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  • Women’s Ashes 2025: England’s playing XI for the Pink Ball Test against Australia – Predicted

    Women’s Ashes 2025: England’s playing XI for the Pink Ball Test against Australia – Predicted

    With the ODI and T20I series of the Women’s Ashes 2025 concluded, all eyes now turn to the highly anticipated Day-Night Test match between Australia and England. Set to be played at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground, the match will begin on Thursday, January 30. Despite a challenging series so far, England will look to make a statement in the only Test of the series.

    An opportunity for redemption for England’s team

    England enter the Test after a disappointing white-ball series. The third and final T20I saw England suffer a comprehensive 72-run loss to Australia at the Adelaide Oval, facing a 0-3 loss in the T20I series. Coupled with their earlier ODI series defeat by the same margin, England now trail 0-12 in the points tally. Although the Ashes have already been decided, the Test match presents a crucial opportunity for England to salvage some pride and build momentum for the future.

    Here is England’s predicted playing XI for the Day-Night Test against Australia

    1. Maia Bouchier 

    • Position: Opener
    • Strength: Known for her technical precision, Bouchier provides stability at the top of the order. Her ability to anchor the innings will be crucial for setting a strong foundation against a formidable Australian bowling attack.

    2. Tammy Beaumont

    • Position: Opener
    • Strength: Beaumont’s dynamic approach complements Bouchier’s stability. Renowned for her aggressive stroke play, she has the potential to accelerate the scoring rate and put pressure on the Australian bowlers early in the innings.

    3. Nat Sciver-Brunt

    • Position: Batting All-Rounder
    • Strength: Sciver-Brunt’s versatility makes her a key player. Her ability to stabilize the middle order with the bat and deliver crucial breakthroughs with her medium-fast bowling will be pivotal to England’s performance.

    Also READ: Here’s list of ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year winners ft. Amelia Kerr

    4. Heather Knight (c)

    • Position: Middle-Order Batter and Captain
    • Strength: As the captain, Knight’s leadership will be central to England’s strategy. Her all-round skills and experience under pressure make her a vital cog in both the batting and bowling departments.

    5. Danni Wyatt-Hodge

    • Position: Middle-Order Batter
    • Strength: Wyatt-Hodge brings a fearless approach to the middle order. Her power-hitting capabilities and ability to shift momentum in England’s favor will be critical during crucial phases of the game.

    6. Amy Jones

    • Position: Wicketkeeper Batter
    • Strength: Jones combines sharp reflexes behind the stumps with explosive batting skills. Her ability to finish innings with a flourish adds depth to England’s line-up.

    7. Sophia Dunkley

    • Position: Middle-Order Batter
    • Strength: Dunkley’s adaptability and calmness under pressure make her a valuable asset. Her ability to rotate strike and play impactful innings in various situations enhances England’s batting flexibility.

    8. Kate Cross

    • Position: Medium-Fast Bowler
    • Strength: Cross is a key component of England’s bowling attack, known for exploiting seam-friendly conditions. Her knack for breaking partnerships and maintaining pressure will be crucial in the Day-Night Test.

    9. Charlie Dean

    • Position: Off-Spin Bowler
    • Strength: Dean’s off-spin bowling adds a vital dimension to England’s attack. Her ability to vary flight and pace can unsettle batters, while her lower-order batting offers additional depth.

    10. Lauren Bell

    • Position: Medium-Fast Bowler
    • Strength: Bell’s ability to generate movement and take key wickets makes her an important weapon for England. Her role in breaking partnerships will be critical in maintaining control during the match.

    11. Sophie Ecclestone

    • Position: Spin Bowler
    • Strength: Ecclestone’s accuracy and skill in controlling the flow of runs make her one of the best spinners in women’s cricket. On the spin-friendly Melbourne surface, she will be expected to lead England’s bowling efforts.

    Also READ: Hayley Matthews names greatest Man and Woman cricketers of the 21st century

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

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  • AUS vs IND: Indian captain Rohit Sharma comes under fire for shifting blame on youngsters following MCG Test loss

    AUS vs IND: Indian captain Rohit Sharma comes under fire for shifting blame on youngsters following MCG Test loss

    In the aftermath of India‘s disappointing 184-run defeat to Australia in the Melbourne Test, captain Rohit Sharma has found himself at the center of a storm of criticism. His comments during the post-match press conference, particularly regarding the performance of younger players, have sparked outrage among fans and cricket analysts alike. As India trail 1-2 in the five-match Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, the pressure is mounting on Rohit to lead both on and off the field.

    The weight of leadership on Rohit Sharma

    Rohit’s remarks in the press conference after the MCG Test, suggesting that the young players “will learn as they keep playing,” have been interpreted by many as an attempt to deflect responsibility from himself and his senior teammates.

    “We got plenty of chances to win or even draw the game. But there are many guys who scored runs, but could have played a big innings. The guys are new and they will learn as they keep playing,” Rohit stated, emphasizing that new players need to convert their starts into significant scores

    This statement has not only frustrated fans but has also drawn sharp criticism from former players who believe that Rohit should take accountability for the team’s failures.

    Also READ: Top 5 most wickets by an Indian bowler in a calendar year ft. Jasprit Bumrah

    The fallout from Melbourne

    The loss at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was not just another defeat; it marked a significant setback for India, who were aiming for a historic hat-trick of Test series victories on Australian soil. After bowling Australia out in their second innings, India had a golden opportunity to chase down a target of 340 runs. However, they crumbled under pressure, losing their last seven wickets for just 34 runs. Rohit admitted that his team failed to capitalize on favourable conditions, calling it “mentally disturbing” and expressing disappointment over their inability to fight back.

    Criticism from all corners

    The backlash against Rohit has been swift and severe. Former cricketer Irfan Pathan pointed out that Rohit’s current form is underwhelming, suggesting that had he not been captain, he might not even be in the playing XI.

    “If we talk about reality, considering how he is struggling with the bat, there might not have been a place for him in the playing XI. But because he is the captain, and you want to win the next match to draw the series, he stays in the team,” Pathan said on a Star Sports’ post match show.

    Fans took to social media to voice their discontent, with many accusing him of “throwing youngsters under the bus” instead of taking responsibility for his own batting failures and leadership decisions. This sentiment was echoed by cricket pundits who argue that as captain, Rohit should shoulder more blame rather than shifting it onto less experienced players.

    Rishabh Pant’s struggles with form and temperament

    Rohit also addressed Rishabh Pant‘s performance, particularly criticizing his rash shot selection during crucial moments. Pant’s dismissal in both innings raised eyebrows, leading Rohit to state that Pant must understand what is required of him in high-pressure situations. While acknowledging Pant’s potential, Rohit emphasized that it is essential for him to adapt his game according to the match context.

    “It [Pant’s dismissal] just happened, there hasn’t been any discussion about today. Obviously we’ve lost the game, everybody is disappointed about how things panned out … But again, look, Rishabh Pant obviously he needs to understand what is required from himself. More than any one of us telling him, it’s about him understanding and figuring out what’s the right way to go about it. In the past, he has given us lot of success doing what he does. As a captain, there’s a kind of mixed reaction to that,” Indian skipper concluded.

    With this, India will now prepare for the final Test in Sydney on January 3, the focus will be on how Rohit can rally his team and address these criticisms head-on. With Australia aiming to seal their spot in the World Test Championship final with a victory, India must regroup and find a way to level the series. The upcoming match will not only test Rohit’s leadership but also determine whether he can inspire confidence in his young squad amid mounting pressure.

    Also READ: 3 key reasons behind Team India’s loss against Australia in the Boxing Day Test

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  • WATCH: Mohammed Siraj’s bail-switching ritual brings good fortune for Jasprit Bumrah on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

    WATCH: Mohammed Siraj’s bail-switching ritual brings good fortune for Jasprit Bumrah on Day 1 of the AUS vs IND 4th Test

    Cricket has always been a sport rich in tradition and superstition, and Day 1 of the fourth Test between Australia and India at the Melbourne Cricket Ground was no exception. An intriguing moment unfolded when Indian pacer Mohammed Siraj flipped the bails off the stumps while Australian batter Marnus Labuschagne was on strike, a ritual believed by some in the cricketing world to bring good luck and wickets for bowlers.

    Mohammed Siraj’s superstition: Bail-switching at play

    In the 43rd over of the Australian innings, Siraj approached the stumps and deliberately switched the bails, an act that caught the attention of onlookers. Labuschagne, unfazed, simply walked away. This was not the first time such an incident had occurred between the two players. A similar moment at the Gabba saw Labuschagne reversing the change and subsequently losing his wicket shortly after. Siraj even playfully informed Labuschagne about his actions, adding an air of levity to the tense match. However, on this occasion, Siraj’s ritual did not immediately bear fruit.

    While Siraj’s superstition didn’t work for him, it appeared to pave the way for teammate Jasprit Bumrah. In the 45th over, Bumrah dismissed Usman Khawaja in a dramatic turn of events. Khawaja, who was well-set on 57 runs off 121 balls, attempted a pull shot against a short-of-length delivery but mistimed it. The ball found its way to KL Rahul at short mid-wicket, leaving Khawaja walking back with a rueful smile. This breakthrough was crucial for India as Bumrah continued to demonstrate his prowess as a match-winner.

    Here is the video:

    Also READ: WATCH: Steve Smith gets hit in the groin area by Akash Deep; Australian star reacts comically

    Labuschagne, who had looked solid at the crease with a composed 72 off 145 balls, eventually fell in the 66th over. Washington Sundar, introduced into the attack, enticed the batter into an expansive shot. Labuschagne, failing to get to the pitch of the ball, mistimed his shot and was caught by Indian skipper Virat Kohli at mid-off. This dismissal, coming right after the drinks break, was a significant moment for the Indian side as they sought to regain control.

    Australia ends Day 1 strong but not unscathed

    At stumps, Australia had posted a formidable 311 runs for the loss of six wickets. Steven Smith remained unbeaten on 68, showcasing his class with five boundaries and a six. Bumrah emerged as the standout performer for India, claiming three wickets and providing critical breakthroughs. While the day belonged largely to Australia, India’s disciplined bowling ensured the game remained finely poised. As both teams prepare for Day 2, the focus will be on whether India’s bowlers can capitalize on the momentum or if Australia’s lower order will stretch their advantage.

    Also WATCH: Ricky Ponting’s double standards criticizing Virat Kohli while ignoring his own past in the 4th Test | AUS vs IND



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  • WATCH: Commentators go gaga over Sam Konstas’ stunning reverse scoop six off Jasprit Bumrah in AUS vs IND 4th Test

    WATCH: Commentators go gaga over Sam Konstas’ stunning reverse scoop six off Jasprit Bumrah in AUS vs IND 4th Test

    In a thrilling display of youthful exuberance, 19-year-old Australia batter Sam Konstas made headlines during his Test debut at the Boxing Day Test against India. Facing the formidable Jasprit Bumrah, Konstas showcased a bold T20-style approach in his blistering knock of 60 runs that left commentators and fans alike in awe.

    The stage was set at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) as Konstas walked out to open the innings. The young debutant faced an uphill battle against Bumrah, who has long been regarded as one of the best fast bowlers in the world. After a cautious start, where he struggled to connect with two attempted ramp shots, Konstas finally found his rhythm in the seventh over. He executed a brilliant reverse ramp shot over the wicketkeeper’s head for four runs, followed by an audacious six that sent shockwaves through the stadium.

    Commentators were left speechless by his audacity. Mark Waugh exclaimed, “I cannot believe this,” while Ravi Shastri remarked on how Konstas had effectively unsettled Bumrah, a strategy that seemed to pay off handsomely. “He has done well to unsettle Bumrah and so far it has worked for Konstas”, Shastri said.

    The crowd erupted in cheers as Konstas continued to attack, finishing the over with two boundaries and a total of 16 runs – Bumrah’s highest concession in recent memory.

    Also WATCH: Virat Kohli and Sam Konstas exchanged heated words after shoulder bump on Day 1 of the Melbourne Test

    Here’s the video:

    A historic moment for Konstas

    Konstas’ achievement was not just about runs; it was historic in nature. By hitting Bumrah for a six, he became the first batter since Cameron Green in 2021 to achieve this feat against the Indian pacer, who had gone an astonishing 4483 deliveries without conceding a six in Test matches. This remarkable statistic underscores the significance of Konstas’ performance and positions him as a player to watch in future matches.

    The debutant’s fearless approach has drawn comparisons to the “Bazball” style of cricket popularized by England under coach Brendon McCullum. Waugh noted that Konstas had clearly formulated a plan against Bumrah, despite initially keeping it under wraps.

    The reactions from seasoned commentators were telling of the impact Konstas made with the bat. Adam Gilchrist praised his ability to take on one of the world’s best bowlers with such confidence at such a young age.

    “He had said that he has got a plan against Jasprit Bumrah, but didn’t reveal it. This might be his way of taking down Bumrah,” Gilchrist concluded. The consensus among experts was clear: Konstas’ performance was not merely an anomaly but rather indicative of a new generation of cricketers who are unafraid to challenge traditional norms.

    Also READ: AUS vs IND: Here’s why Shubman Gill not playing Boxing Day Test match against Australia



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  • AUS vs PAK: Pat Cummins hits out at Mohammad Hafeez’s comments after MCG Test

    AUS vs PAK: Pat Cummins hits out at Mohammad Hafeez’s comments after MCG Test

    In response to Pakistan Team Director Mohammad Hafeez‘s assertion that his team was superior despite losing the second Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Australian captain Pat Cummins offered his perspective.

    Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc’s bowling brilliance

    When Pakistan found themselves at 219/5, requiring 98 runs for a series-levelling victory, the game appeared to be on the brink of a cliffhanger. However, Cummins, and Mitchell Starc delivered a remarkable fast bowling spell, leading the hosts to a second consecutive triumph with a convincing 79-run victory.

    Mohammad Hafeez’s assertion

    Following Australia’s unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match Test series against Pakistan, Hafeez, the team’s Director of Cricket, acknowledged that his side made a few too many mistakes. Nevertheless, he also asserted that, over the four days at the MCG, they proved to be the superior team.

    “We played better cricket as a team. I’m proud of that. The way the team had the courage to attack this game in the best possible way. If I sum up the game, the Pakistan team played better than the other team in general. Our batting intent was better, and while bowling, we were hitting the right areas. Yes, we made some mistakes that cost us the game but as a team I believe that there were a lot of positives, enough to win the game but unfortunately at the end we didn’t win the game,” Hafeez was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

    Also READ: Top 5 leading run-scorers in Test cricket in the year 2023

    Cummins’ fitting response

    Hafeez received criticism for his controversial statement, prompting a reporter to inquire about it with Cummins later. The reporter sought Cummins’ response to Hafeez’s assertion, to which the Australian speedster commented that while the visitors performed well at the MCG, he is ultimately pleased with the victory, and others’ opinions about the game don’t affect him.

    “Cool. Yeah, they played well, but glad we got the win. Doesn’t really matter, does it? [if they were the better team]. It matters who wins at the end,” Cummins said.

    As the last Test of the series approaches in Sydney from January 3-7, Pakistan will be aiming to prevent a whitewash.

    Also READ: Harsha Bhogle reveals Test team of the year 2023; no place for Pat Cummins



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  • AUS vs PAK 2023, 2nd Test: MCG Pitch Report, Melbourne Weather Forecast, Test Stats & Records | Australia vs Pakistan

    AUS vs PAK 2023, 2nd Test: MCG Pitch Report, Melbourne Weather Forecast, Test Stats & Records | Australia vs Pakistan

    The cricketing world is eagerly awaiting the commencement of second Test between Australia and Pakistan, the next chapter in the three-match series. Scheduled to kick off on December 26 at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), the match promises high-stakes cricketing action on the celebrated Boxing Day.

    As the teams gear up for the pivotal clash, Australia have decided to maintain consistency in their playing eleven. The Australian brigade, which emerged victorious in the first Test at Perth, will enter the field in the upcoming battle at the MCG. This strategic decision reflects the team management’s confidence in the players’ performance and synergy.

    On the other hand, Pakistan have named a 12-man for the Boxing Day Test. Their final eleven will be disclosed only at the toss, injecting an element of anticipation and strategy into captain Shan Masood‘s approach. The flexibility in Pakistan’ squad composition indicates a thoughtful approach, keeping in mind the conditions and challenges posed by the MCG pitch.

    Tests stats and records at the MCG:

    • Total matches: 116
    • Matches won batting first: 56
    • Matches won batting second: 42
    • Average 1st innings scores: 307
    • Average 2nd innings scores: 313
    • Average 3rd innings scores: 252
    • Average 4th innings scores: 171
    • Highest total recorded: 628/8 (142 Ov) by Australia vs Pakistan
    • Lowest total recorded: 36/10 (23.2 Ov) by South Africa vs Australia

    MCG Pitch Report:

    The pitch at the MCG is renowned for being among the most competitive surfaces globally. It provides an optimal equilibrium between bat and ball, granting bowlers assistance in the initial stages with consistent and genuine bounce. As the pitch ages, batsmen can confidently unleash their strokes. Nevertheless, spinners typically find limited assistance at this venue.

    Captain winning the toss is likely to field first.

    Also READ: West Indies legend Michael Holding slams ICC over their stance on Usman Khawaja

    Melbourne Weather Forecast:

    The likelihood of rain persists during the initial three days of the second Test. However, conditions are anticipated to ameliorate on the 4th and 5th day, with temperature ranging between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius.

    Australia vs Pakistan 2nd Test, Playing XI:

    Australia: David Warner, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head, Mitch Marsh, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins (c), Nathan Lyon, Josh Hazlewood

    Pakistan (Probable): Imam-Ul-Haq, Abdullah Shafique, Shan Masood (c), Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Shaheen Afridi, Mir Hamza, Aamir Jamal, Sajid Khan

    Also READ: Top 5 ODI wicket-takers in the year 2023

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