India vs South Africa, 2nd Test at Guwahati produced its first truly viral moment on Day 2 when Ravindra Jadeja outfoxed Kyle Verreynne with a classic piece of left-arm spin and sharp glovework from skipper Rishabh Pant. Even so, South Africa marched to a strong 360/7 at Drinks in the second session, tightening their grip on the contest after choosing to bat first.​

Ravindra Jadeja’s clever trap floors Kyle Verreynne on Day 2

The flashpoint arrived in the 121st over, with South Africa 334/6 and Verreynne and Senuran Muthusamy deep into an 88‑run stand that had begun to seriously frustrate India. Having watched the wicketkeeper‑batter repeatedly use his feet, Jadeja adjusted beautifully: he held his length back a touch, pushed the ball wider, and got it to rip away sharply as Verreynne advanced down the pitch.​

Verreynne, on 45 off 122 balls with five fours, was left prodding at thin air as the ball spun past his jab, and Pant completed the stumping with quick hands, prompting a brief check from the TV umpire to confirm the take was clean. Once replays showed Pant collecting the ball behind the stumps, Verreynne had to walk, ending an 88‑run partnership that had dragged South Africa from a potentially fragile 246/6 to a commanding 334/7. Jadeja’s figures moved to 2 for 57 from 22.3 overs at that stage, underlining his control and accuracy on a surface that has offered slow, steady turn rather than demons.​

The dismissal also highlighted Pant’s dual role as captain and wicketkeeper, with his aggressive use of spin from both ends backed up by sharp work standing up to the stumps. For India, the breakthrough was as much psychological as it was tactical, briefly re‑energising the attack after a long, attritional morning and early‑afternoon grind.​

Here’s the video:

Experience pays off! 👏

Clever move from #RavindraJadeja, fires the ball wide as he saw Verreynne stepping out. 💪#INDvSA 2nd Test, Day 2 LIVE NOW 👉https://t.co/J8u4bmcZud pic.twitter.com/zlAfYkyv5b

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 23, 2025

Also READ: Fans brutally troll KL Rahul for dropping Aiden Markram’s catch on Day 1 of second Test

Senuran Muthusamy leads South Africa to seize control on Day 2

Despite Jadeja’s intervention, South Africa finished the day well ahead in the game, finishing at 489 with Muthusamy (109) smashing maiden century and Marco Jansen (93) falling just short of what could be a tremendous ton. The visitors’ decision to bat first has been vindicated by a series of solid contributions: Aiden Markram (38), Ryan Rickelton (35), Tristan Stubbs (49), Temba Bavuma (41) and Tony de Zorzi (28) all got in and ensured India were never allowed a cluster of cheap top‑order wickets.​

India’s bowlers had their moments—Kuldeep Yadav’s 4 for 115 kept the hosts in the contest, while Jasprit Bumrah’s 2 for 75 and Mohammed Siraj’s 2 for 106 reflected sustained discipline on a slow pitch with modest assistance. Washington Sundar’s economy (26-5-58-0) helped apply pressure even without wickets, but the lack of a decisive collapse meant South Africa could build in phases: 247/6 at stumps on Day 1, to 489 before being all out.

Also WATCH: Yashasvi Jaiswal takes a blinder to remove Temba Bavuma on Day 1 of the Guwahati Test

The much-anticipated wedding of star Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana and music composer Palash Muchhal has been indefinitely postponed after a sudden and distressing medical emergency in the family. According to media reports, Smriti’s father, Srinivas Mandhana, suffered a heart attack during the final preparations for the ceremony on Sunday morning, November 23, 2025.

The incident cast a shadow over what was set to be a grand celebration, prompting the family to immediately halt all festivities and rush Mr.Srinivas to the hospital.

Sudden health scare on Wedding day of Smriti Mandhana

The emergency occurred at the Mandhana Farm House in Samdol, Sangli, the venue for the wedding. According to sources, Mr. Srinivas began feeling unwell while having breakfast on the morning the couple was scheduled to tie the knot. An ambulance was immediately called to the venue and Mr. Srinivas was rushed to a private hospital in Sangli for urgent medical care. The swift response was crucial in stabilising his condition.

The latest updates indicate that while the scare was severe, Mr. Srinivas’s condition is currently stable and he is under close observation by doctors. Smriti and her immediate family members rushed to the hospital upon receiving the news, prioritising his health above all else. The family has been assured that he is out of immediate danger, though he remains hospitalised for the time being.

Smriti Mandhana’s wedding has been postponed indefinitely due to her father’s sudden health problems

— Vikrant Gupta (@vikrantgupta73) November 23, 2025

Also WATCH: Smriti Mandhana kicks off wedding celebrations with epic dance featuring Jemimah Rodrigues, Shreyanka Patil and World Cup winning stars

Marriage postponed indefinitely

The postponement was officially confirmed by Smriti’s business manager, Tuhin Mishra, who released a statement detailing the sequence of events and the family’s decision.

“This morning, while he was having breakfast, Smriti’s father, Mr. Srinivas Mandhana, suddenly started feeling unwell. We waited for a while, hoping he might feel better, but his condition kept worsening. So we decided not to take any risk, called an ambulance, and took him to the hospital. He is currently under observation,” said Mishra while talking to reporters.

Mishra further added that the decision to indefinitely postpone the wedding was taken by the cricketer herself.

“Smriti is very close to her father, so she has decided that until her father gets back on track, the marriage will be postponed indefinitely,” added Mishra.

Also WATCH: Star batter Smriti Mandhana flaunts her fun side in a pre-wedding dance with soon-to-be husband Palash Muchhal

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

Sydney Thunder Women will face Melbourne Renegades Women in the 21st match of the Women’s Big Bash League 2025 at Drummoyne Oval, Sydney, on November 23. Sydney Thunder, led by Phoebe Litchfield, are currently fifth on the points table with two wins and three losses after five games. They come into this match on a two-match winning streak, having defeated teams like Perth Scorchers and Brisbane Heat recently. Melbourne Renegades, the defending champions, sit second on the points table with three wins and two losses. They are coming off a six-wicket loss against Hobart Hurricanes in their last outing and will look to bounce back strongly.

In terms of recent head-to-head form, Melbourne Renegades have had the upper hand, winning four of their last six encounters against Sydney Thunder, including a defeat in the first matchup this season. The Renegades are favourites to continue their solid performance. Key players to watch include Thunder’s Litchfield and Heather Knight, and for Renegades, players like Courtney Webb, Sophie Molineux (captain), and Deandra Dottin.

ST-W vs MR-W, WBBL|11: Match details

• Date and Time: November 23; 04:30 am IST/ 11:00 pm GMT/ 10:00 am Local
• Venue: Drummoyne Oval, Sydney

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

Matches played: 19| Melbourne Renegades won: 09 | Sydney Thunder won: 10 | No result: 0

Drummoyne Oval Pitch Report

The Drummoyne Oval pitch is expected to offer a balanced contest between bat and ball, favouring bowlers more often than batters. The average first innings score in Women’s T20 matches here is around 135, indicating a relatively low-scoring game expected. Both pacers and spinners can be effective, so teams will need to strategize well. Quick runs during the powerplay will be crucial due to field restrictions.

Squads

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

Melbourne Renegades: Davina Perrin, Sophie Molineux, Courtney Webb, Alice Capsey, Deandra Dottin, Georgia Wareham, Naomi Stalenberg, Nicole Faltum (wk), Tess Flintoff, Sarah Coyte, Charis Bekker, Milly Illingworth, Sara Kennedy, Emma de Broughe, Issy Wong, Sophie Molineux

Also READ: WBBL|11: Tahlia Wilson shines with bat as Sydney Thunder beat Brisbane Heat by 41 runs

ST-W vs MR-W, WBBL|11: Today’s Match Prediction

Case 1:

• Melbourne Renegades 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 Thunder Women wins the toss and bowls first
• Melbourne Renegades Women’s powerplay score: 50-60
• Melbourne Renegades Women’s total score: 180-190

Match result: Team bowling first to win the game.

Also READ: Ashleigh Gardner sizzles as Sydney Sixers stun unbeaten Hobart Hurricanes with gritty win in WBBL|11

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

In the 3rd ODI of the West Indies tour of New Zealand held at Hamilton on November 22, 2025, New Zealand secured a commanding series whitewash against the West Indies. The match, played under lights at Seddon Park, saw the West Indies batting first and being restricted to a modest total of 161 runs, thanks mainly to an exceptional bowling performance by New Zealand pacer Matt Henry. New Zealand comfortably chased down the target with 4 wickets in hand and 117 balls to spare, completing a dominant 3-0 series victory over the visitors.

Matt Henry leads the charge with four wickets against West Indies on Day 3

Henry was the standout performer with the ball in the 3rd ODI, delivering a clinical spell of fast bowling that dismantled the fragile West Indies batting lineup. He bowled 9.2 overs, conceding only 43 runs while taking 4 crucial wickets. His wickets included key top and middle-order batters such as Ackeem Auguste, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, and the last man Jayden Seales. Henry’s accurate line and length, combined with perfect use of swing and pace, allowed him to claim his 13th four-wicket haul in ODIs, underscoring his status as one of New Zealand’s premier pace bowlers.

The West Indies batting never settled; the top order fell quickly under pressure from Henry and his pace bowling partners. Despite some resistance from Chase who scored 38 off 51 balls, the innings never gained momentum, and the team was bowled out within 36.2 overs. Alongside Henry’s four wickets, Mitchell Santner and Jacob Duffy took two wickets each, maintaining relentless pressure on the West Indies batters.

Also READ: Shai Hope’s ton in vain as Devon Conway’s 90 helps New Zealand beat West Indies in the thrilling 2nd ODI

Dominant series whitewash by New Zealand

With the target set at 162 runs for victory, New Zealand’s chase was composed and effective. Although the team lost early wickets, Mark Chapman led the charge with a well-crafted 64 runs off 63 balls. Michael Bracewell also contributed an unbeaten 40 runs as New Zealand reached the target comfortably in 30.3 overs.

The victory sealed a dominant 3-0 series whitewash over West Indies, confirming New Zealand’s superiority in all departments – batting, bowling, and fielding. The series highlighted New Zealand’s home dominance and their ability to exploit familiar conditions at Hamilton. It also emphasized the ongoing struggles of the West Indies team to adapt to New Zealand’s pace-friendly pitches.

🇳🇿 CLEAN SWEEP!

New Zealand wrap up the series with a dominant win in the final ODI.

West Indies outplayed across all three games – 3-0 secured! 🔥👏

Scorecard: https://t.co/YNlUISnu2a#Cricket #NZvWI #NewZealand #WestIndies #3rdODI pic.twitter.com/Cd3gL6H9xU

— CricketTimes.com (@CricketTimesHQ) November 22, 2025

Also READ: New Zealand star batter Daryl Mitchell overtakes Rohit Sharma to claim top spot in ICC ODI batting rankings

Sydney Thunder Women registered a convincing 41-run victory over Brisbane Heat Women in the 18th match of the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) 2025/26 season. Batting first, Thunder posted a strong total of 200/6 in their 20 overs, with Tahlia Wilson leading the charge with a brilliant 79 from 51 balls. In response, Brisbane could only manage 159 runs, falling short of the target in 19.1 overs. The win helped Thunder solidify their position in the upper half of the standings as Heat continued to struggle with consistency.

WBBL|11: Sydney Thunder’s powerful batting display under Tahlia Wilson

The Thunder posted a daunting total of 200/6, thanks to stellar contributions from Tahlia (79) and Heather Knight (41). After an early setback with Georgia Voll‘s dismissal, Wilson anchored the innings with a quick-fire knock that included 8 fours and 2 sixes. She was well-supported by Phoebe Litchfield (31) and Heather Knight, who played fluent knocks in the middle overs. Laura Harris’ brief stay at the crease ended with a duck, but the lower order, including Anika Learoyd (13*), kept the momentum going. Despite the late wickets, Thunder’s total proved to be too much for Heat. Their aggressive approach throughout the innings ensured they posted a competitive total, finishing with a run rate of 10.00 per over.

Also WATCH: Linsey Smith’s stunning grab sends Sophie Molineux packing as Hobart Hurricanes topple Melbourne Renegades in WBBL|11

WBBL|11: Brisbane Heat’s struggle and late resistance from Nadine de Klerk

Chasing 201, Brisbane faltered early in their pursuit, with Sydney’s bowlers putting pressure on their batting lineup. Heat’s top order was quickly dismantled, with Lauren Winfield-Hill (6) and Charli Knott (11) both dismissed cheaply. Jess Jonassen and Chinelle Henry were dismissed shortly after, leaving Heat at 45/4.

Georgia Redmayne’s early departure further added to the pressure, leaving them at 64/5. Nadine de Klerk (43) and Mikayla Wrigley (13) showed some resistance, but the required run rate continued to climb. Despite their best efforts, Heat fell short, with Sydney’s bowlers, particularly Em Arlott and Samantha Bates, tightening the noose in the latter stages. The Heat were eventually bowled out for 159 in 19.1 overs, with Thunder’s superior bowling and fielding ensuring they claimed a dominant win.

Back to back wins for Sydney Thunder ⚡#SydneyThunder pic.twitter.com/TkPwsiCFmJ

— WomenCricket.com (@WomenCricketHQ) November 21, 2025

Also READ: Meg Lanning’s ton and Kim Garth’s 4-fer power Melbourne Stars to emphatic win over Sydney Sixers in WBBL11

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

Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) made a bold move, orchestrating one of the most extensive squad overhauls in IPL history. The franchise released the one of highest number of players among all ten teams, including some big names like Venkatesh Iyer and Andre Russell.

IPL 2026: KKR’s major squad overhaul and  Venkatesh Iyer’s release

Iyer’s release is particularly noteworthy, as he had been bought for a hefty INR 23.75 crore during the previous mega auction and was appointed as the vice-captain. Despite his release, Iyer, who has accumulated 1,468 runs in 62 IPL matches, has made it clear that his bond with KKR remains strong, and he would love to return to the franchise.

This mass release by KKR is part of a larger strategy to clear up their purse for the mini-auction, which includes letting go of players such as Russell (INR 12 crore), Quinton de Kock (INR 3.6 crore), Moeen Ali (INR 2 crore), Anrich Nortje (INR 6.5 crore), Spencer Johnson (INR 2.8 crore) and Rahmanullah Gurbaz (INR 2 crore). Despite these high-profile releases, KKR now has the largest available purse heading into the auction, giving them ample opportunity to reshape the squad.

Also READ: Kolkata Knight Riders: Full List of KKR Retentions, Releases, Remaining Slots & Purse | IPL 2026 Auction

IPL 2026: Venkatesh Iyer reveals his aspirations and plans for IPL 2026 mini auction

Despite being one of the most expensive players released by KKR, Venkatesh Iyer remains emotionally tied to the franchise. Reflecting on his time with KKR during an interview with CricTracker, Iyer shared his heartfelt sentiment with CricTracker, emphasizing his desire to continue his journey with the team: “If I have to ask my heart, I would still want to play for KKR,” he confessed. He highlighted the personal and sentimental value of the franchise, especially since he won a championship with KKR. “I want to continue the legacy and bring more glory to KKR, as they’ve shown so much faith in me,” Iyer added.

However, despite his loyalty to KKR, Iyer made it clear that his primary goal is to continue playing in the IPL, no matter the team. He expressed, “For players like us, it’s the opportunity to play in the IPL. It doesn’t matter which team I play for. I will put my best foot forward.” He also emphasized that if he were to play for a different team, he would still bring his A-game, not just in terms of his batting and bowling, but also in leadership and providing guidance to the captain. “If not KKR, then anywhere else, I will look to give my best,” Iyer concluded, showcasing his professional approach and unwavering commitment to the game.

Also READ: KKR’s most expensive players at each IPL Auction: From Gautam Gambhir to Mitchell Starc

After fourteen long years of disappointment in Australia, England arrive for the Ashes 2025/26 with a rare blend of hunger, fearlessness and unfinished business. The first match of the five game Ashes 2025-26 will start from Friday, November 21 and will take pace at Optus Stadium in Perth.

England’s hunger and Australia’s quest for dominance

Their last triumph Down Under came in the distant glow of 2010–11, a memory that has grown heavier with every failed tour since. Under Ben Stokes’ bold leadership and Brendon McCullum’s fearless, tempo-driven ‘Bazball’ philosophy, England now believe they can shatter their drought on the toughest cricketing terrain in the world. Armed with pace, intent and renewed confidence, they enter the series opener looking not just to compete, but to rewrite history itself.

Australia walk into the 2025/26 Ashes with their own set of problems, yet remain an intimidating force, largely because they are built to thrive in crisis. Injuries to Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood have forced a sudden recalibration of their attack, but the leadership mantle lands in safe hands with Steve Smith, whose Ashes record continues to stand as one of cricket’s most formidable modern legacies. Smith’s ability to absorb pressure, control sessions and dictate tempo gives Australia a steadying presence during a transitional moment. Around him, the emergence of Scott Boland as a metronomic tormentor has been one of the most quietly impactful stories in recent Test cricket, his seam-perfect spells capable of flipping matches within overs.

With Australia’s batting core still robust and their home conditions notoriously unforgiving, the hosts enter the series with a mindset of restoring dominance, turning setbacks into fuel and trusting their depth to withstand England’s Bazball storm.

1. Channel Seven Commentators 

Channel Seven has assembled one of the most star-studded commentary line-ups for the Ashes 2025/26, led by the iconic duo of Ricky Ponting and former England great Stuart Broad, giving the broadcast a perfect blend of Australian sharpness and English insight. The panel is strengthened further by the arrival of David ‘Bumble’ Lloyd from the third Test onwards, adding humour and deep tactical understanding.

Returning heavyweights like Justin Langer, Matthew Hayden, Greg Blewett, Simon Katich, Trent Copeland, Aaron Finch and Damien Fleming ensure a rich mix of batting, bowling, and coaching intellect. Hosting responsibilities sit with Mel McLaughlin and James Brayshaw, supported by Tim Lane, Alison Mitchell and Alister Nicholson on commentary duties. Expert umpiring perspective is provided by five-time ICC Umpire of the Year Simon Taufel, while respected journalists Peter Lalor and Bharat Sundaresan complete the coverage with breaking news and in-depth reporting.

Channel Seven

Ricky Ponting, Stuart Broad, David Lloyd (from 3rd Test), Mel McLaughlin, James Brayshaw, Tim Lane, Alison Mitchell, Alister Nicholson, Justin Langer, Matthew Hayden, Greg Blewett, Simon Katich, Trent Copeland, Aaron Finch, Damien Fleming, Brad Hodge, Lisa Sthalekar, Callum Ferguson, Simon Taufel, Peter Lalor, Bharat Sundaresan

Also READ: AUS vs ENG, Ashes 2025-26: Broadcast, Live streaming details – When and where to watch in India, Australia, US, UK, Canada & other countries

2. Fox Cricket Commentators

Fox Cricket’s Ashes 2025/26 commentary team is headlined by Adam Gilchrist, Mark Waugh and Brett Lee, creating a powerhouse trio of Australian legends bringing elite-level insight and energy. They are joined by former England captain Michael Vaughan and broadcasting star Isa Guha, offering sharp English perspective. One of the biggest additions this year is David Warner, stepping into commentary for the first time, bringing recent-player understanding and trademark boldness. The team is rounded out by Mark Howard, Brad Haddin, Michael Hussey, Kerry O’Keeffe, Brendon Julian and Mel Jones, together forming a deep, versatile panel capable of delivering analysis, humour, and high-quality match breakdowns throughout the series.

Fox Cricket

Adam Gilchrist, Mark Waugh, Brett Lee, Michael Vaughan, Isa Guha, David Warner, Mark Howard, Brad Haddin, Michael Hussey, Kerry O’Keeffe, Brendon Julian, Mel Jones

3. TNT Sports (UK) Commentators 

For viewers in the UK, TNT Sports presents a polished and insightful Ashes commentary panel led by presenter Becky Ives. The coverage features a blend of celebrated English cricketers such as Sir Alastair Cook and Steven Finn, paired with the sharp analysis of Justin Langer, ensuring a balanced cross-national perspective. The commentary roster also includes experienced broadcasters Alastair Eykyn and Rob Hatch, while Ebony Rainford-Brent adds her analytical depth and clarity to the broadcast. Together, they offer UK fans a comprehensive, modern, and high-quality viewing experience tailored for the biggest Test rivalry in cricket.

Also READ: Ben Stokes vs Nathan Lyon: Head to Head record in Test cricket ahead of the Ashes 2025-26 Test series

India’s star all-rounder Hardik Pandya seems to be embracing a fresh chapter in his life — both personally and spiritually. After parting ways with his former wife, Natasa Stankovic, in 2024, Hardik has found love again in model and actress Maheika Sharma. The couple went public with their relationship in October 2025, marking it as an important new step for the cricketer, who has been candid about balancing his personal happiness with professional commitments.

Hardik Pandya begins a new chapter with Maheika Sharma

Recently, Hardik took to social media to share glimpses of his evolving life through a post titled “My big 3...”, referring to the three constants currently shaping his world — cricket, his son Agastya, and his partner Maheika. The photo carousel and short clips gave fans an inside look into his emotional and spiritual side, revealing how the cricketer remains grounded despite the highs and lows of fame.

Among the most talked-about moments was a video of Hardik performing a traditional hawan (ritual fire ceremony) at his residence. Seated beside him was Maheika, both dressed in matching cream and gold ethnic wear, symbolizing harmony and shared belief. The duo was seen offering prayers with folded hands as a priest chanted mantras. Fans applauded Hardik for honoring Indian traditions while blending his personal and public identity so gracefully. The video soon went viral, receiving thousands of likes and messages from followers who praised his humility and spiritual devotion.

The post also included snippets from his gym workouts, bonding sessions with Agastya, and cozy moments with Maheika. In one heartwarming clip, Hardik kissed her on the forehead, a rare public display of affection from the usually reserved cricketer.

Also READ: Hardik Pandya’s phone wallpaper featuring girlfriend Mahieka Sharma goes viral

Hardik and Maheika growing bond

Before officially confirming their relationship, Hardik and Maheika’s chemistry had already become a subject of speculation for months. Their first public appearance together came just before Hardik’s 32nd birthday, when paparazzi captured them at the airport in coordinated outfits, reportedly en route to a romantic getaway in the Maldives. Those close to the couple describe their relationship as “supportive and grounded,” with both sharing a passion for fitness, travel, and social causes.

Maheika, known for her work in modeling and independent cinema, has appeared in various brand campaigns for Tanishq, Vivo, and Uniqlo. With a strong following on social media, she often promotes mental health awareness and sustainable fashion, traits that align with Hardik’s evolving lifestyle off the field.

Even after his separation from Natasa, Hardik continues to co-parent his son Agastya, ensuring that his personal transformation does not disrupt the stability of his family. Friends and fans believe this mature balance between responsibility and renewal reflects his growth as both a person and a sports icon.

As Hardik prepares for India’s upcoming cricket season, his renewed focus and emotional clarity seem to be guiding him toward a positive direction. From leading by example on the pitch to finding peace off it, Hardik’s journey stands as a reminder that new beginnings can be both spiritual and deeply meaningful.

Also READ: Jasmin Walia’s reaction goes viral amid Hardik Pandya-Mahieka Sharma romance

Bangladesh women’s cricket captain Nigar Sultana Joty has vehemently denied serious allegations of physically assaulting and misbehaving with junior players in the national team. The controversy erupted after pacer Jahanara Alam, currently based in Australia, made the claims in a recent media interview, alleging junior players had reached out to her for help. Responding to the accusations, Nigar Sultana dismissed them as baseless and questioned the timing of the complaints surfacing now, years after Jahanara left the team.

Nigar Sultan denies assault and references India’s World Cup winning skipper Harmanpreet Kaur

Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana  firmly rejected the severe accusations made by pacer Jahanara, who alleged Nigar Sultana had misbehaved with and hit younger players, even claiming a junior was slapped during a prior tour. Joty expressed disbelief at the claims, rhetorically questioning why she would resort to such physical violence against her teammates. She made a pointed and controversial reference to a high-profile incident involving the Indian captain to illustrate the absurdity of the claims made against her.

Nigar Sultana was quoted as saying by the NDTV Sports: “Why would I hit anyone? I mean, why would I strike the stumps with my bat? Am I Harmanpreet, that I would go around hitting the stumps like that? Why would I do it?” This remark directly referenced Harmanpreet Kaur’s infamous outburst during the 2023 tour of Bangladesh, when the Indian captain had smashed the stumps in anger after being given out leg-before. Sultana conceded that frustration might lead to isolated actions, but only in a private context.

Nigar Sultana continued: “In my personal space, if I’m cooking or something, I might bang my bat around, I might hit my helmet that’s my own business.” She further challenged the basis of the accusation, questioning the need for physical confrontation: “But why would I do something like that to someone else? Why would I get physical? Just because someone says so? You can ask the other players or anyone else whether I’ve ever done anything like that,” appealing to the wider squad for verification.

Also READ: BCB responds after Jahanara Alam accuses former selector of sexual harassment

Bangladesh captain questions Jahanara Alam’s credibility and management oversight

Nigar Sultana not only denied the allegations but also directly questioned the credibility and motives behind Jahanara Alam’s claims, especially given Alam’s prolonged absence from the team setup.

Joty stated her character had been unfairly maligned by the description given to the public and refuted the specific claim Jahanara made, detailing what she had heard: “The way I’ve been described in front of everyone. I’m not that kind of girl at all. First, I heard that Jahanara apu has made an allegation about me, saying that someone called her in Australia and said, ‘Please save us, Jyoti apu is beating us and finishing us off.” The captain strongly countered the logic of junior players contacting a former player living abroad instead of the current team hierarchy.

Joty pointed out that Alam “hasn’t been here for six or seven years and has gone off to Australia,” making her an unlikely first contact for current players. She then challenged the idea that she could act unilaterally if the claims were true, questioning the role of the support staff and BCB officials. Joty asked: “What I’m trying to say is someone who hasn’t been here for six or seven years and has gone off to Australia if I really beat someone or harmed someone in any way, is there no team management, no manager, no coaching staff? Am I the ultimate authority then?” She implied that if such a serious incident had occurred, the players would have immediately reported it to board officials or team management instead of phoning someone living abroad.

Also READ: Harmanpreet Kaur picks her favourite men’s cricketer between MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli

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

Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) underwent a significant squad overhaul ahead of IPL 2026 auction as part of owner Kavya Maran’s vision to rebuild the team for sustained success. The retention choices emphasize restructuring while focusing on core strengths and strategic auction flexibility.

SRH retain core players for IPL 2026

SRH retained a compact but effective core including skipper Pat Cummins, accomplished Indian all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, T20 specialist Harshal Patel and Sri Lankan pace sensation Eshan Malinga. These retentions provide leadership, skill balance and a strong bowling attack foundation, crucial for SRH’s competitive aspirations.

The franchise made some bold calls by releasing seasoned campaigners including Adam Zampa, Mohammed Shami (traded to Lucknow Super Giants), and South Africa all-rounder Wiaan Mulder. This move aimed to free up a sizeable purse and reallocate resources towards younger, high-potential talent. Additionally, the decision to trade Shami reflects a long-term team planning approach, potentially increasing auction firepower.

SRH’s plan for IPL 2026 auction

SRH enters the IPL 2026 auction with a moderate purse balance, offering them enough flexibility to bid aggressively for promising domestic talent and suitable overseas options. Their goal is to balance experience and youth, fixing gaps identified in IPL 2025 through strategic auction purchases.

Also READ: IPL 2026 Retentions – Kavya Maran’s SRH react after trading Mohammed Shami to Lucknow Super Giants

Sunrisers Hyderabad: Retention, Release, Trade and Purse

Players released: Abhinav Manohar, Atharva Taide, Sachin Baby, Wiaan Mulder, Simarjeet Singh, Rahul Chahar, Adam Zampa, Mohammed Shami (traded to Lucknow Super Giants)

Players retained: Pat Cummins (captain), Abhishek Sharma, Heinrich Klaasen (wicket-keeper), Travis Head, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ishan Kishan (wicket-keeper), Harshal Patel, Jaydev Unadkat, Aniket Verma, Kamindu Mendis, Eshan Malinga, Brydon Carse, Harsh Dubey, Smaran Ravichandran, Zeeshan Ansari

Purse remaining: INR 25.5 cr

Slots remaining: 10 (2 overseas)

Also READ: Kolkata Knight Riders: Full List of KKR Retentions, Releases, Remaining Slots & Purse | IPL 2026 Auction