December 25 Morning Brief: Today's Top news and headlines from cricket world

1. Reports: MI paid ₹100 crore to GT to trade Hardik Pandya

There has been a report by the Indian Express coming forward with speculation that Mumbai Indians paid a hefty transfer fee for the all-rounder. No specific figure was mentioned but it has been estimated that INR 100 crore was paid to Gujarat Titans to let go of Pandya. (READ MORE)

2. Temba Bavuma sings India's bowling attack praises ahead of Boxing Day

South Africa captain Temba Bavuma provided insights into India's bowling attack ahead of the first Test of the two-match series commencing from Tuesday, December 26. (READ MORE)

3. KL Rahul very keen on giving wicketkeeping a go: Rahul Dravid

KL Rahul, who has previously featured as the designated wicketkeeper in just one first-class match, is now preparing to take on the same duties in India's two-Test series in South Africa. The first match is scheduled at the SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium in Centurion. (READ MORE)

4. IND vs SA: Gautam Gambhir picks India XI for Centurion Test, includes just one spinner

Ahead of the first Test against South Africa, former India cricketer Gautam Gambhir has unveiled his India playing XI. (READ MORE)

5. 'Would’ve been a terrible choice' - Gautam Gambhir on BCCI not starting IPL in India

Former India cricketer and two-time IPL winner Gautam Gambhir also stated that the BCCI would’ve committed their biggest sin had they not started the IPL and called it the most beneficial development for Indian cricket. (READ MORE)

6. Sanju Samson to lead Kerala in first two Ranji Trophy 2023-24 games 

In a recent development, Sanju Samson has been named as the captain of Kerala for the first two matches of the upcoming Ranji Trophy 2023-24 season. Rohan Kunummal, the dynamic opener, will serve as his deputy. (READ MORE)

7. Mitchell Starc 'surprised' by Pakistan's pace arsenal touring Australia

Australian fast bowler Mitchell Starc expressed surprise at the slower pace of Pakistan's bowlers, noting that everyone was expecting speeds in the 150s [kph]. (READ MORE)

8. Suresh Raina hints at joining Lucknow Super Giants as mentor for IPL 2024

Former India Cricketer Suresh Raina has hinted at joining the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Lucknow Super Giants as a mentor for IPL 2024. Notably, Raina hails from Uttar Pradesh and has been a legendary cricketer for both India and his IPL team Chennai Super Kings. (READ MORE)

9. Danish Kaneria slams PCB for excluding his Test records on Australian soil

Former Pakistan cricketer Danish Kaneria criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for omitting his name from the list of the country's leading wicket-takers in Australia. (READ MORE)

10. Australia captain Alyssa Healy captures India women’s team celebration, Image goes viral

Australian captain Alyssa Healy was spotted capturing moments as the India women’s team celebrated with the winning trophy. (READ MORE)