The Qualifier 1 brought out some great news for the MI Cape Town as they entered the final of the league for the first time since the prestigious SA20 2025 came into being in the year 2022. However, the match had a remarkable individual milestone for Cape Town skipper Rashid Khan to achieve.

With an absolute stunner which bowled out Dunith Wellalage in the 10th over of the Paarl Royals, Rashid became the highest wicket-taker in T20 cricket combining the various leagues he has played in and his international appearances for Afghanistan. With this historic record to his name and another crucial dismissal of Dinesh Karthik, Rashid no?w has a total of 633 wickets to his name in the shortest format ?of the game. In the light of this brilliant record in T20 cricket, here is a list of the highest wicket-takers in T20 cricket.

Top 5 leading wicket-takers in the T20 format 

(1) Rashid Khan (633 wickets in 461 matches):

Without a doubt, Rashid is a generational talent for Afghanistan who has set the benchmark for the youth of his country in terms of cricketing ability. However, more than an inspirational figure, his records are equally impressive in T20 cricket. R?ashid has now bagged the most wickets in the shortest format of the game in the fewest appearances across different leagues he has played and for his national side combined. The remarkable bowler has a lot more years of cricket left in him and it is anticipated that he is not going to set a new standard as a marquee bow??ler in T20 cricket.

(2) Dwayne Bravo (631 wickets in 582 matches):

Dwayne Bravo is another name in the list of the leading wicket-takers in T20 cricket. The 41-year-old has played for different franchises across the globe including the likes of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), for Melbourne Renegades in the Big Bash League (BBL), for Lahore Qalandars in Pakistan Super League (PSL) and Chittagong Kings in Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) amongst others and managed to outshine other seasoned cam?paigners of T20 cricket.

(3) Sunil Narine ( 574 wickets in 536 matches):

Sunil Narine emerged as a major force in T20 cricket during his time with the West Indies national team and for the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL. Narine was a bone of contention for batters due to his unconventional bowling tactic and the ability to turn the bowl in adverse conditions. His dynamic style of play was a crucial asset for the long set of franchise he has represented during the course of his career. Without a doubt, Nar??ine is one of the most impactful spin bowlers in T20 cricket.

Also Read: Rashid Khan?? surpasses form??er CSK legend to achieve a historic milestone in T20 cricket

(4) Imran Tahir (531 wickets in 428 matches):

Imran Tahir has played in different parts of the world but his sharpness with the bowl and lethal deliveries have been a constant throughout the course of his career. The 45-year-old is still a force to reckon with on his day and his latest appearances in the SA20 2025 for the Joburg Super Kings is a proof of h?is cri??cketing ability and majestic display with the bowl.

(5) Shakib Al Hasan (492 wickets in 444 matches):

Shakib Al Hasan may have begun his career as a batting all-rounder for Bangladesh, but as his career progresse??d the former skipper of the Bangladesh national team has cemented his place as a spin bowler in the various teams he has played as well. Shakib h?as a bowling average of 21.49 in the T20 format which places him right in the mix as one of the most remarkable all-rounders the game has ever seen.

Also Watch: Dewald Brevis reacts to fan’s unbelievable one-handed catch w?orth of 2 million ?in SA20 2025

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Afghanistan‘s superstar leg-spinner Rashid Khan has reached a remarkable milestone, setting a new world record in T20 cricket.

A record-breaking feat for Rashid Khan

Playing for MI Cape Town in the SA20 2025 League in South Africa, Rashid claimed two crucial wickets in a match against Paarl Royals, surpassing West Indies’ legendary all-rounder Dwayne Bravo to become the highest wicket-taker in T20 history. With this achievement, Rashid’s total tally of wickets across international T20s and franchise leagues has now reached 633 wickets. Among these, Rashid has taken 161 wickets for Afghanistan in T20 Internationals, while securing 472 wickets in various T20 franchise leagues and domestic competitions worldwide. This makes him the most prolific bowler in the shortest format of the game, reaffirming his status as one of the greatest T20 players of all time.

The landmark match: Rashid’s crucial wickets

Rashid’s record-breaking moment came in the SA20 2025 Qualifier 1 at St George’s Park, Gqeberha. Leading the Cape Town, Rashid surpassed Bravo’s tally of 631 wickets when he dismissed Sri Lankan all-rounder Dunith Wellalage. Shortly after, he removed experienced Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik, further cementing his place in the record books. In the same match, MI Cape Town’s bowling attack, including Trent Boult, Kagiso Rabada and Corbin Bosch, played a key role in restricting the Royals to 160 in 19.5 overs, securing a 39-run victory and a place in the ??SA20 final. Rashid’s spell saw him return figures of 2/33 in four overs,?? adding another memorable chapter to his already illustrious career.

Also READ: Hash?matullah Sh??ahidi to lead as Afghanistan announces squad for the Champions Trophy 2025

Rashid’s T20 career in numbers

Rashid’s meteoric rise in T20 cricket has been nothing short of spectacular. The Afghan spin wizard has been a match-winner for every team he has represented. In his T20 career so far, he has played a total of 461 matches and taken 633 wickets. His impressive bowling average of 18.07 reflects his consistency in picking wickets, while his best bowling figures of 6/17 highlight his ability to single-handedly dismantle opposition lineups. Rashid has recorded four five-wicket hauls and 16 four-wicket hauls, further proving his dominance as a wicket-taking bowl??er.

What makes him even more dangerous is his remarkable economy rate of 6.50 runs per over, which is exceptionally low for a bowler who operates in the shortest and most explosive format of the game. Among active cricketers, Rashid Khan is in a league of his own, with the next-highest wicket-taker in T20 cricket being Sunil Narine of West Indies, who has 574 wickets from 536 matches. Rashid’s dominance?? in T20 bowling is unparalleled, and at just 26 years old, he has the potential to become the first bowler in history to reach 1,000 T20 wickets if he remains injury-free.

Rashid’s journey from Afghanistan to T20 stardom

Rashid Khan’s T20 journey began in 2015 when he made his debut for Afghanistan at the age of 17 against Zimbabwe. Over the years, he has transformed into one of the most sought-after players in global T20 leagu??es. His ability to deliver sharp, deceptive leg-spin, along with his control and variations, has made him a match-winner across formats. Rashid has represented several elite T20 franchises across the world, making an impact in almost every major league.

In the Indian Premier League (IPL), he has played for Gujarat Titans (GT) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), becoming a vital part of their bowling attacks. In the Big Bash League (BBL), he has been a dominant force for the Adelaide Strikers. His presence has also been felt in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), where he has represented Barbados Royals and Guyana Amazon Warriors.

In the SA20 League, he currently leads Cape Town, while in England’s The Hundred, he has been a key player for Trent Rockets. Additionally, he has featured in the International League T20 (ILT20) for MI Emirates and Major League Cricket (MLC) for Los Angeles Knight Riders. His im?pact in franchise cricket has been massive, making him a top pick in almost every major T20 league ?worldwide.

Also READ: SA20 2025: A complete gu??ide to Indian, Afghanistan and Sri La?nkan players participating in the Season 3

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T20 cricket has transformed the sport into a fast-paced spectacle where players�?performances have redefined the boundaries of batt?ing an??d bowling.

T20 cricket: Revolutionizing the game through exceptional performances

This format has witnessed batters playing audacious shots, accelerating scoring rates, and showcasing unmatched innovation. On the bowling front, players have developed clever variations, from pinpoint yorkers to deceptive slower balls, making the format a thrilling contest of strategy and execution. Players like AB de Villiers, Chris Gayle, Rashid Khan and Jasprit Bumrah have not only entertained fans bu??t also taken the game to an entirely new level with their consistency and ability to perform under pressure. These cricketers have set benchmarks that inspire future generations to push limits and bring further in?novation to the sport.

Ravichandran Ashwin names ‘most valuable T20 batter in the world’

Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has lauded England opener Phil Salt as one of the ‘most valuable T20 batters in the world.’ Ashwin shared these remarks in a video on his YouTube channel.

Despite Ashwin’s high praise, he acknowledged that Salt isn’t entering the series in peak form. The recently retired off-spinner highlighted that Salt’s performances in the ongoing International League T20 (ILT20) 2025 for the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders were underwhelming. Salt managed to score a struggling 70 in three appearances, which didn’t match the expectations set by his reputation as a game-changer in T20 cricket.

“Phil Salt played for Abu Dhabi Knight Riders. We can say that he could be the most valuable T20 batter in the world. So, if we look at his performance considering that, he is not coming in with a very good form. He scored a 70 and it was a very struggling 70,” Ashwin said.

Also READ: Monty Panesar picks Gaut?am Gambhir’s potential replacement ??as India’s red-ball coach

Salt, who made his T20I debut in 2022 against the West Indies, has become a pivotal part of England’s batting lineup. With 38 T20I matches under his belt, he has amassed 1106 runs at a phenomenal strike rate of 165.32. His aggressive approach at the top of the order and his ability to adapt to various match situations make him a significant asset for his side.

Also READ: Sourav Ganguly names the greatest wh????ite-ball player of all-time

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India all-rounder Hardik Pandya once again stole the show in the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a prestigious domestic T20 competition. Hardik played a blistering knock of 69 runs from just 30 balls, propelling Baroda to an exhilarating victory over Tamil Nadu.

Hardik’s explosive innings came at a crucial time, as Baroda were in a difficult position at 152 for 6 in the 16th over while chasing a daunting target of 222. Hardik’s calm yet powerful approach in the final overs proved to be the game-changer, as he single-handedly swung the match in Baroda’s favor.

Hardik Pandya asserts dominance over Gurjapneet Singh

Hardik’s arrival at the crease was nothing short of dramatic. Facing Gurjapneet Singh, the young Chennai Super Kings (CSK) recruit who had earlier gained attention for dismissing Virat Kohli in the n?ets, Pandya took no time to assert his dominance. In a remarkable display of power hitting, Hardik smashed four consecutive sixes off Singh’s bowling, followed by a boundary, accumulating a massive 29 runs from t??he over.

Hardik’s stunning onslaught reduced the required target to just 36 runs from 18 balls. He didn’t stop there; he continued his aggressive assault, striking three more sixes and adding three boundaries, ultimately guiding Baroda to a thrilling seven-wicket victory in a match that came down to the last ball.

Here is the video:

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One goes out of the park 💥

Power & Panache: Hardik Pandya i?s setting the stage on fire in Indore 🔥🔥

Can he win it for Baroda?

Scorecard ▶️ //t.co/DDt2Ar20h9#SMAT | @IDFCFIRSTBank pic.twitter.com/Bj6HCgJIHv

— BCCI Domestic (@BCCIdomestic) November 27, 2024

Also READ: Mumbai Indians IPL 2025 Squad: Complete players list of MI after the mega ?auction

Positive signs ahead of IPL 2025

With the IPL 2025 season approaching, Hardik’s fiery performance in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has raised the stakes for the Mumbai Indians (MI) fans. Hardik, who has been retained as MI�??�s captain for the 2024 season, showcased his explosive form just ahead of the IPL, a sign that h??e could be primed for a strong return to action.

After a dynamic domestic performance, MI fans are hopeful that Hardik will bring his all-round abilities to the fore in IPL 2025 and lead his team to glory once again. His con?fidence, power hitting, and leadership qualities are expected to make him a key figure in MI’s pursuit of the IPL title in the coming season.

Also READ: “Aai shapat, maza aali!”: Trent Boult reacts after Mumbai Indians acquires the New Zealand pacer at IPL 2025 mega auction

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Heinrich Klaasen is renowned for his explosive batting and remarkable consistency in all formats of the game. Known for his ability to take on any bowler right from the start, the South African star possesses a solid technique that allows him to dominate both fast bowlers and spinners with ease. His aggressive style of play, coupled with his ability to accelerate in any situation, makes him a dangerous player in the T20 format, capable of turning ??the game around in a matter of overs.

Off the field, Klaasen contrasts his on-field aggression with a calm and composed personality. This side of him was on full display during a recent fun Q&A session, where he discussed various aspects of his career, his influences, and personal life. In the chat with Jio Cinema, Klaase??n answered ??some intriguing questions, giving fans a glimpse into his mindset.

Heinrich Klaasen picks the toughest bowler in T20s

One of the key moments during the conversation was when Klaasen was asked about the toughest bowler to face in T20 cricket. Without hesitation, Klaasen named India’s pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah as the bowler he finds most challenging to hit. Bumrah’s precision and a?bility to bowl under pressure make him a difficult opponent for any batter, and Klaasen acknowledged this with his choice.

Q: Who is the toughest bowler to hit out in T20s?
Klaasen: Jasprit Bumrah

Klaasen names a batter who can smash double century in the shortest format

While Klaasen is undoubtedly known for his own ability to score big in the T20 format, he didn’t choose himself when asked to name a batter who could potentially slam a double century in the shortest format of the game. Instead, Klaasen picked West Indies star Nicholas Pooran, praising his explosive bat??ting capabilities and the sh?eer power he brings to the game.

Notably, Pooran, with his aggressive stroke play and ability to hit boundaries at will, has often been a game-changer in T20 cricket. Klaasen’s choice reflects Pooran’s knack for playing fearless cricket and his potential to turn a game on its head, particularly in conditions where the ball comes onto the bat well. Pooran’s ability to play innovative shots and accumulate runs quickly makes him a strong contender to achieve somethin??g as remarkable as a double century in T20 cricket, an achievement that remains rare but certainly within Pooran’s reach.

Q: One batter who can score a double hundred in T20 cricket?
Klaasen: Nicholas Pooran

Also READ: Herschelle Gibbs predicts the scoreline of South? Africa versus India T20I series

Klaasen’s inspirations from other sports and cricket legends

In addition to discussing his batting preferences, Klaasen was asked a few more intriguing questions that shed light on his inspirations and personal choices. When asked about an athlete from another sport whom he looks up to, Klaasen chose the Formula 1 superstar Lewis Hamilton. Hamilton’s consistency, record-breaking career, and influence both on and off the track make him a source of inspiration for many sports personalities.

Q: One athlete from another sport you look up to?
Klaasen: Lewis Hamilton

The next question focused on a batter Klaasen would pick to bat for his life—a scenario where the stakes couldn’t be higher. Without hesitation, Klaasen named South African cricket legend Hashim Amla, who was known for his calm demeanor, incredible technique, and ability to play l??ong innings.

Q: If you had to pick one batter to bat for your life, who would it be?
Klaasen: Probably, Hashim Amla

Also WATCH: SA vs IND – Varun Chakravarthy removes Heinrich Klaasen, David Miller off consecutive balls in the 2nd T20I

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Romario Shepherd, the powerful West Indies all-rounder, has rapidly emerged as one of the most sought-after players in limited-overs cricket. Known for his explosive batting and handy pace bowling, Shepherd has established himself as a key player for the West Indies across all formats. His ability to clear the boundary with ease, particularly in the death overs, makes him a valuable asset in T20 leagues like the Indian Premier League (IPL). Additionally, his bowling provides crucial balance to any squad, with the potential to take wickets in the middle overs or at the death, depending on team needs. These all-round skills make Ro?mario a prime candidate for IPL franchises looking to strengthen their lower order and add depth to their bowling attack.

With the IPL 2025 mega auction on the horizon, Romario is expected to be a key target for multipl??e franchises in need of a strong all-rounder. His impressive performances in T20 cricket have caught the eye of several teams, and his ability to impact both batting and bowling makes him an ideal fit for franchises looking for versatility. Whether it’s providing the finishing touches with the bat or adding pace and aggression with the ball, Romario’s presence could elevate any IPL squad, making him one of the most valuable players in the upcoming auction.

3 franchises who can go after Romario Shepherd in IPL 2024

Punjab Kings (PBKS)

As the team with the highest purse heading into the IPL 2025 mega auction, Punjab Kings (PBKS) have the financial flexibility to make significant buys. One of their key areas of concern in the previous season was the ??lack of a reliable finisher who could accelerate the scoring in the final overs. Romario, with his powerful batting and ability to p?lay in high-pressure situations, is the perfect candidate to fill this gap.

Shepherd’s aggressive batting in the death overs, where he can hit clean and long, will be invaluable for PBKS. His ability to turn games around with quickfire innings in the latter stages of an innings adds balance to any batting lineup. Additionally, Romario’s pace bowling provides depth to the team’s attack, making him a well-rounded option to complement PBKS’s existing squad. His experience in international cricket and his all-round capabilities make him a top target for the Kings as they look to strengthen their middle and lower order.

Also RE??AD: 3 teams that can target Yuzven??dra Chahal in the IPL 2025 mega auction

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG)

Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) find themselves in need of a power hitter down the order following the release of Marcus Stoinis, who was an important figure in their middle order. With the pressure? of maintaining a solid finishing capability, LSG will be keen to sign a player who can consistently strike big, and Romario could be the perfect solution.

Romario’s exp??losive hitting ability in the latter stages of an innings, along with his handy bowling skills, makes him a strong candidate for the Super Giants. Notably, he has played for LSG in the past and their home ground, Ekana Stadium, is known for its slow tracks, and ?Romario’s pace and bounce will be particularly effective in these conditions. His ability to extract bounce and swing, combined with his destructive batting style, would make him a key player for LSG, giving them the much-needed firepower to challenge in the crucial middle and death overs.

Gujarat Titans (GT)

Although Gujarat Titans (GT) have retained Shahrukh Khan, who brings power-hitting skills to the lower order, they are still in need of a well-rounded all-rounder who can make a difference with both bat and ball. Romario is the typ??e of player who can fulfill this role. As an explosive hitter and a skilled bowler, Romario brings balance to the side, making him an attractive option for the Titans.

The bouncy tracks at the Narendra Modi Stadium would suit Shepherd’s game, where he can play a??n important role with the bat by clearing the boundaries in the final overs. His pace bowling is also an asset, offering the Titans flexibility in their bowling attack. Romario’s ability to adapt to different match situ?ations and his strong performances in various formats make him a potential key player for GT, who will be looking to bolster their all-round strength ahead of the 2025 season. Adding a dynamic player like Shepherd to their squad could provide the Titans with the depth and versatility required to defend their title successfully.

Also READ: 3 te??ams that can target Prasidh Krishna in the IPL 2025 mega auction

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The Indian Premier League (IPL) is set to witness an unprecedented twist in its 2025 season, with the inclusion of cricket legends and emerging stars alike. The p??layer auction, scheduled for November 24 and 25 in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, will feature 1,574 cricketers, including 1,165 Indian pl?ayers and 409 overseas talents.

James Anderson registers for IPL auction

Amidst this vast talent pool, one name stands out: James Anderson. At 42, the legendary English fast bowler, who retired from international ?cricket earlier this year with a remarkable 704 Test wickets, has thrown his hat into the IPL ring for the first time, setting a base price of INR 1.25 crore.

Anderson’s registration has stunned fans and experts alike. With no prior experience in global franchise T20 leagues and a limited T20 career—his last appearance in the format was for Lancashire in 2014—Anderson’s choice to enter the IPL auction signals his intention to make a surprising final mark on the game. Here’s a closer look at five franchises that could be potential suitors for the English veteran, who could bring not only his skills but also his invaluable cricketing wisdom to any team’s lineup.

5 franchises who can go after Anderson in IPL 2025 auction

Also READ: James Anderson among 1574 players to ?register for IPL 20??25 Auction

1. Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are famously known for their preference for experienced and seasoned players, often dubbed a team where ‘age is just a number.’ Having retained young speedster Matheesha Pathirana, CSK could still benefit from a wise head like Anderson to bring depth and leadership to their bowling attack. Given Anderson’s skill in swinging the ball and his meticulous approach, he could help CSK build a well-rounded bowling unit.

CSK’s team management and former captain, MS Dhoni, appreciate players with tactical acumen and versatility, qualities that Anderson embodies. In addition to his bowling role, Anderson could serve as a mentor to the younger bowlers, especially Pathirana, providing invaluable insights into line, length, and game strategy. His mentorship would align perfectly with CSK’s approach, making him a valuable double asset both on and off the field.

2. Rajasthan Royals (RR)

Rajasthan Royals (RR) have traditionally placed their faith in English players, with stars like Jos Buttler, Jofra Archer, and Ben Stokes having donned the RR jersey. This franchise has developed a reputation for valuing the English style of cricket, and Anderson would seamlessly fit into that legacy. His inclusion would not only bolster RR’s bowling options but also bring a high level of cricketing intellect to their squad.

The Royals often look for players who can contribute both tactically and skillfully, making Anderson a desirable pick. As a pace bowler who understands line and length like few others, Anderson could form a solid partnership with RR’s existing bowlers, creating a strong backbone for their bowling lineup. His experience would provide a steady hand in crunch situations, and his insights could help shape the team’s younger bowlers into future stars.

3. Punjab Kings (PBKS)

With only two players retained and the highest auction purse among all teams, Punjab Kings (PBKS) are primed to make a splash in the 2025 auction. Known for their aggressive bids on high-profile players, PBKS could very well set their sights on Anderson. His inclusion would add a mature presence to Punjab’s bowling department and could serve as the linchpin around which they build a more balanced attack.

In recent years, PBKS has shown a preference for English talent, acquiring players like Sam Curran, Jonny Bairstow, and Liam Livingstone. Anderson would continue this trend while bringing his unique skill set to the table. In particular, PBKS would benefit from Anderson’s ability to take control in high-pressure situations, offering stability to their often inconsistent bowling lineup. His technical advice would be invaluable, and his sheer experience could make Punjab a formidable bowling force in the tournament.

4. Gujarat Titans (GT)

The IPL 2022 champions, Gujarat Titans (GT), are undergoing a significant rebuilding phase, having released several key bowlers, including Joshua Little, Mohammad Shami, and Mohit Sharma. This puts GT in urgent need of a top-tier bowler who can lead their attack, and Anderson could be the answer. His wealth of experience and understanding of the game would provide stability and direction to GT’s bowling lineup.

In the previous season, GT struggled with consistency in their bowling, and Anderson’s technical expertise could help them address this issue. Known for his ability to exploit even the slightest weaknesses in batters, Anderson could bring a strategic edge to GT’s bowling unit, helping them maintain pressure throughout their innings. Furthermore, his presence would be beneficial for younger bowlers, who could learn from his experience and fine-tune their skills, potentially elevating GT’s overall performance.

5. Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

The possibility of Virat Kohli and Anderson—once fierce rivals on the international stage—playing together for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) woul??d be a major draw for fans worldwide. The mutual respect between Kohli and Anderson has grown over years of ??intense battles on the field, and their combination would bring unparalleled excitement to IPL 2025. For RCB, a team often criticized for an inconsistent bowling attack, Anderson could bring much-needed discipline and depth.

RCB has retained a promising young bowler, Yash Dayal, who could greatly benefit from Anderson’s mentorship. Anderson’s expertise in bowling in the death overs and managing high-pressure situations would provide RCB with a tactical advantage they have long sought. His presence would also create a unique learning environment for the team’s bowlers, giving RCB a chance to build a strong bowling foundation with Anderson as the cornerstone.

Also READ: F??rom Shreyas Iyer to KL Rahul: Best playing XI of released players ahead of IPL 2025 auction

Notably, the addition of Anderson to the IPL 2025 roster has set the stage for an intriguing auction, with numerous teams likely considering his vast experience and potential impact on their lineups. Despite his limited T20 background, Anderson’s skill, insight, and cricketing wisdom make him a highly valuable player both on and off the field. Whichever franchise secures Anderson could gain not only a seasoned bowler but a mentor whose influence might shape the next generation of IPL talent.

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William O’Rourke, the towering six-foot five-inch pacer from New Zealand, made headlines with his exceptional bowling performance on Day 2 of the first Test against India. At the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, O’Rourke led New Zealand’s attack and dismantled the Indian batting lineup, which was bowled out for just 46 runs �?the third-lowest total in India’s Test history.

Impressive track record despite limited experience

O’Rourke was the standout bowler, claiming four crucial wickets, including prized scalps of Virat Kohli, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and KL Rahul. Despite being relatively new to the international cricket scene, he has shown consistent improvement. Since making his First-Class debut in 2022, he has played five Test matches and picked ?up 23 wickets, including two five-wicket hauls.

A hot commodity in the upcoming auction

In T20 cricket, O’Rourke has been equally impressive with 28 wickets in 27 matches. Given his skills and recent success, he is likely to ??be a hot commodity in the IPL 2025 auctions, as many teams are on the lookout for a premier fast bowler.

3 teams who can target Will O’Rourke in the IPL 2025 auction

1. Delhi Capitals

Delhi Capitals (DC) have shown a strong preference for fast bowlers who can consistently bowl at high speeds, and O’Rourke could be a perfect addition to their squad. With the upcoming auction, DC will be looking to strengthen their pace attack, especially after witnessing O’Rourke’s recent performances against India. Pairing him with the likes of Anrich Nortje, who is already a key figure in the Delhi lineup, could create a lethal fast-bowling combination that troubles any batting ?order. O’Rourke’s ability to extract bounce and movement due to his height can make him an ideal bowler, especially on pitches that offer some assistance to quicks.

The conditions at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, known for its slightly slower pitches, might wor??k to O’Rourke’s advantage. With his ability to vary his pace and generate awkward bounce, he could become a crucial asset in DC’s bowling arsenal. Additionally, the team management’s recent emphasis on grooming young and promising players means O’Rourke would not only get a chance to develop further but also form a formidable partnership with Nortje, making Delhi’s pace attack one of the most potent in the tournament.

Also READ: 3 teams who can target Dunith Wellalage in the IPL 2025 ?auction

2. Punjab Kings

Punjab Kings (PBKS) have traditionally relied on their fast bowlers to set the tone, and the upcoming auction presents them with an opportunity to further bolster their lineup. Last season, PBKS relied heavily on Kagiso Rabada and Nathan Ellis, both of whom were effective in different conditions. However, with fitness concerns and the need for depth, a??dding a tall, skillful pacer like O’Rourke would make a lot of sense for the franchise. His ability to swing the ball, coupled with his height, could offer a different dimension to Punjab’s bowling unit, ensuring that they have a well-rounded attack that can handle various situations.

The fast-bowling friendly conditions at Mohali, PBKS’s home ground, are likely to play to O’Rourke’s strengths. Mohali’s pitch traditionally offers bounce and pace, elements that O’Rourke could exploit to full effect. The New Zealand bowler’s ability to use the new ball and deliver crucial breakthroughs would provide PBKS with the cutting edge they have sometimes lacked in the middle overs. In O’Rourke, Punjab could find a reliable pacer who adds depth and ensures their bowling attack remains competitive throughout the tournament.

3. Royal Challengers Bengaluru

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) have had their share of struggles with their bowling lineup over the years, often struggling to find a balance that complements their explosive batting unit. In the IPL 2024, RCB fielded an impressive lineup of fast bowlers, including Lockie Ferguson, Mohammed Siraj, and Alzarri Joseph. However, fitness issues ?have often hampered the consistency of their pace attack, and heading into the 2025 auction, they might look to address this by adding a young, fit, and dependable bowler like O’Rourke. His recent success in Bengaluru during the Test series ag??ainst India makes him a prime candidate to shine at the Chinnaswamy Stadium, a ground not known for favoring bowlers.

While the Chinnaswamy pitch is generally favorable to batsmen, O’Rourke’s performance there in the red-ball format indicates he has what it takes to succeed even on challenging surfaces. His ability to generate bounce and maintain tight lines can add a new dimension to RCB’s bowling unit. Moreover, having already bowled on this ground, he would have a psychological advantage, understanding how to adapt ?his length and pace variations to the shorter format. Adding O’Rourke could not only improve RCB’s bowling lineup but al?so bring a fresh and reliable option to the franchise’s efforts to claim their maiden IPL title.

Also READ: Ravichandran Ashwin p?redicts Rohit Sharma’s potential price in IPL 2025 auction

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Udeshika Prabodhani lit up the Women’s T20 World Cup 2024 with an exceptional delivery that sent Australian opener Alyssa Healy back to the pavilion. The dramatic moment came during the group stage clash between Australia and Sri Lanka on Saturday, October 5, in Sharjah, and it p??rovid??ed an early breakthrough for Sri Lanka.

Udeshika Prabodhani dismisses Alyssa Healy with a cracker of a delivery

The left-arm pacer Prabodhani delivered a peach of a delivery right in the first over, getting rid of the dangerous Healy for just four runs off three balls. The Sri Lankan bowler bowled a full-length delivery aimed at the middle stump, and H??ealy, who was known for her explosive starts, stepped forward in an attempt to push the ball down the ground. However, Prabodhani’s delivery had just enough movement after pitching to beat Healy’s bat, as the ball swung away slightly, crashing into the off-stump.

The sight of Healy, one of the m??ost accomplished and aggressive batters in women’s cricket, walking back to the pavilion with just four runs on the board was a huge boost for Sri Lanka. The early dismissal by Prabodhani exemplified her skill in swinging the ball, even in subcontinental conditions w?here such movement can be hard to find. It was the perfect start for Sri Lanka, and it gave them an opportunity to put the strong Australian batting line-up under pressure.

Here is the video:

What a start for Sri Lanka! 😍

An important wicket as the Aussie skipper, #AlyssaHealy is caught & bowled by P?rabo?dhani! 👀(only available in India)

Watch 👉🏻 #AUSvSL on #WomensWorldCupOnStar | LIVE NOW on Star Sports Network & Disney+Hotstar pic.twitter.com/jTeCwLFMxR

— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) October 5, 2024

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Australia beat Sri Lanka comfortably

Sri Lanka won the toss and chose to bat first, but they found the Australian bowling attack difficult to handle. Despite a promising start, they struggled to build partnerships and ended up managing only 93 runs for the loss of 7 wickets in their allotted 20 overs. Nilakshi de Silva was the standout performer for Sri Lanka, remaining unbeaten on 29 runs, while most other batters struggled to find their rhythm against a disciplined Australian bowling unit. Megan Schutt was particularly effective, delivering an economical spell and claiming three wickets for just 12 runs, while Sophie Molineux supported well with 2 wickets for 20 runs.

In response, Australia faced an early setback when Healy was dismissed cheaply, but they managed to recover comfortably. Beth Mooney anchored the innings with an unbeaten 43 runs, ensuring that Australia stayed on course despite losing a few wickets in the middle. Australia chased down the target in 14.2 overs, scoring 94 runs for the loss of 4 wickets, and securing a comfortable 6-wicket victory. The win highlighted Australia’s batting depth and resilience, even when faced with early pressure.

Also READ: Megan Schut??t sizzles in Australia’s dominant win over Sri Lanka in Women’s T20 World Cup 2024

This article was first published at WomenCricket.com, a Cricket Times company.

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