Cricket news

India takes command in Sydney with Rishabh Pant’s knock, leads by 145 runs against Australia

Published

1 year ago

January 4, 2025

Sydney, Jan 4 — On an action-packed Day 2 of the fifth and final Test between India and Australia at the Sydney Cricket Ground, India seized control of the match, thanks to a breathtaking knock by wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant and a disciplined bowling performance earlier in the day.

India closed the day at 141/6 in their second innings, with Ravindra Jadeja (8*) and Washington Sundar (6*) at the crease. The visitors lead by a substantial 145 runs, putting them in a commanding position to dictate the remainder of the match.

Pant’s explosive knock

Rishabh Pant set the stage ablaze with a scintillating 61 off just 33 balls, reaching his half-century in a mere 29 deliveries—the second-fastest Test fifty by an Indian batter. His blistering innings featured audacious boundaries and towering sixes, including a stylish six off Mitchell Starc to bring up his milestone. Pant’s aggression turned the momentum firmly in India’s favor, unsettling the Australian bowling attack.

Unfortunately for India, Pant’s fireworks came to an end when he edged a wide delivery from Pat Cummins to Alex Carey behind the stumps. Despite his dismissal, Pant’s knock ensured India had a vital lead as they look to consolidate their position.

Bowling brilliance sets the tone

Earlier in the day, India’s bowlers delivered a stellar performance to dismiss Australia for 181 in their first innings. Mohammed Siraj (3/51), Prasidh Krishna (3/42), and Nitish Reddy (2/32) stepped up in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah, who had left the field for scans due to an unspecified injury but later returned to the dressing room. Bumrah still contributed with two crucial wickets (2/33) before leaving the ground.

Australia struggled against India’s disciplined attack, with none of their batters managing to post a significant score. India’s bowlers maintained pressure throughout the innings, ensuring the hosts could only manage a slender four-run lead after the first innings.

Jadeja and sundar hold the fort

Following Pant’s dismissal, India adopted a cautious approach, with Jadeja and Sundar focusing on consolidating the lead. Jadeja displayed his characteristic grit, while Sundar provided steady support at the other end.

Scott Boland was the pick of the Australian bowlers, claiming four wickets and keeping India’s batters on their toes. However, India’s aggressive intent earlier in the innings ensured they stayed ahead in the contest.

Day 3 outlook

As the match progresses, India’s lead of 145 runs puts them in a dominant position. With the pitch showing signs of wear and tear, the onus will be on India’s lower order to extend the lead further. Australia, on the other hand, will need quick wickets early on Day 3 to claw their way back into the match.

Quick highlights from day 2

India’s second innings: 141/6 (Pant 61, Boland 4/36)
Australia’s first innings: 181 all out (Siraj 3/51, Krishna 3/42)
India leads by: 145 runs at stumps.

Day 3 promises to bring another gripping chapter in this thrilling Test match. Stay tuned as India aims to strengthen their hold and Australia fights to stay in the game.

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Cricket news

Who is Sahil Parakh? Teenager makes IPL debut for Delhi Capitals vs RCB

Sahil Parakh, an 18-year-old batter from Maharashtra, made his IPL debut for Delhi Capitals against RCB in IPL 2026.

Published

3 days ago

April 27, 2026

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Sahil Parakh, an emerging batter from Maharashtra, made his Indian Premier League debut for Delhi Capitals during their 2026 match against Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi.

The 18-year-old was handed his maiden cap as the franchise made changes to its playing XI, looking to test fresh talent in a crucial stage of the tournament.

Opens innings alongside KL Rahul

Parakh was included as an opening batter and partnered experienced wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul at the top. The move reflected Delhi Capitals’ intent to experiment with their batting combination and give exposure to young players in high-pressure games.

Short stay at the crease

The debut outing did not last long for the youngster, as he was dismissed early in the innings. Despite the brief appearance, the opportunity marked an important milestone in his career.

Promising name from domestic circuit

Parakh is a left-handed batter who has impressed in age-group and domestic cricket, earning attention for his performances at the state level. His selection in the Delhi Capitals squad for IPL 2026 underlines the franchise’s focus on nurturing young talent for the future.

Cricket news

Who is Praful Hinge? Young pacer who made instant impact with match-turning IPL debut spell

Praful Hinge grabbed attention with a three-wicket over on his IPL debut for Sunrisers Hyderabad.

Published

2 weeks ago

April 14, 2026

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Praful Hinge bowling for Sunrisers Hyderabad in IPL

Praful Hinge is an emerging Indian fast bowler who grabbed attention after a remarkable debut in the Indian Premier League. Representing Sunrisers Hyderabad, the young pacer made headlines by taking three wickets in a single over, a rare and impactful feat in T20 cricket.

His performance came against Rajasthan Royals, where he turned the game with a decisive spell, announcing his arrival on the big stage.

Domestic cricket background

Hinge hails from Nagpur and has been associated with the Vidarbha cricket team in domestic cricket. Like many cricketers rising through India’s competitive system, his progress at the domestic level paved the way for his IPL opportunity.

While detailed statistics from his domestic career remain limited in public reports, his selection in the IPL reflects recognition of his potential and performances.

Bowling style and strengths

Praful Hinge is a right-arm fast bowler known for:

Maintaining a disciplined line and length
Ability to generate movement off the pitch
Effectiveness in short, impactful spells

His debut spell highlighted composure under pressure, especially in a high-intensity league like the IPL.

Breakthrough IPL moment

Making an immediate impact in the IPL is never easy, but Hinge’s three-wicket over on debut stands out as a defining moment. Performances like these often play a key role in shaping a young cricketer’s early career and gaining attention from teams and selectors.

A promising start

Praful Hinge’s debut has positioned him as a young fast bowler to watch. While it is still early in his career, such impactful performances suggest potential for further opportunities in domestic and franchise cricket.

Cricket news

At 15, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi eyes India debut, could surpass Sachin Tendulkar’s record

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi may soon make his India debut after a standout IPL 2026 season with Rajasthan Royals.

Published

2 weeks ago

April 14, 2026

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Rising cricket prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is reportedly on the verge of earning his first senior India call-up following an impressive run in IPL 2026. The 15-year-old batter has been shortlisted for the upcoming India tour of Ireland, according to multiple reports.

The young Rajasthan Royals player has quickly emerged as one of the most talked-about talents this season, delivering impactful performances that have caught the attention of selectors.

Strong performances boost selection chances

Sooryavanshi’s explosive batting in IPL 2026 has played a key role in pushing his case for national selection. Representing Rajasthan Royals, the teenager has consistently taken on top bowlers with confidence, showcasing both aggressive stroke play and maturity beyond his age.

Reports suggest he is among several young players being monitored for India’s Ireland tour, with selectors looking to test emerging talent in a relatively shorter series.

Could become youngest India debutant

If selected and given an opportunity, Sooryavanshi could script history by becoming one of the youngest players to represent India at the international level. At just 15, he would surpass long-standing age records set by former greats like Sachin Tendulkar, who debuted at 16.

The potential milestone has added further excitement around the youngster, whose rapid rise through domestic and franchise cricket has been closely followed by fans and experts alike.

Future tours also on radar

Apart from the Ireland series, reports indicate that Sooryavanshi could also be considered for other upcoming assignments later in 2026, including a possible tour of Zimbabwe. His consistent performances and fearless approach have made him a strong contender for continued inclusion in India’s plans.