Indian cricket witnessed a landmark day — from Smriti Mandhana rewriting history books to major WPL 2026 announcements, and MS Dhoni inaugurating a new international stadium. Here’s a wrap-up of the top updates every cricket fan should know.
Smriti Mandhana Breaks 28-Year-Old ODI Record
India’s star batter Smriti Mandhana has etched her name in cricket history by scoring 973 runs in ODIs in 2025, the most by any player in a calendar year — breaking Belinda Clark’s 28-year-old record of 970 runs set in 1997.
This incredible feat makes Mandhana the highest run-getter in a single calendar year in women’s ODI history, surpassing legends like Laura Wolvaardt, Debbie Hockley, and Amy Satterthwaite.
Her consistent brilliance has powered India through the Women’s World Cup 2025, reaffirming her status as the Queen of Indian Cricket.
WPL 2026 Auction Rules Announced
The Women’s Premier League (WPL) 2026 is set for a blockbuster auction with new retention and salary rules announced:
- Purse: ₹15 Crore per franchise
- Retention Cap: Maximum 5 players
- Indian Players: Maximum 3 capped players
- Overseas Players: Maximum 2
- Uncapped Players: Maximum 2
- If a team retains all 5 players, at least 1 must be uncapped
The updated structure is designed to ensure balanced squads and encourage more young Indian talent ahead of the 2026 season.
Read Also:- Top 10 Famous Female Cricketers of India
Shubman Gill Shares His Ambition
India’s young captain Shubman Gill shared his future goals with PTI, saying:
“I want to play across all formats for India and I want to win ICC trophies for the country.”
His words underline the hunger and determination that have already made him one of India’s brightest cricketing leaders.
Richie Richardson Praises Gill’s Captaincy
West Indies great Richie Richardson praised Gill’s composure and leadership, saying he’s “a confident captain who leads well and has the full support of his team.” Richardson also reminded that transitions are part of cricket and backed Gill to take India forward successfully.
MS Dhoni Inaugurates Madurai International Cricket Stadium
Legendary cricketer MS Dhoni inaugurated the new International Cricket Stadium in Madurai. The ceremony drew huge crowds, as Dhoni’s presence lit up the occasion. The stadium is expected to boost cricket infrastructure and opportunities in Tamil Nadu.
Deccan Gladiators Announce New Title Sponsor
The Deccan Gladiators have entered a new era as they announced BC.Game as their official title sponsor for the Abu Dhabi T10 League 2025. The partnership aims to bring “bigger energy and bold moves,” symbolizing their fearless cricketing approach.
Conclusion
From Smriti Mandhana’s record-breaking year and WPL 2026 reforms to Gill’s leadership vision and Dhoni’s new stadium launch, it’s been a day of pride, ambition, and progress for cricket fans worldwide.
