Matthew Hayden https://www.cricketwinner.com Matthew Hayden Sat, 01 Nov 2025 22:52:03 GMT https://validator.w3.org/feed/docs/rss2.html https://github.com/jpmonette/feed en Copyright © 2024 Cricket Winner. All Rights Reserved. <![CDATA[‘No one wants to see you….’- Ex-teammate mocks Matthew Hayden’s bold naked MCG walk remark]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/no-one-wants-to-see-you-ex-teammate-mocks-matthew-hayden-s-bold-naked-mcg-walk-remark/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/no-one-wants-to-see-you-ex-teammate-mocks-matthew-hayden-s-bold-naked-mcg-walk-remark/ Mon, 15 Sep 2025 19:39:38 GMT

Former Australian pacer Jason Gillespie humorously mocked his former teammate Matthew Hayden over a bold claim made ahead of the Ashes. Hayden had jokingly stated that he would walk naked around the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) if England’s Joe Root failed to score a century in the series.

Gillespie, speaking on the ‘All Over Bar the Cricket’ podcast, didn’t miss the opportunity to tease Hayden for his unusual pledge. The two shared a laugh over the unusual bet, with Gillespie playfully questioning Hayden’s seriousness and commitment to the promise. Fans also enjoyed the lighthearted banter, which showcased the camaraderie between the former Australian cricketers.

The exchange has since gone viral on social media, with cricket enthusiasts sharing clips and memes. While the Ashes contest between Australia and England promises intense cricketing action, this humorous moment added a fun, human touch to the pre-series hype, reminding fans of the lighter side of the sport.

See Also: IND vs PAK: Pakistan to boycott Asia Cup 2025? No handshake drama takes new turn

Jason Gillespie Humorously Mocked His Former Teammate:

Jason Gillespie humorously reacted to Matthew Hayden’s bold claim, joking that nobody would want to see him naked. He also recalled Hayden making a similar comment when Gillespie scored a double century in a Test against Bangladesh, highlighting their playful camaraderie off the field.

He said, “ He's got form here. He said the same thing when I made my double hundred in Bangladesh. I was on 70 or 80, and he said if you get a hundred or a double hundred, I'll do a nude lap. I said that's all good mate.”

He further said, “ But you've got to remember that we are in a Muslim country, so not sure that's going to work. To be fair Haydos, no one wants to see you without clothes, mate. I'm sorry. No one needs to see that.”

In the 2006 second Test at Chattogram, Jason Gillespie, sent in as a nightwatchman at number three, played a remarkable innings, scoring an unbeaten 201 off 425 balls with 26 fours and two sixes, helping Australia secure a dominant victory by an innings and 80 runs.

Jason Gillespie Supports Hayden’s Prediction of Root Century:

Joe Root, despite his reputation as one of the finest Test batters, is still searching for his first century on Australian soil. In 27 innings across Ashes tours, Root has managed 892 runs at an average of 35.68, including nine fifties but no three-figure score.

With the Ashes 2025–26 approaching, Matthew Hayden expressed confidence that Root will finally break the drought and score a hundred in Australia. Former pacer Jason Gillespie echoed Hayden’s views, backing the English veteran to overcome past struggles and deliver a landmark innings in the upcoming series. Both believe this could be Root’s defining Ashes moment.

He added, “ I absolutely agree with Matty Hayden. I think he will get a hundred on this tour. Joe is too good a player. It is a quirky little stat that he hasn't scored a hundred in Australia. I certainly think that will change this tour. He finds a way to keep improving.”

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<![CDATA['Walk nude around MCG...'- Former Australia star makes massive prediction on Joe Root ahead of Ashes 2025/26]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/walk-nude-around-mcg-former-australia-star-makes-massive-prediction-on-joe-root-ahead-of-ashes-2025-26/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/walk-nude-around-mcg-former-australia-star-makes-massive-prediction-on-joe-root-ahead-of-ashes-2025-26/ Fri, 12 Sep 2025 15:34:38 GMT

The former Australian opening batter, Matthew Hayden, has made a hilarious prediction on the former England batter, Joe Root, ahead of the Ashes 2025/26 against Australia down under. The opening game of the series will take place at the Optus Stadium in Perth on November 21, as the right-handed batter will be under pressure, having not celebrated a century down under.

Joe Root is currently the second leading run-getter in the longest format with 13543 runs in 288 innings at an average of 51.29 and a strike rate of 57.49, with the help of 66 half-centuries and 39 centuries at the best score of 262 runs. However, in Australia, he has drilled only 892 runs in 14 games at an average of 35.68 with nine fifties.

See Also: [WATCH] India stars share experience of 2011 World Cup winning moment ahead of India vs Pakistan clash

“I will walk nude around the MCG if he doesn’t make a hundred his summer.” Hayden reckoned during a recent interaction on the ‘All over Bar The Cricket’ YouTube channel, as his daughter and presenter, Grace Hayden, requested the Yorkshire batter to notch up a red-ball century.

Matthew Hayden makes hilarious prediction on Joe Root ahead of Ashes 2025/26

In his overall record against Australia, Root has clubbed 2428 runs in the 34 red-ball encounters at an average of 40.46, scoring four centuries and 17 half-centuries. Apart from that, he has recorded over 3300 runs in 64 innings against India in Tests at an average of nearly 60 and a strike rate of 55, thanks to 13 centuries and 12 half-centuries.

Root has found the bowling of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood challenging. But Cummins is currently recovering from a back injury, and he could get ruled out for the first three encounters of the series. This could be a good chance for the batter, who was in excellent touch during the home red-ball series against India.

For him and a few veterans, it could be the last Ashes trip. England haven’t won a single Test, let alone a series, against Australia down under since earning the urn in 2010/11 under Andrew Strauss’ captaincy. It will be high time for them to turn the tables, and Root will be their key man with the bat.

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<![CDATA[‘Gautam Gambhir could have used better language’- Matthew Hayden Comments on Gautam Gambhir’s Clash with Oval Curator]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/gautam-gambhir-could-have-used-better-language-matthew-hayden-comments-on-gautam-gambhir-s-clash-with-oval-curator/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/gautam-gambhir-could-have-used-better-language-matthew-hayden-comments-on-gautam-gambhir-s-clash-with-oval-curator/ Sat, 09 Aug 2025 19:57:40 GMT

Gautam Gambhir silenced his critics by leading a young and relatively inexperienced Indian side to an impressive 2-2 draw in the five-match Test series against England.

Before the tour, many doubted India’s chances, especially with England boasting a strong squad and the advantage of familiar home conditions. Expectations were low, but the team showed remarkable grit and determination throughout the series.

Shubman Gill and his teammates displayed fearless cricket, matching England’s intensity at every stage. The series reached its peak in the final Test at The Oval, where India won by just six runs, leveling the series and sending a powerful message to their opponents.

See Also: ‘I did a bit of mistake to restart’- Rashid Khan Opens Up About Returning to Cricket After Back Surgery

Mathew Hyden Talked About Gautam Gambhir’s Behaviour:

Before the fifth Test, India’s head coach Gautam Gambhir was involved in a heated exchange with Oval curator Lee Fortis during a practice session. The conflict started when Fortis asked the Indian coaches to keep 2.5 metres away from the main pitch square, despite them wearing appropriate footwear like joggers or rubber-spiked shoes.

This directive did not sit well with the Indian camp, leading to visible frustration. Gambhir, unable to hold back his emotions, confronted the curator and voiced his displeasure over the matter. Gambhir said, “ You don't tell any of us what we need to do... you have no right to tell us. You are just a groundsman, nothing beyond.”

Experienced Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden shared his own experiences dealing with pitch curators and supported Gautam Gambhir’s perspective. Hayden noted that while Gambhir’s frustration was understandable, he could have managed the situation more calmly by using more thoughtful language during the disagreement.

Hayden said, “ I used to sit in the middle and meditate. And, often there would not be a person that would not come up to me and tell me to move. They (curators) can get pretty protective around the surface. This is a typical case in England. It is a bit of a flex, here we are, final Test match, this is my venue, and they are going to try and make it difficult on Gautam Gambhir. But I think he's got every right to tone it down. He could have used better language. But the reality is, his team is trying to train ahead of the most important Test match.”

On the same day, England’s star batter Joe Root and stand-in captain Ollie Pope were seen shadow batting on the match pitch.

Former Australian all-rounder Greg Blewett, discussing the incident, called it ridiculous. He agreed with Matthew Hayden that while Gambhir’s frustration was understandable, he could have handled the situation with more restraint.

He said, “ I agree. Even now, even as a commentator, you get near the pitch and everyone is saying you can't get anywhere near it and you're like I haven't got spikes on. It is quite ridiculous. I get the frustration. But I agree that the language that he used wasn't great. If he reflects, he could have probably handled it a little better.”

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<![CDATA[WATCH: Brian Lara's shocking revelation on dark side of breaking records]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-brian-lara-s-shocking-revelation-on-dark-side-of-breaking-records/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/watch-brian-lara-s-shocking-revelation-on-dark-side-of-breaking-records/ Tue, 15 Jul 2025 23:33:00 GMT

The former West Indies captain, Brian Lara, has made a shocking revelation on how breaking the world record twice in his career took a lot out of him and gave him several stress periods. During his recent interaction onThe Overlap cricket,the southpaw spoke on the night when Matthew Hayden broke his record of 375

‘I wasn’t annoyed. I was asleep in Jamaica. And my agent called me, and he was in London. He said you need to have a number for you to call. I said why because I think he did a lot on that day. So, he might have gone to sleep at 1:00 something, and then he scored a couple of hundreds on that day.Lara talked on the show.

See Also: WATCH: Relive when fans argued with Virat Kohli for not clicking photos

Hayden smashed 380 runs at the WACA against Zimbabwe in 2003, which came nine years after Lara built the record of the highest individual Test score of 375 against England at St John's. Before that, the previous highest score by an individual batter was unbeaten 365 runs by Garry Sobers in 1958 against Pakistan at the Sabina Park.

Watch: Brian Lara reveals how breaking records put stress on him

Lara looked back at the night when he called Hayden and congratulated him on the record.So, he had a number to call the Perth dressing room. But I said Why? He said that someone broke your record. I called the dressing room, and it was very noisy. I went to Matthew and congratulated him. But funny enough, I felt that for those 10 years, I had a lot of stress because of those two records.

‘And one of my main things was actually to be a good captain and not to have strangled myself with the double world record. I wasn’t perturbed and didn’t worry much about it, but here came England 10 years later.The 56-year-old added during the same session.

However, Hayden’s 380 didn’t last long. Just six months later in 2004, at the same ground, St John’s Park, Lara became the first and the only batter as of now to celebrate 400 runs individually. That 400* is still the highest score by a batter in the longest format, coincidentally, along with the ground, it also came against England. The only difference was the opposition captains.

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<![CDATA[List to players to score fastest triple century in Test cricket ft. Wiaan Mulder]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/list-to-players-to-score-fastest-triple-century-in-test-cricket-ft-wiaan-mulder/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-stats/list-to-players-to-score-fastest-triple-century-in-test-cricket-ft-wiaan-mulder/ Mon, 07 Jul 2025 17:29:49 GMT

Wiaan Mulder updated the pages of history books with his stunning 367* run knock. He took only 297 balls to complete his triple ton, maintaining a strike rate of over 100, which was not a usual scenario in a Test match even in the modern era. Despite scoring a triple hundred with a quick pace, the temporary skipper of South Africa was not able to break the record of former India international Virendra Sehwag. In the list of fastest players to score triple tons, Sehwag is still maintaining the top spot of the chart. 

Top 5 players to score the fastest 300 in Tests:

Virendra Sehwag

Virendra Sehwag

Back in 2008, when South Africa faced India in Chennai for a Test match, Virendra Sehwag scored the fastest 300 in the history of Test cricket. In 278 balls, the opener set a milestone that is yet to be broken. During this innings, the attacking batsman smashed 42 boundaries and five 6s to bag a 319-run innings before losing his wicket to Makhaya Ntini. The high-scoring match ended in a draw.

Wiaan Mulder

Wiaan Mulder stood tall and delivered the best innings of his career when Temba Bavuma was absent from the away series against Zimbabwe. Mulder needed only 297 balls to accomplish a 300 as a South African batsman, only after the formal international Hashim Amla. Mulder remained unbeaten for 367 off 334 before he decided to declare the innings. During his batting, the batter found the ropes 49 times for boundaries and hoisted the red ball for 4 maximums. 

Read More: Wiaan Mulder slams triple ton, joins Hashim Amla in South Africa’s elite Test records

Harry Brook

Harry Brook

During a Test match against England in Multan in 2024, Pakistan faced the wrath of Harry Brook. The middle-order batter registered his 300 playing only 310 runs and remained not out for 317. England won the match by an innings and 47 runs as they got 823/7d on the scoreboard.

Matthew Hayden

Matthew Hayden

One of the most fierce openers in the history of cricket, Matthew Hayden's 380-run innings was a historic mark. The former Australia international took 362 balls to etch his 300. The match was against Zimbabwe in 2003. Australia won the game by an inning and 175 runs. Hayden hammered thirty-eight 4s and eleven 6s during his innings. 

Virendra Sehwag

Virendra Sehwag

Virendra Sehwag once again makes an entry in the list. In 2004 against the archrivals Pakistan, the former right-handed opener took the home team in Multan for an adventurous ride. In 364 deliveries, Sehwag delivered another 300 of his career and helped India to grab a victory over Pakistan by an innings and 52 runs. He struck the ball 39 times for 4 and six times for 6. 

 

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<![CDATA['They have got a number of Injuries'— Mathew Hayden provides intellect inputs before ENG vs IND series]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/they-have-got-a-number-of-injuries-mathew-hayden-provides-intellect-inputs-before-eng-vs-ind-series/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/they-have-got-a-number-of-injuries-mathew-hayden-provides-intellect-inputs-before-eng-vs-ind-series/ Mon, 16 Jun 2025 22:55:05 GMT

The countdown has started for the high-voltage England vs. India 5-match Test series starting on Friday (June 20). India, without the services of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin, will face the host under newly appointed captain Shubman Gill.

Last year, the Indian team in the Whites was bamboozled by New Zealand and Australia and knocked India out of the equation for the World Test Championship's final (WTC Final 2025). India, with a new captain and new hopes, is set to start their new chapter in Leeds.

Ahead of the match, many cricket experts put England ahead of the traveling team as the favorite to win the series. But former Australia international and now cricket expert Matthew Hayden shared his thoughts in different ways. In Hayden's opinion, India will have a brilliant opportunity to defeat England, the host team, because they have multiple injury concerns, and he did not want to rate the current English bowling line-up highly.

Read More: Texas Super Kings vs Seattle Orcas (TEX vs SEA): Match 7, MLC 2025, Match Preview

Hayden has trust on Indian batting line-up

"I don't think England bowlers are that good; they have got a number of injuries and a number of retirees as well. That will be the challenge. The northern Test matches, when it's zipping around, will be key. Win that one, and it could well be a series that goes India's way," Hayden said on Jio Hotstar. 

Even before the first Test at Headingley, Leeds, England, they will have to keep an eye on their multiple bowlers. Speed stars like Mark Wood, Jofra Archer, and Gus Atkinson are not part of the 1st match starting on June 20. England have picked Josh Tongue, Sam Cook, Chris Woakes, Brydon Carse, and Jamie Overton as the five pacers in the squad for the Headingley Test.

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<![CDATA['Had to be less defensive..' - Former player slams Pat Cummins’ captaincy in SA vs AUS 2025 WTC final]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/had-to-be-less-defensive-former-player-slams-pat-cummins-captaincy-in-sa-vs-aus-2025-wtc-final/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/had-to-be-less-defensive-former-player-slams-pat-cummins-captaincy-in-sa-vs-aus-2025-wtc-final/ Sat, 14 Jun 2025 13:16:26 GMT

South Africa are edging closer to creating history in the ongoing World Test Championship Final 2025 (WTC). With only 69 runs remaining in the bank and eight wickets to go, South Africa emerge as the strong favorites to clinch their maiden ICC title since 1998. A fighting partnership between Aiden Markram and Temba Bavuma has turned the tables on Australia, putting the Southern African nation on the cusp of a historic cricketing moment. 

South Africa's resounding progress in the WTC final match has left many Australian cricket experts alarmed. Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden went hard on Pat Cummins, calling him out for being way too defensive in his approach. After concluding their second innings on a high, Australia had mounted a reasonable target of 281 on the board. Much to their delight, the Aussie quicks, including Mitch Starc, made an ideal start by removing Rickelton and Mulder in quick succession to give Australia a definite advantage. 

But all that advantage was lost in an instant once they were met with fierce resistance from Bavuma and Markram. Australia had South Africa reeling but failed to make further breakthroughs, allowing them to conclude day three on a high with all eight wickets intact.

See also: Top 5 wicket takers for South Africa in Test cricket ft Kagiso Rabada

Haydos blasts the Australian skipper to let South Africa off the hook

As quoted by Hindustan Times, Hayden slammed Cummins for being too defensive against Bavuma, who had just walked out to bat after Mulder's dismissal. After bundling them out cheaply for 138 in the first innings, Cummins was expected to adopt a very aggressive approach. But the absence of his aggressive approach baffled the Aussie great. 

He further highlighted the lack of protection in the catching cover regions and stressed that the field placement should have been more attacking, which would have helped them cut down unnecessary singles.

“You know, this defensive effort here from Australia, it was all about how they were going to take wickets and how they were going to do that early. You know, when they got through to Mulder, they got through Rickelton, and they had to put at that point pressure on Bavuma. They had to put those catching cover areas, had to be less defensive, more attacking. Can you imagine if those first couple of balls had been chipped up? South Africa now it's three down. Australia got control of the match. So for me, that was a trick," 

The 2023 defending champions are on the verge of a catastrophic defeat in the WTC summit clash. Although the job is yet to be fully finished, and given South Africa's all-time reputation of "chokers", we cannot say for sure whether they are out of the woods. The Aussies, who have proven their tactical brilliance in the knockout matches time and again, can't be taken lightly as they will look to leave no stone unturned to retain their crown at all costs. 

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<![CDATA[Commentators announced for ICC World Test Championship Final between South Africa and Australia]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/commentators-announced-for-icc-world-test-championship-final-between-south-africa-and-australia/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/commentators-announced-for-icc-world-test-championship-final-between-south-africa-and-australia/ Tue, 10 Jun 2025 14:21:44 GMT

The battle of the heavyweights has almost arrived as the Lord's Cricket Ground gears up to host a blockbuster World Test Championship (WTC) final clash between Australia and South Africa starting on June 11. Australia are the defending champions and will do whatever it takes to defend the crown at any cost. South Africa, on the other hand, are poised to make their maiden appearance in the WTC final, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to create glory. The Proteas have played exceptional cricket of late to make it to the top summit and will look to leave no stone unturned to get their hands on the prestigious WTC mace.

See also: PSL vs IPL Round 2? Big twist ahead of 2026 Season

ICC announces commentators for the WTC Final

Ahead of the thrilling clash, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled a richly diverse and a star-studded commentary panel comprising as many as 11 commentators from seven Test-playing nations. These feature some of cricket's most iconic voices, including Ravi Shastri, Ian Bishop, Ian Smith, Nasser Hussain, Kevin Pietersen, Dinesh Karthik, Matthew Hayden, Stuart Broad, Graeme Smith, Shaun Pollock, and Mel Jones.

Ravi Shastri and Dinesh Karthik have been drafted to the commentary panel, despite India not making it to the WTC Final this time. Shastri brings an unmistakable booming voice and high energy to the microphone, especially in big moments. His voice rises with the tension, and his delivery becomes almost theatrical. Karthik, on the other hand, brings a fresh and insightful voice to the comm box that has made him an instant fan favorite in recent times. 

Whereas, two commentators from the two participating nations have been drafted. Matthew Hayden and Mel Jones will comprise the Australian contingent, and Graeme Smith and Shaun Pollock will form the South African contingent. Both Hayden and Mel are considered highly renowned voices in the Indian Premier League (IPL) and are equipped with a fast cricketing IQ. Hayden brings a no-nonsense, bold, “go hard or go home” approach to his analysis, while Mel has a more balanced tone, which is both engaging and pleasant to hear. 

From the South African point of view, Graeme Smith and Shaun Pollock are also considered some of the most revered voices in world cricket. Having captained his national side in over 100 Tests, Smith's commentary primarily revolves around strategic depth, often explaining captaincy calls, field settings, and psychological aspects of the game. Pollock, being a former world-class all-rounder, brings superb technical insight into bowling.

Other iconic voices feature Ian Bishop and Ian Smith from the West Indies and New Zealand, respectively, and three from the host nation, including Nasser Hussain, Kevin Pietersen, and Stuart Broad. These legendary voices, who once played the game at the highest level, bring an extraordinary amount of experience with them. They will now be tasked with entertaining the viewers with their insightful and engaging commentary in the much-anticipated WTC Final.

 

 

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<![CDATA[List of seven new cricketers inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/list-of-seven-new-cricketers-inducted-into-the-icc-hall-of-fame/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/list-of-seven-new-cricketers-inducted-into-the-icc-hall-of-fame/ Mon, 09 Jun 2025 23:56:58 GMT

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has revealed the newest members of the Hall of Fame, announcing seven legendary cricketers from past and current generations and formats. ICC Chair Jay Shah welcomed the new members to the Hall of Fame at a special ceremony in London, which was held at the iconic Abbey Road Studios.

ICC Chair Jay Shah welcomed the new inductees, saying, "Through the ICC Hall of Fame, we pay tribute to the finest players the game has seen, individuals whose remarkable careers have shaped cricket's legacy and inspired generations," Shah said.

“This year, we are privileged to induct seven truly outstanding individuals into this prestigious group. On behalf of the ICC, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to each of them and hope they cherish this well-deserved recognition as a defining moment in their cricketing journey.”

The seven inductees are:

Matthew Hayden

A dominant figure in world cricket, Hayden played 103 Tests and scored 8,625 runs at an average of 50.73. He also featured in 161 ODIs, amassing 6,133 runs at an average of 43.80, and added 308 runs from nine T20Is.

Matthew Hayden was a dominant opening batsman who consistently beat the world's best bowlers. With 30 Test centuries and a greater than 50 average, his supremacy in red-ball cricket was evident. Just as devastating in ODIs, Hayden topped the run charts in the 2007 ICC World Cup with three hundreds. His contributions saw Australia win two World Cups in a golden period. After retirement, he became widely respected as a cricket commentator. His ICC Hall of Fame induction is a testament to his monumental contribution to the game.

"The ICC Hall of Fame includes many of my heroes of yesteryear as well as contemporaries whom I admired and enjoyed competing against," he said.

"Each of these players gave something to the game in their own way. It is incredible to be recognized along with them."

Hashim Amla

One of South Africa's most elegant and consistent batters, Amla accumulated 9,282 runs in 124 Tests and 8,113 in 181 ODIs, while maintaining an impressive 49.46 average in ODIs.

Hashim Amla exemplified elegance and reliability at the crease for South Africa. His beautiful cover drives and wristy flicks off the leg side were hallmarks of a productive career. He became the first South African to achieve a triple hundred in Tests and concluded with 55 overseas tons. Amla's consistency assisted South Africa in reaching the No. 1 Test ranking while he was on the side. He was just as impressive in ODIs, scoring freely in all conditions. His induction recognizes a player who added class and composure to all forms.

"It is an honor to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame, especially alongside Graeme," Amla said.

"The Hall of Fame includes some of the most celebrated players in the history of cricket, all of whom have big achievements. Such recognition feels surreal, and I am really thankful."

MS Dhoni

India’s most successful white-ball captain, Dhoni played 90 Tests, 350 ODIs, and 98 T20Is, scoring over 17,000 international runs and effecting over 800 dismissals.

MS Dhoni’s cricket journey is defined by iconic finishes, tactical brilliance, and historic triumphs. He led India to three ICC titles: the 2007 T20 World Cup, 2011 ODI World Cup, and 2013 Champions Trophy. Known for his finishing abilities and calm demeanor, Dhoni mastered white-ball cricket with unmatched precision. His innovation behind the stumps set a new benchmark for wicketkeeping. From humble small-town roots to international fame, his legacy endures through generations. The ICC Hall of Fame now honors one of India's all-time great cricketers.

"It is an honor to be named in the ICC Hall of Fame, which recognizes the contributions of cricketers across generations and from all over the world," he said.

 "To have your name remembered alongside such all-time greats is a wonderful feeling. It is something that I will cherish forever."

Also Read: 'You've lost all respect' - Former cricketer slams move to rename Pataudi Trophy as Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy ahead of ENG vs IND 2025 Tests

Graeme Smith

Smith led South Africa with grit, scoring 9,265 runs in 117 Tests and nearly 7,000 in ODIs. He is remembered as a strong captain and a dependable top-order batter.

Graeme Smith was a dashing and forceful opening batsman who accepted leadership at the age of 22. He led South Africa in a golden period, with authority as well as sustained batting performances. Smith played key roles in big wins and series victories across the world. His resilient frame of mind and capacity for motivating teammates ensured him a position as one of the best leaders in the contemporary game. He struck well in excess of a hundred despite captaincy pressures, creating a lasting legacy. The Hall of Fame acknowledges his twin excellence as player and captain.

"It feels amazing to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame alongside some legendary cricketers, all of whom have made significant contributions to the game in their own way," he said.

"This is also a proud moment for South Africa, as two of us have gotten recognition this year."

Daniel Vettori

The former New Zealand captain played 113 Tests and picked up 362 wickets while scoring 4,531 runs. He also claimed 305 wickets in ODIs and 38 in T20Is.

Daniel Vettori added astute left-arm spin to composed captaincy and solid lower-order batting. He is still one of only a handful to reach the double of 4,000 runs and 300 Test wickets. As captain, he led New Zealand to famous landmarks such as a Champions Trophy final appearance. Vettori was a thinking cricketer at all times, beating batters with flight and variation. He still remains involved in the game even after retirement as a coach. His ICC Hall of Fame induction recognizes both his ability and cricketing awareness.

"Looking at the past inductees of the ICC Hall of Fame, one can see the outstanding talent and contribution they made to the growth and popularity of the game," Vettori said.

"To gain recognition alongside them is simply overwhelming, and I can’t find words to describe the feeling."

Sana Mir

Pakistan's pioneer in women’s cricket, Sana took 151 wickets in 120 ODIs and 89 in 106 T20Is, becoming the first Pakistani woman in the Hall of Fame.

Sana Mir pioneered and transformed women's cricket in Pakistan by skill and leadership. A true match-winner, she compiled more than 200 international wickets and was instrumental in winning numerous games. Away from the game, she advocated for issues such as mental well-being and body image and became an inspiration to many. Her impact went beyond statistics, with the contribution to increasing the profile of women's cricket in her homeland. She demonstrated resilience in establishing a path for future generations. Her Hall of Fame induction is a moment of pride and history for Pakistan.

"From dreaming as a little girl that one day there would even be a women’s team in our country to now standing here, inducted among the very legends I idolized long before I ever held a bat or a ball—this is a moment I couldn’t have dared to imagine," she said.

"I am incredibly grateful for this honor and hope to give back to the sport in any way I can. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my teammates, coaches, and family for all their support over the years."

Also Read: 'We planned everything..'.'—Heinrich Klaasen reveals reason behind his international retirement

Sarah Taylor

England’s star wicketkeeper-batter scored over 6,000 international runs and was involved in more than 230 dismissals across formats. Her contributions in major tournaments are widely celebrated.

Sarah Taylor was one of England's best wicketkeepers and top-order batters with style. Her rapid glovework, particularly stumpings down the leg side, raised the bar for women's cricket. Taylor was central to England's World Cup victories in 2009 and 2017, producing vital displays in the knockout stages. She struck a balance between flair and calm, leading the next generation of cricketers with courage. Her career also served to destigmatize mental ill health in sport. The Hall of Fame rightly recognizes her enduring legacy on and off the pitch.

"Being inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame is one of the best moments of my life and truly feels like a dream come true," Taylor said.

 "Women's cricket has been thriving in recent years, and receiving this award during such a significant time makes it even more special. I am grateful to the members of the ICC Hall of Fame selection panel for this recognition."

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<![CDATA[IPL 2025: Matthew Hayden Calls Dhoni 'Tuk Tuk' During CSK vs KKR Match]]> https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-matthew-hayden-calls-dhoni-tuk-tuk-during-csk-vs-kkr-match/ https://www.cricketwinner.com/cricket-news/ipl-2025-matthew-hayden-calls-dhoni-tuk-tuk-during-csk-vs-kkr-match/ Fri, 11 Apr 2025 22:06:36 GMT

The IPL 2025 Chennai Super Kings (CSK) vs Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) clash provided the spectators with plenty to cheer about. In addition to the exciting cricketing action, the highlight that took everyone's breath away was from the commentary stand. The erstwhile Australian opener Matthew Hayden affectionately nicknamed MS Dhoni "Tuk Tuk" in the course of the match. He made this observation while observing Dhoni play some dot balls as he constructed his innings cautiously on the slow Chepauk pitch.

Hayden's statement was not an attempt to disparage Dhoni but was simply a light comment. In the game of cricket, "Tuk Tuk" is frequently used for slow-playing players and defensive players in adverse conditions. Hayden, respecting Dhoni enormously, has never spoken ill of him but rather has always called him the mainstay of CSK.
His light-hearted remark brought a refreshing touch to the commentary, making the game even more exciting for all the fans from across the globe.

As it is known to all, MS Dhoni possesses a smart game sense. Despite beginning slowly, it was a part of his plan to study the pitch first and then go for big hits.
His composed attitude once again justified why he is rated among the top finishers in cricket. Eventually, Dhoni did what he does best  : finished the game with coolness and class.

Also read: PSL 2025: Reporter Trolls Mohammad Rizwan during press conference


Match Highlights: CSK vs KKR — IPL 2025, April 11

The match was held at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. KKR had won the toss and decided to bowl first. CSK did not have a good day with the bat, though. They could only manage to score 103 runs for 9 wickets in 20 overs. Vijay Shankar scored a top score of 29 runs, while Sunil Narine of KKR spearheaded the bowling effort with stunning figures of 3 wickets for 13 runs. Varun Chakaravarthy and Harshit Rana also played well, taking two wickets each. MS Dhoni, playing his usual finishing role, couldn't make much of an impact and was out for a mere 1 run.

In reply, KKR easily chased the target, reaching 104 for 3 in only 17.3 overs.
Quinton de Kock was the star with 38 runs, and Ajinkya Rahane supported well with 28 runs. KKR's top order laid the foundation for the chase, making it an easy win. KKR won the game by 7 wickets, with Sunil Narine being the most impressive player on the day. It was an all-round convincing performance by KKR, and they took home a crucial victory.

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