Jemimah Rodrigues Opts Out Of Remainder Of WBBL
CEO Terry Svenson: Brisbane Heat have confirmed that star India cricketer Jemimah Rodrigues will not return for the remainder of the WBBL season, granting her request to stay in India following the postponement of teammate Smriti Mandhana's wedding. Rodrigues flew home after the Heats clash with the Hobart Hurricanes 10 days ago to take part in the celebrations, but the event was called off when Mandhanas father fell ill. The 24-year-old has opted to remain in India to support the family, and the Heat said they fully respected her decision. CEO Terry Svenson acknowledged the disappointment among fans hoping to see more of Rodrigues, who was the clubs top international draft pick this year and in her second stint with Brisbane, but emphasised that the franchises priority was her wellbeing. Svenson, in a statement released by the franchise, said, It has obviously been a challenging time for Jemi, so while it is unfortunate that she will take no further part in the WBBL, we were more than willing to agree to her request to remain in India. The Heat club obviously wish her and Smriti Mandhanas family all the best for the future. Jemi told us she was disappointed not to be coming back and has passed on her appreciation to the club and the Heat fans for being so understanding of the circumstances. She has been in touch with the players and wished them all the best for the rest of their games, he added. Svenson, in a statement released by the franchise, said, It has obviously been a challenging time for Jemi, so while it is unfortunate that she will take no further part in the WBBL, we were more than willing to agree to her request to remain in India. The Heat club obviously wish her and Smriti Mandhanas family all the best for the future. Also Read: Live Cricket Score All-rounder Grace Harris returns to the lineup after being rested for workload management, replacing Lily Bassingthwaighte in the squad as Brisbane look to get their season going. Article Source: IANS
Botham Calls Englands Outing In Ashes Opener horrendous'
PA News Agency: England legend Ian Botham criticised Bazball, suggesting that Ben Stokes and his team should consider returning home if they refuse to adapt after their embarrassing defeat in Perth. England was thoroughly outplayed by Travis Head's brilliance, allowing Australia to finish the match in just two days and secure an eight-wicket victory. England's Bazball approach faced further criticism, with figures like Michael Vaughan and R Ashwin calling it reckless after the defeat. The latest to condemn Bazball is Botham, describing it as horrendous and warning that England must quickly adapt and energise away from Bazball. It (Perth) was horrendous, there's no other word for it. England needs to fire up and fire up quickly. I'm fed up of hearing, 'this is the way we play'. If I hear it once more, I think I'll throw something at the television. If that's the way you play, you might as well go home now because it's going to be 5-0. They probably won't like me saying that but they need to need to get their heads around it. I want more pride when I see people pulling that sweater on, Botham told PA News Agency. The Ashes opener in Perth became a remarkable two-day drubbing as Australia defeated England by eight wickets. England, having won the toss and chosen to bat, scored only 172 in the first innings before the hosts were bowled out for 132. The chaotic first day saw a record 19 wickets fall, the most ever on Day 1 of an Ashes Test, with bowlers, especially Mitchell Starc, dominating and leaving England in a vulnerable state. They probably won't like me saying that but they need to need to get their heads around it. I want more pride when I see people pulling that sweater on, Botham told PA News Agency. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With support from Marnus Labuschagne (51*) and the winning runs from Steve Smith, Australia wrapped up the chase in just 28.2 overs, leaving England shell-shocked, while Australia surged to a 10 lead in the five-match series. Article Source: IANS
NZ Pacer Ben Sears To Play Club Cricket In Melbourne
Melbourne University Cricket Club: New Zealand fast bowler Ben Sears is set for a short playing spell in Victoria Premier Cricket as he works his way back from a hamstring injury. Sears will feature in six matches for Melbourne University Cricket Club - five T20s and one 50-over game - aiming to be ready for Wellingtons Super Smash campaign beginning in late December. If he returns to full fitness, he is expected to be in contention for New Zealands T20 World Cup squad in February. The 27-year-old has been out of action since the T20I series against Australia in early October, following a recurrence of the hamstring issue that also kept him out of Februarys Champions Trophy. With New Zealand currently focused on Plunket Shield fixtures and offering minimal short-format opportunities, Melbourne was chosen as the ideal place for him to regain match practice. Ben has missed a large portion of cricket in two out of the last three summers, so it was important for him to get as much cricket as possible on grass wickets leading into his Super Smash return, New Zealand coach Rob Walter said. He's a big part of our future plans and with an important period of T20 cricket ahead of us, we want to ensure Ben has the safest and most appropriate return to play plan in place. He's been progressing well and we're looking forward to seeing how he gets on in Melbourne. Sears who has represented New Zealand in one Test, four ODIs, and 22 T20Is is among several Black Caps fast bowlers currently dealing with injuries. Will O'Rourke is still recovering from a back stress fracture, Lockie Ferguson has been out with a hamstring issue, and Adam Milne is managing an ankle injury. Kyle Jamieson is also being eased back carefully following his back problems. He's a big part of our future plans and with an important period of T20 cricket ahead of us, we want to ensure Ben has the safest and most appropriate return to play plan in place. He's been progressing well and we're looking forward to seeing how he gets on in Melbourne. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sears will play his first match for University, a T20 against Kingston-Hawthorn, on Sunday. Article Source: IANS
ICC Rates Perth Pitch 'very Good' After Rapid Ashes Opener
The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has rated the playing surface for the first Ashes Test in Perth as 'very good' after the series opener was wrapped up within two days. The entire Test match lasted just 847 deliveries, making it the shortest Ashes Test by balls bowled since 1888. Match referee Ranjan Madugalle rated the Perth wicket 'very good', which, under the ICC's four-tier rating system, is the highest ranking possible awarded to pitches with good carry, limited seam movement, and consistent bounce early in the match, allowing for a balanced contest between batters and bowlers. The opening Test saw 19 wickets fall on Day 1 as England were bowled out for 172 with Mitchell Starc taking career-best figures of 7-58 before Australia's batters collapsed to 121/9 at stumps. Day 2 saw 13 wickets fall and 380 runs put on the board as England were bowled out for 164 before Travis Head's incredible 123 guided Australia to an eight-wicket win and 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Cricket Australia, chief of cricket, James Allsopp, said, The match referee's 'very good' rating justifies our belief Perth Stadium produced a pitch that provided a fair balance between bat and ball. The dominance of some brilliant pace bowling from both sides and the frenetic nature of the contest meant the match lasted only two days. Day 2 saw 13 wickets fall and 380 runs put on the board as England were bowled out for 164 before Travis Head's incredible 123 guided Australia to an eight-wicket win and 1-0 lead in the five-match series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As always, we want to ensure pitches across Australia have their own characteristics and we're looking forward to another enthralling contest under lights at the Gabba starting next Thursday, he added. Article Source: IANS
Jonassen Pulls Out Of WPL Auction Due To Injury, Other Left-arm Spinners In Sharp Focus
Mannat Kashyap Shuchi Upadhayay: Hours ahead of the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction, Australias left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Jess Jonassen has been ruled out from the player pool owing to an injury. Sources familiar with the matter told IANS on Thursday that Jesss unavailability was formally communicated to all five franchises during the mandatory pre-auction briefing on Wednesday. Jess had been a part of Delhi Capitals (DC) in the first three WPL seasons, where they finished as runners-up on all occasions. Though Jess is turning out for Brisbane Heat in the ongoing Womens Big Bash League (WBBL), it is understood that a shoulder issue she has been managing for an extended period is the reason behind her unavailability for the WPL auction and subsequent season. A few teams were keen on getting her in the auction due to Sophie Molineux not registering, but now that strategy has been changed and back up plans being discussed due to her unavailability being told a day prior. It wont come as a surprise if the other left-arm spinners, especially in the Indian players pool, will have more takers for them or their eventual price sees an increase in the mega auction, said sources. Other prominent left-arm spin bowling options who are also handy all-rounders are Englands Sophie Ecclestone, South Africas Chloe Tryon, as well as Indias N Sree Charani, Radha Yadav, Tanuja Kanwer, and are followed by youngsters like Parunika Sisodia, Bharti Rawal, Vaishavi Sharma, Ayushee Shukla, Mannat Kashyap Shuchi Upadhayay and Triveni Vasistha. It is also understood that in the pre-auction briefing, all five franchises were told that India opener Pratika Rawal, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia and uncapped seamer VJ Joshitha are nursing injuries, though their names remain in the auction pool. Pratika is recovering from an ankle injury sustained in the World Cup league game against Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai, while Yastika had to undergo an ACL surgery after being ruled out of the World Cup due to injuring her left knee in the pre-tournament camp in Visakhapatnam. It is also understood that the injured trio cannot be counted towards the mandatory 15-member squad (though 18 is the maximum squad strength for the competition), and if they are picked, teams cannot get a replacement for them. Pratika is recovering from an ankle injury sustained in the World Cup league game against Bangladesh in Navi Mumbai, while Yastika had to undergo an ACL surgery after being ruled out of the World Cup due to injuring her left knee in the pre-tournament camp in Visakhapatnam. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 2026 WPL mega auction will begin with the marquee set featuring eight players Sophie, India duo of Deepti Sharma and Renuka Singh Thakur, followed by Australian pair of Alyssa Healy and Meg Lanning, South Africas Laura Wolvaardt and New Zealand duo of Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr. Article Source: IANS
Sears set for club cricket stint in Melbourne
The fast bowler has been sidelined by a hamstring injury since early October
Plans being developed for NZ20 league in January 2027
Don MacKinnon, who heads the NZ20 Establishment Committee, believes the game needs to look beyond the Super Smash
ICC hand down pitch rating for two-day Perth Test
The opening match of the Ashes series was one of the shortest Tests in history
Bangladesh vs Ireland, 1st T20I - Who will win today BAN vs IRE match?
BAN vs IRE , 1st T20I , Cricket Tips :The T20 World Cup 2026 is just a few months away, and the preparations for the mega event are at their fullest. Bangladesh and Ireland will also be taking on each other in three T20s. Bangladesh whitewashed Ireland 2-0 in the test series last week. The first T20I will be held at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram, starting at 5:30 PM IST on November 27. Bangladesh have dropped Shamim Hossain. Bangladesh lost the previous T20I series against West Indies and will look to undo all the mistakes here. Ireland are a tough T20I side, and it will be a close contest. BAN vs IRE: Match Details Date : November 27, 2025 (Thursday) Time : 5:30 PM IST Venue : Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram BAN vs IRE: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action of the BAN vs IRE game on the FanCode mobile app or website with a nominal fee. BAN vs IRE: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 08 Bangladesh : 05 Ireland : 02 Drawn : 01 BAN vs IRE: Ground Pitch Report The surface in Chattogram is another typical Bangladeshi wicket, which is expected to break down and produce uneven bounce. The ball will skid early on, and batting will be difficult here. However, whoever bats first can score runs when the wicket is firm. BAN vs IRE: Possible XIs Bangladesh : Tanzid Hasan, Pravez Emon, Litton Das (c & wk), Towhid Hridoy, Mahedi Hasan, Jaker Ali, Saif Hassan, Shoriful Islam, Rishad Hossain, Mustafizur Rahman, Taskin Hasan Ireland : Paul Stirling (c), Jordan Neil, Harry Tector (wk), Curtis Campher, Ben Calitz, Gerath Delany, George Dockrell, Matthew Humphreys, Mark Adair, Josh Little, Barry McCarthy BAN vs IRE: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Litton Das is the in-form batter for Bangladesh. He scored runs for the hosts in the test series as well. For Ireland, the form of captain Paul Stirling is important at the top. Probable Best Bowler Rishad Hossain has troubled the opposition in recent times. He bowls a good line and can turn the ball both ways. For Ireland, Matthew Humphreys was the pick of the bowlers in these conditions in Tests. Today Match Prediction : It is difficult for teams to beat Bangladesh in Bangladesh. Hence, we predict the hosts to win the first T20I. BAN vs IRE Match 1st T20I, Today Match BAN vs IRE, BAN vs IRE Prediction, BAN vs IRE Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Bangladesh vs Ireland Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, 6th T20I- Who will win today PAK vs SL match?
PAK vs SL , 6th T20I , Cricket Tips :Pathum Nissanka played a match-winning knock against Zimbabwe and scored an unbeaten 98 off 58 balls to take Sri Lanka to victory. Though he missed a well-deserved century, he certainly gave hope to his team to play in the tri-series final. Sri Lanka will now face Pakistan at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. This match will begin at 6:30 PM IST on Thursday, and it is a chance for Sri Lanka to make it to the final. With three out of three wins, Pakistan are already through. This is a dead rubber game for them. But they will look to keep the winning momentum up. PAK vs SL: Match Details Date : November 27, 2025 (Thursday) Time : 6:30 PM IST Venue : Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium PAK vs SL: Live Streaming Details To watch the live action of the PAK vs SL game, Indian fans can switch to the Sports TV YouTube channel on Thursday. PAK vs SL: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 25 Pakistan : 15 Sri Lanka : 10 No - result / Tied : 00 PAK vs SL: Ground Pitch Report Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium offers a balanced wicket. Batters who can stay patient and have a good game against spin can run here. Fast bowlers will get swing for the first few overs, and then spinners will dominate the game. PAK vs SL: Possible XIs Pakistan : Salman Agha (c), Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Saim Ayub, Usman Khan (wk), Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Md. Wasim Jr, Mohammad Nawaz, Naseem Shah, Usman Tariq Zimbabwe : Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Kamil Mishara, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kusal Perera, Pavan Rathnayake, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga PAK vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter It will be a competition between Sahibzada Farhan and Pathum Nissanka. Both are in good form and are key batters for their side. Probable Best Bowler Usman Tariq is a mystery bowler who recorded a hat trick against Zimbabwe. For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga has troubled these Pakistani batters in recent matches. Today Match Prediction : Sri Lanka are not looking comfortable against Pakistan and are losing consistently. Hence, we predict Pakistan to win this game. PAK vs SL Match 6th T20I, Today Match PAK vs SL, PAK vs SL Prediction, PAK vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Still Stranded After 4 Hours Mohammed Siraj Accuses Air India Express Of Leaving Passengers In Limbo
Air India Express Flight IX: India national cricket team fast-bowler Mohammad Siraj has publicly vented his anger after a frustrating experience with Air India Express. In a message on social media, Siraj said that his flight Air India Express Flight IX 2884 from Guwahati to Hyderabad was scheduled to depart at 7:25 pm but never took off on time. According to Siraj, despite repeated follow-ups, the airline offered no proper explanation and left passengers stranded for four hours. Flight delayed by 4 hours and still no update has left us stranded. Worst airline experience, Siraj wrote, warning fellow travellers against boarding the flight unless the airline cant take a stand. Siraj is returning home to Hyderabad after the Indian team suffered an embarrassing 408-run defeat to South Africa and lost the two-match series 0-2, their second successive home series clean sweep after losing 3-0 to New Zealand last year. Off-spinner Simon Harmer picked up 6-37 as India, chasing a massive target of 549, slumped to 140 all out on the fifth and final day of the match despite veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja waging a lone battle, top-scoring 54, the only saving grace for the Indian batting line-up that has surrendered completely against sustained bowling. South Africa also handed India their heaviest Test defeat by runs and set a new record for their biggest winning margin over India in Tests. Right from the time South Africa won the toss, everything went their way. India lost the first Test by 30 runs at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. India are now left to ponder over multiple questions as their fortress-like reputation when playing Tests at home suffered another big blow after their 3-0 loss to New Zealand last year. South Africa also handed India their heaviest Test defeat by runs and set a new record for their biggest winning margin over India in Tests. Right from the time South Africa won the toss, everything went their way. India lost the first Test by 30 runs at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will play South Africa in a three-match ODI series from November 30. Article Source: IANS
Opposition Rahul Gandhi: Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, hosted the Indian blind womens cricket team, winners of the inaugural T20 World Cup, at 10 Janpath, New Delhi, on Wednesday. The Indian team made history by winning the first-ever Blind Women's T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka, beating Nepal by seven wickets in the final. Today, had the honour of hosting the Indian Blind Womens Cricket Team, the proud winners of the inaugural T20 World Cup, in New Delhi. Their historic victory is a powerful message of courage and possibilities. Their grit, discipline, and extraordinary spirit are an inspiration for the entire nation. India is proud of these champions, posted Rahul Gandhi on Facebook. The teams success marked a perfect campaign, with India remaining unbeaten throughout the tournament, demonstrating complete dominance. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. In the semifinal, India secured a commanding nine-wicket victory over Australia, while Nepal advanced to the final by narrowly defeating Pakistan in the other last-four encounter. Opting to field first after winning the toss, India restricted Nepal to 114 for 5 in 20 overs. The chase was nothing short of clinical as India surpassed the target in just 12.1 overs with 47 balls to spare. Khula Sharir emerged as the stand-out performer, scoring an unbeaten 44 off 27 balls, including four boundaries, to guide India home comfortably. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias emphatic title run not only highlights their consistency but also marks a major milestone for blind cricket, paving the way for increased recognition and growth of the sport in the coming years. Article Source: IANS
Sai Sudharsan Added To TN Squad For Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: India batter Sai Sudharsan was added to the senior squad of Tamil Nadu by the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) on Wednesday for the ongoing Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT) in Ahmedabad, giving the team a much-needed boost following a slow start to the season. After scoring 15 and 14 in a difficult debut series that ended in a 408-run thrashing, the 24-year-old, who played in India's most recent Test loss in Guwahati that sealed a 0-2 series loss to South Africa, returns to domestic T20 action. Only Yashpal Sharma's 13 off 157 against Australia in 1981 is slower than Sudharsan's lengthy innings of 14 off 139 balls against South Africa in the current second Test at Guwahati, which is India's second-slowest Test knock involving at least 100 balls. Sudharsan's inclusion is anticipated to bolster an inexperienced batting unit looking for early momentum after Tamil Nadu lost to Rajasthan by six wickets on Wednesday to start their Group D campaign. Ahmedabad is familiar to the left-hander because it is the city where he established his T20 reputation with the Gujarat Titans, for whom he was a standout opener. With 759 runs from 15 games at a strike rate of 156.17, Sudharsan had a breakout IPL 2025 season and won the Orange Cap. Tamil Nadu will be hoping he can carry this form into their SMAT campaign. India's national T20 championship will have six emerging sides, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Sikkim, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur, aiming for the plate division honours alongside the opportunity to be promoted to the elite category. The Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy's plate leg runs simultaneously with the 32-team competition in the elite bracket. Mizoram will be taking on Nagaland in the opening game of the plate division in Pune. Ahmedabad is familiar to the left-hander because it is the city where he established his T20 reputation with the Gujarat Titans, for whom he was a standout opener. With 759 runs from 15 games at a strike rate of 156.17, Sudharsan had a breakout IPL 2025 season and won the Orange Cap. Tamil Nadu will be hoping he can carry this form into their SMAT campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Varun Chakravarthy (capt), Narayan Jagadeesan (vice-capt, wk), Tushar Raheja (wk), VP Amit Sathvik, M. Shahrukh Khan, Andre Siddarth, Pradosh Ranjan Paul, Shivam Singh, R Sai Kishore, M Siddharth, T Natarajan, Gurjapneet Singh, A Esakkimuthu, R Sonu Yadav, R Silambarasan, S Rithik Easwaran (wk), Sai Sudharsan Article Source: IANS
Delighted That India Won Bid To Host Centenary Commonwealth Games 2030: PM Narendra Modi
Union Home Minister Amit Shah: Prime Minister Narendra Modi sent his congratulations to the people of India after the nation was officially awarded the 2030 Commonwealth Games, with Amdavad (Ahmedabad) declared as the host city. This landmark declaration was made during the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) General Assembly in Glasgow on Wednesday. has placed India firmly on the global sporting map. With the ethos of Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam, we are eager to celebrate these historic games with great enthusiasm. We look forward to welcoming the world! posted Narendra Modi on X. The Amdavad 2030 organisers will work with Commonwealth Sport and international federations to finalise a programme of 1517 sports aligned with the recent Sport Programme Review, with additional disciplines such as cricket T20, shooting, hockey, wrestling, judo, rugby sevens, and 3x3 basketball under consideration, besides the option for two new sports proposed by the host. Union Home Minister Amit Shah credited PM Narendra Modi for the achievement of turning Bharat into a global sports hotspot. Congratulations to every citizen as India wins the prestigious bid to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad. This is a testament to PM Shri @narendramodi Jis vision for turning our Bharat into a global sports hotspot. Through penance spanning over a decade, Modi Ji has developed world-class sports infrastructure and uplifted our nations potential through effective governance and seamless teamwork, Amit Shah posted on X. Union Home Minister Amit Shah credited PM Narendra Modi for the achievement of turning Bharat into a global sports hotspot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ahmedabad is the second Indian city and the third in Asia to host the Commonwealth Games. The next edition of the Games will be held in Glasgow, Scotland, in 2026. The previous edition was held in Birmingham in 2022. Article Source: IANS
Ahmedabad Named Host Of Centenary Commonwealth Games 2030
Commonwealth Sport General Assembly: Ahmedabad, India, has officially been confirmed as the host city for the Centenary Commonwealth Games in 2030, marking a historic milestone for the Commonwealth Sport Movement. This will be the second time that India will host the Commonwealth Games after New Delhi in 2010. The decision confirms that the worlds most populous nation will host the landmark edition of the Games after delegates from 74 Commonwealth member nations and territories approved Indias bid at the Commonwealth Sport General Assembly in Glasgow on Wednesday. India put forward a strong vision for the 2030 Games, with Ahmedabad, Gujarat, as the main host city. This plan builds on the groundwork laid by Glasgow 2026 and allows India to celebrate its centenary in a memorable way. Moments after Amdavad was chosen to host the 2030 Commonwealth Games, 20 Garba dancers and 30 Indian dhol drummers spontaneously performed in the General Assembly Hall. Their vibrant cultural display surprised delegates and offered a glimpse of the heritage and pride that athletes and fans can anticipate from a Games held in Gujarat, India. Garba is Gujarats traditional folk dance. The performance included members of Glasgows Indian community and individuals from other parts of the Commonwealth. It showcased both diversity and unity as part of the Movement, marking the journey from the Glasgow 2026 Commonwealth Games to its Centenary edition. The inaugural Commonwealth Games took place in 1930 in Hamilton, Canada. At the latest Games in Birmingham, England, in 2022, Australia led the medal tally. The top five nations also included England, Canada, India, and New Zealand. Donald Rukare, President of Commonwealth Sport, said, This is the start of a new golden era for Commonwealth Sport. After a 'Games reset', we head to Glasgow 2026 in fantastic shape to welcome the 74 teams of the Commonwealth before setting our sights on Amdavad 2030 for a special Centenary edition of the Commonwealth Games. India brings scale, youth, ambition, rich culture, enormous sporting passion, and relevance, and I'm delighted to report strong interest from a range of nations to host the 2034 Games and beyond. We start our next century for the Commonwealth Games in good health. PT Usha, President of the Commonwealth Games Association of India, said, We are deeply honoured by the trust shown by Commonwealth Sport. The 2030 Games will not only celebrate a hundred years of the Commonwealth Movement but also lay the foundation for the next century. It will bring together Athletes, communities, and cultures from across the Commonwealth in a spirit of friendship and progress. Aside from confirming the hosts for 2030, Commonwealth Sport also announced that 15 to 17 sports will be included at Amdavad 2030. The Amdavad 2030 team will collaborate with Commonwealth Sport and the International Federation community to develop a vibrant and engaging sports programme that resonates locally while appealing globally. This will follow Commonwealth Sports recent Sport Programme Review, which outlines the sports included in the Commonwealth Games: Athletics and Para Athletics, Swimming and Para Swimming, Table Tennis and Para Table Tennis, Bowls and Para Bowls, Weightlifting and Para Powerlifting, Artistic Gymnastics, Netball, and Boxing. The process to finalise the remaining sports in the programme will begin next month, with the complete line-up for the Centenary Games being announced next year. The sports being considered include:Archery, Badminton, 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball, Beach Volleyball,CricketT20,Cycling, Diving,Hockey,Judo, Rhythmic Gymnastics,RugbySevens,Shooting, Squash, Triathlon, Para Triathlon, and Wrestling. The host may also suggest up to two new or existing sports. Duncan Scott, multiple Commonwealth champion swimmer, said, The Commonwealth Games are a special part of my career. Taking part in the home Games is incredible, so Im excited for Indian Athletes wholl get to do that in 2030. And for everyone else, weve got an opportunity to expand our horizons and experience the ambition and colour of Amdavad and India. I loved the chance to compete in the Gold Coast in Australia as part of a travelling Team Scotland. The sports being considered include:Archery, Badminton, 3x3 Basketball and 3x3 Wheelchair Basketball, Beach Volleyball,CricketT20,Cycling, Diving,Hockey,Judo, Rhythmic Gymnastics,RugbySevens,Shooting, Squash, Triathlon, Para Triathlon, and Wrestling. The host may also suggest up to two new or existing sports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jaismine Lamboria, World Champion Boxer from India, said, It truly is a proud moment to see India become the host of the Centenary Commonwealth Games. Amdavad will give Athletes and fans a very warm and vibrant welcome, and having the opportunity to compete on home soil in 2030 will be a huge motivation for me and for many others. Im excited for the next decade for Indian sport. Article Source: IANS
WPL 2026 Auction: Meet The Uncapped Indian Players Who Could Be On Franchises Radar
Emerging Teams Asia Cup: In its three seasons so far, the Womens Premier League (WPL) has already proven to be a launchpad for talented cricketers to shine and enter the Indian team. Players such as N. Sree Charani and Kranti Gaud are prime examples of this trend, as the duo played pivotal roles in Indias recent triumph in the ODI World Cup. Before them, players like Shreyanka Patil, Saika Ishaque, Asha Sobhana, Kashvee Gautam, and Titas Sadhu first came to prominence through the WPL and graduated to the national setup following standout performances in the competition. In the mega auction for the 2026 WPL, scheduled for Thursday in New Delhi, though marquee internationals will dominate the spotlight, the eyes of fans will be on the gems franchises unearthed from the vast pool of 142 uncapped Indian players. IANS looks at some uncapped cricketers, who have never featured in the league before, and could ignite intense bidding wars in the upcoming WPL auction: Vaishnavi Sharma (Base Price INR 10 lakh) The left-arm spinner announced her arrival on the big stage with a hat-trick during India's victorious U-19 World Cup campaign in Malaysia this year, where she also ended up at the top of the wicket-taking charts. Since then, her trajectory has been nothing short of exceptional. Vaishnavi dominated the recent Senior Women's T20 Trophy by being the leading wicket-taker with 21 scalps coming in 11 matches at an economy rate of 6.47. She maintained her purple patch through the inter-zonal tournament by picking up 12 wickets in five matches for Central Zone. Both tournaments had been closely watched by WPL scouts on the ground, and they would have taken note of Vaishnavis ability to extract a sharp turn by bowling slower through the air. With left-arm spinners set to be in heavy demand, expect teams to be in a bidding war for Vaishnavi, who hails from Madhya Pradesh, a state that has produced Indian players like Pooja Vastrakar and Kranti Gaud. Deeya Yadav (Base Price INR 10 lakh) The hard-hitting top-order batter, who has consciously modelled her game on fellow Haryana opener Shafali Verma, enjoyed a breakout time in the Senior Women's T20 Trophy, amassing 298 runs in eight innings at an impressive average of 59.5 and a strike rate of 128, including hitting three half-centuries. Deeya maintained her explosive form in the inter-zonal T20s, amassing 151 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 149.5, and took North Zone to the final. The lanky openers range of shots has caught the attention of scouts. The Gurugram-based Deeya first came into the limelight in November 2023 when she smashed an unbeaten 213 off 125 balls against Tripura in the U-15 Women's One-Day Trophy at Raipur. Mamatha Madiwala (Base Price INR 10 lakh) Many teams will be looking for a wicketkeeper-batter who can be a handy addition in the lower order, and someone like Mamatha fits the bill. She came into attention when she hit 56 not out in India As four-wicket win over New Zealand via DLS method in the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup warm-up match at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 2 in Bengaluru. Though Shafali Verma top-scored with a 49-ball 70, Mamathas 56 not out off 60 balls, laced with six fours and a maximum, took India A over the line in what was also her debut game for the side. Representing Hyderabad in domestic cricket, Mamatha was a member of the Indian team at the 2023 Womens Emerging Teams Asia Cup in Hong Kong. Tanisha Singh (Base Price INR 10 lakh) Apart from her Delhi team-mates Bharti Rawal and Nazma Khan, another player from the national capital who will have the attention of all teams will be batting all-rounder Tanisha Singh. She was named the Most Valuable Player of the Season for her all-round performance in the 2025 Womens DPL, including hitting an unbeaten 76. Apart from being a handy off-spin bowler, Tanisha captained Delhi to the U23 Womens T20 Trophy win in the previous season. G. Trisha (Base Price INR 10 lakh) The Hyderabad-based opener had registered for WPL auctions before, but could never find any takers. But if her performances in 2025 are to go by, she may well find a team this time around in the mega auction. G. Trisha (Base Price INR 10 lakh) Also Read: Live Cricket Score After making 147 runs in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy, Trisha is currently playing the U23 Womens T20 Trophy, and with two U19 World Cup wins under her belt, teams will be tempted to rope in Trisha for the upcoming season. Article Source: IANS
Tharanga Weighs On Sri Lanka Captaincy Change Ahead Of 2026 T20 World Cup
T20 World Cup: Just two months before co-hosting the ICC Men's T20 World Cup, Sri Lanka may undergo a dramatic captaincy change. Chief selector Upul Tharanga has confirmed that the panel is actively looking at alternatives to captain Charith Asalanka, who is currently under pressure. Tharanga highlighted that o decision had been taken, despite Asalanka's underwhelming performance and his early withdrawal from the ongoing tri-series in Pakistan, which has sparked rumours regarding his future. We have to weigh our best options after this series, Tharanga told ESPNcricinfo when asked if Sri Lanka were contemplating a switch in leadership. With a World Cup so close we can't make a lot of big changes. The selectors, after talking to the coach, will have to make a decision on what's best for the team. Tharanga stated that Asalanka's return from Pakistan last week was not the beginning of discussions about a new captain. He disclosed that the selection of Dasun Shanaka, the former white-ball captain of Sri Lanka, as the tour's vice captain was intentional. That was to give us another option. Rumours that Asalanka's mid-series flight back to Colombo was disciplinary spread quickly, especially in light of reports that some players felt uneasy staying in Pakistan after a suicide bombing in Islamabad. However, Tharanga rejected these theories, maintaining that it was only a medical problem. Still Charith is our captain, he said. Its because of an illness to Charith that we appointed Dasun as our stand-in captain. Charith is still the captain in our plans. We haven't made a decision to change that. We've planned all along for Charith to captain this World Cup. We'll see what happens. We haven't made a decision about that yet. Explaining the situation further, Tharanga stressed that Asalankas condition made it impossible for the team to keep waiting for a recovery. He had a viral fever, and he had body aches, he told ESPNcricinfo. The physio told us that it's hard for him to predict when Charith would get better, and that's why we had to make that decision. He also pointed to the teams broader issues in the middle order. We've also had a problem in the middle order, and we've not been consistent there. If he couldnt play, we needed to have someone else there. Thats why we brought Charith to Sri Lanka. Explaining the situation further, Tharanga stressed that Asalankas condition made it impossible for the team to keep waiting for a recovery. He had a viral fever, and he had body aches, he told ESPNcricinfo. The physio told us that it's hard for him to predict when Charith would get better, and that's why we had to make that decision. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Charith is a very talented cricketer, with a lot of experience. I'm sure he'll be an important cricketer for Sri Lanka in the T20 World Cup, he said. We've seen what he can do in the middle order, where sometimes hes won games by himself. Hes in our World Cup plans. Article Source: IANS
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Parth Jindal vented his frustration after Team India lost the two-match home Test series to South Africa on Wednesday at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, calling it a complete thrashing and not remembering seeing the Test side being so weak at home. South Africa achieved a historic series sweep over India, their first in the nation in 25 years, as the hosts succumbed to another poor batting display on a worn fifth-day pitch in Guwahati. India were defeated by 408 runs, marking their heaviest loss by margin of runs at home, continuing a confusing decline that now includes five losses in their last seven home Tests after a 12-year unbeaten streak spanning 18 series. Not even close, what a complete thrashing at home! Dont remember seeing our test side being so weak at home!!! This is what happens when red ball specialists are not picked. This team is nowhere near reflective of the deep strength we possess in the red ball format. Time for India to move to a specialist red ball coach for Test cricket, Jindal, the founder and director of JSW Sports, which owns the Delhi Capitals franchise in IPL and WPL, said in a post on X. India head coach Gautam Gambhir defended the team managements decisions following the recent series loss, emphasising that all choices were made with the teams best interests in mind and that hindsight has no place in sport. He accepted collective responsibility for the defeat, stressing that accountability lies within the dressing room. Not even close, what a complete thrashing at home! Dont remember seeing our test side being so weak at home!!! This is what happens when red ball specialists are not picked. This team is nowhere near reflective of the deep strength we possess in the red ball format. Time for India to move to a specialist red ball coach for Test cricket, Jindal, the founder and director of JSW Sports, which owns the Delhi Capitals franchise in IPL and WPL, said in a post on X. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gambhir also highlighted that the loss to South Africa should not be compared with Indias 3-0 defeat to New Zealand the previous year, since that team had experienced senior players like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and Ravichandran Ashwin, all of whom have now quit the red-ball format. He noted that the current group is much younger and requires more exposure against strong opposition to develop. Article Source: IANS
Anjum Chopra Feels Sophie Ecclestone 'won't Come Cheap' At WPL Mega Auction
Anjum Chopra: Former India captain Anjum Chopra opined that England cricketer Sophie Ecclestone will earn big bucks at the inaugural Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction here on Thursday. The auction is set to feature 277 players, including 194 Indian and 83 international stars, promising an electrifying battle for talent across franchises. As anticipation builds, Anjum, alongside former India player Veda Krishnamurthy, highlighted that Englands Ecclestone and Australias Alyssa Healy are likely to dominate the auction spotlight. Speaking on JioHostar, Chopra emphasised Ecclestones value as a left-arm spinner capable of turning games, saying, Sophie Ecclestone is a true match-winner and will undoubtedly command a strong price at the auction. Given the budgets teams currently have, she wont come cheap. Most teams are likely to consider her as a key acquisition. Her left-arm spin and control make her a valuable asset. While Delhi and Mumbai Indians might not prioritise her, teams like the UP Warriorz will definitely look to use their right-to-match card on her. Even Delhi could consider bringing her on board as a strategic option. Adding to this, Veda highlighted Ecclestones consistency and all-around contributions as she stated, Ecclestone has been extremely impressive, especially in the World Cup, where she showcased why she is the top-ranked T20 bowler. In the shorter format, she brings a crucial X-factor, consistently delivering her full quota of four overs with an excellent economy rate. Additionally, she can contribute valuable runs with the bat, making her a genuine match-winner. Much like Deepti Sharma, Sophie will be a highly sought-after player by all teams in the auction. Adding to this, Veda highlighted Ecclestones consistency and all-around contributions as she stated, Ecclestone has been extremely impressive, especially in the World Cup, where she showcased why she is the top-ranked T20 bowler. In the shorter format, she brings a crucial X-factor, consistently delivering her full quota of four overs with an excellent economy rate. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, Veda also raised concerns about Healys fitness following her recent injury, saying, There is some uncertainty around Alyssa Healys fitness, as we observed during the recent World Cup that she wasnt at full strength in the later stages. She was in the process of making a comeback from injury, which raises questions about her readiness. Article Source: IANS
'I Am The Same Guy Who Got Results...': Gambhir Says His Future Is For BCCI To Decide
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Under immense pressure after suffering a 2-0 series defeat to South Africa, India head coach Gautam Gambhir said his future rests with the BCCI while pointing to the success the Indian team achieved during his tenure so far. At the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, India were bowled out for just 140 in pursuit of an improbable 549 and suffered a 408-run hammering to suffer their second home series loss after a 3-0 defeat to New Zealand last year. Gambhir's coaching is under the scanner regarding the Test team's recent poor performances, despite significant success in limited-overs formats. Under Gambhir's reign, India has played six Test series so far, winning only two, while one ended in a draw. It is up to BCCI to decide. I have said it during my first press conference when I took over as the head coach: Indian cricket is important, I am not important, and I sit here and say exactly the same thing. Yes, people can keep forgetting about it. I am the same guy who got results in England as well with a young team, and I am sure you guys will forget very soon because a lot of people keep talking about New Zealand. I am the same guy under whom we won the Champions Trophy and the Asia Cup as well. Yes, this is a team which has less experience and I have said it before as well that they need to keep learning and they are putting everything possible to turn the tide, said Gambhir in the post-match press conference. Under Gambhirs tenure, India have now lost 10 of their 18 Tests, with the 408-run loss in Guwahati being their heaviest defeat in Tests by runs. Gambhir has faced mounting criticism in recent months for his frequent chopping and changing of the playing eleven and his preference for all-rounders over specialist batters and bowlers in the longer format. It lies with everyone in the dressing room and starts with me, to everyone in the dressing room. I have said it before as well that we win together, we lose together. So I am not going to be someone who is going to say that it lies with X, Y or Z. It lies with everyone sitting in that room, as simple as it can get. That is what team sport is all about. Again, the buck should be stopping with everyone, as simple because yes, we need to apply better. At one stage, we were 95/1. I am sure you guys must be watching the game. From 95/1 to 120/7 is not acceptable and we keep talking about obviously spin, but then one seamer got four wickets in that spell and we have had these collapses in the past as well. Someone needs to put their hand up and say that I am going to stop this, whatever you call it, the collapse. For me, I think that is something that was that 30-minute spell that obviously took us away from the game as well because at one stage on day three, we were pretty much in control of the game where we were 95/1. Then from there to lose five or six wickets for nothing on the board literally was always pushing us back, he added. Gautam further rejected any similarities between the series defeats to South Africa and New Zealand at home, adding that the batters need time to settle into playing Test cricket. First of all, in the series against New Zealand, we had a very different side and this is a very different one. When you see this batting line-up against that batting line-up, the experience between the two is chalk and cheese. Someone needs to put their hand up and say that I am going to stop this, whatever you call it, the collapse. For me, I think that is something that was that 30-minute spell that obviously took us away from the game as well because at one stage on day three, we were pretty much in control of the game where we were 95/1. Then from there to lose five or six wickets for nothing on the board literally was always pushing us back, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So for me, I think that is something they will keep learning. Hopefully, they keep learning as that is important. Because I know that I hate using this word transition and this is exactly what transition is. When you have got a batting line-up which has literally played less than 15-20 Test matches, they need time to absorb pressure and have to keep getting better against quality attacks and against quality sides, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Itll Be An Epic Contest Across All Formats Against India: Beth Mooney
While Beth Mooney: While Beth Mooney is focused on the ongoing Womens Big Bash League, her mind is already racing ahead to Marchs big stage when Australia play a day-night Test against India. With just 100 days to go, the Australian batter is thinking beyond the present and eyeing opportunities for fresh faces to break into the national side. The pink-ball clash at the WACA Ground, set for March 6-9, will wrap up a high-stakes multi-format series featuring three T20Is and three ODIs. Emotions are bound to run high after Indias stunning semi-final win over Australia at the recent edition of the ODI World Cup, where Harmanpreet Kaurs side claimed their first ICC crown. I think the scary thing about India now is they've been a little bit settled for a while with their selection calls and things like that. It looks like they've got a pretty good style of play in all formats of the game, Mooney was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au. It'll be an epic contest across all formats, ending in a Test match at the WACA, which is really exciting. (The World Cup) didn't pan out how we wanted them to in that semi-final, but at the same time, we're still playing a great brand of cricket in the 50-over format, and have found our way again in the T20 format as well, so I think it'll be a really exciting series across the board, and hopefully we get plenty of fans out to see us, she added. For Australia, the series comes at a pivotal moment. The T20Is will be their first matches in nearly a year, offering a vital chance to test combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup in England in June 2026. The ODIs mark the start of a new four-year cycle in the 50-over game, a period expected to see significant squad changes. And then theres the Test. Scarce and unshackled by a championship ladder, womens Tests provide selectors with rare freedom to experiment. It could be the perfect platform to blood the next generation and build momentum for the future. For Australia, the series comes at a pivotal moment. The T20Is will be their first matches in nearly a year, offering a vital chance to test combinations ahead of the T20 World Cup in England in June 2026. The ODIs mark the start of a new four-year cycle in the 50-over game, a period expected to see significant squad changes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias multi-format tour of Australia begins on February 15 at the iconic Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG). Article Source: IANS
'Every Match Reflected Their Hunger For Glory', Says India Coach Tejeswini Of Womens Kabaddi WC Win
Kabaddi World Cup: The Indian womens kabaddi team, on Wednesday, returned to the country with much fanfare after beating Chinese Taipei in the Womens Kabaddi World Cup in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The side secured a 3528 win in the final, in what was their second straight World Cup title, further showcasing their strength in the sport. Speaking on the victory, head coach V. Tejeswini Bai shared words of praise for his team. What this team achieved in Dhaka has filled my heart with pride. The girls played with incredible heart, discipline, and determination every single match was a reflection of their hunger to bring glory to India. I was the head coach when we won the Asian Games in 2023, and the Asian Kabaddi Championship in 2025, so this is a hat-trick of wins for me. Winning a World Cup medal for the country is always special, but watching these young women rise to the moment makes it even more meaningful. As a coach, I couldnt be prouder of them, she added. Skipper Ritu Negi spoke about how important this victory was for the future of womens kabaddi in India, Lifting the World Cup for India is a feeling beyond words. As captain, I know Im only as strong as the team behind me, and this group of girls stood together through every challenge. Womens kabaddi has grown so much the competition is tougher than ever but we believed in each other till the final whistle. Chinese Taipei pushed us hard, but our unity and trust made the difference. This victory belongs to every girl who dreams of representing India one day, she added. Sanju Devi, who finished as the Player of the Tournament, lauded the teams collective effort for the win. Being named Player of the Tournament is an honour I will cherish forever, but this moment belongs to my entire team. Every raid, every tackle, every point it came from our collective fight. Womens kabaddi has grown so much the competition is tougher than ever but we believed in each other till the final whistle. Chinese Taipei pushed us hard, but our unity and trust made the difference. This victory belongs to every girl who dreams of representing India one day, she added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India dominated the tournament from start to finish, winning all their group-stage matches before defeating Iran 3321 in the semi-final to book their place in the title clash. Chinese Taipei also enjoyed an unbeaten run in their group and overcame hosts Bangladesh 2518 in the other semi-final. Article Source: IANS
SSC ground in Sri Lanka to get floodlights for men's T20 World Cup
That will open up fresh possibilities for Sri Lankan cricket with day-night Tests becoming more viable in the country
Cricket In India Isn't Just Playing Against XI; You Face A Whole Nation: Dale Styen
Former South Africa: Former South Africa fast bowler Dale Steyn praised the team's historic 2-0 Test series victory in India, calling it a landmark achievement that highlighted their collective efforts. At the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, South Africa crushed India by 408 runs in the second Test to complete a 2-0 series sweep. Simon Harmer returned with figures of 6-37 to bowl India out for just 140 in pursuit of an improbable 549, as South Africa secured their first Test series win in India in 25 years, the previous victory coming under Hansie Cronjes captaincy in 2000. Its a monumental achievement, especially considering its taken South Africa 25 years to win a Test series in India. Having toured here myself, I know how challenging it is. Its a place that pushes you out of your comfort zone. Cricket in India isn't just about competing against eleven players; its facing an entire cricket-mad nation, which tests everything from travel to conditions for any visiting team, Steyn said on JioStar. Under Temba Bavumas leadership, South Africa has built a cohesive unit with bowlers capable of taking 20 wickets in a Test and a batting line-up that relentlessly accumulates runs. While they may lack players with lofty batting averages like previous stars, this teams strength lies in collective contribution. No one in the South African squad had a poor tour; every player contributed with bat and ball. Their fielding was also outstanding, with Kyle Verreynne shining behind the stumps and with the bat. This South African team is firing on all cylinders, deserving immense respect as they capitalise on their current peak form, which they emphatically demonstrated here in India, he added. He also noted that luck and South Africas spinners being better than the Indian tweakers also played major roles in the visitors' 2-0 series win. The conditions in India remain challenging as ever. Had this been the first Test of the series, I believe it still would have been tough cricket. No one in the South African squad had a poor tour; every player contributed with bat and ball. Their fielding was also outstanding, with Kyle Verreynne shining behind the stumps and with the bat. This South African team is firing on all cylinders, deserving immense respect as they capitalise on their current peak form, which they emphatically demonstrated here in India, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South African batsmen confidently took on the Indian spinners, while bowlers like Marco Jansen adapted expertly with reverse swing and variations. The Indian side, by contrast, appeared less adaptable. Overall, the conditions remained tough, but South Africas superior execution made the difference, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
India's WTC final prospects take a hit after 2-0 loss to South Africa
They are down at No. 5 in the World Test Championship table and have plenty to do the the second half of their cycle
'Guys want to be the men for the team': Bavuma hails incredible SA achievement
Rohit Sharma Back As No. 1 ODI Batter, Starc Attains Career-high In Test Rankings
T20I Player Rankings: Rohit Sharma regained the top rank among ODI batters, while Zimbabwe's Sikandar Raza achieved the No.1 spot in the T20I all-rounders rankings for the first time in his career, reflecting his recent strong form in the latest ICC Men's T20I Player Rankings. Raza has been in excellent form for his team in the ongoing tri-series with Sri Lanka and hosts Pakistan. His latest performance was against Sri Lanka on Tuesday, where he scored a rapid 37 runs and bowled four economical overs in a nine-wicket defeat. Raza's performance was sufficient for him to surpass Pakistan's Saim Ayub in the T20I all-rounders rankings, with the 39-year-old reaching the top spot for the first time in his 13-year international career. Raza has remained in the top 10 rankings since the 2022 ICC Men's T20 World Cup, with his recent performances highlighting his consistent form in the shortest format of the game. He was recently ranked No.1 as the ODI all-rounder in September and is now second in the same category for the longer white-ball format. Ayub drops to second in T20I all-rounders rankings, while Mohammad Nawaz moves up to seventh after strong performances in the tri-series. Pakistan players continue to improve, with Sahibzada Farhan climbing eight spots to rank fourth among T20I batters, and former captain Babar Azam rising five spots to reach 29th after scoring a recent half-century. All three formats see reshuffles in the top 10 this week, including a notable change at the ODI summit, where India veteran Rohit Sharma retakes the top spot back from New Zealands Daryl Mitchell. Mitchell had to sit out the final two matches of the Black Caps' ODI series sweep over the West Indies at home, resulting in the right-hander losing valuable rating points and falling below Rohit at the top of the ODI batter rankings. The Kiwis saw some positive movements as Rachin Ravindra advanced one spot to 12th and Devon Conway climbed 11 places to 31st. Meanwhile, West Indies captain Shai Hope improved two positions to eighth after scoring an unbeaten century in the second match of the series against New Zealand. The Black Caps see their rankings improve in the ODI bowlers list, with Mitchell Santner (up one place to sixth) and Matt Henry (up one spot to joint 10th) benefiting most from their 3-0 series sweep. The latest Test rankings also show several Australian players advancing after their impressive win against England in Perth, while stars from Bangladesh are making similar progress following their victory over Ireland at home. Australia's Travis Head delivered a match-winning innings in Perth's fourth innings, helping his team secure victory. His performance earned him a four-place rise to sixth in the latest Test batter rankings. England's left-hander Ollie Pope moved up four spots to rank 24th, also making progress among Test batters. Meanwhile, Bangladesh's Mushfiqur Rahim rose seven places to 30th, Litton Das climbed eight spots to 37th, and Mominul Haque advanced eight places to tie at 46th. These updates follow their team's 217-run win over Ireland in Mirpur. Australia's Travis Head delivered a match-winning innings in Perth's fourth innings, helping his team secure victory. His performance earned him a four-place rise to sixth in the latest Test batter rankings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There is also a change near the top of the list for Test all-rounders as Ben Stokes moves up one place to second behind India's Ravindra Jadeja, while Starc gains two spots to leap to fifth. Article Source: IANS
Defeat To SA, 3-0 Loss To NZ Reflect Broader Issues Beyond Just Outcomes, Says Kumble
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Former India captain and coach Anil Kumble said the teams recent setbacks - a 2-0 series defeat to South Africa coming just a year after the 3-0 loss to New Zealand - point to deeper concerns within the Test team and that improvements are the need of the hour. At the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday, India were bowled out for 140 and lost to South Africa by 408 runs their biggest Test defeat by runs. Its also Indias fifth loss in their last seven home Tests, as South Africa clinched a Test series win in India for just the second time after 2000. The results, especially todays defeat to South Africa and the 3-0 loss to New Zealand, reflect broader issues beyond just outcomes. India appeared well-positioned in parts, but ultimately faltered. Whats needed is a different mindset for Test cricket; constant changes to the playing XI, batting orders, and frequent rotations prevent stability. While injuries and form dips are understandable, India must take time to deeply reflect, said Kumble on JioStar. With Indias next assignment coming via a two-match trip to Sri Lanka next year, Kumble felt now is the time to review the defeats and set the roadmap for improving as a Test side. With the next Test only in August 2026, there is room for thoughtful discussion on the future direction of Indian Test cricket. The retirement of several key stalwarts in recent months has created a vacuum that requires clear vision and structured planning. The team needs a strong core of experienced players to support and nurture emerging talent. Introducing too many inexperienced players simultaneously without a solid foundation wont work. A robust line-up with mostly seasoned players, complemented by one or two newcomers, is essential for sustained success. Kumble, one of the greatest leg-spinners in the game, was also left disappointed by Indias repeated batting struggles against South Africa. It was also evident from the fact that barring Ravindra Jadejas 54, none of the batters touched even the 20-run mark. Its very disappointing for India. Looking back at the four innings, the team could only bat a maximum of 83.5 overs, largely due to the resilient partnership between Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar. Kumble, one of the greatest leg-spinners in the game, was also left disappointed by Indias repeated batting struggles against South Africa. It was also evident from the fact that barring Ravindra Jadejas 54, none of the batters touched even the 20-run mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Unfortunately, this pattern has repeated itself with different bowlers, teams, and slightly varying conditions. It was a tough surface with natural wear and tear to be negotiated, but India failed to cope with these challenges, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Finch Feels explosive Travis Head Will Have More Impact In Middle-order In Pink-ball Test
Around The Wicket: Former Australia captain Aaron Finch says Travis Head should play as a middle-order batter for the day-night Test at the Gabba, even after his explosive century as a stand-in opener in Perth. Heads success at the top has put pressure on Usman Khawaja, whose ongoing back spasms forced him out of his usual opening role in both innings of the first Test. His limited time on the field, caused by Englands rapid first-innings collapse, meant he couldnt resume his spot when Head was elevated. Finch argued that the pink ball changes the equation for Brisbane and makes Head more valuable at No. 5, where his counterattacking style can shape the match. If this wasn't a pink-ball test match coming up at the Gabba, I would tend to agree and say, you know what, maybe it is time to throw him [Head] up there and you just launch into it from day one of a Test, Finch told ESPN's Around The Wicket. But I just feel as though the fact that it is a pink-ball test, the impact that that brand new ball can have and the impact that Travis Head can have batting at No. 5 when the pink ball does go a bit soft and the game can sort of, the wicket can flatten out. I like him at five still, just to be that real explosive player through the middle order, he added. If this wasn't a pink-ball test match coming up at the Gabba, I would tend to agree and say, you know what, maybe it is time to throw him [Head] up there and you just launch into it from day one of a Test, Finch told ESPN's Around The Wicket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brisbane, however, is familiar territory for him. Its his home Test and a venue where he has excelled under lights, topping the day-night first-class run charts at the Gabba with 502 runs at an average of 50.02. Article Source: IANS
2nd Test: To Beat A Very Good Indian Team Is A Hell Of An Effort, Says Harmer
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: South Africa off-spinner Simon Harmer hailed the teams emphatic 2-0 series sweep over India, calling it as a hell of an effort. On day fives play at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Harmer picked a match-winning six-for to ensure South Africa thrashed India by 408 runs. Harmer also took the Player of the Series award for picking 17 wickets at an average of 8.94 and a strike rate of 28, as South Africa got a Test series win in India after 25 years. Like I said in the last Test, it's been a long road. 10 years later, completely different feeling. Will leave with a lot more fonder memories from then. To beat a very good Indian team is a hell of an effort, said Harmer at the conclusion of the game. Asked about his six-fer in Guwahati, Harmer said, I was just watching our second innings, after 40 overs, the ball got softer and it became easier. But there was the odd-ball, the ball that Rishabh got. Its nice to contribute, to get wickets and to get a fifer in India. I think in the second innings we knew they would bat for their lives, they put hell of a fight. But we knew if we put it in the right areas, things would happen. He also lauded Aiden Markram and Marco Jansen for taking exceptional catches, as well as for skipper Temba Bavumas advice in changing his angles. Sharp catches from Markram in the slips and Jansen as well which helps. When I was bowling from that end, I felt it was a left-hander's wicket, Temba asked me to change, and it was a great decision from him, and I was happy to get the wickets. Harmer also applauded his bowling partner Keshav Maharaj for providing him ample support. Kesh's record speaks for itself, he deserves to be the number one spinner and I'm happy to play the supporting role. When given a chance, I'm happy to play the supporting role. I didn't bat well, Jasprit had my number. Another county stint with Essex, few games with the Titans that's what is next. Jansen, who had memorable all-round contributions in the match, emphasised on the collective effort behind South Africas success. Obviously, if you win any Test match, it's a nice feeling. Winning a Test match and a Test series in India is also very special. Very well done to all the guys. Everyone put their hands up in critical situations. Just everyone put their hands up when we needed them and proper team performance. We just spoke about doing the simple things very well and then just assessing the wicket and trying to figure out our plans. If we needed to change things, we needed to change things. If not, then stick to what works. He also credited head coach Shukri Conrad for improving his batting. I just give all the credit to Shukes. Shukes basically just told me to go out and play my game. Just be free, free up a little bit. The first Test, I was a bit tense - so I just went out there and tried to express myself. We just spoke about doing the simple things very well and then just assessing the wicket and trying to figure out our plans. If we needed to change things, we needed to change things. If not, then stick to what works. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, we're always trying to improve. We always see where we can get better and all those fancy stuff. But, at the end of the day, when we're on the field, we just play for each other and we just give our best. Article Source: IANS
India Slip To Fifth In WTC Standings After Series Loss Against South Africa
ICC World Test Championship: India suffered a big plunge in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 202527 standings following a 2-0 series loss against South Africa at home after losing the second Test by 408-run here at Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. South Africa wrapped up a memorable Test tour of India with a commanding victory in the second Test, sealing a 20 sweep and securing only their second-ever Test series triumph on Indian soil, the first since the landmark win in 2000. The margin of defeat was sobering for the hosts. Indias 408-run loss stands as the heaviest in their Test history, a result that also dents their early campaign in the WTC 202527 cycle. The WTC standings also take a sharp turn as the emphatic win tightens South Africas grip near the top of the points table. With 36 points from four matches, the reigning champions climbed to a 75 points percentage, strengthening their hold on second place behind Australia. India, in contrast, slipped to fifth position, overtaken by Pakistan, and their PCT dropped to 48.15. The series decider in Guwahati began uncertainly for South Africa, but Senuran Muthusamys gritty century (109) and Marco Jansens near-ton (93) transformed their first innings into an imposing 489. Jansen then carried his momentum into the bowling attack, ripping through India for figures of 6/48 as the hosts mustered only 201. Choosing rest over enforcement of the follow-on, South Africa batted again and pushed the lead beyond reach, and Tristan Stubbs composed 94 headlined their 260/5 before the declaration. Off-spinner Simon Harmer, already the star of the previous Test in Kolkata, delivered another masterclass. After taking 3/64 earlier in the match, he dismantled India on the final day to complete with a 6/37. Choosing rest over enforcement of the follow-on, South Africa batted again and pushed the lead beyond reach, and Tristan Stubbs composed 94 headlined their 260/5 before the declaration. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Aiden Markram added further gloss to South Africas performance with two outstanding catches, underscoring a disciplined fielding effort from the touring side. Article Source: IANS
The Way We Performed Here Will Grow Our Confidence Even More: Bavuma
Barsapara Cricket Ground: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma praised his teams collective effort after they secured a historic 2-0 Test series victory in India, emphasising that their performances will boost their confidence further as a team. On day five at the Barsapara Cricket Ground, South Africa secured a 408-run victory in Guwahati, with Simon Harmers nine-wicket haul and contributions from their batters helping them complete an emphatic series win, their first in India in 25 years. It's massive. For me personally, been out of the game for a couple of months with injury. Not every day you can come to India and walk away with a 2-0 series win. What's special is we had dark days as a group and it's a credit to them. There's a big shift in our mindsets in terms of what we want to do. I think our preparation is something - guys go out there looking to contribute. Anyone on their day can do it for their team - that's the belief. As a team we are really in a good space. The way we performed here will grow our confidence even more, said Bavuma at the end of the game. He also praised Harmer for turning a corner after having a disastrous series in India in 2015. That's a big thing, everyone wants to know where they stand. Guys want to be the man for their team. Everyone has contributed. We don't see big 100s but we have got 4-5 guys contributing. I can go on and on about my team but yeah. Simon has the experience of playing here in India in 2015, he complements Keshav quite well. Bit more guile with the ball, it's a struggle to take the ball out of their hands. Simon was the man for us this series. Opener Aiden Markram, who set a new record for most catches in a Test match with nine grabs, praised the teams adaptability in sub-continental conditions. It's a great feeling, great effort from everyone. It's not easy talk coming to India, in tough conditions that are foreign to us. As a group you've got to believe you can complete against the best in their backyard, with few moments of good luck along the way and bloody proud of the team. As a unit we've been pretty good to find ways to adjust to the conditions. A lot of chat was about spin, quality seamers with the new ball. It's a big test of character coming here and winning. Opener Aiden Markram, who set a new record for most catches in a Test match with nine grabs, praised the teams adaptability in sub-continental conditions. It's a great feeling, great effort from everyone. It's not easy talk coming to India, in tough conditions that are foreign to us. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He admitted opening the batting was tough, but felt the lower-order did their job well to make runs for South Africa. It was tough, to be honest and there was some grass on the wicket against quality seamers Siraj and Bumrah. The guys that came in after us showed us how to get a big score and made us proud. Article Source: IANS
We Did Not Capitalise As A Team, Which Cost Us The Series: Pant
Rishabh Pant: India stand-in captain Rishabh Pant admitted his side had been thoroughly outplayed by South Africa after crashing to a 408-run loss and a 2-0 series loss, saying the side did not capitalise as a team, which cost us the series. On day five, led by Simon Harmers 6-37, South Africa bowled out India for 140 and hand the hosts their biggest ever defeat in runs in Tests. This is South Africas second Test series win in India after their 2-0 sweep in February-March 2000 under Hansie Cronje. It's little disappointing. As a team we need to get batter. Credit to the opposition for playing better than us. They dominated the series but at the time you can't take cricket for granted. We're playing at home and sometimes we were up in the game but we didn't capitalise on them, Pant said to broadcasters at the end of the game. The wicketkeeper-batter also acknowledged that India had failed to seize key moments across the two Tests. The series defeat is also India's second home series loss in 12 months after losing 3-0 to New Zealand in 2024. It's little disappointing. As a team we need to get batter. Credit to the opposition for playing better than us. They dominated the series but at the time you can't take cricket for granted. We're playing at home and sometimes we were up in the game but we didn't capitalise on them, Pant said to broadcasters at the end of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The defeat leaves India with various questions in terms of their make-up of the Test team and their approach towards playing red-ball cricket ahead of their next assignment, which is a two-match away tour of Sri Lanka set to happen next year. Article Source: IANS
'Can't take anything for granted' - Pant rues missed chances after 2-0 clean sweep
India suffered a 408-run defeat, their biggest ever in Test cricket, in Guwahati
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Former cricketer Venkatesh Prasad did not hold back his criticism after India suffered a crushing 408-run defeat in the second Test against South Africa here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Calling it a disappointing display of tactics and skills, he expressed deep concern as India endured their biggest-ever loss at home. The last time India lost two Test series at home across two consecutive years was over four decades ago; against the West Indies (1983) and England (1984/85). Really disappointed by how India is going about Test cricket. The all-rounder obsession is absolute brain-fade especially when you dont bowl them. Rank Poor tactics, poor skills, poor body language and an unprecedented 2-0 series whitewash at home. Hope this does not get washed off with Test matches 9 months away and this negative approach changes, Prasad shared on X. Prasad stressed that while IPL performances can influence limited-overs selections, Test cricket requires consistent output in tournaments like the Ranji Trophy and Duleep Trophy. He added that relying on players with sub-40 First-Class averages or picking all-rounders merely because they offer additional batting depth goes against the fundamental principles of Test cricket. Need to play specialists and players need to be picked on the basis of Ranji, Duleep Trophy in domestic cricket. Can pick in 50 overs based on IPL performance, but for Test cricket, Ranji and Duleep trophy have to be the barometer. Yash Rathod, Shubham Sharma, Baba Indrajith , Smaran Ravichandran are names most wouldnt have heard off as they dont play IPL but consistently scoring runs in domestic cricket. Cant play sub 40 FC avg players in the Test team based on IPL performances. Playing all rounder in Indian conditions because he can bat is not the correct approach in Test cricket. Test Cricket needs specialists. We all love Indian cricket and its sad to see whats happening over the last year and a half just to somehow prove this flawed strategy right. Cant function on such egos in the interest of Indian cricket , Truly disappointing, he added. Former all-rounder Irfan Pathan said, Disappointing display of patience & technique from Indian batters. Need to get players in the test team who can play spin better. After skipper Temba Bavumas defiant 55 not out and Simon Harmers eight-wicket match haul helped the reigning world Test champions South Africa clinch their first Test win in India since 2010, the visitors sealed their historic series victory by securing a massive win in the second Test. Well done South Africa on playing outstanding cricket vs India in India. Outplayed our team in every department, Pathan said in another post. This is also South Africa's second-largest victory by margin of runs after 492 against Australia in Johannesburg, 2018, and it also set a new record for the biggest winning margin over India in Test cricket. Moreover, this is the Proteas' second Test series win in India after their 2-0 sweep in February-March 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Former off-spin great Ravichandran Ashwin was full of praise for the Proteas for their remarkable series win. Huge huge achievement for the proteas, they have put their stamp of authority and showed why they are the deserved holders of the WTC title. With a win in Guwahati, Bavuma is unbeaten in 12 Tests with 11 victories and one draw as skipper. Former off-spin great Ravichandran Ashwin was full of praise for the Proteas for their remarkable series win. Huge huge achievement for the proteas, they have put their stamp of authority and showed why they are the deserved holders of the WTC title. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Former batting stalwart AB de Villiers said, Incredible performance by every member of the team. Well done @ProteasMenCSA. Historic moment! Article Source: IANS
Harmer's six-for hands India their biggest Test defeat and seals South Africa's 2-0 sweep
His efforts handed India their biggest defeat in men's Tests, and their second whitewash at home in three series
2nd Test: South Africa Hand India Biggest Defeat To Clinch Historic Series Win (ld)
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Off-spinner Simon Harmer picked an exceptional 6-37 as South Africa completed a commanding 408-run victory over India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium to secure an emphatic 2-0 series sweep on Wednesday. Chasing 549, India were bundled out for 140 on day fives play while veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja top-scored with 54. South Africa also handed the hosts their heaviest defeat in Tests by runs, and the reigning World Test Championship winners bagged their first Test series win in India since 2000. South Africa also set a new record, registering their biggest win, by margin of runs, over India in Tests. Moreover, this is the second Test series win for the Proteas in India and first in 25 year. It was the Hansie Cronje-led side who did it first in 2000. Now Temba Bavuma joined him and kept his unbeaten Test record intact as skipper. Right from the time South Africa won the toss, everything went their way, with India now left to ponder over the questions as their fortress-like reputation when playing Tests at home suffers another significant blow after their 3-0 loss to New Zealand last year. India are now left to ponder multiple questions, as their fortress-like reputation when playing Tests at home suffered another big blow after their 3-0 loss to New Zealand last year. Resuming from 27/2, B Sai Sudharsan was dismissed by Marco Jansen but narrowly escaped when replays showed the fast bowler had overstepped, while Kuldeep Yadav received a reprieve when Aiden Markram dropped his catch at first slip. Kuldeeps nightwatchman duty ended at five when Harmers straighter delivery went through the gate to rattle the middle-stump. Three balls later, Harmer took another wicket as Dhruv Jurel looked to defend but got an outside edge and was caught by slip for two. Rishabh Pant briefly lifted the hosts with his counterattack punching Keshav Maharaj for four before dancing down the pitch to launch him for a towering six. But in a bid to defend a slower delivery from Harmer, Pant fell for 13 when extra bounce on the delivery took the shoulder edge of the bat and lobbed to slip. Harmer could have taken his fourth wicket if Markram hadnt dropped a difficult catch of Sudharsan, who became the third Indian batter to face over a hundred balls in this series, as South Africa took three wickets in the morning session. Post tea, South Africa struck early in the fifth ball of the afternoon session as B Sai Sudharsan, who battled through the morning with a defensive approach, pressed forward once more to smother the spin from Senuran Muthusamy, but failed to cover the line and edged to slip, where Markram took his eighth catch of the match. Jadeja tried delaying the inevitable by thumping and pulling off spinners for boundaries. He got his fifty in style by flicking Keshav Maharaj over deep mid-wicket for six. But South Africa continued to chip away when Washington Sundar poked at a quicker delivery, and the outside edge was taken sharply by Markram at slip, who got a record ninth catch and gave Harmer a well-deserved five-wicket haul. Harmer claimed his sixth wicket when Nitish Kumar Reddys attempted reverse sweep took the glove edge and gave the wicketkeeper a simple catch. South Africa moved to the brink of victory when Jadeja danced down the pitch against Keshav Maharaj, but was beaten in the air, and wicketkeeper Kyle Verreynne completed a swift stumping. Jadeja tried delaying the inevitable by thumping and pulling off spinners for boundaries. He got his fifty in style by flicking Keshav Maharaj over deep mid-wicket for six. But South Africa continued to chip away when Washington Sundar poked at a quicker delivery, and the outside edge was taken sharply by Markram at slip, who got a record ninth catch and gave Harmer a well-deserved five-wicket haul. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 489 and 260/5d in 78.3 overs (Tristan Stubbs 94; Ravindra Jadeja 4/62) beat India 201 and 140 in 63.5 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 54, Washington Sundar 16; Simon Harmer 6-37, Keshav Maharaj 2-37) by 408 runs Article Source: IANS
South Africa Whitewashes India 2-0 in Historic Test Series Win in Guwahati
Spinner Simon Harmer took six wickets as South Africa romped to victory by 408 runs in the second Test for their first series win in India in 25 years on Wednesday. World Test champions South Africa bowled out a dismal India for 140 in a mammoth chase of 549 on day five in Guwahati for a 2-0 Test sweep. It is India's biggest defeat at home by runs and a fifth loss in seven home Tests, having been whitewashed 3-0 by New Zealand last year. Off-spinner Harmer, 36, returned figures of 6-37 as South Africa clinched a Test series in India for only the second time, the first in 2000 under Hansie Cronje. Ravindra Jadeja resisted with 54 before Keshav Maharaj had him stumped and the spinner soon got the final wicket of Mohammed Siraj, with Marco Jansen pulling off a stunning catch in the deep. India lost the opening Test in Kolkata inside three on a pitch with uneven bounce before South Africa once again beat the hosts in their own game of spin on a batting-friendly track. .embed-container { position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%; height: 0; overflow: hidden; max-width: 100%; } .embed-container iframe, .embed-container object, .embed-container embed { position: absolute; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; } The visitors declared their second innings on 260-5 on day four to hand India a record chase but the hosts batting once again failed and they never threatened to get close. India rode their luck early in the day when Jansen had Sai Sudharsan caught behind but the delivery was declared a no-ball after the bowler overstepped. The batter was on four. In the next over another overnight batter Kuldeep Yadav survived a reprieve on four when Aiden Markram dropped him at first slip off Harmer. But the relief was short-lived for India as a relentless Harmer soon bowled Kuldeep for five for the first wicket of the day. The off-spinner then dismissed Dhruv Jurel, for two, three balls later and soon sent back skipper Rishabh Pant for 13 as India slumped to 58-5. The batters fell like nine pins on a pitch where South Africa posted 489 after they elected to bat. India were bundled out for 201 to concede a first-innings lead of 288 but South Africa did not enforce the follow-on and decided to bat again. Left-arm quick Jansen returned figures of 6-48 in India's first innings after the bowler hit a quickfire 93 with the bat. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South African all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy led the batting charge with his 109, his maiden Test century.
Ashes: Renshaw Labels Khawaja Among Australias Best Ahead Of Brisbane Test
Brisbane Test: Matt Renshaw has hailed Usman Khawaja as one of Australias greatest-ever batters, admitting that his Queensland teammate can keep him out of a Test recall. Khawaja, who battled back spasms in Perth, faces pressure to revive his career as he approaches his 39th birthday and endures a dip in form. However, Renshaw, coming off a match-winning Sheffield Shield century for Queensland against Victoria, insists Khawaja can still take on Englands aggressive pace attack in the Ashes. He's got an average over 40 in Test cricket, he's played 85 games, he's one of our best batters. He's one of the best cricketers that Australia's ever produced, Renshaw told reporters at the Australian PGA pro-am at Royal Queensland on Wednesday. Khawaja had initially been slated to represent Queensland at the pro-am, but lingering back troubles forced his withdrawal and opened the door for Renshaw to step in. The 38-year-old is now undergoing further assessment in Brisbane after experiencing an unusual bout of spasms that emerged only on day one of the match. The issue pushed Khawaja down to No.4 in the first innings, and he ultimately wasnt needed during Queenslands remarkable day-two run chase. Travis Heads blistering 123 while filling in as opener has renewed debate over whether the No.5 should shift up the order permanently. But if Australia opts to move on from Khawaja and return to a more traditional long-form opener, Renshaw appears ideally positioned. The left-hander last featured in a Test in February 2023 as a concussion substitute for David Warner during Australias dramatic collapse in Delhi. Renshaw's recent domestic form, however, has been compelling; a classy 112 under lights against Victoria at the Gabba this week added to a century and a 51 in his previous Sheffield Shield match. Travis Heads blistering 123 while filling in as opener has renewed debate over whether the No.5 should shift up the order permanently. But if Australia opts to move on from Khawaja and return to a more traditional long-form opener, Renshaw appears ideally positioned. The left-hander last featured in a Test in February 2023 as a concussion substitute for David Warner during Australias dramatic collapse in Delhi. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking of his latest Shield century, Renshaw said, I'm happy the Queensland selectors probably saw that. Knowing that we won the game for Queensland was something that was pretty special. We had a lot of people missing, we had a few guys missing in that Test squad, so knowing that as a senior batter for Queensland standing up and doing my job and getting the win at midnight on day three was pretty nice. Article Source: IANS
Govt, Authorities Take Decisions Accordingly: BJP As India-Pakistan Cricket Teams Set To Clash Again
National Spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad: As India and Pakistan are set to face each other once again on the world stage, with their highly anticipated T20 World Cup 2026 match confirmed for February 15, BJP leader Nitin Nabin on Wednesday said that sports should remain separate from politics and that the government and concerned bodies will take decisions based on policy and circumstances. Speaking to IANS, Nitin Nabin said, Sports is a separate domain. The government and concerned authorities examine the situation and take decisions accordingly. Along with sports, public sentiment is also understood and taken into consideration. JD(U) National Spokesperson Rajeev Ranjan Prasad also reacted, stating, In the Asia Cup too, both countries played against each other. This should be viewed in the spirit of sports and not connected to politics. Such events reflect a healthy mindset. JD(U) MLC Gulam Gaush added, Cricket is fine, but whenever a match takes place, it feels like war. That should not happen. Efforts must be made to improve relations. Meanwhile, defending champions India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on February 15, 2026 after opening their campaign in the group stage against minnows United States of America at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 7, 2026. India are in Group A with the Netherlands and Namibia as the other teams in the group. No country has ever defended their title in the T20 World Cup so far and hosts India will be hoping to become the first country to do so. In their remaining group stage fixtures, India will take on Namibia on February 12 in New Delhi and will round off the proceedings against the Netherlands in Ahmedabad on February 18, 2026. India are in Group A with the Netherlands and Namibia as the other teams in the group. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Matches will be played at eight venues -- the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, and MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. In Sri Lanka, matches will be played at the R. Premadasa Stadium, the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, and the Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy. Article Source: IANS
Why Australia Displays Wickets Before Runs in Cricket Scores During the Ashes?
While watching the broadcast of the Ashes Tests from Australia did you notice that cricket scores are exhibited in a different way. For example, a score of 100 runs for the loss of 3 wickets is generally written as 100-3 in most of the cricket playing countries but in Australia it shall be shown as 3-100, i.e. the wickets displayed first, instead of the runs. Why do they do so or why are they following this tradition of writing scores in reverse order? The man responsible for this Australian tradition of writing scores in the other way is former Australian cricketer Ned Gregory. He was an excellent player but remained one Test wonder after having played in the first ever Test in Melbourne in March 1877. He scored 11 runs in two innings. The Gregorys are probably the most famous family in Australian cricket. This started with David William Gregory and his two brothers Edward James (Ned) and Charles Smith joined him. David was the captain of the Australia side that defeated J. Lillywhite's English team in the first Test match, played in March 1877. Ned was also on the side. Australia batted first. Ned was out without scoring and holds the record of the first ever batsman dismissed for a duck in Test cricket. Their two other brothers played for NSW, two of Neds sons played for NSW (one being the Test cricketer Syd Gregory) and his nephew Jack Gregory also represented Australia. Ned later on became a caretaker of the Military and Civil Ground and then moved to be the first curator of the Association Ground and Sydney Cricket Ground. At SCG, in 1896, he designed and constructed the first mechanically adjustable scoreboard on the Hill. While working on this new scoreboard, he expressed his dislike for the original English scoreboard design and was of the view that it was not providing ample inside the ground information to the spectators. He took the task of re-designing the huge scoreboard, giving a variety of the information on the match. It was so big that it was beyond one the capacity of one operator to make the changes. This redesigned scoreboard changed the way of showing the score i.e. the sequence of writing wickets and runs while exhibiting total match score. This was exactly opposite of the tradition being followed in England and later on adopted by other cricket playing countries. Since the new scoreboard was providing vital information, the changes Gregory made were accepted. Once this Sydney way of showing the score was accepted, other grounds around Australia also changed their scoreboards. The broadcasters and commentators also joined them and very soon this was accepted as the Australian way of showing the match score. The format has been the same since then. Gregory's Scoreboard at the SCG, was in use from 1896 until 1905. Another scoreboard was used from 1905 to 1924. The third scoreboard in the SCG's history was built in 1923 and was in use until 1983. During all these replacements of the scoreboard at the SCG, the same layout was retained i.e. wickets first, runs second. A single mans idea changed the tradition of showing the score. On the issue of famous scoreboards at the SCG, it may be added that the last manually operated scoreboard was in use until 1983. This scoreboard, designed by Robertson and Marks and built in 1923, stood for 60 years at the top of the Hill at the ground's eastern end. Thereafter it was replaced by an electronic scoreboard. The old scoreboard in the meantime had earned the status of an historic and heritage item. Thats why it was not dismantled but removed and kept behind the Doug Walters Stand until 2006, with just the top of it visible. The late cricketer and broadcaster Bill O'Reilly lamented its passing. How sad, he would say, that such a great structure which had borne the names of so many greats of the game, from Bradman to Benaud to Border, was now hidden behind the Doug Walters stand, ignored and forgotten. The SCG heritage office also admitted that the Robertson and Marks scoreboard is 'ultra significant' in the history of the ground. Even when it wasn't in use, it played a role. It has been a silent witness to many modern-day events here since 1983. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It was decided to dismantle it in 2006 under the supervision of the SCG Trust and moved to a warehouse in Surry Hills before being shifted again to Western Sydney. It was one of the most recognisable features of the ground.
Indias ODI World Cup Winners Poised To Have Big Payday In 2026 WPL Mega Auction
ODI World Cup: While the euphoria of Indias historic Womens ODI World Cup triumph in Navi Mumbai still energises fans, the aftermath has sparked a shimmering windfall. The championship-winning Indian team members are featured in high-profile endorsements for various products, invited to numerous universities for thought-provoking speeches, appear as special guests on talk shows, and are seen sporting radiant smiles on various posters. Hence, it wont come as a surprise if the 2026 Womens Premier League (WPL) mega auction, set to be held in New Delhi on Thursday, sees several World Cup-winning players earn a big payday. With several World Cup-winning players back in the pool, all five franchises will be devising strategies to secure these marquee players and then set the stage for them to command premium pay checks. Among the ten World Cup-winning members in the auction pool, Deepti Sharma (base price of Rs. 50 lakh) and Renuka Singh Thakur (base price of Rs. 40 lakh) are listed in the marquee set. Deepti, who was the Player of the Tournament in both the ODI World Cup and WPL 2025, will draw the attention of all teams. While her previous franchise, UP Warriorz (with the highest purse of Rs. 14.5 crore) still holds four Right-To-Match (RTM) options, Deeptis consistent match-winning performances will ensure that she wont be a cheap buy at the auction. Kranti Gaud, Deeptis teammate at UPW in WPL 2025 and a World Cup winner, will also attract interest from many teams, thanks to her rare skill set: being a capped India fast bowler. Left-arm spinner N Sree Charani, the second-highest wicket-taker for India in the World Cup win, will also attract massive bids after previously being a steal buy for Delhi Capitals, who enter the auction with the least purse (Rs. 5.7 crore). Other World Cup winners who will keep teams interested are Renuka Singh Thakur, Harleen Deol, Sneh Rana, Radha Yadav, Uma Chetry, Arundhati Reddy, and Pratika Rawal (assuming she has recovered sufficiently from the ankle injury that sidelined her from the World Cup knockouts). The auction will feature a total of 277 players going under the hammer to fill 73 slots including 23 reserved for overseas players. It is also understood that the five franchises are likely to spend more on batters, pacers, or overseas all-rounders to strengthen their batting and bowling options. The accelerated phase in the auction will begin after player number 68. Teams will be asked for their choice of players and names will be duly called out. In all, a lot of the players who got released will get picked, said a WPL insider to IANS. Apart from Deepti and Renuka, the marquee set features several high-profile names, including Meg Lanning, Alyssa Healy, Sophie Ecclestone, Laura Wolvaardt, Sophie Devine, and Amelia Kerr, ensuring intense bidding battles among teams for these proven match-winners. Outside the marquee set, players of significant interest include Nadine de Klerk, Pheobe Litchfield, Kiran Navgire, Alana King, Jess Jonassen, Georgia Voll, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, and Kashvee Gautam, who has just returned to action via the ongoing U23 T20 championship after a six-month layoff. The interest in players like Prathyusha Challuru and Anuja Patil, who have previously played for India and performed on the domestic circuit, will also be notable in franchise discussions. Regarding the teams' needs at the auction, two-time champions Mumbai Indians possess a well-rounded batting line-up led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, complemented by proven all-rounders such as Hayley Matthews, Nat Sciver-Brunt, and Amanjot Kaur, along with uncapped wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini. They could target an experienced keeper-batter behind the stumps to add depth. Although Yastika Bhatia has registered for the auction, it will be interesting to see if MI buy her back, considering she has had an ACL surgery. MI's priority will be strengthening the bowling attack with specialised options and securing key Indian spin bowlers. The 2024 champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, are expected to target a big-hitting opener to partner captain Smriti Mandhana at the top, while also prioritising the acquisition of an experienced seamer, including the possibility of bringing back Renuka, to strengthen their bowling unit. Among overseas options, Laura and Georgia are seen as strong candidates to support Smriti at the top. The franchise holds a Right-To-Match card for an uncapped player, which could be used to re-acquire leg-spin all-rounder Prema Rawat, who broke into the India A setup this year. Three-time runners-up Delhi Capitals are clearly aiming for a solid opener to partner Shafali Verma, while their retained players, Jemimah Rodrigues and Niki Prasad, along with pace-bowling all-rounders Annabel Sutherland and Marizanne Kapp, provide balance in the middle order. DC is expected to focus on strengthening its spin department and adding an experienced wicketkeeper. If DC doesnt buy back Meg, they could select either Alyssa or Laura, both of whom not only fill the opening slot but also stand out as strong captaincy contenders. Gujarat Giants, who reached the WPL playoffs for the first time this year, have three RTM cards available, though they can use them to buy back three Indian players after retaining the Australian duo of Ashleigh Gardner and Beth Mooney. In that case, Harleen, Kashvee, Priya Mishra, and Tanuja Kanwer emerge as likely options to buy back through RTM. At the mega auction, GG will also prioritise strengthening its lower order by purchasing experienced Indian batters and bolstering a bowling attack that was somewhat vulnerable last season. Meanwhile, UP Warriorz enter with a near blank slate and the largest purse, giving them considerable flexibility to rebuild after finishing at the bottom of the table last season. With batting inconsistencies and a misfiring bowling unit still fresh in memory, UPW may focus on acquiring experienced Indian players and securing overseas match-winners, while also seeking a new captain. In that case, Harleen, Kashvee, Priya Mishra, and Tanuja Kanwer emerge as likely options to buy back through RTM. At the mega auction, GG will also prioritise strengthening its lower order by purchasing experienced Indian batters and bolstering a bowling attack that was somewhat vulnerable last season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As the focus is sharply on the mega auction floor and franchises arrive with their strategies to secure marquee names, the stage is set for newly crowned World Cup winners and other high-profile players to attract record bids. This highlights the leagues growing stature and the rising value of World Cup-winning players in the cricketing world. Article Source: IANS
Finch: Head at No. 5 best fit for pink-ball Test
Michael Clarke expects Usman Khawaja to be in the XI for Brisbane providing he is fit
2nd Test: Harmer Picks Three As SA Reduce India To 90/5 At Tea
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: South Africa strengthened their grip to win the second Test as off-spinner Simon Harmer struck thrice, leaving India reeling at 90/5 in 47 overs at tea on day fives play at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Chasing a historic 2-0 series sweep, South Africa took three wickets in the session and now sit just five away from victory with two sessions remaining. B Sai Sudharsan has faced 138 balls for 14 runs and has been engaging in a blockathon. Ravindra Jadeja (23 not out) has also contributed to a fightback against the Proteas, but Indias chances of survival remain slim in terms of saving the game. However, the session belonged to South Africa and Harmer, who delivered a masterclass in flight, guile, and subtle variations to become the leading wicket-taker in the series. In the morning, Sudharsan was dismissed by Marco Jansen but narrowly escaped when replays showed the fast bowler had overstepped, while Kuldeep Yadav had a reprieve when Aiden Markram dropped his catch at first slip. Kuldeeps nightwatchman duty ended at five when Harmers straighter delivery went through the gate to rattle the middle-stump. Three balls later, Harmer took another wicket when Dhruv Jurel looked to defend but got an outside edge and was caught by slip for two. Rishabh Pant briefly lifted the hosts with his counterattack hammering Keshav Maharaj for four, before dancing down the pitch to launch him for a towering six. But in an attempt to defend a slower delivery from Harmer, Pant was dismissed for 13 when extra bounce on the ball took the shoulder edge of the bat and lobbed to slip. Kuldeeps nightwatchman duty ended at five when Harmers straighter delivery went through the gate to rattle the middle-stump. Three balls later, Harmer took another wicket when Dhruv Jurel looked to defend but got an outside edge and was caught by slip for two. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 489 and 260/5d in 78.3 overs (Tristan Stubbs 94; Ravindra Jadeja 4/62) lead India 201 and 90/5 in 47 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 23 not out, B Sai Sudharsan 14 not out; Simon Harmer 4-23, Marco Jansen 1-16) by 459 runs Article Source: IANS
India Going To Take Blueprint From Manchester Draw For Saving The Game, Says Ten Doeschate
South Africa: India will look to draw inspiration from their resilient draw against England at Manchester this year in their aim to save the ongoing second Test against South Africa, said assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate ahead of day fives play. In their chase of 549, India ended day fours play by losing openers KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal and are facing a mammoth task to avoid losing their second home Test series in two years. That's the blueprint for saving a game. There's going to be a lot of important factors today. I think the mentality is going to be top of that list. We've seen where the threat is from mainly in the first four days, obviously Jansen's bounce and the ball does spin. So the technical and tactical part of it's there, but I think mostly the mentality of the players today is going to be the most important aspect we bring, said ten Doeschate to broadcasters ahead of day fives play. Asked on the chatter in the team ahead of day fives play, ten Doeschate said, It's been brutal. South Africa have been very good and we're miles behind the game. But somehow we've managed to get an opportunity to save the game and the fifth day is going to be crucial in securing a draw. Quizzed on how India have been left behind in the game, ten Doeschate replied, I think a variety of factors. I think South Africa have played it perfectly getting to this position. Obviously the toss is important. They batted superbly well for two days. I thought we bowled well for two days, but couldn't bowl them out. Then unfortunately a below par batting performance in the first innings now means we have all the work to do on the fifth day. Quizzed on how India have been left behind in the game, ten Doeschate replied, I think a variety of factors. I think South Africa have played it perfectly getting to this position. Obviously the toss is important. They batted superbly well for two days. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So firstly, getting to that first hour is going to be super important. But I think it's going to be a challenge all day. Like I said, the boys are going to have to really apply themselves to save this game. Article Source: IANS
Virat Kohli was spotted at the Mumbai International Airport. He playfully engaged with the paps and also posed for photos with them. Virat, who has often refrained from interacting with the paparazzi around the world, stopped for a quick photo session at the Mumbai Airport after meeting fans and greeting the paps.
ICC Chairman Jay Shah: As the full schedule for the 2026 edition was revealed at a glamorous ceremony in Mumbai, ICC Chairman Jay Shah stated on Tuesday that the return of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup to the subcontinent would spark unmatched passion throughout India and Sri Lanka Co-hosts On February 7, India will play the United States on a big night at the Wankhede Stadium to start their title defense. This will set up an exciting opening day that will also include former champions Pakistan and the West Indies in Kolkata and Colombo, respectively. It is wonderful to welcome the ICC Mens T20 World Cup back to the subcontinent so soon after a groundbreaking Womens Cricket World Cup. The passion for cricket in this region is unmatched, and fans have been waiting eagerly for another global spectacle, Shah said, while presenting the fixtures. The announcement of the fixtures brings us a step closer, and I have no doubt that the five venues in India and three in Sri Lanka will be alive with energy throughout the tournament. The T20 format continues to drive the sports global expansion and will be showcased at the LA Olympics in 2028. With that in mind, the 2026 edition will capture the imagination of millions. One can already picture the electric atmosphere at the Narendra Modi Stadium when the champions lift the trophy on 8 March. The worlds largest cricket venue the Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad has been earmarked to host the final, while eight venues across the two host nations will stage matches: Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai), MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chennai), Arun Jaitley Stadium (New Delhi), Eden Gardens (Kolkata), the SSC and R. Pallekele (Kandy) and Premadasa Stadium (Colombo). Twenty teams will be split into four groups of five in the tournament, which will have the same structure as in 2024. Predetermined seedings will determine which two of each group advance to the Super Eights. Group A: India, USA, Namibia, Netherlands, Pakistan Group B: Australia, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, Ireland, Oman Group C: England, West Indies, Bangladesh, Italy, Nepal Group D: South Africa, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Canada, UAE All Group B matches featuring Sri Lanka will be hosted exclusively on Sri Lankan soil. Pakistan will also play all their group games in Sri Lanka. Venue swaps have been built into the knockout phase: if Pakistan make the semi-finals or final, Colombo will replace pre-assigned Indian venues. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta, speaking at the launch, said the 2026 World Cup would usher in a new era of global, marquee cricketing events. The ICC Mens T20 World Cup is expected to usher in a new era of global, marquee Cricketing events, both in terms of the athletic spectacle and fan experiences on offer, Gupta said. We have seen six different champions in less than two decades of the tournaments history, which demonstrates the competitive nature of the competition. With 20 teams from 5 continents vying for the title in Crickets most unpredictable format and the tournament returning after a decade to its biggest market, this promises to be a feast for Cricket fans around the world. The ICC, along with its partners, are committed to delivering unmatched immersive experiences to widen and deepen fandom for the sport. Newly appointed ICC Brand Ambassador and Indias 2024 title-winning captain Rohit Sharma said being associated with the event again felt special. I have the good fortune of winning this tournament two times and can say from experience that each win in this tournament is a special one, Rohit said. I won the title in 2007 as a youngster and then lifted it as captain in 2024, but it is not just the final that I remember with as much fondness. Many other matches also stand out to me with equal fondness. Suryas brilliant catch that won us the match against South Africa in Barbados last time, Virats knock against Pakistan in Melbourne in 2022, and Yuvrajs six sixes against England in Durban in 2007 are some of the most exhilarating moments ever on a cricket field. I have the good fortune of winning this tournament two times and can say from experience that each win in this tournament is a special one, Rohit said. I won the title in 2007 as a youngster and then lifted it as captain in 2024, but it is not just the final that I remember with as much fondness. Many other matches also stand out to me with equal fondness. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India and Sri Lanka will host the T20 World Cup for the second time after staging the event in 2016 and 2012, respectively. India (2007, 2024) and England (2010, 2022) remain the only multiple-time champions, while Pakistan (2009), Sri Lanka (2014), and Australia (2021) complete the list of past winners. Article Source: IANS
Quetta Gladiators, Karachi Kings, Islamabad United renew PSL ownership deals
Owners of the three franchises confirm they will continue working with the PCB for next ten years
I Am Always Available For Advice, Rohit Sharma Tells Indian Team Ahead Of T20 World Cup 2026
ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta: He may have retired from the shortest format of international cricket, but the only player to figure in all nine editions of the T20 World Cup wants to contribute to the Indian team's preparations by imparting the wisdom he has gleaned in a career spanning 15 years. Rohit Sharma, who led India to their second T20 World Cup title in 2024 in the USA and Caribbean after first winning it as a player in 2007, on Tuesday said he will discuss things with some of the players from the T20 side when he meets them during the upcoming ODI series against South Africa. I keep meeting all these guys (India T20 players); I'm still playing. I'm going to go to Ranchi (for ODIs against South Africa) and meet some of these guys there who are going to be part of the T20 setup, Rohit said during a panel discussion also involving India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav and Women's World Cup-winning skipper Harmanpreet Kaur with ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta at an event in Mumbai at which the sport's global governing body revealed the full schedule of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026. Rohit said the players always discuss things between them and will try to get into the players' mindset during the conversations. There's always a conversation that happens between the players, and I am somebody who likes to talk, discuss and get into their mindset a little bit and understand what they are thinking, said the white-ball cricket legend, the only player to hit three double hundreds in ODI cricket. Rohit said he is always available to dispense advice whenever approached. There's always a conversation that happens between the players, and I am somebody who likes to talk, discuss and get into their mindset a little bit and understand what they are thinking, said the white-ball cricket legend, the only player to hit three double hundreds in ODI cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But again, these guys are having a great run of late. I don't think there's much that needs to be changed. (But) The final prep will be just around when they play New Zealand. That's when they should try and get their playing XI or their (squad of) 15 in mind, he added. Article Source: IANS
Would Love To Win T20 World Cup By Beating Australia In Final In Ahmedabad: Suryakumar Yadav
T20 World Cup: Till a few years back, every Indian cricketer and fans would love to see the country win an ICC tournament by beating Pakistan in the final. The scenario has changed now and India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav on Tuesday said in an ideal situation, he would love to lift aloft the Men's T20 World Cup 2026 by beating Australia in the summit clash. Asked by the host to pick a team that India would like, in a hypothetical situation, to overcome in the final to lift the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, Surya named Australia. If it is the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad and the final, I would like India to beat Australia and win the title, said Surya at the event got up by the ICC to unveil the full schedule of the upcoming T20 World Cup to be jointly-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. The burgeoning rivalry between India and Australia apart, the other reason that SKY wants India to meet Australia in the final of the T20 World Cup is that he wants to exact revenge for India's defeat to the Kangaroos in the final of the Men's ODI World Cup 2023 at the same venue. Harmanpreet Kaur, who recently spearheaded India to the Women's ODI World Cup title in the nearby Navi Mumbai also wanted India to beat Australia to lift the title. She said the recently developing rivalry between India and Australia makes it an exciting contest and winning against a strong team gives a different pleasure. Harmanpreet Kaur's Indian women's team had defeated Australia in the semifinal before going on to overcome South Africa in the final to win the Women's ODI World Cup last month. However, Rohit Sharma, who captained India in the 50-over World Cup final defeat to Australia in 2023 but went on to guide the team to triumph in the T20 World Cup in 2024, said he wants India to win the title, whichever the opposition. I agree with Surya when he says the rivalries have changed and also that beating Australia in the final would be ideal but my wish is for India to win the title, the opponent could be anyone, said Rohit Sharma, who was unveiled as the ICC Brand Ambassador for the event on Tuesday. However, Rohit Sharma, who captained India in the 50-over World Cup final defeat to Australia in 2023 but went on to guide the team to triumph in the T20 World Cup in 2024, said he wants India to win the title, whichever the opposition. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harmanpreet Kaur talked about her experience of winning the title at home and hoped the men's team would also go on an do the same. She said her team benefitted a lot from the support of the fans when it had landed in a Cup 2025 after losing three matches in a row. The fans have always supported us at home and it was nice to see so many people coming out to watch the women's team play, she said. Article Source: IANS
World Cup-winning Blind Women Cricketers An Inspiration For Entire Nation: Sports Minister
Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya: The Minister of Youth Affairs & Sports Dr Mansukh Mandaviya felicitated the members of the Indian womens cricket team at his residence on Tuesday for their recent victory in the inaugural Blind Twenty20 World Cup. The Indian womens team defeated Nepal by seven wickets in the final played in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Sunday and remained undefeated throughout the tournament. The tournament featured six teams - India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Australia and the United States of America. The blind cricket teams victory came closely on the heels of the Indian women teams first-ever ICC Cricket World Cup victory on home soil. The Indian womens team defeated Nepal by seven wickets in the final played in Colombo, Sri Lanka, on Sunday and remained undefeated throughout the tournament. The tournament featured six teams - India, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Australia and the United States of America. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Acknowledging the sentiments, Deepika TC, captain of the Indian team said: I feel extremely happy and honoured for the fact that our Honble Sports Minister invited us at his residence for felicitating us. It was lovely interacting with him. His words will encourage not only us but more women from the blind community to take up sports as a career and make the country proud with their hard work and determination. Article Source: IANS
Jadeja targets moral victory as India fight to avoid whitewash
They are 27 for 2, chasing an all-but-impossible target of 549, as they head into the final day of the series in Guwahati
India To Meet Pakistan On Feb 15 As ICC Reveals Full Schedule Of T20 World Cup 2026 (Ld)
Defending champions India will take on arch-rivals Pakistan at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on February 15, 2026 after opening their campaign in the group stage against minnows United States of America at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on February 7, 2026. India are in Group A with the Netherlands and Namibia as the other teams in the group. No country has ever defended their title in the T20 World Cup so far and hosts India will be hoping to become the first country to do so. In their remaining group stage fixtures, India will take on Namibia on February 12 in New Delhi and will round off the proceedings against the Netherlands in Ahmedabad on February 18, 2026. This will be the biggest T20 World Cup in the history of the game so far, as for the first time, 20 teams will be in the fray. The 20 teams will play 55 matches in all across eight venues in India and Sri Lanka from February 7, 2026:, ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta announced in Mumbai on Tuesday as the ICC revealed the full schedule of the tournament in the presence of ICC Chair Jay Shah, two-time T20 WC winner Rohit Sharma, India T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav, newly crowned Women's ODI World Cup winner Harmanpreet Kaur and cricket administrators from India and Sri Lanka. Matches will be played at eight venues -- the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi, the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai, and MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. In Sri Lanka, matches will be played at the R. Premadasa Stadium, the Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, and the Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy. The 20 teams have been divided into four groups of five teams each. Two teams from each group will qualify for the Super 8 stage. While the focus will be on India and Pakistan in Group Apicked as the Group of Death by the event's Brand Ambassador Rohit Sharma, the Netherlands and USA, who stunned Pakistan in the previous edition in 2024, can always cause an upset or two. Group B puts Sri Lanka in a potentially challenging conflict with Australia, Ireland, Zimbabwe, and Oman. Australia's first match is against Ireland, while Zimbabwe's return to World Cup action begins with a high-profile match against the co-hosts. Group C, which includes Bangladesh, first-time qualifiers Italy, and Nepal, is led by two-time champions England and the West Indies. As early as February 11 in Mumbai, England will play the West Indies. Italy's participation, which is their first in the tournament, gives it a historic feel. Group D, which is arguably the hardest of the four, includes Afghanistan, South Africa, and New Zealand, the 2024 semifinalists. Canada and UAE complete the line-up, but the spotlight will firmly be on the heavyweight clashes, especially South Africa vs Afghanistan and New Zealand vs South Africa, both set for Ahmedabad. The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Eight stage, split into two groups of four. From there, the top two in each Super Eight pool advance to the semifinals before the March 8 final determines the 2026 champion. Rohit Sharma, who has played in every edition of the T20 World Cup so far, winning titles in the inaugural edition in 2007 and in 2024, said it was heartening to see so many countries playing in the T20 World Cup. It shows that our spot is growing, said the event's ICC Brand Ambassador Rohit Sharma. The top two teams from each group will progress to the Super Eight stage, split into two groups of four. From there, the top two in each Super Eight pool advance to the semifinals before the March 8 final determines the 2026 champion. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India's T20 captain Suryakumar Yadav termed the event challenging and said his teammates are excited to be playing at home. Article Source: IANS
2026 T20 World Cup: Rohit Sharma Named Tournament Ambassador
T20 World Cup: Former India captain Rohit Sharma the man who lifted the Mens T20 World Cup trophy in 2024 has been named the tournament ambassador for the 2026 edition, to be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka. This appointment represents a fitting transition into a new role for a player whose T20I resume shines with records, milestones, and memories. One of the most important players in the format, Rohit ended his T20I career with 4231 runs at an average of 32.01 and a strike rate close to 141. From a brilliant 20-year-old who entered the first T20 World Cup in 2007 to an experienced leader who masterminded India's eagerly anticipated victory in 2024, his legacy is woven into the very fabric of the competition. Announcing Rohit Sharma as ambassador of T20 World Cup 2026, ICC chairman Jay Shah posted, Its my honour to announce that @ImRo45 is the tournament ambassador for the upcoming @T20WorldCup in India & Sri Lanka. There can be no better representative for the event than the winning captain of the 2024 T20 World Cup, and a player who has been in all nine editions so far, Shah posted on Instagram. Days into his international career in 2007, Rohit displayed the bravery that would later come to define his style. In the tournament, he amassed 88 runs without being dismissed, scoring a vital 30* against Pakistan in the tense final and a composed, undefeated 50 against South Africa in the Super Eights. A young Rohit gave a glimpse of a bright future as India raised the trophy. In 2024, seventeen years later, he led a team seeking redemption and an ICC title that had eluded the men's team for more than ten years. Leading from the front, Rohit scored 257 runs at a strike rate of 156.70, frequently giving India the upper hand during the PowerPlay. One of the tournament's pivotal innings was his 92 off 41 balls against Australia in the Super Eights, a blazing declaration of dominance. His half-century against England in the semi-final set the stage for Indias march to glory. And once India sealed the trophy, Rohit bowed out of T20Is on the highest possible note, leaving behind a void and a legacy. In 2024, seventeen years later, he led a team seeking redemption and an ICC title that had eluded the men's team for more than ten years. Leading from the front, Rohit scored 257 runs at a strike rate of 156.70, frequently giving India the upper hand during the PowerPlay. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I wish all the players the very best and hope they have a memorable time and enjoy Indias hospitality while taking back a lot of memories. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: India grouped with Pakistan, England with West Indies
The ICC released the schedule on Tuesday, with the tournament less than three months away
Erin Osborne appointed Somerset Women head coach
Former Australia allrounder signs three-year contract to succeed Trevor Griffin
South Africa: South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad gave an honest and striking explanation for his team's late declaration: they wanted India to spend as much time on their feet as possible and be forced into a long, exhausting chase in the waning light. An hour into the final session, the Proteas declared after extending their second-innings lead to 548, leaving India with a near-impossible target and just 15.5 overs left before stumps on Day 4 of the Guwahati Test. South Africa have not won a Test series in India since 2000. Conrad used the famous grovel comment made by former England captain Tony Greig during the 1976 series against the West Indies to support the strategy. Although this comment inspired the Caribbean team, it was used here to explain South Africa's choice. And then, obviously, we wanted the Indians to spend as much time on their feet out in the field, we wanted them to really grovel, to steal a phrase, bat them completely out the game, and then say to them Come and survive on the last day and an hour this evening, Conrad said after play. So, so far so good, but we also know that they're not just going to roll over, we're going to have to be at our very best in the morning. Conrad emphasized that cricket logic and match awarenessparticularly the benefit of bowling in the evening shadowswere the main reasons for the delayed declaration. We obviously looked at how best we were going to use the new ball, because in the morning we still wanted a newish, hardish ball, he explained. What we felt is that when the shadows come across the wicket in the evening, there's something in it for the quick bowlers, so we didn't want to declare too early and not be able to use that. The Proteas believed they had earned the right to set terms because South Africa was already ahead 1-0 in the two-Test series and India had very little chance of chasing down even 418, the all-time fourth-innings record. The visitors have dominated the Guwahati Test from the opening day, and Conrad underlined the significance of pressing for a 20 sweep. I don't think there's a right and a wrong in anything, he said. We wanted India to come out again after lunch and spend time on their feet. We saw the effects of batting for two full days in the first innings and what sort of effect it had on them. And it was never going to be easy for the opening batters to come this evening, with the new ball and shadows across the wicket. We felt we could have struck there. He added that South Africa were chasing a decisive series result, not merely protecting their lead. If tomorrow evening comes and we have them eight down and people say, Well, see, you told you so we've got to base it on our sound judgement and if that doesn't work out, it doesn't. I don't think there's a right and wrong in any of this but obviously, 2-0 is a lot better than 1-0. I'd like to think that the series is secured and we're going to go all out for the win. Conrad acknowledged that the pitch had stayed remarkably good for batting well into the fourth day, but he is still optimistic that South Africa's diverse attack can defeat India once more. Id like to think that tomorrow Marco and the spinners can do the job. We're going to give it our best shot, he said. India were dismissed in 83.5 overs thanks to Marco Jansen's steep bounce, which earned him 6 for 48 in the first innings. However, for once, South Africa's strategy throughout the subcontinent revolves around its spinners. Id like to think that tomorrow Marco and the spinners can do the job. We're going to give it our best shot, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For the first time, we've thrown our weight behind spin bowlers, Conrad said. We've got quality spinners that can mix it with the best in the world and I believe we've got the balance of our sides right. Article Source: IANS
'Wanted them to really grovel' - SA coach Shukri Conrad on keeping India on the field
SA coach explains the rationale behind batting deep into the fourth day and keeping India on the field in Guwahati
Appeal dismissed after agent is banned for five years for corrupt approach to county coach
Moghees Ahmed had his registrations as an agent suspended by the ECB in March
Zimbabwe opt to bat in bid to make tri-series final; SL make two changes
Sri Lanka, who handed a debut to Pavan Rathnayake, must win to remain in tri-series final contention
2nd Test: Anil Kumble Pinpoints KL Rahuls surprising Guard Choice As India Stare At Steep Chase
Analysing Yashasvi Jaiswal: As India fell to 27/2 in pursuit of a massive 549 set by South Africa, former India cricketer Anil Kumble delivered a scathing critique of KL Rahul's dismissal on Day 4 in Guwahati, calling it surprising and avoidable given the match situation. Facing an improbable fourth-innings target, Indias openers had no respite. Marco Jansen removed Jaiswal for 13 in the seventh over, and Simon Harmer struck three overs later to send back Rahul, whose attempt to play across the line ended with his stumps castled. I think it was a fantastic delivery by Simon, no doubt. But KL went for the shot without getting to the pitch of the ball, Kumble said, stressing that Rahuls stance and guard choice left him vulnerable. Because of the revolutions Simon Harmer puts on the ball, he got a bit of dip, and the line was perfect. Generally, on a fourth- or fifth-day pitch with enough rough, you tend to cover all three stumps because LBW is unlikely from that angle the impact is usually outside off-stump. Thats why I was a bit surprised. Rahul was forced to reach out and play away from his body because his center-stump guard was still exposed, as Kumble noted. He did take centre-stump guard, but his off-stump was still visible. Ideally, if you stand on middle-and-off, you can reach the ball comfortably or defend it. But standing on middle-and-leg exposes the off-stump and forces you to reach for the ball, which brings short-leg into play. Otherwise, you have to play off the back foot. Maybe it was a lapse in concentration. He thought it was drivable, but the ball dipped, credit to Harmer. He looked to drive and ended up falling to a perfect off-spinners dismissal. South Africa ended their innings at 260/5 after Tristan Stubbs commanding 94, stretching the lead to 549 before Temba Bavuma declared. The Proteas had earlier built the day on solidity upfront, moving from 26/0 to 58 before Ravindra Jadeja triggered a brief Indian fightback by removing Ryan Rickelton (35) and Aiden Markram (29). Washington Sundar added the wicket of Bavuma to reduce the visitors to 107/3. But Tony de Zorzi and Stubbs rebuilt with poise and authority, combining strike rotation with boundary-hitting to drain the life out of Indias effort. De Zorzi fell lbw to Jadeja for 49, but Stubbs continued unfazed, guiding the side past the 500-run lead alongside Wiaan Mulder. South Africa added 113 runs in the post-tea session for the loss of just one wicket, prompting the declaration shortly after Stubbs fell six short of a deserved hundred. Dale Steyn examined India's top-order decline and the constant pressure from the visitors' bowlers on a day when South Africa set the rules from beginning to end. Analysing Yashasvi Jaiswals dismissal, Steyn credited Marco Jansen for setting him up with sustained hostility. Washington Sundar added the wicket of Bavuma to reduce the visitors to 107/3. But Tony de Zorzi and Stubbs rebuilt with poise and authority, combining strike rotation with boundary-hitting to drain the life out of Indias effort. De Zorzi fell lbw to Jadeja for 49, but Stubbs continued unfazed, guiding the side past the 500-run lead alongside Wiaan Mulder. South Africa added 113 runs in the post-tea session for the loss of just one wicket, prompting the declaration shortly after Stubbs fell six short of a deserved hundred. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He explained the technical flaw that contributed to Jaiswals downfall. Thats why he sometimes drags the ball back onto his stumps or edges it. As it pitches, it often straightens instead of going across, and thats how it finds the edge either side of the bat leading to bowled, caught in slips, or caught behind. Its his go-to shot, and breaking that instinct is tough. When you see the ball in your zone, you go for it. But maybe its something he needs to consciously cut down on. I remember Sachin once removed the drive from his game in Australia. Jaiswal may also need to say, Unless its in a specific area, I wont play it. In this area, Ill trust my defence. Article Source: IANS
Adelaide Strikers pip Brisbane Heat in final-ball WBBL thriller
Wolvaardt and Beaumont's fifties paved the way for a tense finish
2nd Test: Wasn't An Overs Thing, More About The Time, Says Stubbs On SAs Late Declaration
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: South Africas standout performer Tristan Stubbs reflected on his crucial knock after narrowly missing out on a century on Day 4 of the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. The young batter, who top-scored with a composed 94, admitted he felt a little bit disappointed at falling short of the three-figure mark, but remained satisfied with the teams commanding position. With South Africa firmly in control, many anticipated an early declaration on the fourth day. Instead, the visitors extended their innings beyond a 500-run lead to give Stubbs time to reach his milestone. The 25-year-old looked set for a memorable hundred, but was dismissed six runs short, prompting skipper Temba Bavuma to immediately declare the innings at 260/5, setting India a daunting 549-run target. Asked after stumps by the presenters whether the near-miss frustrated him, Stubbs responded, Little bit, but they're two down now, so we'll take that. Explaining the timing of the declaration, Stubbs clarified that it was dictated by conditions rather than overs remaining. (The declaration) Wasn't an overs thing, it was more about the time. We had 40 minutes after lunch. Thought I'll give it (the hundred) a go and then when Jadeja came on, that was the last over, so I thought two hits is my best shot, he added. Asked after stumps by the presenters whether the near-miss frustrated him, Stubbs responded, Little bit, but they're two down now, so we'll take that. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As the match heads into the final day, India require 522 runs to pull off an improbable chase, while South Africa need eight wickets to seal a 2-0 series victory. Article Source: IANS
We Need To Improve Our Batting: Raina On India's Struggles In Home Tests
World Test Championship: Former all-rounder Suresh Raina has urged Indian batters to apply themselves better as the home side faced heavy criticism following their 30-run loss against South Africa in Kolkata. India failed to chase a paltry target of 124 in the fourth innings to suffer a defeat against the World Test Championship holders. With the second Test also heading to the same result as India's flop show with the bat continues, Raina advised batters to rectify their mistakes and support the team's cause. We need to improve our batting as we are losing matches successively. Players need to apply themselves better as it will uplift their self-belief, and it is very important for them and the team, Raina told IANS on Tuesday. Despite being 0-1 down in the two-match series, India were bowled out for 201 in their first innings in Guwahati after South Africa posted a mammoth total of 489. The visitors added 260 runs to their scoreboard in the second innings before declaring the innings on Tuesday to post a target of 549 against India. India had a sub-standard start in the second innings too, with the home side losing both openers - Yashasvi Jaiswal (13) and KL Rahul (6) - before stumps on Day 4. India are still 522 runs behind to avoid a second series sweep in two years. The veteran batter added that the team's other struggles also unfold when they start losing matches, and the same is the case with the Indian Test team, which is without their regular captain, Shubman Gill, who is nursing a neck injury. India had a sub-standard start in the second innings too, with the home side losing both openers - Yashasvi Jaiswal (13) and KL Rahul (6) - before stumps on Day 4. India are still 522 runs behind to avoid a second series sweep in two years. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India have a herculean task of surviving the whole day on Wednesday to draw the match and avoid a whitewash. Article Source: IANS
2nd Test: India Down To 27/2 In Chase Of 549 At Stumps
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: India closed Day 4 at 27/2 at stumps after South Africa set the hosts a daunting target of 549 runs here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. The Proteas maintained complete control throughout the day, stretching their dominance through disciplined batting and a standout 94 from Tristan Stubbs, eventually declaring at 260/5. Marco Jansen continued his top form from the previous innings and got his side the crucial breakthrough early at the start of the final innings as he dismissed Yashasvi Jaiswal in the seventh over. The opening batter walked back after scoring 13 runs off 20 deliveries, leading to B Sai Sudharsan joining KL Rahul on the crease. However, the second-wicket partnership didnt last long as Simon Harmer joined the celebrations to dismiss Rahul in the 10th over. He attempted to play it by closing his bat across the line, but missed entirely, and the stumps were rattled. With both openers dismissed, India faltered further. Rahul lunged to meet the ball but erred by crossing the line and the ball's dip, and the drop beat him, leading to an inside edge. With India sending in Kuldeep Yadav as the nightwatchman, the spinner comfortably saved his wicket till the end of the session and remained unbeaten alongside Sudharsan. The day began with South Africa resuming at 26/0, with openers Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram looking composed as they extended the score to 58. However, Indias spinners soon found breakthroughs. Ravindra Jadeja was the first to strike, dismissing Rickelton for 35 after the batter attempted an overly aggressive shot. Jadeja then removed Markram for 29 with a sharply turning delivery, signalling Indias fightback. Washington Sundar supported Jadeja well with a disciplined and intelligent spell, varying his pace subtly to curb South Africas run flow. His efforts were rewarded when he removed captain Temba Bavuma, who flicked a straightforward catch to leg slip. Although India missed a few run-out chances, their energy in the field kept South Africa from running away with the game early in the session. By tea, the visitors had reached 107/3, suggesting a balanced contest. However, the partnership between Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs shifted momentum again. The duo combined restraint with aggression, regularly finding boundaries and rotating the strike effectively. Their confident stroke play made it seem as though they were batting on a friendlier surface than the one India had struggled on. Zorzis authoritative sweeps and Stubbs controlled shot-making gradually drained Indias earlier enthusiasm. After tea, Jadeja trapped de Zorzi lbw for 49, ending a crucial stand, but the breakthrough did little to slow South Africas progress. Stubbs continued untroubled, bringing up a composed fifty. Joined by Wiaan Mulder, he pushed the lead beyond 500 runs while India searched unsuccessfully for additional wickets, even turning to part-timer Yashasvi Jaiswal. South Africa added 113 runs in the session for the loss of just one wicket, tightening their grip on the match. However, the partnership between Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs shifted momentum again. The duo combined restraint with aggression, regularly finding boundaries and rotating the strike effectively. Their confident stroke play made it seem as though they were batting on a friendlier surface than the one India had struggled on. Zorzis authoritative sweeps and Stubbs controlled shot-making gradually drained Indias earlier enthusiasm. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 489 & 260/5d in 78.3 overs (Tristan Stubbs 94, Tony de Zorzi 49; Ravindra Jadeja 4/62) lead India 201 & 27/2 in 15.5 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 13, KL Rahul 6; Simon Harmer 1-1, Marco Jansen 1-14) by 521 runs. Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Iyer Starts Training Post Surgery
Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala: India batter Shreyas Iyer has resumed training after a serious spleen laceration suffered during the third ODI against Australia on October 25, when he landed awkwardly on his left side while attempting a diving catch. Initial scans in Sydney revealed internal bleeding, and he was immediately admitted to the hospital, spending time in the ICU under close monitoring by BCCI and local medical specialists. Doctors performed a minor surgical procedure to stop the bleeding, after which his condition stabilised. Iyer was discharged earlier this month but remained in Sydney for follow-up assessments before returning home. He later reassured fans that he is getting better every passing day. In a positive update on his recovery, Iyer posted an Instagram story showing himself on an exercise bike, indicating his return to training. Since returning home, Iyer had been under the regular medical supervision of Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala. The middle-order batter was not selected for the upcoming white-ball series against South Africa, scheduled to start on November 30. Medical experts estimate a minimum two-month layoff, given the seriousness of spleen injuries, which can pose hidden risks because the organ plays a role in filtering blood and supporting immune function. The middle-order batter was not selected for the upcoming white-ball series against South Africa, scheduled to start on November 30. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Iyer, who will miss the eight-match white-ball series against South Africa, is likely to be fit for the home five-match T20I series against New Zealand in January next year. Article Source: IANS
Connolly helps take Western Australia to draw
The washed out opening day meant time was always short for a result and WA batted through the final day
Warwickshire retire Birmingham Bears monicker for revamped T20 Blast
ECB announce fixtures for men's and women's competitions in 2026, in new two-month window
2nd Test: Stubbs' 94, Zorzi's 49 Help South Africa Set India Target Of 549 Runs
World Test Championship: India found moments of success through Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar, but South Africa continued to command proceedings on Day 4 of the second Test, courtesy of a brilliant 94 by Tristan Stubbs as the youngster's knocked helped the team stretch their lead to over 500 runs and eventually declaring at 260/5 to set India a target of 549 runs. The day began with the visitors resuming at 26/0, and openers Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram looking assured as they raised the score to 58 before Indias spinners made their impact. Rickelton, who benefited from early luck, was dismissed for 35 while attempting an aggressive shot, handing Jadeja his first breakthrough. The left-arm spinner struck again soon after, removing Markram for 29 with a sharp turn that troubled the batters throughout the morning. Washington Sundar complemented Jadeja superbly, bowling a disciplined spell with subtle variations in pace that kept South Africas scoring in check. His persistence paid off when he removed captain Temba Bavuma, who flicked a simple catch to leg slip. Despite a few missed run-out opportunities, India looked energetic in the field and kept the visitors progress steady rather than free-flowing. At 107/3 by tea, the session appeared evenly balanced as Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs steadied the innings, combining caution with calculated aggression. Both batters found regular boundaries and shifted momentum again in South Africas favour heading into the second session. De Zorzi and Stubbs batted with purpose, sweeping, cutting, and rotating strike as if playing on a surface entirely different from the one tormenting India. Every boundary struck through the gaps felt like a reminder: South Africa were not just surviving, they were progressing. Zorzis sweeps scythed through the leg side with authority, while Stubbs absorbed pressure before unleashing strokes that drained Indias early energy. After tea, Jadeja trapped de Zorzi lbw just shy of a half-century. Yet even that wicket felt like a pause rather than a shift. Stubbs marched on to his fifty, unhurried and unbothered, as Wiaan Mulder joined him to push the lead past 500 with quiet confidence. With four sessions remaining in the match, the Proteas showed no inclination to declare early, adding 113 runs in the second session for the loss of just one wicket. India even turned to part-timer Yashasvi Jaiswal for an over, but South Africas control remained unchallenged. At lunch, South Africa had moved to 220/4 in 70 overs, firmly on top as India faced a huge scare. As Stubbs approached a century, the Proteas continued their batting innings after lunch, despite many expecting a declaration. The young player entered the nervous nineties, and South Africa watched to see if he could reach 100 before the declaration. However, as soon as he was dismissed, Bavuma indicated the batters to come back in, thereby closing their innings at 260/5 and setting the hosts a massive 549-run target. At lunch, South Africa had moved to 220/4 in 70 overs, firmly on top as India faced a huge scare. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 489 and 260/5d in 78.3 overs (Tristan Stubbs 94, Tony de Zorzi 49; Ravindra Jadeja 4/62) lead India 201 all out in 83.5 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 58, Washington Sundar 48; Marco Jansen 6-48, Simon Harmer 3-64) by 548 runs. Article Source: IANS
Scotland, Thailand Players Gain Big In Latest T20I Rankings
T20I Player Rankings: Big gains for a host of players from Scotland and Thailand have come courtesy of strong performances at the ICC Womens Emerging Nations Trophy, with leading performers in Thailand climbing the latest ICC Womens T20I Player Rankings. Young Scotland all-rounder Darcey Carter has stood out as one of the dominant early-tournament performers, earning significant advancements in the updated rankings for T20I batters at just 20 years old. Carter has collected a trio of Player of the Match performances, having contributed three consecutive half-centuries, and the right-hander gains a whopping 35 places to improve to 36th overall on the list for T20I batters. Australia left-hander Beth Mooney maintains a narrow lead at the top of the batting charts, with Carter among the eye-catching improvers up the list following her efforts at the Emerging Nations Trophy event. There are also gains on the list for T20I batters for Papua New Guinea veteran Pauke Siaka (up 15 spots to 65th) and Netherlands right-hander Sterre Kalis (up eight spots to 70th), while a host of players have made ground on the updated rankings for T20I bowlers. While Australia's Annabel Sutherland holds the No.1 spot at the top of the bowler rankings, a host of players at the Emerging Nations Trophy event have made some ground on her following the first three days of the tournament. There are also gains on the list for T20I batters for Papua New Guinea veteran Pauke Siaka (up 15 spots to 65th) and Netherlands right-hander Sterre Kalis (up eight spots to 70th), while a host of players have made ground on the updated rankings for T20I bowlers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies star Hayley Matthews remains at the top of the T20I all-rounder rankings, with Carter (up 26 rungs to 27th) and Siaka (up 28 spots to 36th) among the biggest movers this week. Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Tom Moody Suggests Australia Replace Nathan Lyon With Specialist Batter For Gabba Test
ODI World Cup: Former Australian all-rounder Tom Moody has made a bold call for Nathan Lyon to be dropped ahead of the second Ashes Test in Brisbane. The off-spinner, 38, is just one wicket shy of matching Glenn McGraths 563 Test dismissals, but Moody believes conditions will favour an all-pace attack. Speaking on Wide World of Sports, Moody argued that selectors should tailor the side to what is expected to be a seam-friendly Gabba pitch. Lyon had minimal impact in the Perth Test, where Australias fast bowlers dominated during two days of high-intensity cricket. A few hard decisions need to be made...and my personal view is I wouldn't play Lyon. I never thought I'd see the day where you don't play a specialist spinner in a Test match in Australia, but with day-night cricket, it's hard to get the spinner into the contest, Moody said. The second part to that is, the way England play, it's very hard to get the spinner into the game...because they don't tend to bat for long periods of time. I think Australia would be better having someone like (Beau) Webster taking Lyon's spot and (as a result) lengthening the batting order, the two-time ODI World Cup winner added. England suffered a heavy defeat in the opening Ashes Test as Travis Heads blistering 69-ball century propelled Australia to an extraordinary two-day victory in Perth. Heads 123, the second-fastest Ashes hundred in history, powered Australia to a chase of 205 in just 28.2 overs, sealing an eight-wicket win and a 1-0 series lead. The second part to that is, the way England play, it's very hard to get the spinner into the game...because they don't tend to bat for long periods of time. I think Australia would be better having someone like (Beau) Webster taking Lyon's spot and (as a result) lengthening the batting order, the two-time ODI World Cup winner added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In response, Australia dominated as Head dismantled Englands attack, turning the contest into a procession. The emphatic finish denied the match a third day and left England searching for answers ahead of the day-night Test in Brisbane starting December 4. Article Source: IANS
'No fight, no plan': Bird and Bell sink New South Wales to innings defeat
The last wicket pair survived 28 overs to take the game to the final session before Riley Meredith's pace finished the game off
WPL 2026: Anjum Chopra Feels GG, DC, UPW Could Bid For Deepti Sharma At Mega Auction
ODI World Cup: With the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction fast approaching, franchises are sharpening their strategies, and the focus is firmly on two of Indias most dependable talents - all-rounder Deepti Sharma and batter Harleen Deol. Discussions on JioHotstars special show Most Wanted: WPL 2026 Auction highlighted how both players are set to be among the most sought-after names when the bidding begins. Former India captain Anjum Chopra stressed that Deeptis versatility makes her one of the most valuable picks in this years auction, saying, Gujarat Giants should definitely consider Deepti Sharma in the mega-auction. Delhi Capitals might also target her as an Indian player who strengthens both batting and bowling. UP Warriorz could be the third team interested after Gujarat and Delhi in acquiring her services. She also expressed surprise over the Gujarat Giants decision to release Harleen Deol, who has been a consistent performer for the franchise. I am surprised Gujarat Giants released Harleen Deol. She's a multi-talented Indian player who can also bowl a bit, and I hope she develops her bowling skills further. She'll command good interest in the auction. Along with Deepti Sharma, she'll be one Indian player every franchise will target because teams want strong Indian batters and potential leadership options, Chopra added. She also expressed surprise over the Gujarat Giants decision to release Harleen Deol, who has been a consistent performer for the franchise. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With both players entering the auction pool at the peak of their careers, teams are expected to engage in intense bidding wars. As strategists look to build strong Indian cores capable of shaping the teams title-winning campaigns, Deepti and Harleen stand out as two of the biggest storylines ahead of the auction. Article Source: IANS
'Historic Win', Says BJP After Felicitating Blind Women's T20 Cricket Team
T20 Cricket World Cup: The BJP on Tuesday felicitated India's Blind Women's T20 Cricket team in Bengaluru for its historic win against Nepal. The Indian team's victory in the Blind Women's T20 Cricket World Cup is a truly historic achievement, said Karnataka BJP chief and MLA B. Y. Vijayendra. Commending the Indian team for its winning streak throughout the series, he said this success was made possible through hard work, teamwork and commitment. In a post on the social media platform X, he said, Members of the Indian team, who created history by winning the inaugural Blind Women's T20 World Cup and brought glory to the nation, were felicitated with heartfelt congratulations and pride in Bengaluru today. The entire country is celebrating India's achievement, as the team secured a thrilling seven-wicket victory against Nepal in the final to claim the world champions' title. Every member of the team has overcome physical challenges to deliver a historic win for the nation and has showcased to the world the strength and confidence of India's women in sports. Their extraordinary determination is not only exemplary but also a great source of inspiration to all, Vijayendra stated. It is a matter of pride for all Kannadigas that the team's captain, Deepika, who led the team successfully and instilled motivation and confidence in her players, grew up here in Karnataka, the BJP leader said. Similarly, Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, President of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) and a former cricketer himself, who played a key role in this victory, was also honoured along with the team, Vijayendra stated. It is a remarkable achievement and will give greater confidence and a brighter future to all our sportspersons with disabilities, Vijayendra stated. Notably, India clinched the inaugural Blind Women's T20 Cricket World Cup with a commanding seven-wicket win over Nepal in the final, marking a historic milestone for the country. It is a remarkable achievement and will give greater confidence and a brighter future to all our sportspersons with disabilities, Vijayendra stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Captain Deepika T.C., who hails from Karnataka, has been particularly lauded for her leadership and composure. Article Source: IANS
How the Gabba Test pitch will perform under lights
The Sheffield Shield match ended late on day three with Queensland players saying the twilight period was key
The Untold Love Story Behind the Birth of the Ashes: Ivo Bligh and Florence Morphy
The Ashes is crickets most storied rivalry, born from a mock obituary in 1882 mourning the death of English cricket. But behind the famous urn lies a lesser-known tale of romance and destiny. When England captain Ivo Bligh travelled to Australia vowing to bring back the Ashes, he returned not only with the tiny terracotta urn but also with a bride. His quest for cricketing redemption unexpectedly became a love storyone of the most charming and overlooked chapters in the history of the Ashes. As far as the origin of Ashes is concerned, the most acceptable story is that after the shocking defeat of English team against Australia at the Oval in August 1882, a mock obituary was printed in The Sporting Times newspaper lamenting the `death' of English cricket, ending with NB: The body will be cremated, and the ashes taken to Australia. When an English team visited Australia later that year, the captain, Ivo Bligh had said that he had come to bring back the Ashes. That led a young group of ladies in Sydney to present him a tiny, terracotta urn believed to contain the ashes of a burnt cricket bail, after Englands win. This is the story of the aristocrat Ivo Bligh and how he fulfilled his quest for the Ashes. Ivo Blighs team lost the first Test before England bounced back with victories at Melbourne and Sydney. There is a love story behind all this, which finds no place in the history of the Ashes contents. Bligh brought home not only the Ashes but also a bride, Florence Morphy. She was working as a governess in Melbourne and was among those who presented Bligh with the urn. Another record: Bligh is the only England captain who proposed his lady love for marriage during a Test match. So, the birth of the Ashes revolves around a love story. Ivo Bligh was the son of a British aristocrat. After reading the mock obituary on the 'death' of English cricket, he made efforts to arrange for a tour to Australia during the winter (to satisfy his quest for bringing back the Ashes). The first batch of England cricketers, including the captain, sailed. One of the passengers on the ship was Sir William Clarke, president of the Melbourne Cricket Club, and his second wife Janet. Bligh and Janet became friends, although she was twice his age. The terracotta urn, which is now the Ashes, was given by her (she had bought it from Italy). At Melbourne, Clarke arranged for their stay at his mansion. The house had a new governess, very beautiful, 19-year-old Florence Morphy of Irish ancestry. She was the seventh and youngest child of a gold commissioner and police magistrate in Beechworth. Bligh fell in love with her at the first sight and tried his best so that she remained around him. Janet very soon realised Blighs love for Florence. She had no objection to it but was afraid of the difference of status between both. Janet also warned him that if he is simply attracted towards a pretty face then its better to forget everything. The England captain proposed to Florence on the New Years Eve of 1883 and the Melbourne Test was still in progress. Ivo returned to England, seeking his parents nod to marry Florence Morphy. The Clarkes arranged the marriage and the two got married at St Marys Church in Sunbury. The love story ended with the bride going off with the dashing English sportsman. So, Florence Rose Morphy became the Hon Mrs Ivo Bligh (later the Countess of Darnley) after winning the Englishman's heart. As per Florence, the original contents of the urn were the ashes of a veil. Janet used to wear chiffon scarves because of wind and at Melbourne a pair of them would have been used to prepare the Ashes, for an awards ceremony. The Gatehouse of Rupertswood mansion with a sign showing the origin and birthplace of the Ashes, is still there. Now the big question is whether the urn contains bails or veil? The personal notes of Bligh family reveal that when England had won by 69 runs at Sydney, Bligh returned to Rupertswood, carrying two of the bails used in the decider Test and presented them as a memento. One of the bails, converted into a penholder, is at the Lords Museum and is placed next to the urn. The MCC does not allow the analysis of the contents of the urn. In 1998, the 82-year-old daughter-in-law of Bligh claimed that the contents of the urn were not the Ashes of a bail, but the remains of her mother-in-laws veil. With time, Florence overshadowed her husband in the social scene. She tried her hand with reasonable success as an amateur painter. She later on became a successful romantic novelist. Ivo became the 8th Earl of Darnley in 1900.During the First World War, the couple converted their house Cobham Hall into a hospital for injured Australian servicemen. In 1919, their war efforts were recognised and Florence Bligh, Countess of Darnley, was made a Dame of the British Empire. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ivo Bligh died in his sleep in April 1927 at the age of 68. On his death, the urn containing the Ashes was handed over to MCC by Florence.
Josh Hazlewood Back Bowling In Big Ashes Boost For Australia
Injured pace spearheads Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins bowled in the nets on Tuesday in a major boost for Australia ahead of the day-night second Ashes Test against England next week. Hazlewood had not been seen since tweaking his hamstring in a Sheffield Shield clash six days before the opening Test in Perth. He missed that extraordinary game, which Australia won inside two days by eight wickets on Saturday, with Brendan Doggett taking his place. Skipper Cummins was also absent with a lingering lower back injury, replaced by Scott Boland. Local media posted pictures of both men training at Cricket NSW headquarters in Sydney during New South Wales' Sheffield Shield match against Tasmania. The choice of balls they used was telling, with Cummins steaming in with a pink ball and Hazlewood more reserved with a red one. While Hazlewood remains a major doubt for the Brisbane Test on December 4, Cummins said over the weekend he was half a chance after an impressive stint in the nets in Perth. Australia coach Andrew McDonald told reporters no decisions would be made until closer to match day. I know that he'll be available at some point during the series, McDonald said of Hazlewood. We've got a little bit of that early rehab to go through to formulate where he may plug into the series, but we expect him to take some part in the series. He was more upbeat about Cummins. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There's a lot of positives, but now it's just really building that resilience within the soft tissue and making sure that we're not putting him in harm's way in terms of accelerating it too much, he said.
2nd Test: Jadeja, Sundar Among Wickets As South Africa Reach 107/3 At Tea
Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Team India displayed brilliance on the field as they managed to pick three crucial wickets in the first session of Day 4 of the ongoing second Test against South Africa here at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. The pitch provided significant assistance to the spinners as Ravindra Jadeja and Washington Sundar made merry. After opening spells from Jasprit Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj fell out of favour for India, the hosts were quick to introduce the spinners into the attack, and the move worked. While there were a few missed run-out chances through the opening session, the fielders performances looked promising as the hosts looked focused on restricting the visitors to as low a total as possible. While the Indian spinners kept striking at regular intervals, Tony de Zorzi and Tristan Stubbs took South Africa to 107/3 at tea. 32 overs were bowled in the session that looked evenly poised, as the Proteas scored 81 runs while losing three wickets. To start the day, South Africa openers Ryan Rickleton and Aiden Markram looked calm and controlled as they began Day 4 with ease and took their overnight score of 26-0 to 58/1 before the former was dismissed. The Proteas made steady progress through the morning, with most of the early scoring coming from Rickelton, who enjoyed some fortune on his way to 35 before falling to Jadeja while attempting a big shot. The pitch showed no signs of deterioration in the first session, offering little cause for concern. Washington Sundar bowled an impressive spell in the first hour of play, cleverly adjusting his pace and operating noticeably slower than usual to keep the scoring in check. It did not take long for Jadeja to strike again as he knocked over Markram, utilising the sharp grip and turn on offer to the best of his ability. The pitch showed no signs of deterioration in the first session, offering little cause for concern. Washington Sundar bowled an impressive spell in the first hour of play, cleverly adjusting his pace and operating noticeably slower than usual to keep the scoring in check. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa 489 and 107/3 in 40 overs (Ryan Rickelton 35, Aiden Markram 29) lead India 201 all out in 83.5 overs (Yashasvi Jaiswal 58, Washington Sundar 48; Marco Jansen 6-48, Simon Harmer 3-64) by 395 runs. Article Source: IANS
2nd Test: Ashwin Raises Concerns Over India's body Language
The South African: Former India cricketer Ravichandran Ashwin hoped for India to stage a comeback in the second innings of the ongoing Test against South Africa, but also expressed concern over a negative result for the hosts by criticising their body language on the field. Team India finished Day 3 with trouble mounting as the Proteas delivered a superb performance across departments to dominate the Test. The South African bowlers dismantled Indias batting attack and initiated a collapse as Marco Jansens six-wicket haul led to the visitors walking out to bat again for their second innings. As the play resumed on Day 4, Ashwin expressed concerns, saying that the teams body language on the field doesnt indicate positive signs. I really hope we can bounce back while batting in the 2nd innings, but the indications on the field with respect to body language, Ashwin wrote on X. South Africa dominated Day 3 of the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, tightening their grip on the match and the series. After opting not to enforce the follow-on, the visitors reached 26/0 by stumps, extending their overall lead to 314 runs, with openers Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram remaining unbeaten. Their commanding position was built on Marco Jansens outstanding all-round performance, headlined by a six-wicket haul that dismantled India for 201. India had slipped from a promising 95/1 to 121/7, undone largely by Jansens relentless short-ball attack, supported by spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer. South Africa dominated Day 3 of the second Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, tightening their grip on the match and the series. After opting not to enforce the follow-on, the visitors reached 26/0 by stumps, extending their overall lead to 314 runs, with openers Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram remaining unbeaten. Also Read: Live Cricket Score His efforts, along with his earlier 93 with the bat, marked one of the finest visiting all-round performances in India. With the visitors having a substantial lead, they are poised to push for quick runs on Day 4, aiming to bat India out of contention, secure the series, and collect crucial World Test Championship points. Article Source: IANS
Washington Sundar Says His Batting Position Doesnt Matter If mindset Is Clear
Washington Sundar: Ahead of Day 4 of the ongoing second Test between India and South Africa, all-rounder Washington Sundar mentioned that the frequent changes in his batting position do not bother him much, as long as he maintains a positive mindset that he will perform and get a chance to play. Sundars batting position has been questioned by several experts and pundits of late as he was slotted in the middle order for the second Test after playing at No. 3 in the first game in Kolkata. Before the play commenced on Tuesday, Dinesh Karthik, while conversing with Sundar, asked, I've seen you've been pushed and pulled around a little bit in the batting order. How do you prepare for each of the batting slots that you're fitting into? The 26-year-old had a very positive response to the question as he said, I think in that case, I've just kept my mindset to one thing as to this is how I'm going to play, no matter what situation or what position that I'm put into. And that way, I think I have a lot more clarity and I'm more calm as well. And end of the day, it's just an opportunity for me to play out there and spend a lot of time out there in the middle. So, I think it's just a massive opportunity every time I go out there for me. The Proteas threatened the hosts in the second Test as well and continued to stand tall, holding a hefty lead of over 300 runs. The visitors bowled out India on Day 3 and got on with their second batting innings, looking to post a big target for the hosts to chase. India, meanwhile, will need to restrict South Africa to as low a total as possible in the second innings to maintain their hopes of winning the Test and concluding the series on a victorious note, especially after their heartbreaking loss in the opening game. The Proteas threatened the hosts in the second Test as well and continued to stand tall, holding a hefty lead of over 300 runs. The visitors bowled out India on Day 3 and got on with their second batting innings, looking to post a big target for the hosts to chase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pick wickets and also bowl really well and tight. I mean, can't really give away a lot of runs, especially in the first session. Bowl really tight and obviously pick up wickets, and you never know what can happen, especially with the batting lineup you've got, Sundar said. Article Source: IANS
Hazlewood returns to training, Cummins arms himself with pink ball
The fast bowling duo were in the nets in Sydney on Tuesday as focus turns to the second Ashes Test
Bartlett, Sandhu dismantle Victoria under Gabba lights as pink-ball wickets tumble
The Sheffield Shield leaders were blown away in the night session after Bartlett had also made vital runs
India and Pakistan to play on February 15 in men's T20 World Cup
ESPNcricinfo has learned that USA, Namibia and Netherlands are the other teams in the India-Pakistan group
Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe, 5th T20I- Who will win today SL vs ZIM match?
SL vs ZIM , 5th T20I , Cricket Tips :The T20I tri-series is heading towards the final as Pakistan have already booked a place in the final. The fifth game will see a contest between Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe, and this match will virtually determine the second finalist. This game will be held at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The action will start at 6:30 PM IST on Tuesday. Zimbabwe have won one game out of three played in this tri-series. That one win came against Sri Lanka only. Meanwhile, the Islanders have lost one game each against both opponents and are searching for their maiden win. SL vs ZIM: Match Details Date : November 25, 2025 (Tuesday) Time : 6:30 PM IST Venue : Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium SL vs ZIM: Live Streaming Details In India, fans can tune into the Sports TV YouTube channel to catch the action of the SL vs ZIM T20I on Tuesday. SL vs ZIM: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 10 Sri Lanka : 07 Zimbabwe : 03 No - result / Tied : 00 SL vs ZIM: Ground Pitch Report The surface at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has proved to be spin-friendly. Bowlers have had more to bowl with. Fast bowlers are getting swing with the hard ball. However, as the game goes on, the pitch gets slow, and spinners are getting grip. There has been some dew as well in the evening. SL vs ZIM: Possible XIs Sri Lanka : Kusal Mendis (wk), Pathum Nissanka, Dasun Shanaka (c), Kamil Mishara, Kusal Perera, Kamindu Mendis, Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Dushmantha Chameera, Eshan Malinga, Vijayakanth Viyaskanth Zimbabwe : Tadiwanashe Marumani, Brian Bennett, Brendan Taylor (wk), Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, Tony Munyonga, Tashinga Musekiwa, Tinotenda Maposa, Brad Evans, Richard Ngarava, Wellington Masakadza SL vs ZIM: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Pathum Nissanka has been the match-winner with the bat for Sri Lanka in the last year or so. For Zimbabwe, a lot will depend on how Brian Bennett gives them the start. Probable Best Bowler Brad Evans has the most wickets for Zimbabwe, and he is taking wickets every time he comes to ball. For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga is the key. His four overs can change the situation. Today Match Prediction : Sri Lanka had two poor games but they are the better side bewteen the two. Hence, we predict Sri Lanka to win this game on Tuesday. SL vs ZIM Match 5th T20I, Today Match SL vs ZIM, SL vs ZIM Prediction, SL vs ZIM Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Sri Lanka vs Zimbabwe Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Khelo India University Games: Launchpad For Future Olympic Champions, Says CM Sharma
Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal: Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma said the Khelo India University Games are being held across seven divisions of Rajasthan, bringing together young athletes from across the country. He emphasised that these games are more than just competitionsthey mark the beginning of many athletes dreams, with the potential to shape future Olympic champions. Speaking at the inaugural ceremony of the Khelo India University Games at Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Monday, Sharma said that sports teach the values of struggle, perseverance, and resilience, enabling individuals to face lifes challenges fearlessly. Quoting Swami Vivekananda, he urged the youth to arise, awake, and conquer the nation and the world. He added that while India once longed for medals, under Prime Minister Modis leadership, the country has gained global respect in sports. Citing the recent victory of the Indian womens cricket team in the World Cup, he said daughters are proving they are second to none. Highlighting the state governments efforts, Sharma announced a Sports Life Insurance Scheme that will provide life and accident insurance to international medal winners. Rajasthan has also launched its own Target Olympic Podium Scheme, inspired by the central governments initiative, to support elite athletes preparing for global competitions. He said the government has decided to allot land to Dronacharya Award-winning coaches, similar to the benefits given to Arjuna Awardees. Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore (Retd.) said that since 2014, Prime Minister Modis leadership has led to transformative changes in Indian sports. He said the 12-day Khelo India University Games in Rajasthan will help youth achieve new milestones through discipline and determination. He praised the Chief Minister for giving Rajasthan new momentum across education, sports, industry, and the energy sector. He said the government has decided to allot land to Dronacharya Award-winning coaches, similar to the benefits given to Arjuna Awardees. Youth Affairs and Sports Minister Colonel Rajyavardhan Rathore (Retd.) said that since 2014, Prime Minister Modis leadership has led to transformative changes in Indian sports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya said that the vision of a Viksit Bharat (Developed India) is shaping the nations sporting future. Article Source: IANS
Grand And Heartfelt Welcome Accorded To World Cup-winning Indian Womens Blind Cricket Team
T20 World Cup Cricket: In a moment of immense national pride and celebration, the Indian womens cricket team for the blind, led by the Chairman of Cricket Association for the Blind in India, Dr. Mahantesh G Kivadasannavar returned to India, on Monday after creating history by winning the first ever Womens T20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind 2025 in Colombo. The Indian team defeated Nepal in the final to lift the title in the inaugural Women's World Cup for the Blind. This landmark victory has not only elevated Indias standing in the global blind cricket community but has also inspired millions across the country. The victorious team arrived in Bangalore via Chennai, where they were greeted with overwhelming warmth, applause, and admiration. At both airports, the atmosphere was electric, filled with cheers, the crowd waving Tricolour flags, and emotional celebrations as supporters, officials, and onlookers came together to honour the champions, who have brought unprecedented glory to the nation. In Chennai, the team received a rousing and enthusiastic welcome, reflecting the admiration and respect they have earned through their grit, determination, and exceptional sporting spirit. As the team made their onward journey to Bengaluru, the celebration only grew louder and more vibrant. Upon their arrival in Bangalore, the players were welcomed with elation by the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Karnataka, marking the states deep commitment to promoting inclusive sports and recognising extraordinary talent. The heartfelt gestures and warm reception underscored the governments pride in the teams achievements and their role in shaping the future of blind cricket in India, and as a tribute to the visually impaired women in making India the pioneer of inclusion through sport. The celebrations continued at Kempegowda International Airport, where the players were felicitated by the dedicated staff of IndiGo Airlines and Bengaluru International Airport (BIAL). The airport premises came alive with applause, floral greetings, and special acknowledgements, symbolising the nations collective joy in welcoming home its world champions. Upon their arrival in Bangalore, the players were welcomed with elation by the Department of Youth Affairs and Sports, Government of Karnataka, marking the states deep commitment to promoting inclusive sports and recognising extraordinary talent. The heartfelt gestures and warm reception underscored the governments pride in the teams achievements and their role in shaping the future of blind cricket in India, and as a tribute to the visually impaired women in making India the pioneer of inclusion through sport. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This grand homecoming stands as a powerful reminder of what unwavering dedication, teamwork, and belief can achieve. The first-ever Womens T20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind is now etched in history and shall remain as a reminder of Indias commitment to gender equality and inclusion. Article Source: IANS
Medvedev and Bopanna to team up for World Tennis Leagues India debut
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2nd Test: Washington Sundar Remains positive Despite Indias Struggles Against South Africa
Washington Sundar: As India fell into serious trouble in the second Test match against South Africa in Guwahati on Monday, Washington Sundar expressed cautious optimism, stating that the team must stay positive despite giving up a huge first-innings deficit. On Monday, South Africa took a commanding 314-run lead after India was bowled out for just 201, giving up control of the game. India's lineup struggled against a disciplined and tenacious Proteas attack on nearly perfect batting conditions, mostly due to poor shot selection. Got to stay positive in life. You never know what will happen, Sundar said when asked about Indias chances after a difficult Day 3 at the Barsapara Stadium. India's innings was further derailed when captain Rishabh Pant and wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel fell while attempting aggressive strokes against left-arm quick Marco Jansen. However, Sundar believed that blaming the collapse solely on those decisions would be unjust. On another day, both those shots would have gone into the stands, and all of us would have appreciated and clapped. Thats how it is, he said at the post-day media interaction. Sometimes you just have to back their plans and their skill sets as well, given the fact that they have shown a lot of proof and evidence in the past as well. Obviously, execution didnt go the way we wanted, he added. India had a great start to the day thanks to a 65-run opening partnership between KL Rahul and Yashasvi Jaiswal. Except for Sundar's own tough 48 from No. 8, the highest score of the innings, the hosts were reduced to 122 for seven due to a barrage of wickets. Only one game had passed since he finished that Test as India's top run scorer while batting at No. 3 in Kolkata. I would say I am happiest to bat wherever the team wants me to bat. That way, it is a lot more exciting. This is a team game. There are a lot of strategies that go into the game depending on the conditions, depending on the opposition. It is very tactical at times. Even in football, if you see good players, they might only get to play 2030 minutes. Thats how the game is, he said. Sundar acknowledged that there was no set strategy for session goals or scoring rates when considering India's batting strategy. I would say I am happiest to bat wherever the team wants me to bat. That way, it is a lot more exciting. This is a team game. There are a lot of strategies that go into the game depending on the conditions, depending on the opposition. It is very tactical at times. Even in football, if you see good players, they might only get to play 2030 minutes. Thats how the game is, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If we were in a scenario where we only lost 45 wickets today, then we can always plan tomorrow, and we bat quite deep as well. Going into the day-to-day, I dont think there was any plan as to how much we need to get today or probably in the first innings as well. Article Source: IANS
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Virat Kohli, Gambhir Join Members Of Cricket Fraternity, Condole Actor Dharmendras Demise
Breach Candy Hospital: India stalwart Virat Kohli and head coach Gautam Gambhir, besides other members of the cricketing fraternity, condoled the passing of veteran Bollywood actor Dharmendra. The Sholay actor left for the heavenly abode at the age of 89. Dharmendra was admitted to Breach Candy Hospital in South Mumbai on November 12 after he experienced breathing issues and was reportedly put on a ventilator. He later showed signs of recovery and was discharged from the hospital. However, just days after being released to continue his convalescence at his Juhu home, the legendary actor breathed his last on Monday. Kohli shared a condolence message on X, writing, Today, we have lost a legend of Indian cinema who captivated hearts with his charm and his talent. A true icon who inspired everyone who watched him. May the family find strength in this tough time. My sincere condolences to the whole family. India head coach Gautam Gambhir penned, Personality and charisma like no other! He was the absolute favourite of my family. Umesh Yadav, meanwhile, said, Deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Dharmendra ji. A true legend whose contribution to Indian cinema will be remembered forever. My heartfelt condolences to his family and loved ones. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti. An absolute icon of Indian cinema leaves us today. Dharmendra jis legacy, warmth, and timeless performances will stay in our hearts forever. My prayers and condolences to the family. Om Shanti, wrote Ishant Sharma. I am from Amitabh Bachchan saab's hometown, but I loved Veeru as much as Jai. Everybody loved Dharmendra; I never met anyone who wasn't his fan. RIP legend, Mohammad Kaif wrote. NCA head VVS Laxman shared a heartfelt message as he wrote, Deeply mourn the loss of Dharmender Ji, a timeless star whose presence lit up the screens and our lives. His legacy will remain etched in our hearts. My thoughts and prayers are with his family. May his soul rest in peace. Om Shanti. I am from Amitabh Bachchan saab's hometown, but I loved Veeru as much as Jai. Everybody loved Dharmendra; I never met anyone who wasn't his fan. RIP legend, Mohammad Kaif wrote. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Dharmendra's career, lasting over sixty years, earned him the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian award. He leaves a cinematic legacy that has influenced multiple generations and a widespread fan base that transcends borders, an achievement few actors can match. Article Source: IANS
