Tuesday, November 26
Former Australia captain Tim Paine believes Australia are clear favourites for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, citing India's recent struggles with form and injuries. Paine highlights the absence of Mohammed Shami and concerns over Jasprit Bumrah's workload. Australia's home advantage and stability are mentioned as key factors for their potential success against India in the upcoming series.
Gujarat Titans plan to retain their captain Shubman Gill, spinner Rashid Khan, and batter Sai Sudharsan ahead of the IPL mega auction. Uncapped hitters Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan are also expected to stay. The retention, aimed at building a strong core, follows Titans' successful debut season and subsequent runner-up finish.
South Africa dominated the opening day of the second Test against Bangladesh, ending at 307/2. Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs both scored their maiden Test centuries, with de Zorzi unbeaten on 141 and Stubbs making 106. Despite an early wicket, a record 201-run partnership for the second wicket solidified their position, leaving Bangladesh struggling to find breakthroughs.
Pakistan cricket is experiencing turbulence with coaching changes and leadership shifts before important tours. Former captain Babar Azam arrived in Australia and was warmly welcomed by fans. He will play in the white-ball series against Australia. Meanwhile, Gary Kirsten resigned as white-ball coach, leaving Jason Gillespie to guide the team in Australia.
Barcelona and Spain's Aitana Bonmati clinched her second consecutive women's Ballon d'Or after leading her team to unprecedented success, including multiple titles and the Nations League victory. The 26-year-old, recognized for her stellar performances, expressed gratitude to her teammates and staff, highlighting her contributions to Barcelona's and Spain's triumphant seasons.
Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have finally initiated talks with captain Shreyas Iyer regarding his retention plans just days before the IPL deadline. Despite being approached by multiple franchises for a leadership role, there has been no clear decision on Iyer’s future with KKR yet. The franchise, considering several retentions, is also looking at potential fresh additions to the team setup.
Erik ten Hag was dismissed as Manchester United manager after their fourth defeat in nine Premier League games, leaving them 14th. The Dutchman won two trophies at the club and was given a contract extension in the summer. Ruud van Nistelrooy takes over as interim manager.
Former India cricketer Manoj Tiwary has hailed young batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal as 'a legend in the making.' Jaiswal impressed with a standout 77-run performance in the second Test against New Zealand, showcasing technique and a positive mindset. Tiwary attributes Jaiswal's success to his hunger and desire to improve consistently, calling him a gift to cricket.
Basit Ali criticized Gary Kirsten's sudden exit as Pakistan's limited-overs coach, expressing concern over Pakistan cricket's decline. He compared the situation to other countries' approaches and mocked Kirsten’s selection preferences. Kirsten's resignation followed internal tensions with the PCB. Jason Gillespie will replace Kirsten for the upcoming white-ball tour of Australia.
Gary Kirsten resigned as Pakistan's limited-overs coach due to dissatisfaction with the restructuring of coaching roles by the PCB, which has removed head coaches from the selection committee. Kirsten's resignation follows Pakistan's recent loss to England in the first Test and early exit from the T20 World Cup.
