India Women (IND-W) are set to take on South Africa Women (SA-W) in the final of the Women's World Cup 2025. India Women reached the final by beating Australia's 339 with nine balls remaining, which was one of the most dramatic chases in women's cricket history. Jemimah Rodrigues' unbeaten 127 from 134 deliveries was a brilliant start to the chase, while Harmanpreet Kaur's innings was full of intent and control. 

On the other hand, South Africa's women have had an incredible World Cup run, recovering from heavy defeats at both ends of their group stage to win every match in between. A well-deserved spot in the final was secured by their 125-run victory over England in the semifinal.

Also Read: IND vs AUS Dream11 Prediction 3rd T20I match Fantasy Cricket Tips, Probable Playing XI

IND-W vs SA-W Match Details

• Match: Final, ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025

• Date: Sunday, 2nd November 2025

• Time: 3:00 PM IST

• Venue: Dr. D.Y. Patil Sports Academy, Navi Mumbai 

• Live Streaming: FanCode

IND-W vs SA-W Weather Report

The forecast for Sunday afternoon in Navi Mumbai shows chances of thunderstorms with the average temperature expected to be around 28°C.

IND-W vs SA-W Pitch Report – Dr. D.Y. Patil Sports Academy 

• Average 1st Innings Score: 275–290

• Chasing Teams: Won 60% of recent matches

• Best Suited: Batting 

IND-W vs SA-W Head-to-Head Record

Top Batters to Watch – IND-W vs SA-W

• Laura Wolvaardt (SA-W): 470 runs in this tournament

• Smriti Mandhana (IND-W): 389 runs in this tournament

• Jemimah Rodrigues (IND-W): 268 runs in this tournament

Top Bowlers to Watch – IND-W vs SA-W

• Deepti Sharma (IND-W): 17 wickets in this tournament

• Shree Charani (IND-W): 13 wickets in this tournament

• Marizanne Kapp (SA-W): 12 wickets in this tournament

IND-W vs SA-W Recent Form

IND-W vs SA-W Today Match Prediction Scenarios

Scenario 1 – If India Women bat first

• Powerplay Score Prediction: 55–65 runs

• First Innings Total: 290–320 runs expected

• Result Prediction: India Women to win by 30-50 Runs

Scenario 2 – If South Africa Women bat first

• Powerplay Score Prediction: 50–60 runs

• First Innings Total: 270–290 runs expected

• Result Prediction: India Women to win by 5 wickets 

Who Will Hit the Most Sixes in IND-W vs SA-W?

Who Will Hit the Most Fours in IND-W vs SA-W?

IND-W vs SA-W Probable Playing XI

India Women (IND-W)

Shafali Verma, Smriti Mandhana, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Kranti Gaud, Shree Charani, Renuka Singh Thakur

South Africa Women (SA-W)

Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Annerie Dercksen, Anneke Bosch, Marizanne Kapp, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba

IND-W vs SA-W Today Match Prediction – Who Will Win Today’s Match?

We predict that India Women will win this ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025 match. Richa Ghosh, Smriti Mandhana and Harmanpreet Kaur will be key players to watch out for.

FAQs – IND-W vs AUS-W Today Match Prediction

Q1. What is the venue for today’s IND-W vs SA-W match?

A: The match will be played at Dr. D.Y. Patil Sports Academy 

Q2. Who is likely to win the IND-W vs SA-W match today?

A: Indian women are expected to win this ICC Women’s ODI World Cup 2025 match.

Q3. What time will the IND-W vs SA-W match start?

A: The match begins at 3:00 PM IST.

IND vs AUS Match Preview

We're in the third game of the five-match series, and host Australia will look to extend their lead as they face World T20 Champions India. The Australians put on an outstanding performance in the final game, winning by four wickets. They dominated with both the bat and the ball and will look to draw confidence from their victory. The Indians are with their backs against the wall and will attempt to make a strong comeback. The Indians have performed well in this format over the last year. The team has lost only one of its last ten games and has an impressive record against the Australians. They will strive to deliver a better performance in this game. The Australians will be missing their key bowler, who is being rested for the remainder of the season, and it will be fascinating to see how well the rest of the team performs.

IND vs AUS Match Details

India vs Australia – 3rd T20I Match, India tour of Australia 2025 

Venue: Bellerive Oval, Hobart

Date & Time: 02nd November 2025 at 01:45 PM IST 

Live Streaming: FanCode

IND vs AUS Venue Stats 

IND vs AUS Pitch Report

The ball will come on the bat easily, allowing for stroke play. The average first-inning score is 158 runs, and a score of 180 or higher would be a competitive total at this venue.

IND vs AUS Weather Report

Hobart will have partly overcast skies, and batters will find the conditions difficult early in the game when the ball moves a little.

IND vs AUS Last Five Matches

IND vs AUS Head-to-Head Stats

Injury News

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

Also Read: IND vs AUS Dream11 Prediction 3rd T20I match

IND vs AUS Probable Playing XIs:

Australia Probable Playing XIs

Mitchell Marsh (c), Travis Head, Josh Inglis (wk), Matthew Short, Tim David, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Xavier Bartlett, Nathan Ellis, Adam Zampa, Sean Abbott

India Probable Playing XIs

Suryakumar Yadav (c), Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Tilak Varma, Harshit Rana, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav

Topmost Picks for IND vs AUS Dream11 Prediction:

Top Picks – India

• Abhishek Sharma – Abhishek Sharma is India's top run-scorer in 2025, with an average of more than 48 in 14 innings. He has scored at least 24 runs in ten of his last twelve innings, so we expect him to deliver a good performance.
• Kuldeep Yadav – Kuldeep Yadav has taken 19 wickets in 8 matches at an economy rate of 7.12.

Top Picks – Australia

• Mitchell Marsh – Mitchell Marsh is the team's leading run-scorer, scoring 346 runs in 10 matches at an average of 49.43 and a strike rate of 176.08.
• Nathan Ellis – Nathan Ellis is succeeding for the team with 8 wickets in 6 matches at an economy rate of 8.60.

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

Josh Inglis, Abhishek Sharma(C), Mitchell Marsh(VC), Suryakumar Yadav, Shubman Gill, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Axar Patel, Jasprit Bumrah, Nathan Ellis, Kuldeep Yadav

Captain and Vice-Captain Options:

Captain – Abhishek Sharma, Marcus Stoinis

Vice-captain – Mitchell Marsh, Suryakumar Yadav

Wicketkeeper – Josh Inglis

IND vs AUS Probable Winners:

The Australians easily won the previous game, but they have performed poorly against the Indians in this format. The bowling line appears to be lacking the presence of Josh Hazelwood, and the remaining bowlers must perform well for the team to win. The Indians have an excellent batting lineup and a deep bowling attack. It will be an exciting match, but the Indians will have a slight advantage due to their stronger batting order. Considering the team combination, India is expected to win this match.

During the decisive third T20I match at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore against South Africa, Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered an electric opening over to help Pakistan seize control of the match. The left-arm speedster struck twice in quick succession to dismiss both Quinton de Kock and Lhuan-dre Pretorius in his first-over debut to ensure Pakistan had a dream start. 

After Pakistan captain Salman Agha opted to bowl first, everyone was waiting for Shaheen to make early breakthroughs, and he did just that. Shaheen's second ball of the innings jagged back sharply into de Kock, who attempted to cut the ball but only managed an inside edge that crashed into the stumps, sending the South African opener off without scoring. The crowd in Lahore cheered loudly. 

Next ball, he had Lhuan-dre Pretorius in trouble. Looking for a  full length delivery over the wicket, he angled one on middle and leg that skidded through; Pretorius attempted to flick but mistimed the execution, allowing Usman Tariq at short fine leg to complete a sharp catch. Two wickets in two balls, and South Africa were suddenly 0 for 2. 

Watch the video:

When he hits the hard length - this is what happens 👇
(Shaheen Shah Afridi)pic.twitter.com/bSkBUUtSsX

— Emmad Hameed (@Emmad81) November 1, 2025

ALSO SEE: IPL trade: RR, DC nearing Sanju Samson–Tristan Stubbs swap as KKR push for KL Rahul

Shaheen’s fiery opening burst put South Africa on the backfoot in the series decider

Shaheen was close to completing a hat-trick when his third ball hit Dewald Brevis on the pads. There was a loud appeal from Pakistan as the umpire raised his finger but, after a review from South Africa, the ball tracking showed it would have gone over the stumps. Nevertheless, Shaheen’s over had taken its toll and the visitors were rattled, feeling the pressure from the outset.

Pakistan's bowlers kept it intense, with Salman Mirza and Faheem Ashraf bowling tight lines; so tight in fact, that at the end of the powerplay, South Africa only had put up 19/2. The body language on the field and the cheers of the Lahore crowd made it clear that Pakistan wanted to win this series.

It was only a 1-1 series and a vital match. Once again it was Shaheen Shah Afridi leading the way, ripping through Pakistan’s charge with an electric spell. It only took a bit of that fizz to remind everyone exactly why he is among the best in world cricket.

In what could be the first major trade before the IPL auction later this year, Sanju Samson and Tristan Stubbs are at the centre of a potential blockbuster swap between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Delhi Capitals (DC). Both franchises are reportedly close to finalising the deal, with discussions having reached an advanced stage.

Sources suggest Samson is keen on leaving the Royals, leading to RR exploring multiple trade options. DC, eager to strengthen their middle order with an experienced Indian batter, have been in talks for several weeks but were hesitant to release any of their core players.

Interestingly, KL Rahul’s name was also floated during discussions for a possible swap, but the Capitals were reluctant to part ways with one of their most consistent performers, who also carries significant brand value.

RR eye Stubbs, DC push for Samson as KKR step up KL Rahul pursuit ahead of IPL auction

RR, on their part, are excited about bringing Stubbs into their setup, impressed by his finishing abilities and explosive batting down the order. However, it is understood that the Royals wanted another uncapped Indian player to be included in the trade. DC, though, were unwilling to add more players to the deal. Despite minor hurdles, the Samson-to-DC and Stubbs-to-RR exchange now appears the most probable outcome, barring any last-minute changes.

ALSO SEE: [WATCH]: Rohit Sharma's old video with Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana viral ahead of IND W vs SA W Women's World Cup Final

It’s also learned that Rajasthan Royals had earlier reached out to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for a potential trade involving Ravindra Jadeja, but those talks failed to progress beyond initial discussions.

Meanwhile, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) are making headlines of their own as they continue to chase KL Rahul. With a new coach in Abhishek Nayar, known to share a strong rapport with Rahul, KKR are eager to secure a reliable captain and top-order batter. However, identifying a suitable trade piece remains a challenge.

While names like Andre Russell, Rinku Singh, and Varun Chakravarthy have been discussed, DC are reportedly looking to invest in younger, long-term assets. Venkatesh Iyer’s poor 2024 season makes him an unlikely trade option, and he could be released back into the auction pool.

If the Samson–Stubbs trade goes through, KKR may intensify their pursuit of Rahul, setting up an intriguing pre-auction period in IPL’s ever-dynamic trade window.

Less than 24 hours before the final of the ICC Women's ODI World Cup 2025, where the Indian Women's team will face the South African Women's team. Ahead of the final match, a video of Rohit Sharma went viral on social media. In this video, we can see Sharmatalking about his experience at the World Cup with Jemimah Rodrigues and Smriti Mandhana. 

Indian cricket fans have high hopes around Jemimah Rodrigues after his match-winning century against the powerful Australian bowling attack during the semifinal of the ongoing ODI World Cup. Smriti has also so far played a crucial role during the World Cup. 

The video shared on social media ahead of the Women's World Cup is not something new; it is an old conversation, which again proved its relevance among the cricket fans across social media platforms. In this video, we can see Shamra's emotions about winning the most prestigious ICC trophy. He recalled the moment when Team India performed well in ICC tournaments but did not get the desired results. 

Read More: 'Not going anywhere...'- IPL Chairman's bold statement on Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's future for World Cup 2027

Rohit Sharma shared his WC experience with Jemimah and Smriti

🚨 WOMEN WORLD CUP 25 🚨

Rohit Sharma has designed the plan & script to win the Women World Cup and sharing with Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues.

'Hitman' Rohit Sharma 🔥 🥵 @ImRo45 pic.twitter.com/Qd2lFkfiOi

— Hitman 🇮🇳 Lover 🇮🇳 (@ILoveYouJanu68) October 30, 2025

The 2023 World Cup could have been the most memorable account for the entire team India fans. The loss in the final turned all hope into disappointment. Rohit Sharma captained India in the 2023 ODI World Cup on home soil, guiding the team to a record-breaking unbeaten streak leading up to the final. Despite dominating the tournament, India lost to Australia in the title clash at Ahmedabad.

During the live interaction, Sharma said that it is better to lose matches during the initial stages of the tournament rather than have a heartbreaking loss in the summit clash. He also mentioned that both of the teams (women's and men's) should pray for success during the World Cup. 

A new winner of the ICC Women's Cricket World Cup will be crowned soon. Both teams have several match-winners. As India look to create history at home in Navi Mumbai, Laura Wolvaardt’s South Africa aim to go one step further and win their first ICC title. They want to end their streak of falling short in finals by defeating Harmanpreet Kaur’s team for the second time in this tournament.

Even though South Africa beat India in the league stage on October 9 in Vizag, India can still take confidence from their strong new-ball performance. They had reduced South Africa to 18/2 inside six overs and helped the spinners keep the Proteas down to 81/5.

Laura Wolvaardt watched from the non-striker’s end as Tazmin Brits (0), Sune Luus (5), Marizanne Kapp (20), and Anneke Bosch (1) got out early. But the South African captain found support in Chloe Tryon, adding 61 runs for a much-needed fightback that led to their eventual win.

Wolvaardt (470) is the top run-scorer of the tournament, while her opening partner Tazmin Brits has been inconsistent, failing to repeat her century performance against New Zealand in their second match.

Also Read -"It Was Something New for Me..": Abhishek Sharma Praises Australian Pacer After Intense Battle

Kranti Gaud’s Stunning Catch Turns the Game

Brits may consider herself a little unlucky with her dismissal against India in the league stage, though young star Kranti Gaud would disagree. Gaud forced a half-chance that turned into a brilliant one-handed return catch.

There are also some questions for South Africa, as key pacer Renuka Singh Thakur didn’t play in that earlier match.

Mandhana vs Kapp: The Battle of Experience and Class

The most successful wicket-taker in Women’s World Cup history will take the new ball against the No.1-ranked ODI batter — a dream battle for fans at the stadium and millions watching at home.

Marizanne Kapp enters the final with confidence after breaking the tournament record for most wickets, previously held by Jhulan Goswami. Kapp’s 5/20 against England in the semi-final included three top-order wickets.

Smriti Mandhana, on the other hand, made a run-a-ball 24 against Australia in the semi-final. She has already scored two fifties and a century on India’s road to the final and has been dismissed in single digits only once — in the opener against Sri Lanka on September 30.

In ODIs, Mandhana and Kapp share mutual respect. Kapp has dismissed Mandhana only once in 116 balls, though the Indian opener’s strike rate against her is just 62.

Rodrigues and Deepti Eye Redemption

Jemimah Rodrigues, India’s 25-year-old middle-order star, has been the talk of world cricket since her unbeaten 127 against Australia in the semi-final. But repeating that success in the final will be a new challenge.

Rodrigues will aim to make amends after being dismissed for a duck against South Africa in the group stage. A lot has changed in three weeks — Rodrigues was dropped, recalled, and fought hard to prove herself again. She may face a tough test from left-arm spinners Chloe Tryon and Nonkululeko Mlaba, especially as Tryon dismissed her earlier in the tournament.

Deepti Sharma also has a golden chance to finish as the top wicket-taker of the tournament. However, she faces her toughest test yet in the World Cup final.

Deepti took the early wicket of Anneke Bosch in the previous meeting but later conceded 54 runs for just one wicket. She is currently tied with Australian seamer Annabel Sutherland for the most wickets in the tournament.

De Klerk’s Firepower Could Decide the Final

Nadine de Klerk’s unbeaten 84 off 54 balls against India remains one of the tournament’s standout knocks. Her 13-boundary blitz helped South Africa pull off a stunning comeback win over the hosts.

With high scores expected in Navi Mumbai, de Klerk’s aggressive batting will again be crucial. However, India will have done their homework this time.

Harmanpreet Kaur and her team know that if South Africa builds a stronger start than last time, de Klerk’s big hitting could become a serious threat.

India batter Abhishek Sharma has already faced and beaten many top players in world cricket early in his career. He has quickly reached the top of the ICC T20I rankings and holds a record rating. Still, he couldn’t believe what he saw from fast bowler Josh Hazlewood in the second T20I against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday.

Hazlewood bowled four overs with the new ball, taking three wickets and giving away only 13 runs at an economy rate of 3.2. His spell caused India to collapse to 49/5 in eight overs. If not for Abhishek’s brilliant 68 runs off 37 balls, India wouldn’t have come close to their final score of 125 all out.

The left-hander faced Hazlewood for only four balls and scored six runs, which included a lucky boundary past the wicketkeeper.

Also Read -[WATCH] Rishabh Pant celebrates 50 during India A vs South Africa A 1st unofficial Test

Abhishek Sharma Praises Hazlewood’s Bowling Masterclass

“I was watching him in the ODIs too, so we knew he would challenge us,” Abhishek said in the post-match press conference after Australia chased down the target with four wickets in hand. “But the way he bowled today even surprised me. I haven’t seen something like this in T20s. It was something new for me as a batter who always wants to attack. But he had a plan, and he executed it perfectly,” he added.

Enjoying the Challenge

When asked if he was relieved that Hazlewood would not play the remaining matches to prepare for the 2025–26 Ashes, Abhishek smiled and said, “Oh, is he? I didn’t know that. But yes, he is good enough to play all formats. Still, I was enjoying this challenge because as a batter, you have to face world-class bowlers, and that’s what I was trying to do,” he added.

Watch the now-viral reaction here:

Abhishek Sharma got absolute donuts out of Travis Head, but his reaction to finding out Josh Hazlewood wasn't playing the rest of this series was priceless 😂 #AUSvIND pic.twitter.com/mMaz0fAnQN

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 31, 2025

Australia lead the series 1–0 after a washout in Canberra and a win in Melbourne. The third T20I will be played on Sunday in Hobart.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman, Jay Shah, is in Navi Mumbai and attended the second semifinal between India and Australia during the Women’s World Cup 2025 final at the DY Patil Sports Academy. The Blue Brigade completed a record run chase to earn victory and qualify for the final against South Africa on November 02 at the same venue.

Shah met the officials of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) on Saturday, November 01, where the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, Devajit Saikia, was also present in the meeting. CABI is organizing the program for the inaugural Women’s T20 World Cup- for the Blind 2025, which is set to begin on November 11 and end 12 days later.

See Also: [WATCH] Rishabh Pant celebrates 50 during India A vs South Africa A 1st unofficial Test

“Jay Shah was very positive about our cricket, and he and Saikia have promised to provide their full support. Shah told us that he will come for the trophy unveiling in Delhi, which will take place on November 9 or 10, and also try to attend the final, which will be held in Colombo on November 23.” Dr. Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, chairman of the CABI, expressed the Times of India (TOI).

Jay Shah to be present in Women’s T20 World Cup 2025 final for blind and unveil trophy 

The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will be played across New Delhi, Bengaluru, and Colombo from November 11 to 23, 2025. It will have six teams featuring Australia, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and the United States of America. The competition will start with the inauguration and four matches in New Delhi till November 13.

The action will later move to Bengaluru for the next four games from November 14 to 16, and will conclude with seven league fixtures, two semifinals, and the final, along with the closing ceremony in Colombo on November 23. On October 29 in Delhi, the CABI unveiled the official jersey of the Indian side for the World Cup.

Shah also met the IOC president to continue their discussions on the re-entry of cricket into the Olympic program for the 2028 edition. It will be making a comeback at the Olympics after 128 years.

Rishabh Pant returned to competitive cricket through the first of the two-match unofficial Test series against South Africa A, as he aims to keep himself fit for the upcoming two-match home red-ball series against the Proteas. The left-handed batter has been leading India A at the BCCI Center of Excellence in Bengaluru. 

Pant injured himself during the fourth Test of India's previous trip to the United Kingdom against England at Old Trafford in Manchester. The left-handed batter looked to reverse sweep Chris Woakes, whose ball hit the southpaw on the side of his foot. He was in serious pain at the point before managing his injury and came to bat on the very next day.

See Also: [WATCH] Rishabh Pant and India players wish women's side ahead of Women's World Cup 2025 final vs South Africa

This ongoing SA-A series saw Pant finding a good rhythm with the bat in the second innings. He started with his regular big shots around the park. With a boundary, slapped through the extra cover region, Pant celebrated his fine half-century and ended the third day’s play with an unbeaten 64 runs in 81 balls at a strike rate of 79, thanks to eight boundaries and a couple of sixes.

Watch: Rishabh Pant notches up 50 during IND-A vs SA-A unofficial Test in Bengaluru

Three half-centuries from Jordan Hermann, Zubayr Hamza, and Rubin Hermann shouldered the Proteas to 309 in the first innings after India’s captain decided to bowl first on a surface which provided a little help to the bowlers. Tiaan Van Vuuren nailed 46 runs while Tanush Kotian picked up four wickets in the first innings.

IND A - 32 /3
Tatget - 275

This is #RishabhPant for you 🔥🛐 pic.twitter.com/vvPErhHCTn

— Nani sai 🔱 (@alwaysnanisai2) November 1, 2025

India couldn’t put in a great performance with the bat in their first innings. Apart from Ayush Mhatre’s 65 runs in 76 balls, thanks to 10 boundaries at 85.53, none of the batters were able to celebrate their respective fifties in the innings, despite getting valuable starts with the bat. They got bundled out for 234.

South Africa couldn’t use the advantage of a decent lead and were blown away for 199 in the second innings. Kotian bagged another four-wicket haul in the second innings. Going into the fourth and final day of the clash, India A need 156 runs with six wickets in hand.

Sunidhi Chauhan, an Indian singing icon, will perform during the mid-innings show of the ICC Women's World Cup 2025 final between India and South Africa on Sunday, November 2, at the Dr. DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. The final is expected to be an unforgettable celebration of cricket and entertainment as one of the most versatile singers takes center stage.

The evening of cricketing glory will begin with Sunidhi Chauhan rendering the Indian national anthem, while Tarynn Bank from Cape Town will lend her voice to the South African anthem. At the mid-innings break, spectators will be treated to a laser spectacle, drone formations, and a 350-member mass-cast performance, all leading up to Chauhan’s high-energy concert.

Sunidhi will perform a medley of her popular songs, accompanied by 60 dancers and fireworks effects, designed by famous choreographer Sanjay Shetty. The performance aims to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for fans as India aims for glory on home soil.

Sunidhi’s Excitement Ahead of the Big Stage

Expressing her excitement, Sunidhi said she was honored to be part of such a historic event. “It’s an honor to be performing at the Women’s World Cup, and I am really looking forward to the big day. With India in the final and the stands packed with enthusiastic fans, I’m sure the atmosphere will be electric, and it will be a day all of us will remember for long,” she shared.

See Also: WATCH: Umpire cheating in broad daylight! Fielding team left stunned

At just 13 years old, Sunidhi burst onto the Indian music scene with her hit song Ruki Ruki Si Zindagi from Mast, marking the start of an extraordinary career. Over the years, she has sold over 50 million records worldwide, judged major reality shows like The Voice India and Indian Idol, and even opened for Coldplay in New York in 2015. Featured four times in Forbes India’s Celebrity 100 list, Sunidhi continues to be one of the most powerful voices in Indian music.

Now on the burning topic of Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma's retirement, Chairman of the Indian Premier League (IPL) Arun Dhumal has made some bold comments. Dhumal strongly believes that Ro-Ko is not going to retire soon from international cricket. 

With the ongoing tour away series against Australia, Rohit and Virat both made a comeback in the blue kit. Almost after a gap of 5 months, it was their first international match, as they had already retired from Test and T20Is. The 3-match Australia vs India ODI series was a special event for the entire cricket committee, mainly for the return of these two stars. In the first match of the series, both the batters proved ineffective. Virat got two back-to-back ducks in the competition, which was extremely rare in his illustrious career. But in the third and the last match of the ODI series, Sharma and Kohli showed they still can play at the highest level under pressure. 'Hitman' slammed an unbeaten 121*, while Virat made a rock-solid 74*. 

After the mesmerizing batting display, a part of the cricket fan strongly believes that the end of 'Ro-Ko' is coming soon. Though, neither from their end nor from the BCCI's end was there any information about the retirements of Virat and Rohit. Fans are also curious to know whether they will play in the 2027 World Cup. 

Read More: [WATCH] Rishabh Pant and India players wish women's side ahead of Women's World Cup 2025 final vs South Africa

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retiring soon?

"And then you have these greats like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who people think are going, but they are not going. They are here to stay. And the way Rohit has shown his class in this ODI series, at that age, coming as player of the match in the final match and then player of the series, that shows the kind of conviction that they carry, the kind of hard work that they put in," Dhumal commented on the future of 'Ro-Ko.'

"When it comes to Team India, they will want to give it their best. And that is the true reflection of a sportsman. And my best wishes to both of them. They have done wonderfully. They have given their life to Indian cricket."

The Indian-A side, under the leadership of Rishabh Pant, is featuring in the first of the two-match unofficial series against South Africa at the BCCI Center of Ground in Bengaluru. But the focus, along with crores of fans and the players, will be on the upcoming final of the Women’s World Cup 2025 on November 02 at the DY Patil Sports Academy.

Indian women, under the captaincy of Captain Harmanpreet Kaur, qualified for the final after beating Australia in the second semifinal, riding on the fine unbeaten century by Jemimah Rodrigues.

The Proteas will now come into the final after winning the first semifinal against England at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, on the back of two special performances of all-rounder Marizanne Kapp and Laura Wolvaardt.

See Also: "Our stand remains clear..."- BCCI secretary gives update on India receiving Asia Cup 2025 trophy

“All the best to the Indian women’s cricket team. I know you guys have been through a lot of ups and downs during the whole World Cup. But you guys have come out with flying colors all the time. Let’s get the World Cup home, and the whole of India is watching you, cheering for you. Let’s do it for the country. All the best.” Rishabh Pant expressed during an interaction on Star Sports.

Watch Now: GO WIN IT! Rishabh Pant's Message to Harmanpreet & Women's Team Ahead of SA Final

India women started the Women’s World Cup 2025 campaign with two consecutive victories against Sri Lanka in Guwahati before earning another victory against Pakistan. But they faced three successive defeats against the Proteas, England, and Australia.

True definition of 𝙅𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙚𝙮 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙝 𝙅𝙖𝙯𝙗𝙖𝙖 𝙗𝙝𝙞 𝙨𝙖𝙢𝙚! 💙

The Men in Blue pour in their wishes for the Women in Blue to bring the World Cup home! 🙌🇮🇳

WATCH #CWC25 FINAL 👉 IND 🆚 SA | SUN, NOV 2, 2 PM on Star Sports Network & JioHotstar pic.twitter.com/vQduf7uLfM

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) November 1, 2025

“Come on, India!! Let’s do this.” Devdutt Padikkal congratulated the Blue Brigade before Rajat Patidar joined them in the conversation, “You guys have been very inspiring and a great treat to watch every single time. You guys go out there. All the best, India; make India proud and create history. It’s a chance to create history, and let’s win the World Cup at home.”

But the 53-run win against New Zealand was enough for the Blue Brigade to secure the tickets for the semifinal. Their win over Australia by five wickets in the semifinal will be a massive confidence booster ahead of the final.

PAK vs SA 3rd T20I Match Preview:

Pakistan and South Africa will once again face each other in the final and decisive match of this T20 series. The visitors won the first match of the series, but in the next game, the hosts made a strong comeback by defeating South Africa and levelling the series 1-1.

In the previous encounter, Pakistan defeated South Africa by 9 wickets. Batting first, South Africa were bowled out for just 110 runs, setting a modest target of 111 for Pakistan. In reply, Pakistan comfortably chased down the target, losing only one wicket. Saim Ayub played an aggressive inning of 71 runs in just 38 balls, while Salman Mirza was awarded Man of the Match for his excellent bowling performance. Today's decisive match is expected to be very exciting, as both teams will take the field to win the trophy.

PAK vs SA Recent Performance:

PAK vs SA South Africa of Pakistan, 2025 Match Details:

• Series/Tournament: South Africa tour of Pakistan, 2025
• Match: PAK vs SA Match 3rd T20I
• Date: 1 Nov. 2025
• Match Start Time: 08:30 PM IST
• Stadium/Venue: Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Pakistan
• Live Score: cricketwinner.com
• Live Streaming: Fan Code app.

PAK vs SA Head-to-Head Stats:

(Last 10 Matches)

PAK vs SA Pitch & Weather Report:

The weather report for the series decider is good. The temperature is expected to reach around 30.8. Based on previous stats, the average score at this venue ranges between 160 and 180 runs. The pitch offers good assistance to batters and  pacers, suggesting a high-scoring encounter

Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Pakistan, stats: 

Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, Pakistan, the pitch is balanced and provides equal opportunities to both batsmen and bowlers. Winning the toss and opting to bat first will be a wise decision on this surface.      

PAK vs SA Dream11 Prediction Playing 11

Pakistan (PAK) Probable 11:

Sahibzada Farhan, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Agha Salman(C), 5. Usman Khan-Shinwari(WK), 6. Hasan Nawaz, 7. Mohammad Nawaz, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Salman Mirza, 10. Naseem Shah, 11. Abrar Ahmed

South Africa (SA) Probable 11:

Sahibzada Farhan, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Agha Salman(C), 5. Usman Khan-Shinwari(WK), 6. Hasan Nawaz, 7. Mohammad Nawaz, 8. Faheem Ashraf, 9. Salman Mirza, 10. Naseem Shah, 11. Abrar Ahmed

PAK vs SA- Top Picks from Pakistan

PAK vs SA- Top Picks from South Africa

Cricket Winner Player’s Insight:

Saim Ayub (PAK) is currently the leading run-scorer in the series. He can also contribute with the ball and has taken 2 wickets so far.

Mohammad Nawaz (SA) is an impactful all-rounder from Pakistan. So far, he has scored 36 runs and taken 3 wickets. 

Reeza Hendricks (SA) opens the innings for the SA team and is currently the highest run-scorer for South Africa. 

George Linde (SA) is a good option; the all-rounder has scored 45 runs and taken three wickets in the series so far.

PAK vs SA Captain & Vice-Captain Choices:

PAK vs SA Fantasy Team Suggestion:  

PAK vs SA Dream11 Prediction Expert Advice: 

PAK vs SA Dream11 Prediction Probable Winners:

PAK is expected to win this match. Pakistan won the previous game with relative ease. They dominated South Africa in all departments, which boosted their confidence. However, their middle-order performance is a major concern for them.

PAK vs SA 3rd T20I FAQ

Umpire cheating under broad daylight? A video shared by Richard Kettleborough from his social media account 'X.'. Though, the question is in a playful manner. The caption of the post makes the video more fun to watch. 

It is a clip from a cricket match of a group of school students. Some young boys were enjoying a match under a sunny day in the Whites. There is no clear detail about the game. The only thing the viewers can get after watching the video is a pure smile on their face. 

The caption of the video reads, "Cheating by the umpire in broad daylight! It was a plumb LBW, but the umpire seems to have some other plan. Look at the reaction of Bowler and other players. A must-watch video." 

Read More: WATCH: Shubman Gill's heartwarming gesture towards Abhishek Sharma's parents ahead of AUS vs IND 3rd T20I

Did the umpire make wrong call?

🚨 CHEATER UMPIRE 🚨

- Cheating by the umpire in broad daylight! It was a plumb LBW, but the umpire seems to have some other plan 😂

- Look at the reaction of Bowler and other players 😅

- A must watch video 😄 pic.twitter.com/DyBX1RkYd8

— Richard Kettleborough (@RichKettle07) November 1, 2025

Actually, the bowler in the video delivered a full-length video, which lashed on the pads of the right-handed batter. The batter went to play a sweep show but missed it completely. The foot of the batter was right in front of the stumps and the ball, which was fuller, landed directly on the pad. From the video it seems like a clear LBW. But the umpire, who also was a young boy, denied the sought from the fielding team. 

After the decision by the umpire, the reactions from the bowler and the fielders were also unmatchable. They couldn't believe that that was not an LBW. May be it was a clear LBW; that's why Kettleborough wrote in a funny way, "Cheating by the umpire in broad daylight!" The umpire's decision is undoubtedly debatable, but without any doubts, this video is definitely worth being viral on social media platforms. 

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary, Devajit Saikia, has dropped a massive update on them receiving the Asia Cup 2025 trophy from ACC chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, who is also the interior minister of Pakistan. Naqvi didn’t give the trophy to the Suryakumar Yadav-led side after they refused to collect it from his hands.

The entire Asia Cup 2025 has seen several controversies regarding the India vs Pakistan clashes due to the Pahalgam terror attack in the middle of the year. India’s captain didn’t shake hands at the toss, and the trend continued even after earning victory in the fixtures till the final.

See Also: "Kind of seeds..."- Arshdeep Singh makes cryptic post AUS vs IND 2nd T20 in MCG

"Yes, we are a little bit unhappy with the way the trophy has not been given to us, even after a month. We are pursuing this matter. About 10 days ago, we also wrote a letter to the chairman of ACC, but there is no change in their stand. They are still keeping the trophy under their custody, but we hope that the trophy will reach us in a day or two at the BCCI office in Mumbai.” Devajit Saikia told the PTI videos.

Devajit Saikia updates on when India will receive their Asia Cup 2025 trophy

Saikia mentioned that if the trophy is not handed over to the BCCI soon, then they would take the issue to the International Cricket Council (ICC) in the upcoming meeting, which is scheduled to take place on November 04 in Dubai.

“On behalf of BCCI, we are fully prepared for how to deal with the matter, and I can assure the people of India that the trophy will come back to India; only the timeline is not fixed. One day it will come. We have won all matches against Pakistan and won the trophy. We have won the championship. Everything is on record. Only the trophy is missing.” Saikia addressed.

The presentation ceremony took place in the final, but the Indian team didn’t receive the trophy from Naqvi. They were seen celebrating without the title on the stage at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium.

Team India has already reached Hobart to play the third T20I match of the ongoing 5-match T20I series against Australia (AUS vs IND 3rd T20I). During this time, Shubham Gill was spotted with Abhishek Sharma's parents. Gill's gesture towards his teammate's mother and father steals the hearts of the netizens. 

During the tour, Shubman Gill's bond with the young opener Abhishek Sharma was captured on camera again and again. These two cricketers shared some heartfelt moments on camera multiple times, depicting their close bonds with each other. In this video, we can see how the captain of Team India's Test and ODI setup hugged Sharma's mother and father, who are also in Australia. 

Abhishek Sharma has been in tremendous form since the beginning of the Asia Cup 2025. He carries the same intensity in the ongoing T20I series as well against the tough competitors. In the previous game at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, when most of the Indian batting line-up struggled against the Josh Hazlewood-led Australian bowling attack, Sharma remained firm on the pitch and delivered a solid 68-run knock. 

Read More: 3 reasons why RCB should retain Romario Shepherd for IPL 2026

Shubman Gill's showed heartfelt gesture towards Abhishek Sharma's parents

The manner in which Shubman Gill greeted Abhishek Sharma’s mom and dad reflected his love and respect for them ❤️ pic.twitter.com/F3QCMeqltG

— GillTheWill (@GillTheWill77) November 1, 2025

He was looking as well during the initial stage of the first match of the competition. Though the match was abandoned due to continuous rain. 

The upcoming match in Hobart is very crucial for India. They will definitely try to win the match to level the scoreline. Indian cricket fans will have high hopes around the emerging opener during this match as well. Former international cricketers were also amazed to see the way Sharma tackled the bowlers in the previous match. To secure a win, Gill must find his scoring bat. As of now, his performance is not up to the mark. But on and off the field, Gill as a leader has stood to attract the cricket fans' eyes. 

It was a baffling decision from the Indian management to leave out their most successful T20I bowler, left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh, from the last couple of T20I games of the five-match series against Australia in Canberra and Melbourne. The veteran has been exceptional for the Blue Brigade in the recent few T20Is, but still missed so many games due to a combination of factors. 

India, under coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Suryakumar Yadav, decided to go with Harshit Rana as the second pacer with premier Jasprit Bumrah. Rana batted at number seven in the game while the team’s decision of keeping three spinners- Varun Chakravarthy, Kuldeep Yadav, and Axar Patel- pushed Arshdeep Singh out of the eleven.

See Also: Abhishek Sharma to debut in Tests? Former Indian spinner reveals Brian Lara’s advice to southpaw

“Whatever kind of seeds you plant (your actions), you will harvest the same (results).” The Punjab-born posted an Instagram story the day after their defeat against the Mitchell Marsh-led side in Melbourne. Rana, who even though scored 35 runs in 33 balls with the bat, leaked 27 runs in two overs without any success.

Arshdeep Singh targets Indian management on Instagram story

Arshdeep is the highest wicket-taker of the Indian cricket team. The left-arm fast bowler has bagged 101 wickets in 65 innings at an average of below 19, a strike rate of under 14, and an economy rate of 8.37, thanks to two four-wicket hauls with the best bowling figure of 4/9 in an inning.

Arshdeep Singh cooked Gautam Gambhir with his Instagram story.😭🔥 pic.twitter.com/xyC0deVtL7

— Rohan💫 (@rohann__45) November 1, 2025

Overall, the 26-year-old has collected 230 wickets in 174 innings in T20 cricket at an average of 22.70 and a strike rate of 15.90 with an economy rate of 8.52, thanks to five four-wicket hauls and the best bowling figure of 5/32 in an inning. Singh has bagged 97 wickets in 81 innings of IPL at an average of 26.49, a strike rate of 17.6, and an economy rate of nearly nine.

India lost the second T20I clash by four wickets as the home side completed the chase of 126 runs in 13.2 overs. The third encounter will take place on October 02 at the Bellerive Oval in Hobart.

In a significant development, Australia's genius opener Travis Head is said to be missing the last two T20Is against India to prepare for the forthcoming Ashes series. The decision comes as part of Cricket Australia’s strategy to prioritize red-ball cricket ahead of the marquee Test series against England. Head’s withdrawal would follow that of Josh Hazlewood, who has already opted out of the 4th and 5th T20Is.

According to a report by CodeSports, the Ashes is less than a month away, and Australian players are keen to begin early preparations. England’s tour of Australia for the five-match Test series starts on November 21, and several senior players have started adjusting their workloads accordingly. With Head unavailable, Matthew Short is expected to move up the order and open alongside captain Mitchell Marsh in the remaining T20Is.

Head’s current form might have also influenced the decision, as the left-hander has managed only 93 runs in four innings across formats on the ongoing tour of India. In contrast, Short has been in impressive touch, scoring 112 runs in three ODI innings, though he was dismissed for a golden duck in the first T20I.

Cricket Australia Focus Shifts to Ashes Preparations

Cricket Australia is concentrating on the Ashes with both players and staff structuring their timing around the focal event. Head’s decision is similar to Hazlewood’s previous decision in signalling that the team wants to prioritize Test match readiness. Coach Andrew McDonald had also left the camp after the first ODI to begin Ashes planning, holding discussions with Steve Smith and Pat Cummins.

See Also: 'He Should Have Continued with Same...' - Former India all-rounder questions Abhishek Sharma’s approach in 2nd T20I vs Australia

England too appears to be taking a similar approach, with Jofra Archer being rested from the first ODI against New Zealand as part of workload management. Both teams are now looking to balance T20 commitments with red-ball preparation as the prestigious Ashes series draws closer.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan questioned Abhishek Sharma’s intent and awareness during the second T20I against Australia at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) on Friday, October 31. Pathan acknowledged that Abhishek batted brilliantly during the powerplay but felt the youngster failed to maintain the same tempo once the field restrictions were lifted.

After Australian skipper Mitchell Marsh opted to bowl first, India had a rough start, losing four wickets inside the powerplay. Five of the top six batters were dismissed for single-digit scores. However, Abhishek stood firm, scoring freely and keeping India’s innings alive. Harshit Rana was promoted up the order and added a valuable 56-run stand with the left-hander. Despite this partnership, Abhishek hardly faced the strike, just 13 balls during their 47-ball partnership. India got bowled out for 125, in 18.4 overs, with Abhishek top scoring with 68 runs in 37 balls with eight fours and two sixes. Australia easily chased the target in 13.2 overs with a final score of four wickets.

Pathan praised Abhishek’s half-century but pointed out where he could have shown better game sense. “Abhishek Sharma once again showed that while everyone else seemed to be batting on one pitch, he was batting on another. It was a brilliant half-century, a superb innings, but if you look closely, you’ll notice it had two parts. During the powerplay, he batted beautifully, but after it ended, he should have continued with the same intent and awareness, which he didn’t,” Pathan said on his YouTube channel.

Pathan Urges Abhishek to Show Better Game Awareness

Pathan further explained that Abhishek needed to take charge during his partnership with Harshit Rana and ensure he faced more deliveries. “Harshit did his job. He ensured the team didn’t lose another wicket and managed a decent 35-run knock. As a lower-order batter, that’s all you can ask for. You can talk about strike rate later, but he did what was required. Now, what was Abhishek Sharma’s responsibility there? The powerplay went well, he played freely, and even when wickets fell around him, he stayed composed. But during that stand, most of the strike went to Harshit Rana, Abhishek faced only 14 balls out of 47. That’s where he needed to take charge. No doubt he’s India’s No. 1 T20 batter at the moment, but he must show better game awareness,” Pathan added.

See Also: 'I’m Fully Recovered' - Rishabh Pant shares major fitness update ahead of South Africa Test series

The former all-rounder’s comments highlight that while Abhishek’s form and confidence are impressive, maintaining intent beyond the powerplay will be key for India’s batting depth and success in upcoming matches.

In a significant development for Indian cricket, Rishabh Pant has stated that he is completely fit and 'ready to go' in time for the Test series against South Africa in mid-November. Pant, who was out of action for a few months due to a serious fracture to his foot he sustained in July during the Test series between England and India, made the announcement in an interview with the BCCI at the Centre of Excellence (CoE).

Currently leading the India A team in the unofficial Test series against South Africa A, Pant opened up about his rehabilitation journey from the painful yorker injury he suffered in Manchester. He expressed heartfelt gratitude to the CoE staff who supported him throughout his recovery.

“I started my rehab gradually. In the early days, there was a lot of physiotherapy and careful monitoring. Once I regained some mobility, I began focusing on building strength, which marked the start of the second phase. Right now, I’m happy to say that I’m fully recovered, and I owe a big thanks to the CoE staff for helping me through it,” Pant said.

Pant Shares Positivity and Focus During Recovery

Known for his resilience after surviving a life-threatening car accident in 2022, Pant shared how staying positive played a big role in his recovery journey. “Being positive is really a mindset thing. During an injury, it’s easy to lose motivation. Your energy levels drop and frustration builds up. But if you can find small things that make you feel good, it’s important to hold onto them, especially when you’re going through that period,” he explained.

See Also: WATCH: Team India cricketers jam with Diljit Dosanjh amid AUS vs IND T20Is

Pant’s return to the field, however, didn’t start with fireworks. In the first innings of the unofficial Test, he scored 17 runs off 20 balls before being dismissed by South African pacer Okuhle Cele. Still, his comeback is a massive boost for India’s Test side, which drew the England series 2-2 under Shubman Gill’s captaincy. With Pant’s experience and presence behind the stumps, India will have greater balance ahead of the two-match home series against South Africa, starting November 14 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. The final squad announcement is expected soon.