Sunday, November 24
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled the women's cricket Future Tours Programme (FTP) for 2025-29, featuring an expanded Women's Championship with 11 teams, including newcomer Zimbabwe. The schedule includes more Test matches and bilateral series, with India hosting Australia and England, while tri-series will serve as preparation for ICC events like the Women's T20 World Cup.
India's batting crumbled against spin in their recent 3-0 Test series loss to New Zealand. The hosts, aiming to exploit spin-friendly conditions, were undone by their own vulnerability, with even experienced batters like Virat Kohli struggling. The defeat jeopardizes India's World Test Championship Final hopes, requiring them to win four matches in the upcoming series against Australia.
Former Indian cricketers have debated the importance of top players participating in domestic tournaments like the Ranji Trophy to maintain their form. While workload management is crucial in modern cricket, some argue that playing in domestic competitions can be beneficial, especially when players are out of form.
Mohammed Shami's return to competitive cricket has been delayed as he was not included in Bengal's squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy matches. Despite bowling at full tilt in recent nets, concerns remain about his fitness following surgery. Shami expressed confidence in his recovery, but both he and the team management are opting for caution to ensure a complete return.
Rajasthan Royals head coach Rahul Dravid revealed the team's retention strategy for IPL 2025, with captain Sanju Samson playing a key role in the decision-making process. The franchise retained six players, including Samson, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Dhruv Jurel, aiming to build a stable core for the upcoming season and chase their championship aspirations.
Ravindra Jadeja roared back to 'wicket-taking' form with a brilliant ten-wicket haul in the Mumbai Test against New Zealand. This timely return to form, coupled with his consistent batting contributions in 2024, makes him a key player for India as they prepare to face Australia in the crucial Border-Gavaskar Trophy.
During the first ODI against Australia, Pakistan's Irfan Khan showcased both impressive fielding skills and a comical rule-abiding moment. While his spectacular leaping catch was deemed a six due to his foot touching the boundary cushion, his subsequent running catch highlighted the team's improving fielding prowess, albeit with a touch of their signature entertainment value.
Former Australian cricketers Adam Gilchrist and Kerry O'Keeffe believe India's performance in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy will be heavily influenced by their recent series loss to New Zealand. While India boasts a strong squad, the aging veterans and potential vulnerability of key players like Kohli and Rohit will be tested by a relentless Australian team.
David Warner, who retired from international cricket this year, said he would be nervous if he was a batter in the Indian team line-up when facing Australia in the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy, following the subpar performances in the recent 3-0 series loss to New Zealand.
India will face South Africa in a four-match T20 series starting November 8, aiming to extend their winning streak against the Proteas. The rivalry between the two nations has produced thrilling encounters, including India's recent World Cup victory, a match significantly impacted by Suryakumar Yadav's exceptional catch. The rivalry has showcased the adaptability of both teams.
