The first Test of the 2025-26 Ashes series at Perth Stadium began with a bang, as Australia dominated England on a lively pitch that saw 19 wickets tumble on the opening day. England, having won the toss and elected to bat, were skittled for 172 in the second session, thanks largely to Mitchell Starc's career-best figures of 7-58. The left-arm pacer struck early, dismissing Zak Crawley for a duck in the first over and going on to claim key scalps including Ben Duckett, Joe Root (also for a duck), and captain Ben Stokes. Starc's spell marked his fifth five-wicket haul in Ashes contests, highlighting his enduring impact in the longest format.
England's resistance came briefly through Ollie Pope's 46 and Harry Brook's 52, but the lower order collapsed, with the last five wickets falling for just 12 runs. Debutant Brendan Doggett, the third Indigenous Australian male to play Test cricket, chipped in with two wickets. Australia's reply started chaotically, however, with opener Usman Khawaja unable to take the crease due to extended absences from the field—attributed to necessary breaks—violating time restrictions under cricket laws. This forced Marnus Labuschagne to open, and debutant Jake Weatherald was dismissed for a second-ball duck, adding to the day's frenzy.
The pitch conditions sparked debate, with Indian spinner R Ashwin taking to social media to point out perceived inconsistencies in how surfaces are critiqued. Ashwin highlighted that while subcontinental tracks often face scrutiny for similar wicket hauls, this Perth surface escaped immediate backlash, labeling it as "double standards." As play concluded, Australia stood at a precarious position, but their bowling display sets a strong foundation for the series.
To explore in-depth ball-by-ball breakdowns and player metrics from this encounter, users can turn to the kheloexch app. The kheloexch app download provides quick setup for mobile access, ensuring fans catch every nuance of such gripping days.
South Africa Bolsters T20 Squad with Nortje's Return Ahead of India Tour
In preparation for their white-ball tour of India, South Africa has unveiled a robust T20 squad, featuring the comeback of pace spearhead Anrich Nortje. Absent since the 2024 T20 World Cup final due to fitness issues, Nortje's inclusion adds firepower to a lineup captained by Aiden Markram. The five-match T20 series follows a three-game ODI rubber, starting late November, and Nortje's return compensates for the absence of Kagiso Rabada, who is nursing a rib injury expected to sideline him for four weeks.
The squad blends experience with youth: Quinton de Kock handles wicketkeeping duties, while all-rounders like Marco Jansen and George Linde provide balance. Veterans David Miller and Reeza Hendricks anchor the batting, with emerging talents such as Kwena Maphaka and Donovan Ferreira adding depth. Coach Shukri Conrad praised the group's versatility, noting recent successes against Pakistan as a confidence booster.
This selection signals South Africa's intent to challenge India on their home turf, where conditions demand adaptable bowling variations. For squad lists, player profiles, and series previews, the kheloexch platform delivers comprehensive overviews to help followers anticipate the clashes.
Bizarre Super Over Decides Asia Cup Rising Stars Semi-Final
The Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 semi-final between India A and Bangladesh A at Doha's West End Park Stadium produced one of the most extraordinary finishes in limited-overs history. Bangladesh A advanced to the final after a tied regulation match led to a Super Over where India A failed to score a single run off the bat, and Bangladesh won via a wide on the second delivery.
Bangladesh A posted 194/6, fueled by Habibur Rahman Sohan's 65 and a blistering late surge from Meherob (48 off 18). India A's chase reached 194/6, with teenage opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi's explosive 38 off 15 setting the tone, supported by Priyansh Arya's 44 and captain Jitesh Sharma's 33. A fielding error on the final ball allowed India to force the tie, but the Super Over turned chaotic: India lost two wickets for zero, and Bangladesh's Yasir Ali was out for a duck before a wide from Suyash Sharma sealed the win. Ripon Mondol earned Player of the Match for his crucial overs.
Captains reflected post-match, with Sharma owning the batting choices and Akbar Ali apologizing for his team's lapse. This thriller exemplifies the fine margins in youth competitions, grooming future stars for senior levels.
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Coaching Shuffles and Administrative Changes Across Teams
The cricketing world saw several notable personnel shifts on November 21. Kumar Sangakkara returned as head coach for Rajasthan Royals, bolstered by Vikram Rathour and a refreshed staff ahead of IPL 2026. Kolkata Knight Riders added Shane Watson as assistant coach and Tim Southee as bowling mentor, aiming to strengthen their setup.
In administrative news, Rubaba Dowla took charge of the Bangladesh Cricket Board's Women's Wing amid a committee overhaul. Ajinkya Naik is poised to retain the Mumbai Cricket Association presidency following withdrawals by opponents. Pakistan appointed Sarfaraz Ahmed to lead their Shaheens and U-19 programs, while Somerset Cricket Foundation named Maralyn Smith as managing director for community initiatives. Western Australia's Adam Voges announced his departure as men's head coach after the 2025-26 season.
These moves reflect ongoing efforts to build sustainable structures, influencing team dynamics in domestic and international circuits.
Abu Dhabi check here T10 Action Heats Up with Today's Fixtures
The Abu Dhabi T10 league continues its rapid-fire format with three matches on November 21 at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. Quetta Qavalry, unbeaten so far, face Deccan Gladiators in a top-table clash; predictions favor Qavalry, with Waseem Muhammad tipped for big contributions. Northern Warriors take on struggling Ajman Titans, where Johnson Charles' form could prove decisive. Finally, UAE Bulls meet Royal Champs, with Tom Moores expected to shine in a high-scoring affair.
These short-format games emphasize explosive play, offering glimpses of international stars in action. For match previews and live progress, the kheloexch app keeps users engaged with instant updates.
Looking Ahead: Key Fixtures on the Horizon
The Ashes Test resumes tomorrow, with Australia aiming to build on their bowling dominance. South Africa's India tour looms, alongside ongoing T10 league rounds. Domestic circuits, including women's competitions, add to the mix, ensuring a packed schedule.
To stay ahead with schedules and insights, visit the kheloexch official website. Creating a kheloexch ID personalizes the experience, delivering notifications on favorite series and players.
In recap, November 21, 2025, encapsulated cricket's essence— from record hauls and squad revamps to unforgettable finishes. As narratives evolve, platforms like kheloexch enable deeper immersion into the sport's daily pulse, fostering informed discussions among global followers.