New Zealand vs England Live Score Updates: 3rd Test Day 4
Day 4 of the 3rd Test between New Zealand and England at Seddon Park, Hamilton, is shaping up to be a thrilling spectacle. With two days remaining, England faces a monumental challenge as they chase an imposing target of 658. At the close of Day 3, England found themselves in deep trouble at 18/2, with Jacob Bethell holding fort at nine and Joe Root yet to open his account. Meanwhile, New Zealand, having already lost the series, is aiming for a consolation victory, needing just eight wickets to seal the game. Day 3 Highlights: Rain, Records, and Resilience The third day began on a damp note as the entire first session was washed out due to persistent rain. However, once play resumed, New Zealand took full control of the proceedings. The extended second session belonged entirely to the Kiwis, with Kane Williamson continuing his love affair with Seddon Park. Williamson crafted a masterful century — his fifth consecutive ton at this venue — while Rachin Ravindra narrowly missed out on a fifty. Together, they added 138 runs by Tea, pushing New Zealand’s lead close to 500. England’s bowlers toiled tirelessly, with Matthew Potts being the pick of the lot. However, their efforts were not enough to stop the hosts from piling on the runs. As the final session began, New Zealand shifted gears, adopting an aggressive approach. Daryl Mitchell, Mitchell Santner, and Tom Blundell contributed quick-fire runs to set a daunting target of 658 for England. The day’s play ended with England’s batting woes resurfacing. Openers Zak Crawley and Ben Duckett departed cheaply, leaving the visitors in dire straits. Crawley’s dismissal, in particular, added to the drama, as he fell LBW to Matt Henry after a close DRS call. What the Players Said Tim Southee, New Zealand’s skipper, shared his thoughts at the end of Day 3. “It’s a strange feeling to face pressure while batting,” he said with a smile. “Walking out with the boys for New Zealand is always special. Taking a wicket is a joy on any day, and now we’re focused on doing what it takes to secure this win. The next couple of days will be emotional but exciting.” Day 4 Expectations: Can England Defy the Odds? The stage is set for an early start on Day 4, beginning at 9:30 pm GMT to make up for lost overs. The weather remains a factor, but if the rain stays away, fans can expect a thrilling day of cricket. England needs something miraculous to pull off this chase. With Joe Root still at the crease, the visitors will pin their hopes on their star batter to anchor the innings. Meanwhile, New Zealand’s bowlers will be raring to go, looking to wrap things up swiftly. Key Moments from the Final Session The All-Out Assault: New Zealand’s batters went berserk in the final session. Regardless of who was at the crease, the approach was clear — attack, attack, attack. Mitchell, Santner, and Blundell smashed the English bowlers all around the park, leaving them demoralized. Zak Crawley’s Frustration: Crawley’s dismissal for a paltry score was a moment of controversy. Trapped LBW by Matt Henry, he reviewed the decision, but the ball was shown to be clipping the stumps. Crawley walked off visibly upset, knowing he’d failed to provide a solid start. Jacob Bethell’s Survival: Young Jacob Bethell showed resilience, surviving a testing spell late in the day. Facing deliveries that swung and seamed, Bethell managed to keep his wicket intact, giving England a glimmer of hope. Final Over Drama The last over of Day 3, bowled by William O’Rourke, was nothing short of nerve-wracking. Bethell faced a series of testing deliveries, including a beauty that zipped past his off-stump. However, he stood firm, ensuring England would live to fight another day. Stumps were called with England at 18/2, and the mountain ahead looks steeper than ever. What to Watch for on Day 4 Joe Root’s Role: All eyes will be on Joe Root as he looks to guide England out of trouble. Root has the ability to single-handedly change the course of a game, and his performance could determine how long England stays in the contest. New Zealand’s Bowling Attack: With the pitch offering assistance to seamers, Tim Southee, Matt Henry, and William O’Rourke will look to exploit the conditions early on. Expect short-pitched deliveries and attacking fields. Weather Watch: Rain has played a role throughout this Test, and any interruptions on Day 4 could impact New Zealand’s push for victory. However, the forecast suggests clearer skies, setting the stage for uninterrupted action. Conclusion As the 3rd Test enters its fourth day, the balance heavily favors New Zealand. For England, the task is monumental, and their hopes rest on a stellar performance from their middle order. For fans, it’s an unmissable day of cricket, with drama and excitement guaranteed. Stay tuned as the action unfolds live from Seddon Park. Will New Zealand clinch a consolation win, or can England pull off the impossible?
Champions Trophy Hybrid Model Finalized: Heavy Costs for India Following ICC’s Decision
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has reportedly reached a consensus on conducting next year’s Champions Trophy using a hybrid model. This arrangement will allow India to play its matches in Dubai while other matches occur across the designated host nations. This decision was largely finalized during an informal meeting held at the ICC headquarters in Dubai on Thursday, involving the new ICC President Jay Shah and the Board of Directors, including Pakistan. According to a senior ICC official, all parties have agreed “in principle” to the hybrid hosting arrangement, which will also apply to ICC events until 2027. The ICC source shared, “It’s been agreed in principle by all parties that the 2025 Champions Trophy will be held in the UAE and Pakistan, with India playing its matches in Dubai. This arrangement offers a win-win situation for all stakeholders involved.” Details of the Hybrid Model The Champions Trophy is scheduled for February-March next year, and this hybrid arrangement is set to ensure smooth participation from all nations. Pakistan had initially threatened a boycott over India’s refusal to travel to their country but later agreed to the hybrid hosting model after the ICC’s assurances. During a previous ICC meeting last week, Pakistan’s cricket board demanded a reciprocal arrangement for future tournaments through 2031. While the ICC has agreed to extend the hybrid model for its events only until 2027, the decision represents a significant compromise on both sides. For the 2026 men’s T20 World Cup, for example, India will co-host the event with Sri Lanka. Under the hybrid agreement, Pakistan will play its matches in Sri Lanka instead of traveling to India. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also demanded compensation for adopting this hybrid model, although the ICC is still deliberating on that matter. Implications for Women’s Cricket This arrangement is not limited to men’s cricket. If India and Pakistan face off in the upcoming women’s ODI World Cup, scheduled for October this year, the Indian women’s team may need to play their league match against Pakistan at a neutral venue. This adds logistical complexities but ensures cricket continues without political disruptions. A Strategic Yet Contentious Agreement Jay Shah’s leadership in securing this agreement highlights the ICC’s efforts to maintain harmony among member nations while prioritizing cricket’s global interests. However, this arrangement has not come without challenges. The PCB’s head, Mohsin Naqvi, emphasized mutual respect and equity in their approach. After the last ICC meeting, he stated, “Cricket should win, that’s most important but with respect for all. We are going to do what’s best for cricket. Whichever formula we go for, it would be on equal terms.” While the hybrid hosting model solves immediate logistical issues, it highlights long-standing tensions between India and Pakistan. India’s refusal to tour Pakistan stems from security concerns, particularly after the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, which resulted in over 150 fatalities. Bilateral cricket engagements between the two nations have been suspended since 2012. The ICC has reiterated that no member board should violate its government’s travel advisories, effectively supporting India’s position. Challenges in Finalizing the Schedule The hybrid hosting arrangement also impacts the operational modalities of the Champions Trophy. Broadcasters, including Star Sports, have been pressing the ICC for the tournament schedule, which was due 90 days in advance as per their contract. However, this deadline has already been missed, leading to delays in planning and promotion. Representatives from Star Sports were in Dubai to finalize the hybrid model’s operational details and discuss the prospective schedule with ICC officials, including Jay Shah. However, this meeting was postponed to Saturday, leaving broadcasters and fans eagerly awaiting the final fixture release. Financial Implications and Revenue Sharing Another unresolved issue concerns the PCB’s demand for a greater share of the ICC’s annual revenue cycle to accommodate India’s hybrid model preference. While this demand has yet to be formally discussed, it reflects Pakistan’s concerns about ensuring financial fairness amid logistical compromises. The ICC’s decision to adopt a hybrid hosting model through 2027 demonstrates its commitment to maintaining cricketing ties between member nations. However, it also underscores the high stakes and political sensitivities involved in organizing multi-nation tournaments. A Path Forward for Cricket The agreement between India, Pakistan, and the ICC represents a crucial step toward sustaining international cricket’s growth amid geopolitical challenges. By adopting the hybrid model, the ICC has managed to secure the participation of all member nations for upcoming tournaments, preserving the sport’s competitive spirit and ensuring global engagement. Although the agreement places additional financial and logistical burdens on the stakeholders, it paves the way for greater flexibility in addressing political conflicts. With the Champions Trophy schedule expected soon, fans and broadcasters can look forward to a thrilling tournament that upholds the integrity of the game.
IND vs SA: Swarm of Flying Ants Halts Third India vs South Africa T20I Match
The third T20I match between India and South Africa took an unexpected turn at Centurion Stadium as it was briefly halted, not due to rain or bad light, but rather because of an unusual invasion— a swarm of flying ants that engulfed the field. With the series tied 1-1, this match had high stakes and drew much attention, but the surprising interruption by these insects became a focal point for fans and players alike. The Interruption After India finished their innings with an impressive score of 219/6, South Africa was tasked with chasing a substantial target. Arshdeep Singh opened the bowling for India, and South Africa managed to score seven runs without losing a wicket in the first over. As Hardik Pandya prepared to bowl the second over, the on-field umpires noticed a troubling situation. A cloud of flying ants descended on the field, with many insects getting dangerously close to the players, even flying into their eyes. Both the umpires and players were visibly uncomfortable, prompting the umpires to halt the game to address the swarm. Arshdeep Singh, in particular, was seen trying to brush ants away from his face and eyes during his over. Concerned for the players’ safety, the officials decided it was best to pause the match until the swarm cleared. The Groundsmen’s Response To handle the situation, groundsmen brought in special vacuum equipment to clean up the field. Cameras captured the unusual scene of grounds staff vacuuming the pitch and other affected areas, trying to rid the field of the ants. The grounds crew worked quickly and effectively to minimize the delay, as this was not a typical pitch or weather-related problem. The entire process took some time, but fortunately, no overs were lost. After about 20 minutes, the game resumed around 11:10 pm, following an inspection by match officials who confirmed that the swarm had sufficiently dissipated. The match was able to proceed without any reduction in overs or additional interruptions. India’s Performance with the Bat Before the insect invasion stole the spotlight, India had delivered a powerhouse performance with the bat. South Africa’s captain, Aiden Markram, had once again won the toss and opted to bowl first, a decision he had consistently made throughout the series. However, India’s batters were in no mood to relent, determined to put up a massive total. Tilak Varma took the lead, smashing a remarkable 51-ball century, displaying his incredible skill and power-hitting abilities. His innings, which included boundaries and sixes that left the crowd cheering, set the foundation for India’s formidable total. Abhishek Sharma joined in the onslaught, with both batters playing with aggression and composure, ensuring that India posted a massive 219/6 at the end of their 20 overs. With a required rate of nearly 11 runs per over, South Africa faced an uphill battle in their chase. The Context of the Series Coming into this third match, the series was finely balanced at 1-1, with both teams securing one win each in the earlier games. This added extra intensity to the Centurion face-off, with both India and South Africa aiming to clinch the series lead. The unexpected delay, though strange, only amplified the tension and excitement surrounding this deciding game. Impact of the Delay The brief pause due to the flying ants did not affect the outcome of the game but offered a rare and memorable spectacle. Cricket fans across the world tuned in to watch, curious about this unusual stoppage. The umpires’ decision to halt the game momentarily was prudent, as it prioritized the players’ comfort and safety, allowing them to focus on the game without distractions or potential hazards caused by the insects. With the match back on track, South Africa resumed their innings, needing a monumental effort to chase down the 220-run target set by India. The early overs would be crucial as they aimed to keep up with the required run rate. The brief stoppage added an extra layer of drama to the already intense match, heightening anticipation for fans eager to see how South Africa would respond. Tilak Varma’s Knock: A Highlight Tilak Varma’s performance with the bat was one of the most talked-about aspects of the game. His aggressive 51-ball hundred was a treat for spectators and demonstrated his potential as a future star for Indian cricket. His powerful shots and well-timed boundaries kept the scoreboard ticking at a rapid pace, placing immense pressure on the South African bowlers. Alongside Abhishek Sharma’s support, Varma’s innings was instrumental in India reaching such an imposing total.
Title: Pakistan Resolute on Hosting Champions Trophy Games; Questions India’s Refusal to Play in Pakistan
The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has become a focal point of discussion, especially around the participation of India and Pakistan’s stance as the host nation. Scheduled to kick off on February 19, 2025, the tournament will culminate in the final match on March 9, with Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi designated as the host cities. The Pakistan government has reportedly advised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to stand firm and keep all matches within Pakistan, despite India’s request to have their games held in a neutral venue like Dubai. This development follows the recent communication from the International Cricket Council (ICC) to the PCB, informing them of the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) refusal to cross the border for the Champions Trophy. According to sources, BCCI has expressed its preference for a neutral venue, pointing towards Dubai as a potential location for India’s games. However, Pakistan is not inclined to concede to this demand. A PCB official, who spoke on condition of anonymity, emphasized their stance: “Our government has directed us not to move any games out of Pakistan, and this will be our position when the time comes. We have been granted the hosting rights for the Champions Trophy, so there is no reason for us to shift games outside our borders.” In response to the BCCI’s decision, the PCB has reportedly sent a letter back to the ICC. Within it, the PCB has requested clarity from the BCCI, asking them to elaborate on the reasons behind their refusal to play in Pakistan. The official added, “The ICC reached out last week to inform us about India’s position. We replied with a questionnaire, seeking explanations from the BCCI. We’re interested in understanding their decision-making process, and as of now, moving games is not being considered.” Background: The India-Pakistan Cricket Stand-Off The ongoing impasse between the two cricket boards is reminiscent of the tense lead-up to the 2023 Asia Cup, where a similar deadlock occurred. India had refused to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup, while Pakistan, holding hosting rights, was reluctant to move any games outside its territory. In the end, however, Pakistan made a concession and India’s matches were shifted to Sri Lanka, allowing the tournament to proceed. India and Pakistan share a long and often contentious political history, which has seeped into their cricketing relationship over the years. The two nations haven’t met in a bilateral cricket series since 2013, with most of their encounters now limited to ICC or other multi-nation tournaments. India last visited Pakistan for a cricket tour over 16 years ago, making the Champions Trophy a significant event if it were to involve an Indian visit. Potential for Diplomatic Breakthrough The tensions surrounding the Champions Trophy come amidst some hope for diplomatic progress. Last month, there was a notable meeting between India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Islamabad. It was the first high-level meeting between the two nations since 2015, raising optimism for improved relations and, perhaps, a willingness to revisit and resolve sporting ties. For now, both the BCCI and PCB stand firm in their respective positions. While India remains unwilling to play within Pakistani borders, Pakistan is equally resolute in its decision to host all games domestically. As the start date for the Champions Trophy inches closer, the ICC will likely play a central role in mediating between the two cricketing giants to determine whether a compromise can be reached or if India’s games will indeed be moved to a neutral venue.
Ruturaj Gaikwad to Lead India A in Australia: A Promising Test for Emerging Talents
Ruturaj Gaikwad has been handed the responsibility to lead India A in a highly anticipated tour of Australia, where the team will compete in two first-class matches against Australia A. The matches are scheduled from October 31 to November 10, taking place in Mackay and Melbourne. The tour will culminate in a three-day intra-squad practice match at the WACA in Perth, against the senior India men’s team. Gaikwad’s leadership comes on the back of his captaincy stint for India C in the Duleep Trophy, where his team finished second in the four-team points table. This tour presents a crucial opportunity for young Indian talents to showcase their skills in challenging Australian conditions. With the Border-Gavaskar Trophy on the horizon, this series could offer valuable insights for selectors into potential backups and future stars for India’s Test setup. India A Squad Overview The India A squad for the Australia tour is filled with promising names and seasoned performers. Alongside Ruturaj Gaikwad, who has been in fine form in the ongoing Ranji Trophy season, scoring 231 runs in two games, Abhimanyu Easwaran has been named vice-captain. Easwaran himself had a stellar Duleep Trophy, leading India B to a third-place finish and contributing two centuries in the process. Both Gaikwad and Easwaran, along with the in-form Sai Sudharsan, are likely to be considered as backup openers for India during the upcoming Border-Gavaskar Trophy series, making this tour all the more significant for them. The middle order will be strengthened by the presence of players like Devdutt Padikkal, Baba Indrajith, and Ricky Bhui. Bhui, the top run-scorer from the 2023-24 Ranji Trophy season and the 2024 Duleep Trophy, will look to carry his prolific form into the Australia tour. Tamil Nadu’s Baba Indrajith, who scored an impressive 767 runs in the previous Ranji season, also brings a wealth of experience to the team. A Focus on Wicket-keeping and Bowling Depth India A will feature two wicket-keepers, Ishan Kishan and Abishek Porel, both of whom are looking to cement their positions in the long run. Kishan, already a regular name in India’s limited-overs squad, will be keen to showcase his red-ball capabilities, while Porel’s steady rise makes him an interesting prospect for the future. In terms of the bowling attack, the pace unit is comprised of Mukesh Kumar, Khaleel Ahmed, Yash Dayal, and Navdeep Saini. This tour provides a platform for these bowlers to make their mark in foreign conditions, with extra attention likely on Mukesh Kumar, who has been gaining recognition for his consistent performances in domestic cricket. Spinner Tanush Kotian, who had an impressive run in the Duleep Trophy, will be the key figure in the spin department, while Nitish Kumar Reddy, who recently made his India debut in Gwalior, adds all-round depth to the squad. Schedule and Expectations The two first-class matches will be played at the Great Barrier Reef Arena in Mackay (October 31 to November 3) and the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (November 7 to November 10). These encounters will be critical in determining how India’s emerging talents fare in Australian conditions, especially with the pacers expected to play a crucial role on bouncier pitches. Following the two first-class matches, India A will play a three-day intra-squad match against the senior Indian men’s team at the WACA, Perth, from November 15 to November 17. This practice game will serve as a final preparation for the Test specialists ahead of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy. Conclusion Ruturaj Gaikwad’s captaincy of India A in Australia is a pivotal moment in his career and a crucial test for the entire squad. With several young players aiming to break into the senior team, the tour offers them the perfect platform to demonstrate their potential in conditions that are often tough for visiting teams. For India’s cricketing future, this tour could be the breeding ground for the next generation of stars.
Major Blow for India: Rohit Sharma May Miss Crucial Test Series vs Australia Due to Personal Reasons
India’s preparations for the highly anticipated five-Test series against Australia, set to begin on November 22 in Perth, might suffer a significant setback as their captain, Rohit Sharma, could miss one of the early Test matches due to personal reasons. This potential absence comes at a critical juncture, and fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of whether the star opener will be available for the full series. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has been informed by Rohit Sharma about the possibility of his unavailability for one of the initial two Tests. While details of the situation remain unclear, reports suggest that it is a pressing personal matter that could force Rohit to miss either the first Test in Perth or the second Test in Adelaide, which is scheduled between December 6 and 10. A BCCI official, speaking to PTI under the condition of anonymity, stated: “There isn’t complete clarity about Rohit Sharma’s situation at the moment. However, he has communicated with the BCCI that due to a personal matter, there is a chance he may have to skip one of the first two Tests at the start of the Australia series.” While there is still hope that the issue could be resolved before the start of the series, and Rohit might be able to participate in all five Test matches, the final decision will depend on how things unfold in the coming days. Fans and cricket experts alike are waiting anxiously to see if India’s experienced captain will be available for this crucial contest. At 37 years of age, Rohit remains one of the most critical players in India’s lineup, especially in overseas tours. He featured prominently in India’s recent Test series win at home against Bangladesh, playing in both matches. Before heading to Australia, India is scheduled to host New Zealand for a three-Test series starting on October 16. Rohit is expected to lead the team in that series, but the concerns about his availability for the Australia tour loom large. In the event that Rohit Sharma is unavailable for one of the Tests in Australia, Abhimanyu Easwaran, an in-form batsman and reliable option, is expected to step in as his replacement. Easwaran is currently in excellent touch and will also be leading the India A team in Australia, making him a strong candidate for the opening slot if needed. However, Easwaran isn’t the only option. India also has the likes of Shubman Gill and KL Rahul, both of whom have substantial experience as openers in Test cricket. Shubman Gill, in particular, has been in excellent form across formats, while KL Rahul remains a reliable, seasoned option, having previously opened for India in several overseas Tests. One area of uncertainty within the team is the role of vice-captain, as the Test squad did not have an officially designated deputy during their recent series against Bangladesh. This has led to speculation regarding who could step in as vice-captain if Rohit is unavailable. Cricket analyst and former player, Abhishek Nayar, commented on the matter, stating: “It’s important to remember that we have a number of IPL captains within this Indian squad. Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, and even someone like Yashasvi Jaiswal, who could be a key player in the future, all possess leadership qualities. While they may be young in terms of age and experience, mentally and as cricketers, they have the maturity and leadership required for the role.” When it comes to potential candidates for the vice-captaincy, there are three key names in the mix: Shubman Gill, Jasprit Bumrah, and Rishabh Pant. Gill, who serves as Rohit Sharma’s deputy in white-ball cricket, is a strong contender, especially given his consistency and leadership potential. Jasprit Bumrah, on the other hand, has already led the Indian Test team in England, proving his leadership credentials. His calm demeanor and tactical approach have impressed many, making him another viable option to take on the role of vice-captain. Then there’s Rishabh Pant, the dynamic wicketkeeper-batsman, who has shown glimpses of leadership potential, particularly during India’s memorable tour of Australia in 2020-21. Pant’s ability to inspire the team with his performances, as well as his growing maturity on the field, make him a strong contender for the leadership group. Nayar elaborated further on this subject, stating: “I wouldn’t label these players as youngsters anymore. Yes, they are younger in terms of age and the amount of cricket they’ve played compared to veterans, but they possess the leadership qualities needed for the role. There is no strict need to have a designated vice-captain, as several players in the squad are capable of stepping up when required.” The absence of a vice-captain could open the door for any one of these talented players to prove themselves as leaders on the international stage. With multiple players having captained their franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL), the Indian squad is not short on leadership options, even in the absence of a formally appointed deputy. As Rohit Sharma’s potential absence continues to dominate headlines, the Indian team management and fans alike will be hoping that the personal matter is resolved swiftly and that their captain is available for the entirety of the grueling Test series against Australia. However, if Rohit does miss one of the early Tests, India has enough depth and leadership options to cope with his absence. For now, all eyes are on the Indian team as they prepare for a challenging few months of Test cricket, both at home and abroad, with the Australia tour set to be one of the most anticipated cricketing events of the year.
India Clinches Opening Test Against Bangladesh: A Historic 280-Run Triumph in Chennai
India kicked off their 2023/24 home season with a commanding performance, securing a massive 280-run victory over Bangladesh in Chennai well before lunch on the final day. This resounding win not only set the tone for the season but also marked a significant milestone in India’s rich 92-year Test cricket history. A Momentous Victory for India India’s win-loss record in Test cricket now stands at 179 wins and 178 losses, marking the first time the number of victories has surpassed defeats. This milestone, achieved in India’s 580th Test match, places them in an elite group of nations that have accomplished this feat, joining Australia, Pakistan, England, West Indies, South Africa, and Afghanistan. Several other cricketing nations, including New Zealand, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Bangladesh, and Ireland, have yet to reach this landmark. The Magnitude of the Victory India’s 280-run margin of victory is the third largest by any team in Test cricket in Asia after being reduced to 150 or fewer for six wickets down in their first innings. The only larger victories in such circumstances came from Pakistan, who defeated India by 341 runs in Karachi in 2006 after slumping to 39/6, and India’s own triumph over South Africa in Delhi in 2015 after recovering from 139/6. R Ashwin’s All-Round Brilliance Ravichandran Ashwin once again showcased his all-round prowess by scoring a century and claiming a five-wicket haul in the same Test. This is the fourth time Ashwin has achieved this rare double, a feat only bettered by Ian Botham, who has done so on five occasions. Notably, Ashwin became the first player to accomplish this milestone twice at the same venue, his home ground in Chennai, with the previous instance coming against England in 2021. Ashwin’s remarkable performance places him among an elite group of Indian players who have scored a century and taken five wickets in the same Test match. The full list includes: Vinoo Mankad (184 & 5/196 vs England, Lord’s, 1952) Polly Umrigar (172* & 5/107 vs West Indies, Port of Spain, 1961/62) R Ashwin (103 & 5/156 vs West Indies, Wankhede, 2011/12) R Ashwin (113 & 7/83 vs West Indies, North Sound, 2016) R Ashwin (106 & 5/43 vs England, Chennai, 2020/21) Ravindra Jadeja (175* & 5/41 vs Sri Lanka, Mohali, 2021/22) Ravindra Jadeja (112 & 5/41 vs England, Rajkot, 2023/24) R Ashwin (113 & 6/88 vs Bangladesh, Chennai, 2024/25) Ashwin’s Bowling Milestones Ashwin’s stellar bowling performance continued with his 37th five-wicket haul in Test cricket, achieved in his 101st match. This tally draws him level with Shane Warne, who took 145 Tests to reach the same number. The only bowler with more five-wicket hauls is the legendary Muttiah Muralidaran, who claimed 67 in his illustrious career. Ashwin also became the leading wicket-taker for India in the fourth innings of Test matches, surpassing Anil Kumble’s record of 94 wickets. Ashwin now has 99 wickets in the fourth innings, with seven of those being five-wicket hauls, putting him in joint second place alongside Warne and Muralidaran. Only Sri Lanka’s Rangana Herath, with 12 five-wicket hauls, has more in the fourth innings. A Unique Bowling Feat Ashwin also achieved a rare distinction by becoming the first bowler to take six or more wickets in the second innings after going wicketless in the first, twice. His first such performance came against the West Indies in North Sound in 2016 (0/43 & 7/83), and now he has repeated the feat in this Test against Bangladesh (0/54 & 6/33). Venkatesh Prasad is the only other Indian bowler to have done this once, also at Chennai, against Pakistan in 1999. Ashwin’s Player of the Match Dominance This latest performance earned Ashwin his 10th Player of the Match award in 101 Test appearances. He now sits in joint third place for India, alongside Ravindra Jadeja, Virat Kohli, and Anil Kumble. Only Sachin Tendulkar (14) and Rahul Dravid (11) have won the award more times in Indian Test cricket. Minimal DRS Referrals Interestingly, this Test saw only four DRS referrals, the joint lowest for any Test match held in India. The only other instance with the same number of referrals occurred in the Rajkot Test between India and West Indies in 2018. Additionally, there was only one LBW dismissal in the match, making it one of just three Tests in India with one or no such dismissals. A Milestone for Mushfiqur Rahim In a personal achievement for Bangladesh, Mushfiqur Rahim became the leading run-scorer for his country across all formats. During the second innings, Rahim surpassed Tamim Iqbal’s tally of 15,192 runs, taking his career total to 15,205. Shakib Al Hasan is in third place with 14,721 runs. India’s emphatic victory in Chennai sets a strong foundation for the home season, and the individual milestones achieved in this match will undoubtedly be remembered as significant moments in the annals of Indian cricket history.