Fans have taken to social media as soon as the clock struck midnight to wish Virat Kohli a happy 37th birthday. Affectionately known as “King Kohli”, the batsman has delivered many memorable moments across formats in his illustrious career. This year alone, he won that elusive IPL title with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), helped India win the Champions Trophy, and reminded everyone he still has something to offer in ODIs.
Speaking of ODIs, only Sachin Tendulkar has more runs than Kohli’s 14,255. While breaking Tendulkar’s run tally of 18,426 won’t transpire, Kohli’s 51 centuries, average of 57.71 and chasing masterclasses are key parts of his legacy.
Tributes flow for Virat Kohli on his 37th birthday
In addition to ODIs, Kohli struck 9,230 Test runs. Despite a lean final few years in the whites, Kohli will go down as one of India’s greatest Test batters and captains, inspiring both current and future Indian teams to never take a backward step.
His 4,188 T20I runs are laden with memorable knocks, none more so than Mohali in the 2016 World Cup and the MCG in 2022. He is also just 339 runs away from 9,000 in the IPL, and fans are hoping he will don the RCB jersey for at least one more season.
“For the man who turned passion into poetry and fire into faith,” wrote RCBTweets on X (formerly Twitter). “The game is richer because of you.”
“Happy Birthday to the GOAT, Virat Kohli! A legend whose passion, consistency, and hunger have redefined modern cricket,” wrote another fan.
Here are some of the reactions to Virat Kohli’s 37th birthday.
For the man who turned passion into poetry and fire into faith. 🔥
Happy 3️⃣7️⃣th Birthday to, 👑 The King, 🔥 The Run Machine, 🏏 The Chase Master, 🥶 The Clutch God, 🐐 The G.O.A.T 🫶 Virat Prem Kohli 🥰
– 14,255 ODI runs. – 57.7 ODI average. – 9,230 Test runs. – 8,661 IPL runs. – 4,188 T20i runs. – 82 international hundreds. – World Cup winner. – 2x CT winner. – T20 World Cup winner. – IPL winner.
– ODI WC winner – T20 WC winner – Champions Trophy winner – U19 WC winner – 27673 Runs – 82 Hundreds – 52.21 Average – First Player to complete 50 Hundreds in ODI – POTM in T20 WC final – Greatest Indian Test Captain
A legend whose passion, consistency, and hunger have redefined modern cricket.
– Most ODI centuries in history – 51 – Over 25,000 international runs across formats – Fastest to 8k, 9k, 10k, 11k, and 12k ODI runs – ICC ODI Player of… pic.twitter.com/sdOB5EPLMU
Virat Kohli – A name that defines passion, Dominance & Aura. He's the Biggest Brand in cricket, the emotion for Billions. His records & his legacy is unmatched. The face of Cricket.
More than 200 players won CWC More than 300 players won U19 WC More than 150 players won CT More than 100 players won WT20 More than 368 players won test mace More than 450 players won IPL Only Virat Kohli has won it all.#HappyBirthdayViratKohlipic.twitter.com/xdGrMCqoQC
Virat Kohli is not just my favourite cricketer anymore. It's much more than that. Watching him bat gives me immense joy, and I'm glad to have watched your entire career. You're the greatest ever to touch the bat in all 3 formats for me. ❤️
It is the nature of the international cricket calendar that West Indies can be in Bangladesh one day and then in New Zealand a few days later. The Windies won the T20I series over in Bangladesh, but the polar opposite conditions will make this a tough initiation.
For New Zealand, inclement weather in Mount Maunganui, Christchurch and Mount Maunganui has disrupted their T20 World Cup preparations. They will be keen to get some momentum going after recent defeats to Australia and England. The bowlers in particular would have gained some confidence from thumping England 3-0 in the recemt ODI series.
Preparations for this match has been limited given the short turnaround for both teams. A good start in the powerplay is vital as the ground dimensions at Eden Park can make it very difficult for the bowling team to catch up.
Tim Seifert is out of this series with a broken finger, as confirmed by ESPNcricinfo. Devon Conway is likely to take his place at the top of the order. Kane Williamson has officially retired from T20Is.
New Zealand: 1. Devon Conway (wk), 2. Tim Robinson, 3. Rachin Ravindra, 4. Mark Chapman, 5. Daryl Mitchell, 6. Michael Bracewell, 7. James Neesham, 8. Mitchell Santner (c), 9. Kyle Jamieson, 10. Zak Foulkes, 11. Jacob Duffy
Gudakesh Motie is not in the squad, but West Indies have cover in terms of left-arm spin.
The weather has not been too kind for T20Is in New Zealand in recent weeks. However, good conditions are forecast for this match with clear conditions and a top of 24 degrees.
In the last five completed T20Is at Eden park, the average first innings score is 183.6 at an overall run rate of 10.27. The team batting first has won three of these games.
In T20Is since the start of 2023, fast bowlers have taken 53 wickets on this ground at an average of 22.96 and economy of 9.45. Spinners average 30.44 at an economy of 10.27; a tough ground given the very small boundaries.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for NZ vs WI 1st T20 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Shai Hope is a top pick in this match, selected in 83.43% of Dream11 teams. He looked in fine touch in both the Bangladesh T20Is and ODIs. However, he will have to adjust to Auckland conditions as quickly as possible.
Devon Conway will be looking to make a strong impression. He has 217 runs in six innings at Eden Park at an average of 43.40 and strike rate of 140.90.
Key batter picks:
Rachin Ravindra bats in the top three and is coming off decent form in the England ODIs (46 and 54 in his last two innings). A genuine Dream11 captaincy option.
Daryl Mitchell is also in fine touch with scores of 78*, 56* and 44 in the England ODIs. In five T20I innings at Eden Park, Mitchell has scored 156 runs at an average of 31.20 and strike rate of 173.33. This includes two fifties.
Top all-rounder picks:
West Indies are likely to fetch a lot of their fantasy points through their all-rounders. Romario Shepherd and Jason Holder will provide overs (it is also possible they will bowl in the crunch overs given the makeup of their squad). Both can also hit a long ball down the order.
Mitchell Santner has 10 wickets in nine T20I innings against West Indies (avg. 20.40, SR 15.60). He also strikes every 22.33 deliveries at Eden Park.
Key bowler picks:
Jacob Duffy has taken five wickets in two T20I innings at Eden Park. Duffy was also in the wickets in the England series.
Zak Foulkes can test the West Indies as they look to adjust to very different batting conditions. Like Duffy, Foulkes has been in the wickets recently.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Akeal Hosein is picked in 77.65% of Dream11 teams, but you can leave him out of your team if you wish to take a risk. Spinners haven’t had the best of times in recent years at Eden Park.
Jayden Seales can test the Black Caps top order with his ability to swing the new ball. Also, expect Seales to bowl in the death overs, which can bring about wicket-taking opportunities.
Tall quick Kyle Jamieson can extract bounce off the surface and test a Windies lineup that is coming off Bangladeshi conditions.
Michael Bracewell and Roston Chase are two spinning all-rounders that can provide all-round value in fantasy. Picking one is probably ideal, depending on who bats first.
Rovman Powell can provide the fireworks on a small ground. He is striking at 184.2 between overs 16 and 20 in all T20s this year.
Tim Robinson hit a recent T20I century against Australia and will bat up the order. A worthwhile option to consider for fantasy cricket.
Other Stats and Facts
Head-to-head in T20Is: Matches 20, New Zealand 11, West Indies 7, N/R 2.
New Zealand lead West Indies 8-1 in home T20Is.
James Neesham has seven wickets in five innings at Eden Park and has a good batting record against West Indies: 8 inns, 138 runs, avg. 34.50, SR 162.48.
NZ vs WI 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction
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:
NZ vs WI 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
NZ vs WI 1st T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction
NZ vs WI 1st T20 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?
New Zealand to 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.
Steve Smith says he hopes he will be respected by Australian cricket fans after he retires. In an exclusive interview for Fox Cricket ahead of the Ashes, Smith shed light on some of the happiest and toughest moments of his career to date.
One of the questions asked by Mark Howard was how Smith would like to be remembered once he hangs up the boots from Test cricket. The great batsman, who currently has 10,477 runs at 56.02, says he hopes to have had a positive impact on people despite the controversies of the past.
Steve Smith hopes to be respected by Australian fans after he retires
“I’m not sure, I guess respected,” Smith said. “Hopefully that I’ve been able to have an impact on loads of results and you hear a lot of people say they try to leave the game in a better place than when they started and hopefully I’ve been able to do that along the period and help some young players come through.
“It’s a difficult question to answer, but respected is the word I’d look at.”
During the interview, Smith also revealed the learnings from Sandpapergate in 2018. He came back stronger than ever in 2019, putting together one of the greatest individual performances in an Ashes series.
“To have a close group of people to speak to and have honest conversations… I think that’s really important,” Smith said. “I guess being kind to yourself as well, so many things can go through your mind… just being kind to yourself and saying everything will be OK is important.
“People go through different phases in their life and difficult periods and stuff… having people or person you can speak to is important to help you get through difficult moments.”
Smith geared up for the 2025/26 Ashes series with a century for New South Wales against Queensland in the Sheffield Shield last week. Australia’s number four will be crucial to the team’s chances against England given the uncertainty around the top three plus Smith’s incredible record as captain and against England as a whole.
Smith, with 3,417 runs, is only behind Sir Donald Bradman, Sir Jack Hobbs and Allan Border in terms of runs in Ashes Tests. Also, Smith will lead the team in Pat Cummins’ absence, and embraces the role of captaincy. He has a batting average of 68.98 in 40 Tests as skipper compared to 49.90 in his remaining 79 matches.
Brendon McCullum says England need to get better on pitches offering movement for the bowlers. However, the head coach believes this is an issue his team faces more in ODI cricket as they struggle to get the tempo right in the 50-over format.
England were swept 3-0 in New Zealand. Their batting lineup struggled significantly on seaming pitches. The top four contributed just 84 runs altogether – the fewest runs by a top four in an ODI men’s series where they batted at least three times.
“I think when we’re confronted with good, flat wickets, we’re a very, very good cricket team,” McCullum said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “I think we play a high-octane style of cricket and those conditions suit us. When the wickets have a little bit in them and they’re a bit more challenging, whether that be spin or seam or swing, we probably can’t quite adapt our tempo quick enough.
“We’ve got some talented players. But, unfortunately, our performances at the moment in this form of the game aren’t quite up to scratch and we need to rectify that.”
New Zealand ODIs not a concern heading into the Ashes – Brendon McCullum
McCullum doesn’t think England’s batting on seaming surfaces is a concern ahead of the Ashes. The head coach believes England’s Test side has adjusted to different conditions better than the ODI side has.
“I like to separate it,” McCullum said. “I think in T20 cricket we’re going really well and in Test cricket we have a pretty decent idea of where we’re at – and I think we’ve performed reasonably well, albeit we have a huge challenge ahead of us.
“One-day cricket is clearly the area we need to improve, and my comments are more directed at one-day cricket. I think when we do come across the trickier conditions in Australia and Test cricket, we have a pretty good understanding of how we’re going to go about it. It doesn’t guarantee us anything but it gives us a level of confidence going into that series.”
McCullum explains the key to performing well in the Ashes
How well England cope against the red ball in Australian conditions remains to be seen. Pitches in Australia have assisted the fast bowlers in recent years. This was especially the case at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) against India in January.
Also, a number of England players are unproven in Australian conditions. However, it is a challenge McCullum is looking forward to.
“I’m proper excited [about the Ashes],” McCullum said. “We’re incredibly respectful of the challenge Australia is going to present us. We know how hard that tour is going to be.
“It’s going to require a team to stay together right throughout, to be as strong as we can to try and block out any of the outside noise. But we’re very respectful of who we’re coming up against. We’re so excited to get over there and we can’t wait to get started.”
The first Ashes Test gets underway at Perth’s Optus Stadium on November 21.
After a drawn Test series and Pakistan victory in the T20Is, attention turns to ODI cricket with a view towards 2027. Pakistan, led now by Shaheen Shah Afridi, are aiming to improve their 50-over cricket after very disappointing performances in the Champions Trophy and West Indies earlier this year.
The hosts take on a South Africa team missing a number of first-team players. However, they welcome back Quinton de Kock who previously reversed his decision to retire from ODIs. The keeper-batsman will provide some much-needed experience in a squad that does include plenty of exciting talent including Dewald Brevis and Corbin Bosch.
Iqbal Stadium in Faisalabad hosts its first ODI since way back in 2008. Pakistan beat Bangladesh by seven wickets over 17 years ago. Thankfully the weather will be nice and clear, and Shaheen Shah Afridi’s team are aiming for a happy homecoming to Faislabad.
Abdullah Shafique and Hasan Ali, who both played in Pakistan’s last ODI, are not in the squad.
Pakistan: 1. Fakhar Zaman, 2. Saim Ayub, 3. Babar Azam, 4. Mohammad Rizwan (wk), 5. Salman Agha, 6. Hasan Nawaz, 7. Hussain Talat/Faheem Ashraf, 8. Mohammad Nawaz, 9. Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), 10. Naseem Shah, 11. Abrar Ahmed
Sinethemba Qeshile has been in good form recently and is a chance of earning an ODI debut.
South Africa: 1. Tony de Zorzi, 2. Quinton de Kock (wk), 3. Matthew Breetzke (c), 4. Sinethemba Qeshile/Donovan Ferreira, 5. Dewald Brevis, 6. Lhuan-dre Pretorius, 7. Corbin Bosch, 8. George Linde, 9. Bjorn Fortuin, 10. Lungi Ngidi, 11. Nandre Burger
Iqbal Stadium Faisalabad Pitch Report and Weather
As mentioned, this will be the first ODI on this ground since 2008. Based on the List A matches last year, Faisalabad is typically a high-scoring ground where the team batting first often wins.
In 17 List A matches across the Champions Cup and President’s Cup Grade-I (1-Day) in October 2024, the average first innings score was 286.71 at a run rate of 5.88. The team batting first won 12 matches. No team successfully chased 200+ in these matches.
A warm and clear day is forecast with a top temperature of 30 degrees. There is the possibility of dew in the second innings.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for PAK vs SA 1st ODI 2025: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Quinton de Kock has endured a poor return to international cricket with scores of 1, 23, 7 and 0 in T20Is against Namibia and Pakistan. However, he can benefit from the extra time in ODIs in good batting conditions.
In 16 ODIs against Pakistan, de Kock has 590 runs at an average of 36.87 and strike rate of 88.19.
Mohammad Rizwan will be proactive in the middle order. Pakistan’s number four has 343 ODI runs against the Proteas at an average of 42.87 and strike rate of 88.86. He hit 122* in the last meeting.
Key batter picks:
Babar Azam is looking to build on confidence from the T20I series. He struck scores of 76 (79) and 104* (100) on this ground in the 2024 Champions One Day Cup.
Babar also has an excellent ODI record against South Africa: 15 inns, 744 runs, avg. 57.23, SR 85.32. This includes six fifties and a century.
Matthew Breetzke had a horror T20I series, but he returns to a format he has had great success in this year (467 runs, avg. 77.83, four fifties, one hundred). This includes scores of 150 and 83 in two ODIs in Pakistan.
Top all-rounder picks:
Saim Ayub is picked in 83.99% of Dream11 teams as he can provide fireworks against an inexperienced Proteas attack. Ayub is a potential captaincy option in Dream11 if Pakistan bats second.
Corbin Bosch is a hit-the-deck bowler who will look to trouble the Pakistani middle and lower order in particular. Bosch was in the runs and wickets in the T20I series, and he offers excellent value from a fantasy point of view.
Mohammad Nawaz dismissed de Zorzi, Brevis and Ferreira during the T20Is. He will get through his overs and provides a valuable batting option down the order.
Key bowler picks:
Shaheen Shah Afridi has a good matchup against Quinton de Kock. Not only has he dismissed him in T20Is, but he has also dismissed him three times in ODIs (84 balls, 87 runs). Afridi has also dismissed Tony de Zorzi twice in 53 balls (57 runs).
Lungi Ngidi is the experienced player in South Africa’s bowling lineup, but has some poor matchups (see below). Can he overcome them? His changes of pace can bring about some wicket-taking opportunities.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Nandre Burger went wicketless in the ODIs, but he is worth considering as he bowls in the crunch overs.
Abrar Ahmed is worth a pick if Pakistan bowl first. He can find spin either way and challenge and inexperienced Proteas lineup.
Tony de Zorzi has been in decent form of late and can benefit from good batting conditions at the top of the order.
Salman Agha struck 134 (103) in a man of the match performance against South Africa earlier this year.
Dewald Brevis made starts in the final two T20Is and will look to carry on here. He is a good spin-hitter and these batting conditions can suit his style.
Other Stats and Important Matchups
Head-to-head: Matches 87, Pakistan 34, South Africa 52, N/R 1.
Saim Ayub averages 60.1 batting second compared to 36.2 batting first in ODIs.
Lungi Ngidi vs Fakhar Zaman in ODIs: 44 balls, 59 runs, no dismissal.
Lungi Ngidi vs Babar Azam in ODIs: 52 balls, 63 runs, no dismissal.
Corbin Bosch vs Mohammad Rizwan in ODIs: 25 balls, 35 runs, no dismissal.
Corbin Bosch has enjoyed success against Babar Azam in T20Is (14 balls, 21 runs, two wickets). Can he do the same in ODIs?
PAK vs SA 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction
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:
PAK vs SA 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
PAK vs SA 1st ODI 2025 Dream11 Prediction
PAK vs SA 1st ODI 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?
Pakistan to 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.
There are more changes to Australia’s squad for the ongoing T20I series against India. All members of Australia’s likely first Ashes Test squad will feature in the fourth round of the Sheffield Shield. Hence, the hosts will field a changed lineup for the fourth T20 against India at Gold Coast’s Carrara Oval.
Travis Head has left the T20I squad. He will play for South Australia against Tamania in Hobart, as confirmed by cricket.com.au. That match begins on November 10 and is the final round of the Sheffield Shield before the Ashes begins in Perth on November 21.
Australia set for changes in the 4th T20 against India
Australia possible 11 for 4th T20: 1. Mitchell Marsh (c), 2. Matt Short, 3. Josh Inglis (wk), 4. Tim David, 5. Glenn Maxwell, 6. Marcus Stoinis, 7. Mitch Owen, 8. Xavier Bartlett, 9. Ben Dwarshuis, 10. Nathan Ellis, 11. Adam Zampa/Matt Kuhnemman/Tanveer Sangha
Matt Short, who is a specialist opener in T20 cricket, is likely to replace Travis Head at the top of the order.
If fit, Glenn Maxwell will slot in the middle order. The all-rounder missed the Hobart T20I as Australia took a cautious approach giving him more time to recover from the wrist injury he suffered during the recent tour of New Zealand.
“He appears likely to be back for the fourth match in the series on the Gold Coast on Thursday,” read a cricket.com.au report. Josh Philippe is also in the squad and will likely play if Maxwell is ruled out.
The aforementioned publication also reports that Adam Zampa is an outside chance of featuring in the series. He is currently at home near Byron Bay as his wife is due to give birth to their second child. As both of the final matches are in Queensland, Zampa could feature in either (or both) if circumstances permit.
Legspinner Tanveer Sangha was also released from the T20I squad to play for New South Wales in the One Day Cup match against Queensland on Monday. He is expected to return to the squad ahead of the fourth T20I and could feature in the XI.
On the pace-bowling front, Ben Dwarshuis is now in the squad after recovering from a calf injury. He could replace Sean Abbott who had a difficult outing in the third T20I. 20-year-old Mahli Beardman is also an option. If picked, it will be the fast bowler’s international debut.
The series is currently locked at 1-1 after India sealed a convincing five-wicket win in Hobart on Sunday. Gold Coast (Thursday November 6) and the Gabba in Brisbane (Saturday November 8) will host the final two matches.
The 2025 Online Gaming Bill put an end to fantasy cricket as we knew it. The bill was introduced due to the financial risk involved with players investing money to join paid contests to play fantasy sports.
“It is the duty of the government and the parliament to take strict action against social evils, which keep erupting time and again,” federal IT minister Ashwini Vaishnaw said in parliament back in August, as quoted by Reuters.
Currently, fans can still play fantasy cricket via free contests on Dream11. The platform is offering prizes including cash and smartphones. There is the presence of third-party ads on the Dream11 app which assists in revenue-generation.
Can there be a subscription model for Dream11 and fantasy cricket under the 2025 Online Gaming Bill?
However, one prominent question is whether fantasy cricket can operate as a subscription model under the law.
Sports lawyer Vidushpat Singhania shed light on this. He said that a subscription model is permissable under 2025 Online Gaming Bill as it’s the real money gaming that has been banned.
“There will be a subscription fee and say you pay Rs 100 for a gaming app and test your skills in fantasy gaming,” Singhania told PTI earlier in 2025, as quoted by The Economic Times. “But real money gaming which is paying and earning money, that is prohibited as per this bill.”
Previously, players could invest money in as many contests for as many cricket matches as they wanted to. However, this led to addictions and financial harm, which is why the 2025 Online Gaming Bill was introduced. Dream11 shut down its real-money gaming (RMG) business as a result.
Under a prospective subscription model, fantasy cricket players can invest one set amount per month. They can then play in matches that the platform allows them to depending on their investment. Time will tell as to whether this does eventuate.
After many near misses over the years, India got over the line this time, beating South Africa by 52 runs to win their first ever Women’s Cricket World Cup title. Shafali Verma, who was brought into the squad due to Pratika Rawal’s injury, produced an inspired performance that will be remembered for many years to come.
“Of course, what happened with Pratika – as a sportsperson, seeing that doesn’t feel good. No one wants any player to go through such an injury. But I believe God has sent me here to do something good,” said Shafali earlier this week, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. It is incredible how things transpired, with Shafali, along with player of the tournament Deepti Sharma, producing fantastic all-round displays.
Shafali and Smriti Mandhana (46) got India off to a strong start, combining for a 100-plus stand. It was a terrific partnership given the delayed start and presence of some movement following the rain. The Proteas then began to fight back in the middle, but India’s team spirit prevailed again as Deepti Sharma (58) and Richa Ghosh (34) ensured they reached a very competitive 298/7.
In response, the great Laura Wolvaardt led the way but crucially lacked support as South Africa lost too many regular wickets. At 209/5 in the 40th over, the Proteas were a genuine chance, but the fact their first seven partnerships read: 51, 11, 52, 9, 25, 61 and 11 proved costly. One big partnership could have got them over the line, and that could have been the opening stand as the 51-run partnership was cut short by an unnecessary run out.
Spare a thought for Wolvaardt. The classy opener deserved to be on the winning team. Her 98-ball 101 was her second-straight century following her classic against England, culminating in 571 runs in the tournament at an average of 71.37 with three fifties and two hundreds. However, with her in great form and a young South African team featuring in finals, their time could well be coming.
World Cup winning moment. Witnessed one of the greatest moments in Indian cricket history. Chak de Chak de India 🇮🇳🏆 pic.twitter.com/ZWe9tFkDqZ
IND-W vs SA-W Twitter Reactions: India win first ever World Cup title after so many near misses
On most days, a performance of 58 (58) and 5/39 wins you the player of the match award. Deepti Sharma was simply outstanding, keeping things tight in the middle and picking up the crucial wicket of Annerie Dercksen as South Africa were gaining momentum. She soon took the wicket of Laura Wolvaardt courtesy of Amanjot Kaur’s juggling catch. From there, it was clear who he winning team would be.
Credit to Shafali as well, who also bowled superbly. “If my heart is saying I should give at least one over to her, I’m going to give her,” said Harmanpreet Kaur, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. “And then I just asked her, ‘can you bowl one over?’ And she was so ready, and she’s always wanted to bowl for the team. I think that was a turning point for us.”
India’s win has sparked huge reactions on social media. India fans are thrilled, the neutrals were in awe of how far they – and the women’s game overall – has come in recent years. South Africa fans were heartbroken, but they can take heart from their efforts.
“This is a moment in time that will change the course of the women’s game,” wrote Harsha Bhogle on X (formerly Twitter). “What I like most about this India victory is that it wasn’t the superstars that won it. A knock from Shafali, a dig from Richa, some all round Deepti resilience. None are their headline acts. But such a core part of this team’s story. Fabulous. Here’s to the legacy,” wrote Isabelle Westbury.
Here are some of the reactions to an incredible game as India savour World Cup glory.
Inspiration for generations to come, you’ve made every Indian proud with your fearless cricket and belief throughout. You guys deserve all the accolades and enjoy the moment to the fullest. Well done Harman and the team. Jai Hind 🇮🇳🇮🇳 pic.twitter.com/f9J34QIMuP
Make no mistake. This is the greatest cricketing win this century. On par with 1983 given all the odds that were stacked against them & the fact that they overcame the overwhelming favourites.
What I like most about this India victory is that it wasn’t the superstars wot won it. A knock from Shafali, a dig from Richa, some all round Deepti resilience. None are their headline acts. But such a core part of this team’s story. Fabulous. Here’s to the legacy. #CWC25
Many more legends who has been fighting hard for Women's cricket in India over decades finally got what they deserve. We have the ICC Crown. FINALLY. 😍
The best moment of the day was the hug between the players and Mithali, Jhulan and Anjum. The hug between Jhulan and Harman, and the former bawling her eyes out. This is what it means. ❤️
Deepti Sharma is the first player in history, across both women's and men's formats, to score 50 runs and take 5 wickets in a final of white-ball international cricket. Her remarkable all-round performance leads India to their first ever Women's World Cup title. #CWC25
Take nothing away from the South African Women. Out for 69 in the first game they could have easily given up but they've gone on one helluva run and made us all proud. Future is bright for this side 💚💛
Also, I hope this World Cup win gets more women to watch the women's game. Apart from my colleagues who work in sport, I honestly don't know a lot of women who follow women's cricket. Hope that changes now.
India win the World Cup! They timed their run perfectly and have done it in front of their own fans. Deepti Sharma (58 and 5-39) the Queen of Navi Mumbai!
What a wonderful campaign the South African women ran. And one day, hopefully for them, they will shed tears of joy. Privilege to watch Laura Wolvaardt and her team.
SA making all these finals in a row without any professional league or anything back home. Just pure grit and talent. It needs structure. Help them out with Women’s SA 20, @GraemeSmith49. #CWC25
— australian womens cricket with very little context (@awcwvlc) November 2, 2025
Indian Women's team handed the World Cup trophy to Mithali Raj 👌
Congratulations to India on their historic first #ICCWomensWorldCup2025 win. It is scary good how much potential this win has in shifting the balance of power in the women’s game and what this cricketing nation can go on to become🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾.
Congratulations to the India womens team for finally getting over the line and realising their huge potential. South Africa have been strong for several years now and their time will come, hold their heads high and go again.
Spare a thought for the South African players. They gave it their all. From being totally crushed in the first game to winning games from tough situations, they showed how a team progresses through ups and downs during a World Cup. They are getting very close. I hope their time… pic.twitter.com/X7onMTJCdt
— Broken Cricket Dreams Cricket Blog (@cricket_broken) November 2, 2025
Only a few people know how hard it is for women to pick up sports as a career in this country. What this team has done today will change the tide for women sport. Just absolutely tearing up at the thought.
Those two dropped catches were costly, as were the number of soft dismissals with the bat. Good campaign by the Proteas, but those players are going to have a lot of regrets tonight and in the next few days. As great as Wolvaardt is, she simply cannot do it alone.
Mumbai just proves it again, there is no better place to host an ICC final. The atmosphere, the passion, the luck, everything about this city screams cricket.
Josh Hazlewood’s magnificent start to the season has continued, producing a man of the match performance in the second T20I against India. Hazlewood ripped through the Indian top order in an exhibition of seam bowling on an MCG pitch offering bounce.
In a format where unpredictability is important from a bowling perspective, Hazlewood continues to find success by keeping things simple. His control of length, ability to get the ball to rise, and skill to seam the ball both ways is a treat to watch.
Hazlewood finished the powerplay with figures of 3/6, giving Shubman Gill in particular a torrid time. Given how well he has been bowling of late – most notably in his all-time none-for in the Adelaide ODI – it was a matter of time before he would tick the wickets column over. He then dismissed Suryakumar Yadav with a peach and soon had Tilak Varma top edging an attempted hoick to the legside.
Beats (a very good) batter on the inside, then the outside, then with bounce, wild lol pic.twitter.com/QWyOw21SM4
The fast bowler finished with figures of 3/13. From there, India were always behind the eight-ball. Abhishek Sharma tried his best, but the fact he was starved of the strike made the task all the more difficult. He was dismissed in the 19th over having faced 37 balls for his 68. India finished with 125, which Australia chased with 40 balls to spare.
“The way he [Hazlewood] bowled today, even I got surprised,” said Abhishek in the post-match press conference. “I haven’t seen something like this in T20s. This is something new for me as well.
“I’m a batter who wants to dominate. But when I was seeing on the other side how he’s bowling and even to me as well, it seems like he had a plan and he was just executing it.”
Attention turns to the Ashes for Josh Hazlewood after superb spell of 3/13
Hazlewood will now leave the Australian T20I squad to prepare for the Ashes. Fans on social media are also looking ahead to the Ashes, wondering how the England batsmen will cope with Hazlewood in such form.
The five-match Test series is expected to be played on some lively pitches, as has been the case in recent Australian summers. With Hazlewood so consistent and question marks around the England batting lineup’s ability to deal with the moving ball, it promises to make for fascinating viewing.
“He’s been immense, and looks at peak fitness. Think he could be in for an all-timer Ashes,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter).
“The way poms bat England has no chance in this Ashes in Australia”, wrote another.
England batters when they get to know they will face this Hazlewood in the Ashes😭 pic.twitter.com/a1R1ajEmxu
Hazlegwood is in some peak form Bowling late 130s to 140 line, length, pace – all superb A bit of luck, fit body, and he will set the Ashes series on fire
Josh Hazlewood's spell at the MCG tonight: 4-0-13-3 including 15 dot balls.😮 The only boundary which he conceded was off an outside edge. Would've had a 4th wicket had a slip been kept in place. He is well and truly back. Great signs for Australia heading into the Ashes! pic.twitter.com/av19MW2IUH
If Josh Hazlewood and Scott Boland keep themselves fit for the entire 5 tests Australia will win the test series 5-0. The way they're bowling right now England have lot of reasons to be concerned right now.
Hazlewood will play one Sheffield Shield match before the Ashes, according to cricket.com.au. “This year I’m going to miss a couple of T20s to do that. Which I certainly don’t like doing, missing games for Australia,” he said earlier in October.
“But in the long run it is about getting the best prep for the Ashes as well. You can’t have everything and that’s the trade off at the moment.”
The first Ashes Test begins on November 21 at Perth’s Optus Stadium.
Australia took a 1-0 lead in the five-match T20I series courtesy of a comprehensive victory at the MCG. Set up by the fast bowlers – in particular Josh Hazlewood – Australia were too good for an Indian lineup that struggled to cope with the bounce.
Only Abhishek Sharma stood up for India, and he faced just 37 balls by the time he was dismissed in the 19th over. The visitors need partnerships this time around – the kind that Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav put on in Canberra before rain had the final say.
For Australia, they will be without Josh Hazlewood (see below), so it’s an opportunity for others to step up. Also, Glenn Maxwell is a chance of returning, and he will provide additional power to this already-strong batting lineup.
Victory for Australia will mean they cannot lose this five-match series. India must win to keep their hopes of a series victory alive. A cracking match is in store at the picturesque Bellerive Oval.
There will be a few changes for Australia. Josh Hazlewood is not available for this match as he will now prepare for the Ashes. However, Glenn Maxwell is back and available for selection after fracturing his forearm in the recent New Zealand tour. However, he has to pass a fitness test, as he confirmed on ABC radio commentary during the second T20I.
For details on Australia’s squad changes during this T20I series, check out our dedicated article.
We caught up with Glenn Maxwell, and got an update on his injured wrist.
It's apparently healing nicely, although not if Maxi digs out any more divots on the fairway. 😂
Australia: 1. Mitchell Marsh (c), 2. Travis Head, 3. Josh Inglis (wk), 4. Tim David, 5. Mitch Owen, 6. Glenn Maxwell/Matt Short, 7. Marcus Stoinis, 8. Sean Abbott, 9. Xavier Bartlett, 10. Nathan Ellis, 11. Matt Kuhnemann
India shifted their batting order in the MCG T20I. It didn’t go to plan as they were bowled out for just 125. Here, they could look to play Tilak Varma in his preferred number three position.
The average first innings score in the last 10 men’s T20s at Bellerive Oval is 166.7 at a run rate of 8.41. Chasing teams have fared well, scoring at a faster rate of 9.30 overall and winning seven of these matches.
Pace bowlers have taken 61 wickets at an average of 30.86 and economy of 8.80 in this period. Spinners average 34.36 per wicket and concede a lower 7.85 per over.
A warm day is forecast with only a small chance of showers in the evening. For more information on the Hobart weather, read our dedicated article.
Fantasy Cricket Tips for AUS vs IND 3rd T20: Key Players to Watch/Key Stats
Top wicket-keeper picks:
Both wicket-keepers batted at three in the MCG T20I, but Josh Inglis is a greater chance of batting there in this game. Inglis spent some time in the middle on his return to the crease at the MCG.
Batting at three this year, Inglis has scored 408 runs in all T20s at an average of 34 and strike rate of 183.8.
Key batter picks:
Abhishek Sharma played a lone hand in the MCG defeat. His 37-ball 68 was full of the typical Abhishek class. In all T20s this year, the left-hander has belted 1,119 runs (avg. 41.4) at a remarkable strike rate of 199.1.
Abhishek looks an excellent Dream11 captaincy choice in this game. Australia won’t be playing a left-arm seamer (Sharma has been dismissed six times in 74 balls against this bowling type this year). Also, Hazlewood is not available.
Mitchell Marsh continued his magnificent 2025 in the MCG T20I. His 26-ball 46 included two fours and four sixes, and he looked comfortable against both pace and spin. The Australian captain has 1,040 runs in all T20s this year (avg. 44.3, SR 164.3).
Shubman Gill is having a quiet year in T20Is, with 169 runs at an average of 24.1 (SR 148.2). On a good batting pitch and Hazlewood-less attack, this is a good opportunity for Gill to score.
Top all-rounder picks:
Axar Patel didn’t bowl at the MCG, but he is worth a pick here as he bats in the top six. Also, pick Axar if India play with one other spinner (Varun or Kuldeep). Overall, he has 15 wickets in nine matches at an average of 13.86 and strike rate of 13.20 against Australia.
If picked, can Glenn Maxwell fire right away? He is capable. The all-rounder played a gem in his last T20I (against South Africa) and has the second-most runs in AUS-IND T20Is: 574, avg. 31.88, SR 152.25. Also, Maxwell can contribute with the ball and fields in the hotspot positions, which can translate to fantasy cricket points.
Key bowler picks:
Jasprit Bumrah looked in fine touch in the second T20I at the MCG. He now has 19 wickets against Australia in T20Is at an average of 22.63 and strike rate of 17.21. Bumrah also has a very dominant record against Glenn Maxwell (see below).
Nathan Ellis has the second-most wickets in T20s on this ground (42). He averages 21.48 with a strike rate of 16.79. However, Ellis is typically a defensive bowler, so keep this in mind for fantasy cricket.
Other Players to Consider for your Fantasy Cricket Teams
Travis Head has three 20+ scores in India’s tour of Australia. Can he go on with a start here? Good batting conditions are expected and Head can cash in.
Suryakumar Yadav, who has had a poor year in T20Is to date, can also benefit from a Hazlewood-less attack. SKY enjoys batting in Australia, with 279 runs at an average of 55.80 and strike rate of 181.16.
Tim David bats at number four and has plenty of experience on this ground. In 26 innings, he has scored 577 runs at an average of 44.38 and strike rate of 170.71.
Tilak Varma scored the second-most runs for India in the 2025 Asia Cup: 6 inns, 213 runs, avg. 71.00, SR 131.48. Logic says he should bat in the top three or four, but time will tell.
Varun Chakravarthy bowled nicely at the MCG. He’s had the better of Travis Head this year (CT semi-final and 2nd T20I). Spinners are usually more economical in Hobart and Chakravarthy is capable of taking wickets.
Xavier Bartlett continues to take wickets for Australia. He is worth considering for your fantasy teams as he has 33 wickets in all T20s this year at a strike rate of 15.84.
Other Stats and Important Matchups
Head-to-head in T20Is: Matches 34, Australia 12, India 20, N/R 2.
Australia are aiming for their first home T20I series win against India since 2008.
Mitch Owen has an outstanding record at this ground: 8 inns, 352 runs, avg. 50.29, SR 200.
Jasprit Bumrah vs Glenn Maxwell in all T20s: 65 balls, 75 runs, seven wickets.
Marcus Stoinis vs Sanju Samson in all T20s: 21 balls, 27 runs, two wickets.
Axar Patel vs Marcus Stoinis in all T20s: 40 balls, 23 runs, four wickets.
AUS vs IND 3rd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction
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:
AUS vs IND 3rd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction
Option 2:
AUS vs IND 3rd T20 2025 Dream11 Prediction
AUS vs IND 3rd T20 2025 Match Prediction: Who will win?
The chasing team is likelier to win. However, I’m expecting India to bounce back given there will be some changes to Australia’s team.
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.
