Cricketing Highlights of the Week
This week in cricket was marked by India’s disappointing Test series whitewash against South Africa, the unveiling of the T20 World Cup 2026 schedule, and excitement surrounding the inaugural Mega WPL Auction. Young talents Ayush Mhatre and Abhishek Sharma made headlines, while veterans Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli showcased their skills upon returning to ODIs.
India’s Test Series Defeat
The final week of November brought a wave of cricketing events, including India’s significant Test series loss to South Africa. After a narrow defeat in Kolkata by 30 runs, India faced a staggering 408-run loss in Guwahati, marking their largest home defeat in red-ball cricket and resulting in a 0-2 series loss. This defeat raised concerns about India’s batting performance and team selection, as they struggled against South African batsmen.
Australia Dominates in Ashes Opener
In the Ashes 2025 series opener, Australia, led by Steve Smith, secured an eight-wicket victory over England at the Optus Stadium in Perth. Australia’s bowlers excelled, dismissing England twice in two days, while Travis Head’s explosive 123 off 83 balls helped Australia chase down a 205-run target in just 28.2 overs.
Controversy Surrounds South Africa’s Coach
South Africa’s head coach, Shukri Conrad, stirred controversy by using the term ‘grovel’ to describe his team’s approach to the Test series against India. This term, which carries racial connotations, drew criticism from former Indian cricketers, including Anil Kumble and Cheteshwar Pujara, who deemed it disrespectful.
T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule Announced
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has released the fixtures for the T20 World Cup 2026, set to take place from February 7 to March 8, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The tournament will feature 20 teams divided into four groups, with India placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, the USA, and Namibia.
Jemimah Rodrigues Supports Smriti Mandhana
Jemimah Rodrigues, who participated in the Women’s World Cup, has opted out of the ongoing BBL season to support her friend and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana, whose wedding was postponed due to her father’s health issues.
Successful Mega WPL Auction
The inaugural Mega Auction for the Women’s Premier League (WPL) was a success, with all five franchises actively bidding for top players. A total of 277 players were auctioned, with 67 sold for a combined INR 40.8 crore. Deepti Sharma emerged as the most expensive player, bought back for INR 3.2 crore.
Ayush Mhatre Shines in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
Young cricketer Ayush Mhatre made headlines with a stunning performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, scoring 110 runs off 53 balls against Vidarbha, becoming the youngest player to score centuries in all three formats.
Faf du Plessis to Skip IPL 2026 Auction
Former RCB captain Faf du Plessis has announced he will not participate in the upcoming IPL 2026 Auction, seeking new challenges in the Pakistan Super League after a disappointing IPL 2025 season.
Abhishek Sharma’s Record-Breaking Performance
In another remarkable display, Abhishek Sharma scored 148 runs off just 52 balls in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, achieving several T20 records, including the joint-second fastest fifty by an Indian.
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli’s ODI Comeback
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli made their return to the national team in the first ODI against South Africa, with Rohit scoring 57 and Kohli achieving a remarkable 135, marking his 52nd ODI century.
