Team India all-rounder Washington Sundar and actress-cum-sports presenter Sahiba Bali have become the latest subjects of celebrity dating speculation after a video of the two sharing coffee at a cafe went viral. The short clip, widely circulated on social media platforms, instantly triggering fan theories and online chatter about a possible relationship between Sundar and Sahiba.

Are Sahiba Bali and Washington Sundar in a romantic relationship?

The footage, captured by fans and reshared across Instagram and X, ignited a wave of comments, with many users prematurely referring to Sahiba as “Washington Sundar’s girlfriend.” As the video gained traction, both Sundar and Sahiba maintained silence, neither confirming nor addressing the rumours in public.

https://twitter.com/AdamDhoni1/status/1996107689479524414

Despite the rising buzz, sources close to the cricketer have indicated that Sundar prefers to keep his personal life private, which explains the lack of response from his end. Similarly, Sahiba has not posted anything hinting at a romantic connection.

Both personalities have remained focused on their professional commitments – Sundar on international cricket duties, and Sahiba on her expanding presence in sports broadcasting and digital entertainment. .

Lesser know facts about Sahiba Bali

Sahiba Bali is a rising multi-hyphenate talent in the Indian entertainment industry – a blend of actor, host, digital creator and marketing professional. Born on 5 December 1994 into a Kashmiri family, she has built a unique cross-industry profile spanning film, OTT platforms, brand strategy and live sports coverage.

She completed her education in Economics at Delhi University, where she was deeply involved in theatre and street performances. Her subsequent business-school training led her into marketing roles, which later shaped her identity as a strong corporate-creative crossover personality.

Sahiba eventually transitioned into front-of-camera roles, earning recognition for her natural screen presence and relatable charm. She appeared in films and web series while simultaneously taking on content strategy roles for startups and brands.

Her popularity surged further when she joined the Indian Premier League (IPL) broadcast team in 2024, becoming one of the familiar faces of match-day coverage. She later contributed as a digital insider and anchor for cricket-related content during the Champions Trophy 2025, expanding her reach in sports broadcasting.

Also READ: Is Mrunal Thakur dating Shreyas Iyer? Bollywood actress responds with a humorous post

Sahiba is highly active on Instagram and YouTube, where she blends lifestyle content, humour, relationship commentary and career advice. Her mix of entertainment and authenticity has earned her a loyal following, cementing her status as a relatable digital diva.

Also READ: Actress Shehnaaz Gill opens up on the idea of marrying star pacer Arshdeep Singh

James Anderson has stirred up the Ashes debate by naming Joe Root at No. 4 in his combined all-time Ashes XI while leaving out modern great Steve Smith, the third-highest run-scorer in Ashes history. The former England seamer’s picks have immediately divided opinion, given Smith’s towering record against England and his status as one of the most dominant Ashes batters of the modern era.​

James Anderson’s big Steve Smith omission from his all-time Ashes XI

Speaking on a broadcast segment, Anderson unveiled an XI packed with legends from both England and Australia but made the headline call of preferring his longtime teammate Root over Smith at No. 4. Notably, Ricky Ponting was bizarrely listed as wicketkeeper despite never taking the gloves in professional cricket, underlining that the exercise was more about personnel than strict roles.​

Anderson’s top order is anchored by Don Bradman and Alastair Cook, a pairing that blends the most prolific Ashes batter of all time with England’s most successful modern opener. Bradman sits miles clear at the top of the Ashes run charts with 5,028 runs at an average of 89.78, while Cook amassed 2,493 Ashes runs, including his iconic 766-run series in 2010–11 that powered England to their only Ashes win in Australia this century. At No. 3, he has gone for Ponting, who piled up 2,476 Ashes runs and captained some of Australia’s most dominant sides, further strengthening the top order before Root slots in at four.​

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: James Anderson reveals roadmap for English bowlers to sizzle in Australia

Joe Root over Smith and a star-studded bowling attack

The flashpoint is Anderson’s decision to squeeze Root into the middle order at the expense of Smith, whose Ashes record is the benchmark for modern batters. Smith has 3,417 Ashes runs at an average of around 56 with 12 centuries, placing him behind only Bradman and Jack Hobbs on the all-time run tally, yet Anderson opted for Root’s all-format influence and long-term role as England’s batting fulcrum. Root himself has crossed 2,400 runs in Ashes contests and sits among the top active scorers, though his average and conversion rate lag behind Smith’s staggering numbers.​

Behind Root, Anderson doubled down on English middle-order firepower by picking Kevin Pietersen at No. 5, highlighting his pivotal role in the 2005 Ashes and his tally of over 2,100 runs in the rivalry. The all-round department features Ian Botham and Ben Stokes, two men synonymous with era-defining Ashes spells – from Botham’s 1981 heroics to Stokes’ miracle at Headingley in 2019 – giving the XI depth with bat and ball. The bowling group is a who’s who of Ashes greats: Shane Warne, the leading wicket-taker in Ashes history with 195 scalps, backed by Glenn McGrath (157 wickets), Stuart Broad (153) and Bob Willis (123), a quartet that dominates the all-time wicket charts.​

Anderson’s selections, especially the omission of Smith and the inclusion of Root and multiple English greats, ensure this all-time Ashes XI will remain a hot talking point as the current Ashes cycle continues.

James Anderson’s all time combined Ashes XI

Donald Bradman, Alastair Cook, Ricky Ponting (wk), Joe Root, Kevin Pietersen, Ian Botham, Ben Stokes (c), Shane Warne, Bob Willis, Glenn McGrath, Stuart Broad

Also READ: No James Anderson! Stuart Broad and Ricky Ponting pick combined Ashes XI of the 21st century

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has enforced a clear mandate, driven by head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar, requiring all international players to participate in domestic competitions when not on national duty. This directive, established to ensure consistent game time and preparedness, has put pressure on senior players, particularly those who have retired from Test cricket, to utilize the country’s premier 50-over tournament. The upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT), scheduled from December 24 to January 18, has thus become crucial game time for India’s ODI stars, especially given the upcoming gap in the international 50-over calendar.

Is Virat Kohli playing in the Vijay Hazare Trophy? Details inside

As per Cricbuzz report, Virat Kohli has put all rumors and speculation to rest by confirming his availability to the Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) for the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26 season. This development was officially confirmed by DDCA president Rohan Jaitley, marking a massive boost for Delhi cricket and signaling Kohli’s compliance with the new BCCI policy. Kohli’s decision is particularly noteworthy given his recent comments in Ranchi, where his statements about focusing primarily on the mental aspect of the game were “largely interpreted as a push-back against the BCCI line.” His commitment to play reverses what some had initially viewed as a stance at odds with the management’s mandate.

The report further stated that Kohli is expected to feature in a limited number of games, with the likelihood of him playing against Andhra Pradesh (December 24) and Gujarat (December 26) in Bengaluru. His return to the VHT ends a significant absence; he last played in the tournament in the 2009/10 edition, with his final game taking place on February 18, 2010. Over his career in the tournament, Kohli has amassed impressive numbers, scoring 819 runs in 14 VHT games at an exceptional average of 68.25 and a strike rate of 106.08, including four centuries. His presence will undoubtedly generate massive fan interest and serve as critical preparation for the ODI series against New Zealand scheduled in January.

Also READ: Top 5 youngest centurions in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy history ft. Vaibhav Suryavanshi

Rohit Sharma in Vijay Hazare Trophy? Here’s the full story

Similar to Kohli, opener Rohit Sharma has also reportedly communicated his intention to the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) that he will play for the team in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The joint participation of both seasoned veterans underscores the seriousness of the BCCI’s directive, spearheaded by head coach Gautam Gambhir and chief selector Ajit Agarkar. They have explicitly insisted that international players, especially those who have retired from Test cricket, must make themselves available for the domestic 50-over competition to maintain form.13

The current VHT serves a vital purpose for both players, given that the ODI World Cup is less than two years away and the national team’s ODI schedule after the upcoming series against New Zealand is sparse for several months. By playing for their respective state teams, Kohli and Rohit could address the rumors that had painted them as being uninterested in the competition. The availability of these two stars, who have been among India’s best performers in the 50-over format this year, is deemed essential for securing continuous game time and remaining sharp for international assignments, adhering to the management’s non-negotiable requirement for national selection.

Also READ: ILT20 Season 4: Complete list of presenters and commentators – From Grace Hayden to Mohammad Kaif

Perth Scorchers recorded a comprehensive 30-run victory over Melbourne Renegades in Match 33 of WBBL|11 on Tuesday at the WACA, riding on a high-impact performance from captain Sophie Devine.

Perth Scorchers batting unit posts a massive total

Sent in to bat after the Renegades won the toss, the Scorchers produced a commanding 184/5. Katie Mack provided early impetus with a brisk 18 off 13, while Beth Mooney anchored from the other end with 21 off 18, helping the Scorchers race to 43 in the powerplay.

The stand-out knock came from skipper Sophie Devine, who smashed a blistering 40 off just 28 balls, striking two fours and three sixes. Partnering with Maddy Darke (36 off 32), Devine added a crucial 69-run stand for the third wicket, laying the perfect foundation for a late flourish.

In the final overs, teenager Freya Kemp (28 off 13) and Paige Scholfield (10 not out off 9) boosted the total, with Alana King applying the finishing touches with 8-ball 22*.

Sophie Devine bruise Melbourne Renegades in the chase

Chasing 185, the Renegades faltered early and never fully recovered. Opener Deandra Dottin fell for 2 off 5 in the opening over, caught by Freya Kemp off Chloe Ainsworth.

Captain Devine then turned the game decisively with the ball, dismantling the Renegades’ top order. She removed Courtney Webb (0), Sophie Molineux (17), and the dangerous Alice Capsey (12), returning sharp figures of 4/25. Her double-strike in the powerplay left the Renegades reeling at 34/4.

A brief rebuild came through Nicole Faltum (28 off 22) and Georgia Wareham (43 off 32), who added 65 for the fifth wicket, but the required rate ballooned quickly as the Scorchers’ spinners tightened control.

Alana King, who earlier impressed with the bat, delivered an equally impactful spell, picking up 2/29, dismissing both Faltum and Wareham to break the Renegades’ last meaningful partnership.

With overs running out, lower-order contributions from Tess Flintoff (19 off 10) and Naomi Stalenberg (16 off 17) were not enough. Renegades eventually closed on 154/9, 30 short of the target.

Also READ: ST-W vs BH-W, WBBL|11 Match Prediction – Who will win today’s game between Sydney Thunder and Brisbane Heat?

Perth Scorchers won by 30 runs 👋#WBBL2025 pic.twitter.com/NZy48NpWmt

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) December 2, 2025

Player of the Match

With 40 runs, 4 wickets, and sharp fielding, Sophie Devine deservedly claimed Player of the Match, reminding the fans once again why she remains one of the most influential figures in women’s  cricket.

Also READ – “See you soon baby girl”: Danni Wyatt-Hodge announces pregnancy joyfully

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

The fourth season of the International League T20 (ILT20) kicks off on December 2, 2025, and runs till January 4, 2026. Featuring six teams—Gulf Giants, Sharjah Warriors, MI Emirates, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders, Dubai Capitals, and Desert Vipers—the tournament will have 30 league-stage matches across three UAE venues: Dubai International Stadium, Sharjah Cricket Stadium, and Sheikh Zayed Stadium in Abu Dhabi. The playoffs will follow with Qualifier 1 on December 30, the Eliminator on January 1, Qualifier 2 on January 2, and the final scheduled for January 4 at Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

ILT20 Season 4: Format

The league phase follows a double round-robin format where each team faces every other twice, producing 30 matches that determine the top four teams advancing to the playoffs. The playoffs comprise Qualifier 1, where the top two teams vie for a direct final spot. The Eliminator features the third and fourth-placed teams, with the winner progressing to Qualifier 2 against the loser of Qualifier 1. The victor of Qualifier 2 earns the second place in the final. The final showdown on January 4 will crown the ILT20 2025-26 champions. The league matches and the knockout stages will be played at iconic cricket grounds across the UAE, providing a thrilling cricket festival for fans.​

This season promises competitive cricket action with star-studded squads vying for supremacy amidst passionate support from cricket followers in the region and around the world. The ILT20 continues to solidify its standing as a premier T20 league, blending international and local talent in one of the most cricket-growing regions globally. Fans can look forward to exciting contests, high-octane cricket, and emerging talents showcasing their skills on these emirate stadia.

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

ILT20 Season 4: Squads

Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

Jason Holder (c), Andre Russell, Alishan Sharafu, Charith Asalanka, Phil Salt, Sunil Narine, Alex Hales, Liam Livingstone, Sherfane Rutherford, Usman Tariq, Michael Pepper, George Garton, Brandon McMullen, Ibrar Ahmed, Ajay Kumar, Adnan Idrees Muhammad, Abdul Manan Ali, Mayank Chowdary, Khary Pierre, Shadley Van Schalkwyk, Unmukt Chand

Desert Vipers

Dan Lawrence, David Payne, Khuzaima Bin Tanveer, Lockie Ferguson, Max Holden, Sam Curran, Wanindu Hasaranga, Andries Gous, Shimron Hetmyer, Vriitya Aravind, Fakhar Zaman, Naseem Shah, Qais Ahmad, Sanjay Pahal, Bilal Tahir, Faisal Khan, Hasan Nawaz, Tom Bruce, Matiullah Khan, Tawanda Muyeye, Faridoon Dawoodzai

Dubai Capitals

Dasun Shanaka, Dushmantha Chameera, Gulbadin Naib, Rovman Powell and Shai Hope, Luke Wood, Waqar Salamkheil and Muhammad Jawadullah, David Willey, Leus de Plooy, Muhammad Farooq, Tymal Mills, Scott Currie, Mohammad Nabi, Farhan Khan, Anudeep Chenthamara, Usman Najeeb, Ritesh Mallikarjuna Grandhi, Shayan Jahangir, Rushil Ugarkar, Naveen Bidiasee, Toby Albert, Akshay Wakhare

Gulf Giants

Aayan Afzal Khan, Blessing Muzarabani, Gerhard Erasmus, Mark Adair, James Vince, Azmatullah Omarzai, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Moeen Ali, Kyle Mayers, Matthew Forde, Asif Khan, Zuhaib Zubair, Sean Dickson, Tabraiz Shamsi, Liam Dawson, Fred Klaassen, Haider Razzaq, Meet Bhavsar, Ishtiaq Ahmad, Lorcan Tucker, Chris Wood, Tom Moores, Ramon Simmonds

MI Emirates

AM Ghazanfar, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kusal Perera, Muhammad Waseem, Romario Shepherd, Tom Banton, Chris Woakes, Kamindu Mendis, Muhammad Rohid, Jordan Thompson, Naveen-ul-Haq, Andre Fletcher, Nosthush Kenjige, Mohamed Shafeeq, Zain Ul Abidin, Usman Khan, Ackeem Auguste, Arab Gul, Tajinder Dhillon, Zahoor Khan, Shakib Al Hasan

Sharjah Warriorz

Johnson Charles, Tom Kohler-Cadmore, Tim Southee, Sikandar Raza, Maheesh Theekshana, Saurabh Netravalkar, Tim David, Dinesh Karthik (in for Kusal Mendis), Tom Abell, Adil Rashid, Junaid Siddique, James Rew, Nathan Sowter, Dwaine Pretorius, Jayden Seales, Harmeet Singh, Wasim Akram, Mohamed Nawfer Mohamed Aslam, Raees Ahmad, Richard Ngarava, Shubham Ranjane, Ethan D’Souza, Taskin Ahmed, Abdul Salman Khan

Also READ: Breakdown of Faf du Plessis’ IPL salary since his debut – From 2012 to 2025

The DP World International League T20 (ILT20) 2025-26, scheduled from December 2 to January 4, is set to deliver an even more immersive experience for global cricket audiences with a powerhouse broadcast team comprising former cricket icons and renowned media professionals.

Some of the biggest names in world cricket will be behind the mic this season, bringing expert insights and match-winning perspectives. The commentary team features celebrated former stars such as Mohammad Kaif, Shoaib Malik, Andy Flower, Wasim Akram, Harbhajan Singh, Ian Bishop, Waqar Younis and Simon Doull.

Joining them are respected broadcasters Daren Ganga, Owais Shah, Mike Haysman and Urooj Mumtaz, along with well-known Indian analysts including Nikhil Chopra, Vivek Razdan, Saba Karim, Ajay Mehra, Reema Malhotra and Rohan Gavaskar. Together, they will provide in-depth cricket analysis in both English and Hindi, ensuring wider accessibility for fans across the world.

Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik is all set to make his commentary debut this season. His fresh perspective as an active player adds a modern edge to the broadcast.

Dynamic presenters to enhance fans engagement

Supporting the commentary crew is a talented team of presenters including Grace Hayden, Ridhima Pathak, Arjun Pandit and Laura McGoldrick.

Known for their charismatic hosting styles and on-ground coverage, they will deliver exclusive interviews, fan interactions and behind-the-scenes features throughout the tournament. Grace Hayden’s inclusion, in particular, adds further star value to the broadcast lineup.

Also READ: ILT20 Season 4 – Complete squads of all 6 team

The fourth edition of ILT20, hosted across Dubai, Sharjah, and Abu Dhabi, features top overseas players such as Kieron Pollard, Nicholas Pooran, Lockie Ferguson, Sunil Narine, Andre Russell, Phil Salt, Rovman Powell, Sam Curran, Moeen Ali and Jonny Bairstow.

With elite on-field talent supported by a premium commentary and presenting team, ILT20 Season 4 aims to deliver unmatched entertainment and expert storytelling, bringing fans closer to every thrilling moment.

Also READ: ILT20 Season 4 Schedule – Broadcast, Live Streaming details | When and where to watch in India, Pakistan, USA, Caribbean, UK & other countries

In the decider of the three-match T20I series at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram on Tuesday, Bangladesh stamped their authority by defeating Ireland by eight wickets with 38 balls to spare, clinching the series 2-1.

Ireland set a modest target of 118 runs after being restricted to 117 all out, thanks to a disciplined bowling effort from Bangladesh. Tanzid Hasan’s unbeaten 55 off 36 balls was the highlight of the run chase as Bangladesh comfortably crossed the finish line at 119/2 in 13.4 overs, underlining their dominance in the final game.​

Bangladesh’s disciplined bowling strategy against Ireland

Ireland’s innings began with promise as opener Paul Stirling top-scored with 38 runs off 27 deliveries, offering some early fireworks, complemented by Tim Tector’s quick 17. However, Bangladesh bowlers maintained tight lines and lengths to curb free scoring opportunities. Mahedi Hasan and Rishad Hossain bowled impressively, with Mahedi finishing with 1/24 in four overs and Rishad striking thrice for 21 runs. Shoriful Islam also contributed decisively, taking two wickets for 21 runs.

Most notably, Mustafizur Rahman was outstanding, claiming three crucial wickets for just 11 runs in his three overs, dismantling key Irish batters in the middle order. Ireland’s batting lineup faltered under sustained pressure and disciplined bowling, losing wickets at regular intervals and managing only 117 runs in 19.5 overs. Extras were kept minimal, showcasing Bangladesh’s control throughout Ireland’s innings.​

Tanzid Hasan’s blistering knock secures an emphatic T20I series win for Bangladesh

Chasing a below-par total, Bangladesh’s openers started positively but lost a couple of early wickets, with Saif Hassan contributing 19 runs before falling to Craig Young. The captain Litton Das could only manage seven before falling to Harry Tector. However, Tanzid anchored the chase brilliantly, displaying a blend of aggressive stroke play and calculated risk-taking. Tanzid’s 55* came off just 36 balls against tight bowling, laced with four boundaries and three sixes, ensuring a steady flow of runs. Partnering well with Parvez Hossain Emon (33* off 26 balls), the duo took charge and paced the chase expertly. They put on a resolute unbeaten partnership that guided Bangladesh home with more than six overs remaining, highlighting the dominance Bangladesh had in this match. Tanzid’s all-round impact extended into fielding as well, with multiple catches taken off Ireland’s bat, underlining his complete match-winning performance.​

Also READ: BAN vs IRE: Towel interference turns Litton Das’s catch into six as Bangladesh edge Ireland in last-over thriller

Overall, Bangladesh displayed superior strategy with ball and bat in the decisive T20I of the series. Their bowling attack stifled Ireland’s middle order, while Tanzid’s masterclass with the bat brought clinical finishing to the chase, earning Bangladesh a well-deserved and emphatic series victory on home soil. This victory gives Bangladesh momentum and confidence as they look ahead to future limited-overs fixtures.

Commanding win for Bangladesh ⚡#cricket #BANvsIRE #Bangladesh #CricketTwitter pic.twitter.com/12ZE5VmxYP

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) December 2, 2025

Also READ: Matthew Humphreys’ four-wicket haul powers Ireland to a dominant win over Bangladesh in the T20I opener

Vaibhav Suryavanshi, the 14-year-old prodigy from Bihar, scripted cricketing history on December 2, 2025, by becoming the youngest player ever to score a century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT). Opening against Maharashtra at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, the left-hander blazed an unbeaten 108 off 60 balls, featuring seven fours and seven sixes, powering Bihar to 176/3. This explosive knock eclipsed the previous mark held by Vijay Zol and highlighted Suryavanshi’s meteoric rise, following his IPL ton earlier this year and upcoming India U19 duties at the Asia Cup in Dubai.​

Record-breaking feat redefines youth in SMAT

Suryavanshi’s achievement at 14 years and 250 days old underscores a new era for domestic T20 cricket, where teenagers dominate headlines with fearless strokeplay. Previously struggling with scores of 14, 13, and 5 in earlier matches, he survived fielding lapses to forge a crucial 75-run stand with Ayush Loharuka (25* off 17). Maharashtra’s Arshin Kulkarni, Rajvardhan Hangargekar, and Vicky Ostwal claimed a wicket each, but could not stem the tide from the Rajasthan Royals sensation. This performance cements his status as a generational talent in India’s premier T20 domestic event.​

Top 5 youngest centurions in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

1. Vaibhav Suryavanshi (Bihar)

Suryavanshi stunned the cricket world by becoming the youngest centurion in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy history at just 14 years and 250 days. His unbeaten 108 runs off 60 balls featured a dazzling display of power hitting with 7 fours and 7 sixes. Opening the innings for Bihar against Maharashtra at the iconic Eden Gardens, Kolkata, Vaibhav set the tone with fearless strokeplay against a quality bowling attack. His innings helped Bihar post a competitive 176 for three, thanks also to a crucial 75-run partnership with Ayush Loharuka. Vaibhav’s ability to score big under pressure, combined with his swift footwork and timing, underlines his immense potential. Already on the radar for India U19 and an IPL star with Rajasthan Royals, he looks poised for a spectacular international career.​

2. Vijay Zol (Maharashtra)

Before Vaibhav’s record, Zol held the title of youngest centurion in SMAT with a brilliant 109 off 63 balls at 18 years and 118 days. Zol delivered this innings for Maharashtra against Mumbai in March 2013 at Ahmedabad. Known for his elegant left-hand batting technique, Vijay combined textbook strokes with aggression to challenge a formidable Mumbai bowling line-up. His century helped Maharashtra set a strong platform in a crucial domestic league. Zol’s career extended beyond domestic cricket as he represented India at U19 levels and has gained recognition for his consistency and temperament in the middle order. His record stood for over a decade, highlighting the exceptional nature of Vaibhav’s fresh feat.​

3. Ayush Mhatre (Mumbai)

Ayush Mhatre has emerged as a sensational young talent for Mumbai with two explosive centuries in the 2025 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. His first ton, 110* off 53 balls at 18 years and 135 days, came against Vidarbha in Lucknow. His innings featured a blend of aggressive six-hitting and crisp boundary driving, showcasing his natural flair. Just two days later, Ayush replicated his brilliance with an unbeaten 104 off 59 balls against Andhra Pradesh, also in Lucknow. His back-to-back centuries not only highlight his consistency but also his ability to handle pressure in T20 chases. Mhatre’s performances have placed him among the youngest players globally to register multiple T20 centuries in domestic cricket. His promising talent is expected to flourish further in upcoming national and IPL opportunities.​

Also READ: Abhishek Sharma shatters multiple records against Mohammed Shami’s Bengal in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025

4. Shaik Rasheed (Andhra Pradesh) 

Shaik Rasheed made his mark as the fifth youngest centurion in SMAT when he smashed 100* off just 54 balls at age 19 years and 25 days for Andhra Pradesh against Arunachal Pradesh in Ranchi in October 2013. A dynamic right-handed batter, Rasheed’s powerful hitting and quick scoring ability earned him recognition early on in India’s domestic T20 circuit. His century laid the foundation for Andhra Pradesh’s dominant total and demonstrated a mature understanding of pacing an innings. Since then, Rasheed has been noticed for his IPL performances with Chennai Super Kings, where his aggression and composure were further on display. He represents the growing class of younger players making rapid strides in T20 formats.

Also READ: 10 sixes, 12 fours: CSK batter Urvil Patel smashes 31-ball century in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Bollywood actress Mrunal Thakur has hilariously responded to the ongoing dating reports linking her to star Indian cricketer Shreyas Iyer, choosing humour over confrontation to address the escalating buzz.

Fans speculate secret romance between Mrunal Thakur and Shreyas Iyer

The dating speculation had been simmering for weeks, largely driven by social-media chatter rather than any credible evidence. It originated on Reddit, where anonymous posts hinted that the actress and the Indian middle-order batter had been quietly spending time together. As these unverified claims circulated across platforms like X, Instagram and Facevook fan pages, the rumour mill picked up speed, prompting fans to draw their own conclusions.

This isn’t the first time Mrunal has been at the receiving end of speculative gossip. Earlier this year, she was linked to actor Dhanush after an enthusiastic online exchange and their appearance together at a film premiere. Though the conversation went viral, no official statement confirming or denying any connection was released by either party. The actress has consistently maintained her stance of keeping personal matters out of the public domain.

Mrunal Thakur’s smart and graceful response to the dating buzz

Mrunal’s recent Instagram post has been widely praised for its tact and humour. Rather than fuelling the gossip cycle, she chose a relaxed, relatable moment with her mother to convey that she remains unfazed by rumours.

“They talk, we laugh. P.S. Rumours are free PR and I love free stuff!” she captioned her post. The witty line immediately caught fans’ attention and was widely interpreted as her way of shutting down speculation without issuing a direct denial or confirmation.

The post not only diffused the chatter but also showcased Mrunal’s composed, humorous approach to public scrutiny.

Also READ: Virat Kohli fans troll actress Mrunal Thakur over dig at star cricketer’s wife Anushka Sharma

Entertainment commentators noted that such light-hearted responses are increasingly becoming the preferred way for celebrities to address speculation without inviting more attention. By neither confirming nor denying the rumours about Shreyas, Mrunal maintained her privacy while subtly signalling that she does not take the speculation seriously.

Shreyas Iyer remains silent amid growing speculation

On the cricketing side, Shreyas Iyer has not commented on the rumours either. Focused on his rehabilitation for a spleen injury sustained during the Australia tour, the batter has maintained complete silence on the matter. His non-engagement has also prevented the rumours from escalating further.

Fans of both public figures have reacted positively to the subtle handling of the situation, applauding the maturity displayed by Mrunal. Several social-media users expressed that the actress’s humorous approach was a refreshing change from the typical cycle of aggressive denials or prolonged silence.

Also READ: Who is Edin Rose? The Dubai-born actress madly in love with Shreyas Iyer

The Sydney Sixers Women (SS-W) will take on the Melbourne Stars Women (MS-W) in Match 34 of WBBL|11 at Drummoyne Oval, Sydney, on Wednesday, in what shapes up as a pivotal mid-table contest with significant playoff ramifications.

The Sixers, with four wins from seven matches, are looking to build momentum at home, while the Stars – currently sitting slightly ahead with five victories in eight – aim to strengthen their push for a top-four finish.

The Sixers enter the clash with inconsistent form but continue to rely heavily on the brilliance of Ellyse Perry, who has already surpassed 250 runs this season while also contributing with the ball, taking 10 wickets. Ashleigh Gardner remains a major threat with her off-spin, especially on a pitch that rewards disciplined slower bowling.

For the Stars, Meg Lanning has been the cornerstone of their batting unit, scoring 301 runs at a strike rate above 130, while Annabel Sutherland spearheads the pace attack. However, concerns linger around their shaky middle order.

SS-W vs MS-W, WBBL|11: Match details

• Date and Time: December 3; 10:10 am IST/ 04:40 am GMT/ 03:40 pm Local
• Venue: Drummoyne Oval, Sydney

SS-W vs MS-W, Head-to-Head Record in WBBL

Matches played: 19 | Sydney Sixers won: 10 | Melbourne Stars won: 09 | No result: 0

Drummoyne Oval Pitch Report

Drummoyne Oval in Sydney typically offers a bowler-friendly surface and is regarded as a venue where low to moderate scores are common. The pitch often assists both pace and spin, and conditions under lights can make batting particularly tricky, giving teams chasing a slight edge. Because the surface provides movement and grip, bowlers who maintain accuracy tend to thrive, making strategic planning essential.

The Powerplay overs become pivotal, as batters look to capitalise on fielding restrictions before the pitch slows or bowlers find their rhythm. Shot selection and patience are crucial, given that even though the wicket provides consistent bounce, run-making can become challenging when bowlers hit the right areas.

Squads

Sydney Sixers Women: Sophia Dunkley, Ellyse Perry, Alyssa Healy(w), Ashleigh Gardner(c), Maitlan Brown, Amelia Kerr, Mady Villiers, Erin Burns, Caoimhe Bray, Lauren Kua, Lauren Cheatle, Mathilda Carmichael, Courtney Sippel, Emma Manix-Geeves, Elsa Hunter

Melbourne Stars Women: Meg Lanning, Maia Bouchier, Rhys McKenna, Amy Jones (wk), Annabel Sutherland  (c), Danielle Gibson, Kim Garth, Sasha Moloney, Maisy Gibson, Sophie Day, Sophie Reid, Ella Hayward, Georgia Prestwidge

Also READ – WBBL|11: Danni Wyatt-Hodge and Molly Strano help Hobart Hurricanes clinch dominating win over Melbourne Stars

SS-W vs MS-W, WBBL|11: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Sydney Sixers Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Melbourne Stars Women’s powerplay score: 40-50
• Melbourne Stars Women’s total score: 140-150

Case 2:

• Melbourne Stars Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Sydney Sixers Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
• Sydney Sixers Women’s total score: 150-160

Match result: Team batting second to win the match.

Also READ: What if India legend Jhulan Goswami was part of WPL auction?

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