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ICC World Cup 2023: Kagiso Rabada feels South Africa is ready to create history

Despite few injuries in the team, South African pacer Kagiso Rabada is hopeful of doing great things in the ICC WorldCup 2023.

Sep 28, 2023, 7:51 AM3 min read

ICC World Cup 2023: Kagiso Rabada feels South Africa is ready to create history

Kagiso Rabada is confident in his ability to lead a reinvigorated South African attack towards their first ICC Cricket World Cup victory. While the Proteas couldn't progress past the group stage four years ago, they have remained unbeaten in ODIs this year. Despite injuries to fellow fast bowlers Anrich Nortje and Sisanda Magala affecting the team's prospects, Kagiso Rabada remains optimistic.

"One thing we have never lacked as South Africans is belief, so going into the tournament we do believe we can win it" said Rabada before their campaign begins against Sri Lanka in Delhi on October 7.

"We've got the players to do so, so hopefully we can make our first final and win this competition.

"It's going to be hard but it's going to be really enjoyable.

"It's exciting to have the best players in the world playing against each other competing for one prize, and we are up for the challenge

While the team faced struggles in 2019, they have since risen to fourth in the MRF Tyres Men's ODI Team Rankings and gained confidence after a 3-2 series victory over Australia.

"Individuals don't win world cups:" Kagiso Rabada

Rabada, at 28, is one of the eight survivors from the squad that competed in England four years ago and embraces his role as one of the team's senior figures, assisting captain Temba Bavuma in charting the path to success.

"The 2019 World Cup was my first, and I wasn't successful," Kagiso Rabada reflected.

"The lesson I took from that is that team cohesion is the most important factor, because individuals don't win World Cups, teams do.

"The older I have become and the more caps I have, the more I realise that I am a leader in that environment.

"Through knowing my own strengths and reinforcing them, knowing what makes me tick and through lending an ear to other players, I want to help set how we play as a collective."

Kagiso Rabada also brings valuable knowledge of subcontinent conditions, honed through his performance in the Indian Premier League (IPL) over several seasons.

Experience in playing in India can come handy for Rabada and company

The national side has played 11 white-ball matches in India since last year, and Rabada believes this collective experience could give them an edge.

"It does help when you understand the conditions in the various grounds, and having played in India for all these years, it gives you a familiarity on how to go about your tactics," he explained.

The majority of our team has played in India, but for those who haven't played as much, it is important to share experiences.

"In India you have drier conditions and they are batter-friendly wickets, so it's about finding ways to be successful.

"Managing the noise and distractions is really important and I think it's just about focus and not letting the crowd get to you.

"But at the same time, it is exciting to be playing in packed stadiums with tens of thousands of screaming fans - it's an honour."

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ICC increase prize money for WTC 2023-25: Here is how much the teams would get

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has raised the prize money for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25, announcing a massive $3.6 million prize for the winners of the upcoming final between Australia and South Africa

May 15, 2025, 9:50 AM3 min read

ICC increase prize money for WTC 2023-25: Here is how much the teams would get | sportzpoint.com

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has raised the prize money for the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 2023-25, announcing a massive $3.6 million prize for the winners of the upcoming final between Australia and South Africa, set to take place at Lord’s from June 11-15.

This record-breaking purse, more than double the $1.6 million awarded to previous champions New Zealand (2021) and Australia (2023), underlines the ICC’s commitment to elevating Test cricket’s prestige and importance.

The losing finalists will also walk away with a hefty $2.1 million, surpassing the prize money awarded to past winners. This significant financial boost reflects the ICC’s push to sustain the momentum of the nine-team competition, now in its third thrilling cycle.

Read Also | Highest wicket-takers in WTC 2023-25

WTC Final Details

The stage is set for a clash of titans at the iconic Lord’s Cricket Ground, hosting its first-ever WTC Final. South Africa, buoyed by commanding 2-0 home series wins over Sri Lanka and Pakistan, clinched their spot with 69.44 percentage points.

Defending champions Australia, finishing with 67.54 points, are eager to retain the Test Mace in what promises to be a fiercely contested battle.

Read Also | Fav four in Test cricket: Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith stats in Tests

ICC Chair Jay Shah expressed his excitement, stating, “The third cycle of the World Test Championship has been captivating, with the finalists decided only in the closing stages. Australia and South Africa will deliver a fitting celebration of Test cricket at Lord’s, and I’m confident fans worldwide will witness top-class action.”

What did the captains say?

Australian captain Pat Cummins, reflecting on the honour of defending their title, said, “Playing at Lord’s for the World Test Championship is a proud moment for us. South Africa will bring a tough challenge, and we’re ready to give it our all at the home of cricket.”

South Africa’s Temba Bavuma echoed the sentiment, emphasising the significance of the occasion. “Reaching the WTC Final is a huge opportunity to win an ICC title. Lord’s is the perfect stage, and we’re determined to put our best foot forward against Australia.”

Prize Money Breakdown

The increased prize money extends beyond the finalists, with the full breakdown as follows:

  • Winner: $3,600,000

  • Runners-up: $2,160,000

  • Third (India): $1,440,000

  • Fourth (New Zealand): $1,200,000

  • Fifth (England): $960,000

  • Sixth (Sri Lanka): $840,000

  • Seventh (Bangladesh): $720,000

  • Eighth (West Indies): $600,000

  • Ninth (Pakistan): $480,000

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WTC Final: Australia and South Africa announce their squads

The WTC Final match will be played at the historic Lord's Cricket Ground on June 11.

May 13, 2025, 12:05 PM4 min read

WTC Final: Australia and South Africa announce their squad

World Test Championship (WTC) finalist South Africa and Australia have announced their squad. The WTC Final match will be played at the historic Lord's Cricket Ground on June 11.

Also Read: Fav four in Test cricket: Kohli vs Root vs Williamson vs Smith stats in Tests

Ngidi back in Proteas squad

WTC Final: Australia and South Africa announce their squad

The Proteas have been strengthened by the return of Lungi Ngidi, who was out of action for most of the domestic summer season due to a back injury. Ngidi was part of Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) in IPL 2025.

South Africa has made only two changes in its team from the last Test series against Pakistan. Ngidi has been included in place of young player Kwena Maphaka, while top order batsman Matthew Breetzke has not been included.

Bavuma to lead the team

WTC Final: Australia and South Africa announce their squad

Temba Bavuma will lead the team. He helped South Africa finish first in the WTC standings. The team won many games under his captaincy. He has done well as a leader.

The top-order batters include Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, and Ryan Rickelton. These players have scored runs in recent matches. They can handle tough bowling attacks.

David Bedingham and Tristan Stubbs are part of the middle-order. They are in good form. Bavuma also bats in the middle order. Kyle Verreynne will keep wickets. He is quick and can score runs fast.

Strong bowling attack

South Africa’s bowling attack is strong. Kagiso Rabada is their top pacer. He is back in the team. The fast bowler had a one-month break due to a ban. He completed a rehab program. Now, he can play again.

Lungi Ngidi joins Rabada. Marco Jansen, Wiaan Mulder, Corbin Bosch, and Dane Paterson complete the pace unit. All can bowl fast and take wickets.

Keshav Maharaj leads the spin group. Senuran Muthusamy is the second spinner. They both have good control and experience.

Cameron Green return to Australian squad

WTC Final: Australia and South Africa announce their squad

Earlier, defending champion Australia also announced its squad today for WTC Final. The Kangaroo team has almost the same members who played against India and Sri Lanka earlier this year. This same Australian team will play a three-match Test series in the West Indies starting June 25.

Cameron Green's return to the Test squad after back surgery also has been confirmed, with spinner Matt Kuhnemann also included. Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood missed Australia's most recent Test series in Sri Lanka due to injury, while Green is in line to make his first Test appearance in more than 12 months after recovering from back surgery.

Australia's squad full of experience

WTC Final: Australia and South Africa announce their squad

Australia's squad is full of experience and at full strength for the Proteas' clash with Cummins joined by fellow quicks Mitchell Starc, Scott Boland and Hazlewood in a 15-player squad that also has two spinning options in Nathan Lyon and Matt Kuhnemann.

Meanwhile, teenager Sam Konstas is also included, with Green and fellow all-rounder Beau Webster battling it out with key batters Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith, Travis Head and Josh Inglis for a spot in the XI.

On the other hand, Inglis can provide support for first-choice keeper Alex Carey, while Brendan Doggett will travel with the squad as a reserve.

Also Read: IPL 2025 to resume from 17th May: Here is the revised schedule

WTC Final | Squads

Australia

Pat Cummins (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Cameron Green, Josh Hazlewood, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Sam Konstas, Matt Kuhnemann, Marnus Labuschagne, Nathan Lyon, Steve Smith, Mitchell Starc, Beau Webster. 

Travelling Reserve: Brendan Dogget

South Africa

Temba Bavuma (c), Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, David Bedingham, Kyle Verreynne (wicketkeeper), Wiaan Mulder, Marco Jansen, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Corbin Bosch, Dane Paterson, Keshav Maharaj, Senuran Muthusamy.

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Fastest 50 IPL Wickets Among Pacers (by Matches)

Josh Hazlewood reached 50 IPL wickets in just 36 matches, the joint-fourth 50 IPL wickets among pacers. In this article, we will be discussing about the fastest 50 IPL wickets among pacers.

Apr 25, 2025, 12:09 PM3 min read

Fastest 50 IPL Wickets Among Pacers (by Matches)

In the Indian Premier League, there is not only a rain of runs but also a flurry of wickets. In the world's most popular league, while the batsmen have scored mountains of runs, the bowlers have also taken heaps of wickets. 

In Match 42 of IPL 2025, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their first home win, defeating the Rajasthan Royals by 11 runs. Josh Hazlewood starred with 4/33 in four overs. With this, he also reached 50 IPL wickets in just 36 matches, the joint-fourth 50 IPL wickets among pacers.

Also Read: IPL Facts: Most Fifty Plus Scores in T20s

In this article, we will be discussing about the fastest 50 IPL wickets among pacers.

Fastest 50 IPL Wickets Among Pacers

5. Mitchell McClenaghan | 36

Fastest 50 IPL Wickets Among Pacers (by Matches)

Mitchell McClenaghan, the former Kiwi bowler is the joint-fourth fastest pacer to 50 IPL wickets, having taken just 36 matches. He achieved the feat during the 2016 season while playing for MI against the Delhi Capitals, returning with figures of 2/37.

Overall, he claimed 71 wickets in 56 matches at an average of 25.39, including a four-wicket haul with best figures of 4/21.

4. Josh Hazlewood | 36*

Fastest 50 IPL Wickets Among Pacers (by Matches)

As mentioned, the RCB pacer is now the joint-fourth fastest to 50 IPL wickets, reaching the mark in just 36 matches. His milestone wicket came against RR, when he dismissed Shimron Hetmyer for 11, his third wicket of the match.

With this performance, Hazlewood now has 16 wickets in nine matches this season and 51 wickets overall in his 36-match IPL career.

3. Khaleel Ahmed | 35

Fastest 50 IPL Wickets Among Pacers (by Matches)

Khaleel Ahmed ranks third on this list, reaching 50 IPL wickets in 35 matches. He achieved the milestone in 2023, dismissing Nicholas Pooran while playing for Dehli Capitals against Lucknow Super Giants.

Notably, he is the fastest Indian bowler to do so, having broken Amit Mishra's 37-match record. Playing for CSK this season, Ahmed has raced to 85 wickets in 65 matches.

2. Lasith Malinga | 33

Fastest 50 IPL Wickets Among Pacers (by Matches)

Former Sri Lankan veteran bowler Lasith Malinga is in third place in terms of taking fastest 50 IPL Wickets among pacers, having bagged 50 IPL wickets in 33 matches. Malinga achieved the feat with a stunning 5/13 against Delhi Capitals in the fourth match of IPL 2011.

A one-franchise man, Malinga played his entire IPL career with Mumbai Indians, finishing with 170 wickets in 122 matches at an average of 19.79, including six four-wicket hauls and one five-wicket haul.

Also Read: Most Dot Balls Bowled in IPL History: No one is catching Bhuvi

1. Kagiso Rabada | 27

Fastest 50 IPL Wickets Among Pacers (by Matches)

Kagiso Rabada is the fastest pacer to reach 50 IPL wickets, doing so in just 27 matches, surpassing Lasith Malinga's longstanding record of 33 matches. He achieved this milestone in 2019 against Chennai Super Kings, dismissing Faf du Plessis in the 15th over while playing for Delhi Capitals.

Debuting in 2017, Rabada now owns 119 wickets in 82 IPL matches, including six four-wicket hauls.

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BCCI announce schedule for home series against West Indies and South Africa: Kolkata gets one test

BCCI announced the Indian men's cricket team's schedule for the upcoming home series against West Indies and South Africa. India will play a two-match test series against the West Indies and an all-format series against South Africa.

Apr 2, 2025, 3:03 PM2 min read

BCCI announce schedule for home series against West Indies and South Africa: Kolkata gets one test | sportzpoint.com

The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the Indian men's cricket team's schedule for the upcoming home series against West Indies and South Africa. The men in blue will play a two-match test series against the West Indies to start the 2025-26 season, followed by an all-format series against South Africa. 

The West Indies series will start with the test match, starting from 2nd October 2025 in Ahmedabad. Meanwhile, the second and final test match of the series will be played at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, starting from 10th October. 

After the West Indies series, the focus will be shifted towards the all-format home series against the strong Proteas side. The first test match of the series will be played in New Delhi from 14th November. Guwahati will host its first-ever test match, as the test series is set to end there from 22nd November. 

The three-match ODI series will be played in Ranchi, Raipur, and Vizag. On the other hand, the five-match T20I series will be played in Cuttack, New Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Lucknow and Ahmedabad. 

Here is the full schedule for the home series against West Indies and South Africa

West Indies Tour of India 2025

No. Match Date (From) Date (To) Time Venue
1 1st Test Thu, 02-Oct-25 Mon, 06-Oct-25 9:30 AM Ahmedabad
2 2nd Test Fri, 10-Oct-25 Tue, 14-Oct-25 9:30 AM Kolkata

South Africa Tour of India 2025

No. Match Date (From) Date (To) Time Venue
1 1st Test Fri, 14-Nov-25 Tue, 18-Nov-25 9:30 AM New Delhi
2 2nd Test Sat, 22-Nov-25 Wed, 26-Nov-25 9:30 AM Guwahati
3 1st ODI Sun, 30-Nov-25 - 1:30 PM Ranchi
4 2nd ODI Wed, 03-Dec-25 - 1:30 PM Raipur
5 3rd ODI Sat, 06-Dec-25 - 1:30 PM Vizag
6 1st T20I Tue, 09-Dec-25 - 7:00 PM Cuttack
7 2nd T20I Thu, 11-Dec-25 - 7:00 PM New Chandigarh
8 3rd T20I Sun, 14-Dec-25 - 7:00 PM Dharamsala
9 4th T20I Wed, 17-Dec-25 - 7:00 PM Lucknow
10 5th T20I Fri, 19-Dec-25 - 7:00 PM Ahmedabad

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Champions Trophy 2025: How can Afghanistan qualify for the semi-final? Group B Scenarios

Here is the current scenario in Group B and the calculation needed for Afghanistan to qualify for the semi-finals of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

Feb 28, 2025, 4:34 AM3 min read

Champions Trophy 2025: How can Afghanistan qualify for the semi-final? Group B Scenarios | sportzpoint.com
Afghanistan knocked out England out of the Champions Trophy

After their sensational victory over England, Afghanistan now have a shot at the semi-final berth in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. This now means we have a three-way battle for the semi-final spot between Afghanistan, Australia and South Africa. 

Group B Points table | ICC Champions Trophy

Team M W L PT NRR
SA 2 1 0 3 2.140
AUS 2 1 0 3 0.475
AFG 2 1 1 2 -0.990
ENG 2 0 2 0 -0.305

Here is how the scenarios are currently in Group B. 

Ryan Rickelton celebrates his maiden ODI ton, Afghanistan vs South Africa, Champions Trophy, Karachi, February 21, 2025 | sportzpoint.com
Ryan RIckleton's maiden ODI ton helped SA beat Afghanistan. Image | Associated Press

We can check from the points table that South Africa are leading the Group B now with 3 points and a positive net run rate of 2.140. Meantime, Australia are following them with the same amount of points but a lesser NRR of 0.475. 

On the other hand, Afghanistan are third with 2 points and a negative NRR of -0.990 with England getting knocked out of the tournament already.

Read Also | England vs Australia ICC Champions Trophy 2025: Inglis and Aussie batters chased down biggest target of ICC ODI events

Matches left in Group B

  • Australia vs Afghanistan - 28 February 2025 - Lahore
  • England vs South Africa - 1st March 2025 - Karachi

How can Afghanistan qualify for semis of Champions Trophy 2025?

As per the current situation, here are the below things that can happen. 

If Australia and South Africa win

If both Australia and South Africa win against their opponents, they will qualify with five points each. That means, for Afghanistan to stay in the competition, they will have to beat Australia by any means. 

If Australia and England win

If Australia win against Afghanistan and England win against South Africa, Aussies will reach the semis with five points while South Africa will qualify as the second best from Group B. 

If Afghanistan and South Africa win

If the Afghans beat Australia, and South Africa also beat England, then South Affrica will qualify as the group topper with five points and Afghanistan with four points will also qualify as the second best. 

If Afghanistan and England win

This is the most ideal situation for Afghanistan. If they can beat Australia and the England beat South Africa, Afghanistan will qualify as the group topper and the second position between Australia and South Africa will be decided on NRR. 

South Africa are ahead in NRR at the points and this means for them to not qualify England will have to win with a big margin. 

If Afghanistan vs Australia is washed out

That is where everything gets complicated. If Afghanistan vs Australia gets washed out due to rain, Australia with four points will qualify.

Then if South Africa gets beaten by England, both South Africa and Afghanistan will finish with three points. But, with the NRR advantage the Porteas have, they will likely to qualify from Group B. However, if South Africa win, they will qualify as the group topper with five points. 

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