In the 14th match of the Big Bash League 2024-25 (BBL) between the Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder, cricket fans were treated to a spectacular bowling performance by Usama Mir. The right-arm leg-spinner from the Melbourne Stars produced a jaw-dropping moment in the 6th over of Sydney Thunder’s innings, dismissing Cameron Bancroft and Oliver Davies on consecutive deliveries?, setting the tone for a riveting ?contest at the Manuka Oval in Canberra.

Back-to-back strikes by Usama Mir

Bancroft, looking confident, fell victim to Mir’s clever delivery. Attempting a risky reverse-sweep on a very full-length ball, Bancroft misjudged the shot entirely. The ball snuck? through and crashed into the off-stump, leaving Bancroft bowled and the crowd in awe. Bancroft departed after a well-made 21 off 16 balls, including two fours and a six, marking a crucial breakthrough for the Stars.

Mir wasn’t done yet. On the very next delivery, he claimed his second wicket in dramatic fashion. Tossing the ball up enticingly on off-stump, Mir drew Davies into an ambitious drive towards long-on. The ball dipped sharply, forcing Davies into a mistimed shot that looped in the air. Displaying incredible athleticism, Mir dived to his right to complete a stunning caught-and-bowled dismissal. Davies was sent back for a golden duck, leaving the Sydney Thunder stunned. The moment nearly slipped as the ball briefly wobbled in Mir’s grasp, but he held on, sealing his “two-in-two” magic.

Here is the video:

2 balls, 2 wickets 😮

Usama Mir claims Bancroft & Davies with back-to-back deliveries! 🇵🇰 @BKTtires #GoldenMoment #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/7YwfD4PJOg

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 28, 2024

Also READ: BBL|14 [Twitter reactions]: Ben McDermott’s fiery knock propels Hobart Hurricanes to victory over Adelaide Stri??kers in a high-scoring thriller

Sam Billings shines for Sydney Thunder

Despite the early setback caused by Mir’s brilliance, Sydney Thunder managed to post a competitive total of 182/8 in 20 overs, thanks to a scintillating knock by wicketkeeper-batter Sam Billings. The Englishman smashed a superb 72 off 39 balls, featuring nine fours and two towering sixes at an extraordinary strike rate of 184.62. Billings�?innings provided the backbone for Thunder’s effort, setting a challenging target of 183 runs for the Melbourne Stars. In response, the Stars could only able to reach 164/8, losing the game by?? 18 runs.

Also READ: BBL 2024-25: Nick Hobson shines ??as Perth Scorchers cruise to a 33-run win over Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash ?League

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

In the 8th match of the Big Bash League 2024-25 (BBL) at the Sydney Showground Stadium, fans were treated to a thrilling display of power-hitting as Sydney Thunder’s top-order batter Oliver Davies stole the show. In a remarkable sequence during the seventh over of Thunder’s innings, Davies unleashed a stunning rain of sixes, hammering three consecutive maximums off Sydney Sixers�?bowler Todd Murphy.

A spectacle of back-to-back sixes

The fireworks began on the first ball of the over when Murphy pitched the ball, and Davies stepped out confidently to launch it over wide long-on for a towering six.? The second delivery met a similar fate as Davies advanced down the pitch, connecting sweetly t?o send the ball soaring over long-on once again. Murphy adjusted his angle for the third ball, switching to around the wicket, but it made no difference. Davies read the line perfectly, shimmed down the track, and blasted another massive six over long-on, leaving the crowd in awe of his power and precision.

Here is the video:

"He really makes a point of trying to embarrass the opposition captain, so hopefully he doesn't right now."

Nek minnut… #BBL14 pic.twitter.com/Iv0Xx7ZgGI

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 21, 2024

Davies played a crucial innings, scoring 47 runs off 34 balls. His knock included one six and three boundaries, contributing significantly to Thunder’s total with an im??pressive strike rate of 138.24. Although h??e fell short of a half-century, his performance in the middle overs added valuable momentum to the team’s innings.

Also READ: Twitter reactions: Mitchell Owen’s brilliant ton powers Hobart Hu?rricanes to a commanding win over Perth Scorchers in BBL 2024-25

Sydney Thunder lose a thriller

Batting first, Sydney Thunder posted a competitive total of 163/5 in their allotted 20 overs. Cameron Bancroft anchored the innings with an unbeaten 70 off 52 balls. His composed knock included five fours and three sixes, str?iking at 134.62. Bancroft’s efforts ensured Thunder had a solid foundation, with Davies and others adding valuable contributions.

For the Sydney Sixers, left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein was the standout performer with the ball. He bowled a disciplined four-over spell, claiming two wickets while maintaining an impressive economy rate of 5.80. Hosein’s ability to contain runs and pick up crucial wickets kept Thunder’s aggressive batting in check?? during the? middle overs.

The match went down to the wire where the Sixers managed to claim the victory on the final ball of the match. Ben Dwarshuis and Jordan Silk played handy?? unbeaten knocks of 20 and 36 to help their side chase down a thriller.

Also WATC??H: Ben McDermott’s incredible one handed catch of Finn ?Allen in the BBL 2024-25

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Prasidh Krishna has once again proven his mettle with a phenomenal bowling display in the ongoing second unofficial Test between India A and Australia A. Known for his ability to deliver searing pace, precise line, and tactical variations, Prasidh effectively dismantled the top order of Australia A, adding weight to his cla??im as?? one of India’s brightest bowling prospects.

With the ball swinging under overcast conditions, Prasidh took full advantage, executing deliveries that tested the technique and patience of the Australian batters. He started Australia’s second innings with a blistering over, striking on his second delivery to dismiss opener Marcus Harris for a duck. However, he didn’t stop there—his next delivery created an unforgettable moment as he clean-bowled Cameron Bancroft with an impeccable yorker.

Prasidh Krishna removes Cameron Bancroft with a stunning yorker

The dismissal of Bancroft will undoubtedly be remembered as a highlight of the match. Prasidh’s yorker was timed to perfection, and Bancroft, an experienced campaigner, had no answer to the delivery. The right-arm pacer angled the ball from over the wicket, delivering it with enough pace to deceive Bancroft. The ball dipped sharply, crashing into Bancroft’s pads before he could react.

Prasidh and the India A fielders erupted in a loud appeal, and the umpire quickly raised his finger, confirming Bancroft’s dismissal for a golden duck. This wicket highlighted Prasidh’s ability to bowl with both accuracy and aggression, hallmarks of a top-quality pace bowler.

Here is the video:

Back-to-back wickets from Krishna! 🤯

📝 BLOG > //t.co/f7uGPHfDZF
📺 Watch #AUSAvINDA live on Fox Cricket or Kayo //t.co/bKeKs1VdVw pic.twitter.com/01F9PvFQdu

— Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) November 9, 2024

Also READ: David Warner drops ball-tampering?? bombshell; criticizes Cricket Australia’s silence on India A incident

A potential call-up in India’s XI for Border-Gavaskar Trophy?

Prasidh’s impactful performance in this series has not gone unnoticed. As India gear up for the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25, the management may have to consider Prasidh as a valuable addition to the pace attack. With Mohammed Shami unavailable due to ongoing recovery, Prasidh’s growing consistency and ability to swing the ball at pace make him an appealing choice in India’s playing XI. His current form in the unofficial Test series has demonstrated not only his control over challenging deliveries but also his mental resilience to handle high-pressure moments.

The Border-Gavaskar Trophy, set to begin on November 22 in Perth, will require India’s bowlers to be in top form to counter Australia’s strong batting lineup. Prasidh’s toe-crushing yorkers and skill in maintaining tight lines could be instrumental for India, especially in Australian conditions that traditionally favor pace. His potential inclusion in India’s XI would add depth to the bowling options, complementing established bowlers like Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj.

Also READ: 3 reasons why Abhimanyu Easwaran’s selection for Border-Gavas??kar Trophy 2024-2?5 is a smart move by India

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

The Australian cricketing landscape is abuzz with discussions surrounding the opening partnership for the upcoming Test series against India. Former Australian captain, Michael Clarke, has thrown his weight behind Cameron Bancroft‘s inclusion in the Test squad and a potential return to the opening slot.

Bancroft, a seasoned campaigner in domestic cricket, has consistently impressed with his performances in the Sheffield Shield. His stellar run in the competition, culminating in being the leading run-scorer, has made him a strong contender for the coveted opening spot. However, despite his consistent form, Bancroft found himself overlooked for the opening slot earlier this year when David Warner retired. The selectors opted for all-rounder Cameron Green at No. 4 and promoted Steve Smith to the top of the order.

Michael Clarke opts for experience against India

Clarke believes that experience and consistency should be paramount in selecting the opening pair. He argued that Bancroft’s proven track record in domestic cricket and his ability to perform under pressure should give him an edge over younger contenders like Sam Konstas.

Speaking on Sky’s Big Sports Breakfast, Clarke said, “This is also what I’ve said about Sam Konstas as well. I think he’s a very talented player and I love that he’s started the season very well, but just because you get two hundreds doesn’t mean you jump someone that’s scored 12 hundreds in the past four years, like Bancroft or Harris.”

Also READ: Cricket Australia announces complete schedule of Ashes 2025-26; ??Perth to host the serie??s opener

Clarke appreciates the talented youngster 

While Clarke acknowledged the immense potential of 20-year-old Konstas, who has made waves with his performances, he e?mphasized that players like Bancroft and Harris, with their proven track records, deserve to be ??prioritized.

“They’ve played first-class cricket for a long time, they’ve earned the right to be next in line,” he added. Clarke suggested that Konstas’ opportunity would likely come soon, particularly if Usman Khawaja decides to retire at the end of the series.

Clarke’s confidence on the Australian skipper

Clarke also expressed his belief that Australian captain Pat Cummins and the selectors have already made a decision on who will partner Khawaja at the top of the order, especially after Green was ruled out of the series. He dismissed speculation of a ‘bat-off’ between the contenders during the Australia A vs India A ??matches, suggesti??ng that the decision has likely been made.

As the highly anticipated five-Test series between Australia and India looms large, the question of who will open the batting remains a topic of intense speculation. Clarke’s endorsement of Bancroft adds another layer of intrigue to the debate, and it remains to be seen if the selectors will heed his advice.

Also READ: Will Mohammed Shami ma?ke his comeback during the Australia tour? Indian captain Rohit Sha??rma addresses

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

As Australia prepare for the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy (BGT) 2024-25 series against India, the absence of Cameron Green due to surgery has opened up new opportunities in the opening batting position. With Steve Smith‘s return to the middle order, the selectors have several contenders vying for the crucial role of opening the innings.

Cameron Green ruled out of the BGT 2024-25

Green has been sidelined from the BGT after undergoing surgery, which is expected to keep him out of action for six months. This setback not only rules him out of the Test series against India but also the upcoming February tour of Sri Lanka and the ICC Champions Trophy. Green’s absence raises concerns about his availability for the next Indian Premier League (IPL) sea??son as well. He reported experiencing lower back pain during the recent tour of the UK, with scans ultimately revealing a stress fracture that necessitated the surgery.

Steve Smith set to return to middle order

Following David Warner‘s retirement after the Sydney Test last summer, Smith briefly took on the role of Test opener. However, he didn’t find enough success in the new role. Now, national selection chair George Bailey has confirmed that Smith will return to his traditional position in the middle order, primarily batting at No. 4. This decision leaves a vacancy at the top of the order, prompting a focus on the Australia A series, where various top-order ??batters will compete for the opener position.

Also READ: Ian?? Chappell cautions Australia against moving Travis Head up the order? for Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

3 contenders for the opener position for BGT 2024-25

Sam Konstas

Teenage sensation Sam Konstas has emerged as a strong contender for the opener role after his impressive performance in the Sheffield Shield, where he scored twin centuries. At just 19 years old, Konstas has made a significant impact in his fifth first-class match, becoming the youngest player to achieve this feat in a Shield game since a young Ricky Ponting did so in 1993. His e??xceptional talent and recent form make him a compelling choice for the Australian selectors.

Marcus Harris

Marcus Harris has also put his name forward for the opening spot, be?ginning the season with an impressive 29th first-class century, scoring 143 against Tasmania ?at Junction Oval. His experience and proven track record in domestic cricket make him a viable option as Australia looks to strengthen its batting lineup for the series against India.

Cameron Bancroft

Cameron Bancroft, while having a disappointing outing against Queensland—failing to score in both innings—remains in the mix for the opener position. His experience at the international level and prior contributions to the Aust?ralian team could still see him con??sidered as a backup option, depending on how he performs in the upcoming matches.

Also READ: Glenn Maxwell picks three game-changers for Team India ahead of Bo??rder-?Gavaskar Trophy 2024-25

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Hobart Hurricanes emerged victorious over the Sydney Thunder in Match 21 of the Big Bash League 2023-24 at the Bellerive Oval securing a seven-wicket win. However, it was not just the match’s outcome that captured the crowd’s attention; it was the standout moment involving an Indian-origin player representing the Hurricanes. The atmosphere at the stadium was electrified when this talented cricketer celebrated his maiden BBL wicket with a unique Punjabi celebration.

Indian player’s noteworthy celebration

The captivating moment unfolded on the last ball of the fifth over during Thunder’s batting, when all-rounder Nikhil Chaudhary delivered a masterful flighted ball drifting precisely on the stumps. In response, batter Cameron Bancroft endeavoured to drive the leather along t?he ground elegantly, yet the cue end of his bat sent the ball spiralling back towards Chaudhary. The 27-year-old showcased remarkable reflexes and pulled off a stunning catch in the follow-through, leaving the crowd in awe.

What ensued was not just a jubilant celebration but a unique touch of cultural flair as Chaudhary marked his maiden tournament scalp with a Punjabi tap-on-lap celebration, infusing the cricketing arena with a vibrant and diverse spirit. It’s noteworthy that the latter stands as the second Indian to grace BBL, adding another layer of significance to his impactful performance on the field.

Here is the video:

First BBL wicket for Nikhil Chaudhary 🙌

You've got to admire the celebration too! #BBL13 pic.twitter.com/PeD4cTiKYY

— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) January 1, 2024

Also READ – BBL|13: Marcus Stoinis shine as Melbourne Stars prevail against Adelaide S??trikers

Hurricanes’ total domination over Thunders

Hurricanes displayed a commanding performance, asserting dominance over Thunders throughout the game. The hosts first showcased their bowling prowess by restricting the Chris Green-led side to a less-than-competitive total of 150 runs in their allotted 20 overs. Subsequently, their batters t??hen capitalized on the foundation laid by their bowlers, successfully chasing down the target with seven wickets in hand and a significant 11 balls to spare.

Also READ: Vetera?n spinner Nathan Lyon picks three best batters he has played against

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

David Warner, the dynamic left-handed batter from Australia, has left an indelible mark on world cricket with his aggressive and entertaining style of play. Despite a batting technique seemingly tailored for limited-overs cricke?t, Warner has endeavored to become a sought-after figure in the Test arena.

David Warner’s Test legacy

Having made his Test debut in 2011, Warner swiftly solidified his position at the forefront of the Australian batting order. Renowned for his explosive strokeplay and remarkable consistency, Warner has been pivotal in steering his team to victories, showcasing an ability to adapt to diverse conditions and oppositions crucial to Australia’s success in Test matches. His aggressive approach consistently puts opposition bowlers on the back foot, establishing him as a formidable force in the Test arena.

Accumulating a significant tally of runs in Test cricket over the years, Warner, with 8487 runs in 109 Tests, 25 centuries, and 36 half-centuries, is poised to retire from the longest format in January next year. The upcoming third Test of Pakistan’s tour in Sydney will mark Warner’s final appearance in red-ball cricket.

Also READ: Test captain Shan Masood reveals Pakistan’s batting order for the upcoming Australia tour

Ricky Ponting picks an ideal replacement of Warner

With Warner’s impending departure, a notable void emerges at the opening slot, prompting speculation about his successor. Former Australian captain and cricket legend Ricky Ponting has weighed in on the discussion, singling out a player he deems capable of filling Warner’s shoes.

Ponting’s choice for Warner’s successor is Cameron Bancroft, the leading run-scorer in the domestic Sheffield Shield competition. Bancroft has amassed an impressive 945 runs, nearly 300 more than the closest contender from the previous summer. Despite being overlooked for a batting spot in Australia’s Ashes squad in June, Ponting believes Bancroft’s prolific domestic form warrants a Test recall.

As contenders like Marcus Harris and Matt Renshaw vie for the opening position alongside Usman Khawaja after Warner’s farewell at the SCG, Ponting emphasizes Bancroft’s sheer weight of runs, asserting that he should be the leading candidate.

“If you look at those three guys, I think it’s quite clear that Bancroft is the one that’s got the runs on the board and I wouldn’t be surprised if they [selectors] go that way. If you wind the clock back about six months it might have been a slightly different order than what it is now,” Ponting told SEN on Thursday.

“I think they probably had Harris as the one that would come back in a while ago. To me now it sort of feels [there’s] a bit more of a groundswell behind Cameron Bancroft getting first crack,” he added.

Also READ: IND vs AUS – Matthew Wade names the ‘best T20 player’ of Australia

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

In a thrilling encounter at the iconic W.A.C.A. Ground in Perth, Western Australia emerged victorious against Victoria by 51 runs in the Sheffield Shield 2023-24 clash. The highlight of the match was Cameron Bancroft‘s breathtaking century and a stunning catch that dismissed Victorian skipper Will Sutherland.

The spectacular catch

Bancroft showcased his batting prowess by smashing a brilliant ton. The right-handed opener played a remarkable innings, scoring 122 runs off 319 balls. His century set the tone for Western Australia’s dominant performance.

Apart from his batting heroics, Bancroft displayed his fielding skills with a sensational catch. The incident occurred during Victoria’s second innings when Liam Haskett was bowling the 75th over. Sutherland attempted to hook a short del??ivery, but his timing was off. Bancroft, positioned at short l?eg, exhibited quick reflexes and leaped at the perfect moment to take a stunning catch.

Also READ: Asian Games 2023 – India clinch gold medal after rain abandons their final against Afghanistan

Here is the video:

Cameron Bancroft 😲

That is a something special under the lid at short leg #SheffieldShield pic.twitter.com/2kHChKKrtb

— cricket.com.au (@cricketcomau) October 7, 2023

Western Australia thrash Victoria

Speaking about the contest, Western Australia won the toss and chose to bowl first, successfully bundling out Victoria for 256 runs in their first innings. Travis Dean was the top-scorer for Victoria with a well-fought 87, while Aaron Hardie was the ??standout bowler for Western Australia, picking up three crucial wi?ckets.

In response, Western Australia posted a massive total of 481 runs, led by Bancroft’s century. Teague Wyllie contributed 94 runs, falling just six runs short of his century. Jayden Goodwin and Ashton Turner also made valuable? contributions with scores of 63 and 57, respectively??.

Victoria, trailing by 225 runs, struggled in their second innings and were bowled out for 172 runs, leading to a resounding innings and 53-run victory for Western Australia. Corey Rocchiccioli was the star with?? the ball, taking three wickets for just 14 runs.

Also READ: From 112/2 to 156 – Fans react to Afghanistan’s sudden collapse against Bangladesh in ODI World Cup 2023

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.

Australia’s cricket enthusiasts are in for a treat this month as the Australia A side prepares to square off against their trans-Tasman rivals New Zealand A for a thrilling series of matches. The action-packed l?eg will feature two four-day games and three one-day internationals across Brisbane and Mackay.

On Wednesday (August 9), Australia A announced their squad for both formats and appointed Marnus Labuschagne as the captain of the 50-over format for the Kiwi challenge. It is worth mentioning that Labuschagne was not included in the country’s preliminary 18-member squad for the ODI World Cup in India later this year. However, the series against New Zealand A will provide him with a valuable opportunity to showcase his skills and leadership abilities.

Apart from Labuschagne, nine other players within the 50-over team also boast the experience of international cricket. The newly appointed skipper will be supported by a formidable cast of players like Matthew Kuhnemann, Ben McDermott, Todd Murphy, and Matt Renshaw, all of whom have donned the Australian colours recently. Additionally, prominent names like Josh Philippe, Ashton Turner, Wes Agar, Gurinder Sandhu, and Ben Dwarshuis are the other names???? with international exposure in the one-dayers squad.

Also READ: Pakistan announces an 18-man squad for ??the Asia Cup 2023 and Afghanistan ODIs

Cameron Bancroft gets the opportunity to stake his claim in the regular Test squad:

On the other hand, The four-day format squad centres around Cameron Bancroft. The opening batter will be looking to seize the opportunity to stake his claim for the soon-to-be vacant Australia Test opening spot, which is set to open up following David Warner‘s retirement. With fellow contenders Matt Renshaw and Marcus Harris opting for a well-deserved rest from the series, Bancroft’s performance in the four-day games against New Zealand A could significantly influence his prospects for joining Australia’s regular Test side.

Bancroft will be supported by an impressive array of talent, including players like Wes Agar, Mark Steketee and others in the Australia A s??quad for t??he four-day games.

As far as the fixtures are concerned, the series will commence with a four-day game on August 28, followed by the second match on September 4. Meanwhile, t?he three one-dayers will take place on the 10th, 13th, and 15t?h September, respectively.

Also READ: Suryakumar Yadav sh??ares insights into his ODI struggles

Australia A squad:

Australia A four-day squad: We?s Agar, Cameron Bancroft??, Jordan Buckingham, Ben Dwarshuis, Caleb Jewell, Campbell Kellaway, Matthew Kelly, Matthew Kuhnemann, Nathan McAndrew, Nathan McSweeney, Joel Paris, Jimmy Peirson, Mitch Perry, Josh Philippe, Mark Steketee, Mitchell Swepson, Tim Ward

Australia A one-day squad: Wes Agar, Ollie Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Liam Hatcher, Matthew Kuhne??mann, Marnus Labuschagne, Ben McDermott, Todd Murphy, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw, Gurinder Sa??ndhu, Matt Short, Mark Steketee, Will Sutherland, Ashton Turner

For latest cricket news & updates, visit betvisa68.com.