In a strategic move ahead of the Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 season, Delhi Capitals (DC) announced the signing of Australian leg-spinner Alana King as a replacement for all-rounder Annabel Sutherland, who has withdrawn due to personal reasons. The JSW-GMR co-owned franchise recently confirmed the development, signaling a notable tactical shift just few days before the new season.

Perennial finalists in all three editions of the WPL so far, Delhi Capitals are once again shaping their squad with the clear aim of going one step further and lifting their first title.

Excitement builds as Alana King joins Delhi brigade

The announcement sparked immediate excitement within the Capitals camp. Team captain Jemimah Rodrigues welcomed Alana with an enthusiastic social media post, highlighting her big-tournament pedigree and recent form. The franchise’s official handle followed suit, unveiling a vibrant graphic of Alana in Delhi Capitals colours, skateboarding through graffiti-laced visuals that symbolised her dynamic on-field personality. The caption, “Dilli ki Queen,” quickly caught on with fans.

Hashtags such as #DilliKiQueen and #AlanaKingDC began trending, reflecting the buzz around the signing and the expectations surrounding King’s role in the upcoming season.

Annabel Sutherland exit forces tactical pivot

Annabel Sutherland’s withdrawal is a significant loss for Delhi Capitals. The 23-year-old Australian all-rounder had been an important part of the squad over the past two seasons, offering pace bowling options and late-order hitting. Retained for ₹2.2 crore ahead of the auction, Sutherland’s unavailability forced the franchise to rethink its balance.

Rather than seeking a like-for-like seam-bowling all-rounder, Delhi opted to strengthen their spin department. Alana King comes in at a reserve price of ₹60 lakh, representing a clear shift in strategy from seam-heavy depth to spin variety – an approach that could prove decisive on Indian surfaces.

Alana King’s credentials and experience in Indian conditions

Now 30, King brings an impressive resume to the Capitals. She rose to global prominence with a sensational spell of 7 for 18 against South Africa at the Women’s Cricket World Cup, one of the finest bowling performances in tournament history. Across 27 T20Is, King has claimed 27 wickets at an economy rate of just 6.58, underlining her control and wicket-taking ability.

Her recent Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) campaign with Perth Scorchers further showcased her value, as she picked up 12 wickets in 13 matches and helped the Scorchers reach the final as runners-up. Although she went unsold at the WPL 2026 auction, Alana is no stranger to Indian conditions, having previously featured in one match for UP Warriorz last season.

Also READ: Ellyse Perry, Annabel Sutherland pull out of WPL 2026 due to personal reasons

Delhi Capitals looking forward to Mumbai Indians clash and maiden WPL title

Delhi Capitals will begin their WPL 2026 campaign against Mumbai Indians (MI) on January 10 at the DY Patil Stadium, a fixture that revisits memories of past final heartbreaks. Alana’s arrival could prove pivotal on spin-friendly tracks as Delhi once again chase the elusive title after three runner-up finishes.

As other franchises also adjust their squads, the Capitals appear spin-enriched, energized, and hungry. With Alana’s flair and experience added to the mix, Delhi’s quest for WPL glory in 2026 looks more compelling than ever.

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 release of Mustafizur Rahman from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) squad ahead of IPL 2026 has snowballed into a major administrative dispute between the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).

Mustafizur, who was bought by KKR for ₹9.2 crore at the mini-auction, was officially released on January 2, following a directive from the BCCI. The decision cited “recent developments” amid rising political tensions and reported violence against minorities in Bangladesh, raising broader concerns about player security and diplomatic sensitivities.

BCCI confirms directive behind Mustafizur’s IPL exit

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that franchises were instructed to release the Bangladeshi pacer, while clarifying that KKR would be allowed to sign a replacement. He also stated that, as of now, the BCCI has not received any official communication from the Indian government regarding restrictions on foreign players.

Despite this clarification, the move has been perceived in Bangladesh as a signal that Bangladeshi cricketers may face uncertainty when playing in India – an interpretation that has escalated the issue beyond the IPL.

Bangladesh pushes for the movement of T20 World Cup matches

In response, the Bangladesh Sports Ministry stepped in. Adviser Asif Nazrul instructed the BCB to formally approach the International Cricket Council with a request to move Bangladesh’s Group A matches of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 from India to Sri Lanka.

Bangladesh are scheduled to face England, Italy, Nepal and West Indies in the group stage.

Nazrul, writing in Bengali on Facebook, stated that if a Bangladeshi player under contract cannot play in India, then the national team cannot feel assured about safety while travelling there. He added that the matter must be formally documented and placed before the ICC, along with a clear request to stage Bangladesh’s matches in Sri Lanka instead.

BCCI rejects feasibility of venue shift

The BCCI has responded firmly, calling the proposed venue shift impractical with the tournament less than a month away. A senior BCCI source dismissed the demand, highlighting the logistical complexity involved in altering a World Cup schedule at such a late stage.

According to the source, match-day logistics – including international travel, hotel bookings, broadcast arrangements, and venue coordination – have already been finalized. With three matches scheduled on most days across India and Sri Lanka, relocating fixtures would disrupt not just Bangladesh’s plans but also those of multiple opposition teams and broadcasters.

“You can’t just change games at someone’s whims and fancies. It is a logistical nightmare. Think about opposition teams. Their air tickets, hotels are booked,” the BCCI source was quoted as saying by NDTV.

“Also on all days there are three games each which means one game is in Sri Lanka. There is broadcast crew. So it will be easier said than done,” he added.

Also READ: Amid Mustafizur Rahman row, BCB urge ICC to relocate Bangladesh’s T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India

Growing tension ahead of marquee ICC event

The controversy has cast an unexpected shadow over preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026, raising questions about how geopolitical issues intersect with global sporting events. While the BCCI maintains that Mustafizur’s IPL release does not automatically translate into national-team safety concerns, Bangladesh officials appear unconvinced.

With the ICC yet to respond publicly, the standoff places the governing body in a delicate position. Any decision will need to balance logistical realities with diplomatic sensitivities, all while ensuring player safety and tournament integrity.

As things stand, Bangladesh’s matches remain scheduled in India, and BCCI sources remain confident no changes will be made. However, the Mustafizur Rahman episode has already ensured that the lead-up to the T20 World Cup 2026 will be closely watched—both on and off the field.

Also READ: Bangladesh name squad for T20 World Cup 2026; no place for Jaker Ali

The Melbourne derby lived up to its billing as the Melbourne Renegades held their nerve to register a four-wicket victory over the Melbourne Stars in Match 22 of the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025–26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Chasing a competitive 174, the Renegades leaned on a match-defining knock from Josh Brown to overhaul the target with one ball to spare.

Melbourne Stars stumble to 173 despite late flourish

Asked to bat first after losing the toss, the Stars never quite found sustained momentum. Early wickets put them on the back foot, with Tom Fraser Rogers and Sam Harper providing brief sparks at the top. Campbell Kellaway anchored the innings with a composed 33, but the middle order failed to build partnerships as Glenn Maxwell and Blake Macdonald departed cheaply.

The innings found impetus late thanks to Hilton Cartwright and Tom Curran. Cartwright’s busy 28 kept the scoreboard ticking before Curran unleashed a blistering 38 off just 18 balls, striking seven boundaries to lift the Stars to a defendable 173/9. For the Renegades, Gurinder Sandhu was the standout with a four-wicket haul, while Callum Stow and Hassan Khan chipped in with timely strikes to keep the Stars in check.

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

Josh Brown leads Renegades’ to thrilling win

In response, the Renegades were given a flying start by Brown, who dominated the powerplay with a series of crisp drives and powerful pulls. Despite early setbacks, including the dismissals of Tim Seifert and Jake Fraser-McGurk, Brown held firm at one end.

Mohammad Rizwan played the ideal supporting role, rotating the strike and ensuring the chase stayed on track. Brown’s authoritative 84 off 48 balls, laced with nine fours and four sixes, laid the foundation for victory before he fell in the closing overs. With the equation tightening, Will Sutherland provided the finishing touches, striking two towering sixes in a brisk cameo to seal the chase at 177/6 in 19.5 overs.

The Stars’ bowlers struggled to apply consistent pressure on a batting-friendly surface. Haris Rauf and Peter Siddle picked up two wickets apiece but conceded runs at crucial stages, while Marcus Stoinis proved expensive in the death overs. Mitchell Swepson was the most economical, but the lack of breakthroughs in the middle overs allowed the Renegades to stay ahead of the required rate.

Player of the match batting performance from Josh Brown ⚡#JoshBrown #BBL2025 pic.twitter.com/R3EoGpWhYL

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 4, 2026

Also READ: Max Bryant’s explosive knock guides Brisbane Heat to a thrilling victory over Melbourne Stars in BBL|15

The 13th Match of SA20 2026 will take place between MI Cape Town and Paarl Royals on January 04. The clash will be hosted by the iconic Newlands in Cape Town.

For the home side, MI Cape Town, the situation is becoming desperate. Languishing at the bottom of the table with zero wins from four matches (3 losses, 1 No Result), they are in urgent need of points to keep their playoff hopes alive. Their narrow loss on Friday showed fighting spirit, but they failed to close out the game when it mattered most.

The Paarl Royals, currently sitting comfortably in 3rd place with 8 points, will be brimming with confidence. Their ability to defend a total under immense pressure in the previous match has validated their bowling depth, and their young batting stars are beginning to fire.

MICT vs PR, SA20 2025-26: Match details

• Date and Time: January 4 (Saturday); 7:00 pm IST / 01:30 pm GMT / 3:30 pm Local
  Venue: Newlands, Cape Town

MICT vs PR, Head-to-Head Record in SA20 2025-26:

Matches played: 8 | MI Cape Town won: 5 | Paarl Royals won: 3 | No result/Tied: 0

Newlands Pitch Report

Newlands has been a batting paradise this season. In the two completed matches here so far, first-innings scores were 232 and 220. MI Cape Town themselves scored 217 in a losing cause. Expect a high-scoring affair where 200 is par. Bowlers will need to rely on variations, but pace and bounce are generally true.

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:

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

Paarl Royals: Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Asa Tribe, David Miller (c), Sikandar Raza, Delano Potgieter, Rubin Hermann, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Bjorn Fortuin, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Nqobani Mokoena, Ottneil Baartman, Vishen Halambage, Dan Lawrence, Hardus Viljoen, Gudakesh Motie, Okuhle Cele, Nqabayomzi Peter, Eshan Malinga, Thomas Rew, Keagan Lion Cachet

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

Case 1:

• MI Cape Town wins the toss and bats first
• MI Cape Town’s powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• MI Cape Town’s total score: 190-200

Case 2:

• Paarl Royals wins the toss and bats first
• Paarl Royals’ powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Paarl Royals’ total score: 170-180

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

Former Australia opener David Warner rolled back the years with a brutal unbeaten century, but his heroics were overshadowed as Hobart Hurricanes completed a record-breaking run chase against Sydney Thunder in a BBL|15 run-fest at the ENGIE Stadium.

Warner smashed 130 not out off 65 deliveries, hammering 11 fours and nine sixes in an innings that rewrote the record books. It was the highest individual score of BBL|15 and the highest ever by a Sydney Thunder batter. Despite the scale of the knock, Thunder were left empty-handed as the Hurricanes chased down the daunting target with 13 balls to spare.

David Warner joins elite T20 century club

Warner’s century was only his second in the BBL history and his first since 2011, underlining the rarity of the moment. The knock also took him to nine men’s T20 centuries overall, placing him alongside Virat Kohli and Rilee Rossouw on the all-time list.

130 not out. 65 balls.

Here’s the best of David Warner’s incredible #BBL15 hundred! pic.twitter.com/GperFoc4ye

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 3, 2026

Only Chris Gayle with 22 centuries and Babar Azam with 11 sit above Warner in men’s T20 cricket. Warner’s late assault was particularly savage, plundering 50 runs from his final 15 balls to drag Thunder to a formidable total.

Sydney Thunder post 205 but Hobart Hurricanes refuse to blink

Put in to bat first, Sydney Thunder finished on 4 for 205, with Warner dominating proceedings from start to finish. Nic Maddinson provided support with a brisk 30, but it was Warner’s power-hitting that ensured Thunder crossed the 200-run mark.

David Warner brought out the ‘6-7’ celebration after his trademark jump 😂 #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/e3TtlebNBf

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 3, 2026

At the halfway stage, the total appeared match-winning, especially given Thunder’s desperation for points after a difficult start to the season. However, Hobart Hurricanes had other ideas on a flat Sydney surface.

Tim Ward and Mitch Owen destroy the chase early

Hobart’s response was explosive. Openers Tim Ward and Mitch Owen launched a stunning counterattack, racing to 108 without loss in just 8.2 overs. Ward led the charge with a superb 90 off 49 balls, while Owen blazed 45 from only 18 deliveries.

The blistering stand effectively broke the back of the chase, forcing Thunder into defensive mode far earlier than expected and turning the contest into a shootout.

Sydney Thunder clawed back briefly through Daniel Sams, who claimed 3 for 36 to create a flicker of hope. However, that momentum was short-lived as Nikhil Chaudhary held his nerve.

Also READ: PS vs AS, BBL|15 Match Prediction – Who will win today’s match between Perth Scorchers and Adelaide Strikers?

Chaudhary finished unbeaten on 29 off 14 balls, guiding Hobart to 206 for 4 and sealing the highest successful run chase ever recorded at ENGIE Stadium. The victory also marked a record BBL chase at the venue.

The defending champions have just completed a record run chase at ENGIE Stadium 💜 #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/gkKm4d6R1a

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 3, 2026

The win lifted the defending champions into the top half of the BBL|15 standings with a 5-2 record and extended their dominance over Thunder to six consecutive victories. For Sydney Thunder, the loss was crushing. They slumped to 1-5 for the season and 0-3 at ENGIE Stadium, leaving their finals hopes hanging by a thread.

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

England found stability through Joe Root and Harry Brook after a shaky start on a weather-disrupted opening day of the fifth Ashes Test at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). The pair combined for an unbroken 154-run stand for the fourth wicket, guiding England to 211 for 3 before bad light and rain forced an early close on Day 1.

Persistent showers and fading visibility restricted play to just 45 overs, with the entire evening session washed out. Yet, England will take confidence from the composure shown by Root and Brook after the visitors slumped to 57 for 3 on a challenging surface.

England’s top order stumbles after winning the toss

Winning the toss under heavy cloud cover, England opted to bat first, hoping to put scoreboard pressure on Australia. However, the decision initially backfired as the top order struggled against disciplined seam bowling.

Opener Ben Duckett showed brief intent with a fluent 27 before falling to Mitchell Starc, edging behind while attempting to counterattack. Zak Crawley followed soon after, dismissed lbw for 16 to Michael Neser via an umpire’s call decision that narrowly went Australia’s way.

Michael Neser has got Zak Crawley for a third time this series!

Follow the #Ashes live: https://t.co/jfYWTZcpyR pic.twitter.com/hK0tsCH1Zg

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 4, 2026

England’s early wobble deepened when debutant Jacob Bethell managed just 10 before being trapped by Scott Boland. At 57 for 3, England were in danger of wasting a crucial opportunity to finish the series on a positive note.

Joe Root and Harry Brook rebuild England’s innings

From that precarious position, Root and Brook took charge with a measured yet assured approach. The duo added 57 runs before lunch, steering England to 114 for 3 at the interval and blunting Australia’s early momentum.

Root, batting with trademark patience, reached stumps unbeaten on 72 from 103 balls, anchoring the innings with sound judgment outside off stump. Brook complemented him perfectly, scoring an enterprising 78 not out off 92 deliveries, mixing caution with well-timed aggression.

In the afternoon session, the pair added a further 97 runs, gradually shifting the balance back in England’s favour. Their partnership stood out for its calmness under pressure, particularly as the pitch continued to offer seam movement.

Australia deploy rare all-pace attack at SCG

Australia adopted a striking tactical approach, fielding an all-pace attack without a specialist spinner – something not seen at the SCG for nearly 140 years. Starc, Neser, Boland and Cameron Green shared the workload on a surface that rewarded consistent lines under overcast skies.

Starc finished with figures of 1 for 53, while Neser and Boland claimed one wicket each. Green leaked runs and failed to pick up a wicket, conceding 57 runs in just 8 overs.

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

Rain and bad light bring early end to Day 1 at SCG

Play was halted shortly after tea as worsening light made conditions unsafe, with rain soon following to confirm an early end to proceedings. Only 45 overs were possible, leaving England at 211 for 3 and firmly back in the contest.

The interruption will frustrate Australia, who may have hoped for late breakthroughs, while England will be pleased to return on Day 2 with a settled platform and two set batters at the crease.

Early Stumps on Day 1 due to Bad light and rain 🏏

– England: 211/3 in 45 overs 🙌

Joe Root: 72*
Harry Brook: 78*#JoeRoot #HarryBrook #Ashes2025 #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/ATjIJPKo3Y

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 4, 2026

Trailing the series 3-1 after a dramatic two-day victory at Melbourne, England entered the Sydney Test aiming to end the Ashes on a winning note.

Also READ: Who is Usman Khawaja’s wife Rachel McLellan? Here’s why she is trending now

The iconic Sydney Cricket Ground witnessed scenes far removed from sporting rivalry on Day 1 of the final Ashes Test, as cricket paused to honour the victims and heroes of the December 14 Bondi terror attack. Before a single ball was bowled, nearly 40,000 fans, elite athletes, emergency responders, and survivors stood together in a deeply moving ceremony that turned the historic venue into a place of collective remembrance and unity. What unfolded was a powerful reminder that sport, at its best, can reflect the strength, empathy, and resilience of a nation in mourning.

A guard of honour for everyday heroes

In a moment that drew prolonged applause and tears from the stands, the Australian and England teams joined forces to form a guard of honour at the centre of the ground. Walking through the line were survivors and civilians whose bravery during the attack captured the hearts of the country.

The loudest ovation was reserved for Ahmed Al Ahmed, the Syrian-born father of two who played a crucial role in disarming one of the attackers. With his arm still in a sling, Al Ahmed stepped onto the field with his hand over his heart, visibly overwhelmed by the standing ovation.

Alongside him was 14-year-old Chaya Dadon, who arrived on crutches after being shot in the leg while shielding younger children from gunfire. Her courage has since made her a symbol of hope and selflessness across Australia.

As the stadium fell into silence, the SCG’s giant screens displayed the names and faces of the 15 innocent victims who lost their lives in the tragedy, under the message ‘Forever in our hearts.’ Among those remembered were community leader Edith Brutman, Rabbis Eli Schlanger and Yaakov Levitan who were central to the Hanukkah celebrations, and Boris and Sofia, the couple who reportedly died together after Boris attempted to stop an attacker.

Here’s the video:

A touching tribute for the victims of the Bondi massacre, first responders and community members ❤️ #Ashes pic.twitter.com/DXaW3xY4LP

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) January 3, 2026

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Steve Smith opens up on retirement talks ahead of SCG Test

Saluting the frontline responders

The ceremony also paid tribute to the paramedics, doctors from St Vincent’s Hospital and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital, and NSW Police officers who rushed toward danger on that tragic evening. One of the most poignant moments came when retiring Australian opener Usman Khawaja stepped forward to embrace Al Ahmed, a gesture that transcended national colours and competition.

Notably, for the first time at the SCG, specialist police officers carrying long-arm rifles were visible around the venue. NSW Police Commissioner Mal Lanyon stressed the measures were precautionary and aimed at reassurance, helping fans feel safe as they returned to public spaces.

Rain halts play after England steady the innings

On the field, the final Ashes Test finally got underway after the emotional pre-match tribute. England won the toss and elected to bat on Day 1 at the SCG. At Tea, England were well placed at 211/3 in their first innings, with Joe Root unbeaten on 72 and Harry Brook not out on 78 after a composed and authoritative partnership. However, play was delayed soon after the interval due to rain, bringing an early pause to proceedings on an already unforgettable day in Sydney.

Also READ: AUS vs ENG, Ashes 2025-26: Sydney Weather Forecast for the 5th Test

Bangladesh are set to formally approach the International Cricket Council (ICC) to request the relocation of their T20 World Cup 2026 matches from India to Sri Lanka, following the controversial release of pacer Mustafizur Rahman from the Kolkata Knight Riders squad. The development comes against the backdrop of worsening political sensitivities between India and Bangladesh, raising concerns within the Bangladesh cricket establishment over player safety and the overall environment for the national team.

BCB to write to ICC amid Mustafizur Rahman controversy

The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is expected to submit a detailed representation to the ICC, expressing apprehension about hosting their initial World Cup fixtures in India. Bangladesh are scheduled to play their first three matches of the tournament in Kolkata, a venue now at the center of the controversy.

Following an emergency meeting of BCB directors held via Zoom on Saturday, media committee chairman Amzad Hussain confirmed the board’s intent to escalate the matter. He stated that recent events had forced the board to reconsider whether the team would feel secure playing in Kolkata during a global event of such magnitude.

Bangladesh’s sports adviser Asif Nazrul added further weight to the issue by publicly questioning the safety of Bangladeshi players in India. His remarks came after the Board of Control for Cricket in India cited “recent developments” while instructing the Knight Riders to release Mustafizur ahead of IPL 2026.

Nazrul said he had directed the BCB to explain the entire situation to the ICC and seek a neutral alternative venue. He also suggested that if a contracted Bangladeshi player could not participate in India-based leagues, it would be difficult for the national side to feel fully assured about travelling there for a World Cup.

“I have asked the BCB to explain the entire matter to the ICC. The board should inform that where a Bangladeshi cricketer cannot play in India despite being contracted, the entire Bangladeshi cricket team cannot feel safe going to play in the World Cup. I have also instructed the Board to request that Bangladesh’s World Cup matches be held in Sri Lanka,” Nazrul wrote on his official Facebook page.

Also READ: BCCI asks Shah Rukh Khan’s KKR to part ways with Mustafizur Rahman ahead of IPL 2026

Call to move matches to Sri Lanka

In his statement, Nazrul specifically named Sri Lanka as the preferred alternative host for Bangladesh’s matches. He also revealed that he had requested the country’s information and broadcasting ministry to stop telecasting the Indian Premier League in Bangladesh, highlighting the seriousness of the government’s response.

The move underlines how the issue has extended beyond cricket administration into the political and diplomatic sphere, potentially placing the ICC in a challenging position as tournament organizers.

KKR confirm Mustafizur’s release

Following the BCCI’s directive, KKR officially confirmed Mustafizur’s release from their IPL 2026 squad. The franchise had acquired the left-arm pacer for a significant sum at the auction last month, but the signing reportedly drew criticism from certain political and spiritual groups in India in recent days.

Also READ: IPL 2026: 3 players KKR can sign to replace Mustafizur Rahman if he misses out

Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa has tipped two rising stars from the nation’s cricket scene as ones to watch in the coming year. Speaking ahead of major events like the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 and Women’s T20 World Cup 2026, he highlighted their potential to deliver match-winning efforts on the global stage.​

Robin Uthappa’s bold predictions for his two players to watch out for in 2026

During a recent appearance on JioHotstar’s ‘Follow the Blues’, Uthappa praised opener Pratika Rawal for her anticipated comeback after a World Cup setback, predicting she would shatter records and excel. He reserved special excitement for men’s top-order batter Tilak Varma, declaring in Hindi, “kuch gazab hi krega” – meaning he will achieve something extraordinary.​ Uthappa sees these picks as pivotal for India’s trophy hunts across formats.​

“Pratika Rawal. She faced an injury during the WC and will come back into the play with a good form. Looking forward to her coming in and smashing a few records, doing exceptionally well. In men’s cricket, Tilak Verma, my standout player, kuch gazab hi krega (will do something extraordinary),” Uthappa said on JioHotstar.

Also READ: IND vs NZ 2026: India’s 15 member squad for the ODI series against New Zealand – Predicted

The explosive run of the two young stars for India in 2025

The 23-year-old Hyderabad southpaw solidified his role in Suryakumar Yadav‘s T20I setup, amassing around 567 runs in 20 T20Is last year at a strike rate over 129, including four fifties and a high of 73. His standout moment came in the 2025 Asia Cup final against Pakistan, where an unbeaten 69 off 53 balls clinched a five-wicket victory and earned Player of the Match honours. Earlier back-to-back T20I centuries against South Africa in late 2024 had already marked him as a clutch performer, pushing his overall T20I tally to 1183 runs in 40 matches at an average near 49.​ Varma also featured in recent ODIs against South Africa in December 2025, signaling intent for white-ball expansion, with five ODIs under his belt.​

Delhi’s 25-year-old right-hander debuted in ODIs against West Indies in December 2024, quickly becoming a mainstay with 1110 runs in 24 matches at 50.45 average, featuring two tons and seven fifties at a strike rate above 82. Her 2025 highlight was the Women’s ODI World Cup, where she scored 308 runs in six innings at 51.33, including a match-winning 122 against New Zealand, before an ankle injury in the Bangladesh game ruled her out of knockouts.​ Rawal’s poise in partnerships, like her debut 110-run stand with Smriti Mandhana, and all-round contributions with wickets underscore her versatility. As 2026 unfolds, Uthappa’s endorsements position Varma and Rawal as key to India’s dominance, blending flair and reliability in high-stakes cricket.

Also READ: Reason why Shreyas Iyer will miss the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand

The first Melbourne Derby of BBL|15 takes center stage at the MCG this Sunday. This high-stakes clash features two teams on opposite ends of the spectrum: the Melbourne Stars, who are looking to bounce back from their first loss of the season, and the Melbourne Renegades, who are desperate to snap a three-match losing streak and keep their season alive.

Team analysis

Melbourne Stars

The Stars saw their four-match unbeaten streak snapped by the Brisbane Heat on Friday. Despite a massive total of 195, their death bowling faltered in the final overs. However, they remain at the top of the ladder and boast a highly settled lineup. Sam Harper and Marcus Stoinis have been in sublime form, while Glenn Maxwell remains the league’s most dangerous middle-order threat. Haris Rauf and Peter Siddle provide veteran stability, though they will be looking to tighten up after conceding heavy runs in their last outing.

Melbourne Renegades

The Renegades are struggling for consistency, particularly in their batting department. With only one win from four matches, they are currently languishing near the bottom of the table. Much depends on the explosive pair of Jake Fraser-McGurk and Josh Brown. If they can survive the powerplay, the Renegades can post a match-winning total. Young batter Harry Dixon returns to the squad, and spinner Callum Stow could make his debut to bolster a bowling unit led by Adam Zampa and Jason Behrendorff.

MS vs MR, BBL|15: Match details

• Date and Time: January 04; 12:35 pm IST / 7:05 am GMT / 6:05 pm Local
• Venue: Melbourne Cricket Ground, Melbourne

MS vs MR, Head-to-Head Record in BBL

Matches played: 28 | Melbourne Stars won: 18 | Melbourne Renegades won: 10 | No result/Tied: 0

Melbourne Cricket Ground Pitch Report

The MCG pitch for this derby is expected to be a significantly more “batter-friendly” surface than the green top seen during the recent two-day Boxing Day Test. Batters will still need to contend with the ground’s massive square boundaries, which make clearing the rope a challenge and prioritize hard running between the wickets. However, the true bounce should allow for high-scoring powerplays, while the large dimensions will provide spinners like Zampa plenty of protection to toss the ball up. Expect a balanced contest with the captain winning the toss likely opting to bowl first.

Also READ: Max Bryant’s explosive knock guides Brisbane Heat to a thrilling victory over Melbourne Stars in BBL|15

Squads:

Melbourne Stars: Thomas Fraser Rogers, Joe Clarke, Sam Harper (wk), Marcus Stoinis (c), Glenn Maxwell, Hilton Cartwright, Tom Curran, Liam Hatcher, Haris Rauf, Peter Siddle, Mitchell Swepson, Aryan Sharma, Jonathan Merlo, Campbell Kellaway

Melbourne Renegades: Josh Brown, Tim Seifert, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Jake Fraser-McGurk, Oliver Peake, Hassan Khan, Will Sutherland (c), Andrew Tye, Gurinder Sandhu, Jason Behrendorff, Sam Elliott, Adam Zampa, Caleb Jewell, Fergus O Neill, Matthew Spoors

MS vs MR, BBL|15: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Melbourne Stars wins the toss and bowls first
• Melbourne Renegades’ powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Melbourne Renegades’ total score: 150-160

Case 2:

• Melbourne Renegades wins the toss and bowls first
• Melbourne Stars’ powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
• Melbourne Stars’ total score: 160-170

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: Babar Azam equals Jos Buttler’s prestigious T20 record during the BBL|15