Women’s World Cup, Nonkululeko Mlaba claims 4-fer versus NZ: Stats

**Women’s World Cup: Nonkululeko Mlaba Claims Four-Wicket Haul Against New Zealand**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Oct 06, 2025 | 6:42 pm*

South African spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba delivered a match-winning performance in a crucial ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 encounter against New Zealand at Indore.

Mlaba showcased her spin bowling prowess by taking 4 wickets for 40 runs from her full quota of 10 overs. New Zealand seemed to be cruising at 187/3 in the 38th over, buoyed by a strong 86-run partnership. However, Mlaba struck decisively to break the momentum and triggered a stunning collapse.

Coming back to bowl in the 39th over, Mlaba immediately dismissed the well-set Brooke Halliday, who had made 45 runs. The wicket fell on the very first ball of the over when Halliday mistimed a slog sweep.

Mlaba continued her dominance by picking up the wickets of Maddy Green and half-centurion Sophie Devine in quick succession. Green was undone by a reverse sweep, while Devine was dismissed soon after. She wrapped up her spell by claiming the wicket of Lea Tahuhu, leaving New Zealand bowled out for 231.

This four-wicket haul was Mlaba’s second such performance in Women’s One Day Internationals (WODIs). With this effort, she has now amassed 42 wickets in 39 WODIs, maintaining an average of 34.85 and an economy rate of 4.80.

Specifically against New Zealand, Mlaba has been particularly effective, claiming 9 wickets in 4 matches at an impressive average of 17.44 and an economy rate of 4.02.

Playing only her second match in the Women’s World Cup, Mlaba’s impactful bowling has given South Africa a significant boost as she opens her wicket tally in this prestigious tournament.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/women-s-world-cup-nonkululeko-mlaba-floors-new-zealand-with-4-fer/story

Rishabh Pant set for Ranji Trophy return in late October

**Rishabh Pant Set for Ranji Trophy Return in Late October**

*By Rajdeep Saha | October 6, 2025, 6:59 PM*

Indian cricketer Rishabh Pant is on the verge of making a comeback to competitive cricket through the Ranji Trophy. According to The Times of India, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is set to evaluate his recovery status this week, with a potential clearance expected by October 10. If approved, Pant could be back playing for Delhi starting October 25.

**Assessment and Clearance**

A BCCI source revealed, “As of now, there is a likelihood he could be cleared by October 10. An assessment is due this week. It has been a long recovery for him. The BCCI medical team doesn’t want to take any chances.” Pant’s return will be contingent upon his fitness level and official approval from the BCCI.

**Recovery Progress and Injury Details**

Pant has been sidelined since July due to a fractured foot sustained during the fourth Test against England. Initially, the injury was expected to heal within six weeks; however, complications arose when the metatarsal bone in his right foot broke again under pressure as he attempted to bat the very next day after the injury.

Despite these setbacks, Pant has made significant strides in his recovery over the past 20 days, giving hope for his return to the field soon.

**Impact on Matches and Upcoming Schedule**

Pant has missed the ongoing two-Test series against the West Indies as well as the forthcoming white-ball tour of Australia. Nevertheless, depending on the clearance from the Center of Excellence (CoE) and his preparedness, he could participate in two Ranji Trophy matches before November 5.

This potential return is particularly important as India prepares for a home Test series against South Africa starting November 14.

**Pant’s Performance Against England**

In the recently concluded Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy 2025, Pant delivered an impressive performance across four Test matches. In seven innings, he amassed 479 runs at an average of 68.42, including two centuries and three half-centuries. Additionally, he showcased his aggressive batting by hitting 17 sixes throughout the series.

Pant’s imminent return is eagerly awaited by fans and selectors alike, as he remains a key player for Indian cricket’s future.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/rishabh-pant-could-make-return-to-cricket-soon-details-here/story

Women’s World Cup: Sophie Devine slams her 6th fifty-plus score

Veteran New Zealand star Sophie Devine delivered a stellar performance against South Africa in a crucial ICC Women’s World Cup encounter.

The match took place in Indore on Monday, where Devine’s brilliance played a key role for her team.

Her contribution was instrumental in shaping the outcome of this important World Cup fixture.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/sophie-devine-slams-85-versus-sa-in-women-s-world-cup/story

Has Mohammed Shami played his last game for Team India?

**Has Mohammed Shami Played His Last Game for Team India?**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Oct 05, 2025, 10:14 AM*

Indian cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has shared his thoughts on the future of fast bowler Mohammed Shami following the latter’s exclusion from India’s white-ball squads for the upcoming series against Australia.

### The Injury Struggle and Its Impact

Mohammed Shami, 35, has been battling injuries since the 2023 ODI World Cup. Despite overcoming a year-long fitness struggle, he has been unable to regain his peak form. Gavaskar noted that for a fast bowler like Shami, recovering from such injuries is especially challenging.

“In Mohammed Shami’s case, it’ll be a real uphill climb for him. It’s going to be very, very tough,” Gavaskar told *India Today*. He also acknowledged Shami’s valuable contribution to Indian cricket over the years.

Shami last represented India in the Champions Trophy earlier this year but has since found it hard to secure a spot in the national team.

### Declining Form and Limited Opportunities

The 2025 IPL season was disappointing for Shami as he struggled to make an impact with Sunrisers Hyderabad. Consequently, he was left out of key tours and tournaments, including the England tour, the T20 Asia Cup 2025, and the West Indies Test series.

His domestic performances have also been underwhelming, notably in the Duleep Trophy where he picked up only one wicket in 34 overs while representing East Zone.

### Selectors’ Long-Term Vision

In recent squad announcements, India’s selection committee has made significant changes ahead of the Australia tour. Shami, along with Ravindra Jadeja, has been omitted to make room for younger talents like Prasidh Krishna and Washington Sundar.

This move signals a clear long-term strategy focusing on building a core team for the 2027 World Cup. Shami’s exclusion appears to be part of this broader vision to develop fresh talent and invest in the future.

### A Look Back at Shami’s Career

Mohammed Shami made his international debut in 2013 and quickly established himself as a vital member of the Indian bowling attack across all formats.

– **ODIs:** 64 matches, 116 wickets at an average of 25.71
– **Tests:** 64 matches, 229 wickets at an average of 27.71, including six five-wicket hauls
– **T20Is:** 27 wickets at an average of 28

Shami’s experience and skill have been invaluable to Team India, but with continuing fitness concerns and emerging young talent, his international future remains uncertain.

As India gears up for future challenges, the story of Mohammed Shami’s international career may be approaching its final chapter. Fans and experts alike await further developments as the team evolves towards the 2027 World Cup.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/has-mohammed-shami-s-india-career-ended/story

Shreyas Iyer becomes India’s new vice-captain in ODIs: Key stats

**Shreyas Iyer Becomes India’s New Vice-Captain in ODIs: Key Stats**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | October 4, 2025*

In a significant leadership reshuffle, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Shubman Gill as the new captain of the Indian ODI team, taking over from Rohit Sharma. Alongside this change, Shreyas Iyer has been named the vice-captain for the ODI format, chosen ahead of contenders like KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah.

### Iyer’s Role in the Leadership Group

Shreyas Iyer’s appointment as vice-captain formally inducts him into the leadership group for India’s white-ball cricket. Although he had previously served as a stand-in leader, this new role entrusts him with a key responsibility to assist Shubman Gill in leading the team during future 50-over matches. Iyer’s maiden leadership assignment in an official capacity will begin with the upcoming ODI series against Australia, starting on October 19.

### Recent Performances Boost Iyer’s Case

Iyer’s recent form, particularly in India’s successful Champions Trophy campaign earlier this year, significantly strengthened his claim for the vice-captaincy. He amassed 243 runs in five matches at an impressive average of 48.60, including two fifties. Although his strike rate of 79.41 was on the lower side, it reflected the challenging batting conditions in Dubai, where matches saw modest totals. Notably, Iyer was the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, behind New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra who scored 263 runs.

### Stellar Numbers in ODIs

This year, Iyer has been in exceptional form across eight ODI matches, accumulating 424 runs at an average of 53.00, with four half-centuries. Overall, in his ODI career spanning 70 games, he has scored 2,845 runs at an average of 48.22 and a strike rate of 100. His tally includes five centuries and 22 fifties, underscoring his consistency and class in the format.

### Impressive Record in ICC ODI Events

Iyer’s performance on the big stage has been remarkable. In the 2023 Cricket World Cup, he scored 530 runs, finishing as the tournament’s seventh-highest run-scorer with an average of 66.25 and a strike rate of 113.24. He became the first middle-order batsman to cross 500 runs in a single World Cup edition. Adding his Champions Trophy 2025 exploits, Iyer has accumulated 773 runs in 16 ICC ODI matches, averaging 59.46, including five fifties and two centuries.

### IPL 2025 Heroics

Apart from his international performances, Iyer led Punjab Kings to the IPL 2025 final as captain. He enjoyed a stellar season with the bat, scoring 604 runs at an average of 50.33. His campaign featured six half-centuries and a remarkable strike rate of 175.07. Iyer also smashed 39 sixes during the season—the highest by any captain in a single IPL edition—highlighting his aggressive yet consistent batting style.

With his impressive track record and leadership qualities, Shreyas Iyer now embarks on a new chapter as India’s ODI vice-captain, poised to play a pivotal role alongside Shubman Gill in shaping the future of Indian white-ball cricket.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/shreyas-iyer-becomes-new-vice-captain-of-india-s-odi-team/story

Shreyas Iyer becomes India’s new vice-captain in ODIs: Key stats

**Shreyas Iyer Becomes India’s New Vice-Captain in ODIs: Key Stats**

*By Gaurav Tripathi | Oct 04, 2025, 03:25 PM*

In a significant leadership reshuffle, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Shubman Gill as the new captain of the Indian ODI team, replacing Rohit Sharma. Alongside this change, Shreyas Iyer has been named the vice-captain for One Day Internationals, selected ahead of prominent players like KL Rahul and Jasprit Bumrah.

### Shreyas Iyer’s Role in the Leadership Group

Iyer’s elevation to vice-captain marks his formal induction into the leadership group for India’s white-ball cricket. While he had previously been part of this elite group on a stand-in basis, his new appointment signals the trust placed in him by the team management. With Gill at the helm, Iyer will play a crucial role in supporting the captain in future 50-over matches.

The upcoming ODI series against Australia, starting October 19, will mark Iyer’s first major leadership assignment representing India.

### Recent Performances Bolstering Iyer’s Case

Iyer’s recent form, especially during India’s victorious Champions Trophy campaign earlier this year, played a pivotal role in boosting his claim for the vice-captaincy. He accumulated 243 runs in five matches at an average of 48.60, including two half-centuries. Although his strike rate (79.41) was on the lower side, conditions in Dubai were challenging, with no match seeing scores above 270.

Notably, he was the second-highest run-scorer in the tournament, just behind New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra (263 runs).

### Impressive ODI Statistics

The Mumbai-born batsman has enjoyed a stellar run in ODIs this year, scoring 424 runs in eight matches at an average of 53.00, with four fifties. Overall, Iyer has amassed 2,845 runs from 70 ODI games at an excellent average of 48.22 and a strike rate of 100. His career tally includes five centuries and 22 half-centuries.

### Stellar Record in ICC ODI Events

Iyer’s performance in ICC ODI tournaments has been outstanding. He scored 530 runs in the 2023 World Cup, finishing as the seventh-highest run-scorer with an average of 66.25 and a strike rate of 113.24. He became the first middle-order batsman to cross 500 runs in a single World Cup edition.

With his exploits in the 2025 Champions Trophy, Iyer has now scored 773 runs across 16 ICC ODI matches, maintaining an average of 59.46. This includes five fifties and two centuries.

### Leadership in IPL 2025

Shreyas Iyer also demonstrated strong leadership in the IPL 2025 season by leading Punjab Kings to the final. The campaign was remarkable for Iyer with the bat, as he piled up 604 runs at an average of 50.33, including six half-centuries. He also struck 39 sixes—the most by any captain in a single IPL edition. His strike rate of 175.07 ranked third among batsmen scoring 600-plus runs that season.

With his consistent performances and leadership abilities, Shreyas Iyer appears well-poised to play a key role in India’s ODI setup under Shubman Gill’s captaincy. Fans and experts alike will be watching closely as he takes on this important responsibility.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/shreyas-iyer-becomes-new-vice-captain-of-india-s-odi-team/story

Shreyas Iyer becomes India’s new vice-captain in ODIs: Key stats

In a major shake-up, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has appointed Shubman Gill as the new captain of the Indian ODI team.

This significant decision marks a new chapter for Indian cricket as Gill takes on the leadership role in the One Day International format.

Cricket fans and experts alike are eager to see how the young and talented cricketer will steer the team in upcoming matches and tournaments.

Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the future of Indian cricket under Shubman Gill’s captaincy.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/shreyas-iyer-becomes-new-vice-captain-of-india-s-odi-team/story

2nd Unofficial ODI: Tilak Varma slams 94 versus Australia A

**2nd Unofficial ODI: Tilak Varma Slams 94 Against Australia A**

*By Rajdeep Saha | Oct 03, 2025, 06:23 PM*

Tilak Varma once again proved his class for India A in the 2nd unofficial ODI against Australia A at Green Park, Kanpur. Despite India A being bowled out for 246 in 45.5 overs, Varma was the standout performer with a brilliant knock of 94 runs off 122 balls.

Varma’s innings featured 5 fours and 4 sixes, showcasing a blend of elegance and power. This impressive knock was part of a crucial 101-run partnership with Riyan Parag that steadied the Indian innings after early setbacks.

Playing his 40th List A match, Varma has now accumulated 1,642 runs at an average of over 46. The 94-run effort marked his 10th fifty and added to his tally of 5 centuries in List A cricket, highlighting his consistent form and growing stature.

India A’s innings began shakily, losing early wickets to find themselves reeling at 17 for 3. Varma came in at 0/1 and took charge, anchoring the innings even as wickets fell at the other end. After Parag’s dismissal, Varma held firm, guiding the innings with maturity and resilience.

Ultimately, Varma was the last India A batsman to fall, dismissed for 94 by Jack Edwards. His knock, however, remains a significant highlight in India A’s performance against a competitive Australia A side.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/tilak-varma-slams-solid-94-runs-versus-australia-a/story

1st Test: India dominate Day 2 proceedings against West Indies

**1st Test: India Dominate Day 2 Proceedings Against West Indies**
*By Rajdeep Saha | Oct 03, 2025 | 05:10 pm*

The Indian cricket team ended Day 2 on a strong note against West Indies at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Resuming the day at 121/2, KL Rahul (53*) and Shubman Gill (18*) were at the crease, providing India with a solid platform. The duo handed India a good start before Dhruv Jurel and Ravindra Jadeja took over to dominate the proceedings.

### Summary of the Day

Rahul and Gill had added an unbeaten 31 runs on Day 1, and on Day 2, they stitched another 67 runs together. Gill was the first to fall for 50, followed by Rahul, who departed for a defiant 100 runs. Since then, Jurel and Jadeja have built a strong partnership, adding 200 runs to the scoreboard, with Jurel hitting a century and Jadeja firing in all cylinders.

### Shubman Gill’s Milestone

Gill fell prey to opposition skipper and off-spinner Roston Chase right after completing his fifty. Notably, Gill equaled a record held by the legendary Sunil Gavaskar. According to Cricbuzz, the last Indian captain to score 50+ in their debut home Test innings was Gavaskar, who had made a stunning 205 against West Indies at the Wankhede Stadium in 1978.

Playing his sixth Test as captain, Gill currently boasts 804 runs at an outstanding average of 73.09 from 11 innings.

### Gill’s Batting Stats

– This fifty was Gill’s 8th in Test cricket, taking his total to 2,697 runs from 38 Tests at an average of 41.49.
– He has scored nine Test centuries and eight fifties.
– This was his maiden fifty in four Test innings against the West Indies.
– Across 18 home Tests, Gill has accumulated 1,227 runs at an average of 42.31, including 10 scores of 50+ and four tons.

### KL Rahul’s 11th Test Century

Rahul reached his 11th Test hundred with a well-crafted 100 off 197 balls, including 12 fours. Playing his 64th Test, Rahul now has 3,889 runs at an average of 36.00. Against West Indies, he has scored 474 runs at a healthy average of 47.40, including two centuries and three 50+ scores. This hundred marked his 10th as an opener.

### Additional Highlights for Rahul

– This was Rahul’s second Test century on home soil, where he has amassed 1,249 runs at an average of 41.63.
– Overall, he boasts 12 scores of 50+ in India.
– In First-Class cricket, Rahul has played 112 matches, scoring 8,317 runs at an average of around 45. He now has 23 centuries and 39 fifties, as per ESPNcricinfo.

As Day 2 concludes, India’s dominance continues, with strong performances from their top order and middle order all but setting the tone in this Test match against West Indies.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/india-vs-west-indies-1st-test-day-2-report/story

Women’s WC: Crowd attendance in IND-SL match breaks records

**Women’s WC: Crowd Attendance in IND-SL Match Breaks Records**
*By Gaurav Tripathi | Oct 01, 2025, 09:26 AM*

The opening match of the ICC Women’s World Cup 2025 between India and Sri Lanka has set a new benchmark in women’s cricket attendance. Held on September 30 at Guwahati’s Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the game attracted an unprecedented crowd of 22,843 fans. This marks the highest attendance ever recorded for a group stage match in Women’s World Cup history, surpassing the previous record of 15,935 set during the India-Pakistan clash in 2024.

### Endorsement from Sachin Tendulkar

ICC Hall of Famer Sachin Tendulkar praised the remarkable progress made by women’s cricket in recent years. He hailed the Women’s Premier League (WPL) as a game-changer that has significantly enhanced visibility and financial security for women cricketers. Tendulkar also acknowledged the efforts of former BCCI secretary Jay Shah for championing equal match fees for men and women and for laying the foundation for the WPL.

### Recognition of ICC’s Initiatives

Tendulkar further lauded the ICC for announcing record prize money for the Women’s World Cup—an amount even higher than what was awarded for the men’s World Cup in 2023. He emphasized that such administrative measures not only transform lives but also send a powerful message that women’s cricket deserves equal respect. According to the former Indian cricket legend, initiatives like these inspire young girls by showing them that their passion is valued and supported equally.

### Match Highlights: India vs Sri Lanka

In a rain-curtailed encounter, India batted first and posted a competitive total of 269/8 in 47 overs. Notable contributions came from Amanjot Kaur and Deepti Sharma, both scoring vital fifties to steady the innings after early setbacks. Sri Lanka struggled in the middle order and were eventually all out for 211 runs.

Deepti Sharma also made an impact with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 54 runs. With these wickets, she became India’s second-highest wicket-taker in women’s ODI cricket, overtaking former spinner Neetu David.

The record-breaking attendance and the growing prominence of women’s cricket underscore a new era of recognition and support for the sport worldwide.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/sports/ind-sl-women-s-wc-encounter-sets-benchmark-with-22-843-fans/story

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