIs and the Under-19 World Cup together, highlighting the importance of planning and balance ahead of the global event. Suryavanshi’s captaincy is seen as a reward for his consistent performances and growing influence over the past season.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-was-mahbub-ali-zaki-the-man-behind-taskin-ahmed-s-comeback-in-international-cricket-1766836937168">Who was Mahbub Ali Zaki? The man behind Taskin Ahmed’s comeback in international cricket</a>&nbsp;The young batter recently caught the spotlight with a stunning innings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Representing Bihar against Arunachal Pradesh in Ranchi, he smashed 190 runs off just 84 balls. His knock included 16 fours and 15 sixes and helped Bihar record a huge 397-run victory. During that innings, Suryavanshi also reached his century in just 36 balls, the second-fastest List A hundred by an Indian.&nbsp;His rise has not been limited to one tournament. Suryavanshi was earlier named Bihar’s vice-captain for the opening rounds of the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy season, showing the faith selectors and team officials have in his abilities. His leadership role has steadily grown at both domestic and junior levels.&nbsp;India will miss Ayush Mhatre and Vihaan Malhotra on the South Africa tour, as both players are recovering from wrist injuries. They will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for treatment before rejoining the squad for the Under-19 World Cup.&nbsp;With a mix of new faces and proven performers, the South Africa series offers India a chance to test combinations. For Suryavanshi, it is a chance to lead from the front and continue his impressive run before the World Cup.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been named India U19 captain for the South Africa ODI series. The young batter earns the role after strong domestic form ahead of the Under-19 World Cup.


Young Indian batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been named captain of the India Under-19 team for the upcoming ODI series against South Africa, marking another big step in his fast-rising cricket journey. The five-match series will be played from January 3 to 7 at Willowmoore Park in Benoni and will serve as key preparation ahead of the ICC Under-19 World Cup. Suryavanshi takes charge of the team in the absence of regular captain Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out of the South Africa tour due to a wrist injury. Aaron George has been named vice-captain for the ODI series. While Mhatre will miss this assignment, he is expected to recover in time for the Under-19 World Cup later next year. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the squads for both the South Africa ODIs and the Under-19 World Cup together, highlighting the importance of planning and balance ahead of the global event. Suryavanshi’s captaincy is seen as a reward for his consistent performances and growing influence over the past season. Also read | Who was Mahbub Ali Zaki? The man behind Taskin Ahmed’s comeback in international cricket The young batter recently caught the spotlight with a stunning innings in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Representing Bihar against Arunachal Pradesh in Ranchi, he smashed 190 runs off just 84 balls. His knock included 16 fours and 15 sixes and helped Bihar record a huge 397-run victory. During that innings, Suryavanshi also reached his century in just 36 balls, the second-fastest List A hundred by an Indian. His rise has not been limited to one tournament. Suryavanshi was earlier named Bihar’s vice-captain for the opening rounds of the 2025–26 Ranji Trophy season, showing the faith selectors and team officials have in his abilities. His leadership role has steadily grown at both domestic and junior levels. India will miss Ayush Mhatre and Vihaan Malhotra on the South Africa tour, as both players are recovering from wrist injuries. They will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for treatment before rejoining the squad for the Under-19 World Cup. With a mix of new faces and proven performers, the South Africa series offers India a chance to test combinations. For Suryavanshi, it is a chance to lead from the front and continue his impressive run before the World Cup.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi has been named India U19 captain for the South Africa ODI series. The young batter earns the role after strong domestic form ahead of the Under-19 World Cup.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi to lead India U19 in South Africa ODIs ahead of U19 World Cup

From Matt Henry to Bernard Scholtz, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most ODI wickets in 2025. This list also includes Adil Rashid, Jayden Seales and Mitchell Santner

From Matt Henry to Bernard Scholtz, here's a look at the top five bowlers with most ODI wickets in 2025. This list also includes Adil Rashid, Jayden Seales and Mitchell Santner

Meet top 5 bowlers with most ODI wickets in 2025

Bangladesh cricket was left in shock on Saturday (Dec 27), as Mahbub Ali Zaki, assistant coach of Dhaka Capitals, passed away at the age of 59. The veteran coach suffered a sudden heart attack during pre-match warm-ups at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium ahead of the BPL clash against Rajshahi Warriors. Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Al Haramain Hospital, Zaki was pronounced dead on arrival. Players, coaches, and match officials observed a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect.&nbsp;Zaki’s sudden passing is a huge loss to Bangladesh cricket, where he was widely regarded not only for his expertise but also for his dedication to nurturing young fast bowlers. He had been an integral part of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for over 17 years, shaping the pace attack of the national team and helping emerging talents achieve their potential.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/six-hitter-of-2025-pakistan-s-farhan-stands-fifth-guess-who-takes-the-top-spot-1766834604093">Six-hitter of 2025: Pakistan’s Farhan stands fifth, guess who takes the top spot?</a><h2>Man Behind Taskin Ahmed’s Comeback</h2>Before his coaching career, Mahbub Ali Zaki was a right-arm fast bowler who represented Comilla District in the National Cricket Championship and played for major Dhaka Premier Division clubs, including Abahani Limited and Dhanmondi. His playing days laid the foundation for a deep understanding of pace bowling, which he carried into coaching.&nbsp;Joining the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in 2008 as a high-performance coach, Zaki later became a ‘Specialist Pace Bowling Coach’ in the Game Development Department. He gained national recognition for his work with Taskin Ahmed during the 2016 T20 World Cup, when Taskin’s bowling action was reported as illegal. Zaki worked closely with Taskin to remodel his action, enabling the young pacer to return to international cricket successfully.<h2>Vision for Pace Academy</h2>Known for his discipline, work ethic, and approachable nature, Zaki had long-term plans to establish a dedicated fast-bowling academy in Bangladesh, inspired by India’s MRF Pace Foundation. His commitment to developing fast-bowling talent and his impact on players’ careers made him one of the most respected figures in Bangladeshi cricket.

Mahbub Ali Zaki, Bangladesh’s respected fast-bowling coach, passed away suddenly during BPL 2025. Known for mentoring Taskin Ahmed, he spent more than 17 years shaping the nation’s pace bowling talent.

Bangladesh cricket was left in shock on Saturday (Dec 27), as Mahbub Ali Zaki, assistant coach of Dhaka Capitals, passed away at the age of 59. The veteran coach suffered a sudden heart attack during pre-match warm-ups at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium ahead of the BPL clash against Rajshahi Warriors. Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Al Haramain Hospital, Zaki was pronounced dead on arrival. Players, coaches, and match officials observed a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect. Zaki’s sudden passing is a huge loss to Bangladesh cricket, where he was widely regarded not only for his expertise but also for his dedication to nurturing young fast bowlers. He had been an integral part of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) for over 17 years, shaping the pace attack of the national team and helping emerging talents achieve their potential. Also read | Six-hitter of 2025: Pakistan’s Farhan stands fifth, guess who takes the top spot? Man Behind Taskin Ahmed’s Comeback Before his coaching career, Mahbub Ali Zaki was a right-arm fast bowler who represented Comilla District in the National Cricket Championship and played for major Dhaka Premier Division clubs, including Abahani Limited and Dhanmondi. His playing days laid the foundation for a deep understanding of pace bowling, which he carried into coaching. Joining the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in 2008 as a high-performance coach, Zaki later became a ‘Specialist Pace Bowling Coach’ in the Game Development Department. He gained national recognition for his work with Taskin Ahmed during the 2016 T20 World Cup, when Taskin’s bowling action was reported as illegal. Zaki worked closely with Taskin to remodel his action, enabling the young pacer to return to international cricket successfully. Vision for Pace Academy Known for his discipline, work ethic, and approachable nature, Zaki had long-term plans to establish a dedicated fast-bowling academy in Bangladesh, inspired by India’s MRF Pace Foundation. His commitment to developing fast-bowling talent and his impact on players’ careers made him one of the most respected figures in Bangladeshi cricket.

Mahbub Ali Zaki, Bangladesh’s respected fast-bowling coach, passed away suddenly during BPL 2025. Known for mentoring Taskin Ahmed, he spent more than 17 years shaping the nation’s pace bowling talent.

Who was Mahbub Ali Zaki? The man behind Taskin Ahmed’s comeback in international cricket

Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki tragically passed away on Saturday (Dec 27) after collapsing on the field before his team’s Bangladesh Premier League match against the Rajshahi Warriors in Sylhet. According to local media reports he suffered a heart attack. Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Al Haramain Hospital, Zaki was pronounced dead on arrival. Players, coaches and match officials observed a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">The Bangladesh Cricket Board deeply mourns the passing of Mahbub Ali Zaki (59), Specialist Pace Bowling Coach of the BCB Game Development Department and Assistant Coach of Dhaka Capitals in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 2026. He passed away today, 27 December 2025, in… <a href="https://t.co/KVv9FwrWOF">pic.twitter.com/KVv9FwrWOF</a>&mdash; Bangladesh Cricket (@BCBtigers) <a href="https://twitter.com/BCBtigers/status/2004829734606438675?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The BCB, where Zaki was employed for the last 17 years, posted on social media: "Following his playing career, Mahbub Ali Zaki dedicated himself to coaching and player development. He joined the BCB in 2008 as a High Performance coach and went on to make a significant contribution to the growth of pace bowling in the country through his work."&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/who-was-mahbub-ali-zaki-the-man-behind-taskin-ahmed-s-comeback-in-international-cricket-1766836937168">Who was Mahbub Ali Zaki? The man behind Taskin Ahmed’s comeback in international cricket</a>&nbsp;Before becoming a coach, Mahbub Ali Zaki was a right-arm fast bowler and played for Comilla District in the National Cricket Championship and also featured for top Dhaka Premier Division teams such as Abahani Limited and Dhanmondi. His time as a player helped him to build strong knowledge of fast bowling, which later shaped his coaching career.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-star-australian-batter-tim-david-suffers-injury-ahead-of-t20-world-cup-2026-1766831776422">WATCH | Star Australian batter Tim David suffers injury ahead of T20 World Cup 2026</a>&nbsp;Zaki joined the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) in 2008 as a high-performance coach. He later took on the role of Specialist Pace Bowling Coach in the Game Development Department and became widely known for helping Taskin Ahmed during the 2016 T20 World Cup, after Taskin’s bowling action was questioned by the ICC governing body.&nbsp;&nbsp;Zaki worked closely with him to correct the action, enabling the young pacer to return to international cricket successfully.

Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Al Haramain Hospital, Zaki was pronounced dead on arrival. Players, coaches and match officials observed a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect.

Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki tragically passed away on Saturday (Dec 27) after collapsing on the field before his team’s Bangladesh Premier League match against the Rajshahi Warriors in Sylhet. According to local media reports he suffered a heart attack. Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Al Haramain Hospital, Zaki was pronounced dead on arrival. Players, coaches and match officials observed a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect.

Despite immediate CPR and being rushed to Al Haramain Hospital, Zaki was pronounced dead on arrival. Players, coaches and match officials observed a minute’s silence before the game as a mark of respect.

Bangladesh Premier League: Dhaka Capitals' assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki collapses before game, dies

From Kagiso Rabada to Sunil Narine, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Lasith Malinga, Khaleel Ahmed and Imran Tahir

From Kagiso Rabada to Sunil Narine, here's a look at the top five bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in Indian Premier League. This list also includes Lasith Malinga, Khaleel Ahmed and Imran Tahir

Meet top 5 bowlers fastest to 50 wickets in Indian Premier League

Australia’s build-up to the T20 World Cup has taken a hit after their star middle-order batter Tim David likely injured his hamstring while playing in the Big Bash League, raising questions about his fitness for the upcoming tournament, which is nearly two months away. David batted well for the Hobart Hurricanes in their win over the Perth Scorchers in Perth when he likely injured himself. The 29-year-old felt pain while running a quick second run. After being treated on the field, he had to retire hurt on 42 off 28 balls and walked off the field, looking clearly disappointed.&nbsp;<h2>Watch the video</h2>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">Drama at Optus Stadium. Tim David has left the field with what looks to be a hamstring injury. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BBL15?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BBL15</a> <a href="https://t.co/UEIObKHnDr">pic.twitter.com/UEIObKHnDr</a>&mdash; KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) <a href="https://twitter.com/BBL/status/2004542739958865972?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 26, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

The Hurricanes later confirmed that David will undergo scans to find out how serious the injury is. This is also a concern for Australia, with the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka starting on February 7.&nbsp;“I just felt a little bit of something when I was trying to come back for two...It’s not ideal, but I didn’t want to make it worse. We’ll wait and see," David told Channel 7 after the match."&nbsp;&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-updated-wtc-standings-england-halt-australia-s-perfect-record-with-boxing-day-test-win-india-stay-sixth-1766819292554">WTC standings: England halt Australia's perfect record with Boxing Day Test win</a>&nbsp;This is David’s second hamstring injury this year. Earlier, he suffered a major strain during the Indian Premier League that kept him out for two months and forced him to miss the playoffs for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.&nbsp;&nbsp;After he returned, Cricket Australia managed his workload carefully and later he played only three matches in the five-match T20I series against the West Indies.&nbsp;Also Read - <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/cricket-ashes-england-end-winless-streak-on-australian-soil-clinch-boxing-day-test-on-day-2-josh-tongue-gus-atkinson-ben-stokes-1766814817353">Ashes: England end winless streak in Australia, clinch Boxing Day Test on Day 2</a><h2>David's T20I stats</h2>David has represented Australia in 68 T20Is and scored 1,596 runs at an average of 36.30 and a strike rate of 168.90. His tally also includes nine half-centuries and a century.

This is David’s second hamstring injury this year. Earlier, he suffered a major strain during the Indian Premier League that kept him out for two months and forced him to miss the playoffs for Royal Challengers Bengaluru. 

Australia’s build-up to the T20 World Cup has taken a hit after their star middle-order batter Tim David likely injured his hamstring while playing in the Big Bash League, raising questions about his fitness for the upcoming tournament, which is nearly two months away. David batted well for the Hobart Hurricanes in their win over the Perth Scorchers in Perth when he likely injured himself. The 29-year-old felt pain while running a quick second run. After being treated on the field, he had to retire hurt on 42 off 28 balls and walked off the field, looking clearly disappointed. Watch the video

This is David’s second hamstring injury this year. Earlier, he suffered a major strain during the Indian Premier League that kept him out for two months and forced him to miss the playoffs for Royal Challengers Bengaluru.&nbsp;

WATCH | Star Australian batter Tim David suffers injury ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

The Boxing Day Test match between Australia and England was a quick wrap as it ended with two days on Saturday (Dec 27). With the match ending in two days, organisers were hit with a major loss as there will be no play on Sunday between Australia and England in the Ashes. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg has now raised concerns for the future of Test cricket despite a record crowd.<h2>Test cricket in danger?</h2>"Short Tests are bad for business," said Greenberg while speaking to the media on Day 2. "The short answer for that, in my opinion, is yes," Greenberg said. "As mesmerising and fascinating and enjoyable as it was to watch as a fan, we want Test cricket clearly to go for longer.&nbsp;"A simple phrase I'd use is short. Tests are bad for business. I can't be much more blunt than that. So I would like to see a slightly broader balance between the bat and the ball. I thought yesterday slightly favoured the ball. The batters have some ownership in some of that; it's not all around the pitch, but we've got some challenges."&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;Having lost in the vicinity of AUD$5 million (US$3.3 million) for the two-day Test in Perth after 19 wickets fell on day one, CA are staring another massive loss in the face if the MCG Test ends inside six sessions despite a record crowd of 94,199 on day one and another sell-out on day two.&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>What happened in Boxing Day Test?</h2>England’s wait for a Test win on Australian soil finally came to an end as they beat Australia by four wickets in the fourth Ashes Test. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the traditional year-ending fixture, the contest ended England’s almost 15-year winless streak on Australian soil in red-ball format. The result also means Australia lost its first match in the current World Test Championship (WTC) but still have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.

Having lost in the vicinity of AUD$5 million (US$3.3 million) for the two-day Test in Perth after 19 wickets fell on day one, CA are staring another massive loss in the face if the MCG Test ends inside six sessions despite a record crowd of 94,199 on day one and another sell-out on day two.

The Boxing Day Test match between Australia and England was a quick wrap as it ended with two days on Saturday (Dec 27). With the match ending in two days, organisers were hit with a major loss as there will be no play on Sunday between Australia and England in the Ashes. Cricket Australia CEO Todd Greenberg has now raised concerns for the future of Test cricket despite a record crowd. Test cricket in danger? "Short Tests are bad for business," said Greenberg while speaking to the media on Day 2. "The short answer for that, in my opinion, is yes," Greenberg said. "As mesmerising and fascinating and enjoyable as it was to watch as a fan, we want Test cricket clearly to go for longer. "A simple phrase I'd use is short. Tests are bad for business. I can't be much more blunt than that. So I would like to see a slightly broader balance between the bat and the ball. I thought yesterday slightly favoured the ball. The batters have some ownership in some of that; it's not all around the pitch, but we've got some challenges." ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes Having lost in the vicinity of AUD$5 million (US$3.3 million) for the two-day Test in Perth after 19 wickets fell on day one, CA are staring another massive loss in the face if the MCG Test ends inside six sessions despite a record crowd of 94,199 on day one and another sell-out on day two. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes What happened in Boxing Day Test? England’s wait for a Test win on Australian soil finally came to an end as they beat Australia by four wickets in the fourth Ashes Test. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the traditional year-ending fixture, the contest ended England’s almost 15-year winless streak on Australian soil in red-ball format. The result also means Australia lost its first match in the current World Test Championship (WTC) but still have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.

Having lost in the vicinity of AUD$5 million (US$3.3 million) for the two-day Test in Perth after 19 wickets fell on day one, CA are staring another massive loss in the face if the MCG Test ends inside six sessions despite a record crowd of 94,199 on day one and another sell-out on day two.

Ashes: Cricket Australia CEO hints at intervening on pitches, says 'short Tests are bad for business'

Indian Test vice-captain Rishabh Pant’s effort to rebuild his white-ball career took a steady step forward on Thursday as the southpaw batter played a composed knock for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Pant scored 70 off 79 balls against Gujarat, choosing patience over flair in an innings that stood out more for its control than its power.&nbsp;Walking in at a difficult moment with Delhi at 98 for 3, Pant focused on staying at the crease and guiding his team through a tricky middle phase. The pitch offered extra bounce and movement, making strokeplay uncomfortable. Earlier, Virat Kohli had scored quickly, but once he was dismissed, Delhi’s innings slowed, and the risk of a collapse loomed. With the field spread and limited batting left to come, Pant read the situation well and adapted his game.&nbsp;Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/photos/5-players-with-most-catches-in-tests-in-2025-boxing-day-test-could-decide-fielder-of-the-year-1766751643664">5 players with most catches in Tests in 2025: Boxing Day Test could decide 'Fielder of the Year'</a>&nbsp;Instead of his usual aggressive approach, Pant kept things simple. He worked the ball into gaps, ran hard between the wickets, and avoided risky shots early on. Singles and twos formed the bulk of his runs as he moved calmly through the 20s and 30s. The intent was clear: bat time first, attack later. Pant’s control at the crease was noticeable. He stayed still, trusted his defence, and waited for loose deliveries. He reached 49 with a gentle push into the outfield before finally changing gears. A wrong’un from Ravi Bishnoi was the release shot, which Pant sent over long-on for six. From there, his confidence grew. He mixed caution with intent, bringing out the sweep and using his wrists to find boundaries. Pant reached his half-century off 62 balls and added 20 more at a quicker pace, showing that his natural attacking game was never far away. Despite Pant’s effort, Delhi failed to build on the platform fully. Once he was dismissed for 70, wickets fell in quick succession at the death. Delhi ended on 254 for 9, a total that felt below par after a solid middle-overs recovery. Pant has not played an ODI for India since August 2024 and remains on the fringe of the national white-ball setup. His numbers in the format have often raised questions, but this innings suggested a shift in approach. By putting a price on his wicket and valuing time in the middle, Pant appears to be searching for a more balanced one-day game. If this method continues, it could play a key role in shaping his return to India’s white-ball plans.

Rishabh Pant plays a composed 70 for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, showing patience and control as he works towards a return to India’s white-ball setup.


Indian Test vice-captain Rishabh Pant’s effort to rebuild his white-ball career took a steady step forward on Thursday as the southpaw batter played a composed knock for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Pant scored 70 off 79 balls against Gujarat, choosing patience over flair in an innings that stood out more for its control than its power. Walking in at a difficult moment with Delhi at 98 for 3, Pant focused on staying at the crease and guiding his team through a tricky middle phase. The pitch offered extra bounce and movement, making strokeplay uncomfortable. Earlier, Virat Kohli had scored quickly, but once he was dismissed, Delhi’s innings slowed, and the risk of a collapse loomed. With the field spread and limited batting left to come, Pant read the situation well and adapted his game. Also read | 5 players with most catches in Tests in 2025: Boxing Day Test could decide 'Fielder of the Year' Instead of his usual aggressive approach, Pant kept things simple. He worked the ball into gaps, ran hard between the wickets, and avoided risky shots early on. Singles and twos formed the bulk of his runs as he moved calmly through the 20s and 30s. The intent was clear: bat time first, attack later. Pant’s control at the crease was noticeable. He stayed still, trusted his defence, and waited for loose deliveries. He reached 49 with a gentle push into the outfield before finally changing gears. A wrong’un from Ravi Bishnoi was the release shot, which Pant sent over long-on for six. From there, his confidence grew. He mixed caution with intent, bringing out the sweep and using his wrists to find boundaries. Pant reached his half-century off 62 balls and added 20 more at a quicker pace, showing that his natural attacking game was never far away. Despite Pant’s effort, Delhi failed to build on the platform fully. Once he was dismissed for 70, wickets fell in quick succession at the death. Delhi ended on 254 for 9, a total that felt below par after a solid middle-overs recovery. Pant has not played an ODI for India since August 2024 and remains on the fringe of the national white-ball setup. His numbers in the format have often raised questions, but this innings suggested a shift in approach. By putting a price on his wicket and valuing time in the middle, Pant appears to be searching for a more balanced one-day game. If this method continues, it could play a key role in shaping his return to India’s white-ball plans.

Rishabh Pant plays a composed 70 for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, showing patience and control as he works towards a return to India’s white-ball setup.

VHT 2025-26: Rishabh Pant’s calm 70 against Gujarat hints at white-ball comeback

Australia’s perfect record in the World Test Championship (WTC) came to an end on Saturday (Dec 27) after they were beaten convincingly by England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Playing on Day 2, England chased down 175 runs in the final session, meaning the Aussies were condemned to their first loss of the season. Despite the defeat, Australia remain top of the standings at the end of 2025 while England made no progress, having won the Ashes Test at the MCG by four wickets.<h2>England end Australia’s perfect record WTC cycle</h2>The four-wicket defeat for the home side was their first against England in almost 15 years in the red-ball format. As things stand, Australia have a win percentage of 85.71 from seven matches played in the cycle. The Baggy Greens had so far won six matches from seven before today and will look to win the final Test in Sydney, which starts on Sunday (Jan 4).&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;On the other hand, England remain at seventh place, having registered just their third win of the season. They have so far won three matches, drawn one and lost five in the current WTC cycle. India are sixth, having most recently lost to South Africa 2-0 on home turf and face a tough task to play in the final of the 2027 WTC.&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>What happened in Boxing Day Test?</h2>England’s wait for a Test win on Australian soil finally came to an end as they beat Australia by four wickets in the fourth Ashes Test. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the traditional year-ending fixture, the contest ended England’s almost 15-year winless streak on Australian soil in red-ball format. The result also means Australia lost its first match in the current World Test Championship (WTC) but still have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.

Playing on Day 2, England chased down 175 runs in the final session, meaning the Aussies were condemned to their first loss of the season. Despite the defeat, Australia remain top of the standings at the end of 2025 while England made no progress, having won the Ashes Test by four wickets.

Australia’s perfect record in the World Test Championship (WTC) came to an end on Saturday (Dec 27) after they were beaten convincingly by England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Playing on Day 2, England chased down 175 runs in the final session, meaning the Aussies were condemned to their first loss of the season. Despite the defeat, Australia remain top of the standings at the end of 2025 while England made no progress, having won the Ashes Test at the MCG by four wickets. England end Australia’s perfect record WTC cycle The four-wicket defeat for the home side was their first against England in almost 15 years in the red-ball format. As things stand, Australia have a win percentage of 85.71 from seven matches played in the cycle. The Baggy Greens had so far won six matches from seven before today and will look to win the final Test in Sydney, which starts on Sunday (Jan 4). ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes On the other hand, England remain at seventh place, having registered just their third win of the season. They have so far won three matches, drawn one and lost five in the current WTC cycle. India are sixth, having most recently lost to South Africa 2-0 on home turf and face a tough task to play in the final of the 2027 WTC. ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes What happened in Boxing Day Test? England’s wait for a Test win on Australian soil finally came to an end as they beat Australia by four wickets in the fourth Ashes Test. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the traditional year-ending fixture, the contest ended England’s almost 15-year winless streak on Australian soil in red-ball format. The result also means Australia lost its first match in the current World Test Championship (WTC) but still have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.

The four-wicket defeat for Australia was their first against England in almost 15 years in the red-ball format. As things stand, Australia have a win percentage of 85.71 from seven matches played in the cycle.&nbsp;

Updated WTC standings: England halt Australia's perfect record with Boxing Day Test win, India stay sixth

England’s wait for a Test win on Australian soil finally came to an end on Saturday (Dec 27) as they beat Australia by four wickets in the fourth Ashes Test. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the traditional year-ending fixture, the contest ended England’s almost 15-year winless streak on Australian soil in red-ball format. The result also means Australia lost its first match in the current World Test Championship (WTC) but still have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series.<h2>England end winless streak Down Under</h2>Having already lost the Ashes 3-0 in Adelaide, it was the Boxing Day Test that brought relief for the visitors. Having bowled out Australia for 132 in their second innings, England needed 175 runs to win the traditional fixture. England, despite a poor show with the bat, made sure they got over the line and clinched the contest to break the duck in the series.&nbsp;An opening stand of 51 runs between Zak Crawley (37) and Ben Duckett (34) saw England take early comfort before losing quick-fire wickets. Jacob Bethell then added 40 runs to the tally before Joe Root (15) and Harry Brook (unbeaten 18) saw the visitors through to win by four wickets.<h2>What happened earlier?</h2>Having won the toss, England’s decision to bowl first proved crucial as they reduced Australia to 152 runs in the first innings. However, it was not a good day at the office for England as they were also bowled out on the opening day for 110. Australia, therefore, entered Day 2 with a 46-run lead (42 runs in the first innings).&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;The second day did not go according to plan for Australia, which quickly went from 61/2 to 88/6, losing wickets in tandem. Like the first innings, another batting horror followed for the Baggy Greens, who were later bowled out for 132 runs. Only three batters got into double figures as Travis Head top-scored with 46, while Steve Smith amassed 24 and Cameron Green scored 19.&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;For England, Brydon Carse got four wickets, followed by Ben Stokes with three on a perfect bowling day for the visitors. &nbsp;Josh Tongue added two wickets to his five from the first innings, while there was one wicket for Gus Atkinson, who later pulled up his hamstring.

Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the traditional year-ending fixture, England's four-wicket victory ended their almost 15-year winless streak on Australian soil in red-ball format.

England’s wait for a Test win on Australian soil finally came to an end on Saturday (Dec 27) as they beat Australia by four wickets in the fourth Ashes Test. Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the traditional year-ending fixture, the contest ended England’s almost 15-year winless streak on Australian soil in red-ball format. The result also means Australia lost its first match in the current World Test Championship (WTC) but still have an unassailable 3-1 lead in the five-match series. England end winless streak Down Under Having already lost the Ashes 3-0 in Adelaide, it was the Boxing Day Test that brought relief for the visitors. Having bowled out Australia for 132 in their second innings, England needed 175 runs to win the traditional fixture. England, despite a poor show with the bat, made sure they got over the line and clinched the contest to break the duck in the series. An opening stand of 51 runs between Zak Crawley (37) and Ben Duckett (34) saw England take early comfort before losing quick-fire wickets. Jacob Bethell then added 40 runs to the tally before Joe Root (15) and Harry Brook (unbeaten 18) saw the visitors through to win by four wickets. What happened earlier? Having won the toss, England’s decision to bowl first proved crucial as they reduced Australia to 152 runs in the first innings. However, it was not a good day at the office for England as they were also bowled out on the opening day for 110. Australia, therefore, entered Day 2 with a 46-run lead (42 runs in the first innings). ALSO READ | From Leonard Hutton to Don Bradman, 5 batters with highest individual score in Ashes The second day did not go according to plan for Australia, which quickly went from 61/2 to 88/6, losing wickets in tandem. Like the first innings, another batting horror followed for the Baggy Greens, who were later bowled out for 132 runs. Only three batters got into double figures as Travis Head top-scored with 46, while Steve Smith amassed 24 and Cameron Green scored 19. ALSO READ | From Steve Smith to Joe Root, 5 active batters with most runs in Ashes For England, Brydon Carse got four wickets, followed by Ben Stokes with three on a perfect bowling day for the visitors. Josh Tongue added two wickets to his five from the first innings, while there was one wicket for Gus Atkinson, who later pulled up his hamstring.

Playing at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) in the traditional year-ending fixture, England's four-wicket victory ended their almost 15-year winless streak on Australian soil in red-ball format.

Ashes: England end winless streak on Australian soil, clinch Boxing Day Test on Day 2

The Boxing Day Test between Australia and England was embroiled in yet another controversy on Saturday (Dec 26) as batter Marnus Labuschagne was given out. Playing in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Aussie batter’s controversial dismissal adds more fuel to the fire, with snicko already under the radar. While controversies continued on the field, it was not a good reading for the home supporters as Australia were bowled out for 132 in their second innings and now sit on the brink of a defeat on Day 2.

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">What did you make of this catch? Out or not out?<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Ashes?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Ashes</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DRSChallenge?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DRSChallenge</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/Westpac?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@Westpac</a> <a href="https://t.co/pnWo2qt6qc">pic.twitter.com/pnWo2qt6qc</a>&mdash; cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) <a href="https://twitter.com/cricketcomau/status/2004718383606972842?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">December 27, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

<h2>DRS controversy in Ashes</h2>On the first ball of the 18th over, Labuschagne nicked a ball to the slips, where he was clutched by Joe Root. However, the catch was not clear, meaning it was referred to the third umpire and was reviewed. During the replays, the ball appeared to have touched the ground before getting caught by Root. But much to the frustration of the home fans, Labuschagne was given out by third umpire Ahsan Raza, thus prompting an angry reaction from the batter. On his way to the pavilion, the Australian batter was seen punching the air, clearly frustrated.&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;Labuschagne’s wicket was just the starting point as Australia quickly went from 61/2 to 88/6, losing wickets in tandem. Like the first innings, another batting horror followed for the Baggy Greens, who were later bowled out for 132 runs. Only three batters got into double figures as Travis Head top-scored with 46, while Steve Smith amassed 24 and Cameron Green scored 19.&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;For England, Brydon Carse got four wickets, followed by Ben Stokes with three on a perfect bowling day for the visitors. &nbsp;Josh Tongue added two wickets to his five from the first innings, while there was one wicket for Gus Atkinson, who later pulled up his hamstring.

Playing in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Marnus Labuschagne's controversial dismissal adds more fuel to the fire, with snicko already under the radar. 

The Boxing Day Test between Australia and England was embroiled in yet another controversy on Saturday (Dec 26) as batter Marnus Labuschagne was given out. Playing in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the Aussie batter’s controversial dismissal adds more fuel to the fire, with snicko already under the radar. While controversies continued on the field, it was not a good reading for the home supporters as Australia were bowled out for 132 in their second innings and now sit on the brink of a defeat on Day 2.

Playing in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Marnus Labuschagne's controversial dismissal adds more fuel to the fire, with snicko already under the radar.&nbsp;

Watch: Marnus Labuschagne leaves in anger as another DRS call adds to controversy in Ashes

Mohamed Salah scored as 10-man Egypt beat South Africa 1-0 in Agadir on Friday to become the first qualifiers for the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.&nbsp;The Liverpool star converted a penalty on 45 minutes, and South Africa were denied a spot-kick late in the second half when Yasser Ibrahim appeared to handle the ball inside the box.&nbsp;Salah came to Morocco after not starting in five Liverpool matches -- his omission leading to an outburst against manager Arne Slot.&nbsp;Egypt were reduced to 10 men in first-half added time when right-back Mohamed Hany was shown a second yellow card for a stamp, followed by a red.&nbsp;After two rounds in Group B, record seven-time champions Egypt have six points and are guaranteed a top-two finish and a place in the round of 16.&nbsp;South Africa have three points, and Angola and Zimbabwe one each after they drew 1-1 in Marrakesh earlier.&nbsp;"I'm very happy for the result, for sure. It was a tough game, they dominated most of the time. It's a team that can keep the ball for a long time so I think we had a good gameplan, it worked," said Salah.&nbsp;"We walked away with the three points, it's the most important thing. The atmosphere is incredible. Hopefully we can carry on like this."&nbsp;South Africa coach Hugo Broos said: "The penalty awarded to Egypt was ridiculous, really ridiculous. Hossam Hassan (Egypt coach) said to me after game that he was surprised it was a penalty.&nbsp;"Regarding us not being awarded a penalty near the end, the arm of the Egyptian was extended and the ball touched it. It was a penalty."&nbsp;The first chance fell to Salah after 11 minutes, but he could not move forward quickly enough to connect with a low cross from Hany.&nbsp;That the majority of the crowd were supporting the Pharaohs became obvious soon after when the Burundi referee ignored Zizo appeals for a free-kick, and loud whistling enveloped the stadium.&nbsp;When Salah delivered a free-kick into the heart of the South African area, three Egyptians darted forward, but none could connect with the ball.<h2>Salah closely policed</h2>Midway through the opening half a pattern had developed -- Egypt were pushing forward regularly while South Africa defended with calmness and solid tackling.&nbsp;When Teboho Mokoena fouled Omar Marmoush just outside the D, he was yellow carded. However, the Manchester City striker fired the resultant free-kick wide.&nbsp;As the first half progressed the sun broke out in the southern coastal city -- a welcome sight for players and spectators with many earlier group matches staged in torrential rain.&nbsp;A rare South Africa attack ended disappointingly as Lyle Foster struck a weak shot that was comfortably saved by 37-year-old Mohamed El Shenawy.&nbsp;Awarded a free-kick close to the touchline, South Africa performed an intricate, multi-pass move that ended tamely as El Shenawy clutched a cross.&nbsp;Salah was being closely policed by Aubrey Modiba and as half-time drew near the Liverpool star retreated into the Egyptian half in order to retain possession.&nbsp;Then, as the Egypt captain chased a loose ball with Khuliso Mudau, the South African right-back raised his left arm, striking an eye of Salah.&nbsp;Amid Egyptian protests, the Burundian referee viewed the incident on a VAR monitor and pointed to the penalty spot.&nbsp;A lengthy delay before the kick was taken could not have eased the nerves of Salah, but he comfortably converted the penalty as Ronwen Williams dived in the wrong direction.&nbsp;More drama erupted in added time when Hany stamped on Mokoena, leading to a second yellow card for the defender.&nbsp;South Africa, with a numerical advantage, attacked more as the second half progressed, but Egypt came close to a second goal with Williams foiling substitute Emam Ashour after a quick free-kick.&nbsp;El Shenawy displayed his agility with 15 minutes remaining, using his right hand to tip to safety a low shot from Foster. It was one of several saves that kept Egypt ahead.&nbsp;Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Liverpool star converted a penalty on 45 minutes, and South Africa were denied a spot-kick late in the second half when Yasser Ibrahim appeared to handle the ball inside the box.

Mohamed Salah scored as 10-man Egypt beat South Africa 1-0 in Agadir on Friday to become the first qualifiers for the knockout stage of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. The Liverpool star converted a penalty on 45 minutes, and South Africa were denied a spot-kick late in the second half when Yasser Ibrahim appeared to handle the ball inside the box. Salah came to Morocco after not starting in five Liverpool matches -- his omission leading to an outburst against manager Arne Slot. Egypt were reduced to 10 men in first-half added time when right-back Mohamed Hany was shown a second yellow card for a stamp, followed by a red. After two rounds in Group B, record seven-time champions Egypt have six points and are guaranteed a top-two finish and a place in the round of 16. South Africa have three points, and Angola and Zimbabwe one each after they drew 1-1 in Marrakesh earlier. "I'm very happy for the result, for sure. It was a tough game, they dominated most of the time. It's a team that can keep the ball for a long time so I think we had a good gameplan, it worked," said Salah. "We walked away with the three points, it's the most important thing. The atmosphere is incredible. Hopefully we can carry on like this." South Africa coach Hugo Broos said: "The penalty awarded to Egypt was ridiculous, really ridiculous. Hossam Hassan (Egypt coach) said to me after game that he was surprised it was a penalty. "Regarding us not being awarded a penalty near the end, the arm of the Egyptian was extended and the ball touched it. It was a penalty." The first chance fell to Salah after 11 minutes, but he could not move forward quickly enough to connect with a low cross from Hany. That the majority of the crowd were supporting the Pharaohs became obvious soon after when the Burundi referee ignored Zizo appeals for a free-kick, and loud whistling enveloped the stadium. When Salah delivered a free-kick into the heart of the South African area, three Egyptians darted forward, but none could connect with the ball. Salah closely policed Midway through the opening half a pattern had developed -- Egypt were pushing forward regularly while South Africa defended with calmness and solid tackling. When Teboho Mokoena fouled Omar Marmoush just outside the D, he was yellow carded. However, the Manchester City striker fired the resultant free-kick wide. As the first half progressed the sun broke out in the southern coastal city -- a welcome sight for players and spectators with many earlier group matches staged in torrential rain. A rare South Africa attack ended disappointingly as Lyle Foster struck a weak shot that was comfortably saved by 37-year-old Mohamed El Shenawy. Awarded a free-kick close to the touchline, South Africa performed an intricate, multi-pass move that ended tamely as El Shenawy clutched a cross. Salah was being closely policed by Aubrey Modiba and as half-time drew near the Liverpool star retreated into the Egyptian half in order to retain possession. Then, as the Egypt captain chased a loose ball with Khuliso Mudau, the South African right-back raised his left arm, striking an eye of Salah. Amid Egyptian protests, the Burundian referee viewed the incident on a VAR monitor and pointed to the penalty spot. A lengthy delay before the kick was taken could not have eased the nerves of Salah, but he comfortably converted the penalty as Ronwen Williams dived in the wrong direction. More drama erupted in added time when Hany stamped on Mokoena, leading to a second yellow card for the defender. South Africa, with a numerical advantage, attacked more as the second half progressed, but Egypt came close to a second goal with Williams foiling substitute Emam Ashour after a quick free-kick. El Shenawy displayed his agility with 15 minutes remaining, using his right hand to tip to safety a low shot from Foster. It was one of several saves that kept Egypt ahead. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

The Liverpool star converted a penalty on 45 minutes, and South Africa were denied a spot-kick late in the second half when Yasser Ibrahim appeared to handle the ball inside the box.

AFCON: Mohamed Salah helps 10-man Egypt beat South Africa to book last-16 place

Deepti Sharma etched her name in the record books during the third T20I in Trivandrum against Sri Lanka on Friday (Dec 26). The Indian all-rounder became the first woman in the world to pick 150 wickets in both T20 Internationals and One-Day Internationals, marking a landmark achievement in her career. The historic moment came when Deepti dismissed Kavisha Dilhari to bring up her 150th T20I wicket.&nbsp;&nbsp;With that, she also moved to 151 wickets in the format, drawing level with Australia’s Megan Schutt as the joint-highest wicket-taker in women’s T20I history. The 28-year-old all-rounder further enhanced her illustrious career by crossing 1,000 runs and claiming 150 wickets in T20 Internationals.&nbsp;Also read <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/from-coco-gauff-to-jessica-pegula-full-list-of-winners-at-the-wta-2025-season-awards-1766769229988">| From Coco Gauff to Jessica Pegula: Full list of winners at the WTA 2025 season awards</a>&nbsp;This feat adds to her already impressive ODI record, where she had crossed the 150-wicket mark earlier. Becoming the first woman to reach the milestone in both formats highlights her long-term importance in India’s bowling attack. Deepti has consistently delivered in crucial moments, whether bowling in power plays or controlling the middle overs.&nbsp;Later in the match, she dismissed Malsha Shehani in her final over, taking her overall international tally to 333 wickets. This made her the third-highest wicket-taker in women’s cricket, behind only Jhulan Goswami and Katherine Sciver-Brunt.&nbsp;Deepti’s rise has been backed by big performances on major stages for India. Earlier this year, she played a key role in India’s maiden ICC Women’s World Cup triumph on home soil and was named ‘Player of the Tournament’. Her value was also reflected at the Women’s Premier League auction, where UP Warriorz secured her for INR 3.2 crore, the second-highest bid in the league’s history.<h2>India secures T20I series</h2>India went on to beat Sri Lanka comfortably, extending their lead in the five-match T20I series. With Deepti Sharma continuing to break records and deliver under pressure, she remains one of India’s most dependable match-winners in white-ball cricket.&nbsp;

Deepti Sharma etched her name in cricket history, becoming the first-ever player to score 1,000 runs and take 150 wickets in T20Is, adding another major milestone to her illustrious career.

Deepti Sharma etched her name in the record books during the third T20I in Trivandrum against Sri Lanka on Friday (Dec 26). The Indian all-rounder became the first woman in the world to pick 150 wickets in both T20 Internationals and One-Day Internationals, marking a landmark achievement in her career. The historic moment came when Deepti dismissed Kavisha Dilhari to bring up her 150th T20I wicket. With that, she also moved to 151 wickets in the format, drawing level with Australia’s Megan Schutt as the joint-highest wicket-taker in women’s T20I history. The 28-year-old all-rounder further enhanced her illustrious career by crossing 1,000 runs and claiming 150 wickets in T20 Internationals. Also read | From Coco Gauff to Jessica Pegula: Full list of winners at the WTA 2025 season awards This feat adds to her already impressive ODI record, where she had crossed the 150-wicket mark earlier. Becoming the first woman to reach the milestone in both formats highlights her long-term importance in India’s bowling attack. Deepti has consistently delivered in crucial moments, whether bowling in power plays or controlling the middle overs. Later in the match, she dismissed Malsha Shehani in her final over, taking her overall international tally to 333 wickets. This made her the third-highest wicket-taker in women’s cricket, behind only Jhulan Goswami and Katherine Sciver-Brunt. Deepti’s rise has been backed by big performances on major stages for India. Earlier this year, she played a key role in India’s maiden ICC Women’s World Cup triumph on home soil and was named ‘Player of the Tournament’. Her value was also reflected at the Women’s Premier League auction, where UP Warriorz secured her for INR 3.2 crore, the second-highest bid in the league’s history. India secures T20I series India went on to beat Sri Lanka comfortably, extending their lead in the five-match T20I series. With Deepti Sharma continuing to break records and deliver under pressure, she remains one of India’s most dependable match-winners in white-ball cricket.

Deepti Sharma etched her name in cricket history, becoming the first-ever player to score 1,000 runs and take 150 wickets in T20Is, adding another major milestone to her illustrious career.

IND-W vs SL-W, 3rd T20I: Deepti Sharma scripts history, achieves TWO major records in Trivandrum

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Deepti Sharma scripts history, achieves TWO major records in Trivandrum