Harshit Rana delivered his most defining performance yet in the opening ODI against South Africa in Ranchi. Under pressure after months of scrutiny, the young pacer responded with raw pace, accuracy and intent. His spell not only broke South Africa’s early resistance but also shifted the momentum firmly towards India. But it was his emotional, fiery send-off to Dewald Brevis that became one of the biggest talking points of the match.

Harshit Rana gives an fiery send off to Dewald Brevis after dismissing him during IND vs SA ODI game in Ranchi

Rana’s moment of intensity unfolded the second he removed the dangerous Brevis, a wicket that carried far more weight than just numbers. Bowling with rhythm and confidence during a crucial passage of play, Rana tempted Brevis into going aerial over cover, only for the batter to mistime it straight to Ruturaj Gaikwad, who completed a clean catch. The dismissal instantly lifted India’s spirits, but Rana’s reaction became the highlight, an animated, charged send-off as he pointed Brevis toward the pavilion, a gesture reflecting months of bottled-up frustration and the relief of delivering when it mattered most.

His celebration spread across social media within minutes, sparking debates about aggression, passion, and acceptable on-field conduct. Many viewed it as a raw display of competitiveness from a bowler trying to cement his place, while others saw it as a moment that could attract ICC attention, potentially leading to a fine. What stood out, however, was how this fiery reaction encapsulated Rana’s journey: a promising pacer criticized heavily in the past year, finally responding with performance and personality. His three early wickets, including Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock for ducks, set the tone for India’s dominance, but the Brevis send-off ensured that Rana walked off the field not just as a wicket-taker, but as one of the match’s central characters, blending skill, emotion and high-stakes theatre into a single unforgettable moment.

Here’s the video:

Need a breakthrough? Call Harshit Rana! 📞

A fine catch by Ruturaj as the dangerman Dewald Brevis departs 👏#INDvSA 1st ODI, LIVE NOW 👉 https://t.co/BBkwein9oF pic.twitter.com/w4PAuCIgUR

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 30, 2025

Also READ: IND vs SA: Fans go gaga after Virat Kohli silences critics as he lights up Ranchi with his 52nd ODI hundred

IND vs SA 1st ODI, Ranchi: South Africa fighting hard against India

India’s commanding total of 349/8 has set up a gripping contest in the first ODI at Ranchi, but South Africa have staged a spirited counterattack after a disastrous start. Virat Kohli’s majestic 135 (120), supported by Rohit Sharma’s fluent 57 and KL Rahul’s well-paced 60, powered India to a strong total despite regular breakthroughs from Marco Jansen, Nandre Burger and Baartman. South Africa’s reply began in shambles with Rickelton (0), de Kock (0) and skipper Aiden Markram (7) gone inside 5 overs, reducing them to 11/3.

But Matt Breetzke and Tony de Zorzi rebuilt with a 66-run stand before Kuldeep Yadav’s double-wicket burst halted the momentum. Dewald Brevis’ explosive 37 kept the chase alive, and then Jansen shifted the game dramatically with a stunning 70 off 39, smashing eight fours and three sixes. His counterattack, combined with Corbin Bosch’s calm unbeaten 28, has kept South Africa fighting at 278/8 after 42 overs, needing 72 runs off 48 balls. With six overs left and one frontline wicket remaining, this match is perfectly poised for a tense finish.

Also WATCH: IND vs SA: Virat Kohli’s 52nd ODI century celebrations interrupted after a fan slips past security and bows at his feet in Ranchi

India kicked off the ODI series against South Africa under the weight of scrutiny, following a 2–0 loss in the preceding Test series. With regular captain Shubman Gill sidelined, the team faced early challenges but displayed poise and resilience, clinching a 17-run win in the opening match of the three-game series in Ranchi.

IND vs SA: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli lead vintage Indian innings

Yashasvi Jaiswal’s early departure for 18 left India teetering, but Rohit Sharma responded with a blend of caution and calculated aggression, scoring 57 off 51 balls and surpassing Shahid Afridi’s record for most ODI sixes. Kohli’s 135 off 120 balls was a masterclass in timing and shot selection, bringing up his 83rd international century.

Amid a flurry of wickets, Virat Kohli maintained composure, surpassing Sachin Tendulkar for the most centuries against South Africa in 50 over format and overtaking Ricky Ponting for most sixes as a No. 3 batter. The duo’s partnership was instrumental in propelling India to 349/8, with contributions from KL Rahul and Ravindra Jadeja ensuring a strong finish. The innings blended technical precision, mental resilience, and tactical acumen, putting South Africa under immediate pressure. The Ranchi crowd erupted at every milestone, reflecting the significance of the performance. Kohli’s acceleration, particularly in the latter overs, demonstrated his unmatched ability to dominate in high-stakes situations.

Also READ: IND vs SA: Fans go gaga after Virat Kohli silences critics as he lights up Ranchi with his 52nd ODI hundred

Harshit Rana and Kuldeep Yadav seal India’s convincing victory

Chasing 350, South Africa’s innings began in a precarious manner, losing Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock to Harshit Rana in quick succession. Aiden Markram followed, dismissed by Arshdeep Singh, leaving the visitors reeling at 11/3. Dewald Brevis’s 37 offered resistance, and a 97-run partnership between Matthew Breetzke (72) and Marco Jansen (70) revived faint hopes. However, Kuldeep Yadav’s pivotal over removed both batters, breaking the partnership and swinging control back to India. Despite late contributions from Corbin Bosch and Prenelan Subrayen, the required run rate proved insurmountable.

The disciplined bowling, strategic field placements, and aggressive pace from the Indian bowlers maintained consistent pressure. Harshit Rana’s fiery spells, coupled with Yadav’s sharp spin, exemplified India’s tactical execution. Arshdeep’s early breakthroughs provided a solid foundation for the innings. The fielding unit complemented the bowling, saving crucial runs and maintaining intensity throughout the innings. South Africa’s inability to rotate strike effectively compounded their difficulties. Even experienced batters struggled against India’s varied attack, demonstrating the home side’s dominance. India closed out a 17-run victory, taking a 1–0 lead in the series. The win reinstated confidence post the Test series defeat, reinforcing India’s control over the ODI campaign.

Here’s the fans reacted:

मेरे तन के ज़ख़्म ना गिन अभी,
मेरी आँख में अभी नूर है

मेरी बाज़ुओं पे निगाह कर,
जो ग़ुरूर था वो ग़ुरूर है #INDvSA #ViratKohli #RohitSharma pic.twitter.com/wqqUXC3VYx

— Wasim Jaffer (@WasimJaffer14) November 30, 2025

The OGs are back with a bang 🔥🇮🇳#INDvSA pic.twitter.com/k3vd5Y0iYB

— Punjab Kings (@PunjabKingsIPL) November 30, 2025

He is back in his engine room. #ODI
👌👌 Top class #INDvRSA pic.twitter.com/jS9762AV9h

— Ashwin 🇮🇳 (@ashwinravi99) November 30, 2025

This is brilliant stuff from Harshit Rana. Making the new ball talk 👏

— Irfan Pathan (@IrfanPathan) November 30, 2025

This guy can bat a little

— Dale Steyn (@DaleSteyn62) November 30, 2025

Kumble won India a lot of ODIs in the 90s but you’d have to go with Kuldeep as their finest ever spinner in this format. He’s not just maximised novelty but also evolved and upgraded himself to be a match-winner even now.

— KASHISH (@crickashish217) November 30, 2025

Another special day for @imVkohli 52nd ODI hundred and still setting the standard for consistency and hunger. Brilliant innings. 💯🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/IXrCyjkcyg

— Shikhar Dhawan (@SDhawan25) November 30, 2025

Virat Kohli’s 83rd century is a testament to his passion and discipline, which continues to set new benchmarks. His remarkable journey remains an inspiration for every young cricketer. A fabulous knock @imVkohli @BCCI pic.twitter.com/B33jitvK5H

— Rajeev Shukla (@ShuklaRajiv) November 30, 2025

Such a good cricket match. At 11-3, we thought there was an early finish looming. But a combination of grit, skill and a wet ball has given South Africa a whiff

— Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) November 30, 2025

India score 349 and hold their nerves to win by 17 runs against South Africa in Ranchi!

Scorecard: https://t.co/Eqm8mZhQwr#india #INDvsSA #1stODI #ranchi #viratkohli pic.twitter.com/QjqYh5ylJz

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 30, 2025

Also WATCH: IND vs SA: Virat Kohli’s 52nd ODI century celebrations interrupted after a fan slips past security and bows at his feet in Ranchi

Rohit Sharma’s emotional reaction to Virat Kohli’s 52nd ODI century in Ranchi turned into one of the most cherished highlights of the night, capturing the warmth and deep trust that defines the duo’s long partnership.

Rohit Sharma’s delightful reaction goes viral after Virat Kohli reaches his Ranchi hundred

As soon as Kohli raised his bat, Rohit was seen in the dressing room breaking into a wide grin, clapping vigorously and leaning forward with childlike excitement, a moment that fans immediately embraced online. Cameras caught Rohit seemingly mouthing a few affectionate words, believed to be a mix of encouragement and admiration, reflecting how naturally he celebrates Kohli’s success as his own. Social media quickly exploded with clips, edits and memes, applauding the sheer purity of the moment and labeling it as one of the best displays of camaraderie between the two modern greats.

The reaction also highlighted how their bond has evolved from competitive young talents to senior pillars who revel in each other’s milestones. Fans noted that Rohit’s expressions echoed a sense of pride, almost as if he knew how important this century was for Kohli at this stage of his career. The moment symbolized how their relationship has matured into something deeper than just batting partnerships. Whether leading as captain or cheering from the sidelines, Rohit continues to amplify Kohli’s achievements with genuine affection. His reaction was not only heartwarming but a subtle reminder that Indian cricket stands strongest when these two giants stand together.

Here’s the video:

Rohit Sharma is every Virat Kohli fan right now celebrating Virat Kohli 52nd ODI century against South Africa!#INDvSA #ViratKohli pic.twitter.com/4LBkCeb4Br

— Vishal Verma (@VishalVerma_9) November 30, 2025

Also READ: IND vs SA: Fans go gaga after Virat Kohli silences critics as he lights up Ranchi with his 52nd ODI hundred

India in control as South Africa struggle in steep 350 chase

India’s total of 349/8 has placed them firmly ahead in the first ODI in Ranchi, and the match has tilted further in their favour with South Africa reeling at 136/5 in 22.2 overs. Harshit Rana struck twice in the first over of his spell, removing Ryan Rickelton and Quinton de Kock to leave the visitors stunned at 7/2. Arshdeep Singh added to the early damage with the wicket of Aiden Markram, tightening India’s grip on the contest. Tony de Zorzi and Matthew Breetzke briefly revived the chase with positive strokeplay, but Kuldeep Yadav broke the partnership right when it started to look threatening.

Dewald Brevis counterattacked with three sixes, but he too fell to Harshit, ending South Africa’s last major hope. At 136/5, the required run rate has soared to 7.73, and the pressure is mounting rapidly on the lower order. India’s bowlers have maintained superb discipline, using the pitch’s grip and uneven bounce smartly, while the fielders have backed them up with sharp efforts inside the circle. With only Marco Jansen showing some intent, the chase now hinges on a miracle effort from the tail. India, meanwhile, are hunting for quick wickets to wrap up the innings early.

Also WATCH: Dewald Brevis leaves Virat Kohli shell-shocked with a stunning catch to dismiss Ruturaj Gaikwad – IND vs SA,1st ODI

After participating in all 14 seasons of the Indian Premier League (IPL), South Africa’s veteran batter Faf du Plessis has this time decided to opt out of the tournament. He will be not be registering for the IPL 2026 auction, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 17.

Why Faf du Plessis has pulled himself out of IPL 2026 auction?

In an official statement on his social media handles, du Plessis confirmed he has decided not to register for the IPL 2026 auction and will instead play the 2026 season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He described the move as a chance to experience a different league, conditions, and environment, calling it an “exciting step” for his late-career phase. The 41-year-old has previously featured briefly in the PSL, and now plans a full-season stint there.

Du Plessis said that after playing in every season of the IPL, he felt it was the right time to step back from the tournament this year and reflect on what the league has meant to him. He thanked franchises, teammates, coaches and fans, calling the IPL a “massive part” of his journey and stressing that India holds a “special place” in his heart, while adding that “this isn’t goodbye” and he hopes to be seen in the league again in future.

Also READ: No David Warner! Mandeep Singh reveals his all-time IPL XI

Du Plessis’s IPL stats

The decision also comes on the back of a modest IPL 2025 with Delhi Capitals (DC), where he scored 202 runs in nine matches at an average around 22 and was not retained ahead of the 2026 mini-auction. With age, recent returns and team strategies all weighing in, he chose not to test the auction market this year, avoiding the possibility of going unsold while redirecting his focus fully to PSL opportunities.

Overall, Du Plessis has amassed 4,773 runs in 154 IPL matches, boasting an average of 35.10 and a strike rate of 135.79, with 39 fifties but no centuries – his highest score being 96. The Proteas star delivered standout seasons like 730 runs in 2023 for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (average 56.15, SR 153.68, 8 fifties) and 633 in 2021 for Chennai Super Kings (average 45.21, SR 138.21, 6 fifties). He contributed 2,721 runs for CSK across multiple stints, including IPL titles in 2012 and 2021, before leading RCB’s batting from 2022-2024 with 1,636 runs (730 in 2023 his peak). Released by Delhi Capitals post-2025, du Plessis holds no IPL bowling wickets (0/16 best) but excels in fielding with 85 catches.

Also READ: Herschelle Gibbs hilariously reacts to Faf du Plessis’ viral topless photos showing off insane fitness at 41

Ahead of the highly anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction scheduled for December, a lighthearted video of Indian cricketers Yuzvendra Chahal, Ravi Bishnoi and Arshdeep Singh has gone viral on social media. The trio, who share a camaraderie, discussed Bishnoi’s fate after his surprise release from the Lucknow Super Giants. The conversation took a humorous turn when Chahal shared a prediction for the young spinner.

Yuzvendra Chahal confirms which IPL Franchise Ravi Bishnoi will join in 2026 edition

The fun conversation unfolded on an Instagram Live session where the three players candidly addressed user queries about the upcoming IPL auction and Bishnoi’s future. When a user asked about the possibility of Bishnoi joining Chennai Super Kings (CSK), his Punjab Kings teammate Arshdeep Singh responded with a joke that the matter was beyond Bishnoi’s control. The young leg-spinner, who was released by the Lucknow Super Giants despite being retained for a substantial ₹11 crore before last year’s mega auction, replied humorously that the team had “tied my hands and thrown me away,” rendering him “unemployed.”

The key exchange then occurred when Yuzvendra Chahal chimed in with his prediction, stating, “I have a feeling Bishnoi will go to Rajasthan.” Bishnoi, playing along, responded, “Then we can’t go against your feelings.” Chahal then delivered the sarcastic punchline that immediately went viral, warning Bishnoi about the consequences of disagreeing with him: “Go against my feelings, otherwise he’ll be stuck playing domestic cricket.” All three cricketers broke into laughter, clearly enjoying the camaraderie and the playful banter ahead of the auction.

Yuzi Chahal – Bishnoi mujhe feeling aa rhi hai Rajasthan jayega IPL mai.

Ravi Bishnoi – To bs apki feeling k against thodi na jayenge.

Yuzi Chahal – Ja bhai vrna meri tarah domestic hi khelta rh jayega 🤣 pic.twitter.com/COuAY3lSyX

— VIKAS (@Vikas662005) November 28, 2025

Also READ: IPL 2026: 5 teams that can target Andre Russell in the mini-auction

IPL 2026: Bishnoi’s release from Lucknow Super Giants

The context of the conversation lies in Bishnoi’s surprising release by the Super Giants and Chahal’s own past experiences with the selection process for the national team. Bishnoi, a Rajasthan native, was a high-value retention for LSG, and his current inclusion in the auction pool makes him a sought-after commodity. While Bishnoi is now up for auction, Chahal remains with the Punjab Kings, alongside Arshdeep, a team Bishnoi has also previously represented in the IPL.

Chahal also previously played for Rajasthan. He was part of the team from 2022 to 2024. Despite performing well for Rajasthan in the IPL, he was not given a chance in the Indian team for key tournaments. Despite taking 96 wickets in 80 T20 Internationals for India, Chahal missed selection for the T20 World Cup 2024 and did not play a single match in the 2022 edition, even when included in the squad.

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

The opening Test of the Ashes 2025-26 series concluded in a rapid two days at Perth Stadium, with Australia securing an eight-wicket victory over England. Despite the game’s brevity and the challenging conditions, the ICC match referee controversially awarded the Perth pitch a ‘very good’ rating.

However, Australian opener Usman Khawaja strongly disagreed with this assessment, publicly and emphatically criticizing the Day 1 surface for its unpredictable and dangerous nature. Khawaja’s comments, made at an event for his foundation, highlight the disparity between player experience and official pitch ratings.

Usman Khawaja rejects ‘very good’ rating by ICC with strong criticism

Khawaja, speaking at an event for his Usman Khawaja Foundation, publicly condemned the Perth Stadium pitch, contrasting his view sharply with the ICC’s highest possible rating. The Australian opener was uncompromising in his assessment of the Day 1 surface, emphasizing the undue difficulty and danger it posed to the batters: “Nineteen wickets on the first day and about 20 people got hit, that’s a great wicket – that seems real fair.” He criticised the unpredictable “up and down” bounce as the hardest factor to deal with, explaining the difficulty for batsmen: “You can’t really predict up and down. Up and down is the hardest – sideways is a little bit easier but up and down, your hands can’t catch up.”

Khawaja stressed that the conditions were so severe they troubled the world’s elite players, noting the difficulty in connecting with the ball: “He’s missing the middle of his bat by a long way – he does not miss the middle of his bat. He’s getting hit in the elbow, he’s getting hit.” He insisted this issue was recurring, having observed “The same thing happened last year in the Indian Test.” The bater did concede that the pitch improved later, stating: “So day one wicket at (Perth) is a piece of s*, I’m happy to say that. It has been last year, it was this year. They do get better. Day two, day three, and then day four, they start to crack up.”

Also READ: Ashes 2025-26: Australia announce 14-man squad for the Gabba Test, Pat Cummins still out

England’s Bazball blasted by Travis Head in Perth as Australia clinches shortest Ashes Test result in 104 years

The Ashes series commenced with a stunningly brief First Test in Perth, concluding in a dominant eight-wicket victory for Australia inside just two days, marking the shortest completed Ashes match since 1921. England, opting to bat first, were quickly run through by the Australian fast bowlers, who repeatedly exploited a pitch that provided excessive seam movement and unpredictable bounce, leading to an astonishing 19 wickets falling on the chaotic opening day. Although England managed a 40-run first-innings lead, their middle-order suffered a catastrophic collapse in the second innings, setting Australia a challenging but chaseable target of 205 runs on the second afternoon.

The chase was transformed from daunting to decisive by the promotion of Travis Head, who stepped up to open in the absence of the injured Khawaja. Head played a brutal, career-defining counter-attacking innings, blasting 123 runs off just 83 balls, reaching his century off 69 deliveries, the second-fastest in Ashes history, to completely flatten the English attack and make a mockery of the aggressive ‘Bazball’ tactics. This whirlwind performance, which saw Australia motor past the target at an unheard-of run rate, secured a 1-0 lead in the five-Test series for the hosts, leaving the English camp, in the words of their captain, “shell-shocked” and struggling to comprehend their rapid capitulation ahead of the day-night fixture at the Gabba.

Also READ: Fans stunned as Australia captain Alyssa Healy goes unsold in WPL 2026 mega auction

Sydney Sixers Women will take on Sydney Thunder Women in the 31st match of the Women’s Big Bash League 2025 at North Sydney Oval tomorrow. This crosstown Sydney derby promises a high-stakes contest as both squads aim to strengthen their playoff ambitions with two valuable points on offer.​

Sydney Sixers are riding on strong form, featuring a stacked lineup led by Ashleigh Gardner (captain) and seasoned stars like Ellyse Perry, Alyssa Healy, Sophia Dunkley, and the returning Amelia Kerr. Recent contributions from the top order and wicket-taking bowlers Maitlan Brown and Lauren Cheatle have kept them near the top of the table. Sydney Thunder have shown flashes of brilliance this season, boasting a core of Phoebe Litchfield (captain), Tahlia Wilson, international all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu, England star Heather Knight, and the pace of Shabnim Ismail and Hannah Darlington. However, recent batting collapses have hampered their momentum in the league.​

The Sixers clinched a narrow win over Hobart Hurricanes in their last outing, with standout performances from Dunkley (50 runs) and Perry setting up respectable totals. Their bowling efficiently defended runs under pressure, led by Gardner and Mady Villiers.​Thunder, despite a strong start to the season, were unable to build partnerships against Melbourne Renegades and struggled to cross 70 in their last match, needing their middle order and bowling unit to regroup.

SS-W vs ST-W, WBBL 2025: Match details

• Date and Time: November 30; 10:10 pm IST/ 04:40 am GMT/ 03:40 pm Local
• Venue: North Sydney Oval, Sydney

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

Matches played: 19 | Sydney Thunder won: 07 | Sydney Sixers won: 11 | No result: 01

North Sydney Oval Pitch Report

North Sydney Oval presents a balanced yet batting-friendly surface for the Sydney Sixers Women vs Sydney Thunder Women WBBL clash, with true bounce and quick outfields favoring stroke-makers early on. Seamers like Cheatle and Shabnim Ismail may extract swing and movement in the powerplay, but the flat pitch eases as the game progresses, often leading to high scores around 160-170 in the first innings. Teams winning the toss typically bat first to capitalize on these conditions, while spinners such as Gardner could find grip later. Expect a run feast under lights if dew plays a role, rewarding aggressive top-order batting from stars like Perry and Litchfield.

Squads

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

Sydney Thunder: Georgia Voll, Tahlia Wilson (wk), Phoebe Litchfield (c), Heather Knight, Chamari Athapaththu, Anika Learoyd, Laura Harris, Hasrat Gill, Taneale Peschel, Shabnim Ismail, Samantha Bates, Hannah Darlington, Sienna Eve, Lucy Finn, Ella Briscoe, Alexandra Mavros

Also READ: WBBL|11: Meg Lanning guides Melbourne Stars to top of the table with 45-run win Melbourne Renegades

SS-W vs ST-W, WBBL 2025: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Sydney Thunder Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Sydney Thunder Women’s powerplay score: 40-50
• Sydney Thunder Women’s total score: 170-180

Case 2:

• Sydney Sixers Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Sydney Sixers Women’s powerplay score: 55-65
• Sydney Sixers Women’s total score: 180-190

Match result: Team bowling first to win the game.

Also READ: WBBL|11: Sophie Devine’s all-round show powers Perth Scorchers to a dominant win over Melbourne Renegades

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

On the eve of the first ODI against South Africa in Ranchi, India’s stand-in skipper KL Rahul addressed the media, confirming the selection dilemma regarding opener Ruturaj Gaikwad. Following a humiliating 0-2 whitewash in the preceding Test series, the Indian team is eager to turn their fortunes around in the shorter formats, starting with the three ODIs. Rahul gave a glowing assessment of Gaikwad’s abilities but acknowledged the difficulty in finding a spot for him due to the settled nature of the top order.

KL Rahul’s high praise for Ruturaj Gaikwad’s class ahead of IND vs SA ODI series

Stand-in captain Rahul was effusive in his praise for Gaikwad, recognizing the young opener’s quality and his compelling form that earned him a recall to the national side. Gaikwad’s inclusion comes on the back of impressive domestic performances, notably his stunning exploits against South Africa A, where he registered scores of 117, 68*, and 25 in the unofficial One-Dayers. Rahul conceded that Gaikwad is a “top-class player. We’ve all seen that whatever limited opportunities he has received, he has utilised them well and shown what he can do.”

However, Rahul explained the persistent selection challenge: “Unfortunately, in ODIs, the top five or six is quite settled and performing well, so you feel bad for players who don’t get enough chances.” He acknowledged the current situation, where injuries to key players like Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer have opened up opportunities, must be seized: “It’s unfortunate for those missing out, but with a few injuries, he now has an opportunity.” Rahul concluded by affirming the team management’s intent to play the young batsman: “He will get his chance at some stage. We’re looking forward to giving him that opportunity and letting him show what he can do.”

Also READ: Parthiv Patel reveals his predicted India XI for 1st ODI vs South Africa; leaves out superstar player

IND vs SA: Rahul clears the air on Gaikwad’s participation in Ranchi ODI

Rahul stressed that while Gaikwad’s skill level has never been in question, his chance hinged purely on timing, suggesting the current series against South Africa could be his long-awaited opportunity to cement his place. Gaikwad last played an ODI during India’s 2023 tour of South Africa, and the current series presents his best shot at consistent selection due to the absence of regular openers.

Rahul reiterated the management’s view that the series offers a chance for the young talent to shine, stating: “There’s never been a question about his skill – it’s only about the right opportunity and timing. Hopefully, this series gives him that chance.” The ODI series against Temba Bavuma‘s South African side, beginning on Sunday, is critical for the Indian team to redeem themselves after their demoralizing Test performance, making any potential selection of Gaikwad a high-stakes decision aimed at adding stability and form to the batting unit.

Also READ: Ayush Mhatre breaks Rohit Sharma’s record with exceptional century in Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy 2025

Mandeep Singh has unveiled a star-studded all-time IPL XI that features several modern greats but surprisingly leaves out record-breaking name like David Warner.

Speaking to CricTracker, Mandeep, a veteran of 14 IPL seasons with 111 appearances, has built his reputation as a prolific domestic run-getter and a reliable T20 anchor, recently leading Punjab to the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title in 2023 to end a three-decade drought for the state. After moving to Tripura for the 2024–25 domestic season, he captained across formats and compiled consistent scores in Ranji Trophy, Vijay Hazare Trophy and Syed Mushtaq Ali, even as the team failed to go beyond the group stages. His experience across franchises and domestic setups lends weight to his choices in an all-time IPL XI picked in an interaction with CricTracker.​

Mandeep Singh’s bold revelation of all time IPL XI

For the XI, Mandeep opted for an all-Indian opening pair of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, banking on their proven IPL pedigree and big-match temperament at the top. Suresh Raina, long hailed as “Mr IPL” for his consistency with Chennai Super Kings, was slotted at No. 3, followed by AB de Villiers at No. 4 to provide explosiveness and versatility in the middle overs. Ravindra Jadeja and MS Dhoni complete a power-packed core, with Dhoni taking over the dual role of wicketkeeper and captain, underlining his unmatched legacy as a leader and finisher in the league.​

Also READ: Ayush Mhatre breaks Rohit Sharma’s record with exceptional century in Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 Trophy 2025

Power-packed lower order and big omissions

In the lower middle order, Hardik Pandya is the lone seam-bowling all-rounder, giving balance with his ability to bowl in different phases and clear the ropes at the death. The pace attack is headlined by Lasith Malinga and Jasprit Bumrah, a pair that terrorized opposition batters for years at Mumbai Indians with yorkers and variations across multiple title-winning campaigns.

The spin department is equally intimidating, with Rashid Khan and Sunil Narine chosen as frontline tweakers, combining mystery, control and lower-order hitting to cover multiple roles. As Impact Player, Mandeep has gone for Chris Gayle, the “Universe Boss”, whose record for most sixes and the highest individual IPL score (175*) makes him one of the most destructive T20 openers of all time.​

However, the talking point is not just who made the cut, but who missed out. Mandeep’s XI does not feature Yuzvendra Chahal, the league’s leading wicket-taker with over 220 scalps, despite his sustained success across franchises in the middle overs. Even more eye-catching is the absence of Warner, the only player to have won the Orange Cap three times and one of the highest run-getters and half-century makers in IPL history, widely regarded as the most successful overseas batter in the tournament. The exclusions highlight the difficulty of compressing more than 17 years of IPL excellence into a single XI, while also revealing Mandeep’s clear preference for multi-dimensional cricketers who offer leadership, flexibility and impact in multiple phases of a T20 game.

Mandeep Singh’s all-time IPL XI

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Suresh Raina, AB de Villiers, Ravindra Jadeja, MS Dhoni (c & wk), Hardik Pandya, Lasith Malinga, Jasprit Bumrah, Rashid Khan, Sunil Narine.

Also READ: After trading Sanju Samson, Rajasthan Royals consider ownership change ahead of IPL 2026

Pakistan secured the Pakistan T20I Tri-Series 2025/26 title with a commanding six-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the final at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Saturday. Opting to field first after winning the toss, Pakistan’s bowlers dismantled Sri Lanka for just 114 in 19.1 overs, setting up a straightforward chase completed in 18.4 overs. Saim Ayub‘s dual impact and Mohammad Nawaz‘s incisive spell proved decisive in this high-stakes night encounter under the floodlights.​

Mohammad Nawaz’s exceptional spell crumbles Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka raced to 56 for 1 in the powerplay, powered by Kamil Mishara‘s aggressive 59 off 47 balls, including two fours and four sixes, after Pathum Nissanka‘s brisk 11 fell early to Shaheen Shah Afridi. The momentum shifted dramatically post-drinks at 81 for 1 in 10 overs, as Mohammad Nawaz unleashed a fiery four-over spell of 17 runs for 3 wickets, dismissing Kusal Mendis (14), Janith Liyanage (0), and Wanindu Hasaranga (5) to spark a collapse.​

The last eight wickets tumbled for 30 runs, with fall of wickets accelerating from 84 for 2 (10.3 overs) to all out at 114—Pavan Rathnayake (8) and Kusal Perera (1) to Abrar Ahmed, Dasun Shanaka (2) to Shaheen, and tailenders cleaned up by Salman Mirza and Shaheen’s 3 for 18. Nawaz’s economical 4.25 run rate and sharp turn exploited the Rawalpindi surface, while Ayub chipped in with 1 for 17, including Mishara’s catch off his bowling. Extras added 13, but Pakistan’s collective effort restricted Sri Lanka below 120.​

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Saim Ayub’s blistering knock powers Pakistan to a commanding victory

Chasing 115, Pakistan navigated the powerplay at 32 for 0 before Eshan Malinga struck, removing Sahibzada Farhan (23 off 22) at 46 for 1 in 7.3 overs. Ayub then unleashed a blistering 36 off 33 balls—laced with six fours—to propel the score to 50 in 7.5 overs and 71 for 1 at the 10-over drinks interval. His lbw departure to Wanindu Hasaranga at 75 for 2 (11.3 overs) brought Babar Azam (37 not out off 34, with two fours and a six) to the fore, steadying the innings amid a successful DRS review. Pavan Rathnayake fought back with 2 for 11, accounting for Salman Agha (14 off 14) at 98 for 3 (15.3 overs) and Fakhar Zaman (3 off 5) at 104 for 4 (17.1 overs), but Babar and Usman Khan (3 not out) calmly finished the job and guided hosts home with 8 balls left at 118/4.

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