Alex Carey delivered a memorable performance on Day 1 of the 3rd Ashes Test in Adelaide, scoring a brilliant counter-attacking 106 to swing momentum back in Australia’s favour after an early batting collapse. The wicketkeeper’s innings not only revived the hosts but also became the centre of a major DRS controversy that sparked debate late into the day.

Coming in with Australia under pressure, Carey showed composure and intent, combining sharp strokeplay with calculated aggression. His century proved pivotal in stabilising the innings and frustrating England’s bowlers on a day that otherwise belonged to the visitors early on.

DRS drama overshadows Alex Carey’s century

England review denied despite Snicko murmur

Carey’s knock, however, was not without controversy. During his innings, England appealed for a caught-behind dismissal after a delivery from Josh Tongue, with wicketkeeper Jamie Smith also convinced there was an edge. On-field umpire Ahsan Raza turned down the appeal, prompting England to opt for a review.

While Snicko showed a faint sound, the third umpire ruled that the ball had not passed close enough to the bat to confirm an edge. As a result, Carey was given a reprieve – a decision that left England visibly frustrated.

Controversy in #TheAshes as human error with Snicko saves Alex Carey… and his century 👀 pic.twitter.com/VXxqmNPb6N

— Cricket on TNT Sports (@cricketontnt) December 17, 2025

Alex Carey admits he hit the ball

The debate intensified after Carey’s post-day press conference, where the Australian admitted that he had indeed made contact with the ball on the disputed delivery.

“I thought there was a bit of a feather or some sort of noise when it passed the bat,” Carey said. “If I was given out, I think I would have reviewed it. Probably not confidently though. It was a nice sound as it went past the bat.”

Carey’s candid admission added fuel to discussions around the accuracy and reliability of the Decision Review System in high-stakes Test matches.

BBG Sports accept responsibility for Snicko error

Technology provider BBG Sports, which operates the Snickometer system, later acknowledged that a human error was responsible for the incorrect decision. In a statement issued to BBC Sport, the company explained that the wrong stump microphone had been selected during audio processing.

“Given that Alex Carey admitted he had hit the ball in question, the only conclusion that can be drawn is that the Snicko operator at the time selected the incorrect stump mic,” the statement read. “In light of this, BBG Sports takes full responsibility for the error.”

Also READ: Ashes 2025/26 – Fans erupt as Alex Carey lights up Adelaide Oval with magnificent ton on Day 1 of third Test

The microphone used was reportedly from the non-striker’s end, leading to inaccurate audio interpretation.

DRS protocols under scrutiny in WTC match

Host broadcaster supplies review technology

The incident has once again brought DRS protocols under the microscope, particularly in World Test Championship (WTC) matches where the system is mandatory. For the Adelaide Test, the review technology was supplied by the host broadcaster, Fox Cricket, as per ICC regulations.

While the error did not violate playing conditions, it raised concerns about operational checks and the margin for error in crucial moments of elite cricket.

Also WATCH: Zak Crawley takes a one-handed blinder to dismiss Travis Head on Day 1 of Adelaide Test

The cricketing world was set ablaze at the IPL 2026 mini-auction, but amidst the big names and international stars, it was a 19-year-old from Rajasthan who stole the headlines and shattered records. Chennai Super Kings (CSK) – renowned for their shrewd acquisitions – made an audacious move, shelling out a staggering ₹14.20 crore for wicketkeeper-batter Kartik Sharma, making him the joint-most expensive uncapped player in IPL history. This life-changing sum not only eclipses his ₹30 lakh base price by a monumental margin but also heralds the arrival of a potential future superstar.

The uncapped sensation: Who is Kartik Sharma?

Born on April 26, 2006, Kartik is a right-handed wicketkeeper-batter who hails from the vibrant cricketing landscape of Rajasthan. At just 19, his aggressive batting style, particularly his penchant for clearing the ropes, has already earned him a formidable reputation in domestic circles. Before the auction, he was a name whispered among scouts, but after it, he is the name on every fan’s lips. His journey from local grounds to the grand stage of the IPL is a testament to raw talent, relentless hard work, and perhaps, a touch of destiny.

The auction frenzy: CSK’s daring bid

The bidding war for Kartik was arguably the most captivating segment of the mini-auction. Starting from his modest base price of ₹30 lakh, franchises like Mumbai Indians, Lucknow Super Giants, and Kolkata Knight Riders quickly joined the fray, recognizing the untapped potential. As the price soared past the ₹5 crore mark, the competition intensified. It was a fierce battle between Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad, with both teams determined to secure the young talent. Ultimately, CSK’s persistent pursuit, backed by their tactical acumen, saw them clinch the deal for an eye-watering ₹14.20 crore. This move signals CSK’s continued faith in nurturing young, explosive Indian talent, a strategy that has often paid dividends for the Yellow Army.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Complete list of sold players with their price

Key facts about Kartik

• Kartik hails from the Bharatpur district of Rajasthan.
• His father, Manoj Sharma, was a school teacher who left his job over a decade ago to focus entirely on training Kartik. His mother, Radha, works as an anganwadi worker.
• He made a massive statement in red-ball cricket by scoring 113 on his Ranji Trophy debut for Rajasthan against Uttarakhand during the 2024–25 season.
• He became only the third Indian man to record a century on both his First Class and List A debuts.
• At age five, his father took him to train at the academy run by Lokendra Singh Chahar (father of Deepak and Rahul Chahar) in Agra.
• Signed by CSK for ₹14.20 crore, he shares the record for the highest price ever paid for an uncapped Indian player with his teammate Prashant Veer.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Fans erupt as CSK signs Prashant Veer and Kartik Sharma at record prices; making them joint most expensive uncapped players

In a significant blow to the Men in Blue, India’s vice-captain Shubman Gill has been ruled out of the fourth T20I against South Africa at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium. The opener is sidelined due to a foot injury sustained ahead of the clash on Wednesday, December 17.

India’s injury concerns grow with Shubman Gill ruled out of Lucknow T20I

Gill’s exclusion adds to India’s mounting availability concerns. The vice-captain had only recently returned to the squad after recovering from a neck issue that kept him out of the preceding ODI series. This setback follows the news that all-rounder Axar Patel will miss the remainder of the series due to illness.

With the T20 World Cup approaching in February, these injuries are a concern for the team management as they look to finalize their core lineup during the remaining games against South Africa and the upcoming home series against New Zealand.

A struggling series for the Indian vice-captain

Before the injury, Gill was facing a dip in form. Tasked with finding his rhythm after a lukewarm Asia Cup campaign, the opener struggled to find his footing against the Proteas’ attack:

• Total runs: 32 runs in 3 matches
• Series average: 10.66
• Strike rate: 103.22
• Recent scores: 4 (Cuttack), 0 (Mullanpur), and 28 (Dharamshala).

Overall, 2025 has been a quiet year by Gill’s standards, with the right-hander accumulating 291 runs in 15 matches at an average of 24.25.

Also READ: IND vs SA: Hardik Pandya scripts history with unique milestone during 3rd T20I

Sanju Samson may return at the top

Gill’s absence is expected to pave the way for Sanju Samson to return to the playing XI. Samson, who last featured in a T20I during the tour of Australia, boasts an impressive record as an opener. In 2024, he was a standout performer for India in the shortest format.

Fog delays start in Lucknow

While the team news has fans buzzing, the match itself faces a weather-related hurdle. The toss at the Ekana Stadium has been delayed due to heavy fog in Lucknow. Groundstaff and officials are monitoring the visibility levels to determine when play can safely commence.

Also READ: Indian skipper Suryakumar Yadav discusses his current lean patch in T20Is ahead of Lucknow clash vs South Africa

India‘s T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav faced questions about his prolonged batting struggles during the third T20I against South Africa in Dharamsala, where India secured a seven-wicket victory to lead the five-match series 2-1. Scoring just 12 off 11 balls before falling to Lungi Ngidi, Suryakumar extended his lean run across 21 T20I innings, with only two notable scores, a 75 against Bangladesh and an unbeaten 47 versus Pakistan, disrupting an otherwise consistent record. His 2025 T20I average dipped to 14.20, highlighting challenges against pace bowling at a strike rate below 126.​

India captain Suryakumar Yadav reacts to criticism over T20I slump

Suryakumar dismissed form concerns post-match, emphasizing sharp net practice and confidence in an imminent turnaround.

“I’ve been batting beautifully in the nets. When the runs have to come, they’ll come. Not out of form, definitely out of runs,” he stated during the post-match presentation.

He praised the team’s resilience after the second T20I loss in Mullanpur, crediting a return to basics from the Cuttack win, productive bowler meetings, and honest discussions that fuelled the comeback.​

Also READ: IND vs SA: Hardik Pandya scripts history with unique milestone during 3rd T20I

Suryakumar’s toughest T20I phase

The drop in Suryakumar’s T20I production throughout 2025 is stark when compared to his historic peak where he maintained a career-best rating of 912 points. In the current calendar year, his numbers have plummeted to a mediocre average of 14.2 across 18 innings, with a strike rate that has dipped from his usual 170+ range to a more restrained 125.29.

Suryakumar, once the undisputed world number one in the format, is currently navigating the most challenging statistical slump of his international career. Throughout 2025, the batter formerly known as “Mr. 360” has struggled to replicate the explosive, game-changing innings that became his trademark between 2021 and 2023. This downturn has been particularly evident during the ongoing T20I series against South Africa, where he has recorded scores of 12, 5, and 12, failing to provide the middle-order impetus India has come to expect.

While he remains a tactical asset as a leader, having recently guided India to an Asia Cup T20 title, the disconnect between his record-breaking IPL 2025 form and his international output has sparked concerns among experts and fans alike. With the next T20 World Cup fast approaching, the pressure is mounting on the skipper to rediscover his rhythm and silence the growing scrutiny regarding his batting consistency.

Also WATCH: Arshdeep Singh removes Reeza Hendricks with a beauty in 3rd T20I – IND vs SA

On December 17, 2025, Indian cricket legend Virat Kohli found himself at the epicenter of a social media storm following an encounter at Mumbai airport. Arriving with his wife, Anushka Sharma, the couple was surrounded by tight security as they made their way to a waiting car. In the midst of the chaos, a young fan, later identified as differently-abled, approached the cricketer with a request for a photograph. However, Kohli continued walking without making eye contact or acknowledging the boy’s plea, an act that was captured on video and instantly broadcast across the globe.

Did Virat Kohli and Anushka Sharma disrespect a physically challenged fan? Video from Mumbai Airport sparks controversy

The incident unfolded just as Kohli and Anushka were returning from a deeply spiritual visit to the ashram of Premanand Ji Maharaj in Vrindavan, a trip that had previously earned them widespread praise for their humility. As the couple stepped into the crowded terminal, the atmosphere was thick with paparazzi and fans eager for a glimpse of the superstar. The viral footage shows a young fan, struggling to keep pace with the swift movement of the security detail, extending his phone in hopes of a selfie with his idol.

Despite the fan’s proximity and visible effort, Kohli appeared to maintain a stern focus on reaching his vehicle, guided by his security team who were actively clearing a path through the throng. While such rapid exits are common for celebrities in high-security zones like airports to prevent overcrowding or safety hazards, the optics of bypassing a vulnerable admirer struck a chord with those watching the clip.

Observers noted that the cricketer did not offer even a brief nod or a word of acknowledgment, leading to accusations that his public persona of vinamra (humility) did not match his actions in that moment. The juxtaposition of his recent spiritual journey with this perceived lack of empathy created a narrative that many found difficult to reconcile, turning a routine airport transit into a significant PR crisis.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Who is Prashant Veer? The ‘next Ravindra Jadeja’ for CSK

Within hours of the video’s release, social media platforms were flooded with a polarized mix of outrage and staunch defense, highlighting the immense pressure under which global icons operate. Critics were quick to trend hashtags like “Rude Kohli,” with many users expressing deep disappointment and labeling the behavior as “insensitive” and “disgusting,” particularly given the fan’s physical challenges. Comments such as ‘What is the point of visiting a spiritual guru if you cannot show kindness to a child?” became common refrains, suggesting a level of hypocrisy in his public conduct.

Here’s how fans reacted:

Virat Kohli’s actions don’t reflect the values he showed when he met Premanand Maharaj.

– A physically challenged fan was pushed away while Kohli just arrogantly walked off. 💔 pic.twitter.com/we2vHzDRU1

— ` (@arrestshubman) December 16, 2025

So finally the truth came out all those spiritual visits of Kohli was to fool Indians

You will never see Dhoni or Rohit treating his fans like how Kohli arrogantly pushed away that physically challenged fan pic.twitter.com/2zKyWM3jo8

— 𝙼𝚛.𝚅𝚒𝚕𝚕𝚊™ (@Shivayaaah) December 17, 2025

What an arrogant behaviour from Virat Kohli. pic.twitter.com/iRkGa5PbXH

— Kolly Censor (@KollyCensor) December 16, 2025

Anushka is laughing at this behavior 😭 pic.twitter.com/sEjHiN9zJF

— Gagan🇮🇳 (@1no_aalsi_) December 17, 2025

Look how A disabled fan was treated like nothing and Kohli just walked off. This is what arrogance looks like. Shameful behavior! pic.twitter.com/cdz9oUALwf

— O2 (@ChaiiyyPiii) December 17, 2025

How insensitive to do that to a child! @imVkohli is just full of himself, he and his wife @AnushkaSharma think they’re God! https://t.co/oveLNxHpY5

— Varthika (@VarthikaSingh) December 17, 2025

Gambhir pls remove him from India squad

A man who disrespect his fans never play for his country @GautamGambhir https://t.co/EkrXJTNiAD

— SURIYA jaibhim (@SuriyaJaibhim) December 17, 2025

This is celebrity reverence at peak! Kohli is not obliged to wait for someone to take a selfie, his time /family etc. But he didn’t even give a nod or look at the guy. Stop making them heroes, he will do it if he is getting paid, you are an unknown to him. They don’t respect you. https://t.co/6nmZRI6NKT

— R P G (@1Unshackle1) December 17, 2025

Not a good human being, although the best cricketer! All in drain then….!!! https://t.co/IBMQPSFZI5

— a dynamic British🇬🇧 citizen (Bharat origin 🇮🇳) (@dynamicsach) December 16, 2025

I don’t understand when they dnt treat you like a human why to run behind them? Yeh toh phir global icon
Log bb k contestant ke peeche baghte hai Bhikari ki tarha dusre cities mein
Virat refused a selfie to our Jawan
Tab se i have zero respect for him https://t.co/0lrHB2lSyg

— Winner 🏆 💥 (@newterminator1) December 17, 2025

Also WATCH: Kavya Maran’s priceless reactions as SRH outbid LSG to sign Liam Livingstone | IPL 2026 Auction

Prashant Veer has officially etched his name into Indian Premier League (IPL) history as the joint most expensive uncapped player ever, a feat achieved during the high-octane 2026 mini-auction in Abu Dhabi. At just 20 years old, the Uttar Pradesh sensation was signed by Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for a staggering ₹14.20 crore, serving as the strategic replacement for the legendary Ravindra Jadeja.

IPL 2026: CSK’s replacement for Ravindra Jadeja in form of Prashant Veer

A dynamic left-arm orthodox spinner and a ferocious lower-order batter, Veer mirrors Jadeja’s multi-dimensional skill set that CSK has relied upon for over a decade. His meteoric rise follows a breakout season in the UP T20 League where his ‘spark’ caught the eye of MS Dhoni and the CSK scouts. Standing at the threshold of greatness, he carries the heavy tag of being the “new Jadeja” for a franchise in deep transition.

Beyond his technical prowess, he is known for his lightning-quick reflexes in the field, making him a complete 3D package. For CSK, this investment isn’t just about a single season; it’s about securing the next decade of their spin-bowling all-round core. His journey from the dusty lanes of Amethi to the yellow jersey of Chennai is nothing short of a cricketing fairytale.

IPL 2026: The historic ₹14.20 crore bidding war for uncapped player Prashant Veer

The auction room in Abu Dhabi crackled with electricity the moment Prashant Veer’s name was announced at a modest base price of ₹30 lakh. The initial skirmish broke out between Mumbai Indians and Lucknow Super Giants, who recognized the rare value of a domestic left-arm all-rounder. However, as the bid zoomed past the ₹5 crore mark, the heavyweights stepped in, with Rajasthan Royals, the team that had recently traded for Jadeja, desperate to find a young alternative.

The atmosphere turned into a high-stakes standoff when Chennai Super Kings and Sunrisers Hyderabad locked horns in a relentless bidding war that spanned nearly 86 rounds of rapid-fire raising of paddles. Every time the auctioneer looked ready to drop the hammer, a new bid would fly in from the CSK table, led by a determined management team acting on specific trial data. When the price hit ₹14.20 crore, SRH finally bowed out, making Veer the joint-most expensive uncapped player in history alongside Kartik Sharma. This massive 47-times jump from his base price signaled CSK’s absolute all-in commitment to their new era.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Full list of unsold players along with their base price

7 lesser known facts about Prashant Veer

• Birth and Rural Roots: Prashant Ramendra Veer was born on November 24, 2005, in the small village of Shahjipur, located about 13 kilometers from Amethi, Uttar Pradesh. His early years were spent playing tennis-ball cricket in local fields, where he was often the youngest but most talented player among older boys.

• The Humble Shiksha Mitra Father: His father, Ramendra Veer, works as a Shiksha Mitra (contractual primary teacher) earning a modest salary of approximately ₹12,000 per month. Despite the financial constraints, his father prioritized Prashant’s dreams, often stating that he would support his son even if he chose farming over cricket.
• A Mother’s Silent Support: His mother, Anjana Tripathi, a dedicated housewife, has been the emotional backbone of his journey. Following his record-breaking auction win, the family celebrated by distributing sweets in their village, with his mother expressing that the money is for the family to manage, while Prashant remains focused only on the ball and bat.

• Educational Struggles and Migration: Prashant completed his primary schooling at Bhardwaj Academy and KPS School in Sang Rampur. To pursue cricket seriously, he moved to Mainpuri for a sports hostel, where he passed his 9th and 10th-grade exams, and eventually completed his Intermediate (12th) from Saharanpur in 2025.
• The Saharanpur Transformation: Realizing that cricket in Mainpuri wasn’t competitive enough, he moved to Saharanpur seven years ago under the guidance of coach Rajiv Goyal. When his grandfather, Suryakumar Tripathi (who funded his cricket with his pension), passed away, Prashant nearly quit the sport due to lack of funds, but his coach and local officials stepped in to sponsor his kit and training.

• The ‘Miller’ Moniker and Idolatry: In the UPCA Green Park Academy, he was nicknamed ‘Miller’ (after South African David Miller) by his coach Sunil because he often wore a green jersey and shared a similar explosive hitting style. However, his true idol is Yuvraj Singh, and he proudly wears the Jersey Number 12 to honor the Indian legend.
• Statistical Brilliance & Resilience: His rise is backed by workhorse numbers; he once played 6 matches in 7 days across different cities for the UP Under-23 and Senior teams. In the 2025 UP T20 League, he smashed 320 runs (strike rate 155.34) and took 8 wickets, while in the recent Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league stage, he maintained a lethal strike rate of 170 with his lower-order cameos.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Complete list of sold players with their price

As India and South Africa gear up for the fourth T20I in Lucknow, weather conditions are expected to play a subtle but important role at the Ekana Cricket Stadium. With the series at a decisive stage, teams will be closely monitoring the forecast, dew factor and toss dynamics as they fine-tune their strategies for the night contest on Wednesday, December 17.

The good news for players and fans is that there is no rain threat for the match, ensuring uninterrupted action in what could be a series-defining clash.

Lucknow weather forecast for IND vs SA 4th T20I

According to weather projections, the Lucknow weather on match day is expected to remain stable throughout the evening and night. Skies are forecast to stay clear, with no precipitation predicted before, during or after the game.

Temperatures during play are likely to range between 11°C and 16°C, creating cool playing conditions typical of North Indian winters. While light winds are expected, they are unlikely to significantly affect swing or ball movement. Moderate humidity may add a slight chill in the air, but overall conditions should be comfortable for both players and spectators.

Importantly, there are no weather-related disruptions anticipated, allowing teams to plan without the uncertainty of rain interruptions or reduced overs.

Dew factor at Ekana Cricket Stadium

One of the key talking points for the IND vs SA 4th T20I is the dew factor. As the night progresses, most forecasts suggest that dew is likely to settle in, especially during the latter half of the match.

Dew can make the ball skidier and more difficult for bowlers to grip, particularly spinners and seamers relying on cutters. While the Ekana Stadium has occasionally remained relatively dry compared to other North Indian venues, winter evening games in this region generally experience enough moisture to influence conditions.

As a result, the surface may quicken slightly under lights, allowing batters to play through the line more freely during the chase. Fielding sides could also find it harder to control the wet ball, increasing the challenge in the death overs.

Also READ: IND vs SA – Pitch Report for 4th T20I, Ekana Cricket Stadium Stats and Records

Toss prediction: Bowl first or bat first?

Given the expected weather and dew conditions, toss prediction trends point towards teams choosing to bowl first. Captains may look to take advantage of a relatively drier pitch early in the evening before moisture sets in later on.

Bowling first allows teams to exploit any early grip available on the surface and then rely on improved batting conditions while chasing.

Based on recent matches and pitch behaviour, the par score at Ekana Stadium is projected to fall in the 165-180 range. Teams batting first will aim to push beyond 170 to stay competitive, particularly with dew expected to assist chasing sides.

Bowling units will focus on restricting the opposition through disciplined middle overs and smart variations, while batting sides will look to pace their innings and capitalize on any late-evening slickness on the outfield.

Also READ: IND vs SA, 4th T20I, Match Prediction – Who will win today’s game between India and South Africa?

The Sydney Sixers return to the SCG today to host the Adelaide Strikers in the 4th match of BBL|15. The Sixers are looking to bounce back from a rainy opening-night loss to the Scorchers, while the Strikers are kicking off their campaign with a fresh-look squad and a new captain.

The Sixers fell short in a rain-curtailed 11-over shootout against Perth but found a major positive in Jack Edwards, whose blistering 46 off 21 balls cemented his status as a premier domestic all-rounder. Babar Azam had a quiet debut, and the top order will be keen to set a stronger platform tonight. The return of veteran Jordan Silk provides much-needed stability to the middle order.

Strikers Under new captain Matthew Short, the Strikers are desperate to move past last season’s bottom-place finish. They’ve bolstered their pace attack with international recruits Hasan Ali and Luke Wood, and the experience of Chris Lynn remains their biggest threat at the top. With Alex Carey on national duty, they’ll rely heavily on Harry Nielsen behind the stumps and Jason Sangha to provide middle-order flair.

SS vs AS, BBL|15: Match details

• Date and Time: December 17 (Tuesday); 1:45 pm IST / 8:15 am GMT / 7:15 pm Local
• Venue: Sydney Cricket Ground, Sydney
• Head-to-Head Record in BBL: Matches played: 21 | Sydney Sixers won: 14 | Adelaide Strikers won: 07 | No result/Tied: 0

Sydney Cricket Ground Pitch Report

The pitch at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) is expected to be a traditional, well-balanced T20 surface. The surface generally offers good carry and bounce early in the game. Fast bowlers who can hit a hard length—like Ben Dwarshuis or Luke Wood—will find some zip and potentially a bit of swing with the new ball. As the match progresses, the ball typically comes onto the bat nicely.

Also READ: Tim Seifert’s spectacular century helps Melbourne Renegades crush Brisbane Heat in BBL|15

Squads:

Adelaide Strikers: Chris Lynn, Matthew Short (c), Jason Sangha, Liam Scott, Harry Nielsen (wk), Mackenzie Harvey, Jamie Overton, Hasan Ali, Lloyd Pope, Henry Thornton, Luke Wood, Alex Ross

Sydney Sixers: Daniel Hughes, Babar Azam, Josh Philippe (wk), Moises Henriques (c), Riley Kingsell, Jack Edwards, Ben Dwarshuis, Joel Davies, Jafer Chohan, Mitchell Perry, Todd Murphy, Hayden Kerr, Charles Stobo, Jordan Silk

SS vs AS, BBL|15: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Sydney Sixers wins the toss and bowls first
• Adelaide Strikers’ powerplay score: 45-55 (6 overs)
• Adelaide Strikers’ total score: 170-180

Case 2:

• Adelaide Strikers wins the toss and bowls first
• Sydney Sixers’ powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• Sydeny Sixers’ total score: 160-170

Match result: Team bowling first to win the contest

Also READ: BBL|15: Chris Jordan shines as Hobart Hurricanes beat Sydney Thunder in last over thriller

A dramatic health scare on the morning of the match forced Australia to rewrite their plans against England for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide. After being left out of the initial XI on the eve of the match, veteran batter Usman Khawaja was handed a last-minute lifeline when Steve Smith was ruled out before the toss. Khawaja made the most of the unexpected opportunity, scoring a vital half-century to rescue the Australian innings after a shaky start.

Here’s why Usman Khawaja is in the playing XI despite being initially left out for the Adelaide Test

The Adelaide Oval saw chaotic scenes just an hour before the toss on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. Smith, who had been struggling with nausea and dizziness in the lead-up to the game, was assessed during the pre-match warm-ups. Despite his desire to play, the symptoms persisted, and he was seen looking “disconsolate” after a long discussion with captain Pat Cummins and coach Andrew McDonald. Cricket Australia later confirmed that Smith was suffering from a potential vestibular (inner-ear) issue, a condition he has managed intermittently in the past.

Captain Pat Cummins addressed the shock change at the toss:

“He (Smith) is feeling unwell and has headed home. But we are lucky to have someone like Uzzie come in. He came and gave it a crack this morning but didn’t think he was going to get up for this one… Usman will be at number 4.”

Smith’s absence was a massive blow for the hosts, as the star batter had just led Australia to victories in Perth and Brisbane during Cummins’ absence. However, the medical team prioritized his long-term recovery, expressing confidence that he will be fit for the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne.

Also READ: AUS vs ENG, Ashes 2025-26: Pitch report for 3rd Test, Adelaide Oval Stats and Records

Ashes 2025-26: Khawaja rescues Australia with composed half-century in the 3rd Test vs England

Drafted into the side just minutes before the toss, Khawaja walked into a high-pressure situation at an unfamiliar No. 4 position. Australia’s innings began disastrously as openers Travis Head and Jake Weatherald were both dismissed within six balls, leaving the hosts reeling at 33/2. Khawaja, who had been omitted from the initial XI following a lean run and back spasms, looked determined to prove his critics wrong. Despite surviving an early scare when Harry Brook dropped a regulation catch at second slip, the 38-year-old played with characteristic grit and composure.

Khawaja’s return was marked by a steadying partnership with Marnus Labuschagne, which anchored the Australian response.  Khawaja grabbed his lifeline in style, striking ten boundaries to reach 82 before eventually falling to Will Jacks. His 91-run stand with Alex Carey proved pivotal in guiding Australia toward a competitive first-innings total. By the time he was dismissed for 82 off 126 balls, Khawaja had not only steadied the ship but also likely secured his spot for the remainder of the series. His performance under immense pressure, moving from the outer to the team’s top scorer in a matter of hours, served as a powerful reminder of his enduring value to the Australian Test side.

Also READ: AUS vs ENG, Ashes 2025-26: Adelaide Weather Forecast for the 3rd Test

The five-match T20 International series between the hosts India and South Africa reaches its penultimate stage with the highly crucial fourth match at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. With India taking a dominant 2-1 lead after a comprehensive seven-wicket win in Dharamsala, the home team will be looking to secure an unassailable series victory. South Africa, having shown flashes of brilliance but struggling with consistency, must win this match to keep the series alive and force a decider. The focus for both sides will be on adapting quickly to the challenging Lucknow surface, known for its slow nature.

IND vs SA, 4th T20I: Match Details

Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Pitch Report

The Ekana Cricket Stadium pitch has a reputation for being slow and low, offering a significant challenge to free-flowing stroke play. Historically, the surface has favored pace bowlers who use variations and, crucially, spinners, who can extract good turn and grip, though recent BBL matches have shown pacers dominating the wickets column. The average first innings score at this venue is modest, around 151, and defending totals has been more successful than chasing in T20Is. However, dew remains a concern for the team bowling second. A score between 160-170 is likely to be highly competitive. The captain winning the toss may elect to bat first to put runs on the board and exploit any turn in the second innings.

India vs South Africa: Team dynamics and key players

India: India’s strength lies in their bowling attack, which dismantled the Proteas for a paltry 117 in the last game. Varun Chakravarthy, the leading wicket-taker of the series, has been unplayable, supported brilliantly by Arshdeep Singh and Harshit Rana. Their batting, while potent, needs more consistency from captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill, with only Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma looking comfortable. India will rely on their spin duo and the all-round value of Hardik Pandya to seal the series.

South Africa: South Africa desperately needs its star batters, particularly Quinton de Kock, Dewald Brevis, and Tristan Stubbs, to fire collectively. Captain Aiden Markram has been the lone warrior with the bat, and he must find support. Their pace attack, featuring Anrich Nortje and Lungi Ngidi (who has been excellent with 6 wickets), will relish the conditions, where variations are key. The selection of spin options like Keshav Maharaj will be vital in restricting the hosts and ensuring a fightback to level the series.

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IND vs SA, 4th T20I: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• India wins the toss and bats first
• India powerplay score: 50-60 (6 overs)
• India total score: 170-185

Case 2:

• South Africa wins the toss and bats first
• South Africa powerplay score: 40-50 (6 overs)
• South Africa total score: 155-170

Match result: India to win the contest

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