India’s squad selection for the upcoming T20I series against New Zealand and the long-term planning for the 2026 T20 World Cup has sparked fresh debate after star batter Shubman Gill was left out of the T20I setup. While the decision raised eyebrows among fans, former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has urged calm, insisting that Gill’s exclusion is more about team balance and fierce competition rather than a dip in form or trust.

Selectors opt for Sanju Samson at the top

The selection committee’s decision to move forward with Sanju Samson as one of the preferred opening options underlines India’s intent to maximize flexibility and explosiveness at the top of the order. With the T20 format becoming increasingly demanding, the management has prioritized combinations that suit specific conditions and opposition strengths, especially with a global tournament approaching.

Gill, despite being one of India’s most consistent batters across formats in recent years, has found himself edged out due to the sheer depth India currently enjoys in white-ball cricket. Several openers and middle-order batters are vying for limited spots, making selection calls tougher than ever before.

Also READ: Top 5 contenders for the 2025 ICC Cricketer of the Year Award

Harbhajan highlights Shubman Gill’s technique and mindset amid star batter’s exclusion from T20 World Cup 2026

Coming to Gill’s defence, Harbhajan stressed that the decision should not be viewed as a setback or warning sign for the 26-year-old. According to the veteran spinner, Gill’s classical technique and strong temperament remain his biggest assets, which will eventually help him reclaim his place in the shortest format as well.

Harbhajan pointed out that Gill has never taken his spot in the side for granted and continues to work on his game despite intense scrutiny. He added that competition is a healthy sign for Indian cricket and sometimes even top players have to sit out when team combinations demand change.

One of the strongest arguments in Gill’s favour, Harbhajan noted, is the leadership responsibility entrusted to him in other formats. Gill continues to lead India in Tests and One-Day Internationals, a clear indication that the selectors and team management see him as a long-term leader and cornerstone of Indian cricket.

“It is not a signal for Gill. He was not taking his place for granted, but the competition is so tough that there are many players who can take that slot and perform well for the team. This is not the end of the road for him. He is a great player with beautiful technique. I believe he will make a brilliant comeback, and we should not forget that he is still the Test captain,” Harbhajan said as quoted by India Today.

Also READ: Former cricketer explains why Shubman Gill cannot be all-format captain of India

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president Rajeev Shukla has reacted to the reports suggesting that Gautam Gambhir’s position as India’s Test head coach is under threat. Following India’s shock home Test series whitewash against South Africa, speculation intensified in the cricketing circuit about a possible coaching overhaul, with former India batter VVS Laxman being touted as a potential replacement. The board, however, has now moved swiftly to shut down all such claims.

Rajeev Shukla opens up amid reports of Gautam Gambhir’s uncertain future

Rajeev publicly addressed the rumours and made it clear that the board has full faith in Gambhir’s leadership. Speaking to the media, Shukla categorically stated that there is no discussion or proposal within the BCCI to remove Gambhir from his role as India’s head coach.

“I want to make it very clear regarding the speculation circulating in the media about head coach Gautam Gambhir. The BCCI secretary (Devajit Saikia) has also made it very clear that there is no plan to remove Gambhir or bring in a new head coach for India,” Shukla said, as quoted by News18.

Gambhir’s tenure under the scanner

Gambhir took over as India’s head coach in July 2024, succeeding Rahul Dravid after the latter’s successful tenure. While Gambhir’s appointment was initially welcomed for his no-nonsense approach and tactical clarity, India’s red-ball performances have drawn criticism over the past year.

The recent defeat against South Africa marked India’s first home Test series loss to the Proteas since 2000. This setback came on the back of a 0-3 home series defeat to New Zealand last year, making it two consecutive home series losses in Tests. Compounding the disappointment, India also failed to qualify for the World Test Championship final for the first time since the tournament began, further fuelling doubts about the team’s direction in the longest format.

Despite the red-ball struggles, Gambhir’s overall coaching record presents a more balanced picture. Under his guidance, India have enjoyed significant success in white-ball cricket, winning the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup in 2025.

Also READ: Kapil Dev shares his honest view on Gautam Gambhir’s coaching tenure ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026

Road Ahead for Team India

For now, the BCCI’s stance puts an end to uncertainty around Gambhir’s future and signals continuity in leadership. India’s immediate focus will shift back to limited-overs cricket, where they aim to defend their T20 World Cup title. In Test cricket, upcoming tours of Sri Lanka and New Zealand in 2026 will be crucial in rebuilding confidence, before attention turns to the marquee five-Test home Border-Gavaskar Trophy against Australia in 2027.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin picks 2 standout players for India in 2025

Royal Challengers Bengaluru‘s preparations for IPL 2026 have hit a snag as star finisher Tim David battles a recurring hamstring injury that ruled him out of the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) season. The Australian all-rounder, retained by RCB after a impactful IPL 2025 stint, suffered a Grade 2 right hamstring strain on December 26, 2025, during Hobart Hurricanes‘ win over Perth Scorchers, forcing him to retire hurt after smashing 42 off 28 balls.

This marks his second such setback in 2025, following a similar issue during IPL 2025 that sidelined him for two months and key playoff matches with RCB. While recovery timelines suggest a 4-6 week rehab for a standard Grade 2 strain—potentially aligning with the T20 World Cup in early 2026—complications could stretch it to 12 weeks, casting shadows over his IPL availability starting late March.​ Franchise scouts are eyeing versatile all-rounders who mirror his skillset—big-hitting batters with bowling utility—to bolster depth amid squad needs like overseas pace backups. ​

IPL 2026: 3 possible replacements for injured Tim David

1. Michael Bracewell

New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell emerges as a seamless fit, having already dazzled in five IPL games for RCB with 58 runs at a blistering 123.40 strike rate and six wickets at an economy of 8.63. Across 44 T20s, he boasts 458 runs at a 138.6 strike rate, including a high of 61, paired with 20 wickets at 17.85 average highlighting his left-handed power and nagging off-spin. Recent Vitality Blast exploits (91 runs, seven wickets) and Major League Cricket hauls (241 runs at 128.19 SR) underline his death-over prowess, making him ideal for RCB’s Chinnaswamy demands.​

Bracewell’s prior RCB stint reduces adaptation risks, and his international pedigree (T20Is vs India, Sri Lanka) adds tactical edge. At a projected base price under INR 2 crore, he offers value amid RCB’s purse constraints, potentially filling overseas slots without breaking the bank.​

Also READ: IPL 2026: 3 players RCB can sign to replace Josh Hazlewood if he misses out

2. Wiaan Mulder

South Africa‘s Wiaan Mulder brings raw T20 aggression, amassing 646 runs at 137.15 strike rate in 33 SA20 games with three fifties, complemented by 10 wickets. His Vitality Blast record (546 runs at 131.25 SR, 12 wickets) showcases consistency, while a brief IPL outing with SRH (9 runs) hints at untapped potential in the franchise format. Mulder’s right-handed batting aligns with David’s finisher mold, and his medium-pace bowling (T20 economy around 9) provides balance, especially useful on turning Indian pitches.​

With IPL 2026 exposure limited, Mulder could be a bargain overseas buy, allowing RCB to retain slots for pacers like Josh Hazlewood backups. His SA20 explosiveness (26 sixes) suits high-scoring venues, positioning him as a high-upside replacement if David falters.​

3. Mahipal Lomror

Indian all-rounder Mahipal Lomror offers a cost-effective, uncapped-like domestic solution, having slammed 527 runs at 141.28 strike rate in 40 IPL matches across RR and RCB teams, including a 54* high and 30 sixes. His left-arm spin (one IPL wicket) adds variety, though batting remains his forte—evident in recent domestic T20s where he thrives as a middle-order accelerator. Lomror’s retention history with RR and brief RCB exposure make him a low-risk, high-reward pick for slots needing Indian depth.​

As an affordable option (likely under INR 1 crore), Lomror frees purse for stars while delivering Chinnaswamy sixes. His ambidextrous skills echo David’s utility, ensuring RCB stays competitive even if the Australian misses the IPL 2026.​

Also READ: Ricky Ponting takes swipe at ₹25.20 crore IPL signing of Cameron Green

The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 has been hit by a major late setback with Australian stars Ellyse Perry and Annabel Sutherland pulling out of the tournament due to personal reasons. Their withdrawals come less than two weeks before the start of the fourth edition, forcing Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Delhi Capitals (DC) into last-minute squad adjustments.

RCB lose their talisman as Ellyse Perry withdraws from WPL 2026

Perry’s withdrawal is a particularly heavy blow for RCB, who have built much of their recent success around the veteran all-rounder. The Australian was instrumental in Bengaluru’s title-winning campaign in 2024, finishing the season as the Orange Cap holder with 347 runs at a staggering average of 69.40, while also contributing seven wickets in nine matches.

Even during an injury-disrupted 2025 season, Perry remained RCB’s most reliable performer, scoring 372 runs in just eight matches, including four half-centuries. Her consistency with the bat and calm leadership presence made her a cornerstone of the franchise, which retained her for INR 2 crore ahead of WPL 2026.

To fill the void, RCB have signed Indian all-rounder Sayali Satghare at her reserve price of INR 30 lakh. While Satghare brings domestic experience and versatility, replacing Perry’s impact will be a daunting challenge for the defending champions.

Also READ: Delhi Capitals appoints a new captain ahead of Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026

Annabel Sutherland’s absence reshapes Delhi Capitals’ plans

Delhi Capitals have also been forced to rethink their balance following Sutherland’s exit. The Australian all-rounder played a vital role in DC’s run to the final last season, picking up nine wickets at an impressive economy rate of 7.57 while offering depth with the bat. Her performances earned her a retention worth INR 2.2 crore, underlining the franchise’s faith in her abilities.

In response, DC have roped in Australian leg-spinner Alana King for INR 60 lakh. King, who previously represented UP Warriorz, adds significant international experience to the Capitals’ bowling attack, having claimed 27 wickets in 27 T20Is. Her inclusion strengthens DC’s spin resources, though Sutherland’s all-round value will be hard to replicate.

UP Warriorz make a forced change

Meanwhile, UP Warriorz have also announced a squad update, with USA pacer Tara Norris set to miss the season after being selected for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal, scheduled from January 18 to February 1. The Warriorz have named uncapped Australian all-rounder Charli Knott as her replacement at a reserve price of INR 10 lakh.

Also READ: WPL 2026 Mega Auction: Complete list of unsold players

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

Perth Scorchers captain Ashton Turner delivered a match-winning 99 not out from 41 balls, smashing eight fours and eight sixes, to propel his side to 202 for eight against Sydney Thunder in the BBL|15 16th match at Sydney Showground Stadium on December 30, 2025. The explosive knock overshadowed early setbacks, setting a daunting target that Thunder crumbled chasing, folding for 131 in 17.3 overs to hand Scorchers a commanding 71-run victory. This clinical performance boosted Perth’s playoff push while deepening Sydney’s mid-table struggles.​

Ashton Turner’s blazing innings sets the tone for Perth Scorchers

Perth Scorchers stumbled early in their 20-over innings, slumping to 34 for four inside the powerplay after Mitchell Marsh (6 off 7), Finn Allen (11 off 9), Cooper Connolly (28 off 27), and Josh Inglis (13 off 9) departed to strikes from Nathan McAndrew, Reece Topley, and Daniel Sams.

Turner, entering at number five, flipped the script with a brutal assault, racing to a 22-ball fifty featuring five fours and four sixes, highlighted by a 76-run stand with Connolly off just 41 balls that ignited the innings past 100 by the 12th over. Laurie Evans (10) and Aaron Hardie (28 off 16, five fours) chipped in during a late surge, pushing the total beyond 200 in the 20th over despite Sams’ four for 51 and Topley’s two for 34; Turner stranded agonisingly short of his ton as Joel Paris (0) holed out off the final ball.​

Also WATCH: Tanveer Sangha takes a sensational diving catch to dismiss Josh Inglis in BBL|15

Perth Scorchers’ bowling seals dominant win against Sydney Thunder

Sydney Thunder started strongly in pursuit of 203, racing to 60 for one in the powerplay with David Warner (25 off 21, two sixes) and Matthew Gilkes (33 off 19, three fours, two sixes) adding 50 in 35 balls. But Mahli Beardman struck first, snaring Warner, triggering a collapse as Gilkes ran out next over, followed by Cameron Bancroft (2), Sam Billings (0), and Daniel Sams (16) to slide to 81 for four at drinks by 9.5 overs.​

Hardie (two for 7) and Connolly (two for 26) then choked the middle order, removing Sam Konstas (21), Chris Green (5), and Shadab (4), while Paris (two for 28) and Brody Couch (two for 28) cleaned up the tail with McAndrew (11) and Topley (5) falling to leave Thunder 131 all out in 17.3 overs.

That’s a huge win for the Perth Scorchers in Syndey 🔥#BBL2025 #perthscorchers pic.twitter.com/fjTAJnXosh

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 30, 2025

Also READ: Nathan Ellis’ bowling brilliance and Matthew Wade’s late fireworks seal thrilling Hobart Hurricanes’ win over Melbourne Renegades in BBL|15

A fresh controversy has emerged at the intersection of Bollywood and Indian cricket after actress and reality TV personality Khushi Mukherjee made startling claims involving India’s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, Mukherjee alleged that the star cricketer used to message her frequently in the past—remarks that have since triggered widespread discussion across social media and news platforms.

Khushi Mukherjee makes astonishing claim about Suryakumar Yadav

Mukherjee’s comments came during a media interaction at a clinic inauguration event, where she was questioned about her personal life and the recurring speculation around celebrity–sportsperson relationships. What began as a routine query quickly turned into a headline-grabbing moment when the actress addressed rumours of link-ups with professional athletes.

Responding candidly, Mukherjee asserted that she has no interest in dating cricketers and distanced herself from any perceived associations.

“I don’t want to date any cricketer. There are so many cricketers after me,” she told reporters, setting the tone for what followed.

The most striking part of Mukherjee’s response was her direct reference to the Indian batter.

“Suryakumar Yadav used to message me a lot. Now we don’t talk much, and I don’t even want to get associated,” said Khushi, making it clear that any communication, according to her, belongs to the past.

Mukherjee further stressed that there is currently no contact between the two and that she is keen to avoid being drawn into speculation or link-up narratives.

“I don’t like any link-ups with me, so there really isn’t any,” she added, underlining her desire to keep her personal life away from public conjecture.

Also READ: Former Indian cricketer picks best ODI XI of 2025, no place for Daryl Mitchell

No response from cricketer’s camp

As of now, there has been no official response or clarification from Suryakumar or his representatives regarding the actress’s claims. The Indian cricketer, who has been one of the most prominent faces in white-ball cricket and a key leader in India’s T20 setup, is known for keeping his personal life largely private.

In the absence of a response, the comments remain unverified claims made during a public interaction, though they have already sparked intense debate online. Fans and commentators have been divided, with some urging restraint and others calling for clarity from the concerned parties.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin picks 2 standout players for India in 2025

Perth Scorchers posted a formidable 202 for eight against Sydney Thunder in the 16th match of Big Bash League 2025-26 at Sydney Showground Stadium on December 30, after Thunder captain David Warner opted to field first. Ashton Turner‘s explosive 99 not out off 41 balls nearly carried his side to a 210-plus total, but he fell agonizingly short of a century in a thrilling night of T20 action. The game swung early with Thunder’s bowlers striking blows, highlighted by Tanveer Sangha‘s stunning diving catch to dismiss Josh Inglis.

Tanveer Sangha grabs a screamer to send back Josh Inglis

Thunder’s fielding lit up the floodlights when Daniel Sams delivered a short ball on middle and leg at 5.3 overs, climbing awkwardly on Inglis, who was fresh from Test squad release for this outing. Cramped for room, Inglis shanked a top edge high toward deep square leg, where Sangha sprinted in, dove full length forward, and plucked a blinder inches from the turf to send back the Scorchers keeper-batter for 13 off nine balls.

That wicket left Scorchers reeling at 34 for three, with openers Mitchell Marsh (6) and Finn Allen (11) already gone, validating Thunder’s bold toss decision amid predictions of a high-scoring deck. Sangha’s athleticism, replayed endlessly online, shifted momentum before Turner’s onslaught rebuilt the innings.

Here’s the video:

Tanveer Sangha on the dive 🫨

Some catch to remove Josh Inglis in his first match of #BBL15. pic.twitter.com/C0xiJj3GRe

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 30, 2025

Also READ: Nathan Ellis’ bowling brilliance and Matthew Wade’s late fireworks seal thrilling Hobart Hurricanes’ win over Melbourne Renegades in BBL|15

Ashton Turner falls short of a century as Perth Scorchers post a massive total

Perth Scorchers found their spark after a slow start, and it was skipper Ashton Turner who lit up the night with a breathtaking counterattack. When drinks were taken at the halfway mark, Perth were wobbling at 86 for three, but Turner had other ideas. He shifted gears instantly, tearing into the bowling with a fearless display of clean hitting. His half-century came off just 22 balls, filled with a mix of crisp boundaries and towering sixes, as the momentum swung sharply in Perth’s favour.

Turner first steadied things alongside Cooper Connolly, and the pair pushed the score past 100 before accelerating further. Even after wickets fell, the Scorchers never lost pace. Turner continued the assault with Aaron Hardie, hammering the bowlers to all parts and ensuring Perth finished with a formidable total. Thunder did manage to strike back through Sams, who picked up four wickets, while Shadab Khan chipped in with a crucial breakthrough. Still, Turner’s innings was the story of the night, cruelly ending on 99 as Perth surged to 202 for eight, leaving Thunder a stiff chase under the Sydney lights.

Also READ: Haris Rauf’s bowling brilliance and Joe Clarke’s batting onslaught lead Melbourne Stars to a dominant win over Sydney Thunder in BBL|15

Former India batter Abhinav Mukund has unveiled his Men’s ODI Team of the Year for 2025, featuring a star-studded XI led by Rohit Sharma and anchored by Virat Kohli, but with no room for New Zealand’s in-form middle-order force Daryl Mitchell. The line-up, packed with run machines and wicket-takers from India, New Zealand, England, South Africa and West Indies, heavily rewards Champions Trophy 2025 performances and season-long consistency across conditions.​

No place for Daryl Mitchell despite standout year

Mukund’s XI was always going to be a tight squeeze in the middle order, and Mitchell is arguably the biggest name to miss out after another influential year in ODIs for New Zealand. The Black Caps star played a key role in the Champions Trophy final, crafting a crucial half-century in Dubai to set up a competitive total against India, yet still could not edge into Mukund’s chosen four-man core of Kohli, Matthew Breetzke, KL Rahul and all-rounder Michael Bracewell.​

Mitchell’s omission underlines how strongly Mukund has weighted all-round balance and pure statistical dominance in 2025. With Rachin Ravindra already locking one New Zealand batting spot as Player of the Tournament in the Champions Trophy and a prolific season overall, there was limited space left once the Indian stalwarts and South Africa’s new “Mr Consistency” Breetzke were pencilled in. The decision effectively signals that, in Mukund’s eyes, Ravindra’s explosive run-scoring and the three-spinner template of Bracewell, Santner and Adil Rashid gave New Zealand and England’s all-round spin options more value than adding another specialist middle-order batter like Mitchell in this particular XI.​

Ex-cricketer reveals his best ODI XI of 2025

Mukund’s team blends proven big-tournament temperament with 2025 form, starting at the top with India’s captain Rohit and New Zealand’s breakout star Ravindra.​

1. Rohit Sharma (c) – opener

Rohit enjoyed a vintage year in ODIs, scoring 650 runs in 14 innings at an average of 50 and a strike rate of 100.46, smashing two centuries and four fifties while also lifting the Champions Trophy as India’s captain.​

Rohit Sharma in 2025: 14 matches | 650 runs | 100.46 strike rate ​

2. Rachin Ravindra – opener

Ravindra was the heartbeat of New Zealand’s top order, finishing 2025 with 604 ODI runs at an average of 43.14 and a blistering strike rate of 106.90, including multiple centuries and the Player of the Tournament award at the Champions Trophy with 263 runs at 65.75.​

Rachin Ravindra in 2025: 14 matches | 604 runs | 106.90 strike rate ​

3. Virat Kohli – No.3

Kohli produced yet another dominant ODI year, piling up runs at an average of over 65 with a strike rate of 96.15 in 13 matches, reaffirming his status as the lynchpin at one-down in pressure chases and big tournaments.​

Virat Kohli in 2025: 13 matches | 651 runs | 96.15 strike rate ​

4. Matthew Breetzke – No.4

South African batter Breetzke emerged as one of 2025’s biggest revelations, registering more than 700 runs in just 12 ODIs at an average of 64.18 and a strike rate of 96.71, with one century and six fifties in a superb debut year.​

Matthew Breetzke in 2025: 12 matches | 706 runs | 96.71 strike rate ​

Also READ: Former cricketer picks best T20I XI of 2025, no place for Jasprit Bumrah

5. KL Rahul (wk) – No.5/6, wicketkeeper

KL Rahul provided flexibility and calm to India’s middle order, amassing 367 runs in 2025 at an average of 52.42 and an impressive strike rate close to 108 while also taking the gloves, which convinced Mukund to use him as the designated wicketkeeper in this XI.​

KL Rahul in 2025: 14 matches (ODIs) | 367 runs | 107.94 strike rate ​

6. Michael Bracewell – No.6, batting all-rounder

Bracewell reinforced his reputation as a high-impact all-rounder, contributing vital runs through the middle overs and delivering key breakthroughs with his off-spin during New Zealand’s run to the Champions Trophy final.​

Michael Bracewell in 2025 (ODIs): 18 matches (ODIs) | 368 runs | 98.92 strike rate

7. Mitchell Santner – No.7, bowling all-rounder

Santner provided control, variations and lower-order stability, playing a “massive role” in New Zealand’s attack; he finished among the leading ODI wicket-takers in 2025 with 25 wickets while operating as a containing left-arm spinner.​

Mitchell Santner in 2025: 17 matches | 25 wickets | 3/41 BBI ​

8. Adil Rashid – No.8, leg-spinner

England’s Rashid gave Mukund a third frontline spin option, collecting 30 wickets in 15 ODIs at an outstanding level of consistency to remain one of the world’s premier limited-overs leg-spinners through the year.​

Adil Rashid in 2025: 15 matches | 30 wickets | 4/63 BBI ​

9. Matt Henry – No.9, fast bowler

Henry topped the ODI wicket charts in 2025, taking 31 wickets in 13 matches at an average of 18.58, repeatedly providing new-ball strikes and death-overs reliability for New Zealand.​
Matt Henry in 2025: 13 matches | 31 wickets | 5/42 BBI ​

10. Jayden Seales – No.10, fast bowler

West Indies pacer Jayden Seales continued his rapid rise, grabbing 27 wickets in 12 ODIs at an average of 18.14, including a devastating six-wicket haul that underlined his status as one of the most exciting young quicks in the format.​

Jayden Seales in 2025: 12 matches | 27 wickets | 6/18 BBI ​

11. Jofra Archer – No.11, fast bowler

Completing the XI, Jofra Archer’s raw pace and accuracy earned him 18 wickets in nine ODIs at an average of 22.44 and an economy rate of just 5.05, making him the ideal enforcer and death-overs specialist in Mukund’s set-up.​

Jofra Archer in 2025: 9 matches | 18 wickets | 4/18 BBI

Also READ: Top 5 contenders for the 2025 ICC Cricketer of the Year Award

England have revealed their provisional squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, and the announcement has sparked immediate debate. While pace spearhead Jofra Archer has been included despite ongoing fitness issues, wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith has been dropped entirely from the limited-overs setup, signalling a decisive shift in England’s white-ball planning ahead of the global event in India and Sri Lanka.

Jofra Archer backed despite Ashes setback

Archer’s inclusion is the headline decision, especially after a left side strain forced him out of the Ashes following the third Test. Despite the injury, England’s management has shown faith in his match-winning ability, shaped by his standout performances earlier in the series. Before being sidelined, Archer claimed nine wickets at an average of 27.11, including a five-wicket haul in Adelaide, and even contributed valuable runs with the bat.

The fast bowler left Australia on Boxing Day and is currently rehabilitating in Barbados under the supervision of the England and Wales Cricket Board’s medical staff. While he will miss the upcoming ODI and T20I tour of Sri Lanka starting January 22, England expect him to be fully fit in time to rejoin the squad in India ahead of their opening Group C match against Nepal in Mumbai on February 8.

Josh Tongue rewarded for red-hot form

Another talking point is the inclusion of Josh Tongue, who is uncapped in international limited-overs cricket. Head coach Brendon McCullum and white-ball captain Harry Brook view Tongue as a strike bowler capable of exploiting the flatter pitches expected in the subcontinent.

Though relatively inexperienced in T20s, Tongue’s recent performances have been hard to ignore. He finished as the leading wicket-taker in this year’s men’s Hundred and impressed during the Ashes, highlighted by a match-winning five-for at the MCG that earned him Player of the Match honours in England’s historic Test victory.

Jamie Smith axed after failed experiment

The most significant omission is Smith, who has been dropped from both the T20I and ODI plans. England’s experiment of pushing Smith to the top of the order has not delivered the desired returns, prompting selectors to move on ahead of a demanding World Cup campaign.

In contrast, Ben Duckett has been recalled after missing the T20Is in New Zealand, while Will Jacks returns following his absence from the same tour. Zak Crawley also finds his way back into the ODI setup, aiming to add to his limited experience in the 50-over format.

Also READ: Lakshmipathy Balaji predicts the finalists of T20 World Cup 2026

Injuries and omissions shape England’s plans

England have also been forced into tough calls due to injuries. Jordan Cox misses out, while seamer Saqib Mahmood continues his recovery from a knee issue that required surgery at the end of the 2025 home season. Brydon Carse will cover Archer’s absence during the Sri Lanka tour before the pace leader rejoins the World Cup group.

With a blend of proven stars and bold selections, England’s provisional squad reflects a clear intent to reclaim dominance in T20 cricket. However, Archer’s fitness and the gamble on Tongue could ultimately define whether this squad delivers on the biggest stage in 2026.

England squad for T20s in Sri Lanka and World Cup: Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Jofra Archer (World Cup only), Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse (Sri Lanka tour only), Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Phil Salt, Josh Tongue, Luke Wood.

England squad for ODIs in Sri Lanka: Harry Brook, Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Jacob Bethell, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Sam Curran, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Jamie Overton, Adil Rashid, Joe Root, Luke Wood.

Also READ: Monty Panesar predicts the semifinalists of T20 World Cup 2026

As Indian cricket reflects on a landmark 2025 filled with transition, experimentation, and explosive performances, former off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has offered his verdict on the two players who defined the year for the national team. Speaking on his YouTube channel, Ashwin highlighted explosive opener as India’s breakout batting star and top-quality spinner as the most impactful bowler, underlining how both players have reshaped India’s white-ball identity heading into a crucial World Cup cycle.

Ravichandran Ashwin terms young opener as rare X-factor star

Ashwin reserved special praise for Abhishek Sharma, calling 2025 not just a breakthrough year but the arrival of a rare X-factor player for India. The left-handed opener enjoyed a phenomenal run in T20Is, piling up 859 runs in 21 matches at an average of 42.95 and a breathtaking strike rate of 193.46. His tally included a century and five half-centuries, numbers that reflect both consistency and carnage.

“It’s not just the arrival of Abhishek Sharma; it’s probably the arrival of India’s next-generation X-factor player. If there is one player who I have to name who had the best year for India in 2025, it has to be him because he has batted so well,” said Ashwin on his YouTube channel.

According to Ashwin, what separates Abhishek from other attacking batters is the way he has redefined India’s approach in the powerplay. Rather than merely providing quick starts, the youngster has imposed himself from ball one, forcing bowling sides into defensive modes early in the innings. Ashwin described this shift as a reimagination of India’s powerplay batting template, something the team had been searching for in recent years.

While firmly established in T20Is, Ashwin expressed his desire to see the opener tested in ODIs, believing his fearless strokeplay could translate well to the 50-over format. Ashwin went a step further by projecting Abhishek as a frontrunner for India’s men’s cricketer of the year, a bold statement that underscores the scale of his impact in 2025.

“He has reimagined India’s powerplay batting and has been exceptional. I would love to see him in the ODI format as well. I think his red-ball credentials will be worked upon. I believe he will probably be the men’s team player of the year,” the Chennai-born added.

Also WATCH: Abhishek Sharma makes surprise appearance at Punjabi singer AP Dhillon’s Jaipur concert

Ashwin labels spin sensation as a huge MVP for India

While Abhishek lit up stadiums with the bat, Ashwin identified Varun Chakravarthy as India’s standout bowler of the year. Terming him a “huge MVP,” Ashwin highlighted how Chakravarthy consistently delivered whenever the team turned to him, often breaking partnerships and choking scoring rates in the middle overs.

Ashwin pointed out that Varun’s greatest strength lies in his unpredictability. Despite the growing familiarity of mystery spin in T20 cricket, batters have continued to struggle against him, finding it difficult to read his variations off the hand. This ability, Ashwin believes, will be central to India’s ambitions at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.

“I will pick Varun Chakravarthy as India’s bowler of the year. He was a huge MVP. Whenever the team used him, he showed that X-factor. People have found it hard to pick him. His fortunes will be very key to India’s chances at the 2026 T20 World Cup as well. Secondly, he is a T20 bowler,” explained Ashwin.

Beyond the numbers, Ashwin dwelled on Chakravarthy’s remarkable journey of reinvention. After being sidelined from the national setup, the spinner went back to the grind, bowling in lower divisions in Chennai and seeking opportunities as a net bowler. His performances in the Tamil Nadu Premier League played a key role in his resurgence, showcasing his skills to scouts and selectors once again.

“He was out of the side, then he reinvented himself and came back, and now he is at the top of the T20I rankings. He started mystery bowling, bowled in the fifth division in Chennai, then asked for a chance in net bowling, came back and bowled well, and showed all the scouts how he bowled in the TNPL (Tamil Nadu Premier League). It has been a journey to remember,” Ashwin added further.

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