Sunday, July 05
Major League Cricket (MLC) 2025 launched with a blend of nostalgia and explosive action at the Oakland Coliseum. West Indian legends Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh bowled the ceremonial first balls, with Adam Gilchrist behind the stumps.
Former opener Matthew Hayden attributed the South Africa and Australia batting woes in the WTC final to technical flaws, contrasting with T20 approaches. He emphasized the need to 'smell the leather' by moving towards the ball in Test cricket.
Gautam Gambhir, India's head coach, and Shubman Gill, the new Test captain, addressed the team, heralding a fresh era after the retirement of key players. Gambhir lauded Karun Nair's comeback after eight years and welcomed new players like Sai Sudharsan and Arshdeep Singh. The series against England marks India's start in the ICC World Test Championship cycle for 2025-27.
Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden criticized South Africa's lack of intent on day one of the WTC final against Australia, highlighting Bavuma's slow start. Sanjay Bangar emphasized Australia's strong position due to early wickets. Despite Smith and Webster's fifties, Rabada's five-wicket haul restricted Australia to 212.
Australia captain Pat Cummins starred with the ball and Alex Carey made valuable runs following a dramatic collapse as the holders retained the advantage in the World Test Championship final against South Africa on Thursday. The Proteas had resumed on Thursday at 43-4, battling to put enough runs on the board.
Ricky Ponting lauded Beau Webster's crucial 72 in the World Test Championship final against South Africa, highlighting his comfort and aggressive approach amidst challenging conditions. Webster's knock, along with Steve Smith's 66, helped Australia reach a competitive 212.
England's head coach Brendon McCullum expressed excitement about the upcoming five-Test series against India, highlighting the team's varied bowling attack. Despite missing key bowlers, he praised the emerging talent, including spinner Shoaib Bashir. India, embarking on a new era without veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will begin their WTC cycle. Shubman Gill will be leading the side.
Sanjana Ganesan revealed that Jasprit Bumrah's cricket has improved since their son Angad's birth, attributing it to a peaceful home life. She also highlighted the unique personalities of cricketers' wives and their complementary roles. Sanjana shared lighthearted moments with Bumrah, noting his attempts to distract her during interviews and their comfortable off-field bond as 'gossip buddies'.
