Despite Rahmat Shah’s unbeaten century, Bangladesh’s pace attack dominated the third morning, putting the hosts in a commanding position. Mahmud finished with figures of 5 for 55, while Ebadot Hossain claimed four wickets as Bangladesh’s fast bowlers dismantled Afghanistan’s batting lineup. The hat-trick also made Mahmud the first bowler to achieve the feat in a Test match in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The 25-year-old became only the third Bangladesh bowler to take a Test hat-trick, joining Alok Kapali, who achieved the feat in 2003, and Sohag Gazi, who accomplished the milestone in 2013. Mahmud also became the fastest Bangladesh fast bowler to reach 50 Test wickets. Since making his Test debut in 2024, Mahmud has recorded five-wicket hauls in the UAE, Australia, India and Pakistan, underlining his growing reputation as a key member of Bangladesh’s pace attack. Mahmud’s Hat-Trick Triggers Afghanistan Collapse Bangladesh began the third morning by removing Afghanistan vice-captain Ikram Alikhil, who was bowled by Ebadot with a superb delivery that went through the gap between bat and pad. Alikhil departed for 32 off 103 balls. Mahmud then took centre stage, triggering a dramatic collapse with the second new ball. He bowled Ismat Alam for one with a fuller delivery before dismissing Qais Ahmed, who edged a seaming delivery to wicketkeeper Litton Das. The Bangladesh pacer completed his hat-trick by trapping Zia-ur-Rehman leg before wicket with another full delivery that moved away after pitching. Although the on-field umpire initially turned down the appeal, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto opted for a review. The decision was overturned after the technology showed three reds, sparking celebrations in the Bangladesh camp. Mahmud added another wicket soon afterwards, dismissing Yamin Ahmadzai for a duck to complete his five-wicket haul and leave Afghanistan struggling. Rahmat Shah Leads Afghanistan with Unbeaten 105 Amid the collapse, Rahmat Shah stood firm with a fighting unbeaten 105, providing the backbone of Afghanistan’s innings. His century came off a determined effort as wickets continued to fall around him. Rahmat accelerated towards the milestone by striking a six and two fours in Mahmud’s 21st over, moving from 91 to 105. He celebrated reaching three figures with a smile, but Afghanistan suffered another setback in the following over when Mohammad Saleem was caught behind off Ebadot. Rahmat’s resistance ensured Afghanistan reached 240, but the total left them trailing Bangladesh by 106 runs after the first innings. Malik’s Fifty Provides Early Resistance Earlier, on the second day, Malik scored a valuable 62 off 120 deliveries, including five boundaries, to give Afghanistan a steady start. His maiden half-century helped build a platform before Ebadot dismissed him through a catch behind the wicket. Wicketkeeper Litton Das also played a crucial role, completing a stumping to remove Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi for a duck. Rahmat and Alikhil subsequently added 80 runs for the fifth wicket, helping Afghanistan recover from early setbacks. The pair initially scored freely before Bangladesh’s spinners tightened their grip on the contest. Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nayeem Hasan and Taijul Islam maintained disciplined lines and lengths, forcing the Afghan batters to rely mainly on singles and twos. The partnership went through a prolonged period without a boundary before Rahmat broke the drought with two fours off Mehidy, followed by a boundary from Alikhil. However, Bangladesh’s pace attack took control with the second new ball, and Mahmud’s remarkable hat-trick proved decisive. With a first-innings lead of 106 runs, Bangladesh have put themselves in a strong position, while Afghanistan will need a disciplined bowling performance to prevent the visitors from extending their advantage.

New Zealand are exploring the possibility of breaking up their aggressive opening combination by deploying Allen in the middle order, where his powerful hitting could help the team accelerate during the crucial middle overs of a 50-over match. Head coach Rob Walter confirmed the plans after announcing New Zealand’s squad for the five-match ODI series against India, explaining that the team wants to assess Allen’s ability to influence matches in a different batting role. “It’s unlikely that they [Allen and Seifert] will open together. We’ve got sort of a different role in mind for Finn in the middle order,” Walter said. The coach highlighted Allen’s ability to attack spin and target the fifth or sixth bowling options as key reasons behind the proposed change. He also acknowledged that the role would require some adjustments to the batter’s approach. Allen Set for a New Challenge Allen has not batted outside the opening position in List A cricket since 2020 and has not featured in an ODI since September 2023. However, he has previous experience in the middle order, including an impressive 87 off 65 balls from No. 4 for New Zealand A against India A in a tour match at Lincoln in January 2020. According to Walter, the team wants Allen to take advantage of the opportunities that arise between overs 25 and 40, when attacking batting can make a significant difference, particularly on good surfaces. “We actually want to see what it looks like to have someone in the middle order just taking on the game,” Walter said. He added that Allen would need to strike a balance between aggression and responsibility, as the conditions and fielding restrictions in ODI cricket differ from those in T20 internationals. “We want him to express himself. But there obviously has to be a slight shift in it,” Walter explained, expressing hope that Allen could find a balance between his natural attacking instincts and the demands of the 50-over format. Conway and Seifert Likely to Open If Allen moves into the middle order, Devon Conway is expected to open alongside Tim Seifert for the first three ODIs against India. Conway will then leave the ODI squad to prepare for the Test series that follows the white-ball matches. Newly contracted Black Cap Nick Kelly is among the options being considered to open the batting for the final two games. Allen’s improved ability to play spin, developed through his experience in T20 leagues around the world, could make him an attractive option for the middle order. His powerful stroke play, particularly off the back foot, may help New Zealand put pressure on opposition spinners during a crucial phase of the innings. Walter also revealed that the possibility of moving Allen down the order had been discussed during the T20 World Cup earlier this year. Auckland Aces coach Rob Nicol has also spoken with the batter about adapting his power-hitting skills to a different role. According to Walter, Allen has welcomed the challenge and is eager to explore the opportunity. Allen and Seifert Remain in World Cup Plans Despite giving up his New Zealand central contract, Allen remains in contention for a place in the squad for the 2027 ODI World Cup, alongside Seifert. New Zealand selection manager Gavin Larsen previously indicated that the team’s casually contracted players had expressed interest in playing in the tournament. Larsen described Allen as one of the world’s best ball-strikers but stressed that defining the right role for him and Seifert would be important. He also noted that New Zealand have enjoyed considerable success in ODI cricket and must balance opportunities for emerging players with the need to maintain a competitive batting line-up, particularly following Kane Williamson’s departure from the team. The upcoming series against India could therefore provide New Zealand with an important opportunity to test Allen in a new position and determine whether his attacking ability can offer the team an additional advantage in the middle overs.

Western Australia produced a remarkable comeback to secure a thrilling two-wicket victory over Queensland in the Sheffield Shield at the WACA Ground, with captain Aaron Hardie and injured opener Sam Fanning playing decisive roles in a memorable final-day finish. Chasing a target of 201, Western Australia were in deep trouble at 161 for 8 early on the fourth day. With the match hanging in the balance, Fanning, who had been on crutches just a day earlier due to a hamstring injury, bravely made his way to the crease to support Hardie and help his team cross the finish line. Injured Fanning Shows Incredible Determination Fanning, a specialist opener, was forced into an unusual role at No. 10 as Western Australia desperately needed a partnership to complete the chase. Despite his injury, the 25-year-old displayed tremendous courage, managing to run between the wickets with a distinctive crab-like movement. His condition made even taking singles a difficult task, with several attempts nearly resulting in run-outs. However, Fanning remained at the crease and provided crucial support to Hardie as the pressure mounted. Fanning finished unbeaten on 14 off 82 deliveries, while Hardie remained not out on 80 from 128 balls to guide Western Australia to victory. The winning moment came when Fanning struck a shot through the offside and managed to crab-walk his way through for the two runs needed to seal the win. Hardie embraced his injured teammate in a long hug, celebrating a remarkable team effort. The victory also marked a memorable start to coach Beau Casson's tenure in charge of Western Australia in the Sheffield Shield. Hardie Holds His Nerve as Wickets Fall Hardie was the standout performer for Western Australia, earning the Player of the Match award for his unbeaten half-century that anchored the chase. The Western Australian captain held his nerve as wickets fell around him, ensuring his side remained within reach of the target despite mounting pressure. His partnership with Fanning ultimately proved decisive in a contest that swung dramatically between the two teams. Western Australia's pursuit had become increasingly difficult after a disastrous start to the final day's play. Resuming at 134 for 5 and needing another 67 runs, the hosts lost two wickets without adding to their overnight total. Joel Paris fell to Xavier Bartlett after edging a delivery behind, while Jhye Richardson was dismissed for a golden duck on the next ball when an attempted leave resulted in the ball flying off his bat to slip. Kieran Elliott briefly steadied the innings with a 20-run contribution from 27 balls before becoming Bartlett's third victim of the morning. With Western Australia requiring another 40 runs and having only two wickets remaining, the match appeared to be slipping away from the hosts. That was when Fanning's courageous innings became crucial, allowing Hardie to continue his determined effort at the other end. Jhye Richardson's Five-Wicket Haul Turns the Match The dramatic finish followed an outstanding bowling performance from Western Australia paceman Jhye Richardson, who had transformed the match with a devastating spell in Queensland's second innings. Queensland had posted 307 in their first innings, while Western Australia were dismissed for 175 in reply, giving the visitors a significant advantage. However, Richardson ripped through Queensland's batting lineup, claiming five wickets for just 19 runs as the Bulls were bowled out for a mere 68 in their second innings. His sensational spell brought Western Australia back into contention and set up the target of 201. Despite the late collapse in their chase, Hardie's composure and Fanning's extraordinary determination ensured Western Australia completed a remarkable two-wicket victory. The contest will be remembered for both Richardson's match-changing bowling and the courage shown by Fanning, whose willingness to bat through injury helped Western Australia pull off a stunning Sheffield Shield win.

New Zealand have recalled Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert to their ODI squad for the upcoming series against India, while all-rounder Rachin Ravindra is set to return to the 50-over format after recovering from a shoulder injury. White-ball captain Mitchell Santner will lead the New Zealand side in the five-match ODI series. Ravindra, however, will miss the T20I series against India as he continues his recovery from a shoulder injury sustained during a promotional shoot last month. The New Zealand selectors have announced separate squads for the first three ODIs and the final two matches due to the team's upcoming Test commitments. Several players will travel to Wellington, the venue for the first Test, after the third ODI to prepare for the Test series. As a result, seven additional players will join the squad for the final two ODIs, bringing fresh options into the team for the latter part of the series. Allen, Ferguson and Seifert Return to ODI Setup Finn Allen, Lockie Ferguson and Tim Seifert have earned recalls to New Zealand's ODI squad after extended absences from the format. Allen last featured in an ODI shortly before the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup, while Ferguson's most recent appearance came during the tournament. Their inclusion strengthens New Zealand's options across the batting, wicketkeeping and bowling departments as they prepare to face India. The squad otherwise retains much of the core group that defeated India 2-1 in an ODI series on Indian soil in January. Santner will once again lead the side, with experienced players such as Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell and Glenn Phillips featuring in the setup. Rachin Ravindra Set for ODI Comeback Ravindra's return is a significant boost for New Zealand ahead of the ODI series. The all-rounder will be available for the 50-over matches but has been ruled out of the T20I series because of his shoulder injury. His availability adds depth to New Zealand's batting lineup and provides another spin-bowling option as the team looks to build on its recent success against India. New Zealand's ODI Squads for India Series First three ODIs: Mitchell Santner (captain), Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Devon Conway, Jacob Duffy, Matt Henry, Kyle Jamieson, Tom Latham (wicketkeeper), Daryl Mitchell, Glenn Phillips, Rachin Ravindra, Nathan Smith, Will Young and Blair Tickner. Final two ODIs: Mitchell Santner (captain), Finn Allen, Michael Bracewell, Mark Chapman, Kristian Clarke, Jacob Duffy, Matt Fisher, Lockie Ferguson, Mitch Hay (wicketkeeper), Nick Kelly, Tim Seifert (wicketkeeper), Blair Tickner and Will Young. With a blend of established performers and returning players, New Zealand will look to maintain their competitive edge against India while managing their preparations for the upcoming Test series.

With 501 runs scored in just 38.3 overs in Ranchi, India and West Indies head to Indore for the next T20I, where a batting-friendly surface and small boundaries could produce another high-scoring contest. India and West Indies are preparing for another potentially explosive encounter as the teams move to Indore for the next T20 International following a run-filled contest in Ranchi. With 501 runs scored in just 38.3 overs in the previous match, both bowling attacks will be under pressure to deliver a better performance at one of India's most batting-friendly venues. The Ranchi match witnessed a remarkable display of power-hitting, with 352 runs coming through boundaries. Both teams struggled to contain the opposition's batters, raising concerns about how their bowling units will cope with the conditions in Indore. Indore Pitch Likely to Favour Batters Indore has developed a reputation for producing high-scoring matches, thanks to its true batting surface and relatively small boundaries. Although no T20 cricket has been played at the venue for two years, its recent ODI record suggests that another run-fest could be on the cards. The last three ODIs played in Indore produced totals of 399, 385 and 337. The venue has also witnessed several impressive batting performances over the years, including Virender Sehwag's historic double century in 2011, when India posted 418 runs against the West Indies. However, the venue's record also offers some encouragement to bowlers. Every time a team has successfully crossed the 200-run mark in the four matches where that threshold was breached, the opposition has failed to chase down the target. Only two successful chases have been recorded in eight ODIs at the ground. Another interesting trend in the ongoing series is that all five matches played so far—three ODIs and two T20Is—have been won by teams batting second. With dew potentially becoming a factor during the evening, the toss could play an important role in determining the outcome of the next contest. Kuldeep Yadav Faces Key Battle Against Sherfane Rutherford Kuldeep Yadav and Sherfane Rutherford will be among the players to watch in the upcoming encounter. Kuldeep was India's only bowler to take a wicket outside the powerplay in Ranchi. However, he endured an expensive outing, conceding 53 runs in four overs while dismissing Rutherford. The West Indies batter also managed to hit two sixes off Kuldeep in just 10 balls, underlining the challenge facing India's wrist-spinner. The battle could prove crucial during the middle overs, particularly if West Indies lose Shimron Hetmyer early. Rutherford's ability to attack spin could once again test India's bowling plans. India May Consider Changes to Playing XI India are unlikely to make significant changes to their combination despite their defeat in Ranchi. However, the team management could consider bringing in Nitish Kumar Reddy in place of Shivam Dube to strengthen the batting options. India's decision to rely on only three specialist bowlers could also come under scrutiny, especially after dew made bowling difficult in the previous match. Axar Patel has enjoyed an impressive year, including with the new ball, but the Ranchi contest highlighted the difficulties of relying on a finger-spinner to complete four overs in every game under challenging conditions. India's Probable Playing XI Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wicketkeeper), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Naman Dhir, Nitish Kumar Reddy/Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Mayank Yadav and Arshdeep Singh. West Indies Likely to Retain Winning Combination West Indies could stick with the same playing XI after their victory in Ranchi. The team will look to carry that momentum into the next match, although its bowling attack will need to find ways to restrict India's powerful batting line-up. The Caribbean side has limited additional bowling options available, making consistency from its existing attack particularly important. West Indies' Probable Playing XI Shai Hope (captain and wicketkeeper), Kamil Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford, Romario Shepherd, Roston Chase, Shamar Springer, Akeal Hosein, Shamar Joseph and Gudakesh Motie. Weather Conditions Could Influence the Contest Indore is expected to experience a high temperature of around 34 degrees Celsius and a low of 17 degrees Celsius on Sunday. The conditions could favour dew formation later in the evening, potentially making it difficult for bowlers to grip the ball. The teams will need to consider the weather alongside the pitch conditions when deciding their approach to the match. Key Stats and Records Ahead of the Match High-scoring thriller: The 501 runs scored in the Ranchi T20I rank as the second-highest aggregate in a T20 International, behind the contest between South Africa and West Indies in Centurion three years earlier. West Indies' chasing record: West Indies have recorded three T20I victories against India on Indian soil, all while chasing. These include their win in the 2016 T20 World Cup semi-final and their latest successful chase. Rutherford's impact: Sherfane Rutherford's aggressive batting against Kuldeep Yadav could again be a decisive factor in the middle overs. Indore's batting history: The venue has witnessed T20 centuries from Rohit Sharma, Hashim Amla, Cheteshwar Pujara, Shreyas Iyer and Rilee Rossouw, highlighting its potential for big scores. Bowling challenge: India scored at a rate of 14.06 runs per over outside the four overs bowled by Roston Chase, who conceded just 24 runs. West Indies maintained a scoring rate of 13.62 runs per over, with no Indian bowler managing to dominate their innings. With both teams coming off a high-scoring encounter, the next T20I promises another battle between explosive batting and under-pressure bowling. While Indore's conditions appear favourable for the batters, the venue's record of successful defences suggests that the team winning the toss may still need to make a careful decision about whether to bat or bowl first.

Litton Das returns as captain, while Hasan Mahmud makes a comeback; Nahid Rana misses out as he continues rehabilitation from a side strain. Bangladesh have handed an ODI call-up to uncapped mystery spinner Aliss Al Islam for the upcoming tri-series in the United Arab Emirates, featuring Afghanistan and Zimbabwe. The 29-year-old spinner has played just one T20 International for Bangladesh, representing the country at the Asian Games in Japan earlier this month. Aliss has earned his maiden ODI selection following impressive performances in domestic cricket. Known for his ability to bowl with the new ball, the spinner has claimed 35 wickets in 19 List A matches at an average of 17.05 and an economy rate of 4.05. Litton Das has also returned to the ODI squad and will lead the side after being appointed captain in July, replacing Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Litton has impressed in his recent outings as Bangladesh's T20I captain, earning the opportunity to take charge of the 50-over side. Meanwhile, the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) intends to give Mehidy a break from captaincy to allow him to concentrate on his all-round responsibilities. Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud has also returned to the ODI squad, while Nahid Rana has been left out as he continues his rehabilitation from a side strain. Rana last featured in competitive cricket in July 2026 and has since missed the Test series in Australia, the Asian Games in Japan and the ongoing one-off Test against Afghanistan. With Bangladesh scheduled to tour South Africa for an all-format series next month, the selectors are taking a cautious approach to Rana's recovery to ensure he is fit for the upcoming assignments. Bangladesh will begin their ODI tri-series campaign against Zimbabwe on October 17 in Abu Dhabi. Afghanistan are the third team participating in the competition. Bangladesh ODI Squad for UAE Tri-Series Litton Das (captain), Towhid Hridoy, Tanzid Hasan, Saif Hasan, Soumya Sarkar, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Mosaddek Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz, Nurul Hasan, Rishad Hossain, Tanvir Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Mustafizur Rahman, Hasan Mahmud, Shoriful Islam and Aliss Al Islam. Players included: Litton Das (captain), Hasan Mahmud and Aliss Al Islam. Players excluded: Parvez Hossain Emon and Nahid Rana.

Tasmania battled hard to keep their hopes alive after NSW declared their first innings at 500 for 9 on Saturday, building a commanding lead of 255 runs. In response, Tasmania scored at a cautious rate, finishing the day with their second innings progressing steadily at Cricket Central. Tim Ward remained unbeaten on 49 from 169 deliveries, while Teague Wyllie was 33 not out off 80 balls. The pair added an unbeaten 47-run partnership to guide Tasmania to stumps after the loss of two wickets, keeping their side in contention heading into the final day. Earlier, NSW pacer Sean Abbott delivered a crucial breakthrough by bowling opener Caleb Jewell for 88 with an excellent delivery from around the wicket. Jewell's dismissal left Tasmania at 156 for 2, but Ward and Wyllie ensured there were no further setbacks before the close of play. Jack Edwards Reaches Fourth Sheffield Shield Century NSW resumed their first innings at 441 for 6 after rain interrupted the morning session. Jack Edwards continued his impressive innings, adding six more runs before Marcus Bean had him caught by Jake Doran for 115 off 182 deliveries. His innings included 14 boundaries and marked his fourth century in the Sheffield Shield. Bean enjoyed an outstanding debut at the first-class level, finishing with figures of 5 for 111 to claim a five-wicket haul. Ollie Davies had earlier dominated the NSW innings with an explosive 253, setting the foundation for the home side's imposing total. Tailender Reiley Mark also contributed a quickfire 24 off 22 balls, striking two fours and two sixes. Gabe Bell then claimed two wickets before NSW declared at 500 for 9, establishing a first-innings lead of 255 runs. Tasmania Face a Tough Final-Day Challenge Tasmania's innings suffered an early setback when captain Jordan Silk, who had struggled in the first innings, chopped the ball onto his stumps and was bowled by Edwards for 16. However, the NSW bowling attack found it difficult to make further inroads as the conditions became hotter during the late afternoon. Ward and Wyllie dug in, showing patience and discipline to frustrate the home side's bowlers. With Tasmania still needing another 52 runs to make NSW bat again, the final day's play promises to be crucial. NSW will be searching for early wickets to force a result, while Tasmania will look to continue their determined resistance and avoid defeat. Unless NSW can produce a dramatic batting collapse, a result may not emerge until late on the final day, leaving the contest finely poised.

Zimbabwe will begin a busy UAE tour with an ODI tri-series against Afghanistan and Bangladesh, starting October 17, before facing Afghanistan in three T20 Internationals and two Test matches. Raza will continue to lead the side in one-day cricket in the absence of injured pacer Ngarava. The Zimbabwe squads for both white-ball formats feature two potential international debutants: wicketkeeper-batter Tafadzwa Tsiga and legspinner Vincent Masekesa. The selections reflect the team's willingness to give opportunities to players who have impressed in domestic cricket. Tsiga, 32, has enjoyed a productive year in first-class cricket, scoring three centuries. He has also represented Zimbabwe in Test cricket and will be looking to make his mark in the limited-overs formats. Meanwhile, 29-year-old Masekesa has earned his place after an impressive run in domestic competitions. He finished as the joint-leading wicket-taker for the Mountaineers in the Logan Cup, claiming 25 wickets at an average of 29.92. He also strengthened his credentials with a nine-wicket haul against Bangladesh Emerging Team in Sylhet. Cremer Dropped from ODI Squad Zimbabwe have made changes to their ODI squad, with Graeme Cremer left out after featuring in just one of the three matches against Australia last month. That appearance marked his first ODI in eight and a half years. Innocent Kaia, meanwhile, has not been included in the ODI squad as he continues to recover from a thigh injury sustained during the final match of the Australia series. He is expected to return for Zimbabwe's T20I series against Afghanistan, which begins on October 27. Experienced Core to Lead Zimbabwe Zimbabwe will rely on the experience of Raza, Craig Ervine and Brendan Taylor to provide stability in the batting department. In the bowling attack, Blessing Muzarabani is expected to lead the pace unit, with Brad Evans offering support across most of the white-ball fixtures. Evans will miss the third T20I against Afghanistan, with Kundai Matigimu named as his replacement for that match. Zimbabwe will hope their experienced players can guide the side through a demanding schedule while the potential debutants make the most of their opportunities on the international stage. Zimbabwe ODI Squad Sikandar Raza (captain), Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Ernest Masuku, Newman Nyamhuri, Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza and Wessly Madhevere. Zimbabwe T20I Squad Sikandar Raza (captain), Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brian Bennett, Innocent Kaia, Kundai Matigimu, Newman Nyamhuri, Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza and Wessly Madhevere.

South Australia delivered an emphatic performance against Victoria in the opening match of the Sheffield Shield season, securing an innings-and-40-run victory at Junction Oval. While the defending champions made a strong statement with both bat and ball, Jake Weatherald's injury scare became a major talking point following his return to the competition. Weatherald endured a difficult outing after being struck by a delayed concussion. The opener had collided with the boundary fence while fielding on the opening day, sliding into it and hitting his head. He later scored a six-ball duck before being substituted at the start of the second day after experiencing concussion symptoms. South Australia captain Ben Manenti and coach Ryan Harris confirmed that Weatherald had reported no issues before coming out to bat. Despite the unfortunate incident, Manenti expressed confidence in Weatherald's ability to make a significant contribution this season, highlighting his recent form and determination to return to the Australian Test side. "He was pretty unlucky — he kept sliding and next thing you know, he clipped the fence," Manenti told AAP. "But Weathers has been batting really well, he's been great to have back around the group. We know what a class player he is and also how hungry he is to try to get back to that Test level." Manenti added that strong performances for South Australia could help Weatherald earn another opportunity at the highest level. Manenti and McFadyen Lead South Australia's Batting Charge South Australia established control of the match after Victoria posted 244 in their first innings. The defending champions responded with a commanding total of 508, building a substantial lead and putting their opponents under considerable pressure. Captain Ben Manenti played a crucial role, scoring 128, while debutant Noah McFadyen produced an outstanding performance with 134. Both batters registered their maiden first-class centuries, helping South Australia strengthen their position in the contest. McFadyen also contributed with the ball, claiming the final wicket of the match to complete a memorable debut. Reflecting on his century, Manenti said it was satisfying to convert an opportunity after missing out on previous occasions, while praising McFadyen's impressive innings. South Australia's disciplined bowling then ensured there was no comeback from Victoria. After ending the third day at 175 for 7, the hosts were dismissed for 224 before lunch on the final day, handing South Australia a comprehensive victory. Manenti praised his team's response after acknowledging that their bowling had fallen short of expectations on the opening day. "We judge ourselves pretty harshly and hold ourselves to really high standards," he said. "We felt we missed the mark a little bit with the ball on day one, but then we countered that and did really well in Victoria's second innings." He added that South Australia had been ruthless with their line, length and bowling plans in the second innings. Harry Hoekstra Shines Despite Victoria's Defeat Although Victoria suffered a heavy defeat, debutant Harry Hoekstra emerged as one of the team's brightest prospects. The young player claimed six wickets for 103 runs and also contributed 45 runs with the bat in the first innings. Hoekstra dismissed Weatherald, making the opener's wicket one of the highlights of his debut performance. Victoria captain Peter Handscomb acknowledged the disappointment of the result but praised Hoekstra for making the most of his opportunity in both departments. "Not ideal, but there's a positive in what we found out of Harry Hoekstra — he gets the opportunity and shows what he can do, both with bat and ball," Handscomb said. He also acknowledged South Australia's standing as the benchmark in domestic cricket after winning consecutive Sheffield Shield titles. "SA are back-to-back champions, they're the benchmark at the moment, so to come up against them, first round, is tough," Handscomb said. "But we know how close we are to it, to playing the way we want to play." Fergus O'Neill top-scored for Victoria in the second innings with 62, while Nathan McAndrew and Henry Thornton claimed three wickets each to help South Australia wrap up the contest. Weatherald Remains Determined to Return to Test Cricket Weatherald's difficult start to the Sheffield Shield campaign comes after he was dropped from Australia's Test side two months ago following the team's unexpected defeat against Bangladesh in Darwin. The opener had begun his domestic season positively, scoring 92 in South Australia's one-day victory over Tasmania last month. His latest setback, however, has interrupted his return to red-ball cricket. With South Australia targeting a third consecutive Sheffield Shield title, Weatherald will be keen to recover fully and return to action as soon as it is safe to do so. Manenti's backing underlines the team's confidence in the opener's ability, both as a senior batter and as a player with ambitions of returning to international cricket. If he can regain his rhythm and produce consistent runs, Weatherald could become an important figure in South Australia's title defence and strengthen his case for another opportunity with Australia.

New Zealand have suffered a setback ahead of their home series against India, with fast bowler Will O'Rourke set to miss the entire tour as he continues his rehabilitation from injuries to his left hamstring and calf. The 25-year-old pacer has been advised to take additional time to recover fully and gradually rebuild his bowling workload. New Zealand are prioritising his long-term fitness, with the team scheduled to tour Australia for a four-Test series in December and January. New Zealand head coach Rob Walter expressed disappointment at O'Rourke's absence from the high-profile home series but said the decision was taken in the best interests of the player and the team. "It's obviously disappointing for Will to have to miss such a marquee tour at home against India," Walter said. "He was set to feature in both the ODI and Test series, but following subsequent discussions, we all agreed it was best for him to take some more time to rehabilitate both injuries and safely build up his bowling loads." Walter also stressed the importance of managing the workload of New Zealand's fast bowlers over the coming months, adding that O'Rourke would not return until he was fully fit. "Our pace bowling resources will be critical over the next few months, so we're taking a conservative approach to Will's return to ensure he's fully fit before he takes the field again," he said. Injury Concerns Continue to Disrupt O'Rourke's Career O'Rourke has endured a frustrating period due to recurring injuries. He returned to competitive cricket in April during New Zealand's white-ball tour of Bangladesh after spending seven months on the sidelines with a back stress fracture. The right-arm fast bowler subsequently featured in all three Tests during New Zealand's tour of England in June. However, he suffered a hamstring tear on the final day of the third Test in Nottingham, forcing him out of action once again. His recovery was further delayed in August after he sustained a calf strain during training. As a result, he has not played competitive cricket since the England tour. The New Zealand management is now focused on ensuring that O'Rourke makes a complete recovery rather than rushing him back into international cricket. Walter indicated that the pacer could return for Canterbury in the Plunket Shield in late December, provided his rehabilitation progresses as planned. The ideal scenario would be for O'Rourke to be available for the opening Test against Australia in Perth on December 9. New Zealand Prepare for Lengthy India Tour New Zealand are expected to announce their squad for the India series on Sunday, with O'Rourke's absence likely to require adjustments to their pace-bowling resources. The upcoming tour will feature all three formats, beginning with a five-match T20I series before moving into five ODIs and two Test matches. The T20I series is scheduled to run from October 22 to November 1, followed by the ODI series from November 4 to 15. The two-Test series will begin in Wellington from November 19 to 23, with the second Test scheduled in Christchurch from November 27 to December 1. With a demanding international schedule ahead, New Zealand will be keen to manage their fast bowlers carefully while maintaining a competitive squad across formats. For O'Rourke, the immediate priority remains completing his rehabilitation and regaining full fitness, with a potential return against Australia representing the key target in his recovery plan.