RIP Bazball
One of the game’s finest entertainers, Brendon McCullum reinvented an ailing England side with his ultra-aggressive “Bazball” philosophy. England’s fearless approach, taking the attack to opposition bowlers at every opportunity, won admirers and breathed fresh life into Test cricket.
But the approach came unstuck on Australia’s bigger grounds as England failed to regain the Ashes. McCullum survived that disappointment, but a home Test series defeat to New Zealand coupled with off-field distractions eventually forced the ECB to part ways with him as Test coach. He will, however, continue as England’s white-ball coach with the 2027 World Cup in South Africa firmly in sight.
The search for McCullum’s successor has already begun, with several high-profile candidates in the frame. Many are wondering whether former England coach Andy Flower would be tempted to return.
Flower remains the man many believe can fix England’s broken system. During his five year tenure from 2009 to 2014, England won three successive Ashes series, ended a 27 year wait for a Test series victory in India and climbed to the top of the ICC Test rankings. Whether he is interested in returning is another matter. If not, former India captain Rahul Dravid shapes as a leading contender. His calm demeanour, meticulous planning and proven record could persuade the ECB to look towards India for one of the game’s highest profile coaching jobs.
England Women suffer heavy defeat
England Women slumped to a crushing 270 run defeat against India Women in the one off Test at Lord’s. Still hurting from their World Cup final loss to Australia a week earlier, England never recovered as India outplayed them in every department.
It was the first women’s Test to be staged at the Home of Cricket, with more than 37,000 spectators attending across three and a half days, a record attendance for a women’s Test match.
Among the notable guests at Lord’s was Indian legend Sachin Tendulkar.
The result spoiled what England had hoped would be a fitting farewell for Tammy Beaumont and Heather Knight, who retired from international cricket after the match.
India’s Kranti Gaud created history by claiming five wickets for 37 runs, becoming the first woman to earn a place on the Lord’s Honours Board. Remarkably, it came in only her second Test. India were once renowned almost exclusively for their spin attack, but their pace bowling is now equally formidable.
England rise to No. 1
There was finally some good news for English cricket as the men climbed to the No. 1 ranking in T20 Internationals after a dominant 4-0 series win over India. England were rarely tested throughout the campaign.
The final game at the Rose Bowl produced a stunning batting display as England piled up 257 for three. Jos Buttler smashed 131 off 64 balls, the second-highest T20I score by an England batter, while Harry Brook contributed an unbeaten 95. Their unbroken 233 run partnership is England’s highest for any wicket in T20Is and the fifth highest stand in the format.
Fleming and CSK part ways
Stephen Fleming’s remarkable association with Chennai Super Kings came to an end last week after 18 seasons with the franchise.
CSK, owned by business tycoon N. Srinivasan, have long been renowned for looking after their players and support staff, a philosophy that dates back to the pre IPL days when many cricketers were employed by India Cements.
Fleming joined CSK as a player in 2008 before taking over as head coach the following season, forming one of cricket’s most successful partnerships with M.S. Dhoni.
Under Fleming, CSK reached the playoffs 12 times, qualified for a record 10 finals and won five IPL titles. Batting coach Mike Hussey and bowling coach Eric Simons have also enjoyed lengthy spells with the franchise, although their futures remain uncertain.
Shapoor Zadran, Afghan pioneer, dies
Shapoor Zadran, one of the pioneers of Afghan cricket, has died in Delhi after a prolonged illness. He was 38.
Zadran was a key member of Afghanistan’s early pace attack and played a vital role in the country’s rise through the international ranks. A role model for a generation of young Afghan cricketers, his funeral was attended by several current and former players, including Rashid Khan.
Beth Mooney back on top
Australia great Beth Mooney has reclaimed the No. 1 spot in the ICC women’s T20I batting rankings following her outstanding performances at the recently concluded Women’s T20 World Cup.
The wicketkeeper-batter, who was named both Player of the Tournament and Player of the Final, moved ahead of teammate Georgia Voll after another superb campaign that culminated in Australia’s unbeaten march to the title with victory over hosts England at Lord’s.
The curious case of Sanju Samson
Sanju Samson could do no wrong in March.
Drafted into India’s World Cup playing XI after a late injury, Samson played fearless cricket against some of the world’s finest bowling attacks and was deservedly named Player of the Tournament as India lifted the title.
He delivered when it mattered most, earning widespread praise. Yet after just a couple of failures, Samson has found himself omitted from India’s squad for the upcoming tour of Zimbabwe. The decision has drawn widespread criticism, with many questioning the selectors’ rationale.
Lanka Premier League set to resume
The Lanka Premier League gets underway later this week, with fans hoping it signals the beginning of a more stable era for the competition.
Sri Lanka Cricket has struggled to build continuity, with frequent changes in franchise ownership preventing the tournament from establishing a strong identity.
Five teams will compete across four venues over three weeks, while the presence of several overseas stars is expected to add glamour and quality to the competition.
