Gill expects Ashok Sharma to become “valuable” for Gujarat Titans
After losing the match to Punjab Kings, Shubman Gill said he expects the debutant Ashok Sharma to become “very valuable” for Gujarat Titans in the upcoming IPL days. Although Gujarat lost the match by three wickets, Ashok showcased his talent and hit speeds frequently in the 140kph range.
“He’s definitely someone that I think as he keeps playing more matches and keeps getting more experience, he’ll be very valuable for us.” Gill added, “He’s someone who works very hard on his game and he’s a pretty good fielder for us. And I actually met him during the camp a couple of months ago and I was very impressed by the way he was bowling with the new ball as well. Hopefully he’ll get a chance in some of the matches to show some of his skills with the new ball.”
England’s “jam-packed” schedule not allowing involvement in “Euro Nations Cup” proposal
Richard Gould, the ECB’s chief executive, rejected the idea of “Euro Nations Cup” proposed by Cricket Ireland, citing England’s “jam-packed” international schedule. Earlier this month Cricket Ireland’s Brian MacNeice spoke about an Asia Cup-style tournament for European nations and pitched a 2027 launch for the same involving England, Ireland, Scotland, Netherlands, and potentially Italy.
However, as reported by ESPNcricinfo, Richard Gould said on Tuesday Gould said, at the ECB’s domestic season launch at Lord’s, “It’s a very nice idea,. [But] our schedule is absolutely jam-packed, and we’re not looking to add to our schedule.”
CSA announces contract list; Miller dropped
Cricket South Africa announced their contract list for the 2026-27 season where a total of 18 men’s and 15 women’s cricketers were included. A list of 20 players were also recognized as Players of National Interest (Ponis) who would be in next line for selection. David Miller who was on a hybrid contract last season has been omitted from the list. On the other hand, Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis and Karabo Meso have been awarded national deals for the first time.
Patrick Moroney, CSA’s selection convener said in a statement, “Our Road to 2027 and Beyond strategy also informed the final choice of players who possess the level of talent and attitude required in achieving our strong ambitions of winning all major ICC events going forward.”
South Africa contract list
Men: Temba Bavuma, David Bedingham, Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Matthew Breetzke, Dewald Brevis, Tony de Zorzi, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, Kwena Maphaka, Aiden Markram, Wiaan Mulder, Senuran Muthusamy, Lungi Ngidi, Kagiso Rabada, Ryan Rickelton, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne
Hybrid Contract: Simon Harmer
Women: Anneke Bosch, Tazmin Brits, Nadine de Klerk, Annerie Dercksen, Ayanda Hlubi, Sinalo Jafta, Marizanne Kapp, Ayabonga Khaka, Masabata Klaas, Suné Luus, Karabo Meso, Nonkululeko Mlaba, Tumi Sekhukhune, Chloé Tryon, Laura Wolvaardt
