South Africa’s white-ball coach, Rob Walter, has taken full accountability for the team’s 3-1 defeat to India in the recently concluded T20I series but emphasized the broader goal of building a stronger player pool. Speaking after South Africa’s 135-run loss in the final match in Johannesburg, Walter described the series as a “balancing act” between fielding the strongest XI and giving younger players exposure to international cricket.

The series exposed South Africa’s struggles with depth, especially in the bowling department. The absence of experienced players such as Kagiso Rabada (rested), Lungi Ngidi (injured), and former centrally contracted stars Anrich Nortje and Tabraiz Shamsi highlighted the challenges. In their place, younger players like Marco Jansen, Gerald Coetzee, and debutant Andile Simelane were given opportunities but often appeared out of rhythm against a dominant Indian side.

Balancing development and performance

Walter acknowledged the importance of nurturing younger players to expand the team’s capabilities but admitted that performances must also improve. “To grow the net of players, there’s a time we have to play younger guys even in big series against good teams. Ultimately, that’s where they’re going to learn the most,” Walter said. However, he added that it does not excuse underperformance: “We still need to be better, and that starts with me as the head coach.”

Since Walter’s appointment in February 2023, South Africa have struggled in bilateral T20I series, failing to win any of the seven they have played. Despite these challenges, Walter is the only coach in South Africa’s history to lead the men’s team to a major tournament final, reaching the T20 World Cup finale in June 2024.

Walter attributed the discrepancy between their tournament success and bilateral form to the availability of key players. “In world tournaments, we’re picking our very best 15 players, but it’s not feasible to do that every time. We need to build our base of players to the same level,” he explained.

See Also: Nitish Reddy included in Ravi Shastri's playing Xl in the upcoming Perth Test

Competing with franchise cricket for talent

One of Walter’s most significant challenges lies in retaining top talent amid the lure of lucrative franchise leagues. The departures of Nortje and Shamsi from central contracts underscore the difficulties South Africa faces as a cricketing nation. “Franchise cricket offers financial security, which international cricket, especially in South Africa, struggles to compete with,” Walter admitted.

Walter clarified that both Nortje and Shamsi remain committed to South African cricket but have chosen to prioritize managing their workload and financial opportunities. “Anrich’s decision to step back from Test cricket was to manage his body better after severe injuries. I respect that. But we still want to field our best side for world tournaments, and players like Nortje and Shamsi will always be considered,” Walter said.

Walter also drew comparisons with India’s depth in white-ball cricket, highlighting the seamless integration of fringe players into their main squad. “India’s fringe players are creating pressure on their main XI, which is what we aspire to. But their situation is unique, as they don’t lose players to external franchise leagues,” he added.

Despite the setbacks, Walter remains optimistic about South Africa’s future in white-ball cricket. He emphasized the importance of patience and strategic planning to build a competitive team. “It’s a balancing act—between rest, rotation, and exposure—while staying competitive,” Walter concluded.

As South Africa prepares for its next series, the focus will remain on improving performances while continuing to develop a deeper player pool. Walter’s leadership will be critical as the team navigates the complex landscape of international cricket, balancing development and competition on the global stage.

SA vs IND Match Preview

It all comes down to this Friday! South Africa and India will face off one last time during the T20 series, with the match at the Wanderers. India leads the four-match series 2-1 after a thrilling victory in the final match. So it's do-or-die for the visiting team if they want to tie the game. India has had a lot of success with the Wanderers and is currently playing well, so the Proteas will need to bring their A-game if they want to win.

SA vs IND Match Details

South Africa vs India – 4th Match, T20I Match

Venue: DP World Wanderers Stadium, Sandton

Date & Time: 15th November 2024 at 08:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SA vs IND Venue Stats

SA vs IND Pitch Report

The Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg is well-known for its fast pitch with lively bounce. While pace bowlers will see some movement off the surface at first, batters will most likely find it easy to score runs due to the consistent pace and bounce.

SA vs IND Weather Report

Johannesburg's weather will be nice and pleasant. There is no rain forecast, so we should be able to play the entire match.

SA vs IND Last Five Matches

SA vs IND Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Usman Khawaja reveals why Jasprit Bumrah is different bowler

SA vs IND Probable Playing XIs:

India Probable Playing XIs

Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Ramandeep Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakaravarthy

South Africa Probable Playing XIs

Ryan Rickelton, Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (c), Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Andile Simelane, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Lutho Sipamla

Topmost Picks for SA vs IND Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – South Africa

• Heinrich Klaasen – Klaasen has an excellent record against India in the shorter format, and he should continue to score runs against his preferred opposition in the coming matches.
• Gerald Coetzee – Gerald Coetzee has the capability of generating some serious pace and will lead the seam attack in this game.

Top Picks – India

• Sanju Samson – Samson is going to be in the spotlight once more as he tries to make that opening slot his own, which will give the management team a headache when choosing Shubman Gill & Yashasvi Jaiswal.
• Ravi Bishnoi – Bishnoi has a knack for taking wickets when his team is struggling. He took three wickets in the final T20I against South Africa. Given his form, he will be the best bowling option from the side. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SA vs IND Dream11 Team:

Sanju Samson(VC), Heinrich Klaasen, Suryakumar Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Hardik Pandya, Marco Jansen(C), Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Arshdeep Singh

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SA vs IND Dream11 Team:

Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Tilak Varma(C), Aiden Markram, Hardik Pandya, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee(VC), Avesh Khan

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Tilak Varma, Marco Jansen

Vice-captain – Gerald Coetzee, Sanju Samson

Wicketkeeper – Sanju Samson

SA vs IND Probable Winners:

The tournament is nicely poised as we approach the final game. Both teams struggle with batting and bowling, but India appears to be in a better position. South Africa will undoubtedly have an advantage as hosts, but the poor performance by their top and middle order is cause for concern. If Klassen and Miller show up, South Africa will be the favorites to win. However, if the surface turns out to be another batter's paradise, we believe India will win the match. Considering the team combination, India is expected to win this match.

South African powerhouse Lizelle Lee has made WBBL history, becoming the first player to score back-to-back centuries in the tournament. Her formidable knock of 103 runs against the Adelaide Strikers not only highlighted her remarkable skill but also set the Hobart Hurricanes on a solid path to victory. Lee's incredible feat comes on the heels of her WBBL record score of 150 in her previous match, solidifying her position as one of the most impactful players in the competition.

Lizelle Lee’s record-breaking form leads Hurricanes to commanding score

Lizelle Lee carved her name in the annals of WBBL history with a sensational hundred against the Adelaide Strikers, following her record-breaking 150 just days prior. Playing for the Hobart Hurricanes, Lee struck a blistering 103 off just 59 balls, dominating the Strikers’ bowling lineup with 13 fours and four towering sixes. Her century set the tone for the Hurricanes’ innings, with Lee showcasing her power-hitting skills and remarkable precision.

One of the standout moments of Lee’s innings was a no-look six that sailed down the ground off Orla Prendergast, an effortless stroke that broke her bat due to its sheer power. Unfortunately, her innings ended on a run-out caused by an accidental deflection off bowler Jemma Barsby's hand. Nevertheless, Lee’s impactful knock helped the Hurricanes post an impressive 191 for 2, marking a record-breaking achievement for the South African star.

After Lee’s departure, Nicola Carey kept up the momentum, delivering an unbeaten 64 off 46 balls. Carey, alongside Elyse Villani, added a further 50 runs in the last five overs, setting a massive target for the Strikers and showcasing the Hurricanes’ depth and resilience in the middle order.

See Also: IPL 2025: KL Rahul shares his preferences ahead of the mega auction

Smriti Mandhana shines in strikers’ response 

In response to the Hurricanes' total, the Adelaide Strikers’ innings began with flair as India’s Smriti Mandhana launched an aggressive counterattack. Mandhana scored a quick 50 off 30 balls, giving the Strikers hope in their pursuit of the challenging target. Her innings showcased her class and adaptability, and the early assault helped keep the Strikers’ chase alive, offering fans an engaging contest despite the formidable total set by the Hurricanes.

Lizelle Lee’s performance has not only solidified her place as one of the most exciting batters in the tournament but also emphasized the immense talent and competitive spirit in women’s cricket. Her back-to-back centuries set a new benchmark in the WBBL, creating anticipation for her next appearances as she continues to push boundaries. With players like Lee setting records and raising the game’s excitement level, the Women’s Big Bash League is sure to keep cricket fans on the edge of their seats.

SA vs IND Match Preview

After losing the first match, South Africa will look to level the series when it faces India in the second match on Sunday. The game will take place at St George's Park in Gqeberha. Sanju Samson's magnificent century (107 off 50 balls) helped India defeat South Africa by 61 runs in the first T20I at Kingsmead, Durban, on Friday. The Indian side, led by Suryakumar Yadav, leads the four-match T20I series, 1-0.

SA vs IND Match Details

South Africa vs India – 3rd Match, T20I Match

Venue: SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium, Centurion

Date & Time: 13th November 2024 at 08:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SA vs IND Venue Stats

SA vs IND Pitch Report

The pitch at Gqeberha is usually the same throughout the match, so the toss will not be a major factor. There is plenty of carry for the quicker bowlers, and batsmen will be cautious of the new ball.

SA vs IND Weather Report

The weather is expected to be overcast, and there may be some delays due to rainfall.

SA vs IND Last Five Matches

SA vs IND Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanju Samson's father blames former Indian captains for disappointing career

SA vs IND Probable Playing XIs:

India Probable Playing XIs

Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav (c), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel/ Ramandeep Singh, Arshdeep Singh, Ravi Bishnoi, Varun Chakaravarthy, Avesh Khan

South Africa Probable Playing XIs

Ryan Rickelton, Reeza Hendricks, Aiden Markram (c), Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Andile Simelane, Gerald Coetzee, Keshav Maharaj, Nqabayomzi Peter

Topmost Picks for SA vs IND Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – South Africa

• Heinrich Klaasen – Klaasen has an excellent record against India in the shorter format, and he should continue to score runs against his preferred opposition in the coming matches.
• Gerald Coetzee – Gerald Coetzee has the capability of generating some serious pace and will lead the seam attack in this game.

Top Picks – India

• Sanju Samson – Samson is going to be in the spotlight once more as he tries to make that opening slot his own, which will give the management team a headache when choosing Shubman Gill & Yashasvi Jaiswal.
• Ravi Bishnoi – Bishnoi has a knack for taking wickets when his team is struggling. He took three wickets in the final T20I against South Africa. Given his form, he will be the best bowling option from the side. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SA vs IND Dream11 Team:

Sanju Samson(C), Heinrich Klaasen(VC), Suryakumar Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Hardik Pandya, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Arshdeep Singh

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SA vs IND Dream11 Team:

Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Tilak Varma, Aiden Markram, Hardik Pandya(C), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee(VC), Avesh Khan

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya

Vice-captain – Gerald Coetzee, Heinrich Klaasen

Wicketkeeper – Sanju Samson

SA vs IND Probable Winners:

South Africa holds a mixed record in Centurion, winning six of fourteen T20Is and losing eight. This suggests that don't have a clear advantage at this venue. Their batting strength, particularly that of Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen, and David Miller, can be formidable if these players get going. India, on the other hand, boasts a formidable batting lineup and exceptional spinners. However, their fast bowlers may encounter difficulties in critical situations. Still, India has done exceptionally well at T20Is this year, with just two losses. Considering the team combination, India is expected to win this match.

South Africa claimed a dramatic win in the Gqeberha T20I to level the home T20I series by 1-1 with two matches to go. Tristan Stubbs and Gerald Coetzee were the heroes of the match with their strong batting performances. 

Trailing the four-match T20I series by 1-0, hosts South Africa chose to field first in the second game. While India scored 124/6 in 20 overs, South Africa chased down the target in 19 overs after losing seven wickets. 

Indian middle-order batters fought hard

India lost their first three batters in the first four overs. Sanju Samson, who hit centuries previous two innings, scored a duck in the game. Struggling at 15/3, Tilak Varma (20) and Axar Patel (27) fought hard before losing their wickets at important times.

Hardik Pandya batted till the end as the right-handed batter scored 39 not out off 45 balls (four fours and one six). 

South African bowlers Marco Jansen (1/25), Gerald Coetzee (1/25), Andile Simelane (1/20), Aiden Markram (1/4), and Nqabayomzi Peter (1/20) got one wicket each, while Keshav Maharaj also maintained his tight bowling (4-0-24-0).

Varun Chakravarthy dominated with the ball

In reply, South African openers provided a better start. However, the openers failed to hold their starts as Ryan Rickelton (13) and Reeza Hendricks (24) were dismissed at disappointing times. Before Hendricks was bowled by Varun Chakravarthy, captain Aiden Markram (3), who was feeling uncomfortable after getting hit hard on his helmet, was also bowled by Varun.

While Varun and Ravi Bishnoi were dominating with the ball, the Proteas’ batters had no clue. Stubbs was holding one end, but the other batters failed to support him. 

Varun finished with the bowling figures of 4-0-17-5, while Bishnoi ended with the bowling figures of 4-0-21-0. Out of his five wickets, four were bowled. 

Stubbs and Coetzee stunned at the end

However, in the slog overs, while the Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav decided to go with his pacers, Stubbs and Gerald Coetzee dominated to secure a stunning victory. Struggling at 86/7 in 15.4 overs, South Africa chased the target in 19 overs. 

Apart from Varun and Bishnoi, only Arshdeep Singh (4-0-41-1) managed to pick up a wicket as he broke the opening partnership. 

This result ended India’s 11-match unbeaten streak in the T20I format. Although it was Suryakumar Yadav’s third defeat as a T20I captain, it was his first defeat after becoming a regular captain. 

SA vs IND Match Preview

After losing the first match, South Africa will look to level the series when it faces India in the second match on Sunday. The game will take place at St George's Park in Gqeberha. Sanju Samson's magnificent century (107 off 50 balls) helped India defeat South Africa by 61 runs in the first T20I at Kingsmead, Durban, on Friday. The Indian side, led by Suryakumar Yadav, leads the four-match T20I series, 1-0.

SA vs IND Match Details

South Africa vs India – 2nd Match, T20I Match

Venue: Saint George's Park - Gqeberha

Date & Time: 10th November 2024 at 07:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SA vs IND Venue Stats

SA vs IND Pitch Report

The pitch at Gqeberha is usually the same throughout the match, so the toss will not be a major factor. There is plenty of carry for the quicker bowlers, and batsmen will be cautious of the new ball.

SA vs IND Weather Report

The weather is expected to be overcast, and there may be some delays due to rainfall.

SA vs IND Last Five Matches

SA vs IND Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Sanju Samson reveals who motivates him in Indian team during his failure

SA vs IND Probable Playing XIs:

India Probable Playing XIs

Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav (capt), Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Rinku Singh, Axar Patel, Ravi Bishnoi, Avesh Khan, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh

South Africa Probable Playing XIs

Reeza Hendricks, Ryan Rickelton, Aiden Markram (capt), Tristan Stubbs, Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Nqaba Peter, Ottneil Baartman

Topmost Picks for SA vs IND Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – South Africa

• Heinrich Klaasen – Klaasen has an excellent record against India in the shorter format, and he should continue to score runs against his preferred opposition in the coming matches.
• Keshav Maharaj – Keshav Maharaj is a deft left-arm spinner who does not give up runs and makes breakthroughs when it counts the most, particularly in the game's shortest format. Maharaj took one wicket in the last game against India.

Top Picks – India

• Sanju Samson – Samson is going to be in the spotlight once more as he tries to make that opening slot his own, which will give the management team a headache when choosing Shubman Gill & Yashasvi Jaiswal.
• Ravi Bishnoi – Bishnoi has a knack for taking wickets when his team is struggling. He took three wickets in the final T20I against South Africa. Given his form, he will be the best bowling option from the side. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SA vs IND Dream11 Team:

Sanju Samson(C), Heinrich Klaasen(VC), Suryakumar Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Abhishek Sharma, Aiden Markram, Hardik Pandya, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee, Arshdeep Singh

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SA vs IND Dream11 Team:

Sanju Samson, Suryakumar Yadav, Tristan Stubbs, Tilak Varma, Aiden Markram, Hardik Pandya(C), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee(VC), Avesh Khan

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Sanju Samson, Hardik Pandya

Vice-captain – Gerald Coetzee, Heinrich Klaasen

Wicketkeeper – Sanju Samson

SA vs IND Probable Winners:

India delivered a clinical show in the first game, and they are the odds-on favorites to win this match. They have a well-rounded team with some good all-rounders who give them an advantage. Nonetheless, South Africa will fight hard, and we are anticipating a close contest. Considering the team combination, India is expected to win this match.

SA vs IND Match Preview

It is the first game of the four-game series, and hosts South Africa will look to take an early lead as they face India. When the two teams met, the Indians won the ICC T20 World Cup final. Since then, Indian cricket has reached a low point with a home series loss to New Zealand. They are prepared for a strong comeback as the South Africans look to capitalise on their recent home form to win this game. The Indians' bowling attack is inexperienced, which could prove decisive in this series. They don't have a good record in South Africa, so it'll be interesting to see how the team performs. 

SA vs IND Match Details

South Africa vs India – 1st Match, T20I Match

Venue: Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium Cricket Ground, Durban

Date & Time: 08th November 2024 at 08:30 PM IST 

Live Streaming: Disney+Hotstar

SA vs IND Venue Stats

SA vs IND Pitch Report

Quick bowlers have always liked bowling at this pitch, where the surface provides pace and bounce. Batsmen must focus their eyes on the wicket before they begin playing their shots, which becomes easier.

SA vs IND Weather Report

Rain is expected in the venue, and the weather will be mostly cloudy. The moisture on the wicket will present a challenge for the batsmen.

SA vs IND Last Five Matches

SA vs IND Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

No Injury. Will be added when there is an update.

Also Read: Low scoring Oman vs UAE ODI enters the record books

SA vs IND Probable Playing XIs:

India Probable Playing XIs

Suryakumar Yadav (c), Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Tilak Varma, Rinku Singh, Varun Chakravarthy, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Avesh Khan, Ramandeep Singh

South Africa Probable Playing XIs

Aiden Markram (c), Reeza Hendricks, Ryan Rickelton (wk), David Miller, Marco Jansen, Heinrich Klaasen, Gerald Coetzee, Ottneil Baartman, Tristan Stubbs, Keshav Maharaj, Nqabayomzi Peter

Topmost Picks for SA vs IND Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – South Africa

• Ryan Rickelton – Ryan Rickelton scored a quick 48 in the second matchand and looked completely in command before getting out.
• Keshav Maharaj – Keshav Maharaj is the most experienced bowler in the side and must bowl tight lines in the middle overs.

Top Picks – India

• Suryakumar Yadav – Suryakumar Yadav will lead a batting unit that has plenty of big strikers including himself.
• Varun Chakravarthy – India will likely continue with Varun Chakravarthy as the frontline spinner in the team. 

Suggested Playing XI N0.1 for SA vs IND Dream11 Team:

Heinrich Klaasen, Sanju Samson, Aiden Markram, Tristan Stubbs(VC), Suryakumar Yadav(C), Abhishek Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Marco Jansen, Arshdeep Singh, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee

Suggested Playing XI N0.2 for SA vs IND Dream11 Team:

Heinrich Klaasen, Sanju Samson, David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Suryakumar Yadav, Abhishek Sharma, Hardik Pandya(C), Marco Jansen(VC), Arshdeep Singh, Keshav Maharaj, Gerald Coetzee

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya

Vice-captain – Tristan Stubbs, Marco Jansen

Wicketkeeper – Heinrich Klaasen

SA vs IND Probable Winners:

The Indians have a solid batting lineup, but their bowling attack is young and inexperienced. The majority of the bowlers have never played in South African conditions, so the spin-heavy attack will have to overcome the odds to succeed. South Africa has a strong batting lineup as well as a bowling attack that is well-suited to the conditions. We anticipate a close game, but the South Africans have an advantage because they will be playing at home. Considering the team combination, South Africa is expected to win this match.

The Africa Cricket Association (ACA), the continental body for cricket in Africa is gearing up to revive perhaps the most dynamic rivalries of world cricket. The Afro-Asia Cup is all set to return to the grand scheme of things for the first time since its final edition which took place in India in 2007. The tournament will comprise a series of white-ball matches that will be played between the Africa Playing Xl and Asia Playing Xl. Players based on merit will be chosen from major countries in Africa and Asia. However, a major chunk of talent will originate from India, Pakistan, and South Africa. 

ACA conducted its AGM meeting on Sunday where they formed a six-person committee to bring about institutional reforms and drive the number of opportunities for the players from the continent. One of the key goals of this organization is to establish ties with the Asia Cricket Council (ACC) and discuss initiatives such as the Afro-Asia Cup which can open up a wide array of cross-continental cricket opportunities for the wider region. 

A look into the tournament's past

The inaugural edition of the Afro-Asia Cup was held way back in 2005 in South Africa and later in 2007 in India. The third edition of the tournament was supposed to take place in Kenya in 2009 but the plan never materialized. The 2005 Asia squad was led by Inzamam-ul-Haq whereas Shaun Pollock took charge of the Africa squad. That squad featured some of the big names in world cricket at that time including but not limited to AB de Villiers, Jacques Kallis, Dale Steyn, Steve Tikolo, and Mark Boucher. Asia Xl on the other hand also featured some major heavyweights including the likes of Kumar Sangakkara, Virender Sehwag, Anil Kumble, Shoaib Akhtar, and Shahid Afridi.

At that time, both India and Pakistan shared friendly geopolitical relations which in turn had a positive impact on the cricketing rivalries between the two nations. But all of that changed when the infamous 2008 terror attacks took place in Mumbai. Since that tragic incident, both nations have been at odds with each other and have not engaged in participating in bilateral series. 

But if the third edition of the Afor-Asia Cup is to take place, then we may see the Indian and Pakistani players in action alongside each other. Considering the strained political ties between the two countries, such a sight will be quite a spectacle for the fans and the media houses to cherish.

How will the Afro-Asia Cup positively impact Zimbabwe cricket 

Tavengwa Mukuhlani, interim chair of the ACA, comments that apart from providing much-needed entertainment to the cricket fans, the tournament would also bring in a lot of revenue which the country so desperately requires. Mukuhlani, who is also the Zimbabwe Cricket Chair revealed that he is currently having conversations with his Asian counterparts (ACC) on getting this tournament back to its glory days. 

Mukuhlani makes it clear that the players from his country will participate in the tournament along with their South African neighbors. He believes that the presence of Zimbabwean and South African players adds a layer of versatility to the tournament which then opens up new doors for the young and upcoming cricketers to hone new skills and advance their level of cricket.  

See also: India officially bids to host Summer Olympics 2036

The ICC has released the latest Future Tours Programme (FTP) for women's cricket for the 2025-29 cycle, bringing several key updates aimed at enhancing the global profile of the sport. Among the highlights are dedicated windows for three major T20 leagues: the Women's Premier League (WPL) in January-February, The Hundred in August, and the Women’s Big Bash League (WBBL) in November. This strategic scheduling ensures uninterrupted participation of international stars, thereby heightening the competition’s appeal and fan engagement across the globe.

ICC unveils new women's FTP with separate windows for WPL, Hundred, and WBBL

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has also shifted the WPL window to January-February from 2026. This adjustment aligns with Cricket Australia's (CA) decision to reschedule its marquee international home fixtures, previously held in mid-January, to a February-March window. The 2025 Women’s Ashes, set to begin in January, will be Australia’s last home series during this time slot until at least 2029. Following the WPL in 2026, Australia is set to host India for a highly anticipated tour, featuring one Test, three ODIs, and three T20Is.

See Also: KL Rahul, Dhruv Jurel head to Australia early for crucial preparation ahead of Test

ICC Women's Championship expanded and new T20 Champions Trophy announced

In a bid to expand the reach of women's cricket, the ICC Women's Championship will now include 11 teams, with Zimbabwe joining as the latest addition. This expansion follows the recent inclusion of Bangladesh and Ireland, underscoring the ICC’s commitment to growing the women’s game. With Zimbabwe’s addition, every Full Member of the ICC, except Afghanistan, will now field a team in the ODI Championship. The current cycle will culminate in the 2025 ODI World Cup in India, promising a highly competitive format with new entrants.

The ICC also introduced a T20 Champions Trophy, set to be hosted by Sri Lanka in 2027. This event is part of ICC’s strategy to have at least one global women’s tournament every year, with the Champions Trophy joining an already busy schedule of major events. In 2028, fans can look forward to the inclusion of cricket in the Los Angeles Olympics (August) and the T20 World Cup (September), which will take place within a 14-month period, offering fans an action-packed calendar of top-level women’s cricket.

After South Africa dominated with the bat in the Chattogram Test, Bangladesh started their innings in a surprising way. The hosts scored 10 runs in one ball of the innings and that too without hitting the ball. 

Leading the series by 1-0, South African captain Aiden Markram chose to bat first. With the help of three centuries (Tony de Zorzi 177, Tristan Stubbs 106, and Wiaan Mulder 105*) and two more half-centuries (David Bedingham 59 and Senuran Muthusamy 68*), South Africa scored 575/6 before declaring the innings. 

After the first innings of the Test match, Bangladesh scored 10 runs before the second ball of the innings. Moreover, both the openers hadn’t opened their accounts yet.

Penalty runs

Actually, Bangladesh earned five penalty runs due to South Africa’s excessive running on the pitch. Even after several warnings, the visitors exceeded the limit. During the 144th over, just a few balls before the declaration, Bangladesh were awarded five penalty runs. It means that Bangladesh started the innings with 5/0. 

No ball + four byes

After the first delivery of Bangladesh's innings, Kagiso Rabada delivered a widish ball to the leg side, which the wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne failed to save, and it went to the boundary. Moreover, the bowling end umpire signaled the delivery a no-ball as Bangladesh scored 10 runs in just one ball.

10 runs after 1 delivery without bat hitting ball: Have you ever seen this before?! 😮#ICYMI: South Africa were penalised 5 runs earlier for Muthuswamy running straight down the pitch, making Bangladesh start their innings at 5/0.#BANvSAonFanCode pic.twitter.com/nAHFUQBXyK

— FanCode (@FanCode) October 30, 2024

However, the Bangladesh camp’s little smile was erased by the South African bowlers. Bangladesh ended the day at 38/4 as they are trailing by 537 runs. Only the opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy (10) reached double-digit figures in the first nine overs of the innings. Mominul Haque (6*) and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto (4*) are unbeaten in the innings.

Kagiso Rabada (2/8) took two wickets, while Dane Paterson (1/15) and Keshav Maharaj (1/4) took one wicket each.