The Gabba witnessed a masterclass in aggressive T20 batting on January 10, 2026, as the Brisbane Heat secured a comprehensive 7-wicket victory over the Sydney Thunder in the 29th match of BBL|15. In a high-stakes encounter under the lights, a vintage performance from Usman Khawaja ensured the Heat chased down a daunting total with remarkable ease, finishing the game with 22 balls to spare.

David Warner and Sam Billings set a formidable target against Brisbane Heat

Winning the toss and electing to bat, the Sydney Thunder overcame a cautious start to post a competitive 180/6. The innings was anchored by veteran David Warner, who showed glimpses of his classic self with a gritty 82 off 56 balls. Warner’s knock, featuring seven boundaries and three towering sixes, provided the stability the Thunder needed after losing Matthew Gilkes (10) and Cameron Bancroft (4) early in the Powerplay.

The momentum shifted during the “Power Surge” in the 13th and 14th overs, where the Thunder added 29 runs without losing a wicket. Sam Billings contributed a brisk 34, partnering with Warner for an 84-run stand that looked set to propel the visitors toward a 200-plus total. However, the Brisbane Heat’s bowling unit, led by an inspired Matt Renshaw (2/29), tightened the screws in the death overs. Renshaw’s ability to pick up key wickets, including the dangerous Billings, halted the Thunder’s charge, leaving them with 180—a formidable but defendable score on the true Gabba surface.

Also READ: Liam Scott’s knock goes in vain as Nathan Ellis’ bowling brilliance guides Hobart Hurricanes to big win over Adelaide Strikers in BBL|15

Usman Khawaja’s blistering innings powers Brisbane Heat to dominant win in BBL|15

Any hopes the Thunder had of defending their total were quickly extinguished by an extraordinary opening onslaught. Jack Wildermuth acted as the early aggressor, smashing 39 off just 15 balls in a whirlwind cameo that saw the Heat race to 50 runs in just 3.2 overs. When Wildermuth fell in the fourth over, the foundation was already laid for the Khawaja show.

The Heat captain played with surgical precision and effortless timing. Khawaja’s 78 off 48 balls was a clinic in finding gaps and punishing short-pitched bowling. He reached his half-century in just 30 deliveries, effectively killing the contest before the drinks break. While Nathan McSweeney (12) fell cheaply, Renshaw capped off a brilliant all-round day by remaining unbeaten on 42 off 26 balls.

The match flow remained heavily in the Heat’s favour throughout the chase, reaching the 150-run mark in just the 14th over. Despite Wes Agar finally dismissing Khawaja in the 16th over, the damage was done. The Heat crossed the line at 183/3 in only 16.2 overs, marking one of the most clinical chases in recent BBL history. Khawaja’s “Player of the Match” performance not only secured the points for Brisbane but also sent a clear message to the rest of the league regarding the Heat’s championship credentials in BBL|15.

A comprehensive win for Brisbane Heat ⚡#BBL15 #BrisbaneHeat pic.twitter.com/4bHDIdW6tJ

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 10, 2026

Also READ: BBL|15: Ben Dwarshuis, Joel Davies shine as Sydney Sixers pip Melbourne Stars in a low-scoring thriller

All eyes turn to the iconic Wanderers Stadium for a tense rematch as the Joburg Super Kings welcome reigning champions MI Cape Town. JSK, placed securely in the top half of the standings, will be eager to settle scores after going down to MICT in a rain-affected nail-biter earlier this week. For MI Cape Town, the clash carries added urgency, with victory essential to revive their playoff ambitions following a slow beginning to their campaign.

JSK enter this match in second place on the points table, though they have felt hard done by the weather, with two of their last three fixtures ending in no results. Despite these interruptions, Faf du Plessis and James Vince have remained a formidable opening pair, consistently providing explosive starts. On the bowling front, Nandre Burger and Richard Gleeson have been the primary threats, though they will need more discipline against a deep MICT batting lineup.

MI Cape Town, currently languishing at the bottom of the table, finally found a spark in their recent 4-wicket win over JSK at Newlands. That victory was fuelled by a clinical bowling performance from Corbin Bosch and Rashid Khan, followed by an aggressive cameo from Nicholas Pooran. With Ryan Rickelton leading the tournament’s run-scoring charts with 204 runs, the champions have the firepower to climb the rankings if their star-studded bowling attack, featuring Kagiso Rabada and Trent Boult, can find its rhythm early in the innings.

While JSK has been the more consistent side this season, MICT’s recent psychological edge from their win on January 6 makes this an unpredictable clash between two of the most popular franchises in the SA20.

JSK vs MICT, SA20 2025-26: Match details

• Date and Time: January 10 (Saturday); 9:00 pm IST / 03:30 pm GMT / 5:30 pm Local
• Venue: The Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg

JSK vs MICT, Head-to-Head Record in SA20:

Matches played: 7 | MI Cape Town won: 4 | Joburg Super Kings won: 3 | No result/Tied: 0

Wanderers Stadium Pitch Report

The pitch at the Wanderers Stadium is a traditional South African “Bullring” surface, famously known as a batter’s paradise due to its high altitude and lightning-fast outfield. Stroke-makers will enjoy the consistent bounce and carry, which allows the ball to come onto the bat nicely right from the powerplay. However, recent overcast conditions and moisture from seasonal rain could offer the seamers some lateral movement and extra zip in the opening overs. While history favours high-scoring encounters, captains generally prefer to bowl first here to exploit any early assistance for the pacers before the surface flattens out.

Also WATCH: 6,6,6,6,6,6: Dewald Brevis and Sherfane Rutherford unleash a flurry of sixes on MI Cape Town bowlers in SA20 2025-26

Squads

Joburg Super Kings: Faf du Plessis (c), Rilee Rossouw, Wiaan Mulder, Donovan Ferreira (wk), Matthew De Villiers, Dian Forrester, Shubham Ranjane, Duan Jansen, Janco Smit, Akeal Hosein, Richard Gleeson, James Vince, Imran Tahir, Reece Topley, Prenelan Subrayen, Daniel Worrall, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Nandre Burger, Steve Stolk, Neil Timmers, Jarren Bacher

MI Cape Town: Ryan Rickelton (wk), Rassie van der Dussen, Nicholas Pooran, Jason Smith, Jacques Snyman, Tom Moores, George Linde, Rashid Khan (c), Kagiso Rabada, Trent Boult, Dane Piedt, Karim Janat, Thomas Kaber, Tiaan van Vuuren, Tristan Luus, Daniel Lategan, Reeza Hendricks, Dwaine Pretorius, Corbin Bosch

JSK vs MICT, SA20 2025-26: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• MI Cape Town wins the toss and bowls first
• Joburg Super Kings’ powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• Joburg Super Kings’ total score: 190-200

Case 2:

• Joburg Super Kings wins the toss and bowls first
• MI Cape Town’s powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
• MI Cape Town’s total score: 180-190

Match result: Team batting first to win the contest

Also READ: Faf du Plessis recalls MS Dhoni’s iconic act after Donovan Ferreira’s stunning run-out for Joburg Super Kings in SA20 2025-26

Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 continues its high-octane start as the defending champions, Mumbai Indians (MI), face off against their perennial rivals, the Delhi Capitals (DC). This fixture is a replay of last season’s final, where Mumbai secured their second title in a nail-biting finish.

Mumbai Indians come into this game following a heart-breaking last-ball defeat to RCB in the season opener. Meanwhile, for the Delhi Capitals, this match marks the beginning of a new era. With the legendary Meg Lanning having moved to the UP Warriorz, the flamboyant Jemimah Rodrigues takes over the captaincy, looking to finally lead DC to their maiden trophy after three consecutive final appearances.

The two-time champions (2023, 2025) enter this match with a settled core. Led by Harmanpreet Kaur, MI boasts a formidable overseas trio of Nat Sciver-Brunt, Hayley Matthews, and Amelia Kerr. Their primary strength lies in their elite all-rounders who can win games with both bat and ball. The return of Shabnim Ismail provides them with the extra pace to rattle Delhi’s top order.

Under the new leadership of Rodrigues, Delhi is looking to shed its “runners-up” tag. DC has reinforced their squad with explosive talent like Laura Wolvaardt and the spin wizardry of Alana King. The opening pair of Shafali Verma and Wolvaardt is arguably the most dangerous in the tournament.

MI-W vs DC-W, WPL 2026: Match details

• Date and Time: January 10; 07:30 pm IST/ 2:00 pm GMT
• Venue: DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai

MI-W vs DC -W, Head-to-Head Record in WPL

Matches played: 8 | Mumbai Indians won: 4 | Delhi Capitals won: 3 | No result: 0

DY Patil Sports Academy Pitch Report

The pitch at the Dr DY Patil Sports Academy is a certified “batting paradise,” characterized by its hard, flat surface and true bounce. In this evening fixture, the ball is expected to come onto the bat beautifully, allowing stroke-makers to play through the line with confidence. While the red soil may offer some initial carry and swing for the pacers, the small boundaries and lightning-fast outfield heavily favour the batters. Historically, the dew factor plays a significant role in the second innings, making the ball difficult to grip for spinners and incentivizing captains to bowl first and chase.

Also READ: Not just RCB! Richa Ghosh picks another franchise capable of winning WPL 2026

Squads

Mumbai Indians: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Nat Sciver-Brunt, Hayley Matthews, Amanjot Kaur, G. Kamalini, Amelia Kerr, Shabnim Ismail, Sanskriti Gupta, Sajana Sajeevan, Rahila Firdous, Nicola Carey, Poonam Khemnar, Triveni Vasishta, Nalla Reddy, Saika Ishaque, Milly Illingworth

Delhi Capitals: Jemimah Rodrigues (c), Shafali Verma, Marzianne Kapp, Niki Prasad, Laura Wolvaardt, Chinelle Henry, Shree Charani, Sneh Rana, Lizelle Lee, Deeya Yadav, Taniyaa Bhatia, Mamatha Madiwala, Nandni Sharma, Lucy Hamilton, Minnu Mani, Alana King

MI-W vs DC-W, WPL 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Mumbai Indians Women wins the toss and bowl first
• Delhi Capitals Women’s powerplay score: 40-50
• Delhi Capitals Women’s total score: 140-150

Case 2:

• Delhi Capitals Women wins the toss and bowl first
• Mumbai Indians Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
• Mumbai Indians Women’s total score: 150-160

Match result: Team bowling first to win the match.

Also READ: Jemimah Rodrigues reveals how Richa Ghosh dismantled Alyssa Healy’s sledge with an unforgettable reply

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

On January 9, 2026, Cricket Ireland officially announced their 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka starting February 7. Veteran opener Paul Stirling has been retained as captain to lead the ‘Men in Green’ in their ninth appearance at the marquee event, with wicketkeeper-batter Lorcan Tucker named as his deputy.

The selection shows a clear commitment to stability, as 12 of the 15 players from the 2024 campaign have kept their places. National Selector Andrew White expressed strong optimism, stating that the team has been waiting to rectify their 2024 performance and will enter a highly competitive Group B, which includes hosts Sri Lanka and powerhouse Australia, with ‘no fear.’

Experience meets youth: The fresh faces in Ireland’s 15-man squad

While the core of the team remains settled, the 2026 squad features three exciting new additions who have earned their maiden World Cup call-ups through consistent domestic form. Tim Tector, the 22-year-old brother of star batter Harry Tector, joins the ranks as a versatile top-order option and off-spinner. He is joined by 23-year-olds Ben Calitz, a left-handed middle-order specialist, and Matthew Humphreys, a crafty left-arm spinner.

Selector Andrew White noted that these players ‘add a further dynamic nature to the playing group’ as the team looks to balance veteran savvy with youthful energy. Notably, a fit-again Ross Adair returns to the squad after recovering from a knee injury, though there was no place for former captain Andrew Balbirnie in the final list.

Also READ: ‘Three stooges’: Geoffrey Boycott identifies the key figures behind England’s disastrous 4-1 Ashes defeat

Group B roadmap: Ireland’s high-stakes schedule in Sri Lanka

Ireland have been placed in Group B, arguably one of the most challenging pools of the tournament, alongside Australia, Sri Lanka, Oman and Zimbabwe. All of Ireland’s group-stage matches will take place in Sri Lanka, beginning with a high-voltage opener against the hosts on February 8 in Colombo.

Following the opener, the Irish will face a formidable Australian side on February 11, followed by crucial encounters against Oman and Zimbabwe that will likely determine their Super 8 fate. To prepare for the subcontinental conditions, the squad is scheduled to travel to Dubai on January 15 for a series of warm-up T20Is against Italy and the UAE, ensuring they are ‘match-ready’ for the unique spin-friendly tracks of the Premadasa and Kandy stadiums.

Ireland full 15-member squad for T20 World Cup 2026

Also READ: Adult film star Kendra Lust shares photo with Virat Kohli; fans react to the viral buzz

A viral Instagram post by adult film star Kendra Lust featuring Indian cricket icon Virat Kohli set social media abuzz this week, sparking shock, humour, and intense debate among fans before an unexpected twist revealed the truth. The image, shared on Thursday, showed the two appearing together in what seemed like a candid moment, instantly grabbing attention across platforms.

Kendra Lust’s Instagram post praising Virat Kohli hits the internet

In the post, Lust praised Kohli’s personality, calling him “an inspiration and truly down-to-earth,” and added hashtags linking India and the United Kingdom along with “People’s Champ.” The warm caption, combined with the seemingly casual photograph, led many users to assume the meeting was real. Within hours, the post amassed more than 350,000 likes and thousands of comments, propelling it into Instagram’s viral orbit.

Fans unfamiliar with Lust’s online humour took the image at face value, while others immediately began questioning the authenticity of the photograph. The buzz intensified because Kohli is known for maintaining a relatively private personal life despite his global fame.

Fans react to Lust and Kohli’s meeting with shock, memes and skepticism

The reactions in the comments section reflected a mix of disbelief and comedy. Some fans joked about Kohli’s marriage to Bollywood actress Anushka Sharma, with remarks like “Anushka Bhabi ka kya hoga?” Others flooded the post with memes and sarcastic takes like “Ek Taraf Hai Gharwali Ek Taraf Baharwali”, while a more skeptical group asked for proof of when and where the meeting supposedly took place.

As screenshots of the post spread to X (formerly Twitter), Reddit and Facebook, debates erupted over whether the image was digitally altered. The confusion itself became part of the viral appeal, with users sharing the photo simply to join the trending conversation.

Twist behind the viral photo

The speculation ended when it became clear that the viral image was completely AI-generated. Lust has a history of sharing humorous, fabricated images with famous personalities, using artificial intelligence as a creative tool. In the past, she has posted similar faux meetups with Bollywood megastars Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan, often leaving followers amused once the truth emerges.

The Kohli post followed the same pattern, playing on the realism of modern AI imagery and the internet’s tendency to react before verifying facts.

Also READ: Virat Kohli to team up with Mr Beast? The American YouTuber with 458 million subscribers makes a public request in a viral video

Kohli busy preparing for New Zealand ODIs

Adding to the improbability of the meetup, Kohli has been in India focusing on cricket commitments. The former India captain has been representing Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy and is preparing for the upcoming India-New Zealand ODI series, scheduled to begin on January 11. There has been no official travel or public appearance linking him to the United Kingdom during this period.

Also READ: Brother Vikas hits back at Virat Kohli’s critics ahead of IND vs NZ ODI series

The first double-header of the WPL 2026 season kicks off with a fascinating contest between two sides eager to establish early dominance. The Gujarat Giants (GG), who finally broke their playoff jinx last season by finishing third, come into this edition with a settled core and renewed confidence under Ashleigh Gardner.

On the other side, the UP Warriorz (UPW) are arguably the most transformed side of the auction. After finishing at the bottom of the table last year, they have hit the reset button in spectacular fashion, bringing in the legendary Meg Lanning to steer the ship. This match isn’t just about points; it’s a battle between Gujarat’s stability and UP’s star-studded overhaul.

Team combinations

The Giants have finally found a formula that works. Retaining Gardner as captain and Beth Mooney at the top provides them with a world-class spine. The addition of Sophie Devine adds immense power to the top order, potentially pairing with Mooney or Danni Wyatt-Hodge. The arrival of Renuka Singh gives them the swing threat they lacked, complementing the spin mastery of Gardner, Georgia Wareham, and Tanuja Kanwer. How they utilize Ashleigh Gardner with the bat. Often floating in the order, her stability at No. 4 will be crucial against UP’s spinners.

All eyes will be on Lanning. The former Delhi Capitals skipper has moved to UPW to lead a revival. The Warriorz broke the bank to re-sign Deepti Sharma (₹3.2 CR) and brought in explosive talents like Deandra Dottin and Phoebe Litchfield (poached from Gujarat). A powerhouse middle order. A batting lineup featuring Lanning, Litchfield, Dottin, and Kiran Navgire is terrifying on paper. Sophie Ecclestone remains the best spinner in the world, and her partnership with Deepti Sharma on the DY Patil surface could be the deciding factor.

GG-W vs UP-W, WPL 2026: Match details

• Date and Time: January 10; 03:30 pm IST/ 10:00 am GMT
• Venue: DY Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai

GG-W vs UP-W, Head-to-Head Record in WPL

Matches played: 6 | Gujarat Giants won: 3 | UP Warriroz won: 3 | No result: 0

Also READ: WPL 2026 Opening Ceremony: Date, Time, Performers and Live Streaming details

Dr DY Patil Sports Academy Pitch Report

The surface at the DY Patil Academy is traditionally a batter’s paradise. It offers good bounce and the ball comes onto the bat nicely, allowing for stroke-making through the line. Being an afternoon game, dew won’t be a major factor, but the heat might be. Expect the captain winning the toss to bowl first, looking to restrict the opposition to under 160 and chase it down on a track that gets better for batting.

Squads:

Gujarat Giants: Ashleigh Gardner (c), Beth Mooney, Sophie Devine, Renuka Singh Thakur, Bharti Fulmali, Titas Sadhu, Kashee Gautam, Kanika Ahuja, Tanuja Kanwer, Georgia Wareham, Anushka Sharma, Happy Kumari, Kim Garth, Yastika Bhatia, Shivani Singh, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Rajeshwari Gayakwad, Ayushi Soni

UP Warriorz: Meg Lanning (c), Shweta Sehrawat, Deepti Sharma, Sophie Ecclestone, Phoebe Litchfield, Kiran Navgire, Harleen Deol, Kranti Goud, Asha Sobhana, Deandra Dottin, Shikha Pandey, Shipra Giri, Simran Shaikh, Chloe Tryon, Suman Meena, G. Trisha, Pratika Rawal, Charli Knott

GG-W vs UP-W, WPL 2026: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Gujarat Giants Women wins the toss and bowl first
• UP Warriorz Bengaluru Women’s powerplay score: 45-55
• UP Warriorz Bengaluru Women’s total score: 140-150

Case 2:

• UP Warriorz Bengaluru Women wins the toss and bowl first
• Gujarat Giants Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
• Gujarat Giants Women’s total score: 155-165

Match result: Team bowling first to win the match.

Also READ: WPL 2026 Schedule: TV channels, Live Streaming details: When and where to watch in India, Australia, US, UK & other countries | Women’s Premier League

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

Big Bash League 2025-26 heats up with a blockbuster showdown at The Gabba, Brisbane, as the table-topping Brisbane Heat take on a resurgent Sydney Thunder in Match 29. This fixture pits Heat’s batting firepower against Thunder’s spin-heavy attack. With playoff spots on the line, expect a high-octane T20 thriller under Brisbane’s summer sun.

Brisbane Heat enjoy a narrow historical advantage over Sydney Thunder, having won eight of their 15 meetings, with Thunder claiming six and one match ending without a result. The Gabba has been a stronghold for the Heat, where they have emerged victorious in five of seven clashes and remain unbeaten in their last four home outings.

Topping the league charts with a batting average of 32.5, Heat have also been clinical while chasing, winning 75 percent of such matches. David Warner’s return has lifted Thunder, helping them secure three wins in five games, though their struggles on the road persist. Heat currently lead the points table with 14 points from nine matches, while Thunder sit fourth with 10 points from eight games.

BH vs ST, BBL|15: Match details

• Date and Time: January 10; 10:30 am IST / 5:00 am GMT / 3:00 pm Local
• Venue: The Gabba, Brisbane

BH vs ST: Head-to-Head Record in BBL

Matches played: 23 | Brisbane Heat won: 14 | Sydney Thunder won: 08 | No result/Tied: 01

Gabba Pitch Report

The Gabba’s pitch for Match 29 in BBL 2025-26 promises a high-scoring spectacle. These drop-in surfaces offer true bounce and lightning-quick outfield, with short straight boundaries (65-70m) favouring aggressive batters—first innings averages hit 178 this season, including Heat’s 214/4 high. Early seam movement aids pacers, but it flattens out for spin in the middle overs. Minimal dew in the 3:00 PM local start keeps bowlers in play. Expect 350+ runs total; teams batting first hold a 60% win rate.

Squads:

Brisbane Heat: Colin Munro, Jack Wildermuth, Matt Renshaw, Hugh Weibgen, Tom Alsop, Max Bryant, Jimmy Peirson (wk), Xavier Bartlett (c), Shaheen Afridi, Liam Haskett, Matthew Kuhnemann, Thomas Balkin, Lachlan Hearne, Ollie Patterson

Sydney Thunder: David Warner (c), Sam Billings, Lockie Ferguson, Daniel Sams, Chris Green, Cameron Bancroft, Wes Agar, Ollie Davies, Shadab Khan, Matthew Gilkes, Tanveer Sangha, Ryan Hadley, Sam Konstas, Nathan McAndrew, Tom Andrews, Ravichandran Ashwin, Blake Nikitaras

Also READ: Ben Dwarshuis, Joel Davies shine as Sydney Sixers pip Melbourne Stars in a low-scoring thriller

BH vs ST, BBL|15: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Brisbane Heat wins the toss and bats first
• Brisbane Heat’s powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Brisbane Heat’s total score: 180-190

Case 2:

• Sydney Thunder wins the toss and bats first
• Sydney Thunder’s powerplay score: 55-65 (6 overs)
• Sydney Thunder’s total score: 190-200

Match result: Team batting first to win the contest

Also WATCH: Hassan Khan plucks a screamer to dismiss Moises Henriques in BBL|15

Former England cricketer Kevin Pietersen has stirred debate by suggesting a major change in England’s coaching setup following the Ashes 2025-26 series. Pietersen floated the idea of bringing back former Zimbabwe cricketer Andy Flower and moving on from current head coach Brendon McCullum.

McCullum is under heavy pressure after England’s poor Ashes tour in Australia. The team went into the series with high hopes, but the performances fell well short. The disappointing result has also hurt England’s standing in Test cricket, pushing them down to seventh place in the ongoing ICC WTC 2025-27 cycle.

Can England Bring Back Andy Flower? – Kevin Pietersen Asks ECB to Sack Brendon McCullum

Kevin Pietersen said that England should consider bringing back Andy Flower as head coach. Pietersen said that Flower has evolved over time and understands modern players better. Kevin Pietersen added that appointing Flower would be a risky move but worth discussing.

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“This is a WILD thought. I reckon one of my wildest. Can England bring back Andy Flower now that he’s changed and in line with the modern day player? He gets Test Cricket,” Kevin Pietersen wrote.

“I’ve been told by many players that he’s changed his ways since our drama. He’s winning leagues so really does get the modern day player. VERY IMPORTANT! Wild, I know! Thoughts?” Kevin Pietersen added.

This is a WILD thought. I reckon one of my wildest.
Can England bring back Andy Flower now that he’s changed and in line with the modern day player?
He gets Test Cricket.
I’ve been told by many players that he’s changed his ways since our drama.
He’s winning leagues so…

— Kevin Pietersen🦏 (@KP24) January 9, 2026

England Struggle for Consistency Under Brendon McCullum

England’s results have failed to meet expectations. After a bright start to his time as head coach, the team has struggled to win major series and has not made a strong impact in Test cricket. England have not been serious contenders in the WTC and have failed to beat top sides like India and Australia.

A major issue has been England’s performances away from home. The team has often used the same aggressive style in all conditions, even when it has not worked. This approach has led to poor results on overseas tours, especially in challenging conditions.

Even in England, the team has not fully taken advantage of home pitches. While McCullum’s overall record since 2022 is not poor, his recent form has been worrying. The England and Wales Cricket Board may have to rethink its plans if England want to stay competitive in the current Test cycle.

Australia Overcome Absentees as England’s Ashes Hopes Fade

Australia were without Josh Hazlewood for the entire series, while Pat Cummins was available only for the Adelaide Test. The hosts also dealt with form issues involving Usman Khawaja and Marnus Labuschagne and handed Jake Weatherald his Test debut, yet England still failed to take control.

The series began disastrously for England in the first Test at Perth, where they were bowled out twice inside two days, lasting just 66.9 overs. Australia then chased down 205 with ease, with Travis Head’s century giving the hosts a 1-0 lead.

England showed more fight in Brisbane and Adelaide, but Australia continued to win the key phases. The visitors finally ended their 18-Test winless streak in Australia with a Boxing Day Test victory inside two days.

That win briefly raised hopes of a 2-3 finish in the five-match series. However, the momentum did not last, as Australia sealed the final Test in Sydney with a five-wicket win to close out the series 4-1. England left the Ashes tour with more regrets than rewards and plenty of familiar “what if” moments.

Also read: Stuart Broad arrogantly guarantees Ashes 2027 win after humiliation in Australia

India’s T20 plans have taken a small hit just before the final ICC T20 World Cup 2026 preparations, and Aakash Chopra feels the answer is very simple. With Tilak Varma ruled out of the start of the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand because of an abdominal injury, Chopra said that the Men in Blue already have an “automatic” replacement available.

Tilak Varma injury opens door as Aakash Chopra pushes Shreyas Iyer’s T20I return

The cricket pandit believes that India should bring Shreyas Iyer straight back into the T20I squad without any second thought for the upcoming T20I series against the Black Caps. Tilak’s injury has created a gap in the middle order at a time when the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 is close.

Given that Chopra feels this is not the time to experiment or shuffle the batting order, saying the team already has enough openers and does not need to push anyone new at the top, and Shreyas Iyer fits perfectly into the middle-order role.

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Read Also: Shreyas Iyer officially appointed as captain on cricket comeback

The former Indian batter further pointed out that Iyer is experienced, understands pressure situations, and is already in good form. Notably, Iyer has already played 51 T20Is for India and scored over 1100 runs, apart from establishing himself as one of the best batters in the IPL.

He fits the bill, and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote: Aakash Chopra

Aakash Chopra said in a video posted on X: “Who can it be? Shreyas Iyer. ‘Sarpanch’ Sahab should be picked automatically. He is already playing well and scored in the Vijay Hazare Trophy too. Even when Iyer was not picked in the Asia Cup, it felt slightly unfair, but it was understandable. But there is an opportunity for a middle-order role here. He is also an experienced player and set the IPL on fire. He fits the bill, and Shreyas Iyer gets my vote.”

Chopra also pointed out that players like Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Ruturaj Gaikwad are all openers, and that is not what the team needs right now. India needs someone who can settle the innings, control the middle overs, and finish strong, and Chopra feels Iyer is the best choice.

Read Also: Rishabh Pant’s T20I comeback staged ahead of T20 World Cup 2026, new role assigned

Chopra Makes Strong Case for Iyer’s Return

The commentator further explained, “India does not need an opener; they need a middle-order batter.” However, he admitted that there are other options available for the middle-order role, like Riyan Parag and Jitesh Sharma, but yet he will go with Iyer.

Chopra signed off by saying, “Riyan Parag could also be one candidate. He was part of the T20I side before and can also bowl. If India is looking for a multi-skilled player, Parag could be that guy. But my vote is for Shreyas Iyer. I would place Parag at No. 2. Jitesh Sharma might have an outside chance, though India does not need three wicketkeepers.”

Notably, the BCCI confirmed that Tilak Varma had surgery for his abdominal issue in Rajkot on January 7. He was discharged the next day, and his condition is stable. The star batter will travel back to Hyderabad on Friday (January 9).

Team India batter Virat Kohli is on the verge of a major milestone in international cricket ahead of the three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The veteran batter has the chance to move into second place on the all-time list of men’s international run-scorers, surpassing Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara.

Kohli trained hard with his teammates in an intense practice session ahead of the series opener in Vadodara. The three-match ODI series will start on January 11 at the BCA Stadium. It will be India’s first international assignment of 2026. After the ODIs, the team will play a five-match T20I series against New Zealand.

Virat Kohli 42 Runs Away From Becoming Second-Highest Run-Scorer

Kohli needs 42 more runs to move into second place on the all-time list of men’s international run-scorers. Kohli has scored 27,975 runs, just behind Kumar Sangakkara, who finished with 28,016 runs.

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Sachin Tendulkar remains far ahead at the top of the elite batters list. Kohli can pass Sangakkara in 624 innings, fewer than the 666 innings Sangakkara took to reach his tally.

Virat Kohli Eyes Major ODI Record Against New Zealand

The 36-year-old needs 93 runs in the upcoming ODI series to become India’s highest run-scorer against New Zealand in the format, going past Sachin Tendulkar. Kohli has scored 1,657 runs against New Zealand from 33 innings, while Tendulkar finished with 1,750 runs in 41 innings.

The senior batter has been in outstanding touch in 50-over cricket. Since the third ODI of the Australia tour, he has registered six straight fifty-plus scores across international matches and the Vijay Hazare Trophy.

He scored an unbeaten 74 against Australia, followed by two centuries against South Africa and a 65 not out that narrowly missed becoming another hundred. Kohli then returned to the Vijay Hazare Trophy after more than a decade and produced back-to-back match-winning knocks of 131 and 77.

India Enter New Zealand ODIs High on Confidence After South Africa Series Win

India come into the New Zealand series after winning a home ODI series against South Africa by 2-1, with Virat Kohli earning the Player of the Series award.

In ODIs between India and New Zealand, the two teams have played 120 matches. India have won 62, New Zealand have won 50, seven games had no result, and one ended in a tie.

Their most recent 50-over meeting came in the 2025 Champions Trophy final, where India, led by Rohit Sharma, beat New Zealand to lift the title in Dubai.

India will also be boosted by the return of captain Shubman Gill and vice-captain Shreyas Iyer, both of whom missed the previous ODI series against South Africa due to injury.

Also read: Virat Kohli’s longstanding relationship with RCB’s home abruptly ends ahead of IPL 2026