With a combination of thrilling on-field action, audacious off-field choices, and important events in the history of the gentleman’s game, cricket fans everywhere are in for a treat today. Here is your full collection of cricket news for June 18, 2025, covering everything from Jasprit Bumrah’s strategic leadership choice to Mushfiqur Rahim’s outstanding century.
The Masterclass of Mushfiqur Rahim in Galle Veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim displayed incredible patience and class on day two of the Test match between Bangladesh and Sri Lanka, amassing a thrilling undefeated 141 before lunch. Litton Das (74*) provided him with strong assistance, enabling Bangladesh to reach a dominant 383/4 at the lunch break. After Najmul Hossain Shanto’s 148 on Day 1 put Bangladesh in a commanding lead, the partnership was formed. This innings could be crucial in deciding the fate of the game because of the turn and bounce that the Galle pitch offers.
🏆 South Africa Returns Home as World Test Champions
When the Proteas returned to Johannesburg today following their victory over Australia in the World Test Championship (WTC) Final at Lord’s, they were greeted like heroes. Thousands of people lined up to celebrate what is now regarded as South Africa’s greatest Test victory, and the airport throng exploded in shouts. Prominent Performer: With a calm century in the final, Aiden Markram set the standard, demonstrating composure, skill, and leadership under duress. The National Response: Social media is awash with compliments to this remarkable South African team, from the president to past cricket players, acknowledging their perseverance and trip.
India’s Test Team Sees Big Change: Shubman Gill Named Captain
Significantly, Jasprit Bumrah has notified the BCCI of his decision to decline the Test captaincy, citing workload management and long-term back health as the reasons. Shubman Gill has been named the new Test captain for India’s forthcoming tour of England as a result.
🚨 What This Means: Harshit Rana gets added to India’s team as an extra pace option, and Gill becomes the youngest Test captain since Virat Kohli’s early leadership days. A declaration from BCCI: Jasprit’s dedication to long-term fitness is respected. A senior BCCI official stated, “Shubman Gill gives our Test plans new vitality and clarity.”
India’s top order is under pressure as England waits. Everyone will be watching Shubman Gill as India gets ready for the five-Test series in England that begins later this month, both as an opener and as a leader. Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and KL Rahul will have a tough time at the top because to the swinging Duke ball, seaming wickets, and unfriendly English weather. What Professionals Say: Nick Knight, a former cricket player for England, cautioned that England might attempt to take advantage of Gill’s propensity to push at deliveries early in the innings. He pointed out that “the middle order pressure will mount quickly if they get Gill early.”