Cricket

England's 2025 home cricket season promises an exciting array of fixtures, with both the men's and women's teams hosting major series. The highlight will be the five-Test series against India, which will run concurrently with a five-match T20I series between the women's teams.The season kicks off on May 21 with England Women facing West Indies in the first of three T20Is. The men's team will then take on Zimbabwe in a one-off Test at Trent Bridge from May 22-25. This will be the first Test meeting between the two sides since the 2007 World T20.The white-ball series against West Indies will follow, with three ODIs and three T20Is scheduled. The men's team will then host India for a five-Test series, starting at Headingley on June 20. The women's team will also face India in a five-match T20I series, beginning at Trent Bridge on June 28.The Hundred is likely to occupy much of August, but England Men will conclude their international program with six white-ball games against South Africa before traveling to Ireland for a three-match ODI series.In 2026, Lord's will host its first women's Test when India return for a one-off game. This will be a historic occasion, marking a significant milestone in the growth of women's cricket.ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gould expressed his excitement about the upcoming season, saying, "Staging England Men's and England Women's series alongside each other has been popular with fans and supported the continued growth of the women's game."He added, "India touring is always a big draw and a highlight of any cricket summer. I'm delighted we'll also be welcoming both West Indies teams back again for white-ball series, following this year's men's Test series."

Kwena Maphaka, the standout performer at the Under-19 World Cup, has earned a call-up to South Africa's senior team for their upcoming T20I series against West Indies. The 18-year-old fast bowler, who was named Player of the Tournament, has impressed with his pace and control, taking 21 wickets at an average of 9.71 in the tournament.Maphaka's inclusion is a testament to his rapid rise in the cricketing world. He made his provincial debut for Lions just before the World Cup and was subsequently picked by Mumbai Indians for IPL 2024. His selection for the Proteas is a recognition of his exceptional talent and potential.South Africa's squad for the West Indies series also includes Jason Smith, a middle-order batter who was Dolphins' top-scorer in the CSA T20 Challenge. The squad features a mix of experienced players and emerging talent, with several regulars absent due to the recent T20 World Cup and upcoming CPL.Quinton de Kock, who has not confirmed his international retirement, is the most notable absentee. Heinrich Klaasen, Anrich Nortje, David Miller, and Tabraiz Shamsi are also missing, while Kagiso Rabada, Keshav Maharaj, and Marco Jansen are being rested.Bjorn Fortuin, who was a reserve player at the T20 World Cup, will take on the main spin-bowling duties. Lungi Ngidi will lead the pace attack, supported by Ottneil Baartman, Nandre Burger, and Lizaad Williams. Wiaan Mulder and Patrick Kruger provide seam-bowling allrounder options.Rassie van der Dussen has been recalled after missing out on the T20 World Cup, but there is no room for Matthew Breetzke. Aiden Markram will continue to captain the side."This tour allows us to continue developing our player pool whilst maintaining the core of experienced players," said South Africa's white-ball coach Rob Walter. "It will also expose our emerging talent to quality international opposition."The three matches will be played at the Brian Lara Stadium from August 23-27. South Africa will be looking to improve on their performance in their previous T20I series against West Indies in May, which they lost 0-3.

Tony de Zorzi, the newly appointed Test opener for South Africa, has made a significant impact both on and off the field during the team's tour of the West Indies.Off the field, de Zorzi has showcased his comedic talents by hosting the team's video tour diary. In a recent episode, he engaged in a pop-quiz on Olympic sports, designed a makeshift hurdles course, and conducted a spoof pitch report.On the field, de Zorzi has acquitted himself well in his new role. In the first Test against West Indies, he scored a half-century in the first innings and a 45 in the second, helping South Africa set a challenging target.De Zorzi's approach at the crease has been influenced by the conditions in the Caribbean. He has focused on playing straighter shots, adjusting to the slower pace and harder ball. Despite the differences from his home pitches, de Zorzi has maintained his batting style while making subtle adjustments.While he acknowledges the pressure to score his first Test century, de Zorzi remains philosophical. He believes it will come when it's meant to and is confident in his abilities.Beyond cricket, de Zorzi has embraced the culinary delights of the West Indies. He has particularly enjoyed the plantain, a popular snack in Guyana, where the second Test will be played.De Zorzi's performances and off-field antics have endeared him to fans and teammates alike. He has demonstrated his versatility and adaptability, both as a cricketer and an entertainer.

Marizanne Kapp, the South African all-rounder, has revealed that she had decided to retire from international cricket earlier this year. However, she was persuaded to reconsider by CSA director of cricket Enoch Nkwe and is now grateful that she did not go through with it.Kapp had been feeling the strain of balancing franchise cricket with her commitments to the South African team, which is undergoing a rebuilding phase. The fitness controversy surrounding her wife, Dane van Niekerk, had also taken its toll.However, Nkwe urged Kapp to take her time and consider her decision carefully. They have since worked together to manage her workload, and Kapp is now committed to playing for South Africa for the foreseeable future."I did retire earlier this year - or asked to retire - and luckily I didn't," Kapp told ESPNcricinfo. "I spoke to the director of cricket, and he actually asked me to just hang on, think it through, [and] don't make decisions too quickly, and I'm glad that I didn't go through with it because I feel like I'm at the peak of my career."Kapp's decision to continue playing is a major boost for South Africa, who have lost several big names in recent years, including van Niekerk, Mignon du Preez, Lizelle Lee, and Shabnim Ismail.Kapp's ODI bowling workload will be carefully managed, but she remains confident of playing a full all-round role in T20s for both her franchise sides and her country. She has committed to playing all ODIs which are part of the Women's Championship and count towards World Cup qualification, but will miss some T20Is including November's series against England, which overlaps with the end of the WBBL.Kapp's decision to sign a three-year deal with the Melbourne Stars in the WBBL was influenced by the opportunity to work with coach Jonathan Batty and play alongside Meg Lanning. She is also looking forward to having a chance to settle with one team after a difficult season with the Sydney Thunder last year.Overall, Kapp believes that she is at the peak of her career, and her numbers support this claim. In all T20s this year, her average is 33.06 and her strike rate at 142.97, both considerably up on her career figures. In ODIs since 2023, she is averaging 62.63.Kapp traces her success back to the Test century against England in 2022, but admits that it has been a difficult journey. "It's probably been my toughest couple of years; it's not been easy," she said. "I've always enjoyed my batting… but [I used to] feel like the world was always so focused on my bowling and wouldn't speak about my batting, and that makes you lose confidence."

Tristan Stubbs, a rising star in South African cricket, has been entrusted with the crucial role of Test No. 3 by coach Shukri Conrad. Despite his limited experience, Conrad believes Stubbs possesses the ideal combination of batting prowess and intimidating presence for the position.Conrad, who holds the sole responsibility for selecting both the squad and the playing XI, has decided to give Stubbs an extended opportunity to prove his worth. He sees something special in the young batsman's technique and physical attributes."Technique is crucial because he'll be facing the new ball most of the time," Conrad explained. "And he's quite an imposing character, a big, strong, strapping boy, and I quite like that. I like the fact that at the top of the order, there are quite imposing guys; guys that have got a good aura about them and strong body language."South Africa's top three for the upcoming Test series against West Indies will comprise Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, and Stubbs. All three players stand over 1.8 meters tall and exude a confident presence.Conrad did not elaborate on the specific advantages of having three physically imposing players at the top of the order, but it may have something to do with the diminutive stature of their captain, Temba Bavuma. Bavuma, who stands at 1.62 meters, has not played a Test match since March 2022 due to hamstring injuries.While Bavuma does not require protection, he needs players around him who can bat consistently and provide a solid foundation. Stubbs has been identified as someone who can fulfill that role."His psyche and his technique speak to someone who will do that job really well," Conrad said. "We've got a good one for the future of South African cricket."Stubbs' impressive first-class record supports Conrad's confidence. In 18 matches, he has averaged 50.20, with three centuries and a highest score of 302*. His ability to score quickly and dominate the opposition has caught the attention of selectors.Conrad has committed to giving Stubbs a significant run in the No. 3 spot throughout the remainder of the World Test Championship cycle. South Africa has eight more Tests scheduled in this cycle, providing Stubbs with ample opportunities to prove his worth."I'm going to give him a good run," Conrad said. "I'd be surprised if we didn't back him throughout the rest of the cycle. I'm pretty confident Tristan is going to come good."Stubbs has been instructed to express himself freely and play to his strengths. Conrad believes that by embracing their own identities, players can achieve success."Whatever that identity is, you couple that with the conditions that you're confronting and then marry that with what the skills the opposition bring, but ultimately, you still operate with your own identity in mind," Conrad said.

South Africa's Test team embarks on a crucial period in their World Test Championship (WTC) campaign, traveling to the Caribbean for a series of four two-match series. Despite a disappointing start to their WTC journey, with only four Tests played and a single victory, the Proteas aim to turn their fortunes around.Captain Temba Bavuma, returning from injury, acknowledges the challenges facing the team, including a lack of consistent game time and player management issues. However, he remains optimistic, emphasizing the need to establish a clear philosophy and blueprint for success.The team's bowling attack has been depleted by the absence of Anrich Nortje, Marco Jansen, and Gerald Coetzee, leaving Lungi Ngidi, Nandre Burger, and Dane Paterson with the responsibility of leading the charge. The batting lineup also features several inexperienced players, including Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, and David Bedingham.Bavuma, who will bat at No. 4, recognizes the importance of anchoring the lineup and providing impetus. He believes the upcoming series provides an opportunity for younger players to establish themselves on the international stage.The Proteas will face a West Indies Invitational XI in a four-day warm-up match before the first Test begins on August 7. The series is crucial for South Africa's WTC aspirations, as they aim to secure victories and improve their position on the points table.

South Africa's Test squad for their upcoming tour of the West Indies has been announced, with David Bedingham, Dane Paterson, and Dane Piedt being the only players retained from the makeshift squad that toured New Zealand in February.Bedingham is considered a key figure in South Africa's long-term batting plans, while Paterson, 35, brings experience to the bowling attack in the absence of Anrich Nortje and Marco Jansen. Piedt, 34, provides a second spin option alongside Keshav Maharaj.The rest of the squad was part of South Africa's home series against India earlier this year, with the exception of batter Matthew Breetzke, who earns his first Test call-up. Breetzke is expected to provide batting depth behind a top five likely to include Aiden Markram, Tony de Zorzi, Temba Bavuma, Bedingham, and Tristan Stubbs.Ryan Rickelton returns to the squad after last playing Tests against West Indies in March 2023. He will compete with Kyle Verreynne for the wicketkeeper-batter role at No. 6. Wiaan Mulder is the only seam-bowling allrounder in the squad, with Jansen rested from the tour."The decision to rest Marco Jansen was taken to allow for a conditioning period aimed at ensuring optimal physical and mental well-being given the season-long workloads," said Test coach Shukri Conrad.Kagiso Rabada and Lungi Ngidi will lead the pace attack, with Paterson and left-armer Nandre Burger providing support. South Africa's first-choice Test players have not played since the New Year's Test against India, having missed the New Zealand series and honored SA20 commitments."This tour is extremely important for us as we aim to improve our standing in the ICC World Test Championship," said Conrad. "We have, therefore, selected our strongest possible squad and look forward to strong performances in the Caribbean."Players not involved in the MLC or on the county circuit will attend a four-day training camp in Durban before departing for the West Indies. The first Test takes place in Trinidad from August 7, followed by the second in Guyana a week later.

Laura Wolvaardt, the South African captain, has faced challenges since taking over from Sune Luus. Despite her batting prowess, the team has struggled in T20Is, losing nine of their last 15 matches.Ahead of the T20I series against India, Wolvaardt emphasized that South Africa will field their strongest XI, which is likely to represent the team at the T20 World Cup in October. The series serves as a final dress rehearsal for the global event.Wolvaardt acknowledged that the team is close to finalizing their World Cup XI, with the return of all-rounder Chloe Tryon from injury. However, she remained uncertain about Marizanne Kapp's bowling availability due to a minor back injury.Under Wolvaardt's leadership, South Africa has sought to improve their batting output and consistency with the ball. They aim to score an additional 10-20 runs and be more clinical in their bowling.The conditions in Chennai, which favor spin, provide an opportunity for South Africa to experiment with their bowling strategy. Wolvaardt suggested that they may consider using spinners in the powerplay or at the death, which is uncommon for their team.India, on the other hand, enters the series with momentum after a 5-0 whitewash against Bangladesh. Wolvaardt expects India to rely heavily on spin bowling, which could provide a valuable learning experience for South Africa.

South Africa's hopes of retaining Quinton de Kock for white-ball cricket remain alive, as the national white-ball coach, Rob Walter, expressed optimism that the star batter may not have played his last T20I. De Kock, who retired from Tests in 2021 and ODIs at last year's World Cup, was expected to end his T20I career at the recent World Cup in West Indies and USA. However, Walter believes there may be more to come from the enigmatic player."Quinny's an enigma. He hasn't officially called time. So we have that little glimmer of hope that sits in the background," Walter said. "Quinny has very high standards for himself and has dreamed about a World Cup win for a very long time. Has had a number of knocks along the way, not least this last final, You would have seen that he was very emotional with it. Whether we see him again, time will tell."Walter has not yet discussed the matter with de Kock, but South Africa's next T20Is are not until August, and de Kock is not on the national contract list, meaning he is not obligated to be available for those games. However, his availability for future tournaments remains a possibility."I've had no conversations with him. It wasn't the right time after the final to have that conversation," Walter said. "So let me leave it at saying your guess is as good as mine."Meanwhile, David Miller has confirmed his continued availability for South Africa in T20Is, putting an end to speculation about his retirement. Miller's decision is significant, as it suggests he may also continue playing ODIs, which could be crucial for South Africa's preparations for the 2027 home World Cup.Walter identified the team's improved ability to stay in the game under pressure as the biggest improvement in his time in charge. "We've progressed, no doubt about that. This last World Cup, the team won small moments which in the past, potentially, haven't gone our way. There was huge resilience, we showed a large skill set and we encountered very different conditions from the start in New York to the back end of the competition so it showed great versatility as well. For me, the team is ever-growing. We've made strides, but by no means the finished article."South Africa's director of cricket, Enoch Nkwe, hailed the team's successive T20 World Cup finals appearances as a "massive mindset shift." "Reaching two finals in a short period of time goes to show the buy-in, not only from the two teams, but also from a system point of view. There's been quite a lot of work that's been done and builds towards this moment. We're heading in the right direction."