South Africa roared into the series with a commanding 55-run win over Pakistan in the 1st T20I at Rawalpindi, posting 194/9 after openers Reeza Hendricks (60) and Quinton de Kock (23) set a blistering tone, and late-innings assaults from George Linde (36) and Corbin Bosch (4-14) sealing the deal. The hosts, despite a brief flicker of hope via Saim Ayub’s 37 off 28, were bundled out for 139, with their middle order never recovering after losing key wickets early.
Pakistan’s return to T20 action — including Babar Azam’s comeback — ended in disappointment as they capitulated under pressure and against disciplined bowling. The spin-friendly surface didn’t hinder the Proteas’ attack as much as Pakistan’s inability to build partnerships did. South Africa’s freshness, coupled with ruthless execution, puts them one up in the series and signals intent ahead of the next match.
Rain Steals the Spotlight in Canberra: AUS vs IND Opener Washed Out
The highly anticipated 1st T20I between Australia men’s national cricket team and India men’s national cricket team at Manuka Oval, Canberra on 29 October 2025 was set to offer fireworks, but rain intruded and forced an early abandonment with India at a promising 97/1 in 9.4 overs. Despite the washed-out result, the match offered a tantalising glimpse of India’s blistering start—Abhishek Sharma’s 19 off 14 and a fluent 37* from Shubman Gill hinted at the intent. Australia, deprived of a full fight, will have to regroup quickly as their home campaign now lacks the momentum the contest deserved. Meanwhile India’s confidence remains intact as they navigate challenges of conditions and timing in the lead-up to global tournaments. With the series still wide open, both sides will look to the next clash with renewed hunger and sharper focus.
Holder’s Heroics Shine as West Indies Edge Bangladesh in T20 Thriller
The 1st T20I between Bangladesh and West Indies in Sylhet turned into a nail-biting contest, with the visitors holding their nerve to clinch a narrow victory. Batting first, West Indies posted a challenging total of 171/6, thanks to Brandon King’s fluent 45 and Nicholas Pooran’s explosive 38 off 20 balls. Bangladesh’s bowlers, led by Shoriful Islam and Rishad Hossain, did well to apply pressure in the death overs. In reply, Bangladesh began brightly through Litton Das and Towhid Hridoy but stumbled against Jason Holder’s brilliant all-round display, who picked up three wickets in a match-turning spell. Despite Mahmudullah’s late resistance, Bangladesh fell short by 9 runs, giving West Indies a crucial lead in the series. The victory underlined West Indies’ depth and calm under pressure, setting up an exciting contest for the remaining matches.
England Dominate as ODI Series Against New Zealand Kicks Off in Style
The England vs New Zealand ODI series 2025 began with high intensity as England outclassed the hosts in the opening match at Eden Park. Batting first, England’s top order, led by Phil Salt’s attacking 82 and Jos Buttler’s composed half-century, powered them to a formidable total. New Zealand’s chase started promisingly with Devon Conway’s brisk 60, but regular wickets derailed their momentum. Reece Topley and Adil Rashid’s disciplined bowling ensured England maintained control throughout the innings. The convincing win gives England a 1–0 lead and sets the tone for a fiercely contested series between two well-matched sides.
