India all-rounder Washington Sundar has sparked controversy after a viral video showed him turning away from eager fans seeking selfies and autographs in a hotel hallway. The brief clip, which surfaced on social media platforms like X, captured the Gujarat Titans star appearing uncomfortable as supporters crowded him, leading to accusations of arrogance from some quarters. While the incident has divided opinions, it comes at a time when Sundar remains a key asset for India across formats.​

Washington Sundar trolled after turning down autograph and selfie plea from kid fan

The episode unfolded in a confined hotel lobby or hallway, where Sundar was navigating through a group of enthusiastic fans calling out for photos and signatures. Visibly hesitant and looking overwhelmed, the 26-year-old cricketer did not stop to engage, instead opting to abruptly turn back and retrace his path to evade the crowd. The short video quickly spread online, amassing thousands of views and igniting a firestorm of reactions.​

Critics were quick to label Sundar’s demeanor as too much attitude, questioning why a public figure like him seemed dismissive toward young admirers desperate for a moment with their idol. Comments flooded social media, with users lamenting that stars should prioritize fan interactions, especially from children, and branding the move as rude or entitled. However, defenders countered that athletes deserve personal space in private settings, arguing the clip was edited to portray him negatively and that constant demands can be exhausting.

Also READ: No Sanju Samson and Mohammed Shami in India’s ODI squad for New Zealand series as Aakash Chopra picks his 15-member team

Here’s how fans reacted:​

Even though failed as a batter & allrounder..
Disgusting 🤮 https://t.co/EWiqRc9751

— Dhananjaya Singh (@Dhananjaya1402) January 2, 2026

WTF??? What attitude?!! He’s just awkward. And why aren’t people taking the cue? If he’s not interested in getting clicked, just respect his wishes and stop invading his space… Bashing Washi for BS reasons!!! https://t.co/eXpoOseRry

— 🦢 (@Shakarshee) January 2, 2026

That y someone says money and fame can’t handle by everyone https://t.co/mM6bXDdoFA

— kingVIRATkohli (@SAMIRBISWA53788) January 2, 2026

Similar attitude with @akshar2026 when we tried to talk to him in ITC.. they are probably right. I don’t know. Felt like insult to us. https://t.co/5H1LBnYxMd

— Contractor Ganesh (@ganeshraja88) January 2, 2026

Jab us level tal pahunch jayega tab dekha jayega, abhi toh coach ke favour mein hain https://t.co/6IXZV44nqv

— Scooter Libby (@Libby9595S) January 2, 2026

11 days ago, I saw him travel in the same flight as mine and a old guy asked for a selfie in the transit and he literally told him “ don’t you have sense ?” I mean he didn’t invade his privacy nor didn’t gimmick any stunts. That was really harsh. https://t.co/JUVv3poArG

— Aarav Shain (@AaravShain) January 2, 2026

wtf is this https://t.co/hE9BkI2idL

— Yogi In Australia 🇮🇳🇦🇺🕉️ (@akshaypujari3) January 2, 2026

Who are those idiots trying for a selfie with sundar!! That in itself is an insult to cricket. https://t.co/Yo6XX1XsP0

— moodalapalya share auto (@deshmukhnaveen) January 2, 2026

the ending of this video lmao, no way out https://t.co/Bd9OYeZITc

— Aal (@Aaalway) January 2, 2026

Washington Sundar 🤩 pic.twitter.com/rXotcYtzOd

— Vrushank (@77vrushank) January 2, 2026

Imagine denying selfies when fans struggle to even recognize you without Google.
Bro acting like prime Kohli with net-bowler fame. 📵😭 https://t.co/6W0e2excAX

— Unagi (@Unagi_999) January 3, 2026

Washington Sundar’s impressive recent performances

Despite the online drama, Sundar has been in red-hot form, solidifying his reputation as a versatile all-rounder. In Tests, he boasts an average of 42.14 with a highest of 101*, including standout knocks like a century in the 2025 England series in Manchester and a rapid fifty in 39 balls during the final Test. His bowling shines too, with 36 wickets at 32.97 and economical spells like his career-best 7/59 against New Zealand in 2024.​

In T20Is, Sundar has 51 wickets at 22.76 across 58 matches, complemented by useful cameos like 49 off 23 balls in an ODI against Australia. For Gujarat Titans ahead of IPL 2026, expectations are high as coaches eye him for No. 4 batting, leveraging his improved white-ball aggression after a strong 2025 tour of England. Recent series against South Africa and Sri Lanka further highlighted his consistency, silencing doubters with match-winning contributions. As debates rage, Sundar’s on-field prowess underscores his value to Indian cricket.

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

The finale of the Ashes 2025-26 series moves to the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) for the traditional New Year’s Test, beginning January 4, 2026. Following England‘s spirited four-wicket victory at the MCG, their first Test win in Australia since 2011, the visitors arrive in Sydney with momentum. However, they must contend with a typical Sydney summer forecast that threatens to interrupt the early stages of the match before giving way to classic ‘Pink Test’ sunshine.

Ashes 2025-26: Both sides face further injury blows

Australia’s depth continues to be tested as they head to the SCG without captain Pat Cummins and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon, both of whom were ruled out for the remainder of the series following the Adelaide Test. Steve Smith retains the captaincy for the series finale, leading a squad that sees Todd Murphy and Jhye Richardson integrated into the setup. The biggest story for the hosts, however, is the emotional farewell of Usman Khawaja, who has confirmed he will retire from international cricket following this Test.

England’s injury crisis has deepened despite their Melbourne triumph. Seamer Gus Atkinson has been ruled out of the SCG Test after sustaining a hamstring injury during the Boxing Day clash. He joins Jofra Archer and Mark Wood on the sidelines, leaving Ben Stokes with a depleted pace battery. In response, England have named a 12-man squad featuring off-spinner Shoaib Bashir and seamer Matthew Potts, with Bashir potentially making his first appearance of the series on a surface traditionally friendly to slow bowlers.

Also READ: Usman Khawaja announces retirement from international cricket, SCG Test to be his final bow

Sydney Weather forecast for the New Year’s 5th Ashes 2025-26 Test

Day 1: Sunday, January 4 The opening day is expected to be a stop-start affair. A heavy thunderstorm and intermittent showers are forecast, with a 55% chance of rain throughout the day. Temperatures will reach a humid 27°C, and high humidity levels could assist swing bowlers during the windows of play. Both teams will need to be mentally sharp to handle the frequent interruptions.

Day 2: Monday, January 5 Conditions remain unsettled as the humid weather continues. While the risk of a total washout decreases, mostly cloudy skies and a 20% chance of showers will likely persist. The moisture in the air and a moderate southerly breeze will keep the seamers interested, making the morning session a critical survival period for the top-order batters.

Day 3: Tuesday, January 6 The clouds are expected to clear for the annual Pink Test celebrations even though the chances of rain are still there with 20%. Mostly sunny skies and a pleasant top of 26°C are forecast. As the sun beats down on the SCG square, the pitch should begin to dry out and harden, allowing stroke-makers to capitalize on the improving conditions. This is often the best day for batting in Sydney.

Day 4: Wednesday, January 7 Heat becomes a factor on the penultimate day as temperatures climb to 28°C under bright sunshine. With no rain in sight, the SCG surface is likely to start showing significant wear. This moving day will see spinners like take center stage as they look to exploit the rough created by the fast bowlers’ follow-throughs.

Day 5: Thursday, January 8 The Test is set for a scorching conclusion, with a forecast high of 31°C and clear skies. If the match enters the final day, it will be a grueling battle of endurance. The dry, baking conditions will favor the side with the disciplined spinners and the batters who can maintain focus in the sweltering Sydney heat.

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Shoaib Bashir returns as England unveil squad for the SCG Test

Pretoria Capitals and Durban’s Super Giants square off in a high‑stakes SA20 2025-26 clash at SuperSport Park, with both sides needing consistency after explosive but uneven starts to the season. Expect a hard-hitting contest between two power-packed batting units on a venue that generally rewards strokeplay and pace bowlers.​

Pretoria Capitals sit mid-table after one win in three, but their campaign was reignited by a crushing 85‑run win over MI Cape Town, where they piled up 220 and bowled the champions out cheaply. Durban’s Super Giants have six points from four games but arrive on the back of a heavy defeat to Joburg Super Kings and a winless run in their last three, making this a pressure fixture to reset momentum.​

Capitals’ batting template finally clicked at Newlands, with runs across the order and Sherfane Rutherford starring with both bat and ball, signalling a more rounded threat than in their early losses.​ Super Giants have already twice crossed 200 this season, yet their fragility has been exposed when early wickets fall, highlighted by being bowled out for 86 in their previous outing.​ DSG hold a narrow edge in the rivalry, leading 3–2 in completed games, with one no-result; recent meetings have typically produced big totals and sharp momentum swings.

PC vs DSG, SA20 2025-26: Match details

• Date and Time: January 3 (Saturday); 9:00 pm IST / 03:30 pm GMT / 5:30 pm Local
• Venue: SuperSport Park, Centurion

PC vs DSG, Head-to-Head Record in SA20 2025-26:

Matches played: 5 | Pretoria Capitals won: 3 | Durban’s Super Giants won: 2 | No result/Tied: 0

SuperSport Park Pitch Report

SuperSport Park has become one of the quicker-scoring SA20 venues, the average first‑innings score across recent T20s here hovers in the mid‑160s, with many games comfortably exceeding 180.​ Fast bowlers dominate wicket columns, taking roughly three‑quarters of the dismissals in the last batch of T20s at this ground, but true bounce also lets stroke‑makers hit through the line.​ While historically chasing has often been attractive at Centurion, recent SA20 data shows defending totals is very viable; with scattered evening thunderstorms forecast, captains are still likely to field first to keep DLS in play.

Squads:

Pretoria Capitals: Will Smeed, Bryce Parsons, Shai Hope (wk), Dewald Brevis, Connor Esterhuizen, Sherfane Rutherford, Wihan Lubbe, Keshav Maharaj (c), Codi Yusuf, Tymal Mills, Lungi Ngidi, Daniel Smith, Roston Chase, Lizaad Williams, Sibonelo Makhanya, Keith Dudgeon, Junaid Dawood, Gideon Peters, Meeka eel Prince

Durban’s Super Giants: Devon Conway, Kane Williamson, Jos Buttler, Aiden Markram (c), Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Evan Jones, David Wiese, Eathan Bosch, Simon Harmer, Kwena Maphaka, Noor Ahmad, Sunil Narine, Taijul Islam, Dayyaan Galiem, Daryn Dupavillon, Tony de Zorzi, Marques Ackerman, Gerald Coetzee, David Bedingham, Andile Simelane, Gysbert Wege

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

PC vs DSG, SA20 2025-26: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Pretoria Capitals wins the toss and bowls first
• Durban’s Super Giants’ powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• Durban’s Super Giants’ total score: 165-175

Case 2:

• Durban’s Super Giants wins the toss and bowls first
• Pretoria Capitals’ powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Pretoria Capitals’ total score: 150-160

Match result: Team bowling 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

Ahead of the fifth and final Test of the Ashes 2025–26 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, Australia’s stand-in captain Steve Smith has opened up on the growing speculation around his international future. Speaking on the eve of the Sydney Test, Smith shared his thoughts regarding the potential retirement, insisting he is focused solely on the present rather than setting timelines for the end of his storied career.

Steve Smith addresses retirement chatter

Smith, widely regarded as one of the finest Test batters of his generation, has been under the spotlight due to a perceived dip in output in recent seasons. While his numbers remain respectable, they have not matched the extraordinary heights he scaled during his peak years, prompting questions about how long he intends to continue.

However, Smith was quick to dismiss any suggestion that the Sydney Test could mark a farewell. He revealed that he prefers a flexible, short-term approach to his career rather than planning too far ahead. According to Smith, his enjoyment of the game and his ability to contribute meaningfully are the only factors that matter at this stage.

He explained that he is taking his journey ‘day by day, series by series,’ adding that there is no fixed end date in his mind. As long as he feels competitive and motivated, Smith believes there is no reason to step away.

“I don’t know. I don’t know what I’m doing at the end of this week. I’ve said it for a while. I’m taking it day by day, series by series. We’ll see where things land. I feel like I’m doing all right at the moment. I’m enjoying it. I’m contributing and having fun. There’s no real end date for me, I suppose. I’m still playing. I’m enjoying it,” Smith told reporters.

Numbers still tell a strong story

Although critics have pointed to a decline, Smith’s record over the past few years suggests he remains a reliable performer. After averaging over 70 across multiple calendar years during his prime, he has continued to average above 50 in several recent seasons. For most batters, those figures would represent career-best numbers, highlighting the extraordinary standards Smith set for himself earlier on.

This contrast between past brilliance and present consistency has arguably fueled the retirement narrative. Yet, Smith’s comments suggest he views his current phase as an evolution rather than a downturn, adapting his game and mindset to remain effective at the highest level.

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Shoaib Bashir returns as England unveil squad for the SCG Test

Smith highlights Australia’s collective strength and his evolving leadership role

Beyond personal form, Smith also spoke about Australia’s broader success in Test cricket. He praised the collective nature of the team’s achievements, particularly their ability to share responsibility rather than rely on individual brilliance.

Reflecting on the past few years, Smith highlighted Australia’s consistency, including multiple appearances in the World Test Championship final. He noted that different players have stepped up at crucial moments, which has been key to sustaining success in a competitive era of Test cricket.

Now one of the most experienced figures in the dressing room, Smith acknowledged that his role has evolved. Alongside contributing with the bat, he sees mentoring younger players and passing on Test-match knowledge as a key responsibility.

“I think we’ve got a really good team. I think the team we’ve had over the last three or four years, obviously making two World Test Championship finals, different people have stood up at different times. It’s never been one or two people just getting the job done. It’s been shared across and guys have done great jobs throughout and I think that’s what’s made us a really good team. So it’s been good to be a part of and, yeah, as an older player now, hopefully I can help some of the players coming through and help teach them the game of test cricket. I guess that’s my role now,” added Smith.

Also READ: Usman Khawaja announces retirement from international cricket, SCG Test to be his final bow

The Ashes 2025-26 series has ignited fierce rivalry between Australia and England across iconic venues like Perth’s Optus Stadium, Brisbane’s Gabba, and Adelaide Oval, captivating millions worldwide. Beyond the boundary, the wives and girlfriends (WAGS) of Australia’s top cricketers have stolen the spotlight, cheering passionately from the stands, sharing stylish moments on social media, and embodying unwavering support amid high-stakes Tests. These women, often spotted in elegant outfits blending comfort with cricket glamour, add a human touch to the intense battle for the urn, turning player milestones into family celebrations.​

Wives and girlfriends of Australia cricketers at the Ashes 2025-26

Pat Cummins’ wife – Becky Cummins

Pat Cummins, Australia’s captain leading the charge in the Ashes, draws strength from his wife Becky Cummins (née Boston), a devoted mother and pillar of stability. Married in a intimate Byron Bay ceremony in 2022 after dating since 2013, Becky has been by his side through triumphs like the 2023 ODI World Cup, often posting family glimpses with their children Albie (born 2021) and Edi (born February 2025). Fans spotted her in the Perth crowd during the first Test, her poised presence a calming force as Cummins navigated leadership pressures.​

Travis Head’s wife – Jessica Davies

Travis Head, the explosive batter who topped Australia’s run charts with 437 in the series so far, celebrates his dynamic life with wife Jessica Davies, a model-turned-entrepreneur and mental health advocate. The couple, childhood friends turned soulmates, wed in a picturesque Adelaide ceremony in April 2023, welcoming daughter Milla Paige in 2022 and a second child—a son—in late 2024. Jessica’s vibrant Instagram captures her at the Gabba for the pink-ball Test, radiating pride in a chic sundress while balancing motherhood and her restaurant ventures in Sydney and Canberra.​

Steve Smith’s wife – Dani Willis

Steve Smith, vice-captain and middle-order maestro, shares his world with wife Dani Willis, a lawyer with a passion for interior design and Pilates. They met during the 2011-12 Big Bash League at a Sydney bar, got engaged atop New York’s Rockefeller Center in 2017, and married at Bandooley Estate in 2018. Dani, often seen courtside or pitchside in tailored outfits, cheered Smith during the MCG Boxing Day Test, her low-key elegance complementing his comeback story post-injury.​

Usman Khawaja’s wife – Rachel Khawaja

Usman Khawaja, the seasoned opener, is supported by wife Rachel Khawaja (née McLellan), a marketing graduate, business development manager, and 7Cricket reporter who converted to Islam before their 2018 nikah. With dual Australian-New Zealand citizenship, Rachel met Usman at university in 2015; they now raise two daughters in a serene all-white Sydney home. Her presence at Adelaide Oval, blending professional poise with family devotion, highlights her role in Usman’s resilience during probing spells from England’s bowlers.​

Also READ: Photo Gallery: WAGS of top England cricketers at the Ashes 2025-26

Marnus Labuschagne’s wife – Rebekah Labuschagne

Marnus Labuschagne, Australia’s No.3 mainstay with 174 runs, leans on wife Rebekah Labuschagne (née Gillam), whom he met through their shared Baptist church community in Brisbane’s Redlands. Married since May 2017 at Sirromet Wines, the couple welcomed a daughter in September 2022 and announced their second child in January 2025, just before the Sydney finale. Rebekah’s heartfelt social media posts from the SCG stands capture her quiet strength, fueling Labuschagne’s focus amid fluctuating form.​

Cameron Green’s girlfriend – Emily Redwood

Cameron Green, the rising all-rounder, recently proposed to long-time girlfriend Emily Redwood in February 2025 at Yallingup beach, Western Australia, after five years together. Emily, his fitness inspiration during injury recoveries, has been pivotal in his growth; their engagement photos went viral, showing sunset hugs and diamond-ring joy. She turned heads at Optus Stadium in casual chic athleisure, her youthful energy mirroring Green’s aggressive cameos.

​ Josh Hazlewood’s wife – Cherina Murphy Christian

Josh Hazlewood, the towering pacer, married high school sweetheart Cherina Murphy Christian in August 2022 in Hunter Valley, with their son Zac born in November 2024. A professional makeup artist from Tamworth’s Oxley High, Cherina motivates Hazlewood’s precision bowling, often attending award nights and IPL matches incognito. During the Brisbane Test, her subtle celebrations from the members’ enclosure underscored their grounded romance.​

Nathan Lyon’s wife – Emma McCarthy

Nathan Lyon, the veteran off-spinner, found enduring love with wife Emma McCarthy, a real estate agent; they wed in July 2022 after dating since 2017, post his previous marriage. Emma helped him rebound from the 2019 Ashes heartbreak, sharing a $3.8 million Sydney townhouse since 2020. Her elegant figure in the Adelaide crowd during Lyon’s wily spells added glamour, her supportive gaze a constant amid turning pitches.​

Alex Carey’s wife – Eloise Carey

Alex Carey, wicketkeeper with 291 runs including an emotional Adelaide century dedicated to his late father, shares tears and triumphs with wife Eloise Carey, a therapist and former model from Australia’s Next Top Model Season 5. Married since September 2016 after meeting in the early 2010s, they have two children, Louis and Clementine; Eloise’s sobbing joy in the stands during his ton became an iconic Ashes image.​

Josh Inglis’ wife – Megan Kincart

Josh Inglis, the backup keeper-batter who recently wed long-term partner Megan Kincart in late 2025 after their April 2024 engagement, balances family with flair. Parents to son Oscar (born June 2023), Megan’s glamorous feed showcases match-day outfits from Perth to Melbourne. Her presence at the MCG, cradling their toddler, symbolizes the new generation of WAGS blending parenthood with pitchside passion.

Also READ: R Ashwin, Darren Lehmann and others send best wishes as Damien Martyn fights with meningitis

On January 2, 2026, Cricket South Africa (CSA) officially announced their 15-member squad for the T20 World Cup 2026, to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Under the continued leadership of Aiden Markram, the Proteas have opted for a ‘shock-and-awe’ youth transition, retaining only seven players from the 2024 final-run team.

South Africa’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad under Aiden Markram

The squad is headlined by the sensational return of Quinton de Kock, who reversed his international retirement to provide veteran stability at the top. He is joined by ‘Baby AB’ Dewald Brevis and the teenage pace prodigy Kwena Maphaka, signaling a clear shift toward South Africa’s next generation of superstars.

Selection convener Patrick Moroney described the roster as a calculated risk, prioritizing raw power and subcontinental adaptability. The inclusion of Jason Smith and all-rounder George Linde highlights a tactical move to bolster the lower-middle order, while the pace attack remains fearsome with the return of Kagiso Rabada from injury. However, the path to the 2026 trophy comes at the cost of several household names whose absence marks a definitive changing of the guard in South African cricket.

Also READ: South Africa announces a bold squad for T20 World Cup 2026, drops Tristan Stubbs and recalls Kagiso Rabada

8 South African players who featured in T20 World Cup 2024 but won’t play in 2026 edition

The 2026 squad sees the absence of several key figures from the side that narrowly lost the 2024 final. Here is a breakdown of the players who helped South Africa reach their first-ever final but are missing from this title charge:

1. Heinrich Klaasen (Retired): In a massive blow to the Proteas’ middle order, the world’s most feared T20 finisher announced his retirement from international cricket in June 2025. Klaasen, who nearly won the 2024 final with a blistering fifty, decided to focus exclusively on global franchise leagues, leaving a massive power vacuum at No. 5.

2. Reeza Hendricks (Omitted): Despite being a mainstay at the top of the order for years, the veteran opener was overlooked in favor of more aggressive options like Tony de Zorzi and Dewald Brevis. At 36, the selectors felt Hendricks’ strike-rate-oriented approach no longer fit the intent-first philosophy required for Indian pitches.

3. Tristan Stubbs (Omitted/Tactical Shift): In what is arguably the biggest shock of the announcement, Tristan Stubbs was left out of the 15-member squad. Following a lean patch in the green and gold throughout 2025, the selectors opted for Jason Smith’s recent explosive domestic form, citing a need for clutch finishing under pressure.

4. Ryan Rickelton (Omitted): The explosive wicketkeeper-batter missed out as the selectors backed the returning Quinton de Kock as the sole specialist keeper. Despite his heavy scoring in the SA20, the management felt Rickelton’s inclusion would create an imbalance in a squad already packed with top-order hitters.

5. Tabraiz Shamsi (Omitted/Legal Dispute): The former World No. 1 T20 bowler has been moved past following a high-profile legal battle with CSA over NOCs for foreign leagues. With Shamsi no longer holding a domestic contract and Varun Chakravarthy-style mystery being the trend, South Africa has fully committed to Keshav Maharaj and George Linde.

6. Gerald Coetzee (Omitted): The high-pace Karoo Express’ was a surprise omission. The selectors preferred the left-arm variety of Kwena Maphaka and the death-bowling specialist skills of Corbin Bosch. Coetzee’s recent struggles with consistency in the subcontinental conditions played a significant role in his exclusion.

7. Ottneil Baartman (Omitted): A breakout star of the 2024 campaign, Baartman lost his spot to a rejuvenated Anrich Nortje and the multi-dimensional Lungi Ngidi. The selectors noted that while Baartman remains a quality operator, the 2026 conditions demanded bowlers with either express pace or significant lower-order batting ability.

8. Bjorn Fortuin (Omitted): Fortuin, who provided valuable spin cover in 2024, was squeezed out by the return of George Linde. The management favored Linde’s superior batting pedigree and his ability to act as a genuine all-rounder in the spin-friendly conditions of India and Sri Lanka.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin breaks down why T20 World Cup 2026 may fail to excite fans

In a high-voltage Elite Group B clash of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, Baroda faced off against Vidarbha on January 3. Vidarbha captain Harsh Dubey won the toss and elected to bowl first, setting the stage for a batting showdown under clear skies. The match quickly turned into a spectacle as Baroda’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya delivered a match-defining performance, propelling his team to a formidable total.​

Hardik Pandya’s explosive hundred stuns Vidarbha

Pandya arrived at the crease with Baroda reeling at 71-5 after 19.1 overs, following early blows from Vidarbha pacers Yash Thakur and Nachiket Bhute. Undeterred, the Indian all-rounder steadied the ship alongside brother Krunal Pandya (23 off 50), forging a crucial 65-run stand for the sixth wicket. Pandya accelerated ruthlessly, reaching his fifty before unleashing pure carnage in the 39th over against left-arm spinner Parth Rekhade.​

Needing 34 to reach three figures from 66 off 62 balls, Pandya smashed five consecutive sixes—over long-on, covers, mid-wicket, and beyond—before sealing the over with a boundary through point for 34 runs total. The sequence: 6, 6, 6, 6, 6, 4. Fans online went berserk, flooding social media with clips of the assault, hailing it as one of domestic cricket’s most memorable overs. This maiden List A ton came off just 68 balls.​

Pandya fell soon after for 133 off 92 balls (8 fours, 11 sixes, SR 144.57), caught by Atharva Taide off Thakur at 258-8 in the 45.2 over. Vishnu Solanki (26 off 17) and late flourishes from Mahesh Pithiya (18* off 14) and Karan Umatt (13* off 11) pushed Baroda to 293-9 in 50 overs (RR 5.86). Thakur starred with 4-64, while Rekhade (2-80) endured the punishment.

Also READ: Jasprit Bumrah, Hardik Pandya to get break as India plan rotation for New Zealand ODIs

Here’s how fans reacted:

🚨BIG SHOW FOR HARDIK PANDYA🚨

Hardik Pandya has scored a century in 68 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. At one point, Pandya was scoring 68 runs in 62 balls. pic.twitter.com/wuVSYj6Rer

— 𝐎𝐧𝐥𝐲 𝐂𝐫𝐢𝐜𝐤𝐞𝐭 (@gurlabhsingh610) January 3, 2026

HARDIK PANDYA IN ABSOLUTE BEAST MODE! 🔥💥
A brutal 68-ball hundred in the Vijay Hazare Trophy vs Vidarbha 💪🏏
Power. Confidence. Statement knock.#HardikPandya #VijayHazareTrophy pic.twitter.com/8GGfMwGGJ7

— Ganesh 🇮🇳 (@GaneshVerse) January 3, 2026

No one crossed even 30. Then come Hardik Pandya. Scored 117*(81) for Baroda.

Clutch GOAT Hardik Pandya. 🗿 pic.twitter.com/ixhuFiJaCI

— Selfless⁴⁵ (@SelflessCricket) January 3, 2026

– He is playing first match in this VHT.
– He came to bat when Baroda 71/5.
– No batter crossed 30 runs mark.
– He smashed Hundred.
– He scored 133(93).
– He hits 11 Sixes & 8 fours.

TAKE A BOW, HARDIK PANDYA – THE MVP OF INDIA. 🫡🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/LZUUzFMr5L

— Tanuj (@ImTanujSingh) January 3, 2026

If clutch has human form , its is Hardik Pandya pic.twitter.com/KZdWNN9qxI

— ROHIT¹⁸🇮🇳 (@bvrrrohit) January 3, 2026

HARDIK PANDYA’S INNINGS TODAY IN VHT:

-First 62 balls – 66 runs.
-Last 29 balls – 67 runs (231.03 SR).#hardikpandya #VijayHazareTrophy pic.twitter.com/M3vKNJCwxg

— urstruly (@VikashChou70911) January 3, 2026

Take a Bow for Hardik Pandya

-He smashed 133 runs from 92 balls within 11 sixes and 8 fours for Baroda in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 🏆.

What a clutch player Hardik Pandya is! pic.twitter.com/GlEro4frqT

— Ashu (@AshuKharwa66211) January 3, 2026

HARDIK PANDYA’S INNINGS TODAY IN VHT:

First 62 balls – 66 runs.
Last 29 balls – 67 runs (231.03 SR).

– THE DESTRUCTION OF HARDIK PANDYA. 🥶🔥 pic.twitter.com/l8pOkprql3

— Cricnow (@CricketNew73688) January 3, 2026

🚨 HARDIK PANDYA 133 RUNS FROM JUST 92 BALLS 🚨

– Baroda: 71/5
– No batter has scored more than 30 runs
– One man show by Hardik

GREAT NEWS FOR INDIA 🇮🇳#HardikPandeya #VijayHazareTrophy2025 pic.twitter.com/oeVO8WsZ1z

— Niraj Kumar (@Nirajku11362609) January 3, 2026

Hardik Pandya is on fire 🔥

133 runs off just 92 balls with Baroda at 71/5, and no one else has even scored 30! Talk about carrying the team on his shoulders. pic.twitter.com/dkxdCuecMc

— MrFantus (@Mrfantus09) January 3, 2026

Baroda puts up a fighting total against Vidarbha in VHT 2025-26

Baroda’s innings began shakily, Amit Pasi fell for a duck, while Nitya Pandya reached 15 before Bhute struck early. The collapse deepened as Priyanshu Moliya (16), Atit Sheth (21), Jitesh Sharma (9) and Krunal departed, leaving them struggling at 71-5. The Powerplay produced just 43 runs, but Pandya’s counterattack flipped momentum. Vital partnerships of 45 with Solanki and 77 with Raj Limbani (10) hauled Baroda to 293-9, despite nine wickets falling.

Vidarbha now faces a steep chase on a flat Rajkot track offering pace and bounce. Pandya’s blitz not only boosted Baroda’s semifinal hopes in the domestic 50-over showpiece but also signaled his peaking form ahead of India’s white-ball commitments, including the 2026 T20 World Cup. Supporters chanted his name long after stumps, cementing the knock as a highlight of VHT 2025-26.​

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The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has directed Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release Bangladesh left-arm pacer Mustafizur Rahman from their squad for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The decision was communicated to the franchise on Saturday and is understood to be linked to recent developments in Bangladesh that have raised wider sensitivities, prompting the board to intervene ahead of the upcoming season.

BCCI instructs KKR to release Mustafizur Rahman

BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed that the governing body has asked KKR to move on from the Bangladesh international and has also assured the franchise that it will be permitted to sign a replacement. The board’s stance ensures that KKR will not be left short-handed as they prepare their squad for IPL 2026, even though the release was not driven by cricketing reasons.

According to Saikia, the instruction was issued after reviewing the prevailing situation, with the BCCI keen to act decisively to avoid any further complications. While the board has not set a deadline publicly, KKR are expected to complete the formalities soon and initiate the process of identifying an alternative overseas player.

“Due to the recent developments which is going on all across, BCCI has instructed the franchisee KKR to release one of their player Mustafizur Rahman of Bangladesh from their squad and BCCI has also said that if they ask for any replacement, BCCI is going to allow that replacement,” said Saikia as quoted by ANI.

High-profile auction buy sparks debate

Mustafizur had been one of KKR’s headline acquisitions at the IPL mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi, where the franchise secured him for INR 9.20 crore after a competitive bidding tussle with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). The pacer’s international experience and his reputation for deceptive cutters made him an attractive option for the defending champions, particularly for matches on slower surfaces.

However, the signing quickly became a talking point beyond cricket. Over the past few days, KKR and their ownership group, including co-owner Shah Rukh Khan, faced criticism from sections of fans on social media. The backlash centred on the timing of the move, given the strained atmosphere surrounding India–Bangladesh relations, eventually drawing the attention of the BCCI.

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No clarity yet on India’s Bangladesh tour

With Mustafizur set to exit, KKR’s think tank will now reassess its overseas combination. The franchise is likely to look for a fast bowler who can offer similar skills—variation at the death and experience in pressure situations—while also fitting seamlessly into the team’s broader plans for the season.

The BCCI’s assurance on allowing a replacement provides KKR flexibility, whether they choose to dip into the unsold pool or explore other available options. From the league’s perspective, the move reinforces the board’s intent to keep the IPL insulated from off-field turbulence as much as possible.

Interestingly, the BCCI has remained silent on India’s scheduled white-ball tour of Bangladesh later in the year. The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) recently announced that India are slated to play three ODIs and three T20Is in September 2026, with the squad expected to arrive in Dhaka on August 28. The series had earlier been postponed due to unrest in the country.

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Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has sparked a fresh debate around the future of ICC tournaments by delivering a blunt assessment of the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Ashwin believes that the sheer frequency of ICC events, combined with one-sided fixtures involving vastly unequal teams, could significantly reduce fan interest in the marquee tournament.

Ravichandran Ashwin on why fans won’t watch T20 World Cup 2026

Ashwin did not mince his words while discussing the structure and appeal of modern ICC competitions. The former off-spinner argued that early-round matches featuring top-ranked nations against relatively inexperienced sides fail to capture the imagination of viewers.

According to Ashwin, contests such as India facing associate teams in the opening stages do little to build excitement. He remarked that such fixtures risk driving fans away rather than drawing them in, as the competitive balance is often missing. In his view, these mismatches undermine the very essence of a World Cup, which is meant to showcase high-intensity cricket at the highest level.

“No one is going to watch the ICC T20 World Cup this time. India vs USA, India vs. Namibia—these are games that will literally pull you away from the World Cup,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel.

Loss of anticipation around global events

Ashwin also highlighted how the traditional charm of ICC tournaments has eroded over time. He recalled an era when World Cups were staged once every four years, allowing anticipation and narrative to build naturally. Back then, early-round clashes between heavyweight teams like India, England, Sri Lanka, or Australia were major attractions in themselves.

Now, however, Ashwin feels that the overexposure of global tournaments has dulled that excitement. With fans seeing World Cups and ICC events almost every year, the sense of occasion has diminished. The former India star suggested that scarcity once made these tournaments special, a factor that is largely missing in the current calendar.

“World Cups used to happen once every four years. Because of that, the interest is used to build. India used to play England or Sri Lanka in the first round, and that was a lot more fun,” added Ashwin.

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Overcrowded ICC Schedule Under Scrutiny

Since 2010, ICC tournaments have been staged with remarkable regularity, with hardly a year passing without a major global event. The T20 World Cup scheduled for 2020 was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic and eventually held in 2021, followed by another edition in 2022. The ODI World Cup took place in 2023, the T20 World Cup followed in 2024, the Champions Trophy took place in 2025, and now another T20 World Cup arrives in 2026.

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As Australia prepare for the final chapter of the Ashes 2025–26 series, emotions are running high in the home camp with Usman Khawaja set to play his final international match. Ahead of the fifth Test at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground, Australian captain Pat Cummins shared a heartfelt message for his longtime teammate, making a special request that perfectly captured the sentiment surrounding Khawaja’s swansong.

Pat Cummins’ message for a departing Usman Khawaja

Pat Cummins, who leads Australia in both Tests and ODIs, took to social media to congratulate Khawaja on a distinguished international career. Along with his message, Cummins shared a photograph featuring the pair and expressed a simple yet powerful wish — for Khawaja to sign off with one more century at his home venue.

“Congratulations on an incredible career, mate. One more home century to go,” Cummins wrote, echoing the hopes of fans and teammates alike as Australia brace for an emotional farewell.

A full-circle moment at the SCG

The Sydney Test carries deep significance for Khawaja. It was at the same ground back in 2011 that he made his Test debut against England during the Ashes series, stepping in after Ricky Ponting was ruled out through injury. Nearly 15 years later, Khawaja will walk out at the SCG once more, this time knowing it will be his final appearance in international cricket.

Statistically, Sydney has been Khawaja’s fortress. He has amassed 875 runs from nine Tests at the venue, averaging an outstanding 87.50, with four centuries and a half-century to his name. Few Australian batters have enjoyed such dominance at the historic ground, making Cummins’ request far from unrealistic.

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The comeback that defined Usman’s legacy

One of the defining moments of Khawaja’s career also came in Sydney. During the Ashes 2021–22 series, he returned to the Test side after more than two years away and announced himself in emphatic fashion by scoring twin centuries at the SCG. That performance reignited his international career and laid the foundation for a prolific two-year run at the top level.

Khawaja carried that form into overseas conditions, playing a crucial role in Australia’s memorable 2–2 Ashes draw in England in 2023. He finished that series as the leading run-scorer with 496 runs, underlining his importance at the top of the order.

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Shoaib Bashir returns as England unveil squad for the SCG Test