Ricky Ponting lauded Beau Webster’s crucial 72 in the World Test Championship final against South Africa, highlighting his comfort and aggressive approach amidst challenging conditions. Webster’s knock, along with Steve Smith’s 66, helped Australia reach a competitive 212.
England’s head coach Brendon McCullum expressed excitement about the upcoming five-Test series against India, highlighting the team’s varied bowling attack. Despite missing key bowlers, he praised the emerging talent, including spinner Shoaib Bashir. India, embarking on a new era without veterans like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, will begin their WTC cycle. Shubman Gill will be leading the side.
Sanjana Ganesan revealed that Jasprit Bumrah’s cricket has improved since their son Angad’s birth, attributing it to a peaceful home life. She also highlighted the unique personalities of cricketers’ wives and their complementary roles. Sanjana shared lighthearted moments with Bumrah, noting his attempts to distract her during interviews and their comfortable off-field bond as ‘gossip buddies’.
AB de Villiers penned a heartfelt letter to Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) after their IPL victory, celebrating their long-awaited triumph. He reminisced about his bond with Virat Kohli and lauded the team’s youngsters. RCB defeated Punjab Kings (PBKS) in a thrilling final, ending their 18-year title drought.
West Indies coach Daren Sammy voiced concerns over Nicholas Pooran’s premature international retirement, hinting at a potential trend due to T20 franchise cricket’s allure. Sammy emphasised the significance of national pride and fan loyalty, recalling West Indies’ rich cricket heritage. In Pooran’s absence, the team faced defeats in England, exposing bowling frailties.
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.