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



Liam Livingstone, the explosive English all-rounder, was released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, primarily due to a below-par IPL 2025 season where he struggled to justify his INR 8.75 crore price tag (scoring 112 runs in 8 innings).

However, Livingstone remains one of the most destructive T20 players globally, known for his brute power-hitting, versatility in the batting order, and the rare ability to bowl both leg-spin and off-spin (match-up bowling). His recent form in T20 leagues has been explosive, including an unbeaten 82 off 38 balls for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders in the ILT20 2025 league against Sharjah Warriors. Teams needing a high-impact, multi-faceted overseas finisher who can provide flexible spin bowling will see him as a massive value pick, especially since he is available at a potentially lower price than his previous retention.

5 franchises that can target Liam Livingstone in the IPL 2026 mini-auction

1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

CSK will enter the auction with the second-largest purse of INR 43.40 crore and a huge void in their overseas all-rounder department following the trade of Sam Curran. CSK desperately needs a versatile middle-order batter who can finish games and provide a quality spin option. Livingstone perfectly fills this role, bringing explosive batting for the lower-middle order and the unique flexibility of spin bowling that is highly valued on the Chepauk surface. With their significant budget, CSK will be a primary bidder, viewing him as the ideal high-impact, multi-skill replacement to maintain their traditional squad balance.

2. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

KKR possesses the largest auction purse of INR 64.30 crore and has a clear priority: replacing the overseas all-rounder firepower lost with the release of Andre Russell. While Cameron Green is a likely top target, Livingstone offers a proven, destructive alternative. KKR needs an overseas batter who can come in at the death and bowl a few tight overs. Livingstone’s ability to clear the long boundaries at the Eden Gardens and his flexible spin bowling make him a perfect fit for KKR’s historically aggressive, all-rounder-heavy strategy. Their massive financial resources mean they can outbid any competitor for his services.

3. Punjab Kings (PBKS)

Punjab Kings (PBKS) have a moderate purse of INR 11.50 crore but a history with Livingstone, for whom he enjoyed his best IPL season in 2022. PBKS recently released Glenn Maxwell and needs to acquire an overseas power-hitter for their middle and lower order to support retained players like Mitchell Owen and Shashank Singh. Livingstone’s familiarity with the franchise, his proven success batting anywhere from number 3 to 6, and his destructive power match PBKS’s strategy of fearless, high-scoring cricket. For a team that needs a high-impact overseas player within a limited budget, Livingstone offers a known quantity and immense value.

Also READ: IPL 2026: 5 franchises that can target Abhimanyu Easwaran in the mini-auction

4. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH)

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) has a strong purse of INR 25.50 crore and is known for investing in aggressive, high-upside players. SRH needs to add more firepower and depth to their middle order, which has occasionally been inconsistent. Livingstone could slot in perfectly at number 5 or 6, providing a feared counter-attacking option if the top order collapses, or accelerating ruthlessly when set. Furthermore, his flexible spin options would add crucial balance to a team that often relies heavily on its fast bowlers. His profile aligns with SRH’s current philosophy of maximizing T20 aggression.

5. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

Despite releasing him due to his high price tag, RCB may still target Livingstone if he falls to a reasonable price, as they have a purse of INR 16.40 crore. RCB needs to fill two overseas slots, and their immediate priority will be securing a specialist fast bowler (like Anrich Nortje) and an all-rounder. Livingstone is a familiar face who understands the Chinnaswamy dynamics. If their primary overseas all-rounder targets (like Green or another big-name) prove too expensive, buying back Livingstone would ensure they secure a proven, high-impact all-rounder whom the management and retained core know well.

Also READ: IPL 2026: 5 franchises that can target Anrich Nortje in the mini-auction



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WATCH: KL Rahul’s epic celebration after India ends toss jinx | IND vs SA, 3rd ODI
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WATCH: KL Rahul’s epic celebration after India ends toss jinx | IND vs SA, 3rd ODI



The third and final ODI between India and South Africa in Visakhapatnam is a winner-takes-all affair, with the series tied at 1-1. All attention was fixed on the coin toss, which has become a source of mounting anxiety and statistical absurdity for the Indian team. Prior to the match, India suffered an extraordinary and statistically improbable streak of 20 consecutive toss defeats in the ODI format. This record run began after their last toss victory in the ICC World Cup semi-final 2023, putting immense pressure on captain KL Rahul to finally change the team’s luck.

KL Rahul’s epic celebration after breaking India’s toss curse; Temba Bavuma couldn’t stop smiling

When Rahul finally flipped the coin in the air for the decisive match, South Africa captain Temba Bavuma called ‘heads’, but the coin landed as ‘tails,’ ending the agonizing world-record streak of 20 consecutive ODI toss losses. The moment the result was confirmed, relief washed over Rahul, who let out a huge smile and performed an emphatic fist pump in the air, a rare and joyous display of emotion for the usually reserved captain.

The sheer improbability of the run led the crowd in Vizag to erupt in stunned joy and celebration, with India’s players on the sidelines also jumping in delight at the sight of the streak finally being broken. South Africa captain Bavuma, who had been calling correctly for most of the previous games, could not hide his own amusement and was seen smiling broadly at Rahul’s over-the-top celebration. Rahul, perhaps taking a superstitious measure, had even changed his routine by reportedly using his left hand to flip the coin for the first time, a peculiar “hack” that appeared to work. Given the threat of heavy dew, which had been a critical factor in the previous matches, Rahul had no hesitation and immediately decided that India would bowl first in the series decider.

Here’s the video:

Also READ: IND vs SA, 3rd ODI: Here’s why Washington Sundar is not playing today’s match in Visakhapatnam

Quinton de Kock’s blitz and Temba Bavuma’s solid knock power South Africa’s recovery in 3rd ODI

South Africa made a strong recovery in the 3rd ODI against India at Visakhapatnam, reaching 168/3 in 28.2 overs, thanks to a scintillating 93 not out from Quinton de Kock and a vital 48 from Temba Bavuma. India, who opted to field, initially struck early, dismissing Ryan Rickelton for a duck. However, de Kock played a blistering knock, hitting 8 fours and 5 sixes, with his strike rate touching 122.36, while Bavuma anchored the innings with a patient knock, adding 114 runs for the second wicket. Matthew Breetzke also contributed with a quick-fire 24 off 23 balls before being dismissed. The fall of wickets at crucial junctures, though, slowed down South Africa’s progress. India, with some tight bowling from Arshdeep Singh and Prasidh Krishna, will aim to wrap up the South African innings quickly in the second half of the match.

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



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IND vs SA: Fans go berserk as Quinton de Kock equals Kumar Sangakkara’s record with his 23rd ODI century in Visakhapatnam
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IND vs SA: Fans go berserk as Quinton de Kock equals Kumar Sangakkara’s record with his 23rd ODI century in Visakhapatnam



Quinton de Kock’s 23rd ODI century, an elegant 106 off 89 balls, has put him in the spotlight once again, leading South Africa’s charge in the 3rd and final ODI against India in Visakhapatnam. De Kock’s knock was the highlight of the day, coming at a critical time after early wickets fell. He formed two vital partnerships, one with captain Temba Bavuma (113 runs) and another with Matthew Breetzke (54 runs), before being dismissed shortly after reaching his hundred. His innings not only guided South Africa to a challenging total but also set several records, solidifying his place among the ODI greats.

Quinton de Kock surpasses milestones with this 23rd ODI century during Vizag game vs India

De Kock’s remarkable century took him to several new milestones in his career. With this knock, he surpassed 8,500 runs in List A cricket, having accumulated 8,503 runs in 202 matches at an average of over 44. This century also marked his 7th against India in ODIs, equaling Sanath Jayasuriya’s record for most centuries by any player against India in ODIs. He now has 1,191 runs against India at an average of 51.78. In addition, de Kock achieved 2,500 runs in away ODIs (home of opposition) with this innings.

His 23rd ODI century ties him with Sri Lanka’s Kumar Sangakkara for the most centuries by a designated wicketkeeper, a feat he shares with the legendary Lankan keeper. Moreover, de Kock continues to close in on 2,000 runs in Asia, a region where he has been particularly successful, with 1,981 runs to his name at an average of 53.80. His consistent performances have now placed him ahead of ODI legends like David Warner, Sourav Ganguly and Tillakaratne Dilshan, who have 22 tons each.

Here’s how fans reacted: 

Also WATCH: KL Rahul’s epic celebration after India ends toss jinx | IND vs SA, 3rd ODI

De Kock’s century lifts South Africa to comfortable place in final ODI against India

De Kock’s brilliant 106 off 89 balls powered South Africa to a competitive total of 244/7 in the third ODI against India in Visakhapatnam so far in 40 overs. After an early setback, losing Ryan Rickelton for a duck, de Kock anchored the innings with a solid partnership of 113 runs alongside Temba Bavuma. Despite losing Bavuma and other key wickets, de Kock kept the momentum going with a crucial 54-run stand with Matthew Breetzke. His century came from 80 balls, and though he was dismissed shortly after reaching the milestone by Prasidh Krishna, de Kock’s knock ensured South Africa had a fighting total. Kuldeep Yadav and Prasidh Krishna were the standout bowlers for India, picking up key wickets. South Africa will now look to their lower order to add some late runs and post a challenging total.

Also READ: IND vs SA, 3rd ODI: Here’s why Washington Sundar is not playing today’s match in Visakhapatnam





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Highest partnership for 7th wicket in 4th innings of a Test match ft. Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach
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Highest partnership for 7th wicket in 4th innings of a Test match ft. Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach



Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach carved their names into Test cricket history after producing a record-breaking, unbeaten seventh-wicket stand to rescue West Indies in the first Test against New Zealand at Hagley Oval, Christchurch. The duo added 180 unbroken runs in the fourth innings – the highest seventh-wicket partnership ever recorded in a Test run chase – to deny the hosts victory in the opening match of the 2025-27 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle.

Chasing a monumental target of 531, West Indies were staring at defeat at 277/6 on the final day when Greaves and Roach joined forces. However, what followed was one of the greatest acts of defiance by a lower order in modern Test cricket.

Justin Greaves’ double ton and Kemar Roach’s career-best resistance rewrites records

Greaves produced a monumental innings under pressure, finishing on a marathon 202 not out off 388 balls, holding the innings together with remarkable composure and stamina. Roach, better known for his new-ball spells than his batting, played the innings of his life – a gritty 58 not out off 233 deliveries, the most balls ever faced by a No. 8 or lower in a fourth innings.

Together they consumed 409 balls, blunting a world-class New Zealand attack under fading light and rising tension in Christchurch.

Their unbeaten 180-run partnership surpassed the long-standing record of 160 set by Sachin Tendulkar and Manoj Prabhakar for India against Pakistan at Old Trafford in 1990 – previously the highest seventh-wicket stand in the last innings of a Test match.

While the overall Test seventh-wicket record still belongs to West Indies’ Denis Atkinson and Clairmonte Depeiaza (347 vs Australia, 1955), Greaves and Roach now hold the distinction of owning the premier stand in the uniquely challenging setting of a fourth-innings Test chase.

Also READ: Andre Russell reveals his toughest IPL opponent and the most challenging bowler he has faced

Top 7th-wicket stands in the fourth innings of Test matches

  • Justin Greaves & Roston Chase (West Indies) – 180* vs New Zealand, Christchurch, 2025
  • Sachin Tendulkar & Manoj Prabhakar (India) – 160 vs England, Manchester, 1990
  • Richie Benaud & Alan Davidson (Australia) – 134 vs West Indies, Brisbane, 1960
  • Ajit Agarkar & VVS Laxman (India) – 126 vs England, Lord’s, 2002
  • Asoka de Silva & Ravi Ratnayeke (Sri Lanka) – 124 vs Australia, Hobart, 1989
  • Jacob Oram & Daniel Vettori (New Zealand) – 124 vs Sri Lanka, Colombo (SSC), 2009
  • Dave Nourse & Gordon White (South Africa) – 121 vs England, Johannesburg, 190

Also READ: NZ vs WI – Fans go wild as Justin Greaves’ stunning double ton leads West Indies to historic draw in 1st Test against New Zealand



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WBBL|11: Beth Mooney steers Perth Scorchers into the play-offs with emphatic win over Brisbane Heat
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WBBL|11: Beth Mooney steers Perth Scorchers into the play-offs with emphatic win over Brisbane Heat



Beth Mooney once again demonstrated why she remains one of the elite performers in women’s T20 cricket, crafting a sublime 94* off 61 balls to propel Perth Scorchers to a commanding seven-wicket victory over Brisbane Heat and seal a place in the WBBL|11 playoffs.

Beth Mooney dominates Perth Scorchers’ chase with class and control

Chasing 165, Mooney anchored the innings with signature calmness and precision, taking the Scorchers home with four balls to spare at the WACA on Saturday, December 6.

The triumph not only strengthens Perth’s position in the finals race but also eliminates any lingering hope for the Heat, who finish the season without a single win.

Opening the innings, Mooney was in complete command from ball one, striking 12 fours in a fluent knock that showcased her ability to shift gears effortlessly. Her innings was a blend of touch and timing, ensuring the Scorchers never lost grip on the required rate while also shielding her inexperienced middle order from scoreboard pressure.

Mooney built three crucial partnerships throughout the chase:

  • 42 for the first wicket with Katie Mack (10 off 13), laying the platform
  • 67 for the second wicket with Maddy Darke (24 off 22), stabilising after early innings movement
  • 37 for the third wicket with skipper Sophie Devine (13 off 14), pushing the chase into the death overs

England all-rounder Freya Kemp provided a late flourish, staying unbeaten on 12 off 6 balls, as the Scorchers crossed the line with a confident finish.

Mooney’s unbeaten 94 – one of her finest innings in orange – puts her firmly in the conversation for the WBBL|11 Player of the Tournament, especially given her consistency at the top of the order.

Georgia Redmayne leads Brisbane Heat’s effort, but winless season ends bitterly

Earlier, Brisbane Heat posted 164/7, a competitive total built around Georgia Redmayne’s excellently paced 57 off 47 balls. Redmayne found pockets of momentum through the middle overs, but regular wickets prevented the Heat from accelerating into the 170-180 region needed to challenge a strong Scorchers top order.

Despite useful cameos, Heat’s inability to convert starts once again cost them dearly – a recurring theme in a campaign that ends without a win. Their bowling attack showed initial discipline but had no answers to Mooney’s measured assault.

Also READ: Georgia Voll’s brilliant all-round performance leads Sydney Thunder to a dominant victory over Melbourne Stars in the WBBL|11 clash

WBBL|11 finals scenario: Scorchers’ knockout path hinges on Sydney Sixers and Adelaide Strikers result

With the victory, the Scorchers have guaranteed a spot in the WBBL|11 knockout phase, but their exact route to the final will be determined by the result of Sydney Sixers versus Adelaide Strikers on Sunday.

If Sixers win:

  • Sixers finish 2nd
  • Scorchers drop to 3rd
  • Scorchers must win both the knockout and challenger to reach the final

If Sixers lose:

  • Scorchers secure 2nd place
  • They go straight into the Challenger, needing only one win to face Hobart Hurricanes in the 13 December final

Regardless of results elsewhere, Perth’s emphatic display has sent a strong message: with Beth Mooney in peak form and their batting unit clicking, the Scorchers are a major threat heading into the playoffs of WBBL|11.

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

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





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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
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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



India clinched the three-match ODI series against South Africa with a commanding 9-wicket victory in the decisive third game at Visakhapatnam’s Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium on December 6, 2025. Chasing 271, the hosts raced to the target in just 39.5 overs, sealing a 2-1 series win after splitting the first two encounters. Yashasvi Jaiswal‘s unbeaten 116 anchored the chase, marking his first ODI hundred, while Quinton de Kock‘s gritty 106 powered South Africa’s 270 all out in 47.5 overs.​

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s breakthrough century steals spotlight

Jaiswal smashed his maiden ODI century, remaining not out on 116 from 121 balls with 12 fours and 2 sixes, earning Player of the Match honours. Opening alongside Rohit Sharma, who fell for 75 off 73 (7×4, 3×6) at 155/1 in the 26th over to Keshav Maharaj, Jaiswal reached his fifty off 75 balls before accelerating past three figures off 111 deliveries. Virat Kohli, unbeaten on 65 from 45 balls (6×4, 3×6), provided explosive support in an unbroken 116-run stand, his series-dominating form fetching Player of the Series award amid consistent brilliance across the rubber.​

Earlier, South Africa started strongly with De Kock and Temba Bavuma (48 off 67) adding 113 for the second wicket, reaching 100 by the 19th over after De Kock’s fifty off 42 balls. Prasidh Krishna sparked the collapse, claiming 4-66 including de Kock (32.5th over at 199/5), Matthew Breetzke (lbw, 28.2nd), Aiden Markram, and Ottneil Baartman. Kuldeep Yadav‘s 4-41 dismantled the lower order, removing Dewald Brevis (29), Marco Jansen (17), Corbin Bosch, and Lungi Ngidi as South Africa slipped from 234/6 to 270 all out, extras contributing 12.​

India’s dominant chase seals emphatic series conquest against South Africa

India’s pursuit began steadily in the powerplay, amassing 48 without loss before surging to 50 in 10.1 overs with 10 extras aiding the openers’ 150-run platform by the 25th over. Post Rohit, Kohli’s fifty off 40 balls ignited the finish, the duo racing to 250 in 38.2 overs with back-to-back boundaries underscoring South Africa’s bowling woes—Ngidi (0-56), Baartman (0-60), and Bosch (0-53) leaked runs freely.​

This series-clinching performance highlighted India’s batting depth and spin prowess, with Jaiswal’s ton silencing doubters after modest prior outings and Kohli reinforcing his white-ball stature. Fans erupted in Visakhapatnam, hailing the young opener’s arrival on the big stage as India builds momentum ahead of upcoming white-ball fixtures.

Also WATCH: Virat Kohli shares light-hearted bromance moment with Kuldeep during Vizag ODI

Here’s how fans reacted:

Also WATCH: KL Rahul’s epic celebration after India ends toss jinx | IND vs SA, 3rd ODI





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IND vs SA [WATCH]: Virat Kohli shares light-hearted bromance moment with Kuldeep Yadav during Vizag ODI
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IND vs SA [WATCH]: Virat Kohli shares light-hearted bromance moment with Kuldeep Yadav during Vizag ODI



India hosted South Africa in the decisive third ODI of the series at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Saturday, with the three-match contest locked at 1-1.

Captain KL Rahul finally broke India’s streak of 20 consecutive lost tosses in ODIs by winning the flip and opting to bowl first, factoring in anticipated dew during the chase. This strategic call set the stage for a disciplined Indian bowling effort that restricted South Africa to 270 all out in 47.5 overs, despite Quinton de Kock‘s aggressive seventh ODI century against India (106 off 89 balls, including 8 fours and 6 sixes).​

Virat Kohli-Kuldeep Yadav dance steals spotlight amid wicket fest in Visakhapatnam

Virat Kohli brought infectious joy to the field with a hilarious bromance moment alongside Kuldeep Yadav during South Africa’s innings collapse. In the 43rd over, Kuldeep claimed his third victim, Corbin Bosch, via a sharp return catch off a googly, derailing the Proteas’ late surge. Kohli rushed over, grabbed Kuldeep’s hands, and launched into playful couple-dance moves with a straight-faced swagger that cracked up the spinner and sent the crowd into frenzy.​

The clip exploded across social media platforms, captivating fans with Kohli’s rare lighthearted antics amid his vintage series form featuring back-to-back hundreds. This viral celebration underscored the team’s camaraderie as they shifted momentum decisively. Kuldeep’s wizardry peaked with match figures of 4/41 in 10 overs, including strikes to dismantle the lower order after Bosch’s dismissal.​

Here’s the video:

Also READ: IND vs SA, 3rd ODI: Here’s why Washington Sundar is not playing today’s match in Visakhapatnam

Indian bowlers orchestrate Proteas collapse to a below-par total

Prasidh Krishna sparked the turnaround with a devastating second spell, snaring 4/66 by dismantling South Africa’s middle order – trapping Matthew Breetzke lbw, inducing Aiden Markram‘s catch to Kohli at short cover, and castling de Kock with a full delivery. After de Kock and Temba Bavuma (48 off 67) built a 113-run stand to reach 168/2, India struck back ruthlessly, losing just three overs to claim three wickets and slump the visitors to 199/5.​

Kuldeep then mopped up, dismissing Dewald Brevis, Marco Jansen, and Bosch to cap South Africa’s innings well short of a competitive total on a batting-friendly Visakhapatnam track. Arshdeep Singh chipped in early by removing Ryan Rickelton, while Ravindra Jadeja snared Bavuma at point off Kohli’s safe hands. This collective effort, blending pace and spin, positioned India strongly for the 271 chase under lights.

Also READ: IND vs SA: Fans go berserk as Quinton de Kock equals Kumar Sangakkara’s record with his 23rd ODI century in Visakhapatnam





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Ashes 2025–26: Fans react as England stare at defeat after Australia dominate Day 3 in pink-ball Test at the Gabba
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Ashes 2025–26: Fans react as England stare at defeat after Australia dominate Day 3 in pink-ball Test at the Gabba



On Day 3 of the second Ashes Test, Australia inched ever closer to a commanding victory, leaving England on the brink of defeat. The Brisbane Cricket Ground witnessed a stark contrast between the two teams as Australia’s bowlers ran riot in England’s second innings, reducing them to 134/6 at the close of play.

England now trail by 43 runs, with just four wickets remaining. England’s batting lineup crumbled under the relentless pressure applied by Australia’s seam attack, led by Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. With England on the back foot, Australia’s bowlers are poised to mop up the tail and take a crucial 2-0 lead in the series. Root’s lone resistance is the only hope for England, but it appears increasingly unlikely that they will be able to stave off defeat as the Australian juggernaut rolls forward.

England’s middle order collapses against Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland

England’s second innings unraveled spectacularly during second session of Day 3, as their middle order capitulated under the pressure from Australia’s pace and swing bowlers. Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett started strong and add quick runs to reduced deficit for England. Ollie Pope and Joe Root tried to steady the ship, but Pope fell quickly to Michael Neser. From there, the wickets continued to tumble, with Harry Brook and Jamie Smith all failing to make significant contributions. Their top and middle order was torn apart by a relentless Starc, Boland, and Neser, who repeatedly found the right lengths and swing to make life difficult. By the end of the day, with England on 134/6, the team’s chances of forcing a draw or staging a comeback were looking increasingly slim.

Australia’s first innings command set the tone for the pink-ball Test

Australia’s first innings of 511 runs set a massive target for England, placing them in a commanding position right from the outset. The Australian batsmen, led by a well-paced innings from Steve Smith (61), ensured they built partnerships at key stages of the innings. However, it was Mitchell Starc’s late-order heroics that took the total past 500, as he struck a crucial 77 off 141 balls, playing with the kind of aggression that took the wind out of England’s sails.

Despite a determined effort from England’s bowlers, particularly Brydon Carse and Gus Atkinson, Australia’s batters showed resilience and scored freely, reaching the 500-run mark without significant disruption. This innings proved to be a crucial turning point in the match, giving Australia not only a solid first-innings lead but also the psychological advantage going into England’s second innings. The sheer weight of the total meant that England’s batters, who struggled in their first innings, were always going to be under intense pressure in their second outing.

Also READ: 5 players Chennai Super Kings (CSK) can target in the IPL 2026 mini-auction

England on the verge of innings defeat against Australia 

With Australia’s dominant performance in both innings, England now stand on the edge of defeat, staring down a tough task of saving the match. Root’s monumental effort in the second innings, currently unbeaten on 138, has been the only positive for England as the rest of the batting order crumbled in a heap. Australia’s bowlers, having already set the tone with a commanding 511-run total, will now look to clean up the tail and dismiss England quickly on Day 4.

England’s frailty is evident, and with only four wickets remaining, the likelihood of them surviving the day is diminishing rapidly. The cracks in England’s batting have been laid bare, and Australia’s bowlers, led by Starc and Boland, will be eager to finish off the job, giving Australia a 2-0 series lead. The match has swung decisively in Australia’s favour, and unless there is an extraordinary turnaround, England’s dreams of levelling the series in Brisbane will be dashed.

Here’s how fans reacted: 

Also READ: Highest partnership for 7th wicket in 4th innings of a Test match ft. Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach





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IND vs SA, 3rd ODI: Here’s why Washington Sundar is not playing today’s match in Visakhapatnam
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IND vs SA, 3rd ODI: Here’s why Washington Sundar is not playing today’s match in Visakhapatnam



India and South Africa clash in the series-deciding third ODI at ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on December 6, 2025, with the scoreline locked at 1-1 after high-scoring thrillers in Ranchi and Raipur. KL Rahul won the toss and opted to bowl first, citing minimal early dew during training and a balanced pitch favouring chases. India made one change, bringing in Tilak Varma, while South Africa introduced Ryan Rickelton and Ottneil Baartman amid injury concerns.

Reason for Washington Sundar sidelined in the final IND vs SA ODI

Washington Sundar misses out on the third ODI as India prioritizes batting depth over his all-round role following underwhelming contributions in the first two matches. Batting at number five, Sundar scored just 13 and 1 run respectively, while his bowling offered little control on flat tracks.

Captain KL Rahul emphasized minimal changes post strong team showings but confirmed the swap for Tilak Varma to bolster middle-order firepower against South Africa’s attack. This move ends an experiment with Sundar in the top order, allowing Jadeja to anchor spin duties alone.

“Just trying to sharpen a couple of things in the field and the results will go our way. One change. Washington Sundar misses out and Tilak Varma comes in,” Rahul said during the toss.

Also READ: Explained: Why no Rinku Singh in India’s T20I squad for South Africa series?

South Africa grapple with injury blows in the series decider

Tony de Zorzi and Nandre Burger sit out due to hamstring injuries sustained in the second ODI in Raipur, ruling them out for weeks and forcing South Africa’s two changes. De Zorzi retired hurt on 17 during the chase after a right hamstring strain in the 45th over, while Burger limped off mid-over with right hamstring discomfort.

Captain Temba Bavuma noted scans confirmed their absence, paving the way for Rickelton’s opening slot and Baartman’s pace role to maintain balance. These absences test Proteas’ depth in the high-stakes finale, where a good start could set up a defendable total on the batting-friendly Visakhapatnam strip.

“We’ve got two changes. Rickelton and Baartman come in. Both of them (Burger and de Zorzi) sustained injuries in the last ODI, I think they’ll be out for a couple of weeks. It’ll give another opportunity for Baartman and Rickelton to deliver,” Bavuma informed during the toss.

Both teams’ XI for the final ODI showdown

South Africa: Ryan Rickelton, Quinton de Kock (wk), Temba Bavuma (c), Matthew Breetzke, Aiden Markram, Dewald Brevis, Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Keshav Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman

India: Rohit Sharma, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Tilak Varma, KL Rahul (wk/c), Ravindra Jadeja, Harshit Rana, Kuldeep Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna

Also READ: Harbhajan Singh slams critics questioning Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s place in the ODI World Cup 2027



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Georgia Voll’s brilliant all-round performance leads Sydney Thunder to a dominant victory over Melbourne Stars in the WBBL|11 clash
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Georgia Voll’s brilliant all-round performance leads Sydney Thunder to a dominant victory over Melbourne Stars in the WBBL|11 clash



Sydney Thunder produced a clinical all-round performance to crush Melbourne Stars by nine wickets in a rain-hit WBBL|11 contest at Junction Oval, Melbourne, with Georgia Voll at the heart of an emphatic victory on Saturday. ​ The match was reduced to a 10-overs-a-side shootout due to persistent showers, but Thunder adapted far better to the truncated conditions to chase down a DLS-adjusted target of 76 with 17 balls to spare. ​

Georgia Voll’s all-round masterclass against Melbourne Stars

Voll delivered a decisive double blow with the ball and then returned to anchor a turbo-charged chase, justifying her Player of the Match and MVP billing. Introduced after a steady Stars start, the off‑spinning all-rounder removed captain Annabel Sutherland for a duck via sharp work from keeper Tahlia Wilson, before dismissing the dangerous Danielle Gibson to derail any late surge, finishing with 2 for 13 in her two overs. Her control through the middle, alongside disciplined spells from Lucy Finn (2 for 10) and Emily Arlott (2 for 18), ensured Stars were squeezed to just 66 for 6 from their 10 overs, despite the platform laid by Rhys McKenna’s brisk 24 off 22 and Meg Lanning’s 13 off 17.​

With the target adjusted to 76 under DLS, Voll shifted seamlessly into aggressor-in-chief after the Powerplay. Coming in alongside an in‑form Phoebe Litchfield, she showcased clean, orthodox ball-striking, racing to an unbeaten 33 off just 18 deliveries, peppered with seven boundaries that repeatedly split the packed off-side field. Even after Litchfield fell for a commanding 37 off 23 balls to Sutherland with only 10 runs needed, Voll remained composed, rotating strike before Laura Harris finished the job with a flurry of attacking strokes, leaving Thunder 79 for 1 in 7.1 overs.​

Also READ: Georgia Wareham’s all-round show powers Melbourne Renegades to emphatic win over Sydney Sixers

Sydney Thunder dominate rain-shortened contest

Earlier, Stars appeared well placed at 29 without loss in 4.2 overs when rain first interrupted play, with McKenna taking advantage of the fielding restrictions and Lanning bedding in for a longer stay. However, the extended delay not only trimmed the innings to 10 overs but also disrupted their rhythm, and on resumption Thunder’s seam-spin mix ruthlessly exposed the pressure to accelerate. From 36 for 1 in the fifth over, Stars lost five wickets for 23 runs in the final 5.1 overs, with Maia Bouchier, Amy Jones and Lanning all falling in quick succession to leave Kim Garth (5*) and Georgia Prestwidge (2*) merely scraping the total to 66.​

Thunder’s reply was the complete contrast: proactive, calculated and relentless. Litchfield set the tone in the Powerplay, driving and lofting through the line to lift Thunder to 50 in just 4.3 overs, a stand of 50 from 27 balls with Voll that effectively killed the contest. Stars’ attack had no answers as Sophie Day and Prestwidge leaked 34 runs in just 2.1 overs at the back end, underlining Thunder’s dominance and leaving the hosts’ home-final ambitions under serious threat, while Thunder signed off their campaign with a statement win built around Voll’s outstanding all-round display.​

Also READ: WBBL|11: Phoebe Litchfield sizzles in Sydney Thunder’s emphatic win over Brisbane Heat

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





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