Veteran Indian batsman Virat Kohli was seen practicing in an intense batting session ahead of the second ODI of the three-match series against Australia. The match is to be played on Thursday, October 23, at the Adelaide Oval in Adelaide. Kohli hopes to resurrect himself after a disappointing performance in the series' first match, when he got out for a duck off eight balls by Mitchell Starc in Perth on Sunday, October 19.

India suffered a disappointing day in the first ODI as they lost the game by seven wickets according to the DLS method. With the team looking to get back on track in the second ODI, Kohli was seen perfecting his game in the nets, displaying keenness to play a key role in the next match.

Even though the team suffered a recent loss, Kohli has a brilliant ODI record against Australia. He has scored 2,451 runs in 49 innings at an average of 53.28 and a strike rate of 93.40, including 15 fifties and eight centuries, making him one of India’s most reliable performers against the Aussies.

Ashwin on Rohit and Kohli’s Form

Both returning ace batters, Rohit Sharma (8) and Virat Kohli (0), struggled in India’s opening ODI against Australia. Legendary spinner Ravichandran Ashwin shared his thoughts on their form on his YouTube channel: "For their good, I think they can focus a bit more on preparation, especially in terms of playing games before going on tours, but that is not entirely in the hands of players, it needs to be planned by the team management. This is too early to talk about Virat and Rohit, because there are a few more games. My only worry for them is can they get more game time?"

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Virat Kohli in the nets at the Adelaide Oval. pic.twitter.com/RuilGIZUZ2

— Mufaddal Vohra (@mufaddal_vohra) October 21, 2025

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Ashwin added, "It is not going to be easy for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. I really hope they get some kind of flow, because they have not played any cricket recently. If you are going on an international tour, planning is necessary. We have often travelled overseas 10-15 days before the series begins, travelled in 2-3 batches, so that definitely can be done." Rohit and Kohli have retired from Tests and T20Is and now represent India only in ODIs at the international level.

Former India player and commentator Navjot Singh Sidhu turned 62 on October 20, and wishes poured in from all corners of the cricketing world. Among them, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan sent a special post wishing Sidhu on social media, saying he had great admiration and love for the veteran. Sidhu, being himself, shot back with a tearful note that quickly went viral.

The two cricket commentators have been loved by fans for their entertaining commentary and friendly banter. Sidhu and Pathan have made audiences laugh, think, and appreciate cricket in a different way. No matter how controversial or critical of the crew they are, they impressed fans with their charm and deep understanding of the game.

Posting his birthday wish on X (formerly Twitter), Pathan said, "Subah Jalandhar sham ko Delhi Nahi. Shamko mere Ghar pe apka birthday sath me. @sherryontopp Paaji wishing you the best birthday. Have a great one."

Sidhu's Heartwarming Reply Wins Fans Over

Sidhu, a person with a poetic spirit and a positive vibe, responded with love, saying, "Zaroor Irfan, tum No.1 commentator ho aur No.1 insaan ho. Your wishes are my armour... truckloads of love." His emotional words reflected the deep mutual respect between the two. Pathan later replied, “Apka pyaar hamesha bana rahe,” showing the bond they share both on and off the field.

Zaroor Irfan , tum no 1 commentator ho aur no 1 insaan ho …. Your wishes are my armour … truckloads of love 🥰

— Navjot Singh Sidhu (@sherryontopp) October 20, 2025

See Also: 'Pyar Aur Roshni Se Bhari Ye Diwali' – Shikhar Dhawan and girlfriend Sophie Shine celebrate diwali together

Navjot Singh Sidhu played for India between 1983 and 1999, appearing in 51 Tests and 156 ODIs and scoring 3202 and 4413 runs, respectively. Irfan Pathan, however, appeared in 29 Tests, 120 ODIs, and 24 T20Is and scored 2821 runs and took 301 wickets overall. Despite being from different eras of cricket, their friendship as Indian Premier League as well as international cricket commentary is still making fans around the world happy.

Cricket is all set to make its first-ever appearance at the 2026 South American Games, marking a major milestone in the sport’s global expansion. According to sources with direct knowledge of the development, the sport will feature as part of the 13th edition of the Games, to be held from September 12 to 26, 2026, across the Argentinian cities of Rosario, Santa Fe, and Rafaela.

This inclusion follows the announcement earlier this year confirming cricket’s entry into the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru. Together, these moves represent a strategic step in strengthening cricket’s presence across the Americas.

Cricket’s Growing Footprint in the Americas

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has been working steadily to grow the game beyond its traditional strongholds. William Glenwright, ICC’s Head of Global Development, had earlier outlined the vision to increase cricket’s legitimacy by featuring in more continental multi-sport events.

Cricket West Indies, the only Full Member in the region, has been proactive in supporting this growth. The board has expressed its intent to form La Federación de Críquet de las Américas (FECA), a proposed regional body aimed at uniting and coordinating cricket development efforts across North, Central, and South America.

About the South American Games

The South American Games began in 1978 as an eight-nation event in La Paz, Bolivia. Since then, it has expanded to include 15 countries from across the continent.

Over the decades, major sports such as football, baseball, basketball, and tennis have remained core parts of the Games. More recently, field hockey and rugby sevens joined the program in 2006 and 2014 respectively. Cricket’s inclusion marks another significant evolution for the event and underlines the sport’s growing appeal across Latin America.

ALSO SEE: [WATCH] Shahid Afridi reacts to Afghanistan’s decision to boycott tri-series against Pakistan post cross-border tension

Venue and Format

While official details about the format, number of teams, and venues are yet to be confirmed, Argentina, one of the region’s oldest cricketing nations, is expected to play a central role in hosting. Buenos Aires already has a few established cricket grounds, and reports suggest that existing facilities may be renovated or new ovals built in Rosario, Santa Fe, and Rafaela.

A Return to Argentina’s Cricketing Legacy

Cricket’s arrival at the 2026 Games also brings attention to Argentina’s rich but often forgotten cricketing history. The nation was once among the strongest non-Test-playing teams in the early 1900s. In 1912, Argentina famously defeated the visiting Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC), showcasing their early promise in the sport.

The 2026 event, therefore, represents not just a modern sporting milestone, but also a symbolic return to cricket’s historic roots in South America.

Looking Ahead to Lima 2027 and LA 2028

Cricket’s appearance at the South American Games is part of a larger trajectory leading up to two major events, the 2027 Pan American Games in Lima, Peru, and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles, where cricket will make its Olympic debut.

With these inclusions, cricket will now feature across almost all major continental Games, a clear indicator of its global resurgence.

A Growing Global Movement

The ICC’s commitment, along with support from regional boards like Cricket West Indies and national associations in Argentina, Brazil, and Chile, is paving the way for a new cricketing landscape in the Americas.

From grassroots initiatives to continental events, the sport is set to gain unprecedented visibility and participation. As preparations for the 2026 South American Games progress, the excitement among fans and federations continues to grow.

Cricket’s journey from traditional Commonwealth strongholds to new territories in Latin America marks one of the most exciting chapters in the sport’s global story. Cricket will officially make its debut at the 2026 South American Games in Argentina, a landmark step toward truly global recognition.

Very good news for cricket fans and gamers. Cricket 26 to get more updates; it will be more realistic than its previous editions. Recently an update about the game's possible update has arrived. 

According to media reports, the popular virtual cricket game is all set to get on a new level. The company provides some stunning graphics updates and details in the upcoming version of the game to enhance the user's experience. There are multiple games for football, like the EA Sports FC edition, PES, and many more. But in cricket, Big Ant keeps their hold tight on the market. But demands for better graphics from the cricket fans who love to spend some time on gaming consoles are nothing new. Over the years the game has changed a lot and can be better. 

According to the latest reports, Big Ant CEO Ross Symons has confirmed that Cricket 26 will feature a complete player model redesign along with next-gen visuals, improved realism, and sharper details to include in the game. If the claims prove real, then it will be a great experience for the users. 

Read More: [WATCH] 'Kya hal hay bhai...'- Players greetings each-other before leaving India for IND vs AUS series

Cricket 26 to get more better 

On October 9, 2025, Nacon and Big Ant Studios announced today that Cricket 26, the latest entry in its acclaimed cricket franchise, will be available on November 20, 2025. 

"We’ve worked tirelessly with Cricket Australia and the ECB to ensure fans around the world can relive one of sport’s greatest contests in the most authentic and dramatic way possible. Step up to a whole new level of control with enhanced batting mechanics—this is the most complete cricket experience we’ve ever created," Ross Symons, CEO of Big Ant Studios, said. 

Last month, USA Cricket experienced a very serious blow when the ICC suspended them for numerous and continued breaches of membership obligations under the ICC's constitution. USA Cricket calls the suspension one of the most difficult moments in its history, emphasizing the disappointment such an event has caused throughout the expanding cricket community in the United States.

The suspension followed a detailed ICC review of USA Cricket’s operations, along with consultations with multiple stakeholders over the past year. On October 11, USA Cricket broke their silence through an official statement addressing the matter. “The recent suspension of USA Cricket by the International Cricket Council has been one of the most difficult moments in our history. It has caused uncertainty and disappointment for players, members, volunteers, and supporters. Yet this moment must not be mistaken for dysfunction. It is the result of difficult but necessary decisions taken to protect the game, the organisation, and the future of cricket in the United States,” the statement read.

Previously, USA Cricket had been warned during the ICC's 2024 Annual General Meeting for failing to meet membership compliance requirements. The organisation’s inability to conduct free and fair elections ultimately led to the suspension, though the ICC confirmed that USA’s national teams will still be allowed to participate in ICC events, including preparations for cricket’s inclusion in the LA 2028 Olympic Games.

ICC Oversight and Path to Reinstatement

An ICC Normalisation Committee has now been appointed to reduce the requirements for USA Cricket to reacquire membership. This process will require verifiable and specific reforms in governance, operations and management, and reinstatement will be subject to full compliance.

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At the same time, the USA’s national teams will continue to operate under the oversight of the ICC, and representatives will oversee their operations to ensure operations continue to run smoothly. Despite the suspension, the event will continue to receive ICC support to ensure participation in international events as reforms are implemented by the event to improve cricket's administration in the United States.

WWE superstar Roman Reigns uses a cricket bat in wrestling at WWE Crown Jewel 2025, taking place at the RAC Arena in Perth, Australia. The Tribal Chief went up against Bronson Reed of Adelaide, who is referred to as "AusZilla," in a match that had everyone in suspense. During the fight, Reigns suddenly picked up a cricket bat and hit Reed, leaving the crowd stunned and excited. Commentator Wade Barrett compared Reigns to Australia’s cricket greats Ricky Ponting and Steve Smith for his powerful shots.

The WWE event came just before the much-awaited Ashes 2025–26 series between Australia and England. The series will start in Perth from November 21 to 25, followed by Tests in Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, and Sydney. With cricket season around the corner, Roman Reigns’ use of a cricket bat in the ring perfectly matched the country’s cricket fever and gave fans a moment to remember.

The Crown Jewel show had a packed lineup with legendary matches. John Cena and AJ Styles faced each other one last time in their famous rivalry. Cody Rhodes and Seth Rollins clashed in a champion vs. champion match, while Tiffany Stratton took on Stephanie Vaquer in a women’s title fight. But the most talked-about match was between Reigns and Reed because of the unexpected cricket twist.

Reigns’ Cricket Moment Lights Up Perth

During the fight, Reigns used the bat to knock Bronson Reed out of the ring. Wade Barrett shouted, “He’s like Steve Smith out here!” making the crowd roar with laughter and cheers. Even with his strong performance, Reigns couldn’t win, as Reed pinned him for the biggest victory of his career.

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Meanwhile, cricket fans also heard from recently retired England pacer Chris Woakes, who spoke about the upcoming Ashes. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, "Going to Australia is a different beast. I'm hoping the guys can go and do a good job and we've got a great chance this time. We have great depth and a great squad. The lads in the first XI, if they can stay fit and on the field we have a hell of a chance. Ashes cricket is played with more venom behind it but these players have played a lot of international cricket and enough to know what it's about.

"We have been building nicely over the last few years but not quite got over the line in the big series, but it doesn't get any bigger than this. We are due a competitive performance down under and these guys have got that in the locker."

In a significant development for Pakistan cricket, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has released its own online streaming service, PCB Live, providing fans of Pakistani cricket exclusive content. The digital service is designed to upgrade the way cricket fans watch the sport and will feature live broadcasts, highlights, and future behind-the-scenes access. This digital product will first be available in the United Kingdom, with fans in the UK being able to register beginning Saturday, October 11, 2025.

The service will go live with the Pakistan vs South Africa Test match on October 12, 2025. First accessible via its official website for desktop and Android TV viewers, the PCB Live mobile app is also being developed and set to go live by the end of October. Upon going live, it will enable fans to stream matches at their fingertips on their mobile phones, further enhancing accessibility for the increasing global fan community.

Apart from live overseas matches, PCB Live will also broadcast a number of Pakistan's domestic competitions and feature legendary cricket moments from the history of the nation. According to the PCB’s official website, subscribers will gain access to exclusive interviews, documentaries, training sessions, and unseen content from behind the scenes, offering a closer look at players and preparations like never before.

A New Era of Digital Engagement for Pakistan Cricket

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi described the launch as a “momentous milestone” for Pakistan cricket. “This is a momentous milestone in the journey of Pakistan cricket. We are proud to launch our own OTT platform in an era where digital convenience shapes the fan experience. This initiative reflects our commitment to forward-thinking and innovation,” Naqvi said.

See Also: Why Suryakumar Yadav and Shreyas Iyer are not included in Mumbai’s Ranji squad: Explained

Naqvi further emphasized that the platform is designed not only for fans in Pakistan but for supporters across the globe. “While PCB LIVE is launching from the UK region, we will gradually expand its footprint to other regions to ensure that our fans, wherever they may be, stay connected to the game they love. Whether it’s iconic memories from the past or thrilling live action from today, this platform will bring Pakistan cricket directly into the hands of our passionate supporters,” he added.

Following this exciting digital development, Pakistan’s cricketing journey continues with a two-match Test series against South Africa, followed by a three-match T20I series, both of which will be available for streaming on PCB Live.

The Lanka Premier League (LPL) is Sri Lanka's top Twenty20 competition and has developed rapidly since it began in 2020. It provides opportunities for young Sri Lankans to play with seasoned international cricketers, making it a thrilling and competitive atmosphere. Its short and rapid nature makes it with an audience in Sri Lanka and worldwide.

In a major boost for the LPL, Indian cricketers are going to feature in the tournament for the first time ever in its history in the 2025 season. However, some Indian players had already featured in the first season of the LPL in 2020 after retiring from international cricket. Their participation back then added experience and star value to the tournament. Now, more retired Indian stars are expected to bring excitement and guidance to young Sri Lankan players.

The LPL 2025 edition will take place from December 1 to December 23, 2025. There will be 24 matches played in three Sri Lankan venues: R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, and Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in Dambulla. The addition of Indian players is expected to draw more spectators, enhance the level of competition, and provide an opportunity for young players to learn from veteran cricketers.

Indian Players of Previous LPL Seasons

Irfan Pathan

Irfan Pathan represented the Kandy Tuskers during the inaugural season of the LPL in 2020. The ex-India all-rounder, who had the capability to bat as well as bowl at pace from the left arm, contributed much experience to the team. He led junior players and supported the team with both bat and ball. Pathan featured in three matches, made 54 runs, and did not make any wickets.

Munaf Patel

Munaf Patel also played for the Kandy Tuskers in 2020. The fast bowler last played international cricket in 2018 but came back to the team to share experience and control with the bowling. He played four games and taken three wickets. Despite limited games, he assisted in guiding the young bowlers and provided stability to the team.

Manpreet Gony

Manpreet Gony, a medium-fast bowler with the right arm, represented the Colombo Stars in 2020. He had retired from Indian cricket in 2019 and contributed experience from domestic leagues to the team. Gony represented the team once, took one wicket, and conceded 42 runs. His contribution helped stabilize the bowling attack and assist the less experienced players in the team.

See Also: 'Surgery Gives Me Hope' - Glenn Maxwell eyes surprise comeback for India-Australia T20I series

Sudeep Tyagi

Sudeep Tyagi joined the Dambulla Viiking team in 2020 after retiring from Indian cricket. The former fast bowler for India added to the team's bowling options and continued mentoring core group young players. Tyagi played three matches, but did not take any wickets.

Manvinder Bisla

Manvinder Bisla, a former keeper-batsman, was drafted by the Colombo Kings for the 2020 season but dropped out before playing a single game. Moreover, Manvinder Bisla played 7 games in the 2012 IPL season for KKR, scoring 213 runs with a strike rate of 133.12 and an average of 30.42. Yet, his most significant performance came in the final match against Chennai Super Kings, in which he scored 89 runs from 48 balls to seal a match-winning score for Kolkata Knight Riders. This key knock contributed towards Kolkata Knight Riders' first IPL championship. He was given the Man of the Match for his great performance during the final.

In a shocking turn of events, Indian cricketer Rinku Singh has reportedly received ransom threats from a gang linked to underworld don Dawood Ibrahim. According to the Mumbai Police Crime Branch, Rinku’s promotional team got three ransom calls between February and April 2025, demanding ₹5 crore. The incident has raised serious security concerns around the young cricketer, who has been a key player for India in recent months.

Police officials said that the threats were made by members of Dawood Ibrahim’s gang. Two men, Mohammed Dilshad and Mohammed Naveed, have been arrested in connection with the case. The duo was first caught in the West Indies and handed over to India on August 1. Mumbai Police believe these men were part of a larger network involved in multiple extortion cases.

The investigation also revealed that both accused had earlier demanded ₹10 crore from Zeeshan Siddiqui, the son of the late former MLA Baba Siddiqui. During interrogation, one of the suspects admitted that he had called Rinku Singh directly to demand ransom money. According to a report by TV9, they also used emails to send threatening messages to Rinku’s management team.

Police Investigation and Rinku’s Recent Cricket Success

Officials shared that the accused were hiding in the West Indies for several weeks before being caught by local authorities. After their extradition to India, Mumbai Police began questioning them and found clear evidence linking them to the threats. Investigators believe the gang planned to target multiple public figures using the same method of calls and emails.

The Mumbai Crime Branch has revealed that D Company had demanded a ransom of ₹5 crore from Indian cricketer Rinku Singh, sending him three threatening messages between February and April 2025. Interpol had earlier helped arrest the accused Mohammad Dilshad and Mohammad Naveed… pic.twitter.com/kO3NJbKLDx

— IANS (@ians_india) October 8, 2025

See Also: 'Surgery Gives Me Hope' - Glenn Maxwell eyes surprise comeback for India-Australia T20I series

Even with the off-field troubles, Rinku Singh is still a star of cricket. He was instrumental in India's victory in the final of the Asia Cup 2025 against Pakistan on September 28, when he scored the winning runs. Although he was not part of the team for the greater part of the tournament, he made the final count. Up to now, Rinku has appeared in 2 ODIs, accumulating 55 runs at a mean of 27.50, and 54 T20Is, scoring 550 runs at a strike rate of 161.77 and at an average of 42.31.

Team India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson shared a fun cricketing moment with former England footballer and Liverpool legend Michael Owen ahead of India’s upcoming Australia tour. The Men in Blue are set to play three ODIs and five T20Is Down Under, starting October 19. Michael Owen, who represented Premier League clubs like Liverpool, Newcastle United, and Manchester United, was in Mumbai for a Premier League fan engagement and community event.

Sanju Samson was present at the event at the NESCO Centre, where he bowled to Owen during a friendly game of cricket. The retired football legend impressed with his bat, hitting a couple of big shots to the pleasure of the spectators. Speaking about the experience, Owen admitted he could have chosen cricket as a sport if football had not existed.

“Yeah, I've loved the experience. I'm here for a week, so I'm really looking forward to it. I've obviously only been here two days now. So, managed to sample the weather. Very hot today. Trying to play a bit of football and a bit of cricket. Well, very passionate. I knew that before I came. I knew that India, despite India being a huge cricketing nation, they're a huge footballing nation as well,” Owen said in an interview with ANI.

Sanju Samson Opens Up About His Love for Football

Sanju Samson, who is also a big football fan, revealed his admiration for the Premier League and Liverpool in particular. He spoke about growing up playing football with his family and how the sport has always been close to his heart. “Yeah, definitely a very big fan of football and the Premier League. So, I've been watching a lot of football since my young days. And more than watching, I think playing a lot of football with my family, with my brother, with my father. So, yes, football is really close to me. Yeah, a very big Liverpool fan. I really love the way they play. So, yes, supporting them all the way through,” he said.

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See Also: Watch: Prabhsimran Singh's practice video with Yuvraj Singh after scoring century for India A

Samson, who was part of India’s Asia Cup 2025-winning squad, scored 132 runs in seven innings at an average of 33 and a strike rate of 124.52, including a half-century. Now named as India’s first-choice wicketkeeper-batter for the Australia tour, the 30-year-old will look to make a strong impact. During India’s 2020-21 Australia tour, Samson scored 48 runs in three T20Is. Having played 49 T20Is so far and scored 993 runs with three hundreds and three fifties, Samson will aim to deliver consistent performances this time around.