As the Indian cricket team pivots toward a busy 2026 schedule, former opener and commentator Aakash Chopra has officially weighed in with his preferred 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match ODI series against New Zealand. The series, which kicks off on January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, serves as a crucial building block for the ODI setup following a highly competitive 2025. Chopra’s selection focuses on a rigid blend of returning stalwarts and in-form youngsters, though his categorical exclusion of Sanju Samson and Mohammed Shami could have been point of discussion.

Aakash Chopra picks Indian squad for New Zealand ODI series

Aakash Chopra on the return of captain Shubman Gill and the top order

In a video shared on his YouTube channel, Chopra outlined a squad that prioritizes continuity and established roles over experimental changes. He was definitive about the return of Shubman Gill to the captaincy and the structure of the top three, which leaves no room for recent century-maker Yashasvi Jaiswal in the starting XI.

“Gill is fit and available, and he will be back as a captain. There will be no questions there. Rohit Sharma will be seen opening with him, which means Yashasvi Jaiswal scored a century, but he will have to wait. At No. 3, Player of the Series Virat Kohli, who is looking like a man on a mission.” Chopra said.

Middle order solutions and the KL Rahul factor

Chopra also addressed the middle-order gap left by Shreyas Iyer, who is expected to miss the series. He elaborated on the likely replacements, emphasizing the need for consistency and rewarding those who have been part of the system.

“The update on Shreyas Iyer is that he won’t be available for this series. So don’t be surprised if his name is not there, and if his name is not there, Ruturaj continues at No. 4. At No. 5, I have got KL Rahul as a wicketkeeper, as a batter, and maybe as a vice-captain in the side.” the former Indian cricketer added.

Washington Sundar’s role and selection logic

A significant portion of Chopra’s analysis focused on maintaining depth in both the bowling and batting departments. He emphasized that despite recent rotations, players like Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma provide the necessary balance to the squad’s structure.

“After that, there is a place for Washington Sundar in my team. Although Washi didn’t play the last match and Tilak Varma played in his place, I will keep both Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma because continuity is important.” the ex-Indian opener stated.

The all-rounder debate and Mohammed Siraj’s recall

Chopra’s considerations for the squad centered on a shift in the spin hierarchy and a demand for the return of seasoned pace. He noted that recent performances have placed Axar Patel ahead of veteran Ravindra Jadeja in the race for long-term ODI spots.

“After that, there is a call that who should be taken between Axar and Jaddu… Jaddu’s performance was slightly fifty-fifty in the last series. So I think Axar Patel is ahead of him in the race from a long-term perspective. One between the two, not both of them. After that, I am saying bring Siraj back. It’s enough now.” the cricketer-turned commentator explained.

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

Harshit Rana’s rise and the seam department

Chopra highlighted the emergence of Harshit Rana as a primary pace option, noting his match-winning contributions in recent tours. He believes Rana has earned his spot through consistent performances, particularly in high-pressure situations against South Africa.

“After that, I have kept Harshit Rana. He won you a game. He did well in Sydney and his performance against South Africa was also good. After that, I am saying bring Siraj back… So Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj and Arshdeep Singh. This is the story close to my XI.” the New Delhi born cricketer highlighted.

Spin depth: The Kuldeep Yadav contingency

When discussing the bowling variety, Chopra included Kuldeep Yadav as the X-factor who can adjust to the conditions of the pitch. He noted that Kuldeep remains the primary option if the surface offers any assistance to spin or if dew is not an expected factor.

“Kuldeep Yadav can come in that if there is no dew. You can drop a fast bowler and play Kuldeep Yadav. So at No. 12, I have got Kuldeep Yadav. After that, I will keep Prasidh Krishna in the team. I need an extra fast bowler.” Chopra discussed.

The Rishabh Pant inclusion and bench strength

Finally, Chopra addressed the backup wicketkeeping slot, defending his choice of Rishabh Pant over other contenders. He argued that Pant’s pedigree justifies his spot, even amidst a “ruckus” regarding other potential candidates like Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel.

“At No. 14, I will keep Rishabh Pant, although there was a ruckus as to why Rishabh Pant needs to be kept, that Ishan Kishan or Dhruv Jurel can be kept. You can keep anyone, but also tell what Rishabh Pant’s mistake is. I am not picking Varun Chakaravarthy. I am getting Yashasvi Jaiswal, just in case you need him.” Chopra concluded.

Aakash Chopra’s Indian squad for NZ ODI series : Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul, Axar Patel/Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar, Tilak Varma, Harshit Rana, Mohammed Siraj, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal.

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

As the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season approaches, Rajasthan Royals (RR) find themselves in a unique position following one of the most significant trade windows in the league’s history. After moving their long-time captain Sanju Samson to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a high-profile deal, the Royals have overhauled their roster, bringing in veteran experience and world-class all-round talent.

Former India batter Robin Uthappa has highlighted that while the squad’s depth is now undeniable, the ultimate success of the Jaipur-based franchise will hinge on how they navigate their current leadership vacuum. With the mini-auction concluded and the team dynamic shifted, RR are the only side entering the new year without a confirmed captain, making their decision the most anticipated announcement of the preseason.

Robin Uthappa on Rajasthan Royals’ new-look bowling arsenal

Speaking on JioStar, Uthappa praised the tactical flexibility Rajasthan has gained through recent acquisitions, specifically pointing to their newfound depth in the bowling department. The addition of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran via trade, alongside the auction purchase of leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi for ₹7.20 crore, has transformed RR into a defensive powerhouse.

“The advantage Rajasthan Royals have is the fact that they have 10 fast bowlers, offering a lot of options. If they bowl in the right areas at SMS Stadium, Jaipur, they can be very successful. With spinners like Bishnoi and Jadeja, support from Shimron Hetmyer and Donovan Ferreira, and depth in the batting order with Dhruv Jurel and Riyan Parag, they now have a well-rounded team.” Uthappa said.

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

IPL 2026: Uthappa picks two contenders for Rajasthan Royals’ captaincy

The most critical talking point for the Royals remains the vacancy at the top. Uthappa believes the choice effectively comes down to a battle between veteran experience and homegrown potential. While many fans have called for Yashasvi Jaiswal to be handed the reins, Uthappa suggests the young opener might need to wait a bit longer, placing Ravindra Jadeja and Riyan Parag as the primary frontrunners.

Jadeja returns to the Royals 17 years after his 2008 debut under Shane Warne, and his acceptance of a salary cut (from ₹18 crore to ₹14.20 crore) to facilitate the trade has led to heavy speculation that the captaincy was part of the negotiation. On the other hand, Parag has a strong internal claim, having captained the side in eight matches during the 2025 season while Samson was sidelined with injury.

“The only question is leadership. My feeling is the captaincy will likely be between Riyan Parag and Ravindra Jadeja, while Jaiswal might need to wait a bit longer” Uthappa concluded.

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

India‘s rising bowling sensation, Vaishnavi Sharma, recently sat down for an insightful interview on the Eye India channel on December 7, 2025. During the conversation, she shared the personal inspirations and sporting icons that have shaped her rapid ascent into the national side.

Vaishnavi Sharma shares her favourite cricketers: Top 3 male and female choices revealed

In a candid moment during her appearance on the Eye India channel, Vaishnavi was asked to name the three male and three female cricketers who inspire her the most. Without hesitation, she displayed her deep respect for the legends of the game, stating, “Among male cricketers, Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma are my favorites.” Her admiration for the modern greats was balanced with a nod to the history of the sport, as she added, “Sachin sir is also a favorite, as he is the God of Cricket, of course.”

When the conversation shifted to the women’s game, the young spinner spoke with visible affection for her senior teammates and mentors. She highlighted the impact of India’s core leadership, naming Smriti Mandhana (Smriti didi), Sneh Rana (Rana didi) and captain Harmanpreet Kaur (Harman didi). By referring to them as ‘didi’ (elder sister), Vaishnavi showcased the close-knit bond and the culture of mentorship within the current Indian dressing room.

Also READ: BCCI announces landmark match fee hike for India’s domestic Women cricketers

Vaishnavi’s impact for India on the global stage

Vaishnavi’s journey into the senior Indian team has been nothing short of a fairy tale, driven by her extraordinary performance at the ICC U-19 Women’s T20 World Cup 2025. During that tournament, she emerged as the leading wicket-taker, claiming 17 wickets at an incredible average of just 4.35. Her crowning moment came against Malaysia, where she etched her name in history by taking a hat-trick and finishing with figures of 5/5. This domestic and junior dominance paved the way for her senior debut in the T20I series against Sri Lanka in December 2025.

Since donning the Blue jersey, Vaishnavi has proven that she belongs at the highest level, consistently providing breakthroughs with her slow left-arm orthodox spin. In her debut series, she maintained a miserly economy rate, often under 5.00, and delivered a match-winning spell of 2/24 in Thiruvananthapuram. Her ability to bowl accurately during the middle overs and her composure under pressure have made her a vital asset for captain Harmanpreet.

Also READ: Shafali Verma reveals Team India’s next big goal after their World Cup triumph

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

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders crushed Dubai Capitals by 50 runs in the ILT20 2025-26 Eliminator on January 1, 2026, at Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Michael Pepper‘s explosive 72 guided ADKR to 158/7, while Sunil Narine‘s masterful 3/12 dismantled DC for just 108. Jason Holder‘s comical skyer no-ball became the viral moment amid the Knight Riders’ dominant win.​

Jason Holder’s unusual no-ball ball in the Eliminator frustrates batters in ILT20 2025–26

In a bizarre over during DC’s chase, Holder, ADKR’s skipper, unleashed a comical skyer that sailed way too high and wide outside off, landing near the slip cordon for a no-ball. Teammates Andre Russell and Michael Pepper stood with hands on hips, visibly annoyed at the errant delivery to Shayan Jahangir, who watched bemused as umpires signalled the free-hit. The mishap, captured on video, drew laughs online but didn’t dent Holder’s resolve—he bounced back with figures of 3/18, including key strikes to Toby Albert, Mohammad Nabi, and Muhammad Jawadullah.​​

Here’s the video:

“TV Umpire to Director, can we check the height on this one for a No Ball?” 🫣

Keep those towels handy, Knights. 🧻#DCvADKR #DPWorldILT20 #WhereTheWorldPlays #AllInForCricket pic.twitter.com/Mi43Apq7hB

— International League T20 (@ILT20Official) January 1, 2026

Also WATCH: Shimron Hetmyer pulls off a stunning grab to dismiss Nicholas Pooran in ILT20 2025-26

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders’ commanding triumph over Dubai Capitals in ILT20 2026

Asked to bat first, ADKR came out with clear intent and wasted no time putting the opposition under pressure. Phil Salt and Pepper set the tone right from the start, combining aggression with smart shot selection. The pair raced to 55 inside the powerplay and brought up a century partnership in just 10.4 overs, leaving the fielding side scrambling for answers.

While Salt chipped in with a brisk 43, it was Pepper who held the innings together, playing a commanding knock of 72 laced with seven boundaries and three towering sixes. Just when a massive total looked on the cards, the momentum dipped as wickets fell in quick succession. Nabi triggered the slowdown with a sharp spell, picking up three wickets and conceding very little. Amid the late wobble, Holder’s unbeaten 22 off 11 balls ensured ADKR crossed to a competitive 158/7.

The chase never really found its feet. DC were rocked early as Narine weaved his magic in the powerplay, reducing them to 43 for 4 and completely shifting the balance of the match. Narine’s tight lines accounted for Shayan, who was trapped in front, before Gulbadin Naib and Navin Bidaisee followed soon after.

The pressure only intensified as Liam Livingstone and Holder joined the act, picking up regular wickets and closing every escape route. Nabi showed some resistance with a fighting 27, but once he was caught off Holder, the end came quickly. DC were bundled out for 108 in just over 16 overs. Narine’s match-winning spell earned him the Player of the Match award, as ADKR marched confidently into Qualifier 2, where MI Emirates now await.

Also WATCH: Sam Curran plucks a screamer to remove Gulbadin Naib and mimics Afghan star’s signature celebration in ILT20 2025-26

Sri Lanka have unveiled a well-rounded squad for the ICC Under-19 World Cup 2026, placing their faith in a new generation of talent as they look to make a deep run in the tournament. The team will be captained by Vimath Dinsara, with Kavija Gamage appointed as vice-captain, as Sri Lanka aim to build on their encouraging showing in the previous edition. The marquee youth event gets underway on January 15, with matches set to be played across Zimbabwe and Namibia.

Vimath Dinsara handed leadership responsibility

Dinsara has been entrusted with the captaincy after impressing selectors with his composure and consistency at the junior level. Known for his solid batting technique and calm presence in pressure situations, Dinsara is expected to anchor the innings while also leading from the front tactically. His deputy, Gamage, adds further stability to the leadership group, offering flexibility as both a batter and an all-round option.

Batting depth and all-round strength

Sri Lanka’s squad reflects a clear emphasis on batting depth and versatility. Alongside Dinsara and Gamage, Dimantha Mahavithana is another batter expected to play a key role at the top and middle order. The selectors have also placed considerable trust in a group of multi-skilled all-rounders, including Viran Chamuditha, Chamika Heentigala, and Gamage, who provide balance to the side with their ability to contribute in more than one discipline.

This all-round depth is likely to be crucial in the demanding conditions of Zimbabwe and Namibia, where teams often need to adapt quickly to varying pitches and weather. Sri Lanka’s think tank appears keen to avoid over-reliance on specialists, instead opting for players who can adjust their roles based on match situations.

Also READ: Australia name strong squad for U19 World Cup 2026, Oliver Peake to lead

Focus on adaptability and conditions

Sri Lanka’s approach for the 2026 edition is shaped heavily by lessons learned from the previous Under-19 World Cup in South Africa, where they progressed to the Super 6s stage. That campaign highlighted the importance of flexibility, particularly in overseas conditions. With venues spread across two countries, adaptability has once again become a central theme in selection.

The bowling unit features a mix of pace and spin options, with players like Sethmika Seneviratne, Kugathas Mathulan, Rasith Nimsara, and Vigneshwaran Akash expected to shoulder responsibility across different phases of the game. Their ability to exploit conditions early and control the middle overs could define Sri Lanka’s campaign.

Sri Lanka have been drawn into Group A, where they will face a stern test against defending champions Australia, along with Ireland and Japan. The group promises a blend of traditional powerhouses and emerging cricket nations, making consistency vital from the outset.

Sri Lanka will begin their tournament on January 17 against Japan, a fixture that offers an early opportunity to settle nerves and build momentum. However, clashes against Australia and Ireland are expected to provide a clearer picture of the team’s title credentials.

Sri Lanka U19 World Cup 2026 squad

Vimath Dinsara (c), Kavija Gamage (vc), Dimantha Mahavithana, Viran Chamuditha, Dulnith Sigera, Chamika Heentigala, Adam Hilmy, Chamarindu Nethsara, Sethmika Seneviratne, Kugathas Mathulan, Rasith Nimsara, Vigneshwaran Akash, Jeewantha Sriram, Senuja Wekunagoda, Malintha Silva

Also READ: Vaibhav Suryavanshi to lead India U19 in South Africa tour, Ayush Mhatre named captain for U19 World Cup 2026

In a high-octane clash at The Gabba, Brisbane Heat edged out Melbourne Stars by four wickets in the 20th match of Big Bash League|15 on January 2, 2026, chasing down 196 with just two balls to spare. Brisbane Heat, who won the toss and bowled first, restricted Stars to 195/6 before mounting a tense pursuit that kept 31,948 fans on edge. Max Bryant‘s unbeaten 48 off 26 balls, laced with three fours and four sixes, proved decisive in this pulsating encounter.​

Melbourne Stars set a competitive target for Brisbane Heat

Stars powered their way to 195 for six after coming out with clear intent, fully exploiting the powerplay to surge to 47 without loss in the first four overs. Sam Harper set the early momentum with a fluent 37 from 23 balls, cracking five fours and a six, as he stitched together a 52-run opening stand with Thomas Rogers, who added 13. The partnership was broken in the sixth over when Thomas Balkin clean-bowled Harper. Marcus Stoinis then took charge with a composed 43 off 35 deliveries, while Campbell Kellaway lifted the tempo through a brisk 29 from just 14 balls, peppered with six boundaries. Their 53-run stand for the third wicket carried the Stars beyond 100 by the 11th over, even as Glenn Maxwell failed to get going.

The Heat fought back strongly in the middle phase. Xavier Bartlett accounted for Stoinis, while Matthew Renshaw and Matthew Kuhnemann provided crucial breakthroughs, triggering a slide from 113 for four to 137 for six, with Tom Curran departing for two. Stability returned late as Hilton Cartwright remained unbeaten on 26 off 20 balls and Blake Macdonald unleashed a late burst, hammering 37 not out from 12 deliveries with four fours and two sixes. Their unbroken 58-run stand in just 19 balls pushed the Stars to an imposing total at a run rate of 9.75. Kuhnemann impressed with figures of one for 22, but the Stars’ late surge ensured a tough challenge under the lights.

Also WATCH: Jim Peirson grabs a screamer to remove Glenn Maxwell in BBL|15

Max Bryant’s fiery innings powers Brisbane Heat past Melbourne Stars in BBL|15

Brisbane Heat were rocked early as their innings stumbled in the opening phase, losing Jack Wildermuth for 15 to the guile of Peter Siddle and Colin Munro for just 3, undone by Tom Curran, to slide to 34 for 2 inside the powerplay. Skipper Nathan McSweeney steadied the ship with a composed 43 from 31 balls, finding solid support in Renshaw, who struck a fluent 41 off 27. Together, the duo stitched a vital 69-run partnership for the third wicket, lifting Heat to 103 for 3 by the 12th over after bringing up their fifty in only 5.5 overs.

The momentum shifted again when Mitchell Swepson struck twice, dismissing both set batters to leave Heat at 107 for 4, before Hugh Weibgen followed soon after at 109 for 5. Pressure mounted further as Jimmy Peirson fell for 14, caught off Haris Rauf, reducing the total to 133 for 6.

That was when Bryant turned the game on its head. Blasting an unbeaten 48 off 26 balls, Bryant launched four towering sixes, including decisive hits in the 17th over, pushing the score beyond 150 by 16.5 overs. With Bartlett chipping in with a brisk 21 not out from 9 deliveries, the pair added a stunning 66 runs for the seventh wicket in just 20 balls. Heat raced to 199 for 6 in 19.4 overs at a scorching rate of 10.11. Despite Siddle and Swepson picking up two wickets apiece, Bryant’s blistering strike rate of 184.61 left the Stars stunned and powered Brisbane Heat up the standings in what became BBL|15’s tightest finish yet.

An outstanding win for Brisbane Heat 💪🔥#BBL15 pic.twitter.com/NgTHLYezmF

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) January 2, 2026

Also READ: Fans erupt as Mitchell Marsh lights up BBL|15 with thunderous century against Hobart Hurricanes

On January 1, 2026, Pakistan’s premier batter Babar Azam reached a significant career milestone during the Big Bash League (BBL) 15, drawing level with former England captain Jos Buttler in the T20 record books. Representing the Sydney Sixers against the Melbourne Renegades at Docklands Stadium, Babar anchored a successful chase with an unbeaten 58 off 46 deliveries.

Babar Azam matches Jos Buttler’s elite T20 record

Babar’s latest performance has officially placed him alongside Buttler as the joint third-highest fifty-run scorer in T20 history. While both players now share a tally of 97 career half-centuries, the efficiency with which Babar reached the mark is notable, having taken significantly fewer matches than his English counterpart to achieve the same result.

The former Pakistan captain achieved this milestone in his 333rd T20 match, which also includes 11 centuries, while Buttler reached the mark in 476 matches with eight centuries to his name. The record for the most half-centuries in the format remains with former Australian great David Warner, who has 113 fifties in 428 matches.

Top T20 Half-Centuries (as of January 2026):

• David Warner: 113
• Virat Kohli: 105
• Babar Azam / Jos Buttler: 97
• Alex Hales: 92

Also READ: BBL|15: Check out the full list of Pakistan and Bangladesh players playing in the Big Bash League

Babar’s BBL 15 journey: Finding form after a challenging start

Babar’s stint with the Sydney Sixers in BBL 15 has been a journey of adaptation and resilience, characterized by a slow start followed by high-impact match-winning performances. Entering his debut season in Australia, the 31-year-old initially struggled with the extra bounce and movement, recording scores of 2, 9 and 2 in his early outings.

However, he has since found his rhythm, registering two crucial half-centuries in his last three matches, a 58 in the Sydney derby against the Thunder and his most recent unbeaten 58 against the Renegades. Currently, he has accumulated 129 runs at an average of 32.25, providing the stability the Sixers need at the top of the order as they climb to fifth on the points table. His ability to anchor the innings allowed teammates like Joel Davies to play freely, ultimately ending the Sixers’ losing streak and providing a perfect start to the 2026 calendar year.

Also READ: BBL|15: Cricket Australia unveils full schedule for Big Bash League 2025-26

In the electrifying 20th match of BBL|15 at The Gabba in Brisbane on January 2, 2026, Melbourne Stars posted a formidable 195/6 against Brisbane Heat, who won the toss and opted to field under the floodlights. ​ Stars’ aggressive batting set a challenging target of 9.75 runs per over, fuelled by explosive starts and late fireworks, leaving Heat with a steep chase ahead. ​

Jim Pierson takes an unbelievable catch to remove Glenn Maxwell in BBL|15

Jimmy Peirson produced one of BBL|15’s early highlight-reel moments in the 12.1 over, diving full-length to his right to pouch a glove off Glenn Maxwell, bowled by Matthew Kuhnemann. ​ Maxwell, shaping for the predictable reverse sweep on a tossed-up delivery around middle and leg, nicked it onto his pad, looping the ball tantalizingly close yet deceptively tough—Peirson tracked it masterfully before lunging to snag the screamer, dismissing the Stars’ danger man for just 1 off 2 balls at 113/4.

This massive breakthrough stifled Stars’ momentum after a blistering powerplay, with Kuhnemann’s economical spell proving pivotal, and social media erupting in awe over Peirson’s “freakish” athleticism. ​ Peirson, the experienced Heat gloveman, celebrated wildly as Maxwell trudged off, shifting win probability firmly toward Brisbane at a crucial juncture. ​

Here’s the video:

What a take that is 😳

Glenn Maxwell is out after Jimmy Peirson took this spectacular catch at The Gabba! #BBL15 #GoldenMoment @BKTtires pic.twitter.com/tx5XRcXKBV

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 2, 2026

Also READ: Fans erupt as Mitchell Marsh lights up BBL|15 with thunderous century against Hobart Hurricanes

Brisbane Heat face the heat as Melbourne Stars put up a massive total

Melbourne Stars came out flying, racing to 47 without loss in the powerplay as Sam Harper went on the attack from ball one. Harper smashed a quickfire 37 from just 23 deliveries, finding the fence five times and clearing it once, while Thomas Rogers played the supporting role with 13 from 12 balls. The Stars brought up their fifty inside five overs, underlining their intent early on. Harper’s charge ended on 52 for one when he was caught by Jack Wildermuth off Thomas Balkin, and soon after Rogers was bowled by Matthew Renshaw at 56 for two.

Marcus Stoinis then took charge, combining with Campbell Kellaway to steady the innings and rebuild momentum. Stoinis made a fluent 43 from 35 balls, while Kellaway chipped in with a rapid 29 off just 14, striking six boundaries. Their partnership lifted the Stars past 100 by the end of the 11th over, reaching 109 for three shortly after.

The innings briefly lost shape after Maxwell’s departure, with Stoinis dismissed at 134 for five and Tom Curran following soon after. However, Hilton Cartwright and Blake Macdonald ensured a strong finish, adding an unbeaten 58 in the final overs. Macdonald’s explosive 37 off 12 balls powered a late surge, as the Stars piled on runs despite an over-rate penalty. Brisbane Heat bowlers rotated well but were kept under pressure throughout, leaving them a steep chase of 196 under the Gabba lights.

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

In a pulse-pounding New Year’s Day clash at the Wanderers, Joburg Super Kings edged Durban’s Super Giants in SA20 2025-26‘s first-ever Super Over, thanks to Donovan Ferreira‘s lightning-fast run-out on the final ball. Captain Faf du Plessis hailed the moment as reminiscent of MS Dhoni‘s legendary 2016 T20 World Cup heroics, crediting sharp wicketkeeping instincts for forcing the tie. This victory marked JSK’s third straight win, boosting their playoff charge in the high-octane T20 league.​

Donnovan Ferreira’s all-round fireworks ignite wanderers as Joburg Super Kings come on top

Joburg Super Kings posted a daunting 205/4 after being sent in, powered by Du Plessis’s composed 47 off 30 balls and Shubham Ranjane‘s unbeaten 50 off 31. Ferreira exploded with an unbeaten 33 off just 10 balls, smashing four sixes and a four in a brutal death-overs assault that lifted JSK beyond 200. Noor Ahmad‘s stellar 3/12 threatened to derail the innings, but Ferreira’s blitz ensured a defendable total on the Bullring’s lively pitch.​

Durban’s Super Giants mounted a fierce chase, reaching 205/8 in regulation overs behind Evan Jones‘s explosive 43 off 17 and Aiden Markram‘s gritty 37. Richard Gleeson‘s 3/41, including crucial strikes in the 19th over, kept JSK in the hunt amid high drama. With one run needed off the last ball from Wiaan Mulder, Simon Harmer missed a short delivery angled across him, prompting a desperate bye attempt with Eathan Bosch.​

The Betway South Africa Moment of the Match that saw the FIRST super over for the #BetwaySA20 🤯#JSKvDSG #WelcomeToIncredible pic.twitter.com/ZDuat45wyd

— Betway SA20 (@SA20_League) January 1, 2026

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

Donovan Ferreira’s stunning run-out triggers Faf du Plessis to recall MS Dhoni

Alert as ever, Ferreira whipped off his glove and unleashed a direct hit to catch Bosch short, tying the scores and sending the capacity crowd into delirium. In the post-match presentation, Du Plessis revealed his tactical nod to Dhoni: “I remember a game long ago when MS Dhoni was behind the stumps for India against Bangladesh in a World Cup. The bowler angled a cut ball across, and they planned for the dash.”​

From Chennai to Joburg, the DNA remains the same! 🦁🇿🇦
Faf du Plessis sees shades of MSD in Donovan Ferreira’s glovework today. That calmness, that speed… straight out of the Dhoni playbook. 😎#JoburgSuperKings #CSK #MSDhoni #Faf #SA2026@SA20_League pic.twitter.com/Vavp1fs3Q8

— KING | RAGNAR ⁰⁷ (@sukh_sukhe) January 2, 2026

That 2016 T20 World Cup Super 10s thriller in Bengaluru saw India defend 146/7. Bangladesh needed two off the final ball from Hardik Pandya; Shuvagata Hom missed a short wide delivery, and Dhoni—glove off—sprinted to whip the bails before Mustafizur Rahman, securing a one-run win. Du Plessis, who shared IPL camaraderie with Dhoni at Chennai Super Kings, praised Ferreira’s “ice in the veins,” mirroring the Dhoni’s composure under knockout pressure.​

The Super Over sealed JSK’s triumph where Gleeson conceded six, while Ahmad leaked eight as JSK chased it down. Ferreira earned Player of the Match for his bat-ball-glove mastery, underscoring his rise as SA20’s versatile star. For Du Plessis, the echo of Dhoni’s genius added poetic flair to a match that redefined SA20 intensity.

Also READ: Sunrisers Eastern Cape skittle Paarl Royals for SA20’s lowest-ever total in one-sided win

Paarl Royals host MI Cape Town in a crucial early-season SA20 clash at Boland Park, where home advantage and conditions could be decisive in what shapes as a tight contest.​ Both teams are searching for consistency after mixed starts to the SA20 2025-26 campaign, making this fixture important for momentum and table position.​ Paarl Royals bounced back from a 137-run hammering against Sunrisers Eastern Cape with a composed five-wicket win in the return fixture, easing nerves in their camp.​ MI Cape Town sit near the bottom after two outings, leaking 232 and 220 runs in their first two games, with their bowling under particular scrutiny.

Royals’ batting revolves around David Miller’s experience in the middle order, with young opener Lhuan-dre Pretorius giving them much-needed impetus at the top after a slow start to the tournament.​ MI Cape Town’s strength is their top four: Rassie van der Dussen, Ryan Rickelton, Reeza Hendricks and Nicholas Pooran, who can take the game away if they see off the powerplay.​ The contest between Paarl’s spin-heavy attack featuring Bjorn Fortuin and Mujeeb Ur Rahman, and MI Cape Town’s aggressive middle order led by Pooran, could define the game on a surface that rewards variation and accuracy.

PR vs MICT, SA20 2025-26: Match details

• Date and Time: January 2 (Friday); 9:00 pm IST / 03:30 pm GMT / 5:30 pm Local
• Venue: Boland Park, Paarl

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

Matches played: 7 | Paarl Royals won: 5 | MI Cape Town won: 2 | No result/Tied: 0

Boland Park Ground Pitch Report

Boland Park is traditionally on the slower side, with a balanced surface where cutters, slower balls and spin come into play as the match progresses.​ Recent SA20 numbers at Paarl show average first-innings scores hovering around the mid-150s to high-150s, suggesting 160–170 should be a competitive total rather than the 200-plus scores seen at high-scoring venues.​ Under lights, the new ball can nip around for 4–5 overs before the surface grips, so top orders will need to survive the early movement before accessing the shorter square boundaries.

Squads:

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

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

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

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

Case 1:

• Paarl Royals wins the toss and bowls first
• MI Cape Town powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• MI Cape Town total score: 165-175

Case 2:

• MI Cape Town wins the toss and bowls first
• Paarl Royals’ powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Paarl Royals’ total score: 150-160

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: Sunrisers Eastern Cape skittle Paarl Royals for SA20’s lowest-ever total in one-sided win