Author: Waqar Anwar

Gus Atkinson created history by taking a sensational Test hat-trick during the second Test against New Zealand in Wellington. His outstanding performance left the Kiwis stunned and put England in complete control of the match. This remarkable achievement adds another feather to the cap of the 26-year-old pace bowler, marking a dream start to his Test career. Atkinson’s hat-trick is the 15th by an England men’s bowler, and he is now one of only 14 Englishmen to accomplish this rare feat. How Did It Happen? Atkinson’s magical moment came during New Zealand’s first innings, where they were struggling at 86-5.…

2nd Test, Wellington (Day 2 of 5) Bethell Shines with Near Century Jacob Bethell delivered a stunning performance, scoring 96 runs on Day 2 of the second Test against New Zealand. This 21-year-old rising star showed why he’s one of England’s brightest prospects. Batting with confidence, he was just four runs short of becoming the youngest Englishman in 85 years to score a Test century. Batting alongside Ben Duckett, Bethell put up a brilliant 187-run partnership for the second wicket. Duckett himself scored 92 runs, further solidifying England’s dominant position in the game. When Duckett got out, England’s lead had…

England’s Harry Brook delivered an extraordinary performance on the opening day of the second Test against New Zealand in Wellington, smashing a breathtaking 123 off just 115 balls. His innings not only stabilized England after an early collapse but also placed them firmly in control of the match. Brook’s counterattack began with England struggling at 26 for 3, and his fearless approach turned the game around on a challenging pitch that offered plenty for the bowlers. His century came off just 91 balls, making it his second-fastest in Test cricket. New Zealand’s reply was shaky, closing at 86 for 5…

England’s Resilience on Display in WellingtonOn a dramatic opening day of the second Test in Wellington, Harry Brook’s scintillating 123 off 115 balls helped England recover from a precarious position. Despite early setbacks, England’s aggressive approach saw them post a competitive 280, before reducing New Zealand to 86 for 5 by stumps. England’s Early Struggles Electing to bat first, England faced a fierce New Zealand attack on a lively Basin Reserve pitch. Reduced to 43 for 4 within the first hour, the top order faltered under the pressure of disciplined bowling from Matt Henry and debutant Nathan Smith. Brook and…

A Captain’s Knock: Temba Bavuma Keeps It Simple and Spectacular When South Africa captain Temba Bavuma steps onto the field, the weight of expectations is immense. Yet, in Gqeberha, Bavuma crafted an innings that stood out for its simplicity and brilliance. Amidst challenges, he played a breezy knock that left cricket fans in awe. Bavuma’s Innings: A Masterclass in Timing and Technique Walking in at a precarious 44 for 3, Bavuma displayed exceptional composure from the outset. His timing was impeccable: By the time he reached his half-century off 57 balls, Bavuma had shifted the momentum firmly in South Africa’s…

England optimistic about Archer’s return for India Test series Jofra Archer’s return to Test cricket has taken a backseat as he gears up for the IPL next year. Rob Key, England’s managing director, acknowledged that Archer’s participation in the IPL will delay his Test comeback by “a couple of months,” but financial considerations and new IPL rules made it difficult for the ECB to intervene. Archer’s Challenges and Opportunities Jofra Archer hasn’t played a Test match since February 2021 due to persistent back and elbow injuries. However, he’s been injury-free throughout 2024, sparking optimism for his return. Archer’s recent decision…

Rickelton’s Breakthrough Test Century Ryan Rickelton has been a consistent performer in domestic cricket, but stepping up on the international stage brought doubts. That all changed with his maiden Test century at No. 3 against Sri Lanka, a knock that not only silenced his inner critic but also helped South Africa recover from a shaky start. Battling Self-Doubt Rickelton admitted that he questioned whether his domestic success could translate to the international level. When he reached 98 runs, an LBW decision against him caused uncertainty, even as South Africa had reviews to spare. Trusting the system, he challenged the decision…

A Breakthrough in the 2025 Champions Trophy Talks The International Cricket Council (ICC) and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) are reportedly making progress toward adopting a hybrid hosting model for the 2025 Champions Trophy and other ICC tournaments scheduled in India or Pakistan until 2027. This model would allow matches between the two nations to be played at neutral venues, breaking the stalemate caused by political tensions. This agreement, which is still under discussion, could mark a turning point for hosting global cricket events in the region. While the PCB has not yet officially commented on the development, sources close…

Zimbabwe Clinches a Nail-Biting Victory to End the T20I Series on a High Zimbabwe 133/8 (Bennett 43, Afridi 3-24) beat Pakistan 132/7 (Salman 32, Muzarabani 2-25) by two wickets Zimbabwe ended their T20I series against Pakistan with a breathtaking two-wicket victory in Bulawayo, giving the home crowd a match to remember. While Pakistan had already secured the series, this final game was anything but a dead rubber, as it featured dramatic twists and turns before debutant Tinotenda Maposa’s heroics sealed the win on the penultimate delivery. A Roller-Coaster Chase Chasing a modest 133, Zimbabwe got off to a flying start…

Baroda Sets New World Record for Highest T20 Total In an unforgettable performance, Baroda shattered the record for the highest total in men’s T20 cricket by scoring a massive 349 for 5 against Sikkim during the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy on Thursday in Indore. The previous record, set by Zimbabwe with 344 for 4 against Gambia in Nairobi, was left in the dust. Baroda didn’t stop there—they also broke the record for the most sixes in a T20 innings, smashing 37 sixes. The earlier record, also held by Zimbabwe, was 27 sixes in a single game. How Baroda Achieved the…