Brilliant Bethell bowls England to victory against Sri Lanka

Brilliant Bethell bowls England to victory against Sri Lanka

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Harry Brook’s 12-ball brutality maintains England’s momentum

Harry Brook’s 12-ball brutality maintains England’s momentum

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Engalnd in rude health for T20 World Cup after Sam Curran hat-trick helps them to victory

Engalnd in rude health for T20 World Cup after Sam Curran hat-trick helps them to victory

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Abhishek Sharma fast becoming a household name among T20I mavericks

Abhishek Sharma turned on the afterburners as he smashed New Zealand all over the park on his way to a 14-ball half century recently. He went on to make an undefeated 68 from 20 balls as India won with ten overs to spare.

Abhishek and Suryakumar Yadav were simply awesome as they broke record after record in chasing down New Zealand’s respectable albeit average score of 153.

In reaching his 50 did Abhishek set a record for the fastest half-century by an Indian batsman? As it turns out, he did not. Here are the five fastest half centuries by an Indian batsman in T20 cricket.

1. Yuvraj Singh

• 12 balls v England in 2007 in Durban

The benchmark for all rapid-fire T20 innings remains Yuvraj Singh’s astonishing assault on England in the inaugural T20 World Cup. Facing Stuart Broad, Yuvraj famously smashed six sixes in an over, racing to his half century in just 12 deliveries.

It was a moment that defined early T20 cricket and announced India as a major force in the new format. Yuvraj’s innings was not just about power, but about audacity.

At the time, such levels of aggression were almost unheard of in international cricket. While the other feats on this list were al achieved in recent times, the fact that Yuvraj’s benchmark knock came in 2007 and still stands, speaks volumes as to how unique his achievement was.

2. Abhishek Sharma

• 14 balls v New Zealand in 2026 in Guwahati

Abhishek’s recent effort against New Zealand now sits just behind Yuvraj on the all-time list. Opening the batting, the world’s number one ranked T20I batsman dismantled the Black Caps attack, with a combination of clean hitting and fearless intent.

His 14 ball fifty came inside the powerplay and effectively ended the contest before it had truly begun.

What made the knock even more impressive was the context: it was a series India were desperate to dominate, after losing the preceding ODI leg, as they looked to establish meaningful momentum ahead of the imminent T20 World Cup.

Also read: 5 exciting under-23 stars poised for breakout T20 World Cup campaigns

3. Hardik Pandya

• 16 balls v South Africa in 2025 in Ahmedabad

Hardik Pandya’s entry on the list was a reminder of why he has been one of India’s most valuable white-ball players of the past decade.

Against South Africa, he walked in with India under pressure at 115 for three in the 13^th over and immediately shifted the momentum with brutal hitting through the leg side and straight down the ground.

His half century in 16 balls was built on raw power, but also on smart targeting of the bowlers.

4. Abhishek Sharma

• 17 balls v England in 2026 in Mumbai

Abhishek appears twice on this list, underlining his rapid rise as one of India’s most destructive T20 openers.

Against England at the Wankhede, a venue known for high-scoring thrillers, he again took advantage of the powerplay and thrilled a packed crowd with a blistering display of strokeplay.

The fact that two of the five fastest half centuries belong to him suggests this is not a one-off phenomenon. As it stands Abhishek boasts the highest career strike-rate of any player in T20I cricket with his 1267 runs from 35 innings coming at a strike rate of 195.22.

5. KL Rahul

• 18 balls v Scotland in 2021 in Dubai

KL Rahul’s inclusion offers a slightly different flavour. Known more for elegance and timing than brute force, Rahul showed against Scotland that he could also operate in overdrive when required.

His 18 ball fifty came during the T20 World Cup and was a vital contribution in a must-win group game for India. His knock of 50 was part of a total of just 89 as India chased down Scotland’s modest score of 85 all out to win the game in just 6.3 overs.

Read next: Revealed – The 9 best T20 World Cup batters of all time

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The 5 biggest omissions from India’s T20 World Cup squad

With the series against South Africa now a thing of the past – India won the five‑game T20I component of the Proteas’ recent tour 3-1 – India’s preparation for the defence of their World Cup T20I title is all but done.

When the new edition of the T20 World Cup gets underway in February, India will be hoping to defend their title on home soil. They have already named their squad for the event, and it looks particularly strong.

There will be a handful of players feeling unlucky to have missed out on selection though; here are five T20 cricket stars who can consider themselves hard done by.

1. Shubman Gill

Without doubt the most high-profile omission, Shubman Gill has been a key figure for India in recent white-ball cricket.

With his calm presence at the top of the order and ability to play both attacking and anchoring roles, Gill has often been the team’s backbone in high-pressure games.

Gill didn’t score huge runs against South Africa, but he wasn’t out of form either. Given his role as vice-captain and his all-format experience his omission seems harsh.

His dropping has been explained as a product of a change in philosophy, with India deciding that having a wicketkeeper at the top of the order is the best way to find balance in the side.

The decision to go for that option has seen both Gill and incumbent T20I gloveman Jitesh Sharma left out while Ishan Kishan gets the nod.

Also read: Cricket’s biggest bromances – 7 duos who have played together the most

2. Jitesh Sharma

A strong contender for the wicketkeeper-batsman slot, Jitesh Sharma has impressed in recent T20I outings. Known for his quick hands behind the stumps and aggressive batting, he was often seen making a difference in tight games.

However, as explained above, the selectors have preferred to go with a keeper who can open the batting and as such Ishan Kishan, who has been in excellent form domestically, has been named as the preferred keeper.

Given his form and versatility, many feel he deserved at least a place in the 15-man squad, who are favourites across the best betting sites in India to win the T2o World Cup.

3. Shahbaz Ahmed

The all-round capabilities of Shahbaz Ahmed have been crucial in India’s T20I setup. His ability to bowl economical off-spin and contribute with the bat in the lower order has made him a dependable option in recent seasons.

While not a first choice, Ahmed was part of the squad for the series against South Africa. Nevertheless, with the squad prioritising other spinning options, Shahbaz missed out on the call-up.

Fans of the left-arm spinner will hope that his continued performances in domestic cricket and the IPL can earn him a spot in future tournaments.

4. Ashok Sharma

Yet to play for India on the international stage, Ashok’s inclusion would have been a surprise, but his form in the domestic Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has been excellent.

He is the tournament’s leading wicket taker with 22 wickets at an average of 15.63.

Sometimes outstanding domestic form is enough to sway the selectors, and while Ashok would not have started ahead of Arshdeep or Jasprit Bumrah, his presence in the squad would certainly have been merited.

At 23 years old he still has plenty of time ahead of him to force his way into the team.

5. Yashasvi Jaiswal

A left-handed opener with a fearless approach, Yashasvi Jaiswal has been a regular in recent white-ball squads. His ability to attack from the start and rotate the strike efficiently makes him an ideal fit for T20 cricket.

Despite these credentials, he was overlooked for the World Cup squad, as the top order was packed with other experienced options.

Jaiswal’s omission highlights the challenge selectors face when balancing youth and experience, and he will be eager to make his mark in future series.

Read next: The 5 most complete, all-format bowlers who are arguably overworked

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The 7 biggest T20 World Cup absentees – what a pity

With the T20 World Cup set to start in early February, the best white ball cricketers from around the world are preparing to assemble in India and Sri Lanka to do duty for their nations.

The tournament will feature four groups of five teams and with each squad comprised of 15 players, that means there will be 300 of the best T20 players from around the world playing in the tournament. But who will not be there

While many big names will be absent following their retirement from international cricket; players like Heinrich Klaasen and Nicholas Pooran, which players who are still available for selection are missing due to loss of form, injury or simply because they are out of favour.

Here’s seven stars who will not be at the T20 World Cup.

1. Shubman Gill (India)

Few omissions are as surprising as that of Shubman Gill. Widely regarded as one of India’s premier batters across all formats, Gill has found himself squeezed out of a T20 setup that is increasingly prioritising specialists.

While his ODI numbers remain exceptional, his strike rate in T20 internationals has fluctuated and selectors appear unconvinced that his measured approach suits the high tempo demanded on India and Sri Lanka surfaces.

India have instead doubled down on aggressive openers and flexible middle order options, leaving Gill watching a major global event from home.

2. Ottneil Baartman (South Africa)

Baartman’s absence is one that may sting South Africa supporters who have watched his steady rise in white ball cricket.

The seam bowler has repeatedly impressed in domestic competitions and was not only the leading wicket taker in the just completed SA20, but he is also the tournament’s all time leading bowler.

The Proteas tend to favour all-out pace and in Kagiso Rabada and Anrich Nortje they have that – Baartman is about variations and accuracy.

He has earned limited international opportunities, but a combination of injuries and intense competition among South Africa’s fast bowling ranks has worked against him.

With the Proteas opting for express pace and all-round versatility, Baartman has slipped just outside the final cut despite remaining firmly on the selectors’ radar.

3. Steve Smith (Australia)

Steve Smith remains one of Australia’s finest batters, but T20 cricket has increasingly become a format where reputation counts for little.

Smith’s ability to anchor an innings is unquestioned, yet Australia have moved towards younger, more explosive options who can clear the ropes from ball one.

Smith’s recent international T20 outings did little to change perceptions, and his omission reflects a strategic decision rather than a dramatic decline. At 35, he remains available but no longer central to Australia’s shortest format plans.

Also read: 5 exciting under-23 stars poised for breakout T20 World Cup campaigns

4. Jonny Bairstow (England)

Jonny Bairstow’s exclusion highlights the ruthless depth of England’s white ball system. Once a cornerstone of England’s aggressive batting philosophy, Bairstow has struggled to rediscover consistent form following injury setbacks.

England have leaned into a new generation of power hitters and multi-dimensional players, leaving Bairstow on the outside looking in. It is a reminder of how quickly the international game moves, even for players with World Cup winning pedigree.

5. Mustafizur Rahman (Bangladesh)

You could say that Mustafizur Rahman makes this list as a place holder for all Bangladesh players.

The world’s number seven ranked T20I bowler is not travelling to India. But then neither are any of his teammates after Bangladesh withdrew from the competition.

It is a big loss to the tournament and even though Bangladesh have been replaced by Scotland the reality is that Bangladesh, the ninth best T20I side in the world leave an enormous hole in the competition.

6. Haris Rauf (Pakistan)

Haris Rauf’s omission will surprise many given his reputation as one of the fastest bowlers in world cricket. However, persistent fitness issues and concerns around workload management have kept him sidelined.

Pakistan have also grappled with his inconsistency in recent tournaments, particularly in the death overs. While Rauf remains a match winner on his day, selectors appear to be prioritising bowlers who can guarantee availability and control throughout the tournament.

Rauf’s omission is particularly surprising given his recent form in the BBL where he ended as the tournament’s leading wicket taker for the season with 20 scalps at an average of 16.75.

7. Mohammad Rizwan (Pakistan)

Perhaps the most debated absence on this list is Mohammad Rizwan. A prolific run scorer and former T20 captain, Rizwan’s conservative strike rate has come under increasing scrutiny (he was retired out in the BBL after making 26 runs from 23 balls).

Pakistan’s think tank has signalled a shift towards a more aggressive top order, even if it comes at the cost of reliability.

Rizwan’s exclusion suggests a philosophical change rather than a judgement on his quality, but it underlines how even proven performers are not immune when team balance and tempo are under the microscope.

That said, Babar Azam has been included in the Pakistan side, and he too has been criticized in recent times for his slower scoring – perhaps it is simply a case of not enough space in the 15 for both Babar and Rizwan.

Read next: Revealed – The 9 best T20 World Cup batters of all time

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Would this composite Ashes XI beat England or Australia?

The Ashes are done and a sense of normality is slowly returning to the world.

In unpacking how it unfolded, let’s take a moment to pick our team of the tournament – which as it turns out has more England players in it than we initially thought it would.

It probably goes to show that while England has a number of excellent players, Australia are much better as a team, which, if you think about it, probably goes a long way to explaining why South Africa are World Test Champions even though they have very few star players.

1. Travis Head (Australia)

Along with Mitchell Starc, Head was the undoubted success story of the Ashes. Promoted up the order in the first Test he strafed the England bowling to all parts as Australia won inside two days.

The Perth Test was crazy and, to be fair, if Head had failed and England had managed a few early wickets the series could have looked decidedly different.

But Head didn’t fail. In fact, he scarcely failed all series as he ended the leading scorer with 629 runs (more than 200 ahead of the next best batter) at an average of 62.90.

2. Zak Crawley (England)

There are not many players who divide opinion like Crawley does. To some he is a perpetual struggler to others he is a gritty hero. While Crawley may seem like an unlikely pick, his presence in this team is perhaps an indication of the lack of opening quality in either side.

Australia struggled to find a settled combination at the top of the order while for England Ben Duckett never really set the world alight.

And so it transpires that with a top score of 85, and a total of 273 runs at a modest average of 27.30, Crawley gets the nod ahead of Duckett and Jake Weatherald.

3. Joe Root (England)

The number one test batsman in the world Root showed his class in a battling England side as he finally rid himself of the monkey that has been on his back for almost a decade – he bagged a Test century in Australia.

And having struck one, he went on to hit a second as he ended the series in second place on the run scorers list with only Travis Head ahead of him.

While number three is not his preferred position, we have to find a way to include both Root and Steve Smith in the side.

Root gets the nod at three ahead of a player like Marnus Labuschagne who will undoubtedly be disappointed to finish the series with an average of only 28.77.

Jacob Bethall shone at three in the final Test, but we aren’t going to give him the nod on the strength of one performance. His time is yet to come, and for England his emergence was a big positive from an otherwise disappointing Australian summer.

4. Steve Smith (Australia)

Vertigo saw him miss a Test, but aside from that Smith was at his awkward best with a highest score of 138 and an average of 57.20.

While he didn’t manage as many runs as Root, his average for the series is 13 higher than Roots which is why we have given him the number four spot. Smith is also the skipper of our side.

Also read: 5 exciting under-23 stars poised for breakout T20 World Cup campaigns

5. Harry Brook (England)

The England man is ranked as the second-best Test cricket batsman in the world and as such he will probably feel that he under delivered in Australia.

Brook showed plenty of positives as he managed to hit 358 runs (the third most of any batter in the series). But a highest score of 84 and an average of 39.77 are below par for a player of his calibre.

That said, he still makes our team ahead of Cameron Green (who started the series there for Australia) and Usman Khwaja (who finished the series there). Brook didn’t just outscore the Australian duo, he also averaged much better than them as well.

6. Alex Carey (Australia)

Another star of the series Carey was impeccable behind the stumps, but he also shone with the bat.

His competitor for the keeper’s gloves and the number six spot was Jamie Smith who may well have experienced a career ending series as he fully embraced the ‘Baz Ball’ philosophy and came up short time after time.

Carey, in contrast finished the series with two 50s and a 100 and an average of 46.14 – the fourth highest scorer and the fourth best average as well.

His ability to stand up to bowlers like Scott Boland and Michael Neser added pressure to the England batting as they looked to play their expansive game but found themselves forced to remain crease bound.

7. Ben Stokes (England)

A fighter to the bitter end, Stokes is another who will be disappointed with how he failed to back up his pre-series talk with on field performance.

That said he still weighed in with some valuable runs and delivered admirably with the ball. He produced a top score for the series of 83 while 15 wickets and a best of five for 23 are a very solid return for a player who was England’s fifth bowler.

8. Mitchell Starc (Australia)

Player of the series and the outstanding performer. Shouldering a heavy load in the absence of Josh Hazelwood and Pat Cummins, Starc seemed to relish the opportunity to bowl more and take on additional responsibility.

He was relentlessly quick, unerringly accurate and none of the England batters ever looked comfortable against him.

He finished the series with 31 wickets (that’s an average of six per Test) at an average of 19.93. The next most prolific bowler was Brydon Carse who managed 22 scalps. Starc was simply immense.

He had a couple of handy knocks with the bat as well just to underscore his superhero status.

9. Josh Tongue (England)

He didn’t play all the games, but he stepped up when called upon, finishing with 18 wickets from three games and a best performance of five for 45.

England arrived in Australia with plenty of noise being made about their pace attack which was said to be the fastest ever collective unit since the dawn of speed measurement.

But speed frequently equates to breakability and along the way they lost Mark Wood, Jofra Archer and Gus Atkinson. Tongue stepped in and stepped up and he earns his spot in this side with an average of 20.11.

10. Nathan Lyon (Australia)

This team needs a spinner and even though he missed a game before getting injured, Nathan Lyon is the only option here.

The veteran spinner played just two games and managed five wickets – which was enough to see him move past Glenn McGrath and into sixth spot on the list of all-time Test wicket takers.

Lyon has proven his quality for Australia on countless occasions and although his opportunities were limited this time round, with an average of 31.40 he still took his wickets at more than 20 runs a scalp better than England’s ‘spinner’ Will Jacks.

11. Scott Boland (Australia)

Mr Consistent, Boland has shown himself to be a wonderful replacement for Hazelwood and Cummins. Not as quick as Starc but accurate and imposing, Boland was the perfect foil for Starc with 20 wickets at an average of 24.95.

Boland himself may be slightly disappointed with his overall performance given that he came into the series with the lowest career bowling average in more than 100 years – but even after the series he still has a career average of 18.58 (which is the 12th best average of all time).

Read next: Revealed – The 9 best T20 World Cup batters of all time

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