July 29 Cricket Flashpoint: Kuldeep’s Comeback, KKR Coach Axed, and Mandhana Drops from Top – The Full Roundup
It was a day packed with high drama and pivotal turnarounds in the cricketing world. From confusion over who would bowl at The Oval to unexpected India career shake-ups and franchise-level chaos in the IPL, here’s your in-depth, headline-worthy recap of July 29, 2025.
1. Kuldeep Yadav Set for Comeback in Crucial 5th Test
India could be bolstering its spin arsenal as reports indicate that legendary left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav is likely to return for the deciding 5th Test against England at The Oval. He is expected to replace Shardul Thakur, with Akash Deep also poised to come back into the XI after missing the previous Test due to injury. Kuldeep’s inclusion could be a strategic shift to counter England’s deep batting lineup and add much-needed variety to India’s attack .
2. KKR Showdown: Chandrakant Pandit Out as Head Coach
In a major setback for Kolkata Knight Riders, the franchise has mutually parted ways with head coach Chandrakant Pandit following a disappointing IPL 2025 season, where the defending champions slumped to last place. Pandit, appointed in 2022, had previously led KKR to the title in 2024. The move signals KKR’s intent to hit the reset button and rebuild ahead of the next season .
3. Mandhana Drops from ODI Rankings—Nat Sciver-Brunt Reigns
England’s Nat Sciver-Brunt has displaced Smriti Mandhana to become the No. 1 ranked ODI batter, following her stellar run of 160 runs in a 3-match ODI series against India. Mandhana, previously at the top, slips further down in the latest ICC ODI rankings, highlighting the fine margins at the elite level.
4. Australia Sweep WI with a Flair—5‑0 Record Tour Win
Australia capped a dominant white-ball tour with a commanding 5‑0 T20I series clean sweep over West Indies, reinforcing their status as cricket’s white-ball powerhouse. In the final match at Basseterre, Ben Dwarshuis (3/41) and Nathan Ellis (2 wickets) restricted WI to 170. A blitz from Tim David (30 off 12) and Mitchell Owen (37 off 17) sealed the chase with three overs to spare, just short of India’s record for most wins on an overseas tour .
Quick Summary Table
| Headline | Detail |
|---|---|
| Kuldeep Returns | Expected back in Indian XI for White-ball? Actually for 5th Test vs ENG |
| KKR Coach Sacked | Pandit out after worst IPL season |
| Mandhana Slips | Nat Sciver-Brunt becomes top ODI batter |
| Aus White‑Ball Sweep | Australia dominate Windies 5‑0 in T20Is |
Analysis & What Lies Ahead
- India vs England at the Oval: Kuldeep’s return could tilt the balance. His wrist-spin adds the unpredictability missing in previous matches—win or lose, the move shows India’s appetite for bold selections.
- KKR Rebuild in Motion: The franchise will likely begin a high-profile hunt for their next coach—someone to lead a revamped squad with renewed ambition ahead of IPL 2026.
- Mandhana Under Pressure: Slipping from the top spot is a reminder that rankings are volatile. Mandhana will need consistency to reclaim her position amid fierce competition.
- Australian Momentum: A 5–0 sweep abroad reinforces their dominance. This tour will boost confidence ahead of major ICC events later in the calendar.
July 29 proved that cricket is anything but predictable—from selection coups to franchise shakeups and performances that redefine the pecking order. As India prepare for a high-stakes Test decider, KKR plot a revival, and individual stars battle for credentials, one thing is clear: every move counts.
Stay tuned—this sport turns on moments.
