And the inevitable happened. New Zealand, who have been unplayable in the ongoing series, scripted a historic Test series win. Yes, after a record 12 years, 4335 days to be precise, India have lost a Test series at home. Mitchell Santner’s masterclass and the lack of confidence while playing spin by the Indian batters led the hosts to a crushing 113-run loss in Pune. On the flip side, Pakistan ended their home hoodoo by smashing the BazBall of England. Sajid Khan and Noman Ali guided Pakistan to a remarkable Test series win, sharing 19 wickets together. Apart from this, we even received updates on MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. On that note, here are six of the most striking news stories from Saturday, October 26.
MS Dhoni confirms for IPL 2025?
MS Dhoni has hinted at playing a few more years of IPL cricket. Yes, the CSK legend wants to enjoy the game and is likely to be retained by the franchise for IPL 2025. While Harbhajan Singh has suggested making Dhoni the team’s first pick, it’s more likely that he’ll be retained as an uncapped player. Dhoni’s decision to continue playing is welcome news for CSK fans, who are eager to see their beloved icon in action.
Angry Virat Kohli
Virat Kohli’s usually calm demeanour (these days) took a dramatic turn during the recent India-New Zealand second Test. After another flop show with the bat, he was caught on camera smashing a water box in frustration. The video quickly went viral. While some empathised, others criticised his behavior. This outburst, while unusual for Kohli, highlights the intense pressure he is riding on currently. After all, he is enduring a tough phase currently with the bat, averaging only 21.9 across formats this year—his career worst.
Rohit Sharma defends his batters
Despite India’s shocking series defeat to New Zealand in Pune, captain Rohit Sharma defended his struggling batting lineup. “It happens sometimes that you can’t do what you plan,” Rohit said in the post-match press conference, refusing to be drawn into heavy criticism of his team’s collapse against spin. “Whatever we have won in the past, these boys have made us win. I don’t want to do too much post-mortem.” The skipper acknowledged the collective failure but maintained his support for the team, especially with the upcoming Australia tour. “I am not going to overreact.” The hosts’ batting performance was nothing short of abysmal nonetheless.
Birth & Burial of Bazball in Pakistan
Pakistan finally broken their winless streak at home, securing a dominant victory over England in the third Test. The spin duo of Sajid Khan and Noman Ali wreaked havoc, claiming 10 wickets between them in the second innings again. England, the proponents of the ‘Bazball’ era, were outplayed by Pakistan’s disciplined bowling attack. The visitors were bundled out for a paltry 112 runs, their second-lowest total against Pakistan. This was the second consecutive Test where Pakistan’s spinners took all 20 wickets. Pakistan chased down the target of 36 runs in just 3.1 overs to complete a resounding 9-wicket victory.
Coaching shakeup at PBKS
Punjab Kings, under new head coach Ricky Ponting, are gearing up for the IPL 2025 auction. They’ve retained key figures like Brad Haddin and Sunil Joshi, while also introducing former Australian all-rounder James Hopes to the coaching staff. Hopes, who previously worked with Ponting at Delhi Capitals, brings experience to the team.
MI, LSG to buy Hundred franchises
Indian billionaires Mukesh Ambani and Sanjiv Goenka have reportedly placed bids to acquire stakes in multiple teams in The Hundred, the 100-ball cricket tournament in England. Ambani, owner of the Mumbai Indians IPL franchise, aims to expand his cricket portfolio, while Goenka, owner of the Lucknow Super Giants, seeks to strengthen his international presence. The ECB is offering a 49% stake in each team, and the level of interest from global investors is said to be high.
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