Mitchell Starc etched his name in history at Lord’s, becoming the leading wicket-taker in ICC tournament finals with 11 wickets, surpassing Mohammed Shami. Australia’s pace attack, led by Starc, dismantled South Africa, leaving them reeling at 43 for 4 after being bowled out for 212. Kagiso Rabada’s five-wicket haul and a rare statistical anomaly marked a day dominated by bowlers.
Kagiso Rabada’s stunning five-wicket haul helped South Africa dismiss Australia for 212 on Day 1 of the WTC Final at Lord’s. However, Australia fought back, leaving South Africa at 43 for 4 at stumps. The day also saw a historic first, with both teams’ No. 1 batters dismissed for a duck.
India’s football coach, Manolo Marquez, faces an imminent exit after a string of disappointing results, including a recent loss to Hong Kong. Marquez, with only one win in eight games, finds his team’s Asian Cup qualification hopes dwindling.
Steve Smith achieved a milestone at Lord’s, surpassing batting records. He scored 66 runs during the World Test Championship final. Australia was struggling initially, but Smith’s innings stabilized the team. Kagiso Rabada took five wickets, becoming South Africa’s leading bowler at Lord’s. Both Smith and Rabada shared insights on the pitch conditions.
Jason Holder has been named captain of the Los Angeles Knight Riders for the 2025 MLC season, bringing his leadership and all-round skills to the team. Due to international commitments, Holder will miss the first two games, with Sunil Narine stepping in as captain. Holder is set to join the team before their June 17 match against Washington Freedom.
Mitchell Starc spearheaded Australia’s fightback against South Africa in the World Test Championship final at Lord’s. After being dismissed for 212, with Kagiso Rabada claiming 5-51, Australia’s bowlers reduced South Africa to 43-4. Starc took two crucial wickets, while Cummins and Hazlewood each grabbed one.
Following his Test retirement announcement in May, Indian ODI captain Rohit Sharma intrigued fans with a recent Instagram post featuring toys and a humorous caption about his daughters’ explanations. The 38-year-old, despite a dip in form during the 2024-25 season, had a significant Test career, amassing 4,301 runs.
Ollie Pope acknowledges India’s talent despite Virat Kohli’s absence in the upcoming five-Test series starting June 20 in Leeds. He recognizes Shubman Gill’s captaincy and India’s depth but notes Kohli’s aura will be missed. Pope emphasizes the series as crucial preparation for the Ashes, highlighting the high level of competition India brings.
India’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, has challenged Nitish Reddy to increase his bowling workload to complement his batting prowess in the upcoming England Test series. While acknowledging Reddy’s ability to bowl “magical” balls, Morkel emphasizes the need for consistency. He also expressed confidence in Jasprit Bumrah’s preparation and fitness, dismissing concerns about limited match practice.
Ravi Shastri expressed his sadness over Virat Kohli’s sudden retirement from Test cricket, acknowledging Kohli’s significant impact as a player and ambassador, especially overseas. Shastri believes Kohli’s exit could have been managed more thoughtfully, suggesting better communication was needed. He reminisced about Kohli’s captaincy, highlighting the team’s success and Kohli’s commitment to Test cricket.