As India reflects on its historic Women’s World Cup 2025 triumph, the focus has swiftly shifted toward the future of the team’s leadership. With current captain Harmanpreet Kaur now 36 and entering the twilight of her illustrious career, the search for a long-term successor has intensified. While Smriti Mandhana has long been the frontrunner, South African legend Marizanne Kapp has thrown a curveball by backing a different star. Kapp believes that the next captain should be someone who ‘brings people together’ and possesses an innate ‘caring factor.’ Her endorsement comes at a pivotal time as the WPL 2026 season approaches, marking a significant transition in leadership roles across the league.

Marizanne Kapp endorses Jemimah Rodrigues for India captaincy

In a recent interview on January 5, 2026, Kapp made a strong case for Jemimah Rodrigues to succeed Harmanpreet Kaur as the leader of the national side. Kapp emphasized that she had identified Jemimah as “captaincy material” several years ago, citing her infectious personality and natural ability to lead from the front.

Kapp argued that leadership isn’t just about tactical acumen but also about the personality factor, where Jemimah excels by fostering a sense of unity within the squad. With Jemimah having just guided India to a World Cup title, highlighted by her monumental unbeaten 127 in the semi-final against Australia, Kapp believes the 25-year-old is now fully prepared to handle the immense pressure of leading a cricket-obsessed nation like India.

“I actually said a couple of years ago that Jemimah should be India’s next captain. She’s always been a leader. Her personality, the way she brings people together, the caring factor, that all matters. Even experienced captains face challenges. Jemimah has a lot of senior players around her, and I think she’ll take this opportunity with both hands,” Kapp said in an interview with Cricbuzz.

Also READ: From emerging player to WPL 2026 winner: Deepti Sharma shares bold predictions for the Women’s Premier League

The WPL 2026 leadership shift: From Meg Lanning to Rodrigues

The discussion around Jemimah’s captaincy is no longer theoretical, as she was officially named the Delhi Capitals (DC) captain for the WPL 2026 season. She steps into the massive shoes of the legendary Meg Lanning, who has moved to lead the UP Warriorz. This appointment is seen as a strategic “test run” by the Indian cricketing fraternity to evaluate her leadership in a high-stakes environment.

“Losing Meg as a captain is obviously a big thing. She’s a very successful captain, not only for DC but in world cricket in general,” Kapp added.

DC co-owner Parth Jindal expressed total confidence in her, noting that her journey from being the franchise’s first-ever pick to now leading them in their fourth season is a ‘full-circle moment.’ As DC kicks off their campaign against Mumbai Indians on January 10, all eyes will be on Jemimah to see if she can lead the three-time runners-up to their first title, potentially cementing her claim as Harmanpreet’s heir apparent.

Also READ: India’s rising star Vaishnavi Sharma reveals her top 3 favourite male and female cricketers

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

On January 4, 2026, ahead of India’s first international series of the year, star all-rounder Hardik Pandya and his girlfriend, model Mahieka Sharma, were spotted at Jamnagar Airport alongside veteran batter Rohit Sharma. The group, which included Rohit’s wife Ritika Sajdeh and their young son Ahaan, appeared to be in high spirits as they transitioned from domestic duties to international commitments.

Mahieka Sharma meets Rohit Sharma’s son Ahaan  at Jamnagar Airport

Mahieka, who made her relationship with Hardik ‘Insta-official’ in October 2025, was seen sharing a particularly warm and adorable moment with little Ahaan, who was being carried by Ritika. The viral footage has melted hearts on social media, showcasing a close familial bond between the two cricketing icons’ families as they prepare for a demanding home season.

The viral video captured a rare, candid glimpse of the off-field camaraderie between India’s top cricketers and their families. As they exited the Jamnagar Airport, Mahieka was seen all smiles, playing and interacting with Ahaan Sharma in an adorable” manner while Ritika looked on. Hardik and Mahieka have been the subject of intense media interest since they went public with their relationship; however, this latest outing suggests Mahieka is now a well-integrated part of the team’s inner family circle. The group had reportedly gathered in Jamnagar, a city often used by the Ambani family for high-profile gatherings, possibly for a brief bonding session before the squad assembles in Vadodara on January 7.

Here’s the video:

Ritika holding Ahaan while Mahieka plays with him.🤍

-A cute moment.🤌👌 pic.twitter.com/RD7xWs5Sox

— Rohit Nation (@Rohitnation45) January 4, 2026

Also WATCH: Naseem Shah and Kieron Pollard engage in a heated verbal exchange during ILT20 final between Desert Vipers and MI Emirates

Rohit’s red-hot form and Hardik’s workload management

While the families shared a lighthearted moment, the professional contrast between the two stars for the upcoming New Zealand ODI series is significant. Rohit Sharma enters the series in peak physical and competitive condition, whereas Hardik Pandya will be watching the 50-over leg from the sidelines.

• Rohit Sharma’s dominance: Rohit has been in blistering form, recording scores of 73, 121, 57, 14, and 75* in his last five ODIs. He recently validated his readiness by smashing a massive 155 off 94 balls for Mumbai in the Vijay Hazare Trophy.
• Hardik’s T20 focus: Despite a brilliant 133 for Baroda recently, Hardik has been rested for the ODIs. The BCCI stated he is currently not fit to bowl a full 10-over quota in the 50-over format. With the T20 World Cup 2026 scheduled for February, the selectors are prioritizing his fitness for the T20I leg, which begins on January 21.

Also READ: From emerging player to WPL 2026 winner: Deepti Sharma shares bold predictions for the Women’s Premier League

Fans erupted in frenzy as Travis Head‘s ferocious 91 not out overshadowed Joe Root‘s gritty 160 on a thrilling Day 2 of the 5th Ashes Test at Sydney Cricket Ground on January 4, 2026. Australia, already clinching the series 3-1, trail England‘s first innings 384 by 218 runs at 166/2 after 34.1 overs. The Pink Ashes finale delivered edge-of-seat drama with centuries contested and boundaries flying under Sydney skies.​

Joe Root’s resilient century takes England to a formidable total

England resumed at 211/3 with Root on 72 and Harry Brook on 78, building momentum on a batter-friendly pitch. Root anchored the innings masterfully, converting his overnight score into a majestic 160 off 242 balls with 15 fours, his 41st Test ton equalling Ricky Ponting‘s mark. He shared a crucial 169-run stand with Brook (84 off 97, 6×4, 1×6) before Brook fell to Scott Boland at 226/4, then added 94 with Jamie Smith (46, 6×4, 1×6) to push past 300 in 69.1 overs.​

Stokes (0) departed cheaply to Mitchell Starc soon after, but Root hit 150 off 226 balls amid partnerships like the 50-run seventh-wicket effort with Will Jacks (27). Michael Neser shone with 4/60, dismissing Root caught-and-bowled at 384/9, followed by Josh Tongue (0), as England folded in 97.3 overs at 3.93 RR. Boland (2/85) and Starc (2/93) supported, with surprise wickets from Marnus Labuschagne and Cameron Green, handing Australia a target to chase aggressively.​

Travis Head’s explosive counterattack puts Australia on the driving seat at the end of Day 2

Australia’s reply ignited with openers Head and Jake Weatherald racing to 57/0 in 12 overs, crossing 50 in 9.2 overs. Weatherald (21, 4×4) fell lbw to Stokes at 57/1, but Head’s onslaught—50 off 55 balls (9×4)—propelled a 105-run second wicket alliance with Labuschagne (48, 7×4). They hit 100 in 20.3 overs and 150 in 28.5, despite DRS drama including Weatherald’s review and England’s failed lbw call on Labuschagne.​

Stokes struck again, snaring Labuschagne at 162/2 in 30.6 overs, but unbeaten Head (91 off 87, 15×4, SR 104.59) dominated England’s attack. Matthew Potts leaked 58/0 in 7 overs, Brydon Carse 43/0 in 9, and Tongue 31/0 in 10, as Australia motored at 4.85 RR with 43/1 in last 10 overs. Rain and gloom ended play early, leaving Head poised to eclipse Root’s effort and tilt Day 3 decisively.

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Fans go gaga as Joe Root equals Ricky Ponting with a magnificent 41st Test ton vs Australia on Day 2 of Sydney Test

Here’s how fans reacted:

Only batter to score more than 400 runs in BGT 2025 – Travis Head.

Only batter to score more than 500 runs in Ashes 2026 – Travis Head.

THE MOST IMPACTFUL BATTER IN INTERNATIONAL CRICKET IN THIS DECADE. 🦁 pic.twitter.com/dqzCiBqMfX

— Johns. (@CricCrazyJohns) January 5, 2026

Travis Head scored more than 400 runs as a middle order batter in the BGT.

Travis Head scored more than 500 runs as an opener in the Ashes.

HEAD – ONE OF THE MOST VERSATILE BATTER. pic.twitter.com/iEND1td7n1

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) January 5, 2026

Half a decade has passed and there is no doubt that Travis Head is the best cricketer of this decade. pic.twitter.com/XCqFeEGNry

— Vivek (@Hailkohli18) January 5, 2026

Travis Head might be the only player whom nobody can decode—how he does what he does. pic.twitter.com/ldXA1ufslz

— 𝐊𝐨𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐭!𝟎𝐧_👑🚩 (@bholination) January 5, 2026

Travis Head in The ashes series 2025-26.

21(35), 123(83), 33(43), 22(22), 10(28), 170(219), 12(22), 46(67), 91*(87) Today. pic.twitter.com/6yl2HerIyt

— The sports (@the_sports_x) January 5, 2026

Travis Head was the highest run scorer in the 2024-2025 BGT series & now he’s again the highest run scorer of 2025-2026 Ashes.

Travis Head’s prime in international cricket is not discussed as much as it should be, but he is silently dominating every series. pic.twitter.com/1z97EVzNiI

— Sohel. (@SohelVkf) January 5, 2026

Only batter to score more than 400 runs in BGT 2025 – Travis Head.

Only batter to score more than 500 runs in Ashes 2026 – Travis Head.

THE MOST IMPACTFUL BATTER IN INTERNATIONAL CRICKET IN THIS DECADE. 🦁 uff off pic.twitter.com/kIRp4tmVrM

— Tripurari Chaudhary (@TripurariMedia) January 5, 2026

Travis Head scored more than 400 runs as a middle order batter in the BGT.

Travis Head scored more than 500 runs as an opener in the Ashes.

HEAD – ONE OF THE MOST VERSATILE BATTER. pic.twitter.com/cm2OjGql7W

— jatin shrivastava (@jatinshriv2913) January 5, 2026

Travis Head ends the day on 91* as Australia fight back strongly after Joe Root’s 160 pic.twitter.com/MV0uBNIf6L

— Root Jaiswal (@JaiswalRoot) January 5, 2026

Day 2, Stumps

Australia: 166/2, trail by 218 runs ⚡

– Travis Head is on 91 not out#Ashes2025 #Australia pic.twitter.com/XsbNqYKFo1

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 5, 2026

TRAVIS HEAD MAKES ASHES HISTORY! 🔥2nd Aussie opener with 500+ runs in a 21st Century Ashes series, after David Warner did that in 2013/14. pic.twitter.com/lXTL9awleZ

— The sports (@the_sports_x) January 5, 2026

Also READ: Alastair Cook opens up on possibility of becoming England’s next head coach

Australia batting maestro Meg Lanning expressed immense pride upon her appointment as captain of UP Warriorz for the Women’s Premier League 2026 season, calling it a ‘real honour’ to lead the revamped side. The franchise made the announcement on January 4, 2026, signaling a bold leadership shift ahead of the tournament’s fourth edition starting later this month. Lanning steps into the role with a glittering resume, having guided Delhi Capitals to three straight WPL finals before her INR 1.9 crore move to Warriorz at the mega auction.​

UP Warriorz names Meg Lanning their new captain for WPL 2026  

Warriorz handed the captaincy to Lanning, succeeding Deepti Sharma, who steered the team during the 2025 season amid Alyssa Healy‘s injury absence. Healy, the original skipper for 2023 and 2024, missed the entire 2025 campaign due to a foot stress injury and subsequent knee issues, paving the way for Deepti’s interim leadership that yielded just three wins from eight matches, landing fifth. Both Healy, who went unsold and Deepti, re-signed for INR 3.2 crore via Right to Match, were released pre-auction as Warriorz rebuilt under head coach Abhishek Nayar.​

Nayar praised Lanning’s poise, stating she offers a rare combination of experience, clarity, and calmness ideal for high-stakes games, backed by her 952 runs in 27 WPL outings, third on the all-time list.

“Meg brings a rare combination of experience, clarity, and calmness that sets her apart as a leader. Her understanding of the game, ability to manage high-pressure moments, and connect with players makes her the ideal captain for this group,” Nayar was quoted as saying by Cricbuzz.

A seven-time World Cup winner with Australia, including one ODI title and four T20 crowns as captain, Lanning’s tactical acumen shone in leading the Delhi side to consistent finals. The franchise eyes redemption after playoff glory in 2023 (third place, eliminator loss to Mumbai Indians), fourth in 2024, and a dismal 2025 bottom finish.​

Also READ: From emerging player to WPL 2026 winner: Deepti Sharma shares bold predictions for the Women’s Premier League

Lanning’s thoughts on taking charge of UP Warriorz ahead of WPL 2026

As per Cricbuzz, Lanning highlighted the squad’s blend of global stars and Indian talent, vowing collective effort to chase the elusive WPL title.

“This talented group… I’m really looking forward to the challenge ahead. We’ll work hard together and give ourselves every opportunity to lift the trophy,” Lanning shared, noting the league’s rising standards in its fourth year.

Key buys like England‘s Sophie Ecclestone (INR 85 lakh RTM) and Australia’s Phoebe Litchfield (INR 1.2 crore) bolster a core featuring retained Shweta Sehrawat, aiming for better cohesion after past inconsistencies.​

Under Lanning’s steady hand, Warriorz stand poised to overcome their history of near-misses and end the title drought. Capri Sports’ franchise heralds this as a fresh chapter, with Lanning’s proven coolness under fire from Australia’s dominant era setting the stage for WPL 2026 success. Cricket fans are eagerly awaiting her influence from the dugout at Lucknow’s Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium.​

Also READ: 3 reasons why Gujarat Giants will excel under the leadership of Ashleigh Gardner in WPL 2026

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

The International League T20 (ILT20) 2025-26 season reached a dramatic conclusion at the Dubai International Stadium on January 4, 2026. While the final was a spectacle of elite franchise cricket, the match was momentarily overshadowed by a high-voltage confrontation between two of the game’s most intense competitors: MI Emirates captain Kieron Pollard and Pakistan‘s pace spearhead, playing for Desert Vipers, Naseem Shah.

The heated face-off during ILT20 final: Kieron Pollard and Naseem Shah’s verbal spat

The friction between the two stars ignited during the 11th over of the Emirates run chase. After Pollard played a defensive stroke to a well-directed, good-length delivery, the ball rolled back toward Naseem. The young pacer, seemingly enjoying the tactical upper hand against the veteran, picked up the ball and let out a visible, mocking chuckle directly at the captain.

Pollard, known for his no-nonsense on-field persona, was visibly incensed by the gesture. He immediately abandoned his crease and marched toward the bowler, sparking a fiery verbal altercation that stopped the game for several minutes. As the two players stood inches apart trading barbs, Naseem refused to retreat, matching Pollard’s intensity. The situation became so tense that on-field umpires and Vipers fielder Jason Roy had to physically intervene to separate them. The confrontation served as a turning point in the match’s psychological battle, as Naseem’s refusal to be intimidated seemed to galvanize the Vipers’ bowling unit.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: “They do not want him in the ODI team”: Mohammed Shami’s childhood coach slams Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel

Naseem’s three-wicket masterclass and title victory for Desert Vipers over MI Emirates

Despite the mid-pitch drama, Naseem ensured he had the definitive final laugh through his performance with the ball. He had already set the tone early in the innings by removing dangerous openers Andre Fletcher and Tom Banton, but his most satisfying moment came in the 16th over. With MI Emirates needing a miracle, Naseem returned to the attack and dismissed Pollard for a struggling 28 off 28 balls, effectively ending any hopes of an Emirates comeback.

Naseem finished with elite figures of 3/18 in his four overs, playing a starring role alongside David Payne to bundle out MI Emirates for 136. The Vipers, led by an unbeaten 74 from Sam Curran, secured a comprehensive 46-run victory to lift their first-ever ILT20 trophy. The victory was particularly sweet for Naseem, who not only outplayed his rival but also proved instrumental in helping the Vipers win $700,000 in prize money and the prestigious Black Belt.

Also READ: No Mohmmad Rizwan as Pakistan unveils provisional squad for the T20 World Cup 2026

In an incredible moment of skill on Day 2 of Sydney Test against Australia, Michael Neser claimed an unforgettable caught and bowled to dismiss Joe Root for 160, ending a magnificent knock by the England batter. Root’s knock had been an innings of great resilience, lasting 242 balls and featuring 15 boundaries, but the spectacular dismissal by Neser brought an end to his century-long resistance.

Ashes 2025-26: Michael Neser’s brilliant catch at full stretch to dismiss Joe Root

Neser’s catch was the turning point in a tense and hard-fought session. Root had been playing exceptionally well, having already amassed a magnificent 160, and had settled into a rhythm that had the England team looking comfortable. Neser, bowling with intensity, delivered a back-of-a-length ball aimed at the body. Root tried to work the ball to the leg side, but the extra bounce caught him off guard.

The delivery was slightly higher than expected, and as Root attempted to direct it, the leading edge popped up awkwardly. Neser, quickly reacting to the chance, sprinted to his right and flung himself full stretch to complete a diving catch, showing remarkable athleticism. This wicket brought England to 384/9, as Root’s departure handed Australia a significant breakthrough in a highly competitive Test.

Here’s the video:

It took an absolute blinder from Michael Neser to dismiss Joe Root, who departs for 160 👏 #Ashes pic.twitter.com/tqgTTDGBkZ

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 5, 2026

Also READ: Alastair Cook opens up on possibility of becoming England’s next head coach

Root’s masterful 160 leads England to strong position in Sydney Ashes Test

Root’s brilliant knock of 160 anchored England’s innings on Day 2 of the 5th Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground, putting the visitors in a commanding position. Root’s innings was a perfect blend of patience and aggression, as he faced 242 balls and struck 15 boundaries. Despite losing wickets around him, Root’s resilience ensured that England could set a daunting target for Australia, with his innings standing out as the highlight of the day.

Root was dismissed by Neser in a spectacular caught-and-bowled effort, a moment of brilliance that left the Sydney crowd in awe. England ended their innings at 384, with significant contributions from Harry Brook (84) and Jamie Smith (46). Australia’s bowlers, particularly Neser with 4 wickets, worked hard but were unable to stop Root’s dominance. With Australia needing 385 to take a lead, the day concluded with the hosts trailing by 348 runs at 36/0, requiring a strong chase on Day 3 to stay in the match.

Also WATCH: Ashes 2025-26: Australia and England players unite to give Guard of Honour to Bondi terror attack victims at SCG

The exclusion of Mohammed Shami from India’s squad for the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand has sparked sharp criticism, with the veteran pacer’s childhood coach openly questioning the decision-making of the selectors. The three-match series begins on January 11, but Shami’s name was notably absent from the 15-man squad announced on Saturday.

Shami, 35, had been widely expected to return to the ODI setup after delivering an impressive performance in the ongoing Vijay Hazare Trophy, India’s premier 50-over domestic competition. His omission, therefore, has come as a major surprise to fans and former players.

Mohammed Shami’s childhood coach questions Ajit Agarkar-led selection panel

Reacting strongly to the snub, Shami’s childhood coach Badruddin Siddique expressed frustration at what he sees as a lack of clarity and fairness in the selection process overseen by Ajit Agarkar, who currently heads the national selection committee.

“What more can a player do? How many more wickets should the player take?” the coach told India Today, voicing disbelief at the decision. His remarks reflect a broader concern among Shami’s supporters, who believe the pacer has done everything required at the domestic level to earn a recall.

The coach further suggested that Shami’s exclusion could signal a worrying shift in the selectors’ plans, hinting that the door to India’s ODI side may be closing for the seasoned fast bowler.

Shami’s impressive Vijay Hazare Trophy performance ignored by selectors

Shami’s numbers in the Vijay Hazare Trophy underline why his omission has raised eyebrows. Representing Bengal, he has picked up 11 wickets in just five matches, consistently troubling batters with pace, seam movement, and accuracy. His performances were seen as a clear statement of intent, particularly after injury setbacks earlier in the year.

Despite this, Shami did not find a place in the Shubman Gill-led ODI squad, leading many to question whether domestic performances are still being given due weight in selection decisions.

Shami’s coach did not hide his concern that the snub could effectively mark the end of the pacer’s ODI journey. “This means that they do not want him in the ODI team. He has a lot to give,” he said, emphasizing that Shami’s experience and skill remain valuable assets.

Having been a key figure in India’s white-ball success over the years, Shami’s potential sidelining raises questions about how the team plans to transition from seasoned campaigners to younger talent, especially with major tournaments on the horizon.

Also READ: Shreyas Iyer IN, Ruturaj Gaikwad OUT as BCCI announce India squad for New Zealand ODIs

India’s pace attack to continue without Shami 

The decision to leave out Shami is further magnified by the fact that Jasprit Bumrah has also been rested for the New Zealand ODIs. In their absence, India’s pace attack will be led by Mohammed Siraj, alongside youngsters Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana.

All-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy has been named as the fifth seam option, highlighting the selectors’ preference for a younger, more flexible pace unit.

Also READ: 7 Indian players who featured in T20 World Cup 2024 but won’t play in 2026 edition

The Big Bash League (BBL|15) heads north on Monday as Sydney Sixers take on Brisbane Heat at the picturesque Coffs Harbour International Stadium. With the league phase entering the mid-stage, both sides will be keen to build momentum away from their traditional home venues.

Kane Richardson returns to strengthen Sydney Sixers bowling attack

Sydney Sixers have made a key change to their squad, bringing experienced fast bowler Kane Richardson back into the mix for the Coffs Harbour encounter. Richardson’s return adds depth and experience to the Sixers’ pace unit, particularly valuable on a surface that could offer assistance to seamers under lights.

To accommodate Richardson, the Sixers have left out Jafer Chohan, with the international signing having featured in only two matches in BBL|15 so far. While Chohan showed flashes of promise, the Sixers appear to have opted for Richardson’s proven reliability as the tournament intensifies.

The move signals a tactical shift by the Sixers, who are looking to fine-tune their combination ahead of the finals push.

Brisbane Heat sticks with their winning combination

In contrast, Brisbane Heat have opted for stability, naming an unchanged squad following their impressive victory over the previously undefeated Melbourne Stars on Friday, January 2. That result not only boosted the Heat’s confidence but also demonstrated their ability to close out high-pressure chases.

Opener Max Bryant was the standout performer in that match, producing a blistering unbeaten 48 from just 26 deliveries. His clean hitting at the death transformed the contest and showcased the aggressive brand of cricket the Heat are aiming to play this season.

SS vs BH, BBL|15: Match details

• Date and Time: January 5; 1:45 pm IST / 8:15 am GMT / 7:15 pm Local
• Venue: International Sports Stadium, Coffs Harbour

SS vs BH, Head-to-Head Record in BBL

Matches played: 23 | Sydney Sixers won: 15 | Brisbane Heat won: 07 | No result/Tied: 1

International Sports Stadium Pitch Report

The International Sports Stadium in Coffs Harbour offers a grass surface that provides early assistance to seamers with consistent bounce before settling into a batting-friendly pitch as the game goes on, making it well suited for T20 cricket.

Teams batting first have enjoyed clear success here, winning around 60-75% of matches, with par scores typically ranging between 150 and 180. While dew can help chasing sides under lights, seam movement often remains a factor. Fast bowlers account for most wickets, with spinners coming into play later as the surface wears.

The venue has a capacity of 20,000 and is equipped with floodlights. Winning the toss usually prompts captains to bat first, particularly when dry conditions are expected.

Squads

Sydney Sixers: Sean Abbott, Babar Azam, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques (c), Daniel Hughes, Hayden Kerr, Ben Manenti, Mitch Perry, Josh Philippe, Kane Richardson, Lachlan Shaw, Jordan Silk

Brisbane Heat: Tom Balkin, Xavier Bartlett, Max Bryant, Liam Haskett, Lachlan Hearne, Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan McSweeney (c), Colin Munro, Oli Patterson, Jimmy Peirson, Matthew Renshaw, Hugh Weibgen, Jack Wildermuth, Jack Wood

Also READ: BBL|15 – David Warner’s century in vain as Hobart Hurricanes pull off a record run chase at ENGIE Stadium

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

Case 1:

• Sydney Sixers wins the toss and bowls first
• Brisbane Heat’s powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Brisbane Heat’s total score: 160-170

Case 2:

• Brisbane Heat wins the toss and bowls first
• Sydney Sixers’ powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• Sydney Sixers’ total score: 180-190

Match result: Sydney Sixers to win the contest.

Also READ: 4 Australian players who featured in T20 World Cup 2024 but won’t play in 2026 edition

Former Team India opener Sunil Gavaskar has slammed England’s batting after their poor performances against Australia in the ongoing Ashes 2025-26 series. Gavaskar also pointed out the irony in England’s struggles, reminding them that they had criticized India during the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025.

Australia and England are contesting the fifth and final Test of the Ashes at the Sydney Cricket Ground. England showed improved batting form on the opening day, reaching 211/3 by stumps. However, Australia retained the Ashes after winning the first three Tests, while England managed to claim the fourth match.

English Players Mocked Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar – Sunil Gavaskar

In his column for Mid-Day, Sunil Gavaskar recalled that England players mocked Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar for batting on to reach their centuries. Sunil Gavaskar pointed out that England are now facing similar batting problems in Australia.

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“All those English players who mocked Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar when they opted to bat on and get to their centuries and not accept the offer to go off the field will have realised that Test match centuries don’t come every day. Those who derided and mocked them then for batting on are finding in Australia that their bats have only edges or holes in the middle,” Gavaskar wrote.

“Both the Indian batters had battled their way to their individual 80s and frustrated the bowlers and with another Test to go, were doing the tactical thing in keeping the fielders in the sun for some more time and were perfectly entitled to do so. Cricket is a great leveller and anybody who shows arrogance as different from confidence gets to learn that very quickly,” he added.

England Have a Chance of Ending the Tour On a High – Sunil Gavaskar

Sunil Gavaskar took a brutal dig at Harry Brook, who is often labelled a “generational talent.” Gavaskar noted that Brook arrived in the Ashes 2025-26 with big expectations but has failed to deliver consistently, managing only modest returns across the first four Tests.

“England have a chance of ending the tour on a high and beginning the new year with a win and keep their chances of qualifying for the WTC final next year. For that to happen, it is important that the ‘generational talent’ in their team come of age and live up to the expectations.”

“However, as we have seen so far, success has been elusive, and hopefully the ‘generational talent’ will deliver in this generation and not the next,” wrote Gavaskar (via the aforementioned source).

Joe Root and Harry Brook Lead England’s Fightback in Final Ashes Test

England’s batting struggles have been evident through most of the Ashes, with the team crossing 300 only twice in eight innings and being bowled out under 200 on three occasions. However, signs of improvement finally appeared in the fifth and final Test in Sydney.

After winning the toss at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 4, England slipped to 57/3 on day one. Joe Root and Harry Brook then rescued the side with a strong counter-attack. The pair added an unbroken 154-run partnership, taking England to 211/3 before bad light and rain ended play early.

Root finished the day unbeaten on 72, while Brook remained not out on 78, showing control and intent despite pressure from Australia’s fast bowlers. Their stand gave England the upper hand on a rain-hit opening day.

Also read: Steve Smith makes a stunning retirement revelation after Usman Khawaja’s exit in Ashes 2025-26

Sydney Sixers will take on the Brisbane Heat in the twenty-fourth match of the Big Bash League. This article contains information regarding the SYS vs BRH Head-to-Head records in this particular competition.

SYS vs BRH Head-to-Head Records- BBL 2025-26, Match 24:

Stats	Matches	SYS won	BRH won	Draw	Tied	NR
Overall	25	15	7	0	0	3
At International Sports Stadium	1	0	1	0	0	0
In the last 5 matches	5	2	3	0	0	0

SYS vs BRH Head-to-Head Records- Key Statistics

Sydney Sixers and the Brisbane Heat have played 25 games as far as the Big Bash League is concerned, with the former having the upper hand.

The Sixers have got the better of the Heat on 15 occasions, while the Heat have managed to come out on the right side of the result in seven games, with the remaining three games ending without a result.

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When it comes to the result of the last five SYS vs BRH games, it paints a more competitive picture, which sees the Brisbane Heat having a slight lead.

The former BBL Champions have got rid of the Sixers in three games, while the Sixers have won two matches against the Heat in the same time frame.

The two teams will go head-to-head for the 26th time in this competition, which will also be the second instance of them being involved in a fixture at the International Sports Stadium.

The International Sports Stadium in Coffs Harbour has hosted one game between the Sydney Sixers and the Brisbane Heat.

It was the Brisbane Heat that came out on top in that result after a three-run win on the DLS method, and would look to double it up in the upcoming match.

While the Sydney Sixers would want to get off the mark against the Brisbane Heat at this venue, and will put their best foot forward in a bid to achieve that particular goal by replicating the same performance they delivered in the last match.