Tuesday, May 12
South Africa secured a significant Test victory against India in Kolkata. Fast bowler Kagiso Rabada highlighted the team's resilience and depth. Despite injuries, the Proteas defended a low target. This win marks their first on Indian soil in 15 years. Rabada expressed pride in the collective effort and individual contributions that led to this memorable triumph.
Pakistan's ODI team clinched a dominant 3-0 series win against Sri Lanka, a victory amplified by Pakistan Shaheens' triumph over India A in the Asia Cup Rising Stars. Captain Shaheen Afridi lauded both achievements, highlighting the team's confidence and the impressive comeback of Mohammad Wasim Jr. after injury. The Shaheens' chase was spearheaded by Maaz Sadaqat's explosive 79.
Following India's Test defeat to South Africa, Sourav Ganguly reiterated his call for Mohammed Shami's Test comeback, emphasising the need to trust proven pacers like Bumrah, Siraj, and Shami. Ganguly also urged coach Gautam Gambhir to prepare better wickets, stating Team India needs solid batting foundations to win Test matches.
Rajasthan Royals have appointed Kumar Sangakkara as their head coach for IPL 2026, alongside his Director of Cricket role. This move follows a disappointing 2025 season under Rahul Dravid. Sangakkara, who previously led the team to the 2022 final, aims to bring stability and renewed competitiveness with a strengthened coaching staff.
Ravichandran Ashwin criticises India's batting collapse against South Africa, stating the current generation struggles against spin. He believes past Indian batters would have handled the turning track better, attributing the decline to insufficient practice. Ashwin argues Western teams now outperform India against spin due to dedicated preparation, a stark contrast to India's improved overseas pace bowling.
India's fourth consecutive home Test defeat to a SENA country, often on turning wickets, raises concerns about technique or pitch suitability. Despite a seemingly ideal pitch, India's batters struggled with pressure, according to coach Gautam Gambhir, rather than a lack of skill. Strategic decisions, like playing four spinners and Washington Sundar at No. 3, are also under scrutiny.
KKR and SRH dominated retention day, entering the December 16 mini-auction with lean squads of 12 and 15 after bold calls. Meanwhile, CSK and RR at the centre of headline-grabbing moves involving Ravindra Jadeja, Sanju Samson and Sam Curran face major rebuilding jobs ahead of the Abu Dhabi auction.
