December 26 Evening Brief: Today's Top news and headlines from cricket world

1. BCCI unlikely to allow Chinese brands for IPL 2024 title sponsorship

The BCCI has indicated its reluctance to associate with Chinese companies or brands. The sponsorship rights come with a hefty reserve price of INR 360 crore per year. (READ MORE)

2. Fargana Hoque and Marizanne Kapp make strides in ICC Women's ODI Player Rankings

Hoque, showcasing her prowess with a brilliant 102-run knock in the second match against South Africa women, has climbed two places to secure a career-best 13th position. (READ MORE)

3. 'It's the bounce' - Faf du Plessis highlights India's major weakness in South Africa

Team India are taking on South Africa in the first Test of the two-match series on Tuesday, December 26 at SuperSport Park, Centurion, and Du Plessis has highlighted visitors' concerns. (READ MORE)

4. Sanjay Bangar opens up on India's Test victory drought in South Africa

Former Indian cricketer Sanjay Bangar came forward to give his take on why India have never won a Test series in South Africa. (READ MORE)

5. 'For almost three months, I’ve been blocked from everywhere' - Shikhar Dhawan shares emotional message on his son's birthday

Star Indian batter, Shikhar Dhawan has been facing a series of challenges, not only on the field but also in his personal life. Currently sidelined from the national team, Dhawan finds solace as the captain of the Punjab Kings in the Indian Premier League. (READ MORE)

6. Why is Ravindra Jadeja not playing 1st Test against South Africa?

India and South Africa are slated to play two Test matches, with the first one being held at the SuperSport Park in Centurion on December 26. Ahead of the clash, the Indian squad chose Ravi Ashwin over Jadeja. (READ MORE)

7. It’s a great shame that Mohammed Shami is out of South Africa series: Allan Donald

Allan Donald came forward to talk about Mohammed Shami's absence from India's squad against South Arica. (READ MORE)

8. Khawaja is very passionate about his beliefs and morals, and I’m very proud of him: Michael Hussey

Michael Hussey stated that he was extremely proud of Usman Khawaja for standing up for his beliefs regarding the ongoing war between Israel and Palestine. (READ MORE)

9. 'I'd be going for a traditional, proper opener' - Michael Hussey calls for specialist opener as David Warner's successor

Hussey has called up for a specialist opener to replace David Warner in Australia's Test squad going further. (READ MORE)

10. South African star players shower praises on Virat Kohli ahead of Centurion Test

Temba Bavuma, Marco Jansen and many others showered praises on India star Virat Kohli ahead of their 1st Test (READ MORE)