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The Economic Times

Sports / The Economic Times

U19 World Cup: Aaron's classy hundred carries India to final

India secured a spot in the ICC U19 World Cup final. They defeated Afghanistan by seven wickets. Aaron George scored a century. Vaibhav Suryavanshi and Ayush Mhatre also contributed with explosive fifties. India will now face England in the summit clash. This marks India's tenth final appearance in the tournament.

4 Feb 2026 8:45 pm
Nine world cups later, the host still waits: The strange T20 World Cup curse

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup has become a global spectacle since 2007. Six nations have won the title. India recently secured their second T20 World Cup in 2024. The tournament has a history of dramatic finishes and unexpected outcomes. Hosts have never won the trophy. India and Sri Lanka will co-host the next edition.

4 Feb 2026 6:47 pm
Pakistan Cricket Board staring at massive financial losses over T20 World Cup match refusal

Pakistan Cricket Board faces significant financial jeopardy if the ICC penalizes them for refusing to play India in the T20 World Cup. This refusal could impact Pakistan's substantial ICC financial cycle earnings, potentially leading to severe financial challenges for the board.

4 Feb 2026 6:14 pm
IND vs SA warm-up match: Date, time, toss details, predicted XIs and full squads for T20 World Cup 2026 clash

India and South Africa will play a warm-up match for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. The game is scheduled for February 4 at Navi Mumbai. Both teams are in good form. India recently won a series against New Zealand. South Africa is confident after their SA20 season. This match will prepare them for the tournament.

4 Feb 2026 5:42 pm
Fire 'n' Ice: Gambhir's authority and Surya's freedom form a heady cocktail for India

Gautam Gambhir and Suryakumar Yadav form a potent coaching and captaincy duo. Their successful partnership has yielded significant wins. Gambhir plans, and Yadav executes. Both share a nationalist spirit. Their journey is compared to historical pairings. The T20 World Cup 2026 will be a key test for their legacy. Their impact on T20 cricket is significant.

4 Feb 2026 5:18 pm
IRE vs PAK Live Streaming: When and where to watch T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up match, time and venue

Ireland vs Pakistan Playing 11: Pakistan faces Ireland in a T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up game. Pakistan enters the tournament after a series win. Ireland aims to recover from a recent series loss. The match takes place in Colombo. Both teams will look to fine-tune their strategies before the main event. Fans can follow the action live.

4 Feb 2026 4:36 pm
Viral Virat Kohli look-alike plays batter's younger version in campaign launched by Team India's lead sponsor

Virat Kohli look-alike Garvit features in Apollo Tyres' new campaign 'Har Safar Mein Dum Hai', alongside cricketing legends and current stars. The film showcases the journey of Indian cricketers, highlighting their dedication and resilience. This campaign coincides with India's preparation for the ICC T20 World Cup.

4 Feb 2026 1:55 pm
'Age is not a criteria': Dhoni on Rohit-Virat featuring in 2027 ODI World Cup

MS Dhoni believes age is not a barrier for Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play the 2027 ODI World Cup, emphasizing performance and fitness as the key criteria. He stated that experienced players should decide their own future, as long as they are performing and fit to represent the country.

4 Feb 2026 12:53 pm
ICC T20 World Cup full squads: 20 teams across four groups unveil their crew

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup squads are now finalized. Twenty teams are set to compete. India, the defending champions, will be led by captain Suryakumar Yadav. The tournament features a blend of experienced players and new talent. Exciting matches are anticipated across four groups. Cricket fans can look forward to a thrilling global event.

4 Feb 2026 12:04 pm
India vs Afghanistan Playing 11: Who's playing today's U19 World Cup Semi-Final? Pitch and weather report inside

India vs Afghanistan (IND vs AFG) U19 Playing 11 Today Match: Check out the predicted playing XI, full squad players list, and match preview for the ICC U19 World Cup 2026 semi-final in Harare.

4 Feb 2026 12:02 pm
T20 World Cup: Jacob Bethell stars as England warms up in style for WC by routing Sri Lanka 3-0 in series

England concluded their T20 World Cup preparations with a dominant 3-0 series victory over Sri Lanka. Young spinner Jacob Bethell emerged as the unlikely hero, taking four crucial wickets in eight balls to seal the final match. Sam Curran's career-best 58 guided England to 128, a total their bowlers defended effectively.

4 Feb 2026 11:51 am
T20 World Cup: New Zealand head coach Rob Walter provide crucial injury update of Michael Bracewell

New Zealand's Michael Bracewell is making good progress from a calf injury and is on track to recover for the T20 World Cup. He could feature in the warm-up match against the USA on February 5. Despite recent setbacks, the Black Caps are considered contenders for the tournament.

4 Feb 2026 11:48 am
India vs Afghanistan U19 World Cup 2026 Live Streaming: When and where to watch semifinal, time, venue and squads

IND vs AFG U19 Live Streaming: India aims to maintain their undefeated streak in the U-19 World Cup semifinals against Afghanistan in Harare. The five-time champions, who have won all five matches, are one step away from a record sixth title. Afghanistan, with four wins, will pose a strong challenge in this crucial encounter.

4 Feb 2026 11:48 am
T20 World Cup: Coach plots first South Africa WC win after Test triumph

South Africa's cricket coach Shukri Conrad is targeting a T20 World Cup victory. He has changed tactics from the successful Test team. The team has used many players to build experience. A strong bowling attack and capable batsmen are key. The team believes they can compete with any opponent. Their focus is on advancing from the group stage.

4 Feb 2026 11:44 am
T20 World Cup ticket sales' third stage begins; Check details

The BCCI has launched the third phase of ticket sales for the upcoming T20 World Cup, following two successful earlier windows. This provides fans another chance to secure seats for matches at renowned Indian venues. Preparations are in their final stages, with a focus on venue readiness and spectator experience.

4 Feb 2026 11:29 am
T20 World Cup: Without Nicholas Pooran, an inconsistent West Indies look to revive their short format fortunes

Despite a mixed record since the last T20 World Cup, the West Indies enter the tournament with positives like Shai Hope's batting evolution and Sherfane Rutherford's form. However, the absence of Nicholas Pooran and inconsistent performances from other players present significant challenges for the two-time champions.

4 Feb 2026 11:26 am
T20 World Cup: MS Dhoni flags key hurdle for most dangerous team India

Cricket legend MS Dhoni believes India is a dangerous team for the T20 World Cup. He highlights their vast experience in the format. However, Dhoni is worried about the dew. He states that dew makes winning the toss crucial. This factor could significantly influence match outcomes. India aims to defend its title on home soil.

4 Feb 2026 11:07 am
T20 WC: Pakistans spin clicks, yet India boycott looms over campaign

Pakistan's T20 World Cup journey faces a significant hurdle. A government decision to forfeit their match against India could jeopardize their progress. The team must win all their remaining group games to stay in contention. Despite recent victories against Australia and South Africa, this political decision adds immense pressure.

4 Feb 2026 9:57 am
Hardik Pandya: The all-rounder who turns a strong Indian T20 team into a complete one

Hardik Pandya is the Indian T20 team's most critical element, providing balance and covering all bases. His unique seam-bowling all-round ability, combining tactical bowling with strong batting, makes him indispensable. Without him, the team's formidable strength falters, exposing fragilities that quality opposition could exploit.

4 Feb 2026 1:36 am
WADA under scrutiny after Chinese swimmers doping clearance

WADA is on the verge of a groundbreaking change in its anti-doping framework, responding to recent events involving Chinese swimmers who participated in competitions despite failed drug tests. To fortify the sport's reputation, WADA is deliberating the establishment of independent testing organizations to evaluate athletes ahead of major tournaments, including the Olympics.

4 Feb 2026 1:35 am
Beyond upsets, Dutch team chasing consistency: Bas de Leede

The Netherlands cricket team is targeting consistent performances at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup. All-rounder Bas de Leede emphasizes adaptability and making strengths stronger. The team has prepared extensively to handle varied playing conditions. Experience from past World Cups and playing against top teams has improved their competitiveness. They aim to deliver sustained performances throughout the tournament.

3 Feb 2026 8:19 pm
Gujarat Giants Women vs Delhi Capitals Women: Playing 11, pitch and weather report, livestreaming details and more

Delhi Capitals meet Gujarat Giants in a high-stakes WPL Eliminator. The winner advances to the final. Gujarat has won both league matches against Delhi. Captains Jemimah Rodrigues and Ashleigh Gardner are in form. Sophie Devine is a key player for Gujarat. The match will be broadcast on Star Sports and streamed on Jio Hotstar.

3 Feb 2026 6:43 pm
T20 World Cup: Great Himalayan Dream of 15 Nepal cricketers and their 30 million fans

Nepal cricket team is set for the T20 World Cup. They aim to make a strong showing against top teams like England and West Indies. The team boasts experienced players like Sandeep Lamichhane and skipper Rohit Paudel. Nepalese fans are expected to provide strong support. This tournament is seen as a crucial step for Nepali cricket's growth and infrastructure development.

3 Feb 2026 5:57 pm
T20 World Cup: Balanced but inconsistent, New Zealand enter tournament as dangerous dark horses

New Zealand heads into the T20 World Cup as a balanced team. They have shown flashes of brilliance but also faced recent setbacks. Key players like Tim Seifert and Finn Allen are in good form. However, issues around injuries and consistency remain. The team is seen as a dangerous dark horse capable of beating anyone.

3 Feb 2026 5:52 pm
T20 World Cup Boycott: Broadcasters may move court against Pakistan Cricket Board

Pakistan Cricket Board faces legal action from T20 World Cup broadcasters. The ICC has warned the PCB of potential lawsuits if Pakistan boycotts its February 15 game against India. Pakistan's government instructed the boycott. The ICC might withhold Pakistan's annual revenue share to pay broadcasters.

3 Feb 2026 5:48 pm
England vs Sri Lanka 3rd T20I: Playing 11, live streaming, pitch report, weather update and match prediction

SL vs ENG Live Streaming: Sri Lanka and England face off in the final T20I match. England has already won the series. Both teams are preparing for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. England aims for a clean sweep. Sri Lanka seeks a positive end to the series. The match starts at 7:30 pm IST. Live streaming is on FanCode.

3 Feb 2026 5:10 pm
T20 World Cup: Cummins says Hazlewood may miss half the event

Australian fast bowler Josh Hazlewood faces a delayed start to the T20 World Cup. Teammate Pat Cummins indicated Hazlewood might join the tournament halfway through due to hamstring and Achilles issues. Australia heads into the World Cup facing bowling concerns with other key players also sidelined. The team aims to overcome recent poor form and player availability challenges.

3 Feb 2026 2:35 pm
T20 World Cup: In-form India would be extremely difficult to beat, says ex-Aussie cricketer Michael Klinger

Former Australian cricketer Michael Klinger believes India's recent performance against New Zealand makes them a formidable contender for the T20 World Cup. He highlighted the aggressive top-order, particularly Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan, as key strengths. Klinger also acknowledged strong competition from Australia and South Africa.

3 Feb 2026 2:34 pm
Solely focussed on winning T20 World Cup, trust security: Marsh offers dead bat on controversies

Australia captain Mitchell Marsh declined to comment on Pakistan's boycott of the India match and Bangladesh's removal from the T20 World Cup. Marsh stated his sole focus is on winning the tournament, despite Australia's recent 0-3 T20 series loss to Pakistan. He expressed confidence in the team's ability to perform well in spin-friendly conditions at the World Cup.

3 Feb 2026 2:30 pm
Indias T20 World Cup title defence puts coach Gautam Gambhir under the scanner

India begins its T20 World Cup campaign as favorites at home. Coach Gautam Gambhir faces pressure. The tournament has seen a chaotic build-up with team changes. India aims for a strong performance led by Suryakumar Yadav. Abhishek Sharma opens the batting. The bowling attack features Jasprit Bumrah. The team is confident of success.

3 Feb 2026 2:20 pm
Benvenuti Azzurri! Italy chase golden moment in maiden T20 World Cup outing

Italy's cricket team, bolstered by experienced coaches like Kevin O'Brien and John Davison, is poised to make a significant impact at the T20 World Cup. Their recent victory over Ireland and dedicated training camps in Dubai and Sri Lanka highlight their ambition to shed their fringe sport status.

3 Feb 2026 2:13 pm
'Homecoming' for army of Indian-origin cricketers this T20 World Cup

More than three dozen cricketers of Indian origin will play in the T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Players like Saurabh Netravalkar and Monank Patel from USA, and Jaspreet Singh from Italy are set to compete. Canada and USA have the most players of Indian heritage.

3 Feb 2026 2:11 pm
Pat Cummins calls T20 world cup 2026 absence 'really unfortunate'

Australian captain Pat Cummins missed the T20 World Cup squad. A back injury recovery setback caused his omission. He aims to return for a busy Test schedule later this year. The team's morale is high for the tournament. Players are eager to begin the competition.

3 Feb 2026 1:08 pm
JioStar gets a Hyundai-sponsored ride for ICC Men's T20 World Cup

JioStar has announced Hyundai Motor India Limited as a key sponsor for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. The tournament will be broadcast on JioHotstar. This partnership highlights the growing importance of Connected TV for live sports viewing in India. Hyundai will gain prominent branding across JioStar's CTV platform.

3 Feb 2026 10:54 am
No India-Pakistan contest in T20 World Cup could cause losses to the tune of $250 million

Pakistan's decision to boycott the T20 World Cup match against India threatens massive financial losses. This high-stakes fixture generates millions in revenue. The absence of this game will impact the ICC and media rights holders. Pakistan faces potential penalties from the ICC. The situation highlights the immense commercial value of this cricket rivalry.

2 Feb 2026 6:34 pm
Govt eyes revival of Formula 1 in India

India's Sports Ministry is actively working to bring Formula 1 racing back to the Buddh International Circuit. Discussions are underway with track authorities to revive the event last held in 2013. The government is committed to seeing the high-profile sport return to the country.

2 Feb 2026 5:51 pm
Mandaviya backs Indias readiness for global sports events, launches Budget quiz

India has successfully hosted 45 international sports competitions in the past year. This achievement positions the nation as a reliable destination for major sporting events. The country is preparing to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and aims for the 2036 Olympic Games. Initiatives are also underway to boost domestic sports goods manufacturing.

2 Feb 2026 5:37 pm
How many ICC trophies has India won? Complete list of World Cup, T20 & Champions Trophy titles

ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026: India's cricket legacy boasts an impressive collection of eight ICC trophies. Celebrated victories include the T20 World Cups from 2007 and 2024, the ODI World Cups of 1983 and 2011, alongside three prestigious Champions Trophy titles.

2 Feb 2026 4:03 pm
Pakistan will follow its govt's decision on India boycott: Board Source

The Pakistan Cricket Board is adhering to government instructions to boycott the T20 World Cup game against India, despite the national team's departure for Colombo. This decision, seen as support for Bangladesh, will be communicated to the ICC, with the PCB prioritizing government directives over potential ICC repercussions and financial losses.

2 Feb 2026 3:53 pm
Tilak Varma, Manyank Yadav included in India A squad for T20 warm-up matches

Tilak Verma will play in India A's T20 World Cup warm-up matches. He is recovering from a groin injury. Mayank Yadav also returns to the squad after a long injury layoff. India A faces the USA and Namibia in warm-up games. Ayush Badoni captains the 15-member team. India's T20 World Cup campaign begins on February 7.

2 Feb 2026 3:52 pm
T20 World Cup 2026 Prize Money: How much money will winners take home this year?

ICC Mens T20 World Cup Prize Money 2026: The T20 World Cup 2026, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, will feature an expanded 20-team format. While the ICC has not yet announced prize money, it's expected to build on the record-breaking pool from the 2024 tournament, where champions India received a multi-million dollar payout.

2 Feb 2026 3:49 pm
India vs Pakistan T20 World Cup clash: Gavaskar and Harbhajan slam boycott, call for ICC action

Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar believes Pakistan may reconsider their decision to boycott the T20 World Cup match against India. He urges the ICC to pursue legal action against Pakistan for their refusal to play. This move could impact the tournament's integrity. Gavaskar suggests Pakistan's stance might change due to global reactions.

2 Feb 2026 3:38 pm
Pakistans relevance in cricket is its rivalry with India: Australian top sports journalist criticises PCB for boycott. Watch

Pakistan will not play India in the T20 World Cup. This decision faces criticism from Australian sports journalists. They warn Pakistan cricket could face deeper isolation. The boycott is a political protest. It is linked to Bangladesh's removal from the tournament. The India-Pakistan match is the biggest fixture. Pakistan risks disrupting the ICC's plans. The tournament begins as scheduled.

2 Feb 2026 3:32 pm
What led to Bangladeshs exit from the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026; All you need to know

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 is marred by controversy as Bangladesh withdrew due to security concerns over playing in India. Despite repeated requests to move matches to Sri Lanka, the ICC refused, citing no credible threat and potential precedent issues. Scotland has replaced Bangladesh in the tournament.

2 Feb 2026 3:14 pm
How a Bangladesh exit brought a European twist to the T20 World Cup 2026

Scotland joins the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 as a replacement. Bangladesh withdrew due to venue concerns in India. The ICC selected Scotland based on their T20I ranking. Scotland will compete in Group C starting February 7 in Kolkata. This marks Scotland's return to the tournament, bringing their past experience and global standing.

2 Feb 2026 3:09 pm
ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 Schedule: Full match list, dates, venues & timings

The ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 kicks off on February 7 across India and Sri Lanka, featuring 20 teams. Defending champions India begin their campaign against the USA in Mumbai. The tournament spans from February 7 to March 8, culminating in a final on March 8.

2 Feb 2026 2:27 pm
ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 India Schedule: Full match list, dates, venues & timings

ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 India schedule starts on February 7 in Mumbai. The team faces USA in its opening match. High-profile games against Pakistan and other nations will test India across home and Sri Lankan venues. Securing early momentum is crucial for advancing to the Super 8 stage.

2 Feb 2026 2:19 pm
Union budget 2026 supercharges Indias sporting ambitions through Khelo India Mission, higher grants

Union Budget of India 2026: India is set for a major sports transformation over the next decade. The government plans to enhance talent development, upgrade infrastructure, and integrate new technology. This initiative aims to make India a global leader in sports goods manufacturing. The focus is on nurturing young athletes and building a strong sporting culture.

2 Feb 2026 2:03 pm
From injury to diet to age verification, how AI is reshaping Indian athletes' training

Indian athletics: At the Sports Ministry's National Centre for Sports Science and Research (NCSSR) in Delhi, India's first Athlete Management and Sports Science platform has been developed and put into operation.

2 Feb 2026 1:58 pm