The final and most explosive leg of the South Africa Tour of India 2025 is set to begin. Following a hard-fought Test series and a gripping ODI contest, the two cricketing powerhouses now lock horns in a five-match T20 International series.

India vs South Africa T20I Series 2025

Beginning on Tuesday, December 9, in Cuttack, this series carries immense significance beyond the bilateral trophy. With the T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, this is a crucial opportunity for both teams to fine-tune their strategies, solidify their playing XIs, and test their bench strength under genuine pressure.

Led by the world’s top-ranked T20 batter, Suryakumar Yadav, the reigning T20 World Champions, India, look to leverage their dominant track record in the format at home. They receive a massive boost with the return of star players like vice-captain Shubman Gill and all-rounder Hardik Pandya, adding serious firepower to an already explosive line-up.

However, the Aiden Markram-led Proteas are a formidable T20 unit, often considered better suited to the shortest format than the others. With lethal pace from Anrich Nortje and devastating finishers like David Miller and Tristan Stubbs (as we discussed), South Africa possesses the ammunition to challenge India’s supremacy on their home turf. The series promises a high-octane battle of contrasting styles: India’s high-intent batting and spin wizardry versus South Africa’s express pace and unbridled middle-order hitting. As the teams traverse the country, the fight for T20 supremacy will be fierce and spectacular.

IND vs SA: 3 South African players who can trouble India in the T20I series

1. Dewald Brevis (Middle-Order Batter)

Dewald Brevis, or ‘Baby AB,’ is an explosive six-hitter whose T20I career has started with an astonishing T20I Strike Rate of 180.18, underpinned by a record-breaking century against Australia. His transfer to the Chennai Super Kings for Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 provided him with invaluable experience in the heart of Indian conditions. He was highly successful in his six matches for CSK, scoring 225 runs at an average of 37.50 and a devastating Strike Rate of 180.00.

This success, featuring two half-centuries, proves he can handle the pressure and quality of the IPL, facing India’s top bowlers consistently. Brevis’s ability to play the reverse-sweep and switch-hit against spin, coupled with his power hitting against pace, makes him a highly unpredictable and dangerous prospect for the Indian bowling unit in this bilateral series.

Also READ: IND vs SA: Tony de Zorzi and Kwena Maphaka ruled of T20I series vs India; South Africa announce updated squad

2. Anrich Nortje (Fast Bowler)

Anrich Nortje is South Africa’s pace spearhead, and his sheer express pace remains his biggest weapon against any opposition. On Indian pitches, which are typically slow, his ability to rush the batters and hit awkward short-of-a-length areas is a significant advantage. Indian batters, who are accustomed to playing against pace on faster wickets, can sometimes struggle against raw, unforgiving speed on slightly slower surfaces.

Furthermore, Nortje has extensive experience playing in the IPL for the Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders, giving him intimate knowledge of the venues and specific Indian batter tendencies. His skill in bowling rapid, pinpoint yorkers in the death overs, a phase where the Indian team is looking to maximize runs, makes him a tough proposition to score against, often leading to dot balls and subsequent wicket-taking opportunities.

3. Tristan Stubbs (Finisher/Middle-Order Batter)

Tristan Stubbs is one of the most exciting young finishers in world cricket, possessing immense power and a 360-degree range of shots. Like Klaasen, his biggest asset is his high strike rate, which he maintains even under pressure. Stubbs has played an instrumental role in many of his domestic and franchise T20 teams (including Delhi in the IPL 2025) due to his ability to launch from ball one, especially against spin.

His performance in the IPL 2025, where he made key contributions in high-pressure chases, highlights his growing maturity as a finisher. In the middle and late overs, where India will deploy their fast bowlers and all-rounders, Stubbs’s innovative strokeplay, like reverse sweeps and scoops, can completely demoralize the opposition. He represents the modern, fearless T20 batter capable of turning a decent total into a match-winning one in the final four overs.

Also READ: Virat Kohli picks his favourite innings from the South Africa ODI series

As the Men in Blue gear up to face the Proteas in the five-match T20I series starting tomorrow, December 9, at the Barabati Stadium, anticipation is at an all-time high. Fresh off a spirited 2-1 victory in the ODI leg, India transitions to the shortest format with a squad brimming with explosive talent and tactical mystery.

With the T20 World Cup 2026 on the horizon, this series serves as a critical litmus test for Suryakumar Yadav‘s leadership and India’s aggressive template. While the visitors possess a formidable lineup, some Indian stars, in particular, look poised to dismantle the South African challenge.

3 Indian players who can trouble Proteas in the T20I leg

1) Abhishek Sharma

If there is one name that has redefined T20 batting in 2025, it is Abhishek Sharma. The Punjab southpaw recently etched his name in history books during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, becoming the first Indian batter ever to smash over 100 sixes in T20s in a single calendar year. His numbers this year are nothing short of video-game figures: in 36 innings, he has amassed nearly 1,500 runs at a staggering strike rate of 204.22, including three centuries and nine fifties.

Abhishek enters this series in red-hot form, fresh off a blistering campaign in the domestic circuit where he struck at nearly 250 and registered a career-best 148. South Africa’s pace attack, usually their biggest strength, faces a severe test against Abhishek’s high-risk template. Having already hit 47 sixes in just 17 T20Is this year, his ability to clear the ropes from ball one makes him the primary threat the Proteas must neutralize early to avoid a Powerplay demolition.

2) Varun Chakaravarthy

Varun Chakaravarthy‘s resurgence has been the tactical headline of India’s bowling attack this year. The mystery spinner is currently enjoying the form of his life, having been named Player of the Series against England earlier in 2025 where he claimed 14 wickets, including a mesmerising 5/24. His consistency was further cemented in IPL 2025, where he picked up 17 wickets in 13 matches with an economy rate of just 7.66—gold dust in modern T20 cricket.

Crucially for this series, Chakaravarthy has a psychological edge over the hosts. In his last T20I outing against the Proteas in November 2024, he spun a web around their middle order to claim a career-best 5/17. With the Cuttack pitch expected to offer some grip, his unique ability to turn the ball both ways without a discernible change in action makes him India’s trump card to choke the run flow in the middle overs.

Also WATCH: Rohit Sharma hilariously refuses to eat cake after India’s ODI series win over South Africa

3) Suryakumar Yadav

While Suryakumar remains the most feared name on the team sheet, the Indian skipper enters this series with a massive point to prove. The year 2025 has been a tale of two distinct halves for SKY: a sensational IPL campaign where he amassed a staggering 717 runs—including a record-breaking streak of consecutive 25+ scores—versus a perplexing dip in international colors.

The recent stats paint a concerning picture for ‘Mr. 360.’ By late October, Surya had managed only 100 runs in 11 T20Is, languishing with an uncharacteristic average of around 11.11. His struggles to convert starts were evident during the Asia Cup, where he totaled just 65 runs with a high score of 47*, and continued into the series against Australia with modest returns of 39*, 1, 24, and 20.

However, South Africa should not underestimate him based on this slump. With the T20 World Cup approaching, the pressure is on, and SKY is desperate to bridge the gap between his IPL dominance and his international output. A wounded tiger is often the most dangerous, and this series presents the perfect stage for the captain to silence his critics and return to his destructive best.

Also READ: Virat Kohli picks his favourite innings from the South Africa ODI series

South Africa Women wrapped up the three-match T20I series with a game to spare after a commanding 65-run win over Ireland Women in the second T20I in Paarl. A composed half-century from Faye Tunnicliffe and a late-overs assault from Dane van Niekerk powered the hosts to a formidable 201 for 5, before Ireland’s chase faltered despite resistance from Orla Prendergast and Leah Paul.

Faye Tunnicliffe anchors South Africa’ start before Dane van Niekerk delivers a fiery finish

Making her return to international cricket, van Niekerk smashed 41 off just 19 balls, turning a solid South African innings into a daunting total. Her blitz featured three fours and three sixes, lifting the scoring rate past ten an over. She eventually fell to Arlene Kelly, but not before pushing South Africa beyond the 200-run mark for the second straight match.

Her late fireworks perfectly complemented opener Faye Tunnicliffe, who struck her maiden T20I fifty – a measured 40-ball half-century. Alongside Sune Luus, the pair put on a crucial 78-run opening stand, giving South Africa the ideal platform.

Chloe Tryon then added a rapid 16 not out off seven balls, also overtaking Lizelle Lee’s record for the most sixes by a South African in women’s T20Is (49).

Ireland seamer Aimee Maguire was the standout bowler for the visitors, claiming 3 for 43, including the wickets of Tunnicliffe, Luus and captain Laura Wolvaardt.

Ireland’s cautious start undermines their chase

Chasing 202, Ireland began conservatively, crawling to 33 without loss in the powerplay. The slow tempo proved costly as Tryon removed both openers – Amy Hunter and Gaby Lewis – to leave Ireland struggling at 35 for 2.

Although Ireland never threatened the target, they found stability through a determined third-wicket partnership. Leah Paul (40 off 29) and Orla Prendergast (51 not out off 43) put on 76 runs, showcasing composure but little acceleration as the required rate soared beyond reach.

Also READ: Fans react as Laura Wolvaardt’s century powers South Africa to commanding 105-run victory over Ireland in 1st T20I

Prendergast eventually reached her half-century in the final over, but by then the match had long drifted away. Ireland finished on 136 for 3, well short of the daunting total.

South Africa takes 2-0 lead in the three-match T20I series #cricket #SAWvIREW #T20I pic.twitter.com/r78FtOhioY

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) December 8, 2025

With the series now sealed at 2-0, South Africa’s dominant batting displays – built on depth, aggression and van Niekerk’s impactful return – have been the standout story. Ireland, meanwhile, will look for sharper intent and improved powerplay execution in the final T20I to avoid a whitewash.

Also READ: “I need to clarify that…” – Smriti Mandhana calls off her wedding with Palash Muchhal

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

The highly anticipated IPL 2026 mini-auction is scheduled for December 16 in Abu Dhabi, where 1,355 players will compete for 77 available slots across 10 franchise squads. Collectively, the franchises have a combined purse of ₹237.55 crore to build competitive teams for the upcoming season. This auction follows a period of dramatic player retention and release activity announced on November 15, which has reshaped the squads and left franchises hunting for key assets, especially versatile all-rounders. Teams are also contending with a rule capping overseas players at 31, adding a strategic layer to their acquisitions.

Kolkata Knight Riders currently have the biggest purse at ₹64.3 crore and the most slots to fill with 13, while Mumbai Indians have the least funds available at just ₹2.75 crore for a minimal roster reshuffle. Chennai Super Kings, coming off a tough IPL 2025 campaign finishing last, have released high-profile players like Rachin Ravindra to free up ₹43.4 crore for rebuilding efforts. With the mini-auction looming, all eyes are on potential game-changers, and among them, Ravindra stands out as a prime target due to his multi-dimensional skill set and promising IPL track record.

Rachin Ravindra’s promising IPL trajectory

New Zealand all-rounder Ravindra burst onto the IPL scene with Chennai Super Kings in 2024, snapped up for ₹1.8 crore before an explosive debut game against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. Across 18 CSK matches, he amassed 413 runs at a strike rate of 143.90, including two fifties—his best 65*—with 40 fours and 16 sixes, though wickets eluded him. In IPL 2025, retained via RTM for ₹4 crore, he featured in eight games for 191 runs at 128.18 strike rate, highlighted by another 65*, but CSK let him go post a lean team campaign. Now in the ₹2 crore base-price bracket, his left-handed top-order aggression and slow left-arm spin make him a hot commodity for franchises craving balance.

5 franchises that can bid for Rachin Ravindra in IPL 2026 auction

1. Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals are prime contenders to vie for Ravindra’s services in this auction. With ₹21.80 crore left in their purse and eight slots to fill, including multiple overseas spots, DC is aiming to strengthen their top order after releasing players like Jake Fraser-McGurk and Faf du Plessis. Ravindra’s ability to bat aggressively in the top order, coupled with his spin bowling, fits Delhi’s strategy to add firepower and variety alongside key players like KL Rahul and Prithvi Shaw.

2. Gujarat Titans

Gujarat Titans, holding ₹12.9 crore and five vacancies after releasing Gerald Coetzee, see Ravindra as a fitting all-rounder to complement their existing spinning stalwart Rashid Khan and batting anchor Shubman Gill. His ability to contribute in both departments can offer GT the extra balance required to sustain their competitive edge.

3. Mumbai Indians

Despite a modest remaining purse of just ₹2.75 crore, Mumbai Indians may target Ravindra as a cost-effective, impact player due to his dynamic batting and useful spin bowling. MI, having released a few fringe players, need versatile all-round options to support established stars and fill gaps in finishing roles or as a fifth bowler.

Also READ: 5 franchises that can target Liam Livingstone in the IPL 2026 auction

4. Lucknow Super Giants

Lucknow Super Giants, with ₹22.95 crore and six slots including four overseas, are on the lookout for left-handed batting reinforcements after releasing David Miller and Ravi Bishnoi. Ravindra’s dual ability to open or stabilize innings with the bat and provide slow bowling options makes him an attractive candidate for LSG to bolster their middle order alongside key pace and spin weapons.

5. Kolkata Knight Riders

Kolkata Knight Riders come into the auction with the biggest purse of ₹64.3 crore and a dozen vacancies. Post departures like Andre Russell and Venkatesh Iyer, KKR is searching for dependable opening partners to Sunil Narine and spin depth with Varun Chakaravarthy. Ravindra’s left-handed aggressive batting style and slow orthodox spin perspective fit perfectly into KKR’s rebuilding blueprint, likely inciting a bidding war for his services.

Also READ: Glenn Maxwell issues a touching statement after withdrawing from the IPL 2026 auction

Virat Kohli capped off a sensational return to ODI cricket by choosing his favourite innings from India’s 2-1 series win over South Africa – a series in which he struck 135, 102 and 65 not out and earned his 20th Player of the Series award in international cricket.

Virat Kohli rediscovers vintage form with series-winning brilliance against South Africa

The 36-year-old admitted that the three-match contest marked his most complete batting display in several years, describing the experience as “freeing” and “deeply satisfying.”

“Playing the way I have in this series has been the most satisfying thing for me,” Kohli said after India’s nine-wicket win in the Vizag decider. “I don’t think I have played at this level for a good 2-3 years now. I feel really free in my mind. The whole game is coming together nicely.”

Across the series, Kohli struck 12 sixes, more than any other batter, reflecting a renewed attacking instinct. He said he intentionally pushed his scoring boundaries, allowing himself to take more calculated risks.

Kohli reveals his best knock of the South Africa ODI series

Although all three innings were pivotal, Kohli singled out his 135 at Ranchi, his 52nd ODI hundred, as the standout. That knock set up India’s narrow 17-run win in the series opener and helped unlock the rhythm he felt had been missing from his game.

“I hadn’t played a game since Australia,” Kohli said. “To come out and start hitting the ball well – you just know when your energy is right on the day. It gives you confidence to take risks. When they come off, it unlocks that zone as a batsman which you crave for. Ranchi was very special because it opened me up in a way I hadn’t felt for a while.”

Kohli explained that the emotional and technical clarity he felt in Ranchi carried through the rest of the series, allowing him to bat with fluency and power.

Kohli opens up about his mental battle against batting

Reflecting on a career that has spanned nearly 16 years, Kohli acknowledged that even the greatest players experience periods of uncertainty.

“When you play for that long, you’re going to have phases where you doubt your ability,” he said. “As a batsman you’re relying on one mistake – that’s all it takes. So you tend to go into a space where you feel maybe you’re not good enough. The nerves take over. That’s the beauty of sport.”

Also READ: Fans go gaga as Yashasvi Jaiswal’s maiden century and Virat Kohli’s brilliance lead India to an emphatic ODI series win over South Africa

Kohli said overcoming that fear is part of the craft: “Every ball you play, and eventually every long innings, helps you get back into that confident zone. It’s a journey of learning and getting to know yourself better.”

He added that batting has played a major role in shaping who he is: “It improves you as a person. Your temperament becomes more balanced. Yes, I’ve had phases where I’ve doubted myself, and I’m not shy to admit it. It’s human.”

With his form peaking again, Kohli’s recent performance suggests a reinvigorated chapter in his ODI journey – and a reminder of why he remains one of cricket’s most feared big-match players.

Also READ: When will Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli play their next game for Team India?

Veteran Indian off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has offered a detailed analysis of Chennai Super Kings’ (CSK) auction strategy for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, which is defined by their need to reinforce the squad after a dismal previous season. With a sizable purse of INR 43.40 crore, the five-time champions are expected to make aggressive bids for players who fit their specific requirements, particularly after the withdrawal of key international names like Glenn Maxwell from the auction.

Ravichandran Ashwin picks CSK’s top priority for the IPL 2026 auction

Ashwin pinpointed which players he believes CSK will prioritize to fill the voids in their squad, focusing first on an Indian all-rounder who was released after a lackluster 2025 season. He also identified an England’s power-hitter as the perfect overseas replacement for a vacant slot.

“CSK’s first priority will be Venkatesh Iyer. They would have thought of Maxwell in the other slot. Now that he’s out, it’ll be Livingstone,” Ashwin said on his YouTube channel, making clear the tactical shifts dictated by player availability.

This prediction comes despite Iyer’s underwhelming IPL 2025 campaign with KKR, following a whopping INR 23.75 crore mega-auction price, and Iyer registering a maximum base price of INR 2 crore for the current auction. Meanwhile, Liam Livingstone (released by RCB) has shown his form by smashing an unbeaten 82 in the ILT20 2025, making him a prime overseas target. The space for these big buys was created by the release of players like Matheesha Pathirana, a move Ashwin termed a very calculative call. He explained the goal was to free up funds to chase marquee all-rounders:

“Most teams felt Andre Russell would be in the auction even before release. With that in mind, CSK wanted to pick Russell or Cameron Green. But they had no chance with 30 crores, and hence, Matheesha Pathirana looked like a very obvious release.”  Ashwin concluded.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin names uncapped youngster CSK should target in the IPL 2026 auction

Chennai Super Kings’ IPL 2025 performance under MS Dhoni

The need for a significant strategic overhaul, as outlined by Ashwin, stems directly from the Chennai Super Kings’ disastrous performance in the 2025 season, one of the worst in the franchise’s celebrated history. The team struggled with consistency, both home and away, culminating in a historically poor finish in the league standings.

The poor showing led to an urgent need for an aggressive reset:

• Final Position: 10th Place (Last)
• Matches Played: 14
• Matches Won: 4
• Matches Lost: 10
• Key Stat: For the first time in their history, CSK lost five matches at their home ground, the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium.
• Elimination: They were the first team to be officially eliminated from playoff contention.

Despite the team’s collective failure, a few players maintained their output, with Shivam Dube finishing as the top run-scorer, and Afghanistan’s spinner Noor Ahmad leading the bowling charts with 24 wickets. This final standing, coupled with the need to acquire high-impact players, validates the necessity of their current large auction purse (the second largest in the league) as they seek to rebuild the core of the squad.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin suggests 3 players CSK should target in the IPL 2026 auction

The unexpected end to one of India‘s most discussed celebrity relationships took a dramatic turn on Sunday, as music composer Palash Muchhal issued a heartfelt statement shortly after Indian cricket star Smriti Mandhana confirmed that their wedding had been called off. What was meant to be a joyous celebration in Sangli on November 24 has now spiralled into a wave of speculation, emotional disclosures, and stern warnings against the spread of misinformation.

Palash Muchhal confirms separation with Smriti Mandhana

Minutes after Smriti publicly acknowledged that her wedding with Palash had been cancelled, the composer shared his own message through Instagram Stories. In a brief but emotionally charged note, Palash stated that he has chosen to step away from the relationship and focus on rebuilding his life.

“I have decided to move on in my life and step back from my personal relationship,” he wrote, marking his first public comment since news of the called-off wedding surfaced. The two had kept their relationship largely private until the wedding preparations in Sangli made headlines in late November.

Palash refutes rumours and urges public to stop believing gossips

Addressing swirling rumours that alleged he had cheated on Smriti during the pre-wedding events, Palash firmly denied any wrongdoing. Without naming anyone, he expressed disappointment at the speed with which unverified claims had spread across social media.

“It’s been very difficult for me to see people react so easily on baseless rumours about something that has been most sacred to me,” he wrote. Calling the split the ‘most difficult phase’ of his life, Palash appealed for empathy and maturity from the public.

He added, “I truly hope we, as a society, learn to pause before judging someone based on unverified gossip. Our words can wound in ways we may never understand.”

Composer warns of legal action against defamatory content

In a more assertive tone, Palash revealed that his team would pursue legal measures against individuals and platforms circulating false allegations. According to him, several posts and videos had crossed into defamatory territory, forcing him to respond formally.

“My team will be taking strict legal action against those spreading false and defamatory content,” he wrote, thanking those who had supported him through what he described as an emotionally overwhelming period.

Also READ: “I need to clarify that…”: Smriti Mandhana calls off her wedding with Palash Muchhal

Timeline of dramatic events

Palash and Smriti were set to marry in Sangli on November 24, with several Indian women’s team members already present for the celebrations. Pre-wedding events had begun smoothly, offering glimpses of joy and togetherness. However, on the morning of the wedding day, Smriti’s manager informed attendees that the ceremony had been postponed indefinitely due to her father’s sudden hospitalisation. By afternoon, reports emerged that Palash and his family had flown back to Mumbai, where he, too, was later admitted for medical care.

Smriti’s announcement that the wedding was officially called off, followed by Palash’s confirmation of the breakup, has now brought closure—albeit painful—to a whirlwind week for both families.

Also READ: BCCI announces complete schedule for WPL 2026; Royal Challengers Bengaluru will battle Mumbai Indians in the opener

With the IPL 2026 mini-auction approaching, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) find themselves in a peculiar position. Having retained a strong core of players, including the likes of Virat Kohli and Josh Hazlewood, the team possesses a solid foundation. However, their remaining purse of just INR 16.4 crore and a tight limit of eight available slots (including two overseas) means their strategy must be one of surgical precision, prioritizing impact players over big-name splurges.

The focus for RCB will be on filling specific tactical gaps: a potent Indian wrist-spinner, a high-impact overseas pacer, and bolstering the Indian middle-order depth. Let’s have a look at such players who may fit on RCB’s radar and the strategic rationale behind each target.

5 players RCB can bid for in IPL 2026 auction

1. Cameron Green

Green represents a rare, match-winning package of power-hitting, seam bowling, and elite fielding. While previously a part of the RCB setup before being traded, his availability makes him an instant target.

• Why RCB needs him: He offers stability and striking ability in the middle order, and his bowling provides a crucial high-pace option.
• IPL career: M: 29 | Runs: 707 @ 41.59 (SR: 153.70) | Wickets: 16 (Eco: 9.05)
• The challenge: With other franchises also showing keen interest, Green is projected to command a price tag that could consume half or more of RCB’s entire remaining purse. Signing him would be an all-or-nothing move, likely precluding a major spend on the other overseas slot.

2. Anrich Nortje

The South African speedster is one of the most feared fast bowlers in T20 cricket, known for his express pace and ability to deliver in the death overs.

• Why RCB needs him: Despite retaining Josh Hazlewood, RCB often needs a reliable, world-class backup or partner who can handle the pressure of the final overs, particularly on the small Chinnaswamy ground. Nortje would provide immediate pace firepower and much-needed experience.
• IPL career: M: 48 | Wickets: 69 @ 27.16 (Eco: 9.07) | Best: 3/33
• The Challenge: Nortje, also listed in the highest base price bracket (INR 2 Cr), will attract high bidding from teams desperate for a specialist overseas pacer. RCB’s limited purse makes securing him without overspending extremely difficult.

3. Ravi Bishnoi

A wrist-spinner is a luxury in T20 cricket, and Bishnoi is among the best Indian talents. While RCB has spin options, a world-class, wicket-taking leg-spinner offers a different dimension.

• Why RCB needs him: He provides a potent attacking option in the middle overs, a role that complements the control offered by all-rounders. His previous high-value retention status with another franchise suggests high confidence in his ability.
• IPL career: M: 77 | Wickets: 72 @ 31.07 (Eco: 8.22) | Best: 3/24
• The Challenge: Bishnoi has set his base price at the maximum Indian value (INR 2 Cr). While he addresses a key need, his cost means RCB must carefully weigh his value against other domestic targets.

4. Sarfaraz Khan

Following a strong domestic T20 season, Sarfaraz Khan‘s stock is rising. Having previously played for RCB, he understands the environment and can add crucial depth and power to the Indian batting unit.

• Why RCB needs him: He is a dynamic player who can anchor an innings or accelerate late, fulfilling the need for a reliable, high-potential Indian middle-order finisher. He represents a potential high-return investment at a lower cost than international stars.
• IPL career: M: 50 | Runs: 585 @ 22.05 (SR: 130.59) | HS: 67
• The advantage: Targeting Sarfaraz offers a fiscally responsible way to boost the Indian core.

Also READ: Glenn Maxwell issues a touching statement after withdrawing from the IPL 2026 auction

5. Rahul Tripathi

Tripathi is a versatile and aggressive top-order/middle-order Indian batter who brings a high strike rate and extensive IPL experience across multiple franchises.

• Why RCB needs him: If RCB seeks stability or a backup Indian opener/number three who can maximize the powerplay, Tripathi fits the bill perfectly. His ability to score quickly and handle pace bowling makes him a valuable domestic asset.
• IPL career: M: 100 | Runs: 2,291 @ 26.03 (SR: 137.85) | HS: 93
• The advantage: Like Sarfaraz, Tripathi can be acquired relatively cheaply, saving precious funds for the single big overseas player RCB decides to chase.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Auction: Complete list of players with base price of INR 2 crore – From Venkatesh Iyer to Steve Smith

India women’s cricket star Smriti Mandhana has officially confirmed that her wedding to music composer Palash Muchhal has been called off, putting an end to the intense speculation that has dominated social media in recent weeks.

Smriti Mandhana breaks silence on her wedding

In a rare personal statement posted on Instagram, the usually private opener said she felt compelled to address the rumours only because the chatter had spiralled beyond control. “I am a very private person… but I need to clarify that the wedding is called off,” Mandhana wrote, requesting that fans and media “close this matter here” and allow both families space to heal.

Mandhana added that she wants to “process and move on at our own pace,” firmly requesting privacy from all quarters.

Without revealing details behind the decision, Mandhana emphasised that representing India continues to be her highest priority. In her statement, she wrote that there is a “higher purpose driving us all,” and for her, that purpose has always been wearing the India jersey and striving to win trophies for the country.

Her message made it clear that the off-field turmoil will not shift her commitment to cricket. “I hope to continue to play and win trophies for India for as long as possible and that is where my focus will forever be,” she said.

The statement quickly gained traction across social platforms, with fans and fellow athletes expressing support for the 28-year-old opener.

Inside the wedding saga: From celebration plans to heartbreaking cancellation

The Smriti-Palash wedding was originally scheduled for November 23–24 in Mandhana’s hometown of Sangli, Maharashtra. Pre-wedding festivities, including the sangeet, had already begun and several photos and videos were widely shared online, suggesting that the celebrations were underway.

However, in a dramatic turn of events, the wedding was indefinitely postponed on the day of the ceremony. Reports indicated that Smriti’s father, Srinivas Mandhana, suffered a cardiac scare and required hospitalisation, prompting both families to halt all plans. Soon after, Palash and his family returned to Mumbai, with some reports suggesting he too sought brief medical attention due to stress. However, what followed was a burst of speculation across social media.

Smriti later removed multiple wedding-related posts from her Instagram and was seen publicly without her engagement ring, amplifying rumours that the relationship had been called off completely.

Also READ: BCCI announces complete schedule for WPL 2026; Royal Challengers Bengaluru will battle Mumbai Indians in the opener

Smriti requests fans to end marriage rumours 

With online theories spiralling – some of them highly intrusive – Mandhana said she had no choice but to issue a public clarification. She urged fans, media houses and content creators to refrain from drawing conclusions or assigning blame, stating clearly that she does not wish for the subject to be discussed further.

“I would like to close this matter here and implore all of you to do the same,” she wrote. Her appeal is being widely echoed by supporters, who have encouraged the public to respect her boundaries during a difficult personal moment.

Also READ: Smriti Mandhana and Palaash Muchhal’s wedding controversy: After Gulnaaz Khan, Nandika Dwivedi reacts to cheating allegations

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

India’s left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav capped off an impressive show against South Africa with yet another influential performance in the 3rd ODI at Visakhapatnam, playing a key role in India’s 2-1 series victory.

Kuldeep Yadav delivers match-turning spell in Vizag

Bowling on a surface that offered uneven pace and occasional grip, Kuldeep showcased exceptional control, finishing with 4 wickets for 41 runs – one of the most economical and impactful spells of the match.

Throughout the middle overs, he dismantled South Africa’s rhythm by removing vital middle-order batters, consistently deceiving right-handers with his trademark drift, dip and a well-disguised wrong’un. Across all three matches, Kuldeep reaffirmed why he remains India’s premier strike bowler in the middle phase of white-ball games, contributing with breakthroughs whenever the visitors threatened to rebuild.

Sunil Gavaskar’s light-hearted query from Kuldeep steals the post-match show

Following India’s series win, Kuldeep appeared on the Star Sports post-match show, where batting great Sunil Gavaskar unexpectedly shifted the conversation from cricket to personal life. With a mischievous grin, Gavaskar asked, “Shaadi kab kar rahe ho?” (When are you getting married?)

Kuldeep burst into a smile before giving a witty reply that instantly lit up the studio: “Jald hi… agle saal… New Year pe.” (Very soon… next year… around New Year.)

The cheeky hint – delivered with perfect comic timing – drew laughter from the panel and quickly ignited buzz online.

Within minutes, the interaction was circulating widely on X and Instagram, with fans posting humorous reactions, memes and mock wedding invitations. Some supporters joked that India had secured “a series win and a wedding announcement,” while others applauded Kuldeep for answering a personal question with charm instead of avoiding it.

Several fan pages shared edits celebrating both his on-field brilliance and off-field milestone, while others quipped that Gavaskar had “bowled the toughest delivery of the match.”

Also READ: Gautam Gambhir blasts IPL team owner over ‘split coaching’ demand following India’s ODI series win against South Africa

A look at Kuldeep’s relationship with Vanshika

For those unfamiliar with the story, Kuldeep is engaged to his childhood friend Vanshika, with the couple formalising their relationship in a private ceremony at Lucknow on June 4, 2025. Their engagement was attended by close family and a few teammates, including good friend Rinku Singh.

Vanshika, who works with LIC and has studied in Australia, shares a long-standing connection with Kuldeep, with their bond evolving over years from friendship to romance.

Also READ: Kuldeep Yadav reveals his DRS banter with Rohit Sharma in India’s ODI series finale against South Africa