In the electrifying 11th match of BBL|15 on December 26, 2025, at Sydney Cricket Ground, Melbourne Stars crushed Sydney Sixers by seven wickets with 15 balls to spare, chasing down 145 in just 17.3 overs. Stars captain Marcus Stoinis opted to field first, setting the tone for a clinical performance that propelled the table-toppers to their third straight win. Sam Harper‘s unbeaten 110 off 60 balls, laced with 12 fours and six massive sixes, earned him Player of the Match honours in a Boxing Day blockbuster.​

BBL|15: Melbourne Stars’ bowling stranglehold dismantles Sydney Sixers

Melbourne Stars’ bowlers delivered a masterclass, restricting Sydney Sixers to 144 all out in 20 overs at a run rate of just 7.20. Tom Curran spearheaded the attack with 3-26 from four overs, including the early scalp of Babar Azam for 2 in the second over and Daniel Hughes for 60, who anchored with eight fours and a six before falling at 90 runs in the 13th over. Peter Siddle claimed 3-23, mopping up Moises Henriques (18), Jordan Silk (12), and Joel Davies (8), while Marcus Stoinis (2-25) and Haris Rauf (1-37) chipped in to trigger a middle-order collapse—losing five wickets for 34 runs between overs 15 and 19.​

Powerplay yielded only 22-1, with Hughes’ fifty off 34 balls providing brief hope, but the Sixers stuttered post-drinks at 76-2 after 10 overs, reaching 100 in 14.2 overs amid a batting Powerplay that cost 21-3. Ben Manenti‘s run-out at 144 sealed the innings, hampered by slow over-rate penalties forcing extra fielders inside the circle late on, exposing vulnerabilities on a SCG pitch favouring disciplined lines.​

Also WATCH: Tom Curran knocks over Jason Sangha’s stumps with an absolute ripper in BBL|15

BBL|15: Sam Harper’s explosive century seals emphatic chase against Sydney Sixers

Harper unleashed fury in the chase, remaining not out on 110 from 60 balls at a staggering 183.33 strike rate, smashing his century off 50 deliveries with 11 fours and six sixes. After Joe Clarke‘s golden duck off Sean Abbott in the second ball, Harper and Campbell Kellaway raced to 55-1 by the seventh over, Harper blasting fifty off 28 balls including a 50-run stand in 28 balls during Powerplay (30-1).​

Kellaway (14) departed at 55, but Harper-Jonathan Merlo added fifty in 42 balls, surging past 100 in 12.1 overs before Merlo holed out for 14 at 139. Tom Curran (2*) guided home the two needed, with Joel Davies’ 2-16 the lone Sixers highlight amid wayward lines from Kane Richardson (0-41 off two). Harper’s onslaught not only avenged prior Sixers clashes but solidified Stars’ ladder lead, signalling title credentials in BBL|15.

Three wins in three matches, The Melbourne Stars remain undefeated in BBL 15 ⚡#BBL2025 #MelbourneStars pic.twitter.com/u2dteySCrQ

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 26, 2025

Also READ: Tom Curran’s fiery three-wicket haul propels Melbourne Stars to an emphatic victory over Adelaide Strikers in BBL|15

India continued their dominance in the T20I series against Sri Lanka, sealing an unassailable 3-0 lead with a commanding eight-wicket victory in the third match at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday. The hosts once again followed a familiar blueprint, clinical bowling up front followed by a ruthless chase. Sri Lanka were kept to a modest total after losing wickets at regular intervals, leaving India with a straightforward target. The chase never looked in doubt as India cruised home with 40 deliveries to spare, underlining the gulf between the two sides in the series so far.

Renuka Thakur and Deepti Sharma script Sri Lanka’s batting collapse in 3rd T20I

Renuka Singh Thakur (4/21) made an immediate impact with the new ball, swinging it sharply and unsettling Sri Lanka’s top order. Hasini Perera provided early resistance with a brisk 25, including a couple of boundaries and an audacious scoop, but India quickly tightened the screws. Deepti Sharma broke the opening stand by dismissing Chamari Athapaththu, who struggled to get going and perished trying to force the pace.

Renuka then delivered the decisive blows in quick succession, first removing the in-form Perera before completing a sharp caught-and-bowled to dismiss Harshitha Samarawickrama. Her spell reduced Sri Lanka to 32/3 and effectively knocked the wind out of their innings. She struck again later to trap Nilakshika Silva leg-before, finishing with a memorable comeback performance. Deepti, meanwhile, continued her remarkable consistency, picking up 3/18 and equalling Megan Schutt’s record as the highest wicket-taker in women’s T20Is with her 151st scalp. Although Kavisha Dilhari and Imesha Dulani added 40 runs, Deepti ensured Sri Lanka never escaped, restricting them to 112/7, well below par on the surface.

Renuka Singh Thakur runs through Sri Lanka! ⚡

A match-winning 4-fer crowns her Player of the Match in the 3rd T20I 🏆🔥#Cricket #INDWvSLW #RenukaSingh #India #3rdT20I pic.twitter.com/ooTI0Di1Jw

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) December 26, 2025

Also READ: ICC Women’s T20I Rankings: Deepti Sharma dethrones Annabel Sutherland to become No. 1 bowler

Shafali Verma’s fireworks seal the deal for India in style

Chasing a modest target, Shafali Verma turned the contest into a one-sided affair with another breathtaking display at the top of the order. After three initial dot balls, the explosive opener changed gears instantly, dancing down the track to launch an 83-metre six over long-off and setting the tone for the chase. From there, she barely put a foot wrong, timing the ball sweetly and punishing anything loose.

Shafali smashed an unbeaten 79, laced with 11 boundaries and three towering sixes, registering her second consecutive half-century and making a mockery of the target. Spinner Kavisha Dilhari briefly slowed India’s progress by dismissing Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues, but the outcome was never in doubt. Shafali fittingly finished the chase with a boundary, capping off a dominant all-round performance and confirming India’s supremacy in the series with two matches still to play.

🔥 SHAFALI STORM CONTINUES! 🔥🇮🇳

Back-to-back blazing fifties for Shafali Verma against Sri Lanka! 💪💥

69* in the 2nd T20I, followed by an unbeaten 79* in the 3rd – pure dominance at the top! ⚡🏏#Cricket #ShafaliVerma #3rdT20I #INDWvSLW #India pic.twitter.com/HNhQ0fQ8tE

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) December 26, 2025

🔥 UNSTOPPABLE INDIA WOMEN! 🇮🇳🏏

Series wrapped up with authority as India secure a 3–0 T20I lead with two games remaining 💪

Shafali Verma’s fluent 79* guides India to an emphatic 8-wicket win ⚡

Scorecard: https://t.co/ZBFewLWkBx#Cricket #INDWvSLW #India #3rdT20I… pic.twitter.com/TgmA3lEMiw

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) December 26, 2025

Also READ: IND-W vs SL-W: Smriti Mandhana breaks Suzie Bates’ record in T20Is

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

Australian fast bowler Scott Boland, who emerged as one of the chief architects of India’s downfall during the most recent Border-Gavaskar Trophy, has opened up about the toughest batting challenge he has faced in his Test career. Speaking ahead of the high-profile Boxing Day Ashes 2025-26 Test against England at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, Boland reflected on the batter who consistently tested his skills and forced him to rethink his plans.

Scott Boland shares the toughest batter he’s bowled to and his most memorable Test wicket

The Melbourne-born seamer Boland was instrumental in Australia reclaiming the Border-Gavaskar Trophy, producing match-defining spells and finishing among the leading wicket-takers despite featuring in only three Tests. His ability to exploit home conditions and apply relentless pressure made him one of India’s most difficult opponents during the series. Only later did Boland reveal that the batter who troubled him the most was India’s Rishabh Pant. The Australian explained that Pant’s unpredictability sets him apart from most top-level batters, making it extremely difficult for bowlers to settle into a rhythm.

Pant first faced Boland during India’s tour of Australia at the end of 2024. Although Boland dismissed the wicketkeeper-batter twice, each contest was a constant battle of adjustments. Despite his limited appearances, Boland ended the series as the third-highest wicket-taker with 21 wickets at an outstanding average of 13.19, underlining his impact. During a recent rapid-fire segment organized by Grassroot Cricket Round, Boland was asked by a junior female cricketer to name the toughest batter he has bowled to. The 36-year-old did not hesitate in his response and elaborated on why the Indian stood out:

“Rishabh Pant from India. He’s someone who’s very unpredictable. Sometimes he slogs you for six, and you bowl the same ball again and he just blocks it. So, he is very hard to bowl to.” Boland said.

In the same interaction, Boland also revealed that his favourite Test wicket was that of Virat Kohli, whom he dismissed in the second innings of the Sydney Test.

Also WATCH: Ashes 2025-26: Josh Tongue stuns Steve Smith with unplayable delivery on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test | AUS vs ENG

Boland’s clinical performance for Australia in the Ashes 2025-26 vs England

In the ongoing Ashes series, Boland has once again proven to be a relentless force for Australia, helping the hosts secure an unassailable 3-0 lead within just 11 days of play. Throughout the first three Tests, the Victorian seamer has been remarkably consistent, claiming 11 wickets at a clinical average of 18.14 across 90.5 overs.

His campaign began with a decisive impact in the first Test at Perth, where he dismantled England’s middle order in the second innings with figures of 4/33, removing key batters like Ben Duckett and Harry Brook in a devastating spell. Boland continued his disciplined work in Adelaide, providing crucial breakthroughs in the third Test with match figures of 3/45 to help retain the urn. His economy rate remains a standout at 3.40, reflecting his ability to build immense pressure by rarely missing his length.

Entering the Boxing Day Test at the MCG, the scene of his legendary debut, Boland has already made his mark on day one by trapping Harry Brook LBW for 41 and other batters including Jamie Smith and Will Jacks. As of the fourth Test, he sits as the series’ third-highest wicket-taker, trailing only Mitchell Starc and Brydon Carse. With 14 wickets now tallied following the first day in Melbourne, Boland remains the ultimate horses for courses specialist in Australian conditions.

Also WATCH: Ashes 2025-26: Brydon Carse’ breathtaking run out of Cameron Green steals the show on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test match | AUS vs ENG

India‘s cricket landscape gained a shining beacon as 14-year-old prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi received the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar from President Droupadi Murmu at Rashtrapati Bhavan on December 25, 2025, during the Veer Baal Diwas celebrations.

Vaibhav Suryavanshi receives Bal Puraskar from President Droupadi Murmu

The left-handed opener from Bihar, born on March 27, 2011, in Tajpur village of Samastipur district, skipped a Vijay Hazare Trophy match to attend the ceremony, where the President lauded his record-shattering exploits in a “highly competitive world of cricket,” urging other children to emulate him. Following the event, Suryavanshi met Prime Minister Narendra Modi, marking another milestone in his meteoric rise amid national recognition for youthful excellence in sports.​

President Murmu, while presenting the award, praised his commitment and achievements, saying that such young talents “inspire hope for a brighter future in Indian sports.” PM too, expressed confidence that Vaibhav will “shine on the global stage.” This dual recognition underscores the government’s support toward nurturing young sporting excellence.

Here’s the video:

Meet the newest recipient of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar, the highest civilian honor for children. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 👏👏💗 pic.twitter.com/2gr8N64ToP

— Rajasthan Royals (@rajasthanroyals) December 26, 2025

Also READ: Top 5 youngest centurions in List A cricket ft. Vaibhav Suryavanshi

Record-breaking exploits of Suryavanshi fuel national pride

Suryavanshi’s journey from Bihar’s dusty fields to global headlines stems from relentless family support—his father Sanjeev sold farmland to fund training at academies in Samastipur and Patna, while his mother prepared early meals for gruelling 5-6 hour sessions. In the Vijay Hazare Trophy on December 23, 2025, he blazed 190 off 84 balls (16 fours, 15 sixes) against Arunachal Pradesh, claiming the fastest List A 150 in 54 balls—eclipsing AB de Villiers—and becoming the youngest List A centurion at 14 years and 272 days with a 36-ball ton. Earlier, his unbeaten 108 off 61 balls (7 fours, 7 sixes) versus Maharashtra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on December 2 made him the tournament’s youngest centurion.​

His T20 fireworks include a 35-ball IPL century (101 off 38) for Rajasthan Royals against Gujarat Titans in 2025, the fastest by an Indian and youngest T20 ton ever, plus three T20 hundreds by age 14. In the U-19 Asia Cup, he hammered 171 off 95 balls (14 sixes) against UAE, shattering youth ODI records for most sixes in an innings and tournament. Now set to join India U-19 for the World Cup in Zimbabwe starting January 15, 2026, skipping remaining Vijay Hazare games, Suryavanshi embodies grit that redefines prodigies. His feats—cleared of age disputes via medical tests—ignite dreams for small-town talents, blending explosive power with maturity that experts predict will propel him to senior stardom

Also WATCH: Unsportsmanlike scenes as Pakistan fans jeer India’s teenage batting sensation after U-19 Asia Cup setback

SA20 have officially announced their lineup of match officials for the upcoming 2025-26 season, featuring a high-caliber mix of international veterans and rising stars. The selection underscores the league’s commitment to world-class officiating as they prepare for another exciting season of the popular tournament.

Global experience leads the way

The contingent is headlined by ICC Elite Panel Umpires Allahudien Paleker and Adrian Holdstock. Paleker, the reigning Cricket South Africa (CSA) Umpire of the Year with 161 T20s under his belt, brings immense technical expertise to the tournament.

Adding significant weight to the panel is the return of Marais Erasmus. The former ICC Umpire of the Year, renowned for his calm demeanor and precision, brings the experience of 267 international matches to the group.

A diverse and international panel

The full panel consists of 18 umpires and six match referees who will oversee the six-team competition at iconic grounds including Boland Park, Centurion, Kingsmead, Newlands, St George’s Park, and the Wanderers.

In a move to foster global collaboration, the panel also features Ian Blackwell from England as part of an Umpire Exchange Programme. Furthermore, the league welcomes Abdoellaah Steenkamp, the current CSA Umpires’ Umpire of the Year.

Also READ: SA20 2026: TV channels, live streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, Pakistan, USA, UK & other countries

Complete list of umpires at SA20 2026

Lauren Agenbag, Ian Blackwell (ENG), Marais Erasmus, Mazizi Gampu, Siphelele Gasa, Babalo Gcuma, Stephen Harris, Adrian Holdstock, Arno Jacobs, Bongani Jele, Thomas Mokorosi, Andre Olivier, Allahudien Paleker, Dennis Smith, Abongile Sodumo, Abdoellaah Steenkamp, Brad White, Warren Wyngaard.

Match Referees for SA20

Rudi Birkenstock, Shandre Fritz, Clifford Isaacs, Barry Lambson, Laurence Matroos, Gerrie Pienaar.

Also READ: SA20 2026 Squads: Players list and captains of all six teams

Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya demonstrated remarkable restraint during a tense encounter with fans outside a Mumbai restaurant on Christmas Eve. After enjoying a celebratory dinner with girlfriend Maheika Sharma, Pandya politely assisted her into their car while accommodating selfie requests from several enthusiastic supporters.

Fan expresses frustration at Hardik Pandya for not accepting selfie request

As the crowd thickened, one frustrated fan, unable to approach due to security and the rush, shouted the abusive phrase “Bhaad mein jao” (go to hell), yet Pandya walked away without a glance or retort.​

The viral video of the incident has sparked widespread admiration online for Pandya’s maturity, especially as a high-profile athlete under constant public glare. Social media users hailed his decision to prioritize dignity over confrontation, noting his polite remark earlier—”Le toh liya, aur kitna lega?” (You’ve taken photos, how many more?)—which underscored his patience before the escalation. This episode highlights the dual-edged nature of stardom in cricket-mad India, where fans’ passion can veer into entitlement, testing celebrities’ emotional control.​

Here’s the video:

𝗚𝘂𝘆𝘀, 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗶𝘀 𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗧𝗢𝗢 𝗠𝗨𝗖𝗛 🤬🙏

A fan tried to approach Hardik Pandya for a selfie but couldn’t get close.

𝗙𝗮𝗻: 𝗕𝗛𝗔𝗔𝗗 𝗠𝗘 𝗝𝗔𝗢 (Go to Hell) 😡

𝗛𝗮𝗿𝗱𝗶𝗸: Either didn’t hear it, or heard it and chose to ignore.

This incident happened… pic.twitter.com/B929w11Iwi

— Jara (@JARA_Memer) December 25, 2025

Also WATCH: Hardik Pandya wins hearts as he comforts cameraman hit by his six during fifth T20I clash

Pandya’s explosive form seals India-South Africa series glory

Pandya’s off-field poise follows his starring role in India’s dominant 3-1 T20I series victory over South Africa, capped by a blistering display in the fifth match at Ahmedabad’s Narendra Modi Stadium. Entering at No. 5 after quick wickets, he unleashed immediate mayhem, smashing a six off his first ball that struck a cameraman, then plundering 27 runs off George Linde’s over with three sixes and two fours. His unbeaten 63 off 25 balls, featuring five fours and five sixes at a strike rate of 252, propelled India to 231/5, overwhelming South Africa’s chase despite Quinton de Kock‘s 65.​

The highlight arrived with his half-century in just 16 balls—the second-fastest by an Indian in T20Is, behind only Yuvraj Singh‘s iconic 12-ball effort from 2007—earning him Player of the Match honours. Celebrating the milestone with a towering six, Pandya blew flying kisses toward the VIP stands where Maheika watched, blending professional fireworks with a tender personal gesture that further endeared him to fans. Earlier in the series opener, his unbeaten 59 off 28 balls rescued India from early trouble for a 175/6 total, setting the tone for success.​

Pandya’s series haul also etched him into history as India’s most frequent T20I performer with a fifty-plus score and at least one wicket (four instances, surpassing Yuvraj), while reaching 2002 runs and 100 wickets overall. With T20 World Cup 2026 looming and his all-round prowess peaking, Pandya remains indispensable to India’s white-ball ambitions under Suryakumar Yadav.

Also WATCH: Unsportsmanlike scenes as Pakistan fans jeer India’s teenage batting sensation after U-19 Asia Cup setback

Australia vs England locked horns in the 4th Test of the Ashes 2025-26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26, 2025, with England winning the toss and bowling first. Australia managed 152 all out in 45.2 overs, skittled by England’s pace attack led by Josh Tongue‘s 5/45, before slumping to 110 in 2^nd innings, visitors now trail by 38 runs as the hosts are at 4/0 at the end of the day. Day 1 unfolded amid raw drama on the pitch and an emotional tribute that paused the action.​

Emotional tribute to Shane Warne on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test

At exactly 3:50pm local time, the massive MCG crowd rose in unison, tipping their hats in Shane Warne‘s signature style—a poignant nod to his Australian Test cap number 350. Cricket legends including Ricky Ponting, Michael Vaughan, and Ian Botham joined fans, creating a sea of hats across the stands, with Warne’s children Jackson and Brooke leading the ceremony. This tradition, started post-Warne’s 2022 passing, featured a special video montage of his career highlights, halting play briefly as big screens replayed his magic.​

England’s Barmy Army had pledged this homage earlier, transcending Ashes rivalry to honour the leg-spin maestro who tormented their batters. Health stations around the ground promoted heart checks, tying into Warne’s legacy foundation. The moment drew global acclaim, with social media buzzing over the “beautiful scenes” amid a record Ashes crowd.​

Here’s the video:

A record #Ashes crowd tip their cap to Shane Warne at 3:50pm, a nod to his cap number being 350. pic.twitter.com/ML38iLQ5D9

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) December 26, 2025

Also WATCH: Josh Tongue stuns Steve Smith with unplayable delivery on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test | AUS vs ENG

Warne’s legendary Test legacy

Warne revolutionized leg-spin, claiming 708 Test wickets—the most by any bowler until surpassed—across 145 matches from 1992 to 2007, with an average of 25.41. He snared 37 five-wicket hauls and 10 ten-wicket matches, including a career-best 8/71, tormenting England most with 195 dismissals in 72 Tests at 23.25 average. Warne’s flair peaked in Ashes battles, like his “Ball of the Century” to Mike Gatting in 1993, reviving spin bowling’s artistry.​

Debuting as Australia’s 350th capped player, he took 195 wickets at the MCG alone, blending whopping accuracy with showmanship. Post-retirement, Warne’s commentary wit endeared him further, while statues and a stand at MCG immortalize him. His void lingers, but tributes like this ensure the “King of Spin” endures.

Also WATCH: Brydon Carse’ breathtaking run out of Cameron Green steals the show on Day 1 of Boxing Day Test match | AUS vs ENG

MI Cape Town launch their title defence at home against a revamped Durban Super Giants in a mouth-watering SA20 2025-26 opener at Newlands, with batters set to enjoy a true surface under lights.​

MI Cape Town enter as defending champions and begin Season 4 at their Newlands fortress under Rashid Khan, looking to set the tone early in front of home support.​ Durban Super Giants, who finished bottom last season, start afresh with a significantly strengthened core and an impressive 3-1 head-to-head edge over MICT in T20s.

MICT vs DSG, SA20 2025-26: Match details

• Date and Time: December 26 (Friday); 9:00 pm IST / 03:30 pm GMT / 5:30 pm Local
• Venue: Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town

Head-to-Head Record in SA20 2025-26:

Matches played: 5 | MI Cape Town won: 1 | Durban Super Giants won: 3 | No result/Tied: 1

Newlands Cricket Ground Pitch Report

The Newlands pitch in Cape Town typically offers early assistance to fast bowlers with swing and bounce during the first few overs, but it soon settles into a true surface ideal for stroke play. Batters can trust the bounce and play through the line once the shine fades. Spinners come into play as the match progresses, especially under dry conditions. The average first-innings score here ranges between 160 and 175, making it a balanced wicket that rewards both disciplines. Given the evening conditions, chasing teams have enjoyed more success, so captains winning the toss often prefer to bowl first.

Squads

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

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

Also READ: SA20 2026: Complete squads of all six teams after the players’ auction

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

Case 1:

• MI Cape Town wins the toss and bowls first
• Durban Super Giants’ powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
• Durban Super Giants’ total score: 155-165

Case 2:

• Durban Super Giants wins the toss and bowls first
• MI Cape Town’ powerplay score: 55-65 (6 overs)
• MI Cape Town’ total score: 170-180

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: THIS IPL team to send their bowlers to Durban for training in SA20

The SA20 2025-26 season marks the fourth edition of South Africa‘s premier T20 league, and it promises another high-octane summer of franchise cricket. Scheduled to run from December 26, 2025, to January 25, 2026, the tournament will once again feature six franchises, all backed by IPL parent groups, competing in a double round-robin format followed by the playoffs.

This season carries extra intrigue as MI Cape Town begin their title defence after ending Sunrisers Eastern Cape’s two-year dominance last year. With star-studded squads, experienced international captains, and exciting young South African talent, SA20 2026 is shaping up to be one of the most competitive editions yet.

Key players to watch out for in SA20

SA20 2026 will feature some of the biggest names in world cricket, capable of turning games on their own. Rashid Khan remains MI Cape Town’s trump card with his match-winning leg-spin and handy late-order hitting, while Jos Buttler and Heinrich Klaasen add explosive firepower to Durban’s Super Giants. Sunrisers Eastern Cape will once again bank on pace duo Anrich Nortje and Marco Jansen, while David Miller leads Paarl Royals with his proven finishing pedigree.

For Pretoria Capitals, the spotlight will be firmly on Andre Russell and young sensation Dewald Brevis, both capable of producing game-changing moments. Together, these stars ensure SA20 2026 delivers elite-quality cricket from start to finish.

Full squads and captains of each team in SA20 2026

Durban’s Super Giants

Captain: Aiden Markram

Squad: Noor Ahmad, Marques Ackerman, David Bedingham, Eathan Bosch, Jos Buttler, Gerald Coetzee, Devon Conway, Tony de Zorzi, Daryn Dupavillon, Dayyaan Galiem, Evan Jones, Heinrich Klaasen, Kwena Maphaka, Sunil Narine, Andile Simelane, Gysbert Wege, David Wiese, Kane Williamson

Overview: Durban boast one of the most balanced squads in the league, combining elite international batters with proven all-rounders and a formidable spin attack.

Joburg Super Kings

Captain: Faf du Plessis

Squad: Jarren Bacher, Nandre Burger, Matthew de Villiers, Donovan Ferreira, Dian Forrester, Richard Gleeson, Akeal Hosein, Duan Jansen, Rivaldo Moonsamy, Wiaan Mulder, Shubham Ranjane, Rilee Rossouw, Janco Smit, Steve Stolk, Prenelan Subrayen, Imran Tahir, Neil Timmers, Reece Topley, James Vince, Dan Worrall

Overview: Led by the ever-reliable du Plessis, the Super Kings lean heavily on experience, particularly in their bowling unit and middle order.

MI Cape Town

Captain: Rashid Khan

Squad: Corbin Bosch, Trent Boult, Reeza Hendricks, Karim Janat, Thomas Kaber, Dan Lategan, George Linde, Tristan Luus, Tom Moores, Dane Piedt, Nicholas Pooran, Dwaine Pretorius, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Jason Smith, Jacques Snyman, Rassie van der Dussen, Tiaan van Vuuren

Overview: The defending champions are stacked once again, with world-class bowlers and explosive batting depth making them strong title contenders.

Also READ: THIS IPL team to send their bowlers to Durban for training in SA20

Paarl Royals

Captain: David Miller

Squad: Ottneil Baartman, Okhule Cele, Bjorn Fortuin, Vishen Halambage, Rubin Hermann, Daniel Lawrence, Keagan Lion-Cachet, Eshan Malinga, Nqobani Mokoena, Gudakesh Motie, Nqaba Peter, Delano Potgieter, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Sikandar Raza, Thomas Rew, Asa Tribe, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Kyle Verreynne, Hardus Viljoen

Overview: Paarl Royals have opted for versatility, with multiple spin options and all-rounders capable of adapting to different match situations.

Pretoria Capitals

Captain: Keshav Maharaj

Squad: Dewald Brevis, Roston Chase, Jordan Cox, Junaid Dawood, Keith Dudgeon, Connor Esterhuizen, Shai Hope, Wihan Lubbe, Sibonelo Makhanya, Tymal Mills, Lungi Ngidi, Bryce Parsons, Gideon Peters, Meeka-eel Prince, Andre Russell, Sherfane Rutherford, Will Smeed, Daniel Smith, Lizaad Williams, Codi Yusuf

Overview: Pretoria Capitals bring serious firepower, with match-winners like Russell and Brevis complemented by a strong pace and spin mix.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape

Captain: Tristan Stubbs

Squad: Jonny Bairstow, Matthew Breetzke, James Coles, Quinton de Kock, Allah Mohammad Ghazanfar, Lewis Gregory, Jordan Hermann, Marco Jansen, CJ King, JP King, Patrick Kruger, Adam Milne, Senuran Muthusamy, Anrich Nortje, Taridu Rathnayake, Lutho Sipamla, Beyers Swanepoel, Mitchell van Buuren, Chris Wood

Overview: Former champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape remain a formidable outfit, blending explosive batting with one of the most intimidating fast-bowling attacks in the league.

Also READ: SA20 2026: TV channels, live streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, Pakistan, USA, UK & other countries