England squandered a prime opportunity to level the Women’s Ashes series, losing to Australia by 21 runs in a dramatic second ODI at the Junction Oval, Melbourne. Chasing a modest target of 181, England faltered to 159 all out, handing Australia a 4-0 lead in the multi-format series.

With just 22 runs needed and one wicket in hand, England’s hopes rested on Lauren Bell and Amy Jones. However, Bell was bowled by Megan Schutt for one in the penultimate over, completing a collapse from 120-5. Jones remained unbeaten on 47, but a tactical misstep marred England’s chances when Jones failed to capitalize on a free hit following Annabel Sutherland’s removal from the attack for bowling two no-balls in the 48th over.

England’s bowlers had set the stage for a memorable win by dismantling Australia for 180 in 44.3 overs. Sophie Ecclestone excelled with figures of 4-35, while Alice Capsey added 3-22, including the crucial wicket of Ellyse Perry, who top-scored with a composed 60 off 74 balls. Despite Australia losing eight wickets for just 49 runs, England could not capitalize on the opportunity.

The visitors began their chase solidly but suffered a similar collapse. Reduced from 68-2 to 120-5, their batting lineup failed to withstand the pressure. Alana King proved instrumental for Australia, claiming 4-25 to derail England’s innings.

This defeat is a bitter pill for England, whose tactical lapses in high-pressure situations raised concerns ahead of the series’ conclusion. With the final ODI set for January 16 in Hobart, followed by three T20 matches and a one-off Test, England faces an uphill battle to keep their Ashes hopes alive.

In response to India’s lackluster performance during the 2024-25 Test campaign in Australia, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is reportedly set to introduce stricter policies for players and their families during overseas tours. These new regulations aim to maintain focus and discipline within the team environment, particularly on long tours.

As per a report, one of the key changes includes limiting the duration families, especially wives, can stay with players during overseas tours. Previously relaxed rules allowed family members to accompany players for the entire duration of tours. However, the BCCI now plans to reintroduce a pre-2019 regulation, restricting family stays to a maximum of two weeks during a 45-day tour.

Additionally, the BCCI is enforcing team unity by mandating all players to travel in the team bus. Individual travel arrangements will be discouraged, and players will no longer be reimbursed for excessive luggage over 150 kilograms during air travel.

Impact on high-profile figures and families
This decision could significantly impact notable figures like Virat Kohli’s wife, actress Anushka Sharma, and other cricketers’ partners such as Ritika Sajdeh and Athiya Shetty, who are often seen on tours. The BCCI believes these measures will help players maintain a more focused approach to their cricketing commitments.

Gautam Gambhir under scrutiny
Head coach Gautam Gambhir and his manager Gaurav Arora are also facing tighter restrictions. The board reportedly plans to bar Gambhir’s manager from staying in team hotels, sitting in VIP boxes, or traveling in the team bus or associated transport. These measures aim to streamline operations and ensure uniformity in team management practices.

Internal discussions on team future
The future of senior players, including Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, and the tenure of Gambhir’s coaching staff were also major points of discussion during a recent meeting with BCCI officials. The meeting included India’s Test and ODI captain Rohit Sharma, head coach Gautam Gambhir, and selection committee chief Ajit Agarkar.

These sweeping changes underscore the BCCI’s commitment to improving team performance and fostering a disciplined environment as the team prepares for future challenges.

The Australian Open 2025 featured an enthralling first-round match as 19-year-old Nishesh Basavareddy, an Indian-origin American, pushed tennis legend Novak Djokovic to his limits. Under the floodlights of Rod Laver Arena, Basavareddy took the opening set in a match that showcased his promise and Djokovic’s resilience.

Despite eventually falling 4-6, 6-3, 6-4, 6-1, 6-2, Basavareddy left a lasting impression. Djokovic, who was looking to regain his top form with Andy Murray in his corner, acknowledged his opponent’s talent. “He was the better player for a set and a half and deserves all the applause he got. A very complete player with an impressive fighting spirit,” Djokovic remarked.

From Nellore to the global stage

Basavareddy’s roots trace back to Nellore, Andhra Pradesh, with his parents relocating to San Francisco in 1999. Born in Newport Beach, California, and later settling in Carmel, Indiana, Basavareddy’s journey in tennis began at the age of eight.

Mentored by Rajeev Ram, a six-time Grand Slam men’s doubles champion and fellow Indian-origin athlete, Basavareddy quickly honed his skills. Ram described their bond as special, saying, “We’ve formed a neat bond as two kids from this town, both of Indian-American heritage, trying to make it in professional tennis.”

Basavareddy shone at Stanford University, competing in the NCAA Division 1 program. He soon transitioned to the professional circuit, qualifying for the 2024 NextGen ATP Finals in Jeddah and making an impressive run in Challenger events.

Making a statement against his idol

Basavareddy idolized Djokovic, modeling his game after the Serbian star. His heavy backhand and baseline strategies were reminiscent of Djokovic’s style, a resemblance that became evident during their match. The American applied pressure early, forcing errors from the 24-time Grand Slam champion.

However, the physical demands of the contest, combined with nerves, led to cramping midway through the second set. Djokovic capitalized, using his vast experience to seize control and secure the win.

A future to watch

While his Grand Slam debut ended in defeat, Basavareddy’s performance signaled a bright future. His composed play, technical skills, and mental resilience hinted at the potential for a successful professional career.

As Djokovic noted, “He pleasantly surprised me with his shots and fighting spirit. I wish him all the best.”

Basavareddy’s journey is a testament to his dedication and talent, and tennis fans may have witnessed the emergence of a future star in Melbourne.