In today's sports bulletin (December 13), Ajinkya Rahane's 98 powers Mumbai into the SMAT 2024 final, Josh Hazlewood returns for Australia's third Test against India, and Perth Test viewership hits 70.8 million.

Magnus Carlsen lauds Gukesh's historic chess title, Viswanathan Anand praises his triumph, and Aqib Javed takes over as Pakistan's interim Test coach after Jason Gillespie's resignation.

Ajinkya Rahane's Explosive 98 Guides Mumbai to SMAT 2024 Final

Ajinkya Rahane's blistering 98 off 55 balls powered Mumbai to a six-wicket win over Baroda in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy semifinal. Chasing 158, Mumbai completed the target in just 17.2 overs, with Shreyas Iyer contributing a vital 46. Baroda's 158/7, bolstered by Shashwat Rawat (33) and Shivalik Sharma (36*), fell short against Mumbai's disciplined bowling, led by Suryansh Shedge's 2/11. Mumbai now advances to their second SMAT final.

Josh Hazlewood Returns as Australia Confirm XI for 3rd Test Against India

Australia has recalled pacer Josh Hazlewood for the third Test against India in Brisbane, replacing Scott Boland. Hazlewood rejoins Pat Cummins and Mitchell Starc in a potent pace attack after recovering from a side strain. The series stands at 1-1, with Cummins emphasizing the importance of the upcoming clash. Despite Boland's strong performance in Adelaide, Cummins assured his chances in future matches. The Gabba Test begins Saturday.

Shubman Gill Prepares for Gabba Challenge, Reflects on 2021 Heroics

Shubman Gill, who attended the pre-match press conference of Brisbane Test, said he is ready to face the Gabba test again, drawing inspiration from his stellar 91-run knock in India's historic win in 2021. Reflecting on past performances, Gill highlighted the mental and physical challenges of playing Test cricket in Australia. Despite his struggles with consistency, he remains focused on improving his game and converting starts into big scores, emphasizing the mental toughness required at venues like the Gabba.

Perth Test Breaks Viewership Records, Engages 70.8 Million

The India-Australia rivalry reached new heights during the Perth Test of the Border-Gavaskar Trophy 2024/25, with 70.8 million viewers tuning in on Star Sports. The match recorded an 8.6 billion-minute watch time and a 76% growth in reach compared to 2020. The series, tied 1-1, has become cricket's most intense rivalry, with fans captivated by Star Sports' expert analysis and exclusive coverage. The third Test begins December 14.

Magnus Carlsen Praises Gukesh's Historic Win but Rules Out Title Duel

Magnus Carlsen lauded 18-year-old D. Gukesh for becoming the youngest-ever World Chess Champion after defeating Ding Liren in a gripping final round. Gukesh is only the second Indian after Viswanathan Anand to claim the title. Despite Gukesh expressing a desire to face Carlsen in a championship match, the Norwegian dismissed the possibility, saying, "I am not part of this circus anymore." Carlsen praised Gukesh's strategic play and highlighted India's growing prominence in chess.

Viswanathan Anand Urges D Gukesh to Ignore Criticism, Calls His Title Win "Historic"

Chess legend Viswanathan Anand celebrated D. Gukesh's historic triumph as the youngest-ever World Chess Champion, urging him to dismiss criticism. Gukesh's mentor, Anand, emphasized that criticism is inevitable with success, citing his remarkable rise through the Olympiad, Candidates Tournament, and World Championship. Despite harsh critiques from Vladimir Kramnik and Magnus Carlsen over the match's quality, Anand praised Gukesh's psychological resilience and strategic depth. Reflecting on his mentee's journey, Anand called it a proud moment for Indian chess and a golden era for the nation's players.

Aqib Javed Appointed Pakistan's Interim Test Coach After Jason Gillespie's Resignation

Former Pakistan pacer Aqib Javed has been named the interim Test coach following Jason Gillespie's resignation, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced. Aqib, already serving as the interim white-ball coach, takes charge ahead of the two-match Test series against South Africa starting December 26. Gillespie, who signed a two-year deal with the PCB in April, stepped down amid reports of strained relations with the board. Aqib's dual role highlights a period of transition for Pakistan cricket after Gary Kirsten also resigned as the limited-overs coach in October.