The year 2025 came to a close, and while teams have already shifted focus to their 2026 assignments, cricket fans will remember both the highs and lows
of the past year. From record-breaking performances to historic wins, 2025 had its share of triumphs, but it also saw some moments that left players and fans heartbroken.
Here are the five heartbreaking cricket moments of 2025
India suffer whitewash at the hands of South Africa
India endured a humbling defeat at home, being whitewashed 0-2 by South Africa in a historic series. India lost the first Test in Kolkata and the second in Guwahati. This marked South Africa’s first Test series win in India since 2000, when the Hansie Cronje-led side achieved a 2-0 series whitewash, becoming the first team to do so in India.
England fail to win Ashes since 2010-11
England were comprehensively beaten in the Ashes series Down Under, with Australia claiming a 3-0 lead in just 11 days of play. England last won an Ashes series in Australia in 2010-11 and have since been unable to regain the trophy on Australian soil. The opening Test in Perth ended within two days, while the day-night second Test in Brisbane saw Australia secure an eight-wicket win. Australia wrapped up the series with a convincing 82-run victory in the third Test at Adelaide.
Chennai Super Kings finish at bottom of IPL for the first time
For the first time in IPL history, Chennai Super Kings, one of the league’s most celebrated franchises, finished at the bottom of the points table in 2025. The team won only four matches throughout the season, with their batting unit struggling consistently. Opponents repeatedly inflicted damage at CSK’s home ground, Chepauk, making it a season to forget for the franchise and its fans.
South Africa's loss in Women’s World Cup final
India Women clinched their first-ever Women’s World Cup title in 2025, defeating South Africa Women by 52 runs in the final. The Proteas suffered heartbreak for the third consecutive ICC tournament final, having lost both the 2023 and 2024 T20 World Cups. Shafali Verma delivered an all-around masterclass, leading India’s charge and leaving South Africa unable to chase the target.
RCB’s victory celebration turns tragic
Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifted the IPL trophy for the first time after a 17-year wait. However, the celebrations turned tragic when a stampede during the victory event claimed 11 lives and injured more than 50 people. The joyous moment for the team and fans was overshadowed by this heartbreaking incident, leaving a permanent scar on one of cricket’s most memorable triumphs.
