Tuesday, May 05
Shubman Gill reflected on a momentous 2025, a year of sharp contrasts. Despite being dropped from the T20I setup, he achieved extraordinary red-ball success in England, piling up 754 runs. Gill also captained India to a memorable 2-2 draw in the Test series and played a key role in their Champions Trophy triumph.
Usman Khawaja announced his retirement from international cricket, confirming the upcoming fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground will be his last. The veteran left-hander, Australia's first Muslim Test cricketer, reflected on a journey of resilience and representation, overcoming early career setbacks to become a key player and advocate.
Usman Khawaja announced his retirement from international cricket, confirming the upcoming fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground will be his last. The veteran left-hander, Australia's first Muslim Test cricketer, reflected on a journey of resilience and representation, overcoming early career setbacks to become a key player and advocate.
England captain Ben Stokes has backed head coach Brendon McCullum despite losing the Ashes 2025–26. Stokes said he fully trusts their partnership but admitted both must address team flaws. Under their leadership, England enjoyed early success but have since struggled for consistency. Trailing Australia 3-1, England will look to end the series on a positive note in the final Test at Sydney.
South Africa named their T20 World Cup squad with new faces Kwena Maphaka and Jason Smith, while dropping Ryan Rickelton and Tristan Stubbs. Smith earned selection due to strong recent form. Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje return to the side. Placed in Group D, South Africa begin their campaign against Canada on February 9 in Ahmedabad.
Former England spinner Monty Panesar has criticised the BCCI for failing to organise farewell Test matches for Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Ravichandran Ashwin. He said the trio deserved greater respect for their contributions and compared India’s approach with England, where legends like Stuart Broad and James Anderson received memorable farewells.
Former Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie dismissed suggestions of replacing Gautam Gambhir as India coach with a blunt “No thanks.” Under pressure after poor results, Gambhir’s role sparked fan debate online. Gillespie, who quit Pakistan’s coaching job after seven months in 2024, is believed to be cautious about high-pressure roles, despite remaining a respected red-ball coach.
Irfan Pathan drew parallels between his own early international career under Rahul Dravid and Shubman Gill's current trajectory. Pathan believes Gill's leadership roles have fostered significant growth, mirroring the lessons he received about handling increased pressure. Despite a T20 setback, Pathan sees Gill's talent and willingness to learn as indicators of future success.
On January 2, 147 years ago, Fred Spofforth etched his name in cricket history by claiming the first-ever Test hat-trick at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. This remarkable feat, achieved in just his second Test, propelled Australia to a dominant 10-wicket victory over England. Spofforth's bowling prowess was instrumental throughout the match.
Australia U-19 all-rounder John James’ rise is rooted in belie. Shaped by family sacrifice, influential coaches and an old-school batting philosophy, James blends adaptability with mental clarity. With Bengal and Kerala roots his love for football is a no secret, a sport, he played till he turned 16. He wants to succeed as a leader and seeks inspiration from none other than Pat Cummins. The teenager is gearing up for U-19 World Cup, starting January 15.
