The first Test between New Zealand and the West Indies at Hagley Oval in Christchurch ended in a historic draw, with West Indies successfully saving the match despite chasing down a colossal target of 531. West Indies were on the brink of defeat after being bowled out for just 167 in their first innings and reduced to 72/4 in the second. However, thanks to a determined partnership between Justin Greaves (202*) and Kemar Roach (58*), the West Indies batted through 163.3 overs, ending on 457/6. This remarkable effort denied New Zealand their first victory in the series and secured their first points in the World Test Championship 2025-27.

Justin Greaves’ historic double ton anchors West Indies’ fightback in the 1st Test

In a Test match that had all the makings of a defeat, Greaves played a pivotal role in West Indies’ dogged resistance. After early setbacks in their second innings, Greaves teamed up with Shai Hope, who had earlier scored a crucial century. Greaves, unbeaten on 202, faced 388 balls, including 19 boundaries, in what was a career-defining knock. The duo added 196 runs before Hope was dismissed. From there, Greaves and Roach built a formidable partnership, ensuring that West Indies avoided a loss. Their stand of 180 runs off 409 balls became a historic one as it not only saved the match but also kept New Zealand from taking the crucial victory.

Shai Hope, Kemar Roach and Justin Greaves provide the backbone for West Indies’ resilience

Despite the top-order collapse in the fourth innings, the West Indies showcased remarkable resilience. Shai Hope’s 140 in the first innings and his subsequent support to Greaves in the second innings were critical in keeping the chase alive. Roach, playing a never-before-seen role, provided calm and stability at the other end, contributing an invaluable 58* off 233 balls. His resistance not only held the fort but also allowed Greaves to play freely, leading to a remarkable partnership that effectively shut down New Zealand’s hopes of a win. Roach’s performance added to his growing stature as a reliable performer in the longest format of the game.

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

New Zealand’s declaring and Jacob Duffy’s early breakthroughs set the stage for a thriller

New Zealand had set the stage for a potential victory after declaring their second innings at 466/8, with a mammoth target of 531 to chase. The hosts had been propelled by a stunning 171 from Rachin Ravindra and a solid 145 from Tom Latham, both of whom were key contributors in setting the huge target. On the bowling front, Jacob Duffy’s five-wicket haul in the first innings, along with Matt Henry’s 3-43, had put the West Indies on the back foot. Despite their excellent bowling effort, New Zealand’s hopes of securing the win were dashed by Greaves’ epic stand with Roach, which marked the first-ever draw for West Indies after a significant target chase.

Here’s how fans reacted: 

Justin Greaves, that is a monumental and historic double century 🙌🏼🫡

— Gaurav Kapur (@gauravkapur) December 6, 2025

Today happens only once in a lifetime and it’s that day for “Justin Greaves”.

Let’s not forget Kemar Roach in this effort👏👏

Also, Shai Hope was remarkable with the bat in both the innings ✅

Exceptional day for @windiescricket #wivnz pic.twitter.com/4skhfByeyQ

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) December 6, 2025

Great double century by Justin Greaves🔥👌🏾 #NZvWI

— Phelani🇿🇦 (@BabaloLubuzo) December 6, 2025

Justin Greaves just did something incredible.

But remember Kemar Roach, that man was born to block.

The West Indies just batted 163.3 overs to draw the match against New Zeland.

These two almost did 70 on their own.

— Jarrod Kimber (@ajarrodkimber) December 6, 2025

Phenomenal effort by the West Indies. They have shown so much fight during the tour.

— Adam Bell 🇳🇿🇮🇹 (@AdamKerrBell) December 6, 2025

Magnificent Justin Greaves 👏🏻

A double century of the highest quality

Nothing quite like Test cricket 🤩 pic.twitter.com/4X2uKp7TWO

— Werner (@Werries_) December 6, 2025

A double century in the fourth innings of an away Test match!

Remember the name – Justin Greaves. 🙌🏻

— Omkar Mankame (@Oam_16) December 6, 2025

West Indies batted 163.3 overs in that innings

It took 3 new balls

When was the last time you saw that in a Test?!

Well done West Indies!!!#NZvWI

— ThePoppingCrease (@PoppingCreaseSA) December 6, 2025

Nine hours. Twenty-four minutes. One unforgettable knock.

Justin Greaves, you’ve given Test cricket a classic. 🫡🔥 pic.twitter.com/wcf3mPcXM4

— Barbados Royals (@BarbadosRoyals) December 6, 2025

Justin Greaves and Kemar Roach pull off a historic draw for West Indies.#NZvWI #cricket #1stTest pic.twitter.com/2a5Avyu3mI

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 6, 2025

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

India and South Africa head into the third ODI on December 6, 2025, at Visakhapatnam’s ACA-VDCA Stadium with the series poised at 1-1, following a thrilling opener where India defended 299 to win by 17 runs in Ranchi and a high-octane second match where South Africa chased 359 with four wickets and seven balls remaining in Raipur. Virat Kohli‘s 52nd ODI century anchored India’s first victory, while Aiden Markram‘s 110 and a partnership with Matthew Breetzke powered South Africa’s comeback, highlighting both teams’ batting depth amid bowling concerns.​

India started strongly in Ranchi, posting 299/8 with Kohli’s ton outshining Yashasvi Jaiswal‘s half-century, as Arshdeep Singh and Kuldeep Yadav restricted South Africa to 282 despite Temba Bavuma‘s resistance. South Africa bounced back emphatically in Raipur, where Ruturaj Gaikwad‘s century helped India reach 358/6, but Markram and Breetzke’s stand dismantled the target, exposing India’s middle-order fragility and Prasidh Krishna‘s high economy. Head-to-head, South Africa leads ODIs 51-41 overall, but India holds recent edge with four wins in the last five.

Visakhapatnam Pitch Report

The ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam presents a batting paradise for the India-South Africa 3rd ODI, featuring true bounce, consistent carry, and short boundaries that have fueled high scores in ODIs, with an average first-innings total around 237 across 19 matches. Teams chasing have triumphed 14 times, largely due to evening dew that grips the ball, making bowling second a challenge amid 27-28°C temperatures and 60-65% humidity. Expect captains to prioritize fielding first, with pacers vital early before spinners exploit any grip; no rain forecast ensures a full contest favoring aggressive strokeplay.

Also READ: Top 5 highest ODI run chases in India ft. South Africa

ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium ODI Stats and Records

• Total matches: 20
• Matches won batting first: 3
• Matches won bowling first: 15
• Average 1st innings score: 233
• Average 2nd innings score: 213
• Highest total recorded: 387/5 (50 Ovs) by India vs West Indies
• Lowest total recorded: 76/10 (39.3 Ovs) by Sri Lanka vs India

Also READ: Fans roar in delight as Aiden Markram’s brilliant century keeps South Africa alive in tough chase vs India in Raipur ODI

The W.A.C.A. Ground in Perth is set to host a crucial encounter as Perth Scorchers Women take on Brisbane Heat Women in the 39th match of in WBBL|11

For the Scorchers, this match is a must-win to solidify their position in the playoff race. With five wins and four losses, they are precariously placed in the middle of the table and cannot afford any slip-ups.

The Heat, unfortunately, have had a season to forget, currently winless and out of playoff contention. While the pressure of qualification is off, they will be playing for pride and looking to spoil the Scorchers’ plans by causing an upset.

PS-W vs BH-W, WBBL|11: Match details

• Date and Time: December 06; 01:40 pm IST/ 08:10 am GMT/ 04:10 pm Local
• Venue: W.A.C.A. Ground, Perth

PS-W vs BH-W, Head-to-Head Record in WBBL

Matches played: 23 | Perth Scorchers won: 9 | Brisbane Heat won: 13 | No result: 1

W.A.C.A. Ground Pitch Report

The W.A.C.A. Ground is traditionally known for its pace and bounce, which offers good carry for fast bowlers early on. However, the surface has also seen good totals. Historically in the WBBL at this venue, teams chasing have had a slight advantage, winning 21 out of 36 matches, with the average first innings score being around 140. The team winning the toss may look to bowl first.

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

Squads:

Brisbane Heat: Charli Knott (c), Lucinda Bourke, Lauren Winfield-Hill, Georgia Redmayne (wk), Sianna Ginger, Chinelle Henry, Annie O Neil, Mikayla Wrigley, Lucy Hamilton, Sarah Glenn, Lily Bassingthwaighte, Bonnie Berry, Grace Parsons, Jess Jonassen, Grace Harris, Nicola Hancock

Perth Scorchers: Katie Mack, Beth Mooney (wk), Maddy Darke, Sophie Devine(c), Freya Kemp, Paige Scholfield, Alana King, Chloe Ainsworth, Lilly Mills, Ruby Strange, Amy Edgar, Ebony Hoskin, Shay Manolini, Mikayla Hinkley, Chloe Piparo

PS-W vs BH-W, WBBL|11: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Perth Scorchers Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Brisbane Heat Women’s powerplay score: 40-50
• Brisbane Heat Women’s total score: 150-160

Case 2:

• Brisbane Heat Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Perth Scorchers Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
• Perth Scorchers Women’s total score: 160-170

Match result: Team bowling first to win the game.

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.

Harbhajan Singh firmly defends Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli‘s place in the 2027 ODI World Cup, criticizing critics without significant achievements who question the future of the Indian cricket legends. The former India spinner expressed his admiration for the duo’s ongoing performances and leadership, stressing that both players remain vital to India’s ODI plans and are setting an example for the younger generation. Despite their advancing ages, with Rohit at 38 and Kohli at 37, Harbhajan expects them to continue until the World Cup in South Africa, applauding their recent form and contributions to the team.

Harbhajan Singh’s strong support for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli

On the sidelines of ILT20, speaking to media, Harbhajan highlighted the unfortunate situation where the futures of Rohit and Virat are being influenced by individuals who have not reached comparable milestones in cricket. He emphasized his own experience as a player to underline the importance of respecting the achievements and ongoing form of legends like Rohit and Kohli.

“It is beyond our understanding. I may not be able to answer because I have been a player myself, and what I have seen has happened to me as well. It has happened to many of my teammates, but it is very unfortunate. We don’t talk about it or have a discussion about it,” Harbhajan said.

Both players have retired from Test and T20 formats but remain active in ODIs, with Kohli recently scoring back-to-back centuries in the home series against South Africa and a fitter Rohit posting consistent high scores, including a 121 not out. Harbhajan praised them as steadfast leaders and role models who demonstrate the qualities required to be champions, reinforcing that their positions in India’s cricket setup should not be questioned lightly.

“I am so happy when I see a player like Virat Kohli who is still going strong. It is a bit unfortunate that those people are deciding about their future who have not achieved much,” Harbhajan added.

Also READ: Brother Vikas and Sister Bhawna express their jubilation on social media after Virat Kohli’s 84th international century | IND vs SA, 2nd ODI

Harbhajan shares concerns over Indian Cricket’s pitch quality and future

Beyond endorsing the veterans, Harbhajan expressed concern about the quality of cricket pitches in India, which he claims are overly bowler-friendly and disadvantage batters by reducing scoring opportunities. He criticized the trend of preparing rank-turning tracks that favor spinners with the new ball, arguing that such surfaces stunt the development of both batters and bowlers, particularly strike spinners.

Harbhajan urged the cricket board and ground authorities to revert to more balanced pitches that offer a fair challenge to both batting and bowling units, similar to conditions abroad where Indian batters find more opportunities to build innings. He also highlighted the impact of T20 cricket on players’ patience and emphasized the need for longer-format preparedness to sustain India’s competitiveness in international cricket.

Harbhajan concluded by recognizing the success of the ongoing ILT20 league in the UAE, praising its role in expanding cricket’s footprint in the region and providing opportunities for players from neighboring countries to compete alongside international stars.

“They have to start playing on good tracks. We don’t give much chance to our batsmen to make runs. If we tour abroad our batsmen have a chance to make runs because the pitch is good for batting. The bowlers have to work hard. That is why I think it is high time that the pitches that have been made in the last 10-12 years are very bowler-friendly especially spinner-friendly. Spinners bowl with the new ball. I think somewhere we need to change that trend. I feel it is not the right kind of thing to do. Our team is so solid and we have played well in England. We will win even if we play for five days. Why are you looking to play two and half days of Test cricket?”  Harbhajan concluded.

Also READ: Virat Kohli’s 53rd ODI century: Anushka Sharma reacts after India legend steals the show in Raipur – IND vs SA

England and Australia clashed fiercely in the second Ashes Test at Brisbane’s Gabba on December 4, 2025, under pink-ball lights, with the hosts trailing by 42 runs at 292 for five after 56.4 overs on Day 2. Joe Root‘s gritty 138 anchored England’s first innings total of 334, recovering from an early collapse to 5 for two, setting a challenging platform in this day-night encounter. Brydon Carse‘s three wickets, including a pivotal blow, sparked England’s late fightback as Australia raced at 5.15 runs per over.​

Will Jacks pulls off a sensational grab to get Steve Smith out on Day 2

Will Jacks produced a moment of magic on Day 2, diving full length at deep backward square to pouch a one-handed screamer off Carse, dismissing Steven Smith for 61 off 85 balls in the 56.4 over. The short ball cramped Smith, forcing an awkward pull that floated flat towards Jacks, positioned 25 meters from the rope; his acrobatic leap to the right sealed a stunning catch, leaving Australia wobbling at 292 for five just before drinks.

Smith’s knock, featuring five fours and two sixes, had steadied the chase alongside Marnus Labuschagne‘s 65, but Jacks’ athleticism, his first major fielding highlight in Tests since 2022, shifted momentum dramatically in Session 3.​

Here’s the video:

pic.twitter.com/F3yHhGCibm

— j. (@was_jash82) December 5, 2025

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Here’s why Grace Hayden thanked Joe Root for his hundred in Gabba Test

England’s late surge ignites Gabba drama

Australia dominated early on Day 2, surging to 50 in 10 overs through Travis Head‘s 33 and Jake Weatherald‘s explosive 72, reaching 100 by the 17th over with Weatherald’s fifty off 45 balls. Post-lunch, Labuschagne and Smith rebuilt with a 50-run stand, pushing to 200 by the 37th over before Ben Stokes removed Labuschagne, caught behind for 65; Cameron Green‘s brisk 45 then lifted Australia to 250 in 49.3 overs, his 50-run alliance with Smith threatening England’s lead.​

The final session turned chaotic as England struck twice in quick succession: Green fell to Carse for 45 at 291 for four, followed immediately by Smith’s end via Jacks’ brilliance, collapsing the innings before drinks with Australia at 292 for five. Carse’s figures read 3 for 97 off 12.4 overs, his short-pitched aggression dismantling the middle order after Jofra Archer‘s earlier lbw of Weatherald.

Also WATCH: Jofra Archer’s brutal toe-crushing yorker sends Jake Weatherald packing on Day 2 of the Pink-Ball Test

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction is shaping up to be a fascinating battle of strategy and budget management. With several top franchises facing leadership voids and seeking settled top-order batters, the spotlight is firmly fixed on Australian veteran Steve Smith. Set at a manageable base price of INR 2 crores, the former Australian captain brings a wealth of experience, tactical acumen, and a reliable batting technique. His proven track record of stabilizing an innings and his previous stint as an IPL captain make him a high-impact, low-risk target. Let’s have a look at some franchises that are strategically placed to secure Smith’s services.

5 teams that can target Steve Smith in IPL 2026 auction

1. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

• Purse Remaining: ₹16.05 crore | Overseas Slots: 1

Rajasthan Royals are perhaps the most natural fit for Smith’s return. Having previously led the side, Smith is familiar with the franchise’s culture and strategy. Crucially, with the hypothetical departure of key player Sanju Samson, RR has a gaping hole in their top-order batting lineup. They desperately need an experienced, reliable anchor and a potential captaincy figure. With only one overseas slot to fill, Smith represents the perfect, high-value acquisition to stabilize their batting and provide on-field leadership, fitting well within their moderate purse.

2. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR)

• Purse Remaining: ₹64.30 crore | Overseas Slots: 3 (Highest Purse)

KKR enters the mini-auction with the deepest pockets, boasting the highest remaining purse. This financial firepower gives them the confidence to engage in a bidding war if necessary. Much like RR, KKR is looking for a settled, consistent top-order batter. The team has historically valued experienced leadership, and Smith fits this requirement perfectly. With three overseas slots available, KKR can afford to bring in Smith as an established pillar around which they can build their batting unit for the next phase of the tournament.

3. Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

• Purse Remaining: ₹22.95 crore | Overseas Slots: 4

Despite retaining several strong overseas players like Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, and Mitchell Marsh, LSG understands the necessity of having quality backups for the high-octane tournament. With four overseas slots open, they have the flexibility to invest in experienced depth. Smith provides an elite-level alternative or a supplementary top-order option, ensuring the team’s balance is not compromised by injuries or poor form among their retained stars. His inclusion would elevate the overall quality and resilience of the squad.

4. Delhi Capitals (DC)

• Purse Remaining: ₹21.80 crore | Overseas Slots: 5

The Delhi Capitals possess a moderate purse, suggesting a strategic focus on acquiring high-impact players who can immediately slot into and complete their playing XI. Smith, a former DC player, is a known quantity who delivers consistent performances. Given DC’s need to solidify their core group of overseas players, Smith represents a proven, high-calibre option who can fulfill both the batting and mentorship roles required to push the team toward a playoff spot.

Also READ: IPL 2026: 5 franchises that can target Jacob Duffy in the mini-auction

5. Gujarat Titans (GT)

• Purse Remaining: ₹12.90 crore | Overseas Slots: 4

The Gujarat Titans face a different challenge: they have a relatively small purse yet need to fill four overseas slots. This dictates a budget-conscious, highly tactical approach. While they have retained core Indian stars like Shubman Gill and overseas talent like Jos Buttler, GT still needs players who can manage their middle-order effectively and act as backup stars. Smith’s low base price of ₹2 crores makes him an extremely attractive, high-quality, and cost-effective option who can anchor the middle overs and guide lower-order batsmen.

Valuable numbers in IPL

Smith’s IPL pedigree makes him a valuable asset. Across 103 matches, he has accumulated 2,485 runs, including one century and eleven fifties, with a highest score of 101. These statistics underscore his capability to deliver match-winning performances and provide the crucial stability that many franchises are currently lacking. His availability at a modest base price ensures that he will be one of the most hotly contested names when the bidding war commences.

Also READ: KKR veteran Andre Russell reveals why he decided to retire from the IPL

Former England captain Joe Root finally ended his long-standing wait for a Test century on Australian soil, producing a superb hundred on Day 1 of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba. While the milestone was a major boost for England, the most relieved reactions came not from his own dressing room, but from the family of Australian legend Matthew Hayden—thanks to a bizarre pre-series wager that had taken the internet by storm.

Matthew Hayden’s viral promise ahead of Ashes

In the build-up to the series, Hayden had made a playful yet outrageous promise on a podcast. Highlighting Root’s unusual record—zero Test centuries in Australia despite over 13,000 career runs—Hayden confidently declared: “I will walk nude around the MCG if he doesn’t make a hundred this summer.”

The comment instantly became a global talking point, adding unexpected humour to the Ashes rivalry. Fans followed Root’s every innings with heightened curiosity, wondering whether Hayden’s bold wager would force him into an unforgettable—and unmissable—lap of the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. Even Hayden acknowledged the pressure, joking that he had more ‘skin in the game’ than anyone else.

Joe Root breaks his century jinx in Australia

Coming in early with England under pressure, Root stitched together a masterful, composed innings. He played with authority, built vital partnerships, and displayed the calmness that had often deserted him in Australian conditions.

When he finally punched the ball through cover to bring up his 40th Test century—and his first ever in Australia—it sparked celebrations far beyond the English camp. The century not only broke a strange statistical drought but also delivered massive relief to millions who had followed Hayden’s viral promise.

Also WATCH: Ashes 2025-26: Marnus Labuschagne plucks a screamer to dismiss Jofra Archer on Day 2 of Gabba Test

Grace Hayden’s priceless reaction after Root’s century

While Root soaked in the applause, the internet was quickly taken over by the reaction of Grace Hayden, daughter of Aussie legend Hayden and a popular sports presenter. She had earlier pleaded online for Root to score a century to save the public from the possibility of her father’s nude MCG run.

Moments after Root reached triple figures, Grace posted her hilariously relieved message on Instagram which read: “Root thank you, you’ve saved all our eyes.”

Matthew Hayden’s daughter’s Instagram story on Joe Root’s hundred. 🤣 pic.twitter.com/OeCZLJk5N5

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) December 4, 2025

The post immediately exploded across social media, perfectly capturing the comic tension at the bet had added to the series and offering a heartwarming moment of humour amid the fierce rivalry.

Also SEE: Photo Gallery: WAGS of top England cricketers at the Ashes 2025-26

Adelaide Strikers Women face Hobart Hurricanes Women in the 37th match of the Women’s Big Bash League 2025 at Karen Rolton Oval, Adelaide, on Friday. Hobart Hurricanes top the points table with seven wins from nine matches and a net run rate of +0.662, while Adelaide Strikers sit sixth with three wins from eight games and two no-results.​

Hobart Hurricanes enter on a high after convincing victories over Perth Scorchers and Melbourne Stars, with Danielle Wyatt-Hodge leading runs alongside support from Nicola Carey, Lizelle Lee, and Elyse Villani; bowlers Molly Strano, Heather Graham, and Linsey Smith dominate. Adelaide Strikers fight to stay playoff-contending despite inconsistency, buoyed by home advantage and recent wins, though they need points to climb from mid-table.​

AS-W vs HH-W, WBBL 2025: Match details

• Date and Time: December 05; 01:40 pm IST/ 08:10 am GMT/ 07:10 pm Local
• Venue: Karen Rolton Oval, Adelaide

AS-W vs HH-W, Head-to-Head Record in WBBL

Matches played: 18 | Adelaide Strikers won: 14 | Hobart Hurricanes won: 04 | No result: 00

Karen Rolton Oval Pitch Report

Karen Rolton Oval in Adelaide generally offers a true, batting-friendly surface with even bounce, allowing stroke-makers to play through the line confidently. Teams batting first have often posted competitive totals in the 150–170 range, but the pitch can slow down as the game progresses, bringing spinners and change-of-pace bowlers into play. Shorter square boundaries keep power-hitters interested, yet disciplined new-ball bowling can still find movement in the air and off the seam early on.

Squads

Hobart Hurricanes: Nicola Carey, Heather Graham, Isabella Malgioglio, Ruth Johnston, Lizelle Lee, Natalie Sciver-Brunt, Hayley Silver-Holmes, Amy Smith, Lauren Smith, Linsey Smith, Molly Strano, Rachel Trenaman, Elyse Villani, Callie Wilson, Danni Wyatt-Hodge

Adelaide Strikers: Laura Wolvaardt, Tammy Beaumont, Madeline Penna, Tahlia McGrath (c), Bridget Patterson (wk), Ellie Johnston, Amanda-Jade Wellington, Jemma Barsby, Sophie Ecclestone, Megan Schutt, Darcie Brown, Eleanor Larosa, Anesu Mushangwe

Also READ: WBBL 2025: Ashleigh Gardner’s all-round display leads Sydney Sixers to an 16-run victory over Melbourne Stars

AS-W vs HH-W, WBBL 2025: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Adelaide Strikers Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Hobart Hurricanes Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
• Hobart Hurricanes Women’s total score: 180-190

Case 2:

• Hobart Hurricanes Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Adelaide Strikers Women’s powerplay score: 55-65
• Adelaide Strikers Women’s total score: 190-200

Match result: Team bowling first to win the game.

Also READ: WBBL|11: Sophie Devine propels Perth Scorchers to a comprehensive win over Melbourne Renegades

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

Jacob Duffy, the New Zealand fast-medium bowler, has registered his name in the INR 2 crore base price category for the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Duffy is in spectacular form, having recently achieved a maiden five-wicket haul (5/34) in his first Test match on home soil against the West Indies in Christchurch, putting New Zealand in a commanding position.

Duffy is known for his consistency, ability to swing the new ball, and exceptional wicket-taking skills, boasting a T20I average of 17.06  with 53 wickets. He is particularly effective in bowling the tough overs at the death in New Zealand’s domestic T20 competition. His proven quality makes him a prime target for teams needing a reliable overseas fast bowler. Duffy’s consistency, ability to swing the new ball, and demonstrated high-impact wicket-taking ability across formats make him a prime target for franchises seeking a reliable overseas fast bowler, willing to overlook his previous focus on red-ball cricket to acquire a player in such blistering form.

IPL 2026: 5 franchises that can target Jacob Duffy in the Indian Premier League mini-auction

1. Mumbai Indians (MI)

Mumbai Indians enter the auction with the smallest purse of ₹2.75 crore and only one crucial overseas slot to fill. This limited budget forces them to target a single, high-impact overseas player whose acquisition can be managed within their financial constraints. Given Duffy’s ₹2 crore base price, he is one of the few high-quality overseas players MI can realistically target and afford. His recent five-wicket haul demonstrates his class and ability to perform in high-stakes situations. He provides the new-ball threat and reliability MI needs to maximize their limited overseas budget, making him an immediate and high-value addition.

2. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) hold the second-largest purse of ₹43.40 crore and have four overseas slots to fill. After releasing several pacers, including Matheesha Pathirana, CSK is in critical need of overseas fast bowling reinforcements. While they value death-overs specialists, Duffy offers the valuable alternative of consistent control and swing in the powerplay. CSK values players who perform reliably in high-pressure matches, and Duffy’s recent Test fifer reinforces his big-match temperament. Their massive budget allows them to bid aggressively for Duffy to easily secure a reliable pace option to balance their reconstructed bowling attack.

3. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have a purse of ₹16.05 crore and need to fill nine slots, including one crucial overseas slot. RR released several key players and needs a dependable overseas fast bowler who can partner their retained Indian pacers. Duffy, with his right-arm fast-medium pace, provides the perfect combination of swing and control. His consistent wicket-taking ability and, more recently, his stellar performance in Test cricket make him an attractive option for a team looking for a specialist overseas bowler to bolster their core bowling unit, allowing their all-rounders to focus on their primary roles.

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

4. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

RCB has a purse of ₹16.40 crore and two overseas slots left to fill. Having released pacers like Lungi Ngidi, RCB needs a quality overseas pacer to back up their retained fast bowler, Josh Hazlewood. Duffy is an excellent candidate who offers a different style of right-arm fast-medium bowling that can thrive on Indian pitches. His reputation as a reliable new-ball bowler and his recent red-ball heroics indicate he is in peak form. His reasonable base price means RCB can secure him without committing a massive portion of their budget, keeping funds available for their priority targets (like Renuka Singh Thakur via RTM or an overseas all-rounder).

5. Delhi Capitals (DC)

Delhi Capitals (DC) have a solid purse of ₹21.80 crore and five overseas slots to fill. DC’s bowling attack has often lacked a high-quality overseas pacer who can deliver consistently without being overly expensive. Duffy provides a strong, proven overseas option to balance their pace attack. His ability to take wickets and maintain a good economy rate would offer vital support to their retained Indian bowlers. DC will see Duffy’s current form as a golden opportunity to acquire a high-ranking, specialist pacer for a base price of ₹2 crore, adding much-needed depth and quality to their fast-bowling unit.

Also READ: IPL 2026: 5 teams that can target Shai Hope in the Indian Premier League auction

South Africa Women are all set to host Ireland Women in the white-ball series, starting with the T20I leg on December 05 at Newlands in Cape Town. The series provides both teams with a crucial opportunity to test their mettle and fine-tune their combinations in the shortest format of the game.

South Africa: The favourites at home

Led by the dynamic opener Laura Wolvaardt, the Proteas enter the series as the clear favourites on their home soil. Their squad is a blend of world-class all-rounders, experienced batters, and a potent bowling attack. The spine of their team is incredibly strong, featuring veterans like Marizanne Kapp, Sune Luus, and the returning Dane van Niekerk, whose all-round skills will be vital. Nonkululeko Mlaba provides control with spin and wicket-taking ability, complemented by the pace of Ayabonga Khaka and Masabata Klaas.

Ireland: The underdogs seeking an upset

Gaby Lewis takes the reins of the Irish side, which will be looking to challenge the hosts with their brand of fighting cricket. Playing in South Africa offers a steep learning curve, but the squad possesses players capable of delivering match-winning performances. Ireland’s strength lies in their top order, particularly captain Gaby and the experienced Laura Delany and Orla Prendergast. These players will need to lay a solid foundation against the quality South African bowling. The side will rely on the pace of Ava Canning and the spin options from Cara Murray and Leah Paul to contain the powerful Proteas lineup.

SA vs IRE, T20I series, Fixtures

Squads:

South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Seshnie Naidu, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Nondumiso Shangase, Dane van Niekerk, Marizanne Kapp, Sune Luus, Chloe Tryon, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Karabo Meso (wk), Faye Tunnicliffe (wk), Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Nonkululeko Mlaba

Ireland: Gaby Lewis (c), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Laura Delany, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell

Broadcast and Live Streaming Details:

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