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Weekly Digest (Dec 6-12): From Verstappen’s first F1 title to Carlsen’s World Championship win

From Max Verstappen’s maiden Formula One Championship win to Magnus Carlsen’s World Chess Championship win, here are the top sporting headlines from the week gone by. CRICKET Australia demolished England by nine wickets in the first Ashes Test to go 1-0 up. (REPORT) The England players have been fined 100 per cent of their match fees, and the team has also been docked five World Test Championship…

Australian fast bowling legend Lillee had reached the milestone in 56 Test matches way back in 1981 and it took 36 years for another bowler to eclipse the record

Sports News : India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin became the fastest bowler to reach the milestone of 300 Test wickets on Monday in his 54th match, breaking Dennis Lillees record during India’s win over Sri Lanka in the second Test.

Australian fast bowling legend Lillee had reached the milestone in 56 Test matches way back in 1981 and it took 36 years for another bowler to eclipse the record. Ashwin is also ahead of some of the illustrious names, who had completed the milestone in quick time.

Among them are Muttiah Muralitharan (58 Tests), Richard Hadlee, Malcolm Marshall and Dale Steyn (61 Tests each).

Ashwin is only the fifth Indian bowler to complete a career 300 wickets in Test cricket behind Anil Kumble (619), Kapil Dev (434), Harbhajan Singh (417) and Zaheer Khan (311).

Brief Score : India Wins 2nd Test Against Lanka By An Innings And 239 Runs

The illustrious trio of Bishan Singh Bedi (266), Bhagwat Chandrasekhar (242) and Erapalli Prasanna (189) are way behind Ashwin.

“I really hope I can go on to double these 300 wickets, I have only played 50 Tests. It’s not easy bowling spin, it looks like you’re just ambling up. But there’s a lot behind it. We’ve bowled a lot of overs, me and Jaddu (Ravindra Jadeja) . And the break has helped, I’m a lot more fresher now comparatively,” Ashwin said.

Cricket is often celebrated as the gentleman’s game, but its long history has also produced fierce rivalries, heated arguments, controversial incidents and players who became unpopular with opposition fans. From aggressive sledging to major scandals, certain cricketers have developed reputations that have divided supporters around the world.

In this IceCric ranking of the most hated cricket players in history, the focus is not simply on talent or personal opinion. Instead, these names stand out because their on-field behavior, controversies or involvement in memorable incidents made them particularly polarizing figures.

1. Shane Warne

Few cricketers combined extraordinary talent with controversy quite like Shane Warne. The Australian legend remains one of the greatest spin bowlers ever, but his career also featured several controversies, including a 2003 ban after testing positive for a prohibited substance. His outspoken personality and frequent on-field confrontations added to his reputation as one of cricket’s most divisive stars.

Warne’s battles with opposition players and his willingness to speak his mind made him a fan favorite in Australia while simultaneously making him unpopular with many rival supporters.

2. Andrew Symonds

Andrew Symonds was another hugely talented Australian whose aggressive personality made him a polarizing figure. His career included several disciplinary issues, while the famous Monkeygate controversy involving Harbhajan Singh became one of the most talked-about incidents in India-Australia cricket.

Despite his controversies, Symonds remained one of Australia's most entertaining all-rounders.

Also Read:- Top 10 Run Scorers In The Hundred 2026

3. Shoaib Akhtar

Known as the Rawalpindi Express, Shoaib Akhtar terrified batsmen with his extraordinary pace. However, his career was also marked by disciplinary issues and controversy, including a ball-tampering charge during the 2003 triangular series in Sri Lanka.

His outspoken nature and aggressive approach made him one of cricket’s most intimidating and debated personalities.

4. Virat Kohli

Virat Kohli’s passion and intensity have made him one of the most popular cricketers in the world, but those same qualities have also attracted criticism. His confrontational approach, emotional celebrations and several on-field incidents have occasionally placed him among cricket’s most polarizing players.

For supporters, that aggression represents competitiveness. For critics, it can sometimes cross the line.

5. Steve Smith

Steve Smith’s reputation was significantly affected by the 2018 ball-tampering scandal involving Australia. The incident resulted in lengthy suspensions for Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft and became one of the biggest controversies in modern cricket.

Although Smith later rebuilt his career, the episode remains an important part of his public image.

Why Do Cricket Players Become Hated?

Being unpopular does not necessarily mean a player is a poor cricketer. In many cases, the opposite is true. Elite players attract stronger reactions because they influence matches, dominate opponents and become central figures in major rivalries.

Aggressive personalities, controversial decisions, disciplinary problems and high-profile scandals can all contribute to a player's reputation.

Final Thoughts

The most hated cricket players in history are also among the sport’s most memorable personalities. Shane Warne, Andrew Symonds, Shoaib Akhtar, Virat Kohli and Steve Smith all demonstrate how controversy can become intertwined with sporting greatness.

Australia will enter the second Test against Bangladesh under intense pressure after suffering a historic nine-wicket defeat in Darwin. The result marked Bangladesh’s first-ever Test victory on Australian soil and exposed major concerns in Australia’s batting unit.

With the AUS vs BAN 2nd Test scheduled in Mackay, Australia must quickly find solutions if it wants to level the two-match series. Captain Pat Cummins has admitted that changes remain possible after Bangladesh outplayed Australia across all departments in the opening Test.

1. Bring Matthew Renshaw Into the Playing XI

The most obvious change is already taking shape. Australia has dropped opener Jake Weatherald from its 13-player squad and recalled Matthew Renshaw for the second Test. Weatherald managed only 23 and 0 in Darwin, continuing a difficult start to his Test career.

Renshaw could provide a fresh option at the top of the order. The left-hander scored 499 runs in six Sheffield Shield matches last season at an average of 49.90, giving him a strong domestic record heading into the comeback.

If selected, Renshaw is expected to open alongside Travis Head and will have a major role in giving Australia a more reliable start.

Check Out: AUS vs BAN Cricket Updates

2. Give Marnus Labuschagne a Final Opportunity

Marnus Labuschagne is another player under significant pressure following the first Test. He managed only 32 runs across his two innings, adding to concerns about Australia's top-order consistency.

However, Australia may prefer continuity rather than making multiple drastic changes. Coach Andrew McDonald has indicated that Labuschagne remains in contention but needs to produce substantial runs.

A strong performance in Mackay could therefore be crucial for Labuschagne's position in the Australian Test team.

3. Strengthen the Bowling Strategy

Australia's bowling attack also needs to improve after Bangladesh's batters showed impressive patience in Darwin. Mehidy Hasan Miraz was particularly influential, while Australia's experienced attack struggled to consistently control the game.

Nathan Lyon is likely to remain important, especially if the Mackay conditions offer assistance to spin. Australia could also use its pace bowlers more aggressively in short spells while relying on Cameron Green and Beau Webster to provide additional support.

Conclusion

The AUS vs BAN 2nd Test is now a must-win match for Australia. The recall of Matthew Renshaw gives the batting order a fresh option, while Marnus Labuschagne faces an important opportunity to answer his critics. At the same time, Australia’s bowling unit must find a way to contain Bangladesh’s confident batting lineup.

Rishabh Pant once again found himself at the centre of debate after throwing away his wicket during India’s first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. While the wicketkeeper-batter is renowned for his aggressive approach, former India batsman Mohammad Kaif questioned his shot selection and urged him to show greater awareness of the match situation.

Rishabh Pant Falls After Promising Start

Pant looked comfortable during his innings on Day 2 of the IND vs SL 1st Test, scoring 39 runs from 62 deliveries. His knock included four boundaries and a six, but he failed to convert the start into a substantial score.

The dismissal came at a crucial stage. Sri Lanka had introduced the new ball, and instead of spending some time assessing its movement, Pant charged down the track looking to attack. He failed to get the desired connection and was caught in the deep.

The aggressive stroke was typical of Pant’s batting style, but the timing of the shot became the main issue for critics.

Mohammad Kaif Questions Pant’s Cricketing Sense

Former India batter Mohammad Kaif did not criticize Pant for being aggressive but questioned the decision-making behind the shot. Speaking during the broadcast, Kaif explained that the fresh ball could behave differently and suggested that Pant should have played more cautiously for the first few overs.

Kaif’s central argument was that Pant needed to understand the situation before attempting a high-risk stroke. He pointed out that even a well-set batter would generally respect a new ball for a few deliveries before returning to attacking cricket.

According to Kaif, Pant had already played well against the older ball alongside Devdutt Padikkal. The former India batsman felt that there was little need to immediately take such a significant risk when India were already building a strong first-innings total.

Pant’s Aggressive Style Comes Under Scrutiny

Rishabh Pant’s attacking batting has been one of his biggest strengths in Test cricket. His fearless approach has produced several memorable performances for India, particularly when the team has needed to change the momentum of a match.

However, that same approach can sometimes lead to unnecessary dismissals. In Galle, Pant appeared to have an opportunity to extend his innings and strengthen India’s position, but his aggressive intent ultimately worked against him.

Kaif emphasized that his criticism was not about Pant changing his natural style. Instead, it was about using better judgment depending on the circumstances.

India Build Strong Position Despite Pant’s Dismissal

Despite Pant’s dismissal, India continued to dominate the first Test. Devdutt Padikkal produced an impressive 167, while KL Rahul and Dhruv Jurel also made valuable contributions. India ended Day 2 with a commanding first-innings total and firmly placed the pressure on Sri Lanka.

For Pant, the incident is another reminder that aggressive cricket and smart Test-match batting must work together. His ability to attack remains a major asset, but better situational awareness could make his contributions even more valuable to India.

The Sri Lanka vs India 1st Test at Galle has turned into an intriguing contest, with both teams looking for valuable points in the ICC World Test Championship cycle. India entered the match as the stronger side on paper, but Sri Lanka’s home conditions and quality spin attack make this a challenging assignment. With rain also affecting the game, the final result could depend heavily on how many overs are lost.

Sri Lanka vs India 1st Test Match Prediction

India appear to have the edge because of their stronger batting depth and experienced bowling options. The visitors have already demonstrated their quality in the match, posting 460 runs in their first innings, powered by an outstanding 167 from Devdutt Padikkal. KL Rahul also contributed 82 after recovering from cramps.

Sri Lanka, however, have shown that they can fight back. Their spinners, particularly Prabath Jayasuriya, created problems for India during the latter stages of the innings. Considering the conditions and the possibility of further rain interruptions, a draw cannot be ruled out.

Match Prediction: India to have the advantage, but rain could significantly influence the result.

Also Read: When And Where To Watch India vs Sri Lanka 1st Test In India?

Predicted Playing XI

India Predicted Playing XI

Shubman Gill (C), Yashasvi Jaiswal, KL Rahul, Devdutt Padikkal, Rishabh Pant (WK), Ravindra Jadeja, Dhruv Jurel, Ravichandran Ashwin, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna.

India's combination provides considerable batting depth along with multiple spin-bowling options. Captain Shubman Gill had also indicated that Prasidh Krishna was likely to share the new ball with Mohammed Siraj.

Sri Lanka Predicted Playing XI

Sri Lanka are expected to rely heavily on their experienced batters and spin resources, with Dhananjaya de Silva leading the side. Their bowling attack is particularly important on a Galle surface that traditionally becomes more helpful for spinners as a Test progresses.

Galle Pitch Report

The Galle International Stadium pitch is generally considered favourable to batting during the early stages before spin becomes increasingly influential. Recent assessments suggested that batters could enjoy the surface initially, while pacers may receive some assistance during the opening couple of days.

The ongoing Test has already supported that assessment. India scored heavily before Sri Lanka's spinners mounted a late fightback, with Jayasuriya taking four wickets and debutant Keshara Nuwantha claiming three.

Weather Report

Weather could be one of the biggest factors in the Sri Lanka vs India 1st Test. Forecasts for Galle indicated cloudy conditions and a high possibility of rain throughout the match period.

Rain already caused a lengthy interruption during the Test, making the possibility of a shortened game a major consideration.

Top Fantasy Picks

Devdutt Padikkal is an obvious top pick after his magnificent 167, while KL Rahul remains an important batting option following his 82. For Sri Lanka, Prabath Jayasuriya is a key pick because of his ability to exploit the turning conditions.

Among India's bowling options, Kuldeep Yadav could become increasingly dangerous if the surface deteriorates and offers more assistance to spinners.

Final Verdict

Mitchell Starc created another landmark moment in his remarkable Test career as the Australian fast bowler moved past India legend Kapil Dev on the all-time Test wicket-takers list during the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin. However, Starc’s personal achievement was overshadowed by Australia’s growing problems as Bangladesh took control of the contest.

Mitchell Starc Surpasses Kapil Dev

Starc entered the Australia vs Bangladesh Test needing just one wicket to equal Kapil Dev’s tally of 434 Test wickets. He achieved the milestone after dismissing Shadman Islam and then moved ahead of the former India captain when he removed Bangladesh wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das for a duck.

The achievement underlines Starc’s extraordinary longevity and consistency in Test cricket. The left-arm quick has established himself as one of the most dangerous fast bowlers of his generation, combining express pace, swing and a devastating yorker.

Starc’s latest milestone also places him among the leading wicket-takers in Test history, adding another significant chapter to his international career.

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Bangladesh Put Australia Under Serious Pressure

While Starc was making history, Australia struggled to match Bangladesh’s intensity. The visitors produced an outstanding bowling performance on the opening day, dismissing Australia for just 198 runs. Hasan Mahmud was the standout performer, claiming six wickets for 55 runs.

Steve Smith provided resistance with a determined 71, but Australia’s other batters failed to build substantial partnerships. Bangladesh then responded confidently with the bat, putting the hosts under immediate pressure.

The match highlighted Bangladesh’s ability to adapt to unfamiliar Australian conditions and maintain discipline against a highly experienced home side.

Australia’s Batting Problems Become a Major Concern

Australia’s struggles were not limited to one innings. Their inability to build partnerships allowed Bangladesh to dictate the tempo of the match.

The defeat eventually became historic, with Bangladesh completing a nine-wicket victory, their first Test win against Australia on Australian soil. Cameron Green’s century in the second innings provided Australia with some resistance, but Bangladesh still needed only 57 runs to win.

The result has triggered serious questions about Australia’s batting lineup and the future direction of the Test team.

Starc’s Milestone Amid a Nightmare for Australia

For Mitchell Starc, surpassing Kapil Dev represents an extraordinary individual achievement. Yet the fast bowler will know that personal records matter little when the team is struggling.

Australia now face the challenge of responding in the second Test. Bangladesh’s historic victory has given them enormous confidence, while Australia must find solutions quickly.