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Steve Smith announces ODI retirement after Champions Trophy exit

Australia’s Steve Smith has retired from ODIs after leading the team in the Champions Trophy. The veteran batter will now focus solely on Test cricket.

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Steve Smith during an ODI match for Australia

Australia’s veteran batter and former captain Steve Smith has announced his retirement from One Day Internationals (ODIs) following his team’s semi-final exit in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The decision marks the end of an illustrious 170-match ODI career that saw him amass 5720 runs, including 12 centuries, while playing a crucial role in Australia’s two World Cup triumphs.

Smith, who stepped in as captain for the Champions Trophy after Pat Cummins was ruled out due to injury, led Australia to the semi-finals before being eliminated by India. Despite his efforts, including a fighting knock of 73 runs off 96 balls in the crucial semi-final, Australia fell short against Rohit Sharma’s team.

A decision to pave the way for the future

Announcing his retirement, Smith stated that it was the right time to step aside and allow the next generation of Australian cricketers to take charge.

“It feels like the right time to make way. It has been a great ride, and I have loved every minute of it,” Smith expressed. “Test cricket remains a priority, and I am really looking forward to the World Test Championship Final, the West Indies in the winter, and then England at home. I feel I still have a lot to contribute on that stage.”

The 35-year-old’s exit from ODIs means he will not feature in the Australian squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup, marking a significant transition for the national team.

Australia’s struggle and transition phase

During a post-match press conference following the loss to India, Smith reflected on Australia’s journey in the Champions Trophy. He acknowledged that while the team performed well, inexperience—especially in the bowling attack—proved to be a key factor in their exit.

“I think we’ve got pretty good records in big games in ICC events, and I thought the guys turned up and did a really good job. There’s obviously a bit of inexperience in our team, particularly our bowling attack. Some new guys who did well, and they’re going to be better for this exposure to a big event and playing against world-class players.”

With Smith no longer in the ODI setup and not a prominent figure in T20 cricket, his focus will remain solely on Test matches. This follows the recent retirement of David Warner, signaling a period of rebuilding for Australia as they search for players to step into the roles left by these two stalwarts.

A legacy of resilience and excellence

Smith leaves behind a legacy as one of Australia’s finest ODI cricketers, known for his unorthodox technique, adaptability, and composure under pressure. His ability to anchor the innings and guide Australia to crucial victories will be remembered by fans and analysts alike.

As he transitions into a Test-only career, Australian cricket faces a challenge in filling the void left by a player of his caliber.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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Guwahati weather poses threat to RR vs MI blockbuster as rain delays toss

The IPL 2026 clash between Rajasthan Royals and Mumbai Indians faces a delay as the Guwahati weather brings persistent rain to the Barsapara Cricket Stadium.

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Guwahati weather

The much-anticipated Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Mumbai Indians (MI) has hit a weather hurdle. Scheduled to take place at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, the toss for Match 13 has been officially delayed due to persistent rain in the city.

Rain intensifies at Barsapara Stadium

The Guwahati weather has taken a turn for the worse as heavy drizzle forced the groundstaff to keep the pitch and square under covers. While the rain had momentarily eased, allowing for a brief inspection, it returned shortly after, frustrating both fans and players. According to media reports, the probability of rain during match hours has surged to nearly 50%, a significant increase from earlier forecasts.

Cut-off time and over reductions

As the clock ticks, the pressure on the match officials increases. Overs were scheduled to start being reduced from 8:40 PM IST. For those hoping for at least a shortened game, the cut-off time for a minimum five-over-a-side contest has been established at 10:56 PM IST. The city remains under a weather alert, with cloud cover expected to be a major factor throughout the evening.

High-stakes encounter on hold

Rajasthan Royals enter this game with a perfect record, having won their first two matches of the season. On the other hand, Mumbai Indians, led by Hardik Pandya, are looking to bounce back after a mixed start. A key highlight of this match is the potential battle between 15-year-old batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and the experienced Jasprit Bumrah.

Historically, the two teams share a fierce rivalry, with Mumbai holding a slight edge with 16 wins compared to Rajasthan’s 14 in their 31 previous meetings.

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