The Times of India

In a stunning display of skill, Smriti Mandhana smashed 124 runs, leading India to an impressive total. The bowlers followed suit, limiting Hong Kong to just 56 runs. This commanding 137-run victory not only showcased India's strength but also secured their entry into the Women's Asia Cup semi-finals, with Mandhana setting new records in women's international cricket.

In an exhilarating display of skill, Smriti Mandhana shattered records by scoring her 18th international century, amassing 124 runs in just 64 balls. Her explosive knock led India to a formidable total of 193 runs. Shafali Verma played a vital role at the start with her brisk 28, setting the tone for a dominant batting showcase by the Indian team.

BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia shares major updates on Rohit Sharmas future, chief selector Ajit Agarkar, VVS Laxmans role and more. Heres what Saikia had to say on the key developments surrounding Indian cricket and Team India.

Yuzvendra Chahal dismissed Ben Stokes with a remarkable delivery in the County Championship. The Indian spinner's magic ball left the England all-rounder completely baffled. Chahal claimed four wickets for 36 runs in a superb spell. Stokes has faced difficulties against Indian spinners recently. This dismissal highlighted Chahal's impressive performance for Northamptonshire.

Legendary cricketer Wasim Akram urges fans to leave past conflicts behind when it comes to cricket. He emphasises that the India-Pakistan rivalry should be viewed simply as a sport. Reflecting on his mentorship of Irfan Pathan, who admired his bowling style, Akram noted Pathan's impressive hat-trick against Pakistan. Ultimately, he reminded everyone that victories and defeats are part of the game, encouraging fans to let go of grudges.

VVS Laxman will coach the Indian men's cricket team at the 2026 Asian Games. Gautam Gambhir will remain with the senior team for the West Indies ODI series. The Indian men's team will defend its T20 title under Shreyas Iyer. Harmanpreet Kaur will lead the defending champion Indian women's team. Both teams are set to compete in the upcoming Asian Games.

Keyaa Kunal Banerji made headlines by lifting 140kg and snagging a silver medal at the world championships, an impressive feat that made waves on social media as it was over three times her own bodyweight. Meanwhile, Madhura Kar shone brightly, collecting four gold medals, and Asma Taherali Zabuawala secured a commendable sixth place in her weight category. Together, they exemplify India's rising prowess in global powerlifting arena.

Pakistans cricket team faced fresh controversy when several players dropped from the Test squad were told to attend a meeting with King Charles III. Four attended despite preferring to stay away, while one refused in protest. The meeting came after Pakistans defeats to England triggered major squad changes, the sacking of coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and the appointment of Mike Hesson.

The defending champion rejected the suggestion that her off-court appearances had affected her preparation.

Babar, along with the Pakistan squad and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, visited Clarence House on September 2. During the meeting, Babar handed the King a bat signed by all the players as a gesture of goodwill and sportsmanship.

American Grandmaster Levon Aronian has revealed how Praggnanandhaa turned a weakness he identified last year into a strength, helping the Indian grandmaster win the Grand Chess Tour (GCT) Finals. Aronian, who had beaten Praggnanandhaa in GCT Finals last year, praised the youngester's progress and fighting spirit while admitting he was surprised by how quickly the Indian closed that gap.

American chess grandmaster Hans Niemann urged FIDE to punish players for publicly making accusations, especially involving young competitors. His comments came after Ian Nepomniachtchi questioned a move by 14-year-old Canadian IM Aaron Mendes during their Titled Tuesday game. Nepomniachtchi described the move as suspicious, while Mendes went on to win after Nepomniachtchis blunder and eventual resignation.

Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Mohsin Naqvi defended sweeping Test squad and coaching changes after Pakistans heavy 2-0 series loss to England. Seven players were dropped and five uncapped players added, while Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke took coaching roles. Despite criticism from former cricketers and fans, Naqvi called the decisions essential and defended his record, highlighting progress in white-ball cricket.

Stalwarts career, ODI team and the teams poor performances in Ireland and England to be discussed as Indian crickets top brass meets on September 3 in Mumbai.

India will host the inaugural ICC Women's Champions Trophy in 2027. The six-team tournament will be played in the T20I format across two venues. Sri Lanka lost hosting rights due to governance concerns, leading to India's successful bid. Qualified teams include India, Australia, England, New Zealand, South Africa, and Sri Lanka. This event signifies a new chapter for women's international cricket.

In an interview with TimesofIndia.com, Viswanathan Anand opens up about balancing his interim FIDE presidency with his return to the Global Chess League, his hunger to win, the leagues competitive nature, and his assessment of Praggnanandhaas remarkable turnaround.

The PCB recalled seven players and replaced two coaches after Pakistan lost the series 2-0 against England.