The Indian Women’s cricket team returned to action for the first time since their historic ODI World Cup triumph, and they did so with a resounding statement. On a humid Sunday evening at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam, the focus wasn’t just on the team’s victory, but on a monumental individual milestone. Smriti Mandhana, the vice-captain and batting mainstay, once again proved why she is considered one of the most elite players in modern cricket by etching her name into the history books.

Smriti Mandhana becomes fastest to reach 4000 runs in T20Is

During India’s chase of 122, Mandhana walked out with her usual grace. Needing just 18 runs to reach a career-defining landmark, she played a steady knock of 25 runs off 25 balls. In doing so, she became the first Indian cricketer—and only the second woman globally—to surpass 4,000 runs in T20 Internationals.

She joined New Zealand legend Suzie Bates (4,716 runs) as the only two women to breach this barrier, further distancing herself from teammates like Harmanpreet Kaur (3,669 runs). What makes this feat even more remarkable is the efficiency of her scoring. Mandhana reached the 4,000-run milestone in just 3,227 balls, making her the fastest in history to achieve this speacial feat (surpassing Bates, who took 3,675 balls). By reaching this target nearly 450 balls faster than the previous record holder, Mandhana has solidified her reputation as the most efficient run-scorer in the history of women’s T20Is.

Also READ: IND-W vs SL-W 2025, T20I series | Broadcast, Live Streaming details | When and where to watch in India, USA, Canada and Sri Lanka

India registers a dominating win in Vizag

While Mandhana provided the historic moment, the match was a clinical display of team effort. India opted to bowl first, and the bowlers immediately put the squeeze on the Sri Lankan lineup. Young pacer Kranti Gaud provided the massive breakthrough by dismissing Sri Lankan captain Chamari Athapaththu early.

Deepti Sharma led the spin attack with a masterful spell, finishing with figures of 1/20, including a maiden over. Debutant Vaishnavi Sharma also impressed, showing great composure to finish with an economical 0/16 in her 4 overs. Despite a fighting 39 from Vishmi Gunaratne, Sri Lanka was restricted to a sub-par total of 121/6 in their 20 overs.

The chase was never in doubt, thanks to a “Player of the Match” performance by Jemimah Rodrigues. After the early fall of Shafali Verma, Mandhana and Rodrigues stitched together a vital 54-run partnership. Following Mandhana’s dismissal in the 9th over, Jemimah shifted gears effortlessly. She remained unbeaten on 69 off 44 balls*, including 10 elegant boundaries as India won the match by 8 wickets.

Also READ: Jemimah Rodrigues, bowlers propel India to comprehensive win over Sri Lanka in 1st T20I

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

Indian all-rounder Shardul Thakur, fondly known by fans as ‘Lord Shardul,’ has embarked on a beautiful new chapter of his life. On December 21, 2025, the cricketer took to social media to announce the arrival of his first child, a baby boy, with his wife Mittali Parulkar. The news came as a delightful surprise to the cricketing fraternity, as the couple had kept the pregnancy private for the duration of the nine months. Shardul’s announcement quickly went viral, drawing immense love and warm wishes from teammates and fans.

Shardul Thakur and his wife Mittali Parulkar welcome baby boy with heartfelt announcement

Shardul and Mittali, who tied the knot in a grand ceremony on February 28, 2023, surprised the world by revealing they had been expecting their first child in complete privacy. The announcement was made via a touching Instagram story that featured a poster declaring, “We are blessed with a Baby Boy!”

Shardul paired this with a deeply emotional message that resonated with his followers: “Hidden beneath parents’ hearts, protected by silence, faith, and endless love. Our little secret is finally here. Welcome, baby boy, the dream we held quietly for 9 beautiful months.” This poetic reveal highlighted the couple’s choice to cherish their journey away from the public eye until the very end.

Mittali, a successful entrepreneur and professional baker from Kolhapur, has been a pillar of support throughout Shardul’s career, and the arrival of their son marks a new peak in their relationship. The cricketing community, including his India and Mumbai teammates, flooded the comments with congratulations for the “Junior Lord.” The timing of the birth is particularly special, as it falls during a period of transition and homecoming for the pacer. By sharing their “little secret” so authentically, the couple has invited fans into a rare, intimate moment of their lives, celebrating a dream that was nurtured with patience and devotion throughout the year 2025.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli shows class by signing net bowler’s iPhone after practice session in Alibaug

Shardul’s homecoming and high stakes for IPL 2026

While Shardul celebrates his new role as a father, his professional life is reaching a significant turning point as he returns to his roots with the Mumbai Indians. Having been traded from Lucknow Super Giants back to his home franchise for the IPL 2026 season, Shardul is set to bolster an MI squad looking for versatility and experience. Head coach Mahela Jayawardene has already expressed high expectations, noting that Shardul’s ability to swing the ball and provide crucial cameos with the bat offers a “different structure” to the team’s lineup.

Shardul, who captains Mumbai in the domestic circuit, has a storied history of performing under pressure, boasting 107 wickets and a reputation for breaking partnerships at critical moments. Despite being out of the national side recently, his leadership in the Ranji Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy proves he remains a fierce competitor. As he prepares to don the Blue and Gold again, the motivation of playing for his newborn son and his home city is expected to drive him toward a standout performance in the upcoming season. The Mumbai Indians‘ warm welcome of “Junior Lord” further cements the emotional connection Shardul shares with the franchise as he seeks to lead them back to championship glory.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Here’s how much price Shardul Thakur, Sherfane Rutherford and Arjun Tendulkar were traded for

The Big Bash League 2025-26 season continues with a high-stakes encounter as the Sydney Thunder host the Brisbane Heat for the 9th match of BBL|15 on December 22 at the Manuka Oval in Canberra. The Thunder are currently desperate for their first win of the season after suffering two consecutive losses, including a heavy defeat in the Sydney Smash. In contrast, the Brisbane Heat arrive with massive momentum following a world-record chase of 258 against the Perth Scorchers.

ST vs BH, BBL|15: Match details

• Date and Time: December 22 (Monday); 1:45 pm IST / 8:15 am GMT / 7:15 pm Local
• Venue: Manuka Oval, Canberra
• Head-to-Head Record in BBL: Matches played: 22 | Brisbane Heat won: 14 | Sydney Thunder won: 07 | No result/Tied: 1

Manuka Oval Pitch Report

The Manuka Oval is widely regarded as one of the best batting tracks in Australia, offering a consistent and reliable bounce that allows players to play their shots with confidence. As this is the first game of the season at this venue, the pitch is expected to be fresh and full of runs. While the fast bowlers can find some early movement under the lights, the relatively small boundaries and quick outfield favor high-scoring matches. Historically, chasing has been the preferred strategy here, with the team batting second winning a majority of the recent T20 fixtures. Consequently, the captain winning the bat flip will likely elect to bowl first.

Sydney Thunder vs Brisbane Heat: Team dynamics and key players

Sydney Thunder: The Thunder’s campaign is already at a crossroads. They will be heavily reliant on David Warner to provide a spark at the top, alongside the steady Cameron Bancroft. The middle order features the explosive Sam Billings and the all-round capabilities of Shadab Khan, who has been their most consistent performer so far. Their bowling attack, led by the left-arm angle of Reece Topley and the death-bowling expertise of Daniel Sams, must find a way to contain a red-hot Heat lineup that has been clearing boundaries at will.

Brisbane Heat: The Heat are flying high after their record-breaking exploits. Matt Renshaw and Jack Wildermuth are in scintillating form, both coming off centuries in their last outing. Even with the injury to Nathan McSweeney, the Heat’s depth is impressive, with Tom Alsop likely to slot into the middle order. Their bowling unit, spearheaded by Xavier Bartlett and the pace of Shaheen Shah Afridi, provides a lethal edge. The Heat’s ability to absorb early pressure and accelerate without panic has made them a dangerous side to defend against.

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

ST vs BH, BBL|15: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Sydney Thunder wins the toss and bowls first
• Brisbane Heat’s powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• Brisbane Heat’s total score: 175-195

Case 2:

• Brisbane Heat wins the toss and bowls first
• Sydney Thunder’s powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
• Sydney Thunder’s total score: 160-180

Match result: Brisbane Heat to win the contest.

Also READ: Big Bash League 2025-26: Complete squads of all 8 teams in the BBL|15

In the midst of his intense preparations for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 , India’s superstar batter Virat Kohli continues to prove why he is as much a hero off the field as he is on it.

Virat Kohli’s heartwarming gesture at Alibaug nets for a net bowler

Following a rigorous net session at the Reliance Jio Stadium in Alibaug on Sunday, December 21, the 37-year-old batting icon took time out to interact with the local net bowlers who had been assisting his training. In a video that quickly went viral across social media, one star-struck bowler, Ritwik Pathak, handed his iPhone to Kohli, who graciously signed the back of the device with a permanent marker.

Here’s the video:

Beyond just the autograph, Kohli spent several minutes posing for selfies and sharing words of encouragement with the young athletes, a gesture that turned an ordinary practice day into a lifelong memory for the budding cricketers. This moment of warmth came just days before Kohli returns to the domestic circuit for Delhi, reminding fans that despite his global superstardom and the high-pressure environment of professional sports, he remains deeply connected to the grassroots of the game.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli elevates training intensity ahead of his historic Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 return

Kohli’s intense preparation and technical focus ahead of Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025

Kohli’s decision to train in Alibaug rather than the team’s primary base in Delhi is a calculated move to maintain peak physical and mental conditioning in a private, high-performance environment. During these sessions, the world’s No. 2-ranked ODI batter has been focusing on match-specific drills, particularly his footwork against both high-pace throwdowns and local spinners on turning tracks. He recently gave “Player of the Series” performance against South Africa, where he averaged a staggering 151. The goal is to sustain the rhythm that saw him smash two consecutive centuries in Ranchi and Raipur, ensuring he enters the domestic season with zero rust.

Under the leadership of Rishabh Pant, Kohli is set to feature in Delhi’s opening Group D fixtures at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, a ground where he has achieved legendary status with Royal Challengers Bengaluru. He will lead the batting lineup against Andhra Pradesh on December 24 and Gujarat on December 26, using these high-stakes domestic games as a final rehearsal for India’s international ODI series against New Zealand starting January 11.

By testing his technique against the domestic ‘red-ball’ pacers like Delhi teammates Navdeep Saini and Ishant Sharma in practice, Kohli is ensuring that his transition back to the 50-over format remains seamless. This stint in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, his first in 15 years, is more than a regulatory requirement; it is a strategic step for a man who has already set his sights on being the linchpin of India’s ODI World Cup 2027 campaign.

Also READ: Rishabh Pant to captain Delhi as Virat Kohli makes historic Vijay Hazare Trophy return; squad announced for first two games

New Zealand completed a commanding victory over West Indies at the Bay Oval, delivering a ruthless all-round performance to wrap up the third Test in emphatic fashion. After piling on massive runs across both innings, the hosts unleashed their bowlers on a wearing fifth-day surface to dismiss the visitors cheaply and underline their dominance from start to finish.

Batting masterclass from Devon Conway and Tom Latham lay the foundation

New Zealand set the tone early in the contest with a monumental first-innings total of 575 for 8 declared. The innings was built on patience, control, and classical Test match batting, with Devon Conway standing tall. The left-hander produced a magnificent double century, dictating terms for long periods and draining the West Indies bowlers of confidence.

He found excellent support from captain Tom Latham, who crafted a composed century of his own. Together, they ensured New Zealand remained firmly in control, forcing the visitors into long, exhausting spells in the field. The rest of the batting unit chipped in with valuable contributions, allowing the Kiwis to declare from a position of absolute strength.

Kavem Hodge’s hundred keeps West Indeis in fight

In reply, West Indies showed commendable fight, led by a superb century from Kavem Hodge. Batting with assurance and intent, he countered New Zealand’s disciplined bowling attack and helped his side reach a respectable 420. However, despite that resistance, the visitors were unable to prevent conceding a sizeable first-innings deficit of 155 runs.

New Zealand’s bowlers maintained pressure throughout, ensuring the Windies never truly threatened to match the hosts’ dominance. The lead proved crucial as the match progressed towards its decisive stages.

Conway, Latham sizzle again to give Windies a massive target

With a strong advantage in hand, New Zealand batted with freedom in their second innings, racing to 306 for 2 before declaring. Latham and Conway once again led the charge, this time shifting gears to score brisk centuries that completely took the game away from the West Indies.

Their positive approach stretched the lead rapidly and left the visitors facing an imposing target of 462 runs on a surface beginning to show signs of wear and unpredictability.

Also READ: NZ vs WI: Devon Conway and Tom Latham create Test history with unprecedented twin centuries

Jacob Duffy wreaks havoc as final-day collapse seals the contest

West Indies began the final day with cautious optimism, reaching 87 without loss and briefly entertaining hopes of survival. However, the dismissal of Brandon King (67) proved to be the turning point. A dramatic collapse followed as the visitors slid from 87/0 to 98/5, undoing all the early work in a matter of overs.

Roston Chase soon fell to a sharp delivery from Jacob Duffy, while Shai Hope fought a stubborn rearguard after lunch. His marathon stay ended when he misjudged one from Ajaz Patel and was trapped in front. Tevin Imlach showed grit from one end, but the resistance was short-lived as New Zealand sliced through the tail.

Duffy delivered the final blow by knocking over Jayden Seales to complete a five-wicket haul and bring the match to a decisive close, with West Indies bowled out for just 138, losing the contest by 323 runs. With the win, the hosts clinched the series 2-0.

Here’s how fans reacted:

New Zealand’s bowlers finish the job in Mount Maunganui to claim 12 #WTC27 points and a 2-0 series win 👏#NZvWI 📲 https://t.co/RsAVYUUerk pic.twitter.com/pA62cthcMW

— ICC (@ICC) December 22, 2025

New Zealand dominates again
Win by 323 runs vs West Indies and seal the 3-match series 2-0.
Clinical performance in all departments. 🇳🇿🏏#NZvWI #Ashes2025

— Rustom Imran (@Rustomimran2) December 22, 2025

New Zealand win the Test series 2-0 🏆#cricket #NZvsWI #NewZealand #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/VHG6iBUeT7

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 22, 2025

NEW ZEALAND WON BY 323 RUNS!
Another 5-fer for Duffman!

NZ won the series 2-0 #NZvsWI pic.twitter.com/t2GRyUorhh

— #BackTheBLACKCAPS 🇳🇿 (@KW_Fans436) December 22, 2025

New Zealand’s bowlers finish the job in Mount Maunganui to claim 12 #WTC27 points and a 2-0 series win 👏#NZvWI #Cricket26 pic.twitter.com/EHxJvq7ndB

— Jayant paraste01 (@JayantParaste01) December 22, 2025

🚨 NEW ZEALAND WIN THE TEST SERIES AGAINST WEST INDIES 🚨

– New Zealand defeat West Indies in the 3rd Test to clinch the series 2–0. 🔥🫡 pic.twitter.com/ZHEthS3LOF

— MD Raju 🇮🇳 (@MDRaju_Live) December 22, 2025

New Zealand win the 3rd Test by 323 runs and take the series 2-0.

🇳🇿 NZ 575/8d & 306/2d

🌴 WI 420 & 138, King 67; Duffy 5-42

Scorecard: https://t.co/0mQxtGdGjt pic.twitter.com/qtAK75mVdF

— WIPA (@wiplayers) December 22, 2025

New Zealand win the third Test to take the series 2-0 🏆
It has been 30 years since West Indies last won a Test in New Zealand!#WindiesCricket | #MeninMaroon | #NZvWI | #Gameyaaad pic.twitter.com/I1VirXfKXW

— gameyaaad (@gameyaaad) December 22, 2025

New Zealand’s bowlers finish the job in Mount Maunganui to claim 12 #WTC27 points and a 2-0 series win 👏#NZvWI 📲 https://t.co/7j6FbpJwF0… pic.twitter.com/edqsMIxnle

— R. BARWAL (@r_barwal_) December 22, 2025

🚨 DOMINANT NEW ZEALAND 🚨
🇳🇿 NZ thrashed WI in the Test series:⁰✔️ 2nd Test — won by 9 wickets⁰✔️ 3rd Test — won by 323 runs
A clean 2–0 series win for the Black Caps! 💪🔥#NZvWI #NewZealandCricket #BlackCaps #TestCricket #SeriesWin #CricketTwitter #CricketFans pic.twitter.com/5Zm9izwF4Q

— Sarvesh Pawar (@sarvesh_pawar23) December 22, 2025

Also READ: Top 5 highest opening partnerships for New Zealand in Tests ft. Devon Conway & Tom Latham

Harmanpreet Kaur & Co. kicked off the Sri Lanka Women tour of India 2025 in spectacular fashion, securing a comfortable eight-wicket victory at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Sunday.

Disciplined Indian bowling restricts Sri Lanka to 121

India’s decision to bowl first paid immediate dividends. Kranti Gaud provided the early breakthrough by dismissing the dangerous Sri Lankan captain, Chamari Athapaththu, for 15. While Vishmi Gunaratne played a gritty knock of 39 off 43 balls, she struggled to find consistent support at the other end.

The Indian spinners applied the brakes effectively during the middle overs. Deepti Sharma was the standout performer, conceding just 20 runs in her four overs and claiming the wicket of Hasini Perera. Debutant Vaishnavi Sharma also played a vital role, maintaining an economy rate of just 4.00. Sri Lanka’s innings was further derailed by three crucial run-outs, involving sharp work from Richa Ghosh behind the stumps. Despite late efforts from Harshitha Madavi (21), Sri Lanka could only manage 121/6 in their 20 overs.

Jemimah Rodrigues powers India’s rapid chase

India’s pursuit of 122 started with an explosive burst from Shafali Verma, who hammered 9 runs off 5 balls before falling to Kawya Kavindi. However, the early wicket did little to slow India’s momentum. Smriti Mandhana (25) and Jemimah Rodrigues combined for a 54-run partnership that effectively took the game away from the visitors.

Rodrigues was in sublime form, striking the ball with precision and intent. She finished unbeaten on 69 from just 44 deliveries, a knock featuring ten boundaries at a strike rate of 156.82. Her aggressive approach ensured that India stayed well ahead of the required run rate throughout the powerplay and beyond.

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

Clinical finish by Rodrigues Harmanpreet Kaur 

After Mandhana was dismissed by the veteran Inoka Ranaweera in the ninth over, captain Harmanpreet Kaur joined Rodrigues to navigate the final stretch. Kaur played a steady supporting role, scoring 15 off 16 balls, while Rodrigues continued to find the boundary with ease.

The duo shared an unbeaten 55-run stand, guiding India to 122/2 in just 14.4 overs. The comprehensive nature of the win highlights India’s depth and tactical superiority, particularly in the bowling and fielding departments which accounted for half of the Sri Lankan wickets via run-outs.

Jemimah Rodrigues shines in India’s victory over Sri Lanka 🏏#cricket #INDWvSLW #1stT20I pic.twitter.com/tbN2zVGZM3

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) December 22, 2025

With a 1-0 lead in the five-match series, Team India head into the next fixture with significant momentum. For Sri Lanka, the focus will be on improving their strike rotation and finding ways to counter India’s disciplined spin attack. The two teams will meet again on Tuesday as Sri Lanka looks to bounce back and level the series in what promises to be an exciting tour.

Also READ: IND-W vs SL-W 2025, T20I series – Broadcast, Live Streaming details | When and where to watch in India, USA, Canada and Sri Lanka

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

After the Indian Men’s Squad for the ICC T20 World Cup was announced on the 20th of December, a few changes might be taking place due to injuries or due to lack of form for any of the players.

The Indian Selectors took some bold calls in dropping the likes of Shubman Gill; however, some of the selections that were made did not seem to be right for the team’s dynamics. The selections might have been made to suit the combination, but a weak link can cost the entire team when it comes to an ICC tournament.

The Indian team mostly has players who have provided consistent and promising performances over the last few months, with Ishan Kishan and Rinku Singh being the only players who are making a return to the scheme of things after a notable absence.

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Uttar Pradesh batter is the weakest link of the Indian T20 World Cup squad

With the kind of form and dominance Ishan Kishan showed during the recent edition of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, he cannot be called out as a weak link in the side. Kishan also has promising T20I numbers for India in the past.

Rinku Singh might have had decent numbers for India, but the last time he played in a match before the Asia Cup final was against England in February, and the last time he played a significant innings for India was against Bangladesh back in October 2024.

Rinku Singh has been fairly out of touch, as a result of which he was sidelined from the Indian team; however, citing that he could come in handy in the T20 World Cup combination, the Uttar Pradesh batter was picked in the 15-member squad.

However, neither has Rinku been in touch in the format, nor does the batter have any other skill than batting, and moreover, with the likes of Hardik Pandya, Axar Patel and Shivam Dube all having a role to play with the ball, he is not ideal to replace any.

RCB’s wicket-keeper can be roped in as a replacement

If Rinku is picked in the original playing XI, then his effectiveness would be a huge question, especially in the subcontinent, since he is not a very good player of spin bowling. Jitesh Sharma, the wicket-keeper, could have been a more reliable player down the order if backups were needed by India.

Another player who showed glimpses of fine form was young all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy. Reddy played only three matches in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for the Andhra Pradesh side and scored 70 runs at a healthy strike rate, and also picked up a hat trick in the game against Madhya Pradesh.

Also, the SRH all-rounder could be useful with both the bat and ball, and could be a like-for-like replacement for any of the all-rounders, especially with Hardik Pandya being very prone to injuries.

Rinku Singh’s stats in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025

Rinku Singh was recently not a part of the national squad for the South Africa series, as a result of which he played the entire Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy season for his state team, Uttar Pradesh. The left-handed middle-order batter did not have a very promising run.

Coming out of a promising run with the bat in the Ranji Trophy, where he scored an unbeaten century against Andhra Pradesh, and then returning from Australia to continue his peak form against Tamil Nadu. However, going into SMAT, Rinku lost his spark and was dismissed for consecutive single-digit scores.

His only promising performance in the SMAT came against Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, where he scored 65 and 45, respectively. In 7 games of the season, Rinku could only manage 172 runs at an average of 24.57 and just one half-century.

ALSO READ: PCB and Mohsin Naqvi embarrassed as bidders show no interest in buying two new PSL teams

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has extended the bidding deadline for the two new Pakistan Super League franchises once again. An official statement is still awaited, but this is the second time the board has delayed the process, suggesting that interest from potential buyers has been slower than expected.

The auction for the two new teams is set to take place on January 6. Earlier, the PCB extended the deadline for submitting bids from December 15 to December 22. The PCB said that the extension was given because interest was coming in from new regions, including Europe, the United States, and the Middle East.

PCB Extends Deadline for Bids on Two New PSL Franchises to December 24

The Pakistan Cricket Board has once again extended the deadline for submitting initial bids for the two new PSL franchises. The new cut-off date is now December 24, although the board has not yet made an official announcement.

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“The last date for submitting initial bids is now extended by two days,” revealed a source at news agency PTI.

This is the second time the deadline has been extended. Earlier, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had said the original December 15 deadline was moved to December 22 during a PSL roadshow in New York.

While the PCB has not announced the latest delay, the board is not fully satisfied with the technical bids received so far. The PCB is looking for stronger and more suitable proposals.

Only those bidders who pass the initial technical evaluation will be allowed to take part in the final auction. The sale of the two new franchises is currently scheduled for early January.

PCB Explores Overseas Investment as Multan Sultans’ Future Remains Unclear

The Pakistan Cricket Board held roadshows in cities like London and New York to encourage foreign buyers to bid for PSL franchises instead of relying only on local investors.

At the same time, there is still uncertainty around the future of the Multan Sultans. The franchise became vacant after its former owner, Ali Tareen, stepped away following a disagreement with the board.

Notably, the PCB may take control of the Multan Sultans for the upcoming season. The plan could be to run the team for one year and then offer the franchise again through a fresh bidding process before the league’s 12th season, with rights likely to be sold for a long-term cycle.

PSL Set to Overlap With IPL Again as Longest Season Awaits

The Pakistan Super League will once again clash with the IPL next year, marking the second straight season where the two tournaments run at the same time. Notably, the IPL is scheduled from late March to the end of May, and the PSL will again take place in the April-May window.

The upcoming PSL season will be the longest in the league’s history. It is expected to run for 39 days, which is about a week longer than previous editions. Once the two new teams are confirmed, the final schedule will be released, and fans can expect more matches than ever before.

This will also be the second year in a row that the PSL is held in April and May. There will be a short gap between the end of the T20 World Cup and the start of the league, giving players limited recovery time.

Also read: India Playing XI against Pakistan in T20 World Cup 2026

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a 15-player squad for the 2026 T20 World Cup, which will take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7. Notably, the selectors also revealed that the same group will play in the five-match home T20I series against New Zealand beginning on January 21.

Suryakumar Yadav will lead the Indian squad for the T20 World Cup, with Axar Patel taking over as vice-captain after Shubman Gill was left out. As reigning champions from the 2024 edition, India have backed continuity by retaining most players who featured in recent T20I series against Australia and South Africa.

One player who is set to define India’s T20 World Cup 2026 campaign is Hardik Pandya. The all-rounder will be India’s go-to match-winner. His ability to score runs quickly and take wickets in all phases of the game makes him the most decisive weapon in India’s title defence.

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Hardik Pandya Set to Be a Key Player for India at T20 World Cup 2026

Hardik Pandya is expected to be one of India’s most important players at the T20 World Cup 2026. India are likely to back him in every match because of his ability to change games with both bat and ball.

With the ball, Hardik has taken 101 wickets in 112 innings at an average of 26.92 and an economy rate of 8.29. His ability to bowl at different stages of the innings gives India flexibility, especially in tight situations.

With the bat, Hardik has scored 2002 runs in 97 T20I innings at an average of 28.60 and a strike rate of 143.51, including seven half-centuries. His quick scoring in the middle and death overs helps India finish the innings strongly.

Hardik Pandya Shines as Match-Winner Against South Africa

Hardik Pandya played a decisive role in India’s T20I series win against South Africa. In the final match, he helped India post a total of 231/5. He smashed 63 runs from just 25 balls and earned the Player of the Match award. Notably, he reached his fifty in only 16 deliveries.

Earlier in the series, Hardik also scored an unbeaten 59 off 28 balls in the opening T20I, helping India recover and push towards a winning position. He scored 142 runs across three innings at a strike rate close to 187, with two half-centuries, and also contributed with the ball by taking three wickets.

Overall, the series highlighted Hardik’s value as a match-winner. His ability to finish innings with explosive hitting and chip in with wickets played a key part in India sealing the series.

Hardik Pandya’s Return Boosts India Ahead of T20 World Cup

Hardik Pandya made a strong comeback after recovering from his Asia Cup injury. He looked sharp with the bat, striking the ball cleanly, and his bowling showed improved pace and rhythm.

His return has strengthened the team in a big way, giving India extra depth, power, and flexibility. With Pandya back in form, India regain a proven match-winner who can make a major impact as they build toward the T20 World Cup.

In World Cups, Hardik has scored 357 runs across 24 matches at a strike rate of 142.23, with a top score of 63. With the ball, he has taken 24 wickets at an average of 21.66. India will expect him to deliver in the biggest moments, especially in knockout matches.

Also read: Brendon McCullum finally admits failure after England’s Ashes humiliation: “I haven’t got everything right”

Sydney Thunder will be up against the Brisbane Heat in the ninth match of the Big Bash League. This article contains information regarding the SYT vs BRH Head-to-Head records in this particular competition.

SYT vs BRH Head-to-Head Records- BBL 2025-26, Match 9:

Stats	Matches	SYT won	BRH won	Draw	Tied	NR
Overall	22	7	14	0	0	1
At Manuka Oval	5	3	2	0	0	0
In the last 5 matches	5	1	4	0	0	0

SYT vs BRH Head-to-Head Records- Key Statistics

Sydney Thunder have faced the former BBL champions, Brisbane Heat, on 22 occasions in the history of the league, with the latter having the lead.

Brisbane Heat have got the better of Sydney Thunder in 14 matches whle the Sydney Thunder have come out victorious in seven matches, with the remaining seven matches ending without yielding a result.

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As far as the results of the last five SYT vs BRH matches are concerned, they also convey the same story, with four matches going in favour of the Heat and the Thunder coming out on top in one match.

If we talk about the performances of both teams in the ongoing edition of the Big Bash League, the Sydney Thunder is still in search of its first win, having played two and lost two games.

While Brisbane started the competition with a loss against the Melbourne Renegades, it made a roaring comeback with a record-breaking run chase of 258 runs against the Perth Scorchers in the second match.

The Thunder would like to get their campaign up and running with a win over the Brisbane heat, who would be high on confidence after the heroics that they were able to pull off in the last match.

Whereas the Heat would look to continue the momentum that they have on their side after a thumping win over the Scorchers and register back to ack wins early in the tournament.

The above-mentioned reasons make the upcoming contest a mouth-watering one as both Thunder and Heat have got all their bases covered and would wish to give it what it takes to get the better of the opposition.