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BBL 2025/26 full squads and possible XIs for each team

Charbel Coorey
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BBL 2025/26 full squads and possible XIs for each team

The 15th season of the Big Bash League (BBL) is set to begin with a blockbuster between Perth Scorchers and Sydney Sixers on Sunday December 14.

All eight teams have aspirations of going deep in the tournament. There is a good mix of domestic and international talent, particularly with a number of Pakistani players available.

BBL 2025/26: All the squads and possible XIs for each team

Here is a look at the squads for each team in BBL 2025/26 plus the possible XIs for their respective first matches.

Adelaide Strikers

Squad: Hasan Ali, Cameron Boyce, Jordan Buckingham, Alex Carey, Mackenzie Harvey, Travis Head, Thomas Kelly, Chris Lynn, Harry Nielsen, Jamie Overton, Lloyd Pope, Alex Ross, Jason Sangha, Liam Scott, Matt Short, Tom Straker, Henry Thorton, Luke Wood

Adelaide Strikers possible XI for their first match against Sydney Sixers at the SCG: 1. Matt Short, 2. Chris Lynn, 3. Jason Sangha, 4. Alex Ross, 5. Harry Nielsen (wk), 6. Jamie Overton (OS), 7. Liam Scott, 8. Luke Wood (OS), 9. Hasan Ali (OS), 10. Lloyd Pope, 11. Jordan Buckingham/Henry Thornton

Travis Head and Alex Carey are on Ashes duty and won’t be available until January. Strikers may look to open with Chris Lynn and bat new recruit Jason Sangha at three. Jamie Overton, Liam Scott and Luke Wood may be tasked with finishing the innings with Hasan Ali their key overseas bowler.

A look at the squads and the possible XIs for all eight teams in the upcoming 2025/26 season of the Big Bash League (BBL).
BBL 2025/26 squads: Matt Short will be looking to lead from the front.

Brisbane Heat

Squad: Shaheen Shah Afridi, Tom Alsop, Xavier Bartlett, Max Bryant, Lachlan Hearne, Usman Khawaja, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan McSweeney, Colin Munro, Michael Neser, Oli Patterson, Jimmy Peirson, Matthew Renshaw, Callum Vidler, Hugh Weibgen, Jack Wildermuth, Paddy Dooley (replacement player), Spencer Johnson (ruled out)

Brisbane Heat possible XI for their first match against Melbourne Renegades at Geelong: 1. Colin Munro (OS), 2. Nathan McSweeney (c), 3. Matt Renshaw, 4. Max Bryant, 5. Lachlan Hearne/Hugh Weibgen, 6. Jimmy Pierson (wk), 7. Jack Wildermuth, 8. Xavier Bartlett, 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi (OS), 10. Paddy Dooley, 11. Liam Haskett/Oli Patterson

Usman Khawaja, Michael Neser and Marnus Labuschagne are on Ashes duty. Spencer Johnson is out of the entire season due to a back injury, as confirmed on the Brisbane Heat’s official website. Matt Kuhnemann, Callum Vidler, and Tom Alsop will miss the first game at least due to side, back and knee injuries

Shaheen Shah Afridi will be called on to play a huge role alongside Xavier Bartlett. Both can deliver the goods in the powerplay and death overs.

A look at the squads and the possible XIs for all eight teams in the upcoming 2025/26 season of the Big Bash League (BBL).
BBL 2025/26 squads: Shaheen Shah Afridi can prove to be a huge addition for the Brisbane Heat.

Hobart Hurricanes

Squad: Rehan Ahmed, Marcus Bean, Jackson Bird, Iain Carlisle, Nikhil Chaudhary, Tim David, Nathan Ellis, Rishad Hossain, Chris Jordan, Ben McDermott, Riley Meredith, Mitch Owen, Billy Stanlake, Matthew Wade, Tim Ward, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster, Mac Wright

Hobart Hurricanes possible XI for their first match against Sydney Thunder at Bellerive Oval: 1. Mitchell Owen, 2. Matthew Wade (wk), 3. Ben McDermott, 4. Tim David, 5. Nikhil Chaudhary, 6. Rehan Ahmed (OS), 7. Chris Jordan (OS), 8. Rishad Hossain (OS), 9. Nathan Ellis, 10. Riley Meredith, 11. Jackson Bird

The defending champions look strong for the BBL 2025/26 season. Despite missing Jake Weatherald and Beau Webster to Ashes duty, the Hurricanes will still field a powerful batting lineup with three overseas players who can contribute.

Legspinners Rehan Ahmed (who could also bat up the order) and Rishad Hossain will be key along with the experienced pace bowlers. Mitchell Owen, who was outstanding in leading the Hurricanes to their maiden title, can also chip in with overs.

A look at the squads and the possible XIs for all eight teams in the upcoming 2025/26 season of the Big Bash League (BBL).
BBL 2025/26 squads: Tim David is having a superb year in T20s.

Melbourne Renegades

Squad: Jason Behrendorff, Josh Brown, Harry Dixon, Brendan Doggett, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Caleb Jewell, Hassan Khan, Nathan Lyon, Fergus O’Neill, Ollie Peake, Muhammad Rizwan, Tom Rogers, Gurinder Sandhu, Tim Seifert, Callum Stow, Will Sutherland, Adam Zampa, Andrew Tye, Will Salzmann (ruled out)

Melbourne Renegades possible XI for their first match against Brisbane Heat at Geelong: 1. Jake Fraser-McGurk, 2. Josh Brown, 3. Tim Seifert (OS), 4. Muhammad Rizwan (OS, wk), 5. Caleb Jewell/Ollie Peake, 6. Hassan Khan (OS), 7. Will Sutherland (c), 8. Fergus O’Neill, 9. Andrew Tye, 10. Matthew Spoors, 11. Jason Behrendhorff

Melbourne Renegades have a host of top order options with Jake Fraser-McGurk, Josh Brown, Tim Seifert, Muhammad Rizwan, Harry Dixon and Caleb Jewell all capable of opening the batting. They may settle on Fraser-McGurk and Brown to open with Seifert and Rizwan to bat three and four respectively.

Hassan Khan, who has a T20 batting strike rate of 140.58, could slot in at number six. He can also contribute with his left-arm orthodox. New recruit Jason Behrendhorff rounds out an experienced Renegades bowling attack.

Nathan Lyon and Brendon Doggett are on Ashes duty. Tom Rogers will miss the start of the season due to a shoulder injury.

A look at the squads and the possible XIs for all eight teams in the upcoming 2025/26 season of the Big Bash League (BBL).
BBL 2025/26 squads: Can Jake Fraser-McGurk show the kind of form he displayed in 2024?

Melbourne Stars

Squad: Austin Anlezark, Scott Boland, Hilton Cartwright, Joe Clarke, Tom Curran, Sam Harper, Liam Hatcher, Campbell Kellaway, Glenn Maxwell, Hamish McKenzie, Jon Merlo, Haris Rauf, Tom Rogers, Peter Siddle, Marcus Stoinis, Mitch Swepson, Tom Whitney, Mark Steketee (ruled out)

Melbourne Stars possible XI for their first match against Hobart Hurricanes at the MCG: 1. Joe Clarke (OS), 2. Thomas Fraser Rogers/Campbell Kellaway, 3. Hilton Cartwright, 4. Glenn Maxwell, 5. Marcus Stoinis, 6. Sam Harper (wk), 7. Tom Curran (OS), 8. Mitchell Swepson, 9. Peter Siddle, 10. Haris Rauf (OS), 11. Liam Hatcher

It will be interesting to see the make up of Melbourne Stars’ top six. Marcus Stoinis can open, but he batted in the middle order last season.

On the bowling front, Mark Steketee is out of the season due to a hamstring injury, so Peter Siddle, Haris Rauf and Liam Hatcher could lineup as the specialist quicks alongside Tom Curran. Glenn Maxwell and Stoinis can also contribute overs.

BBL 2025/26 squads: Haris Rauf returns to the Melbourne Stars.

Perth Scorchers

Squad: Ashton Agar, Finn Allen, Mahli Beardman, Cooper Connolly, Brody Couch, Laurie Evans, Sam Fanning, Aaron Hardie, Nick Hobson, Josh Inglis, Bryce Jackson, Matthew Kelly, Mitch Marsh, Joel Paris, David Payne, Jhye Richardson, Ashton Turner, Lance Morris (ruled out)

Perth Scorchers possible XI for their first match against Sydney Sixers at Perth: 1. Mitch Marsh, 2. Finn Allen (wk, OS), 3. Aaron Hardie, 4. Cooper Connolly, 5. Ashton Turner (c), 6. Laurie Evans (OS), 7. Nick Hobson, 8. Ashton Agar, 9. Brody Couch, 10. Joel Paris, 11. Mahli Beardman

Finn Allen returned to cricket in late November, lining up for Auckland A against Otago A. It was Allen’s first match since injuring his foot during the USA Major League Cricket season.

Despite missing Josh Inglis and Jhye Richardson to Ashes duty, the Scorchers will field a dangerous lineup. Mitch Marsh and Finn Allen can be a nightmare for opposing teams in the powerplay, with Aaron Hardis, Cooper Connolly and Ashton Turner to follow. Also, Laurie Evans’ presence at six gives the Scorchers even more power.

A look at the squads and the possible XIs for all eight teams in the upcoming 2025/26 season of the Big Bash League (BBL).
BBL 2025/26 squads: Mitch Marsh will be after a big season ahead of the T20 World Cup.

Sydney Sixers

Squad: Sean Abbott, Babar Azam, Jafer Chohan, Sam Curran, Joel Davies, Ben Dwarshuis, Jack Edwards, Moises Henriques, Daniel Hughes, Hayden Kerr, Ben Manenti, Todd Murphy, Mitch Perry, Josh Philippe, Kane Richardson, Lachlan Shaw, Jordan Silk, Steve Smith. Marquee supplementary list: Mitchell Starc, Local replacement player: Harjas Singh

Sydney Sixers possible XI for first match against Perth Scorchers at Perth: 1. Josh Philippe (wk), 2. Babar Azam (OS), 3. Jack Edwards, 4. Moises Henriques (c), 5. Daniel Hughes/Harjas Singh, 6. Lachlan Shaw/Joel Davies, 7. Charlie Stobo, 8. Ben Dwarshuis, 9. Hayden Kerr, 10. Todd Murphy, 11. Mitch Perry

Sydney Sixers welcome Babar Azam as their marquee signing. The star batsman could open depending on where the Sixers wish to bat Jack Edwards or Daniel Hughes. Moises Henriques will then lead what is a very experienced and long Sixers batting lineup even with key players missing for the first match.

Sam Curran is unavailable for the early part of the season due to his UAE ILT20 commitments. Jordan Silk, Kane Richardson and Sean Abbott are also not in the Sixers’ squad for their first match against the Scorchers.

A list of the Pakistan players picked up by Big Bash League (BBL) teams ahead of the 2025/26 season down under.
BBL 2025/26 squads: Babar Azam is available for the whole season.

Sydney Thunder

Squad: Tom Andrews, Wes Agar, Cameron Bancroft, Sam Billings, Ollie Davies, Lockie Ferguson, Matt Gilkes, Chris Green, Ryan Hadley, Shadab Khan, Sam Konstas, Nic Maddinson, Nathan McAndrew, Blake Nikitaras, Aidan O’Connor, Daniel Sams, Tanveer Sangha, Reece Topley, David Warner

Sydney Thunder possible XI for first match against Hobart Hurricanes at Bellerive Oval: 1. Cameron Bancroft, 2. Sam Konstas, 3. Nic Maddinson, 4. Sam Billings (OS, wk), 5. Ollie Davies, 6. Shadab Khan (OS), 7. Daniel Sams, 8. Chris Green, 9. Nathan McAndrew, 10. Reece Topley (OS), 11. Wes Agar

David Warner will miss the Thunder’s opening game of the season. As reported by CODE Sports, Warner suffered a freak side injury playing with his children. “It’s understood the Australian great and star of last year’s tournament suffered a right side injury after chasing his kids around on the sand a few days ago,” read the report.

Reece Topley is available for the first half of the tournament. Lockie Ferguson will then replace him when he returns from his ILT20 commitments.

In terms of the Thunder XI for their opener in Hobart, there may be no room for Tanveer Sangha with Shadan Khan and Chris Green providing the spin. Daniel Sams, Nathan McAndrew, Reece Topley and West Agar gives the Thunder more seam options on a ground where they struggled badly in last year’s BBL final.

A look at the full squads and possible playing XIs for every team for the upcoming 2024/25 Big Bash League (BBL) season.
BBL 2025/26 squads: Can David Warner lead Sydney Thunder to the title?

IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

New Chandigarh will host its first men’s international as India look to take a 2-0 lead over South Africa in the T20I series.

If you had stopped watching the opening T20I after the first powerplay, you may have assumed the match would be a close one or end South Africa’s way. India stumbled to 40/2 after six overs, and with dew expected in the second innings, they needed a big push.

That’s the way it prevailed. Hardik Pandya marked his return to international cricket in style, hammering a 28-ball 59* on a tricky surface to give India a strong total on a ground where 140 was the average score. He exemplified the all-round class he brings to this Indian team, and their depth only improves as a result.

If South Africa are to level the series, they will have to be near perfect. They picked regular wickets at Cuttack, but struggles at the death meant they were chasing an above-par total. With momentum on India’s side, South Africa were blown away for 74 against a fine Indian attack. Can they bounce back? A big challenge awaits.

IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Possible Playing XIs

India will likely stick with the same XI that won the first T20I, according to ESPNcricinfo. Axar Patel can bat up the order again depending on the situation.

India: 1. Abhishek Sharma, 2. Shubman Gill, 3. Suryakumar Yadav (c), 4. Tilak Varma, 5. Jitesh Sharma (wk), 6. Hardik Pandya, 7. Shivam Dube, 8. Axar Patel, 9. Arshdeep Singh, 10. Varun Chakravarthy, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

South Africa could consider bringing in one or both of Corbin Bosch and George Linde.

South Africa: 1. Quinton de Kock (wk), 2. Aiden Markram (c), 3. Tristan Stubbs, 4. Dewald Brevis, 5. David Miller, 6. Donovon Ferreira, 7. Marco Jansen, 8. Lutho Sipamla/Corbin Bosch, 9. Keshav Maharaj/George Linde, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Anrich Nortje.

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium Mullanpur New Chandigarh Pitch Report and Weather

This is the first men’s international on this ground. However, there have been 11 IPL matches and teams batting first have fared pretty well, winning six times. According to ESPNcricinfo, dew doesn’t play too much of a factor with no high stands.

In these matches, pace bowlers have taken 98 wickets at an average of 25.63 and economy of 9.22. Spinners fare better in terms of average/economy with 47 wickets at 21.55/7.48.

A clear and cool evening is forecast.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Quinton de Kock missed out in the first T20I, but he remains the safest wicket-keeping pick as he opens the batting. Getting through his poor matchup against Arshdeep is key as de Kock has four fifties in 11 innings against India (351 runs, avg. 39.00, SR 137.64).

Key batter picks:

  • Abhishek Sharma looked in promising touch in Cuttack as he was starved of strike in the powerplay. He remains an excellent captaincy option in Dream11 as he is India’s top run-scorer in T20Is this year (773) at a strike rate of 194.71.
  • Like Abhishek, Dewald Brevis has had a fine year in T20Is. He is South Africa’s top scorer in 2025 with 417 at a strike rate of 182.09. He was the only Proteas player to cross 20 in the first match before he was unlucky to be dismissed off a very tight no ball call against Jasprit Bumrah.

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Hardik Pandya is a must-pick in Dream11 given the value he provides with bat and ball. He has 290 runs (avg. 41.42, SR 133.02) and 12 wickets (avg. 32.08, SR 22.05) in T20Is against South Africa.
  • Marco Jansen is a player who can help turn things around for South Africa. He was threatening in the powerplay at Cuttack and is capable of picking up wickets in the crunch overs. He can also contribute with the bat.
  • Axar Patel can bat higher up the order if needed and he is a good option with the ball against South Africa’s plethora of right-handers.

Key bowler picks:

  • Arshdeep Singh has 47 powerplay wickets, the equal-most of any Indian bowler in T20Is. His outstanding record against Quinton de Kock continued, having dismissed him for the fifth time in 41 balls in all T20s (38 runs).
  • Jasprit Bumrah looked in excellent touch in the first T20I. He is a threat in all three stages of an innings. Bumrah has dismissed David Miller twice in 43 balls in all T20s, conceding just 49 in the process.
  • Varun Chakravarthy has wonderful numbers against South Africa in T20Is, with 14 wickets in five innings (avg. 11.21, SR 8.14).
  • Lungi Ngidi was excellent in the opening T20I (3/33). He can swing the ball in the powerplay and pick up wickets with changes of pace at the death. Ngidi strikes every nine balls on average in six T20Is against India (13 wickets).

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • Suryakumar Yadav has five 50+ scores in 11 innings against South Africa. However, the captain is averaging just 15.07 in T20Is this year.
  • David Miller has the most runs in IND-SA T20Is (535) at an average of 32.81 and strike rate of 146.23.
  • Tilak Varma has two centuries in seven innings against South Africa.
  • Aiden Markram averages 21.50 as skipper in T20Is (32 matches) compared to 38.50 when he’s not captain (31 matches). Can he improve on these numbers today?
  • If selected, Corbin Bosch can prove to be a solid Dream11 pick as he bowls in the crunch overs. He took seven wickets in three T20Is in Pakistan last month.
  • Can Shubman Gill find his best form? Lungi Ngidi has dismissed Gill twice in 24 balls in internationals, including in the first T20I.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • India have won six of the past eight T20Is against South Africa.
  • Since the 2024 T20 World Cup Final, India have a 27-4 record in T20Is. South Africa, on the other hand, have a 9-17 record.
  • Hardik Pandya is one wicket away from becoming the first seamer to achieve the 1,000 runs and 100 wickets double in T20Is.
  • Arshdeep Singh has 11 wickets in 10 innings in T20s on this ground.
  • Marco Jansen vs Hardik Pandya in T20Is: 21 balls, 36 runs, no wickets.
  • Arshdeep Singh vs Quinton de Kock in T20Is: 21 balls, 19 runs, four wickets.

IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams. 

Option 1:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Mullanpur New Chandigarh Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Today.
IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Mullanpur New Chandigarh Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Today.
IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

IND vs SA 2nd T20 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?

South Africa’s best chance is chasing, although they were beaten heavily in the opening T20I. Expecting India to follow up with another win.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo and Cricmetric.

Did Ben Stokes show good leadership during and after the Gabba Test?

Charbel Coorey
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0
Did Ben Stokes show good leadership during and after the Gabba Test?

Ben Stokes questioned his team’s character following England’s eight wicket defeat at the Gabba. The captain lamented the visitors’ propensity to lose “moments in the game where the heat is on and the pressure is really, really cooking” he said, as quoted by The Guardian.

Stokes soon made a stunning revelation, saying an Australian tour is not for weak men. He then followed up by saying he still has belief in this group that they can turn things around in the series.

“Over and over again, Australia have managed to get through those periods and outdo us,” Stokes said. “I know it’s not a skill thing, because they’re all incredibly talented players. But if you can’t put it down to skill then you start to wonder, what is it? Do we need to start thinking about what mentality we’re taking into those pressure moments?

“Because when we’re on top we’re great, but when the game is neck and neck we’re not coming out on top on enough occasions to be able to challenge Australia. There is a saying that we have said a lot here, that Australia is not for weak men. A dressing room that I am captain of isn’t a place for weak men either.”

Ben Stokes’ captaincy in the spotlight after Gabba loss

Stokes combined for 95 runs off 220 balls with Will Jacks on day four. The England captain fought hard for his 152-ball 50, and while he received praise from some corners for his effort, not everybody was impressed.

Sam Perry from The Grade Cricketer Podcast made an eye opening point regarding Stokes’ leadership in the Gabba Test.

“I’ve noticed since Stokes made these comments [about weak men], a lot of people seem to be taking the view… [of] actually accepting what Stokes is saying hook, line and sinker which is this effort to separate him and his lion-heartedness, strength and will from his teammates who lack that, in their moment of need.

“Now how does their supposed weakness manifest? It manifests with these moments of driving on the up to good deliveries. It manifests in bowling cat pi– sh– at the armpit when the deck is good for Australia. It manifests in dropped catches largely owing to no volume of training.

“Now who’s been the architect of that style of play? It’s the captain and the coach. I find it remarkable that Stokes gets to play one innings (50 off 152 balls) when the game’s dead where he blocks the sh– out of it for a little while and doesn’t even look that good doing it and everyone is going ‘captain, leader, legend, showing the way.'”

Only one team in history has come back to win an Ashes series after going 2-0 down. Ben Stokes' England need to do the same.
Can Ben Stokes spark an improbable turnaround in the Ashes?

Perry then went in to bat for Stokes’ teammates, correctly stating they have been backed to play this way in the Bazball era. The likes of Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope and Harry Brook have the license to play their shots. In the case of Crawley and Pope, this England regime has persisted with the duo despite middling records after 60+ Tests each.

“Then he gets off the field and essentially says ‘the rest of them are weak.’ And everyone’s like ‘yeah, that’s right, at least he’s showing some emotion,'” Perry continued.

“If I’m these guys, I’d be like ‘hang on, this is how you’ve asked me to play for ages.’ All of the rhetoric now is about fight and will and spirit. It’s way more pragmatic than that. This is a failure of strategy and tactics. This is four years of a way of approaching the game that was never going to work here [in Australia].

“And the moment it falls over, Stokes goes ‘nah, I’m digging in.’ Hang on, any danger of telling us to do that? Why does he [Stokes] get to change and get all the flowers for being lion-hearted when he has been the architect of running towards the danger, of doubling down?

“They talk about applying pressure, absorbing pressure. They don’t absorb sh– these guys. They’re not interested in that. It’s failed here. It’s failing badly.”

It will be fascinating to see whether England change their approach for the Adelaide Test which begins on December 17. There is the possibility of personnel changes in what is now a must-win Test for Stokes’ team if they are to keep their very slim hopes of regaining the Ashes alive.

You can watch Sam Perry’s take on the December 9 episode of The Grade Cricketer Podcast from 13:48.

Brendon McCullum’s post Gabba interviews another slap to the face of England fans

Charbel Coorey
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0
Brendon McCullum’s post Gabba interviews another slap to the face of England fans

If England’s performance at the Gabba wasn’t bad enough, Brendon McCullum and Marcus Trescothick further lifted Australian spirits.

England’s coaches were almost as bad on the microphone as the team was on the field. From Trescothick’s statement that the group had “no discussions” about driving on the up to McCullum’s “overprepared” gaff, England’s leadership is steering the team in the wrong direction as Ben Stokes questioned the character of his players.

England wilting in the field screams of a team underdone

England fans are rightly furious with the Brendon McCullum interviews post the Gabba Test. They witnessed their team wilt after spending a day in the field as they dished up what Stuart Broad termed the worst bowling display by an English side since 2008.

The visitors are underdone and not conditioned for success in Australian conditions. England aren’t “overprepared”; they don’t have the miles in the legs in addition to their brainless batting approach. They looked utterly exhausted by the final session day two, contributing to a host of missed chances. That is no recipe for victory in a country where the successful teams – including England (2010/11), South Africa and India have outlasted Australia.

Archer’s speeds have dropped significantly when asked to come back spell after spell. Brydon Carse has proved a disappointment so far, with his ability to hit hard lengths considered one of England’s biggest hopes heading into the series. Two Tests in and he’s rarely bowled in the batter’s half.

As a unit, England’s attack lacks the patience to build any meaningful pressure. The general discourse on social media was the Gabba pitch was as flat as a pancake as Australia drove past 500. That view is a smokescreen for a wildly inconsistent English bowling display before Michael Neser showed the template. Many of us have seen Aussie roads, and this didn’t share the same characteristics with uneven bounce and seam movement available as early as day two.

England fans are livid after Brendon McCullum said England may have overprepared for the second Ashes Test at the Gabba.
England fans were unimpressed with the Brendon McCullum interviews after the Gabba Test.

Brendon McCullum’s interviews post-Gabba were telling: England are in a mess

“I actually felt like we overprepared to be honest,” was McCullum’s immediate reaction on Channel 7. “We had five intense training days, and I think sometimes when you’re in the heat of the battle the most important thing is to feel a little bit fresh.”

While his “overprepared” statement made the headlines, it was his next few sentences that were quite telling.

“I think the boys just need a few days off and probably need to change up a few of the training methods a little bit,” McCullum continued. “I’m a horse racing man and you wouldn’t just keep doing the same thing with your horse – you’d send it around in figure eights or over the little jumps, just to switch it up a bit. So, we’ll look at some alternative methods over the next few days.”

Under Rob Key, McCullum and Stokes, England have been very clear to everyone – including the “has-beens” – that their approach is the way to win in Australia. They’ve regularly brushed aside any meaningful and constructive advice from England legends.

“England are irresponsible, rubbish and too far up their backsides to care,” wrote Sir Geoffrey Boycott in his post-Gabba column for The Telegraph. “England talk the talk but can’t walk the walk. With this sort of batting and bowling they couldn’t win an egg cup, let alone the Ashes urn.

“Ben Stokes said England had a blueprint. They had been planning this tour for four years and know what they are doing. What a load of bulls—. We can’t believe anything Ben or his team say. None of them want to listen to anyone outside of their own camp.”

McCullum’s post-match interview confirmed Boycott’s views. England abandoning their previous training methods after six days of cricket suggests they didn’t know it all and should have considered advice from players who have been there and done it. The decision to skip the pink-ball tour match, despite being against moderate opposition, doesn’t look like the greatest of calls after the visitors looked well short on match time and sharpness.

Will England abandon “Bazball” which has now been exposed?

On day four at the Gabba, Stokes and Will Jacks displayed the grit and discipline England didn’t care to produce in the previous five days of their wretched series. However, like Jofra Archer saving his fastest and most aggressive bowling for when it didn’t matter, the horse had bolted.

Now the key question is: Will England abandon their reckless batting approach? Do Zak Crawley, Ollie Pope and Harry Brook have the discipline to give the bowlers an hour or two and then cash in later? On the evidence of their Test careers, which spans a combined 156 matches, the answer is no.

Brendon McCullum interviews after England's heavy Ashes defeat at the Gabba shows they aren't as switched on as they have previously said.
Harry Brook has plenty of talent, but his game awareness is currently lacking.

Ben Stokes’ team must now pull off a feat achieved only once in Ashes history to regain the urn – winning a series from 0-2 down. In 1936/37, Sir Donald Bradman scored a remarkable 690 runs at 138 in the final three Tests to inspire the greatest-ever series comeback.

To ask for such a level of performance from any player in world cricket is unfair. However, England will do well to avoid a 5-0 whitewash with Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon to return. Plus, they clearly lack the grit, patience and fitness required to win in Australia. A number of their players are at the crease for a good time, not a long time.

Remember, it was only in Perth that McCullum told the world they are “married” to their style of cricket and to “keep the faith.”

Well, time is running out. And fast.

IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

Charbel Coorey
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0
IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Possible 11 Pitch Report

After India sealed the ODI series in emphatic fashion on Saturday, attention turns to the five-match T20I series starting in Cuttack on Tuesday.

The hosts are the best T20I team in the world, boasting a magnificent record since the start of 2024. They have won 37 of 41 completed matches in this period, including T20 World Cup and Asia Cup titles, along with a series win in Australia last month. Now, they are set to welcome Hardik Pandya back from injury, which makes them stronger.

So, South Africa face a tough test, but it serves as magnificent preparation for the upcoming T20 World Cup. They bat deep with their all-rounders capable of striking blows down the order. Whether their bowling attack can keep the strong Indian batting lineup in check remains to be seen.

IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Possible Playing XIs

India are set to welcome back Shubman Gill and Hardik Pandya. Hardik’s inclusion gives India plenty of balance with three seam and three spin options.

India: 1. Abhishek Sharma, 2. Shubman Gill, 3. Tilak Varma, 4. Suryakumar Yadav (c), 5. Axar Patel, 6. Jitesh Sharma/Sanju Samson (wk), 7. Hardik Pandya, 8. Kuldeep Yadav, 9. Varun Chakravarthy, 10. Arshdeep Singh, 11. Jasprit Bumrah

David Miller is in the squad and could feature in the top five alongside Markram, de Kock, Stubbs and Brevis. Anrich Nortje is also available and could play.

South Africa: 1. Aiden Markram (c), 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Tristan Stubbs, 4. Dewald Brevis, 5. David Miller, 6. Donovan Ferreira, 7. Marco Jansen, 8. Corbin Bosch, 9. George Linde/Lungi Ngidi, 10. Keshav Maharaj, 11. Ottneil Baartman/Anrich Nortje

Barabati Stadium Cuttack Pitch Report and Weather

Cuttack has played host to three T20Is, played in 2015, 2017 and 2022. The average first innings score is 140.

In the 2022 T20I between India and South Africa, the Proteas restricted India to 148/6. Heinrich Klaasen (81* off 46 balls) was the difference in a game where batters largely struggled. South Africa won by four wickets with 10 balls to spare.

No rain is forecast. The team who wins the toss is likely to chase.

Fantasy Cricket Tips for IND vs SA 1st T20 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats

Top wicket-keeper picks:

  • Quinton de Kock, fresh off a century in the third ODI, is a good pick in this match as he should open the batting. He also has a strong T20I record against India: 10 inns, 351 runs, avg. 43.87, SR 138.73.

Key batter picks:

  • Abhishek Sharma will be rearing to go. He has smashed 758 runs in the powerplay in all T20s this year at a strike rate of 188.6. The left-hander is a top captaincy pick.
  • Suryakumar Yadav is enduring some poor T20I form in 2025, with just 184 runs at 15.33. But, he has strong numbers against the Proteas with 372 runs at an average of 41.33 and strike rate of 163.87.
  • Dewald Brevis is a terrific spin hitter. He has smashed 426 runs at an average of 85.2 and strike rate of 182.8 against spin in all T20s this year. Brevis is also South Africa’s leading run-scorer this year in T20Is (395, avg. 35.90, SR 183.72).

Top all-rounder picks:

  • Hardik Pandya is back. Can he fire right away? The all-rounder has 231 runs (avg. 33, SR 121.57) and 11 wickets (avg. 33.54, econ. 8.58) against South Africa.
  • Aiden Markram recently hit a superb century in the ODI series. He averages 21.70 in 10 T20I innings against India; a record he can improve on.
  • Marco Jansen is a strong pick for Dream11 given his all-round form. He will be looking to improve his T20I record against India with six wickets currently at an average of 40.83 and economy of 9.07. He also has some tough matchups (see below).

Key bowler picks:

  • Arshdeep Singh has an outstanding record against Quinton de Kock. He has dismissed the South African opener three times for 19 runs in 19 balls in T20Is. Arshdeep also has the most wickets in IND-SA T20Is (18).
  • Varun Chakravarthy is India’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is this year (26) at a superb average of 13.96 and strike rate of 12. He also has a fine record against the Proteas, with 12 wickets in just four T20Is at an average of 11.50 and strike rate of 8.00.
  • Jasprit Bumrah has dismissed Aiden Markram four times in T20s (see below). He also has good overall numbers against David Miller (2/49 off 43 balls) and Tristan Stubbs (1/9 off 16 balls) in all T20s.

Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams

  • The experienced David Miller has the most runs in IND-SA T20Is (524) at an average of 34.93 and strike rate of 147.19.
  • Kuldeep Yadav has taken six wickets in three T20Is against South Africa, including figures of 5/17.
  • Tilak Varma has smashed two centuries in six T20Is against South Africa. He has 309 runs against them at an average of 77.25 and strike rate of 190.74.
  • Corbin Bosch had an excellent T20I series against Pakistan last month. He took seven wickets at an average of 7.85. He can also contribute with the bat.

Other Stats and Important Matchups

  • Head-to-head: Matches 31, India 18, South Africa 12, N/R 1.
  • Abhishek Sharma scored 97 runs in four T20Is against South Africa in 2024 (avg. 24.25, SR 173.21).
  • Suryakumar Yadav has five 50+ scores in 10 T20 innings against South Africa.
  • Keshav Maharaj vs. India in T20Is: 15 inns, 15 wickets, avg. 27.66, econ. 8.64.
  • Marco Jansen vs. Abhishek Sharma in all T20s: 22 balls, 49 runs, no dismissal.
  • Marco Jansen vs. Suryakumar Yadav in all T20s: 26 balls, 56 runs, one wicket.
  • Varun Chakravarthy vs. Quinton de Kock in all T20s: 32 balls, 39 wickets, two wickets.
  • Varun Chakravarthy vs. Aiden Markram in all T20s: 60 balls, 95 runs, four wickets.
  • Jasprit Bumrah vs. Aiden Markram in all T20s: 17 balls, 13 runs, one wicket.

IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

Note: The below teams are not based on the final playing XIs. We may not be able to update these in time. Use the stats and commentary in this article, as well as your own instincts, to create your teams. 

Option 1:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Cuttack Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Today.
IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

Option 2:

Screenshot from Dream11 app. Possible XIs, Fantasy Cricket Tips, Cuttack Pitch Report & Dream11 Prediction for IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Today.
IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction Today

IND vs SA 1st T20 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?

Chasing could prove pivotal in this match. However, India look very strong and I will back them to win this game.

Disclaimer: The fantasy cricket stats, tips and predictions provided on CricBlog are intended for informational purposes for Dream11 free contests in line with the Promotion and Regulation of Online Gaming Bill, 2025. The stats and writer’s views are in place to guide fans in creating their teams. While we strive to offer accurate and insightful advice, CricBlog does not guarantee success or winnings in any fantasy contests. Users are encouraged to make their own informed decisions and play responsibly.

All statistics and matchups in this article have been verified by ESPNcricinfo and Cricmetric.

Has a team ever come back from 2-0 down to win an Ashes series?

Charbel Coorey
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Has a team ever come back from 2-0 down to win an Ashes series?

Only once has a team come back from 2-0 down to win an Ashes series. Don Bradman’s 1936/37 Australia team won the final three Tests after they were thumped by 322 runs and an innings and 22 runs in the opening two matches.

Bradman himself led the way, hammering two double centuries and a century in Australia’s three victories. The greatest-ever Test batter hit 690 runs in the final three Tests at an incredible average of 138 to guide his team home.

1936/37 Ashes series results:

  • 1st Test, Brisbane: England won by 322 runs.
  • 2nd Test, Sydney: England won by an innings and 22 runs.
  • 3rd Test, Melbourne: Australia won by 365 runs.
  • 4th Test, Adelaide: Australia won by 148 runs.
  • 5th Test, Melbourne: Australia won by an innings and 200 runs.

England need to become the second team in history to win an Ashes series after going 2-0 down

Like 2023, England have gone down 2-0 in an Ashes series. On that occasion, England produced a stirring fightback, rallying hard after the Jonny Bairstow stumping at Lord’s. They won the third and fifth Tests, with rain stopping their charge in the fourth at Manchester.

Captain Ben Stokes has called for belief. He and Will Jacks showed the kind of grit and determination not previously displayed by the English team in a very costly six days of cricket across Perth and Brisbane.

“The worst thing to do now is to not have hopes and not realise that we still have the opportunity to do what we came out here to do,” Stokes said in the press conference, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo.

“We are 2-0 down but there’s three games left. If we lose hope over the next couple of weeks… even from next week, then we might as well not turn up.

“I haven’t lost hope, that dressing room hasn’t lost hope.”

However, coming back from 2-0 down in Australia is a completely different proposition. England have not won a Test down under since 2011, losing 15 of the 17 matches in this period. Also, Australia are set to welcome Pat Cummins back.

The Adelaide Test begins on December 17.

“My head is hot again” – England fans fume at Brendon McCullum’s “overprepared” comment in reaction to Gabba Test

Charbel Coorey
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“My head is hot again” – England fans fume at Brendon McCullum’s “overprepared” comment in reaction to Gabba Test

Brendon McCullum believes England “overprepared” for the Gabba Test, which they convincingly lost by eight wickets to go 2-0 down in the Ashes series. McCullum mentioned this in interviews with both Channel 7 and Test Match Special after England’s poor display.

“Leading into this Test match, I actually felt like we overprepared to be honest,” McCullum said on Channel 7.

“We had five intense training days and I think sometimes when you’re in the heat of the battle as we all know, sometimes the most important thing is to feel a little bit fresh and and I think the boys need a few days off and probably change up a few of the training methods a little.

“I’m a horse racing man and you wouldn’t just keep doing the same thing with your horse. You’d send it around in figure eight or jumps just to try switch it on a bit. We’ll look at some alternative methods in the next few days.

“We’ve got a couple of days in Noosa, which would be good to spend time casually and let the dust settle on what has been a pretty intense couple of weeks, and start to plot and plan our way back into the series.”

England fans not impressed with Brendon McCullum’s reaction to the Gabba defeat

Kevin Pietersen led a chorus of discontent around McCullum’s comments. “Crikey, Baz!” wrote Pietersen on X (formerly Twitter).

Truth be told, England looked underdone. They seemed spent after a day in the field, and simply lacked the grit and determination required to win in Australia. Day three at the Gabba showed the stark difference between the two sides in mentality and execution.

The visitors were simply woeful with the ball. They rarely hit the same spot for consecutive deliveries, often erring on the short side. When they pitched up, they delivered friendly doses of half volley after half volley.

“For something that Eng men’s cricket have purportedly been building up to for yrs, this seems incredibly binary,” wrote Isabelle Westbury in response to McCullum’s comments.

“Please tell me I misheard that & McCullum didn’t just say “we probably trained too much” to Aggers on TMS,” wrote England fan Adam Sutherland.

England, under the leadership of Rob Key, Brendon McCullum and Ben Stokes, have been very clear in the past that their ultimate goal is winning in Australia. McCullum’s comments are quite strange given England have been adamant they know what they are doing.

Let’s see what they have in store in Adelaide.

2nd Ashes Test Reactions: Australia smash England by eight wickets to take 2-0 lead

Charbel Coorey
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2nd Ashes Test Reactions: Australia smash England by eight wickets to take 2-0 lead

Australia have taken a huge step towards retaining the Ashes, taking a 2-0 series lead after thrashing England by eight wickets at the Gabba.

The visitors began day four 134/6, still trailing by 43 and needing a miracle to avoid defeat in a match that went downhill quickly on day three. However, Ben Stokes and Will Jacks combined for a partnership rarely seen in the Bazball era, showing the type of patience, grit and discipline not previously displayed by England in this Ashes series.

The pair combined for a 96-run stand in 36.4 overs, keeping the Australians at bay and slowly adding to the lead. But, there was simply too much to do, and the Australians bowled quite well despite the wicketless first session.

Michael Neser embodied Australia’s day four discipline the most, honing in on the offstump with remarkable precision. His love affair with the Gabba got him the nod over Nathan Lyon in this Test, and he delivered in spades, catching the edges of both Jacks and Stokes to make the remainder of the Test a formality.

The Jacks wicket will be remembered for years to come due to the sheer brilliance of Steve Smith. Australia’s captain took a one-handed blinder down to his left, made even more remarkable by the fact Alex Carey was up to the stumps. It was a wicket Australia needed at the time given England’s resistance, and Smith stood tall.

Speaking of Smith, he was soon face-to-face with Jofra Archer in a heated exchange late in the game. Archer exchanged words with the Aussie captain close to the finish line, and Smith took it personally, smashing the fast bowler for two fours and a six in a major exclamation point on a dominant Australian victory.

Reactions to the 2nd Ashes Test at the Gabba: Australia smash England yet again

Mitchell Starc won man of the match for his magnificent all-round performance. He took eight wickets – including 6/75 in the first innings – and scored a vital 77 off 141 on the third day which put the match firmly in Australia’s hands.

“Nice to put a partnership together, better to bowl later in the day so to get through as long as we did with the bat was key to push the innings back. And we got the rewards,” Starc said in the post-match presentation.

Australian fans are thrilled. This victory now marks 17 Tests without a home Ashes defeat, dating back to 2010/11. Along with Starc and Neser, Alex Carey was outstanding with the gloves and there were numerous contributors with the bat, including Jake Weatherald who hit a maiden Test fifty.

For England, there is plenty of soul searching to do as they face the improbable task of needing to win the remaining three Tests to regain the urn.

The third Test kicks off at Adelaide on December 17. England must win that Test to keep their Ashes hopes alive. Given there has been no win in Australia in nearly 15 years, plus the difficulties they are facing in this series, it is a tall order indeed.

Gabba Brisbane weather forecast for day 4 of 2nd Ashes Test

Charbel Coorey
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Gabba Brisbane weather forecast for day 4 of 2nd Ashes Test

England will be hoping the weather plays spoilsport on day 4 of the second Ashes Test at the Gabba. Ben Stokes’ team are in all sorts of trouble after a horrid third day where they conceded a lead of 177 and then fell to 134/6.

After three days of excellent weather in Brisbane, there is a chance of showers and storm on Sunday. But, will the rain come early enough to hand England a repreive?

Gabba weather forecast for day 4 of Ashes Test: Will it rain?

The Bureau of Meteorology forecasts “showers. Storm developing,” with a maximum of 31 degrees. However, the hourly forecast predicts those thunderstorms will come later in the evening.

Rain is expected: A look at the weather forecast for the day 4 of the 2nd Ashes Test at the Gabba, Brisbane
Gabba Brisbane weather day 4 of the 2nd Ashes Test – Bureau of Meteorology

AccuWeather also predicts thunderstorms in the evening. The platform forecasts “sun through high clouds and very warm; breezy in the afternoon” followed by “a thunderstorm or two in the evening: otherwise, overcast and humid.”

If the forecast eventuates, Australia will get the chance to bowl England out in the afternoon. Skipper Ben Stokes (24 balls) and Will Jacks (four balls) are both unbeaten on four with England desperately struggling at 134/6 and still trailing by 43 runs.

Even if rain interrupts a lot of day four, there is still another whole day on Monday. Some rain is also forecast on day five, but not enough to impact the match too much. So, England will have to somehow pull themselves out of the mire to avoid going 2-0 down in the series.

Rain is expected: A look at the weather forecast for the day 4 of the 2nd Ashes Test at the Gabba, Brisbane
Gabba Brisbane weather day 4 of the 2nd Ashes Test – AccuWeather

Earlier, Australia’s lower order rallied to take the hosts to 511. Mitchell Starc led the way with a magnificent 71, before the fast bowler showed his incredible fitness by maintaining speeds above 140km/h in England’s second innings.

Mitchell Starc delivers herculean performance to put Australia on the cusp of 2-0 Ashes series lead

Charbel Coorey
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Mitchell Starc delivers herculean performance to put Australia on the cusp of 2-0 Ashes series lead

Give him the man of the series award, now. Mitchell Starc had another magnificent day in the 2025/26 Ashes series, but this time his bat did most of the talking.

Australia, having started day three of the Gabba Test at 378/6, faced the prospect of bowling under the hot Brisbane sun in the third innings after some reckless batting on the second night. However, Starc headlined Australia’s best and most clinical day of the series so far, grinding England into the ground in a magnificent display of grit and patience to enable the hosts to start bowling at Ben Stokes’ team under lights.

In contrast to some of Australia’s wild batting on day two, Starc combined with Scott Boland (21* off 72 balls) for a patient, dogged 75-run stand that flattened the visitors. Australia’s number nine was in no mood to fall for England’s inexplicable short ball obsession, ducking and weaving with ease as the miles in the England bowlers’ legs continued to climb. Then, as was the case all innings, England’s attack strayed off line, and Starc pounced when the opportuniities presented themselves.

As Alex Carey, Starc and Boland wore England down, there were views from some corners that the Gabba pitch was very flat. But, Stokes himself found seam movement even with the old ball, and there were moments of uneven bounce. England, though, were nowhere near good enough to make full use of what was on offer, straying off their lines and lengths with alarming regularity.

Fans in awe as Mitchell Starc delivers magnificent all-round performance on day 3 of 2nd Ashes Test

Starc faced 141 deliveries in the Brisbane heat and humidity after taking 6/75 in the first innings. He eventually holed out to Ben Stokes at deep mid off and walked off to a standing ovation.

If that wasn’t enough, Starc produced a magnificent spell with the ball late in the day despite looking utterly exhausted. The left-armer understandably started England’s second innings a little flat, but by the time he found his rhythm, he took the crucial wicket of Joe Root to continue England’s decline into the abyss.

In contrast to his opponents who looked exhausted after a spell, Starc kept his speeds up, clocking well over 140km/h per hour even on the final delivery of the day.

Fans were in awe of Starc’s performance, taking to social media to express their views. “Starc is bowling 145kph/90mph in the final over of a day in which he has batted for 141 balls and then bowled another 12 overs. Just an incredible bowler,” one wrote on X (formerly Twitter).

“Mitchell Starc could skip the next three games and still be player of the series. He has been absolutely wonderful”, wrote another.

England started their second innings brightly, reaching 45/0 in the six overs before tea. However, Australia quickly got their act together after the break, honing in on their lines and lengths on a pitch offering movement plus up and down bounce.

Scott Boland dismissed Ben Duckett with one that stayed low. Zak Crawley and Ollie Pope looked promising, but gave the feeling a mistake wasn’t too far away. Both were out in almost identical fashion, inexplicably caught and bowled by Michael Neser after attempting those fatal drives on the up.

That period of play began a procession. Joe Root, who scored an elusive first Test hundred in Australia earlier in the match, was caught behind for 15 off the bowling of Starc. Brook and Smith soon nicked behind, and England were left on the mat, fighting for every breath in an Ashes series that is already slipping away quickly.

England will enter day four 134/6, still trailing by 43 runs. With all four of Australia’s frontline seamers in good rhythm, England need a miracle (or rain) to get out of the Gabba without a defeat, especially as they have lost a wicket every 29 deliveries in this series.

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