The Times of India

Suryakumar Yadav's recent form with two consecutive fifties has silenced doubts ahead of the T20 World Cup. After a lean patch, a crucial innings in Raipur saw him bat with patience, assessing conditions before unleashing his signature strokeplay. This resurgence provides vital reassurance for the Indian team management.

Nat Sciver-Brunt etched her name in WPL history, smashing the tournament's inaugural century with an unbeaten 100 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. This remarkable feat propelled her to the top of the season's run charts and solidified her status as a dominant force in women's cricket. Her stellar performance anchored Mumbai Indians' innings, setting a formidable target.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup participation hangs in the balance, with a decision on playing against co-hosts India delayed until at least Friday. Discussions are underway regarding a potential boycott in solidarity with Bangladesh, who were removed from the tournament. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has directed the cricket board to explore all options.

Hardik Pandya's decade in Indian cricket has been a journey of impact and resilience, marked by explosive starts, physical setbacks, and leadership roles. From a costly debut over to crucial World Cup final performances, his career showcases volatility, scrutiny, and a consistent ability to influence games with both bat and ball.

Bihar secured a dominant 568-run victory over Manipur in the Plate final, earning a promotion back to the Ranji Trophy Elite Group. Piyush Singh's unbeaten double century and strong bowling performances from Suraj Kashyap and Himanshu Singh were instrumental in their crushing win.

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Sanju Samson's T20I career is plagued by inconsistency despite his talent. Experts point to a technical issue with bat-speed adjustment and mental pressure from competition. While suited for the top order, a lack of clarity and over-reliance on off-side play are highlighted as key challenges needing better management.

Lorenzo Musetti, ranked world No. 5, advanced to his fourth major quarter-final at the Australian Open with a strong performance against Taylor Fritz. He now faces a significant challenge in a generational clash against Novak Djokovic, aiming to disrupt the established order in men's tennis.

Aakash Chopra highlighted Ishan Kishan's strong T20I form against New Zealand, contrasting it with Sanju Samson's struggles. Kishan's consistent performances and Samson's recent dismissals raise questions about India's wicketkeeper-batter choice, especially with Tilak Varma's potential return.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup 2026 participation is under scrutiny following Bangladesh's exclusion. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi will meet the squad amidst growing concerns. Former cricketer Kamran Akmal stressed Pakistan's necessity in the global event, urging against politics in cricket and highlighting the financial impact of their potential absence.

Sunil Gavaskar views India's T20I series win against New Zealand as crucial preparation for their World Cup defense. He highlighted the team's depth and focus on range-hitting, even with players yet to bat significantly. Gavaskar also praised Abhishek Sharma's rapid half-century and Suryakumar Yadav's timely knock.

Members of the Indian sports fraternity extended Republic Day greetings on social media, emphasizing the importance of the Constitution, unity, and national duty. Athletes and sports bodies shared messages on platforms like X and Instagram, celebrating India's 77th Republic Day and expressing pride in their nation.

Cricket fraternity mourns the loss of IS Bindra, a pivotal figure in Indian cricket administration. Veteran administrator Prof Ratnakar Shetty lauded Bindra's immense contributions, including strengthening Asian cricket ties, successfully hosting World Cups, and leading the BCCI's fight for broadcasting rights. Bindra also played a crucial role in the IPL's inception and guiding its early stages.

Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the current Indian T20 side is almost impossible to beat following their dominant series win against New Zealand. Pathan highlighted the team's fearless, ultra-aggressive batting approach, which he feels intimidates rivals and leaves them with o margin for error ahead of the 2026 T20 World Cup.

New Zealand's Mark Chapman lauded Abhishek Sharma's explosive six-hitting, attributing it to sharp awareness and planning rather than just aggression. Sharma's blistering form, including a 14-ball fifty, has provided valuable lessons for New Zealand ahead of the T20 World Cup, highlighting areas for improvement in their own game.

Vikram Reddy Sudini's unfulfilled cricket dream found new life through his son, Nitish. The 18-year-old made history by becoming the first USA player to score an Under-19 World Cup century, remaining unbeaten on 117 against New Zealand. This achievement fulfilled his father's long-held aspiration, with Nitish now aiming to represent the USA senior team.

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Shreyas Iyer will continue to be with India T20I team for the remaining two T20Is vs New Zealand as Tilak Varma's return to competitive cricket has been delayed. Iyer was initially picked for only the first three games but will now continue to be with the side for remainder of the series.

Rachin Ravindra press conference: on adapting in India & momentum swings

Abhishek Sharmas explosive rise has reshaped Indias T20 blueprint. With a strike rate touching 200, fear factor in the powerplay and consistency to match intent, the left-hander has become indispensable to Indias T20 World Cup title defence. Beyond numbers, it is the psychological impact he creates that gives India a decisive edge.

India secured an eight-wicket victory over New Zealand, clinching the T20I series 3-0. Abhishek Sharma's rapid 14-ball fifty and Suryakumar Yadav's attacking half-century powered India's chase, completing the target in just 10 overs. This dominant performance highlighted India's batting prowess and sealed a memorable series win.

India secured the T20I series with two games remaining. Jasprit Bumrah stated his focus is on team contribution, not ball preference. He delivered a strong performance with three wickets. Abhishek Sharma and Suryakumar Yadav led the chase with powerful batting. Bumrah also marked ten years in international cricket, reflecting on his journey.

Legendary wrestling coach Vladimir Mestvirishvili, affectionately known as Laado in India, has been posthumously awarded the Padma Shri. His son, Shalva, expressed overwhelming emotion and gratitude, highlighting his father's deep connection with India and its wrestlers. Vladimir, instrumental in shaping India's freestyle wrestling talent, becomes the first foreign coach to receive this prestigious honour.

India's T20 World Cup squad is planning a practice match on February 4 due to injury concerns for Washington Sundar and Tilak Varma. Selectors are exploring options like playing South Africa or India 'A' players. Riyan Parag is being prepared as a potential backup, with his fitness to be assessed soon.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape pulled off a sensational last-over heist to beat Pretoria Capitals by six wickets and win the fourth edition of the SA20. It was their third title, having also finished runners-up last year. From the auction to structure, SEC are, undoubtedly, T20 franchise cricket's sporting dynasty.

Abhishek Sharma smashed the second-fastest T20I half-century by an Indian, reaching his fifty in just 14 balls against New Zealand. The explosive opener remained unbeaten on 68 off 20 deliveries, guiding India to an eight-wicket victory. Sharma attributed his fearless approach to team expectations and instinct.

Sunrisers Eastern Cape underlined their dominance of the SA20 by clinching a third title, beating Pretoria Capitals by six wickets in a thrilling final at Newlands. After Dewald Brevis scintillating century set the stage, captain Tristan Stubbs and Matthew Breetzke powered Sunrisers home with an unbeaten 114-run stand, sealing another historic triumph.

The Bangladesh Cricket Board has accepted the ICC's decision to replace them with Scotland in the T20 World Cup after the government refused to clear the team for travel to India due to security concerns. The BCB stated they cannot participate in the current fixture and will not pursue arbitration.

Jessica Pegula showcased a dominant performance, defeating close friend and defending champion Madison Keys 6-3, 6-4 to advance to the Australian Open quarter-finals. The sixth seed's clinical play from the baseline exposed Keys' errors, securing Pegula's fourth Melbourne quarter-final appearance. Despite the emotional win, Pegula remains focused on her maiden Grand Slam pursuit.

MS Dhoni, at 44, is training intensely for IPL 2026, sparking speculation about his role. Former teammate R Ashwin believes Dhoni might bat higher up the order, potentially at number three, to be an aggressor. Ashwin also praised CSK's formidable batting lineup, bolstered by new signings, predicting a challenging season for opponents.

India's Test vice-captain Rishabh Pant, opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, and allrounder Shardul Thakur will miss Mumbai's Ranji Trophy match against Delhi due to injuries and illness. Pant is recovering from a side strain, Jaiswal from stomach pain after food poisoning, and Thakur from a calf injury. Mumbai has already qualified for the quarterfinals.

Yuvraj Singh acknowledged Abhishek Sharma's rapid T20I fifty, a feat just shy of his own record. Sharma's aggressive batting propelled India's powerplay score, showcasing his fearless approach and strategic thinking. This explosive performance marks him as a significant emerging talent for India's T20 World Cup aspirations.

Former BCCI president and veteran cricket administrator Inderjit Singh Bindra passed away at his New Delhi residence on Sunday at the age of 84. His health deteriorated suddenly after lunch, and he died around 6.30 pm. The last rites of Bindra, a key figure in Indian cricket administration, will be performed at the Lodhi crematorium on Monday.

India's batters showcased explosive intent, achieving their fastest-ever team fifty in just 3.1 overs against New Zealand. Abhishek Sharma's blistering 14-ball half-century and Suryakumar Yadav's quickfire fifty powered India to a dominant eight-wicket victory, securing the series. This aggressive batting display signals a new era for Indian T20 cricket.

India crushed New Zealand by eight wickets in the third T20I to seal the series 3-0. Bumrahs 3/17, backed by Hardik, Bishnoi, and Rana, restricted New Zealand to 153/9. In reply, Abhishek Sharmas 68 off 20 and Suryakumar Yadavs 57 off 26 powered India to 155/2 in just 10 overs, completing a commanding win.

Abhishek Sharma etched his name in the record books with a blistering 14-ball fifty, the joint third-fastest in men's T20Is against a Full Member nation. His fearless counter-attack, including a rapid 53-run partnership with Ishan Kishan, set the tone for India's comfortable chase. This historic knock followed a mixed series start, showcasing Sharma's growing reputation as a formidable top-order batter.

Sanju Samson's T20I struggles persisted as he was dismissed for a golden duck on the first ball against New Zealand. His recent lean patch, with scores of 10, 6, and 0, has intensified discussions about India's opening combination. Meanwhile, India's bowlers, led by Ravi Bishnoi and Jasprit Bumrah, restricted New Zealand to 153 for 9.

Hardik Pandya delivered a spectacular catch in the third T20I against New Zealand. This moment of brilliance provided India with an early advantage. India captain Suryakumar Yadav won the toss and chose to bowl. Harshit Rana took an early wicket. India leads the series 2-0. The team aims to play fearlessly.

Josh Inglis blasted a six to seal a crushing six-wicket victory for the Perth Scorchers and their record sixth Big Bash League T20 title over the Sydney Sixers in Perth on Sunday. A sixth title for this club, it's special.

Pakistan's T20 World Cup squad announcement is not a confirmation of participation, with the PCB awaiting government approval. Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated the board will follow the government's decision regarding the tournament in India and Sri Lanka. The PCB also voiced strong disapproval of the ICC's stance on Bangladesh's exclusion.

Rohit Sharma lauded Suryakumar Yadav's crucial role in the Indian cricket team. Sharma highlighted Yadav's consistent performance and unique batting style as vital for the team's strength. He also commended Abhishek Sharma's smart and impactful opening batting. These players are set to be key for India's upcoming T20 World Cup campaign.

Joe Root has backed England head coach Brendon McCullum, expressing confidence in the team's direction despite the Ashes defeat. Root highlighted McCullum's positive impact on his own game, stating his performance has improved tenfold since the coach's arrival. This support comes after England's ODI series win against Sri Lanka.

Rohit Sharma and Harmanpreet Kaur are set to receive the prestigious Padma Shri for their significant contributions. Sharma's leadership saw India clinch the 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy, while Kaur captained the historic Women's World Cup victory on home soil. Their achievements mark a new era for Indian cricket.

Chennai teenager RS Ambrish, a right-arm fast bowler and left-handed batsman, draws inspiration from Ben Stokes. He showcased his all-round potential with a 4/29 spell against New Zealand at the U-19 World Cup. Guided by his father, a former Railways cricketer, Ambrish prioritizes strong technique and temperament as he navigates his promising junior cricket career.