Cricket News

Nagesh Trophy: CAB Rajasthan, CAB Kerala Win In League Matches

National T20 Cricket Tournament: Rajasthan delivered a dominant all-round performance to register a convincing 10-wicket victory over Himachal in a league match of the 8th Edition of the Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind, held at the Railway Sports Ground, Hubli on Tuesday. After winning the toss, Rajasthan opted to field and produced a disciplined bowling effort to restrict Himachal to 164/8 in 20 overs. Vijay Kumar anchored the innings for Himachal with a brisk 104 runs, while BR Kaushal contributed 22 runs. Despite the resistance from Vijay Kumar, regular strikes by the Rajasthan bowlers prevented Himachal from building sustained momentum. Rajasthan skipper Lalit Meena (B1) led from the front with the ball, picking up two wickets, well supported by Murari Lal (B2). In reply, Rajasthan showcased complete batting dominance. Openers Nikhil Maharshi and Rohitash made light work of the chase, remaining unbeaten and guiding the team to victory in just 14.4 overs. Nikhil Maharshi scored a fluent 65 off 46 balls while Rohitash smashed an aggressive 86 off 47 balls. Their explosive partnership ensured a swift finish without the loss of a wicket. For his match-winning knock and impactful all-round contribution, Nikhil Maharshi (CAB Rajasthan) was deservedly adjudged the Player of the Match. Kerala secured an emphatic win Kerala continued the momentum with a commanding performance, registering a comprehensive nine-wicket win over Maharashtra in another league match of the tournament. After winning the toss, Maharashtra opted to bat but were kept under tight control by a disciplined Kerala bowling attack. Maharashtra were bowled out for 109 in 16 overs, with Anil Belsare (B3) top-scoring with 31 runs, while Swapnil Dilip Wagh contributed 28 runs off 22 balls. Keralas bowlers shared the spoils effectively, led by Sayanth K.B. (B1) and Jayakrishnan, who claimed two wickets each, supported well by Sachin (B2) and Snehith (B2). After winning the toss, Maharashtra opted to bat but were kept under tight control by a disciplined Kerala bowling attack. Maharashtra were bowled out for 109 in 16 overs, with Anil Belsare (B3) top-scoring with 31 runs, while Swapnil Dilip Wagh contributed 28 runs off 22 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For his impactful all-round performance, Sayanth K.B. (B1) was adjudged the Player of the Match. Article Source: IANS

ECB investigating Ben Duckett video amid drinking allegations

Recording posted on X appears to show England batter worse for wear during team's break in Noosa

2nd T20I: Harmanpreet Opts To Bowl As Sneh Rana Comes In For Sick Deepti Sharma

Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA: India captain Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and elected to bowl first against Sri Lanka in the second T20I of the five-match bilateral series at the Dr YS Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam, on Tuesday. India made one change to the playing XI from the first match, with Sneh Rana coming for the World No. 1-ranked ODI bowler in ICC Rankings, Deepti Sharma, who is unwell and has a fever. Sri Lanka have opted to go in with the same playing XI that did duty in the first match of the series. Although she has won the toss for the second consecutive game, Harmanpreet Kaur said it was a new experience for her, as she is not accustomed to winning the toss, but is enjoying it. Deepti is not well, Sneh Rana returns. We played well, nothing changes, same approach, said the Indian skipper. Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu said she is confident about her team. We're going with the same XI, I'm confident about my team. Gotta play confidently, that's the most important thing. Last game, we played behind the wicket. We have to play straight to our strength, he added. The ODI World Cup-winner India lead the five-match bilateral series 1-0 after winning the opening T20I at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. The Indian bowlers delivered a superb performance to restrict Sri Lanka to 121/8. The hosts then chased down the paltry target for the loss of two wickets with Jemimah Rodrigues scoring an unbeaten 69. Playing XIs: The ODI World Cup-winner India lead the five-match bilateral series 1-0 after winning the opening T20I at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. The Indian bowlers delivered a superb performance to restrict Sri Lanka to 121/8. The hosts then chased down the paltry target for the loss of two wickets with Jemimah Rodrigues scoring an unbeaten 69. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (capt), Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Vishmi Gunaratne, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushini Nuthyangana (wk), Kavisha Dilhari, Malki Madara, Inoka Ranaweera, Kawya Kavindi, Shashini Gimhani Article Source: IANS

India bowl against Sri Lanka but Deepti ruled out with mild fever

Sneh Rana replaced Deepti, while Sri Lanka were unchanged for the second T20I

Thomas Rew to lead England at Under-19s World Cup

Highly rated wicketkeeper-batter returns after missing Caribbean tour while with England Lions

Jemimah Rodrigues appointed Delhi Capitals captain ahead of WPL 2026

She replaces Meg Lanning in the role, who was not retained by DC this season

DDCAs 202526 AGM Focuses On Govt Approvals, Key Appointments, And Special Gesture Towards Delhi Police

DDCA Vice President Shikha Kumar: The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) on Tuesday held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the 202526 term at its registered office at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Ferozeshah Kotla Ground in New Delhi. The meeting focused on several essential governance matters, which were discussed and approved by the members. As part of the event, the DDCA also expressed gratitude by presenting 20 motorcycles to the Delhi Police, Central District, in recognition of their continued support during cricket events hosted at the venue. During the AGM, a special resolution was passed to appoint Honble Justice M.M. Kumar, former Chief Justice of the Jammu & Kashmir High Court, as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Association. Additionally, four regular agenda items were discussed and approved by an overwhelming majority. These included the adoption of the audited financial statements for 2025 and the reappointment of the Association's Chartered Accountants, alongside other statutory matters. Speaking on the proceedings of the AGM, DDCA President Rohan Jaitley said, The Annual General Meeting is central to the democratic functioning and governance framework of the DDCA. The decisions taken today, including the appointment of the Ombudsman-cum-Ethics Officer, reflect our commitment to transparency, accountability, and robust institutional processes. Later in the day, the DDCA officially transferred 20 motorcycles to the Delhi Police, Central District, recognising their vital role in maintaining safety, managing crowds, and ensuring smooth operations during national and international cricket matches held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium throughout the year. Thanking the Delhi Police, Jaitley added, The successful conduct of major cricketing events in Delhi is made possible through close coordination with the Delhi Police. Their professionalism and timely assistance are vital to maintaining safety and order during matchdays. This initiative is a small token of our appreciation and a step towards strengthening operational efficiency on the ground. Rishi Kumar Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, accepted the motorcycles on behalf of the Delhi Police, Central District. He expressed gratitude and mentioned that the additional vehicles would enhance mobility and support better law and order management during sporting events and everyday police work. Thanking the Delhi Police, Jaitley added, The successful conduct of major cricketing events in Delhi is made possible through close coordination with the Delhi Police. Their professionalism and timely assistance are vital to maintaining safety and order during matchdays. This initiative is a small token of our appreciation and a step towards strengthening operational efficiency on the ground. Also Read: Live Cricket Score These dual initiatives highlight the DDCA's commitment to robust governance and fostering meaningful institutional partnerships, all geared towards ensuring the smooth and successful hosting of cricket events in the national capital. Article Source: IANS

Thomas Rew Named Captain As England Names U19 World Cup Squad

U19 World Cup: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming Mens U19 World Cup, set to be hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15, 2026. Somerset wicketkeeper-batter Thomas Rew, who recently took part in the England Lions tour of Australia, will lead the team as captain for the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup. Nottinghamshire all-rounder Farhan Ahmed, who served as captain in Rews absence during the seven-match Youth ODI series against West Indies in Grenada, continues to hold a leadership position as vice-captain. Uncapped Leicestershire left-arm spinner Ali Farooq has received his first selection for the Young Lions. England Men U19s Head Coach, Mike Yardy, in an ECB statement, said, This is an amazing opportunity for the players we have selected to not only wear an England shirt at a World Cup but also to go out and try and do something special. We have a balanced squad with a core group of players who already have county experience and who have developed a camaraderie while playing together for the U19s that will serve them well during the tournament. I really want the players to enjoy the opportunity to play at a World Cup, in a beautiful country like Zimbabwe, and to embrace the chance to compete against different countries and show their quality. The English side will be located in Zimbabwe and is placed in Group C of the 16-team tournament. They will start their campaign with a match against Pakistan in Harare on Friday, January 16, followed by games against co-hosts Zimbabwe and Scotland on January 18 and 21. The three leading nations from each of the four groups will advance to the Super Six stage. The final match is scheduled to take place at Harare Sports Club on Friday, February 6. The English side will be located in Zimbabwe and is placed in Group C of the 16-team tournament. They will start their campaign with a match against Pakistan in Harare on Friday, January 16, followed by games against co-hosts Zimbabwe and Scotland on January 18 and 21. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Thomas Rew (c), Farhan Ahmed, Ralphie Albert, Ben Dawkins, Caleb Falconer, Ali Farooq, Alex French, Alex Green, Luke Hands, Manny Lumsden, Ben Mayes, James Minto, Isaac Mohammed, Joe Moores, Sebastian Morgan. Article Source: IANS

Sarfaraz to Pakistan's U-19s after beating India: 'Celebrate but with decorum'

In a video from the Asia Cup final that went viral, Pakistan's mentor was heard telling his players not to be uncivil even if India's players crossed lines

Deepti becomes No. 1 T20I bowler; Wolvaardt tops ODI batting charts

Jemimah Rodrigues jumped up to No. 9 among T20I batters after match-winning 69* against SL

Ashes fallout: Contrite Key admits New Zealand white-ball tour was planning error

Batters struggled for form in tough conditions and were unable to raise their games, says England MD

All-format Ambition A Driving Force Behind Karnataka's Run Machine Smaran Ravichandran

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Smaran Ravichandran has never been interested in choosing between formats. For Smaran, 22, the goal has always been to be a batter who excels in all three formats of the game. The goal right from the beginning when I started playing was to focus on all three formats and to become an all-format player for the country has always been my goal. All my work ethics and all the preparation that goes in during the off-season goes into all the three formats and not just one particular format. Yes, I would lay emphasis more on the red-ball aspect in order to play Tests for the country. But I think it's equally important to focus on the other two formats as well. As I said, my goal has always been to represent the country in all three formats. So I think even now my preparation and everything that I do will go into getting my team through across all three formats, Smaran told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of the start of Vijay Hazare Trophy, where Karnataka enter as defending champions. It's an ambitious declaration, considering playing all three formats as a batter is a rarity due to hectic scheduling. But then its backed by numbers that suggest Smaran is literally walking the talk. From having a forgettable start to his first-class career, Smaran has quickly become one of the closely followed batters in Indian cricket, due to his ability to adjust seamlessly between formats. His arrival into public memory came in last seasons Vijay Hazare Trophy, amassing 432 runs, including a match-winning century in the final. Then he ended the last Ranji season with scores of 203, 35 & 133 not out and had scores of 77 & 10, 3, 220 not out, 54 & 4 and 227 not out. In that Vijay Hazare Trophy final against Vidarbha in Vadodara, Karnataka were struggling early on a pitch offering conditions suitable for batting. But Smaran, playing in his first senior final for the state, recognised an opportunity to do something special. We were three down for 60-65 odd runs (67/3). As I recollect, the wicket was good to bat and just needed one partnership to get the team through. Me and (KL) Shrijith (who made 78) got a really big partnership to take it forward from there. With Abhinav (Manohar) coming in at the end and giving us those hits got us to a very good score of 350 or 348 if I'm not wrong. Lifting the trophy for Karnataka has always been the dream. I'm glad that we did it and now heading into this Vijay Hazare Trophy, obviously we are the defending champions and hopefully we can get another title home, he added. There's no hesitation when Smaran says the 101 that final stands at the top of his list of best knocks in his career so far. Its not just for the runs but for what it represented - Karnataka's first domestic trophy in five years and his own arrival on the big stage. His maiden first-class century, scored at his home ground M Chinnaswamy Stadium, comes a close second. It came in his sixth game after a lean opening phase, making the breakthrough all that sweet. Smaran goes into the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy on the back of amassing 319 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 158.70 for Karnataka in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, though the team failed to qualify for the knockouts. With a much longer break in hand, Smaran had time in hand to prepare for switching from 20-over cricket to 50-over format. After coming back to a chilly Bengaluru, Smaran had a weeks preparation to work on Vijay Hazare Trophy preparation with his childhood coach Syed Zabiulla, before playing a few practice games within the states set-up. When not doing anything around cricket, Smaran enjoys playing paddle and catching up on all kinds of movies in Hindi, English and Kannada, but crime thrillers is his go-to genre to watch. But the transition from red-ball to white-ball wasn't straightforward, he admits. In the Ranji Trophy, emphasis is on occupying the crease for extended periods. T20 cricket demands explosive bursts and immediate gear changes, as well as 3-4 days of focus on quality power hitting. But moving from T20 to 50-over cricket? That's more manageable for Smaran. In Ranji Trophy, you focus on playing the entire day or one and a half days. The focus is to stay at the crease. But in T20s, it's about those short bursts of runs and intensity is higher, and you straight away switch into different gears. So that was challenging. Heading into Vijay Hazare, the switch is going to be easier compared from when we switched to Ranji Trophy to Mushtaq Ali because it's still the white-ball format. Obviously, in the 50-over format, you have that extra time of settling down and taking your time out there in the middle, unlike the T20 format. Smaran's brief stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in this years IPL provided him with direct access to some of T20 cricket's most destructive players. Though he wasnt a like for like replacement for Adam Zampa, Smaran conceded going from watching IPL matches on television to sharing a dressing room with a plethora of international stars was surreal. Though his stint prematurely due to an injury picked after tripping over advertising hoarding while taking a catch in the practice, the conversations he had with Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan were very precious for Smaran, who stands just shy of six feet, and his long levers giving him a natural ability to clear the boundary. His strength lies square of the wicket - a result of picking lengths sharply and assured back-foot play. I spoke to Klaasen and I had conversations with Ishan as well regarding their aspects of and how they approach the game in the T20 format. A lot of valuable inputs came from Klaasen regarding how he stays still and how he keeps a solid base while hitting. Just conversations like that to inculcate into my game so that I can keep getting better at it, he said. Those insights are now woven into his own game, as he continues to develop the power-hitting skills required in modern white-ball cricket. As someone who grew up admiring Kumar Sangakkara and Michael Hussey - two left-handers renowned for their adaptability across formats - Smaran understands what true all-format success looks like. He recalls watching Sangakkara's 287 against South Africa, coming in a record 684-run stand with Mahela Jayawardene against Sri Lanka, leaving him in awe of the patience and concentration required to bat for long periods in Tests. That ability to occupy the crease through extended passages of play is something Smaran knows he must continue developing. There are still phases of the game where you feel during a Test game to go with your shots and that is something that I still have to work on But yes, a big aspect of Test cricket goes to patience, but that is still a work in progress and I just try to bat long phases of the game without losing concentration. I mean it's easy to say but to get the job done is really hard but that is something that I have to keep in mind, he said. While his cricket career accelerates, Ravichandran hasn't abandoned his academics. He's currently pursuing an MBA in finance at Ramaiah University in Bangalore, after completing his B.Com degree. It's a balance his parents have always insisted upon. Right from the beginning they have been supportive of my journey and they have really allowed me to give me all the freedom to go ahead and pursue it side to side because with the competition in the country there is no guarantee with sport in general in the country, he says. Are his parents satisfied with his progress in cricket? Well, not yet. The answer is no because there is still a long way to go and my mom asked me why didn't you get runs in the last two games of the Mushtaq Ali trophy. So thats something that always keeps me going and that is the motivation that my mom keeps giving me. Smarans cricketing journey ironically began from a decision made by his mother she need an activity to keep her restless son engaged and more importantly, be outside home. The solution arrived when a cricket coaching academy opened in the same residential layout where Smarans family still lives. His mother enrolled him there, hoping it would burn off some of that restless energy. I always had an interest towards cricket, but didn't know the facets of the game and how professional cricket worked. But I always had an interest towards batting and cricket in general. That's when I met my coach and things were gradually taken forward. What began as a parenting strategy has become the foundation of a promising cricket career. In his early years, Smaran was an all-rounder who bowled off-spin, though its frequency has gone down. I still bowl off-spin, but now I bowl a lot less. But till I was about 14 or 15, I played as an all-rounder, but then after a while when I grew in height, I didn't have that much of accuracy in my off-spin. But that is something that I still have to work on because the way the game is growing, having 2 or 3 skills is equally important. So that is something that I want to work on and I'm going to do it. Smaran represented Karnataka at every level, making his under-19 debut at just 15 while also piling up runs in under-16 cricket. That early success fuelled a specific ambition: representing India at the 2022 Under-19 World Cup. Then Covid-19 pandemic arrived, and with it, the suspension of cricket worldwide. When the game restarted, Smaran couldnt make the cut for the mega event which India won. That was something that I really had my mind on fulfilling. My main goal was to represent India at the under-19 World Cup but that didn't happen. But it's all part and parcel of the game. The game always has its ups and downs. After that, I realized that representing Karnataka at the senior level and playing Ranji Trophy for the state will be my biggest goal, he said with his tone being polite rather than bitter. It was a recalibration rather than a setback and swiftly paved the way for Smaran to break into the senior Karnataka team. I am glad that I got to make my debut last year and I am looking to take it forward from there. Again, the main goal is to still win a lot of tournaments with Karnataka and whichever team that I play for. For Smaran, personal milestones matter less than collective success. Growing up watching Vinay Kumar-led Karnataka claim back-to-back Ranji Trophy titles and the trebles in 2013/14 and 2014/15 instilled in him a clear sense of what the state expects from the current crop. It was a recalibration rather than a setback and swiftly paved the way for Smaran to break into the senior Karnataka team. I am glad that I got to make my debut last year and I am looking to take it forward from there. Again, the main goal is to still win a lot of tournaments with Karnataka and whichever team that I play for. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hopefully we can do in the upcoming years as well as in the season that we're in now - we can win both the trophies and bring it back home. Definitely that's the goal, irrespective of whether I'm on top of the runs or not, I think as long as we get the trophy back home, that itself is the cherry on the cake, he signed off. Article Source: IANS

All Vijay Hazare Trophy Matches In Bengaluru Moved From Chinnaswamy To BCCI CoE

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar: All Vijay Hazare Trophy matches that were set to take place at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium have been relocated to the BCCI Centre of Excellence, due to a directive from the Karnataka government citing security issues. All Vijay Hazare Trophy matches scheduled to be held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will now happen at the BCCI CoE. Its a decision which was taken earlier in the day due to security reasons, as said by the state government, a DDCA official told IANS on Tuesday. The official further said that both participating teams for the opening game had been notified, and their pre-match training session is now set to take place at the BCCI CoE. The Delhi team has been told about it and their pre-match practice against Andhra will now happen at CoE, the official added. Meanwhile, all the Vijay Hazare matches in Bengaluru will be held without spectators. The Bengaluru police have assured a strong security presence around the Aerospace Park, where CoE is located. Karnataka Police have refused permission for the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd-control concerns. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who identified critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. On Monday, a committee constituted by the Karnataka government, comprising officials from the police, public works and fire safety departments, inspected the Chinnaswamy Stadium and submitted a report. The Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had already issued a 17-point advisory outlining mandatory safety measures. The committee verified whether these points had been complied with and submitted its findings to the government. On Monday, a committee constituted by the Karnataka government, comprising officials from the police, public works and fire safety departments, inspected the Chinnaswamy Stadium and submitted a report. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The KSCA had earlier expressed confidence in staging matches featuring Kohli and Pant at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Article Source: IANS

Formula 1 2025 Season turns out to be pivotal year for Indian motorsport

The Indian market's link to F1 is more robust than ever. Record-breaking viewership confirms India's vital role in the sport's worldwide strategy. This growth is supported by extending FanCode's exclusive broadcast deal through 2028, allowing Indian fans to stay connected to the action as local drivers gear up for the 2026 world stage.

Karnataka Police Deny Permission For Vijay Hazare Trophy Match At Chinnaswamy Stadium

Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar: Karnataka Police have denied permission for the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd control concerns. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who raised critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh made the statement in this regard on Tuesday, while addressing media persons. The committee had gone to the stadium on Monday, on the instructions of the Home Department. Officers from various departments, including fire, Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and police, had inspected the stadium. As per the report from the officers, permission has not been granted for the match on Wednesday at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The committee has also given a detailed report, Commissioner Singh stated. The Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had already issued a 17-point advisory outlining mandatory safety measures. The committee verified whether these points have been complied with and submitted its findings to the government. Police sources stated the stadium gates were too narrow to handle large crowds, especially with Virat Kohli expected to attend. Sources further revealed that in a last-ditch effort, Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Venkatesh Prasad met with state Home Minister G. Parameshwara, pleading for an exception, but authorities stood firm. Parameshwara announced on Monday that a committee was formed to inspect and assess whether the Chinnaswamy Stadium is fit to host the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match. The minister chaired a meeting at the Vidhana Soudha with officials from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and senior police officers to discuss arrangements for the upcoming match. Parameshwara announced on Monday that a committee was formed to inspect and assess whether the Chinnaswamy Stadium is fit to host the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Notably, 11 people were killed in a stampede near the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory celebrations on June 4. Article Source: IANS

Distancing Myself, There's Not Much Point In Picking Up A Bat: Tahlia McGrath Opens Up On toughest Phase Of Career

T20 World Cup: Australia vice-captain Tahlia McGrath has candidly acknowledged she is navigating the most challenging stretch of her international career, conceding a loss of confidence following a disappointing World Cup campaign. For the first time in eight years, Australia finished a global tournament without lifting either the ODI or T20 World Cup trophy, bowing out of last months ODI World Cup in the semi-finals against eventual champions India. The team will next regroup in February for a home multi-format series against India, before turning attention to the T20 World Cup in England in June. McGraths personal journey has mirrored the teams challenges. The 30-year-old endured a lean tournament, managing just 69 runs at an average of 13.75 in a competition where her opportunities with both bat and ball were limited. Reflecting on that period, she admitted the toll it took. Cricket's a pretty brutal game, and it's very much based around confidence. And when it's not going your way, the world gets pretty big on you. I definitely underperformed and felt the pressure a bit, McGrath was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo. Asked whether this represented the toughest phase of her career, McGrath did not shy away from the assessment. Probably. I think you add captaincy into that, you add time away from home. And, obviously, when you lose a World Cup, it's pretty hard to get over as well. It's been a challenging time. As much as I was doing everything possible to get us playing some finals cricket (in the WBBL), I was hanging out for a bit of a break, she said. Since 2022, McGrath has frequently deputised for Alyssa Healy, leading Australia on 15 occasions. Alongside Ashleigh Gardner, she is widely regarded as a leading contender to take over the captaincy once Healy steps aside. Yet McGraths openness about her form struggles highlights a player reassessing both her role and readiness. In a move reflecting that need for reset, McGrath chose not to nominate for next months Womens Premier League in India. Instead, she has opted for time at home with South Australia ahead of the upcoming international schedule. Since 2022, McGrath has frequently deputised for Alyssa Healy, leading Australia on 15 occasions. Alongside Ashleigh Gardner, she is widely regarded as a leading contender to take over the captaincy once Healy steps aside. Yet McGraths openness about her form struggles highlights a player reassessing both her role and readiness. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While she remains committed to the teams needs, McGrath has not ruled out a return to those positions. I'm a very team-first person and love being in the XI and contributing. I haven't quite nailed that No.7 spot, so I probably need to go away and do a bit of work on that and make that my own first of all. Then once I can do that, try and get myself up the order, she added. Article Source: IANS

Delhi Vs Andhra Vijay Hazare Trophy Match To Be Held Behind Closed Doors: Report

Andhra Vijay Hazare Trophy: As the Indian cricket star Virat Kohli is expected to make a comeback to domestic cricket, targeting the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26 for Delhi, but fans will not get a chance to witness the batting stalwart playing, as Delhis first-round match against Andhra at M Chinnaswamy Stadium will be held behind closed doors. As per the ESPNcricinfo report, the Karnataka government is set to issue an order to the KSCA to stage matches behind closed doors, with the BCCI's Centre of Excellence to be a back-up venue in case police permission isn't forthcoming for matches at the Chinnaswamy. The KSCA previously suggested opening two stands to the public, with a capacity of 2000-3000 spectators if fully utilised. However, the government strongly opposed this plan, citing potential security and compliance issues, while work on resolving these concerns is still in progress. The state government aims to avoid chaos around the venue during the holiday season, considering the prominence of the players involved. The availability of Kohli and Rishabh Pant for the first two matches previously led the KSCA to shift the venue from Alur to Chinnaswamy to address logistical issues. The BCCIs Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru has become a vital hub for Indian cricket, providing top-tier infrastructure and facilities focused on developing players. Hosting numerous domestic matches creates an excellent environment for both young and seasoned players to hone their skills. Should Delhis matches be held at the CoE, it will be Kohlis first competitive appearance there, making it a memorable experience for him and his teammates. The state government aims to avoid chaos around the venue during the holiday season, considering the prominence of the players involved. The availability of Kohli and Rishabh Pant for the first two matches previously led the KSCA to shift the venue from Alur to Chinnaswamy to address logistical issues. Also Read: Live Cricket Score According to BCCI rules, centrally contracted players must participate in domestic tournaments when they are not on international duty. In line with this requirement, Kohli will play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, bringing valuable experience and leadership to the Delhi team. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will lead the team as captain during the tournament, while Kohli will serve in a senior role within the squad. Article Source: IANS

Australia prepare for life without 'shattered' Nathan Lyon

It'll be pretty long, Australia coach Andrew McDonald says of Nathan Lyon's road back after veteran offspinner undergoes hamstring surgery

Ashes: Rob Key To Investigate Allegations Of Players Having a Drinking Stag-do Before Adelaide Test

Boxing Day Test: England cricket team's managing director Rob Key defended the teams four-day trip to Noosa, taken between the second and third Ashes Tests, and stated that the board is investigating claims that their travel was turned into a beer-filled stag party. Away from the field, Englands mid-series trip to Noosa, a well-heeled coastal resort in Queensland, has also come under the microscope. The squad headed there for four nights after their heavy defeat at the Gabba, describing it as a chance to reset rather than a break for leisure. Head coach Brendon McCullum, who organised the visit, described it as excellent and believed it would leave the team refreshed ahead of the third Test. Key did not join the squad in Noosa and initially said he had no concerns about the players conduct. However, following the loss in Adelaide, reports emerged likening the trip to a stag do. He said he would investigate the claims to establish whether any action was necessary. If there's things where people are saying that our players went out and drank excessively, then of course we'll be looking into that. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol for an international cricket team is not something that I'd expect to see at any stage, and it would be a fault not to look into what happened there. But from everything that I've heard so far, they were very well behaved, Key told reporters at the MCG on Tuesday. I've read what's been written in the last day or so, and if it goes into where they're drinking lots and it's a stag do, all that type of stuff, that's completely unacceptable. I'm not a drinker. I think a drinking culture doesn't help anyone in any stretch whatsoever. If there's things where people are saying that our players went out and drank excessively, then of course we'll be looking into that. Drinking excessive amounts of alcohol for an international cricket team is not something that I'd expect to see at any stage, and it would be a fault not to look into what happened there. But from everything that I've heard so far, they were very well behaved, Key told reporters at the MCG on Tuesday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score What was dubbed as a potentially era-defining tour has instead prompted another phase of reflection for English cricket, after consecutive defeats in Perth, Brisbane, and Adelaide. With the Ashes already lost, England's immediate goal is to minimise the damage, starting with the Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Article Source: IANS

Sharjah Warriorz survive low-scoring thriller to beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

Sharjah Warriorz held their nerve to clinch a dramatic four-wicket win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Monday. They moved to six points, and with two games to spare, have set up a tight race for the remaining playoff spots in DP World ILT20 Season 4. The Warriorz Taskin Ahmed and Wasim Akram reduced the Knight Riders to 10/4, with Adil Rashid's three wickets later restricting them to 134/9 despite Sherfane Rutherford's 44 off 36. Then, James Rews unbeaten 42 off 29 balls with four fours and a six, coupled with Razas 28 off 25 tookthem to the victory on the final ball. In the second innings, Jason Holder got the early wicket of Johnson Charles (0 off 6) in the second over, and Monank Patel (7 off 8) soon followed in the third over, bowled by Ajay Kumar. Tom Kohler-Cadmore (30 off 35) then hit three boundaries in a single over. Charles, along with Tom Abell (13 off 13), guided the Warriorz to 38/2 by the end of the power play. Olly Stone delivered a breakthrough for the Knight Riders by removing Tom Abell, while Sunil Narine kept Kohler-Cadmore and Sikandar Raza in check. The Warriorz eventuallyreached 58/3 at the halfway stage of the chase. Sunil Narine finally broke the resistance by trapping Kohler-Cadmore LBW. His 35-run stand off 32 balls with Raza kept the Warriorz in the chase. James Rew then struck a pair of boundaries off Andre Russell in the 14th over and continued to rotate the strike alongside Raza as the Warriorz reached91/4 after 15 overs. Raza and Rew kept the scoreboard ticking to complete a 57-run partnership off 35 balls. He was then dismissed in the 18th over for Ajay Kumars second scalp, after which skipper Holder bowled a superb penultimate over to leave 12 required off the final six balls. However, Rew and Adil Rashid saw outthe final over to seal an important win. Earlier, Taskin Ahmed and Wasim Akram ripped through the top order as the Knight Riders suffered an early collapse. Taskin struck in the opening over to remove Phil Salt (4 off 6), before Wasim trapped Brandon McMullen (0 off 3) LBW in the second. Taskin then added Alex Hales (5 off 5) to histally in the third over. Wasim followed it up with a historic wicket maiden in the fourth over the first maiden by a UAE player in league history to remove Liam Livingstone for a duck. This left the Knight Riders reeling at 10/4, before Alishan Sharafu (19 off 25) and Sherfane Rutherford took them to 28/4 at the end ofthe powerplay. The Knight Riders continued to struggle in the middle overs after spin was added to the bowling equation. Sikandar Raza broke the SharafuRutherford stand of 38 runs in 33 balls when he dismissed the UAE batter. Despite a brief counterattack from Rutherford, the Knight Riders limped to 51/5 at the end of 10 overs. Unmukt Chand (24 off 22) then joined Rutherford in the middle and stitched together a much-needed stand of 52 runs in 45 balls to steady the Knight Riders. Rutherford shifted gears in the 15th over with a six and two boundaries off Nathan Sowter. The pair added vital runs through the middle, taking the totalto 95/5, before the momentum was checked in the 17th over when Dwaine Pretorius removed the set Rutherford. Adil Rashid sent Unmukt Chand packing in the 18th over, but Andre Russell and Jason Holder provided a late surge with a couple of sixes each, hammering 25 runs off Taskin in the 19th over. Rashid returned in the final over to dismiss Holder (14 off 6) and Russell (18 off 12), finishing with a decisive three-wicket haul as the Knight Riders were restricted to 134/9. Match Summary Sharjah Warriorz beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by four wickets Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 134/9 in 20 overs (Sherfane Rutherford 44, Unmukt Chand 24, Adil Rashid 3 for 18, Wasim Akram 2 for 12, Taskin Ahmed 2 for 41) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sharjah Warriorz 135/6 in 20 overs (James Rew 42 not out, Tom Kohler-Cadmore 30, Sikandar Raza 28, Ajay Kumar 2 for 29, Jason Holder 2 for 25) Player of the match: Adil Rashid

A brutal game: Tahlia McGrath opens up on form struggle

The allrounder opted not to nominate for the WPL and will focus on preparing for the multi-format series against India

'We Havent Done That Well Enough', Admits Rob Key On Englands Ashes Defeat

Boxing Day Test: Rob Key, England cricket team's managing director, has conceded that Englands current setup has fallen short when it has mattered most, pointing out that they have not won any of their last four five-Test series against Australia or India. Australia have retained the Ashes with a dominant 82-run victory over England in the third Test in Adelaide on Sunday. With the Ashes already out of reach, England now face the task of limiting the damage, beginning with the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Clearly, weve mucked up on the big occasions. Whether that was the home Ashes series or whether that was last summer against India, where we should have won the series, the big ones have eluded us, Key told reporters at the MCG on Tuesday. The truth is we havent done that well enough for a while. Theres been some brilliant moments along the way and I still feel like theres plenty of life in this whole thing, but we have to evolve. We have to make sure that were doing things better. You dont mind losing, the regret is that youve not played anything like your best. Thats my view on it but, as you know, these things are taken out of peoples hands a lot of the time. The decision really for the ECB will be whether or not they want to rip it up and start again, or whether they want to evolve and whether were the right people to do that, he said. After England lost 4-0 four years ago, this has been the first away series loss of the Bazball era following the appointments of Brendon McCullum as head coach and Ben Stokes as captain in 2022. Despite the scrutiny, Key continues to back McCullum, whom he appointed as Test coach in 2022 before broadening his remit to all formats at the start of this year. McCullum has already indicated that he wants to continue in the role, and Key remains convinced he is the right man for the job. Despite the scrutiny, Key continues to back McCullum, whom he appointed as Test coach in 2022 before broadening his remit to all formats at the start of this year. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Weve had three games here where theyre adapting slowly, and I dont think personally thats because we need a fresh voice or theyre not listening. Sometimes the opposition is just bloody good, he said. Article Source: IANS

Cummins Ruled Out Of Remainder Of Ashes, T20 World Cup Participation Uncertain

T20 World Cup: Skipper Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the rest of the Ashes series after being left out of Australias squad for the Boxing Day Test, and it is unclear whether he will be available for the T20 World Cup in February. Cummins had signalled in his post-match press conference, following the Adelaide Test, that he could be rested to manage an ongoing back issue. The pacer, who was diagnosed with a lumbar stress reaction after the West Indies tour, pushed the limits of his rehabilitation from a back stress injury to return for the third Test. He took six wickets in the Adelaide Test as Australia won by 82 runs, retaining the Ashes urn with two games to go. On Tuesday, head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed his injury omission for the rest of the Ashes series. He won't play any part in the rest of the series. That was a discussion that we had a long time out around his return. Yeah, we were taking on some risk. We've now won the series, and that was the goal. To position him for further risk and jeopardise him long term is not something that we want to do, McDonald told reporters in Melbourne. Pat's really comfortable with that. If he had any setback in the build-in as well, we would have shut him down straight away. Everything went really smoothly, and full credit to him, the medical team and to navigate through that risk profile, to get him back and take six wickets in that game and nail the Ashes series was incredibly pleasing for everyone associated with that, he added. It remains to be seen if Cummins will be available for the T20 World Cup set to start in February. I cant really say at the moment, we are hopeful, said McDonald. Everything went really smoothly, and full credit to him, the medical team and to navigate through that risk profile, to get him back and take six wickets in that game and nail the Ashes series was incredibly pleasing for everyone associated with that, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking on Cummins' T20 World Cup chances, McDonald said, That'll be an assessment. I'm assuming he'll have a check-in scan at some point and gather more information around where his back is at looking forward to the World Cup, whether he'll be there or not. I can't really say. It's quite grey at the moment. We're hopeful. Article Source: IANS

Match fees more than doubled for women's domestic cricketers in India

The changes are part of BCCI's ongoing efforts to elevate the domestic game in the wake of India's maiden ODI World Cup triumph

Ashes over for Cummins, uncertainty over T20 World Cup too

That was a discussion that we had a long time out around his return, head coach Andrew McDonald says about Australia captain Pat Cummins' one-Test appearance at the Ashes

Murphy, Richardson Named In Boxing Day Test Squad, Lyon To Undergo Surgery

Boxing Day Test: Todd Murphy and Jhye Richardson have been added to Australia's 15-member squad for the fourth Ashes Test, starting on December 26. Murphy edged out Matt Kuhnemann and Corey Rocchiccioli to replace Nathan Lyon as the veteran off-spinner set to undergo surgery on his injured hamstring. Murphy has featured seven times at Test level for Australia, with his most recent match coming at the start of the year against Sri Lanka in Galle. Australia confirmed on Tuesday that Nathan Lyon will undergo surgery after suffering a torn right hamstring while diving to stop a boundary on the final day of their Ashes-sealing third Test. Meanwhile, Steve Smith is set to resume captaincy subject to clearance from the inner-ear problem that ruled him out in Adelaide, while Pat Cummins will sit out the Boxing Day Test. Richardson could be in line to replace Cummins after making a recent return from injury and linking up with the squad in Adelaide ahead of the third Test. The right-arm quick has featured in just three Tests during an injury-hit career, with his most recent appearance coming against England in Adelaide in 2021, but the selectors continue to hold the 29-year-old in high regard. Richardsons formal addition to the squad puts him in contention for a Test comeback after a four-year absence. He underwent his third shoulder surgery earlier this year and has gradually built up his bowling workload in recent weeks, training alongside the squad during the opening three Tests. The right-arm quick has featured in just three Tests during an injury-hit career, with his most recent appearance coming against England in Adelaide in 2021, but the selectors continue to hold the 29-year-old in high regard. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia squad (fourth Test only): Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster Article Source: IANS

Australia's Pat Cummins, Nathan Lyon Out Of Fourth Ashes Test

Australian skipper Pat Cummins and Nathan Lyon were Tuesday ruled out of the fourth Ashes Test against England with the veteran spinner facing surgery and an extended period on the sidelines. Quick bowler Jhye Richardson and spinner Todd Murphy were named as cover in a 15-man squad for the clash starting on Friday at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Australia have already retained the Ashes with eight-wicket wins in Perth and Brisbane and an 82-run victory in Adelaide. Pat Cummins will miss the match as part of his ongoing management plan, Cricket Australia said, with Adelaide his first Test since July after lower back issues. Steve Smith, who captained the team in Cummins' absence during the first two Tests, will lead the team again in Melbourne after missing Adelaide with vertigo symptoms. Nathan Lyon will have surgery on a torn right hamstring which will sideline him for an extended period, the governing body added. Lyon, 38, damaged his right hamstring saving a boundary on day five in Adelaide fielding and hobbled off after. In Adelaide, he claimed his 564th wicket to move clear of fellow Australian great Glenn McGrath and into sixth on the all-time Test bowling list. Murphy is set to play his first home Test, with his seven previous Tests all overseas. He last played for Australia in Sri Lanka earlier this year. Richardson was included after a four-year Test absence, during which he underwent three shoulder surgeries. Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc are again set to lead the attack after pulling up well from Adelaide, with Michael Neser, Brendan Doggett and Richardson battling to join them. Australia squad: Steve Smith (capt), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster Also Read: Live Cricket Score

NZC introduces bonus points in Women's Super Smash to lift scoring rates

With average team totals on the rise in global cricket, the board hopes the new rule keeps NZ on track with global trends

Ashes fallout: Key to investigate whether England's drinking went too far in Noosa

The managing director admitted England had mucked up on the big occasions but backed Brendon McCullum as coach

Murphy, Richardson called up for Boxing Day, Lyon set for surgery

Steven Smith returns from illness to captain in Pat Cummins' absence

BCCI Hikes Match Fee For Women's Domestic Matches

ODI World Cup: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a hike in the fee for women's domestic matches during an online meeting of its Apex Council on Monday. Under the new proposed structure, the daily match fee for senior womens tournaments (50-over and multi-day) will be increased to Rs 50,000 for the playing XI members and Rs 25,000 for reserves. For senior women's T20 matches, the revised rates will be Rs 25,000 and Rs 12,500, respectively. In a similar vein, domestic T20 match fees have also been increased. The playing XI would now receive Rs 25,000 per match day in national T20 competitions, while reserves will get Rs 12,500. Additionally, the Apex Council raised junior cricket players' fees too. Reserves will receive Rs 12,500 in ODI games, while players in the Under-23 and Under-19 divisions will receive Rs 25,000. The playing XI will get Rs 12,500 for T20 matches, while the reserves will get Rs 6,250. Match officials are also set to benefit significantly under the proposed revisions, with a substantial increase in match fees for umpires and match referees in domestic tournaments. The playing XI will get Rs 12,500 for T20 matches, while the reserves will get Rs 6,250. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The fee hike for domestic matches coming after the Indian women's cricket team triumphed in the ICC Women's ODI World Cup, beating South Africa in the final played in Navi Mumbai, is a clear indicator of the rising status of women's cricket in the country. With the Women's Premier League (WPL) ushering in riches for the top stars, it was the right time for the benefits to pass down to the players at the domestic level, as that will attract new talents and help in identifying and nurturing talent at the grassroots level. Article Source: IANS

ICC pledges to fund USA cricketers amid USAC dysfunction

The ICC revealed it had offered to provide a loan to USAC after the bankruptcy filing that included the payment of player and High-Performance staff salaries

'Bit of a privilege' - Record-breaking Duffy on being NZ's frontman

Duffy toppled Sir Richard Hadlee's record for the most wickets by a New Zealand bowler in a calendar year

From Borgaon To Being Roped In By RCB For Rs 5.20 Crore: Mangesh Yadav's Surreal Tale

MPCA President Mahanaaryaman Scindia: When Mangesh Yadav's name flashed on the IPL 2026 auction broadcast in Abu Dhabi, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) locked horns in a fierce bidding war that would forever change the left-arm quick's life. Within seconds, his price rocketed from a base price of Rs 30 lakh to a staggering Rs 5.2 crore a staggering jump FOR pacer. Mangesh, a skiddy left-arm pacer consistently clocking 140 kmph with a sharp yorker in his repertoire, could barely process what had just unfolded. I was just thinking the first bid should happen and a team takes me in. I was very happy with the first bid from RCB. But within seconds in front of my eyes, SRH and RCB were bidding for me and it reached five crores, which was extremely astonishing. My parents back home were very happy. They were also getting calls from relatives, recalled Mangesh in an exclusive conversation with IANS. By the roadside in Noida, miles away from where his protege's life was being transformed, Phoolchand Sharma, who runs Wonders Cricket Club in Sector 34, was over the moon. I can't tell you how happy I was on seeing him get selected. Before that, a lot of my kids have played in IPL, but theres a different happiness for him. I did hope that he would be picked by any franchise in the auction. I have never met his father or mother, nor have I ever spoken to them. I have raised him like my own kid. Hes been a good boy from the start, a calm and hardworking kid. I gave him a lot of matches to play in Delhi, as well as in district leagues in Delhi and UP. Hes had a very long journey and is now seeing the fruits of being committed to that path, he told IANS. Mangeshs cricketing journey began in Borgaon village in Madhya Pradeshs Chhindwara district, not in an established academy but within the confines of his homes compound. As a six-year-old, he'd return home in tears after fighting with boys while playing. His mother Rita found a solution: she'd bowl to him in the compound and he would bat for as long as he wished for. From there, I started playing cricket regularly and it went on and on. I started bowling a little late with the left arm. But I used to see the bowling of Mitchell Johnson and RP Singh sir bowling and that served me with a lot of motivation, he said. As years went by, Mangesh's talent was remarkable. But in a family of six, including three sisters, his father Ramavadh drove trucks to make ends meet. Pursuing professional cricket seemed financially impossible till his maternal uncle convinced Ramavadh to let his son train seriously in cricket. After that, Mangesh headed to Noida to train under Sharma. The hostel fees was Rs 20,000 per month, well beyond his familys reach. What happened next would alter the trajectory of Mangesh's life. Sir saw my game and he liked it. He forgave my fees and told me to stay here and practice, so that was very helpful in my journey. My father has done so much for me. I didn't have any stress, I just wanted to play cricket, all the struggle was of my father. If it wasn't for Phoolchand sir, I wouldn't have been able to play cricket. The reality of Ramavadh's sacrifice was never lost on Mangesh. While Mangesh caught 4am trains for training and playing matches, his father was waking at the same time to begin another gruelling shift behind the wheel - navigating treacherous roads through the night with no fixed schedule. My father's struggle is unmatchable. I used to feel sad that I am going out to play, but the father is waking up daily in the morning, goes out to drive the truck in night through a lot of dangerous roads, though they are in a much better condition now. The academy evolved alongside Mangesh - from basic facilities to a comprehensive setup featuring gym, indoor nets, trainers and coaches. Apart from Shivam Mavi, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, India stars Jasprit Bumrah, Ashish Nehra and Hardik Pandya would drop in for net sessions at Sharmas academy when in Delhi-NCR. What immediately struck Sharma about Mangesh was the rarity of discovering a left-arm quick whose natural bowling action didn't require fundamental reconstruction. His bowling action reminded him of how Zaheer Khan bowled - smooth, repeatable, lethal. You do know that when a left-handed batter or bowler plays, there is an alag nazakat (different sheen) to it. Right from the rhythm of his run-up, he seemed like a perfect packaged bowler. We have to teach a lot of kids that you are running slow, head is falling over and rhythm is not good. But when he used to run and bowl, it was perfect action, like how Zaheer used to have. I used to like Zaheer's action and he was just like that. We worked on improvising it, he added. Small technical tweaks combined with natural athleticism gradually revealed a complete cricketer capable of consistently hitting 140kmph. The biggest thing is he had a lot of seniors to learn and get support from, like Anureet Singh, who played for IPL for many years, Mavi, and Bhuvneshwar. We caught some of his small shortcomings, or at times, other boys caught it. We developed his bowling slowly. He is a good fielder from the start. In between, when the kids used to go elsewhere, he used to hit long sixes. His hitting power has been very good, he added. Mangesh represented MP in U19 and U23 teams, but feared opportunities were slipping away without a proper platform to showcase his talent. Then came the Madhya Pradesh League - an initiative by current MPCA President Mahanaaryaman Scindia that proved to be transformative. Playing for Gwalior Cheetahs this year, Mangesh claimed 14 wickets to become the tournament's leading wicket-taker and IPL scouts took notice. I thought I would be late in grabbing my opportunity, but Scindia ji introduced the MP League and then I got the chance to perform. When I got good performances in it this year, everything has happened well from then onwards for me. Mangeshs three mentors - Anand Rajan, Tanmay Srivastava and Ankur Tyagi also stepped in to refine his game and mindset. Srivastava, an Under-19 World Cup winner for India in 2008 and now an active umpire, provided invaluable perspective to Mangesh, so as Rajan, who played for the state and in the IPL. I talk to Ankur Tyagi after every match - he is like a big brother to me. He has always supported and guided me in the right way. Due to all three of them, I have always improved in the right way, he said. Despite a disappointing debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), MP head coach Chandrakant Pandit pushed him to showcase his batting abilities in the second match against Punjab. Mangesh grabbed the chance by hitting 28 off 12 balls, proving that he was more than just a bowler. My first match was not that good, but the captain backed me well, due to which I was amongst the wickets. Pandit sir told me 'Mangesh, you will also have to do some batting'. In the second game, he sent me up to bat and I was able to showcase my batting abilities, which felt really good. Before embarking to Pune for the tournaments Super League stage, Mangesh went through trials with RCB, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Mumbai Indians. Though he couldn't attend SRH and PBKS trials due to hectic schedule, the formers bowling coach, ex-India pacer Varun Aaron took notice of his skillsets. But now, landing at RCB means sharing a dressing room with the talismanic Virat Kohli - a childhood dream that Mangesh admits never seemed remotely possible. I always wanted to play under Virat sir's captaincy. But he is not doing it and I feel sharing the dressing room with him is a big deal. I never imagined that I would play alongside him and this set to become a reality is a great feeling. His recent experience under Patidar's captaincy during high-pressure SMAT games also keeps Mangesh in good stead. Cricket is tough if you think in mind about it and playing in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is a lot of pressure, as you do know the likes of Prabhsimran Singh and Ishan Kishan are tough to bowl to. But all of this was made easy by playing under Rajat bhaiya's captaincy. The role he gave me, I managed to fulfill that and it made life easy. The visualization has already begun Mangesh standing at the top of his run-up in RCB's iconic red jersey, with the new ball in hand, enough to give him goosebumps. But the ultimate dream still remains to be wearing Indias blue jersey. How exciting it will be to wear the RCB jersey and have the ball in hand at the top of my run-up mark. I hope that this paves the way for me to wear the Indian team jersey and bowl the first ball for my country. That will be an out of the world feeling. Rather than dwelling on IPL's magnitude, Mangesh plans to focus on absorbing lessons from Kohli, Patidar and Venkatesh Iyer to improve his craft. We will have a team camp, where I will prepare alongside with Virat sir, Venky and Rajat bhaiyas. I will learn from them by playing a lot of practice matches and improve along the way. I will get to be in touch with them, so it is going to be very helpful for me. What separates Mangesh from India's impressive stable of fast bowlers, Sharma argues, isn't just his left-arm pace - it's being that rare quick offering genuine all-round capabilities. The biggest thing is India has a lot of fast bowlers, but you won't get a perfect package like him. I can count them - Arshdeep, Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Shami. All of them are good bowlers. They play for India because they are good. But they won't be a batter or fielder like them. It's not that he is my child. I am talking about the language of cricket. Being a cricketer, he is a perfect package. In the future, if God keeps him healthy, you will see him play for India in a year or two. The financial windfall from the life-changing IPL deal means Mangesh can fulfill his off-field aspirations. Marrying off his three sisters with pomp and splendour tops his priority list, followed by giving his father respite from decades of grueling truck driving work and buying a house to end the familys stay in a rented home. His message to aspiring cricketers reflects hard-earned wisdom - that talent alone isn't enough, that even strong performances don't guarantee selection, and that persistence matters more than immediate results. What I have felt through my cricketing journey is without struggle, you won't get anything. You won't get anything easy and if you're playing cricket, you'll have to put in more effort, including the double of what is expected usually, as there are times when you won't get selected even if you perform well. His message to aspiring cricketers reflects hard-earned wisdom - that talent alone isn't enough, that even strong performances don't guarantee selection, and that persistence matters more than immediate results. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You just have to be true to yourself and your efforts. My seniors always tell me that I have to put my head down and play cricket. So it's important to respect everyone and keep your head down and play well when on the field, signed off Mangesh. Article Source: IANS

India dominant with bat and ball but fielding needs improvement

India dropped five catches in the series opener, including three straightforward ones

K Gowtham retires from all forms of cricket

Gowtham, 37, finishes with 394 wickets across formats for Karnataka in a domestic career that spanned for nearly 14 years

McGrath Questions England's Mentality After Australia Retain Ashes Title

The Boxing Day Test: Former Australia cricketer Glenn McGrath questioned England's approach after the visitors were handed defeat in the third Test of the Ashes series as hosts Australia on Sunday claimed the series 3-0 and defended the Ashes title. Australia stormed to an 82-run victory in the Adelaide Test, retaining the Ashes series after winning their third consecutive Test this series. Australia already have an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the five-match series after just 11 days of cricket, matching the fastest time frame in which the Ashes have been won in the past century, following easy victories in Perth and Brisbane. England have now gone 18 Tests without a win in Australia. England came here with a big reputation. We heard lots about how this was their best chance to win here since 2010-11, and how this was the worst Australia team since then. No one expected Australia to be 3-0 up after three Tests. We can criticise England - and plenty of people have - but we also must give immense credit to Australia for the way they have played, McGrath wrote in a column for BBC Sport. However, McGrath believes there was no lack in quality of the England players; rather, it's the mentality that is putting them down. The Australian great labelled captain Ben Stokes and Joe Root as the greatest of the generation, but they have yet to win a Test match in Australia. I do not believe England's long barren run in Australia is down to the quality of their players. Think of all the men who have been part of England's Ashes teams since they last won in Australia. Alastair Cook, Kevin Pietersen, James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Jofra Archer. The list goes on. Joe Root and Ben Stokes, the cornerstones of this current team and two of the greatest to ever play for England, have never won a Test here. If this long winless streak is not down to ability, it must be down to mentality. It was a tough fight from England's lower-order, particularly from wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith and all-rounder Brydon Carse. Their efforts raised hopes of a miracle, but a disciplined bowling attack kept the hosts in control, and they continued to hold the urn. Smith (60), Will Jacks (47), and Brydon Carse (38 not out) offered hope to Ben Stokes' team after England reached 207-6 on Saturday. Nonetheless, Mitchell Starc (3-62) brought Australia close to victory before Scott Boland dismissed Josh Tongue, ending the tourists' innings at 352 in pursuit of a record 435 to win. The Boxing Day Test at the MCG begins on December 26, and McGrath has urged England to adapt their style of play, predicting a strong fightback from the visitors as they embrace the challenge of performing in front of a crowd of 100,000 spectators. It was a tough fight from England's lower-order, particularly from wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith and all-rounder Brydon Carse. Their efforts raised hopes of a miracle, but a disciplined bowling attack kept the hosts in control, and they continued to hold the urn. Smith (60), Will Jacks (47), and Brydon Carse (38 not out) offered hope to Ben Stokes' team after England reached 207-6 on Saturday. Nonetheless, Mitchell Starc (3-62) brought Australia close to victory before Scott Boland dismissed Josh Tongue, ending the tourists' innings at 352 in pursuit of a record 435 to win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, if we're talking about mentality, it will not get any easier for England. They are due to play in front of 100,000 spectators at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, most of whom will be firmly behind Australia. The Boxing Day Test is an institution in Australian sport, and the atmosphere on Friday will be electric. It will be a tough place to be an English cricketer. England should embrace the challenge, react to it, and enjoy it. It could be a valuable lesson for the players who come back to Australia in four years, he said. Article Source: IANS

Krishnappa Gowtham Retires From All Forms Of Cricket

Karnataka State Cricket Association: Former India all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham has called time on his professional cricket career, announcing his retirement from all formats on Monday. The 37-year-old shared the news at a special press conference held at the KSCA Media Lounge, attended by Karnataka State Cricket Association president Venkatesh Prasad, vice-president Sujith Somasundar, and secretary Santosh Menon. Gowtham featured once for India at the international level, making his lone ODI appearance against Sri Lanka on July 23, 2021. His only international wicket came in that match, when he dismissed wicketkeeper Minod Bhanuka. He rose to prominence in the Indian Premier League when he became the most expensive uncapped Indian player at the IPL 2021 auction, after being snapped up by Chennai Super Kings for INR 9.25 crore. That record later changed hands, first with Avesh Khan and more recently with Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer at the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Across his IPL career, Gowtham has turned out for Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants. His final appearance in the league came in May 2024, representing Lucknow Super Giants against Sunrisers Hyderabad. In 36 IPL matches, the spin-bowling all-rounder scored 247 runs at a strike rate of 166.90, while also taking 21 wickets at an economy rate of 8.24. Beyond the IPL, he enjoyed solid returns in domestic cricket, finishing with 737 runs and 116 wickets from 32 first-class games. In List A cricket, he scored 400 runs and claimed 51 wickets in 32 matches, while his T20 career saw him amass 454 runs and take 32 wickets across 49 appearances. Across his IPL career, Gowtham has turned out for Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants. His final appearance in the league came in May 2024, representing Lucknow Super Giants against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gowtham also represented India A on multiple occasions and came close to earning further international caps in other formats. Known for his resilience and fierce competitiveness, he carved out a career built on grit and determination, leaving behind a reputation as a cricketer who consistently punched above his weight against elite opposition. Article Source: IANS

Ishan Kishan Named Captain As Jharkhand Announce Squad For Vijay Hazare Trophy

Jharkhand Squad For Vijay Hazare: India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been named captain of Jharkhand for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite (VHT) 2025/26, the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) confirmed. The domestic 50-over tournament begins on December 24, with Jharkhand set to open their campaign against Karnataka in Ahmedabad. The squad announced for the season features a mix of experience and youth, including Kumar Kushagra, Anukul Roy, Robin Minz, Abhinav Sharan and Virat Singh, as Jharkhand look to build on recent success in white-ball cricket. Kishans appointment follows a standout Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025/26 season, where he led Jharkhand to their maiden SMAT title. The wicketkeeper-batter was in outstanding form throughout the tournament, amassing 517 runs from 10 innings at an average of 57.44, with two hundreds and two half-centuries to his name. His defining moment came in the final against Haryana, where he struck a commanding 101 to guide his side to the championship. That run of performances has also earned Kishan a recall to the Indian squad for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. He has been included as the teams second-choice wicketkeeper-batter, behind Sanju Samson, marking a return to the national setup on the back of sustained domestic excellence. Kishans appointment follows a standout Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025/26 season, where he led Jharkhand to their maiden SMAT title. The wicketkeeper-batter was in outstanding form throughout the tournament, amassing 517 runs from 10 innings at an average of 57.44, with two hundreds and two half-centuries to his name. His defining moment came in the final against Haryana, where he struck a commanding 101 to guide his side to the championship. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jharkhand Squad For Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26: Ishan Kishan (WK & captain), Virat Singh, Utkarsh Singh, Kumar Kushagra (WK & vice-captain), Robin Minz, Anukul Roy, Sharandeep Singh, Shikhar Mohan, Pankaj Kumar (WK), Bala Krishna, Md Kounain Quraishi, Shubh Sharma, Amit Kumar, Manishi, Abhinav Sharan, Sushant Mishra, Vikash Singh, Saurabh Shekhar, Rajandeep Singh, Shubham Singh. Article Source: IANS

Cameron Green breaks IPL overseas record in move to Kolkata Knight Riders

The Australia allrounder was part of a bidding war which saw him finish with a AU$4.2 million deal

Suryakumar Yadav To Play Two Vijay Hazare Trophy Matches In Jan 2026

The Indian T20I: India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Shivam Dube have informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) of their availability for two Vijay Hazare Trophy fixtures scheduled for January 6 and 8. Mumbais 50-over campaign will get underway in Jaipur from December 24, with their opening league match against Sikkim on Wednesday. As per a report by Indian Express, Suryakumar and Dube are set to feature in the games against Himachal Pradesh on January 6 and the next against Punjab two days later. Surya and Dube have informed us that they will be playing two Vijay Hazare Trophy games on January 6th and 8th. Their names will be added in the Mumbai squad. As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he will be playing two league games at the moment, an MCA official was quoted as saying in the report. All players who were part of Indias recent 3-1 T20I series victory over South Africa have been directed to play at least two matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The BCCI has communicated this requirement to its contracted players, continuing a push for greater participation in domestic cricket. Earlier this year, selection committee chair Ajit Agarkar had stressed the importance of internationals turning out in domestic competitions whenever their schedules allow. I think we made it clear a year or a couple of years back that whenever players are available, they should be playing domestic cricket. I mean, thats the only way youll keep yourself sharp and playing cricket, if youve got a long enough break. Whether thats possible with the international cricket youre playing or not, that only time will tell, but if the guys are free, they should be playing domestic cricket, Agarkar had said. Earlier this year, selection committee chair Ajit Agarkar had stressed the importance of internationals turning out in domestic competitions whenever their schedules allow. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In the meantime, Rohit and Mumbai captain Shardul are expected to arrive in Jaipur on Monday and take part in a practice session the following day. Mumbais first two fixtures of the tournament are against Sikkim on December 24 and Uttarakhand on December 26, both to be played in Jaipur. Article Source: IANS

Meet Mohammad Izhar - The Left-arm Pacer From Bihar Who Caught The Eye Of Mumbai Indians

The Bihar Cricket Association: Mohammad Izhar had little time to savour the feeling of his IPL dream coming true. As his name was called out at the IPL 2026 auction, the left-arm pacer from Birpur in Bihars Supaul district was already racing against the clock - within 15-20 minutes, he needed to board a bus for a six-hour ride to Patna, where the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp awaited him. When the auction was on, I was at home with my brothers in law. While from the outside I was very excited and nervous, I was very anxious about whether my name will come in the auction or not. Finally, the Mumbai Indians picked me and it brought in a different level of happiness. While I was feeling very good and excited about getting a chance to be in IPL, I became very emotional. Though everyone began celebrating at home, I had to leave to catch the bus for Patna, so I didn't celebrate it much, Izhar recalled in an exclusive conversation with IANS. The five-time champions have been renowned for unearthing uncapped gems through a robust scouting system. Though they had a small purse in IPL 2026 auction, picking Izhar for his base price of Rs 30 lakh is very much a signal that they may have unearthed another gem in the making. Even as he remained engaged with the trials of Kolkata Knight Riders, Izhar recalled how the five-time champions chose patience in having a look at him. Though Mumbai Indians is a big franchise, they are so humble, which even words cannot explain. When they called me for a trial, I was at KKR's trial. But despite being such a big team, they waited for me to come for the trials. When I reached, I was very tired, but I saw they waited for me and told me to rest for a while, so that I could bowl comfortably after recovering. I rested well and then went through the trials very well. It's a very good franchise and the coaches there were very humble. Izhar's cricketing journey began in Birpur, a town in Supaul district, where tennis ball cricket was the gateway to bigger dreams. His transition to leather ball cricket came through a chance observation by his local mentor Jaichand, who spotted raw talent that others missed. Jaichand bhaiya and Birbal bhaiya got me into leather ball cricket and taught me a lot for the last 2-3 years. Previously, I played tennis ball cricket and in one of the games, Jaichand bhaiya saw me bowling and then he told me to start playing with a leather ball. I then went on to play for the district and initially it felt a little tough as I was straightaway playing these games without having played leather ball cricket before. But it began so well that I havent looked back after that. Birbal bhaiya is a star bowler himself. I learnt a lot from him and Jaichand, who himself was a cricketer, he added. Watching legendary fast bowlers Mitchell Starc, Shoaib Akhtar and Brett Lee also transformed Izhars casual interest into a Junoon (passion) to play cricket. Starc has always been my idol from the start. Then seeing Akhtar and Lee take wickets brought in a junoon in me about playing cricket. From the start, it was not like I will play for India or be in IPL. Gradually, I started playing and those thing started to come in my mind. You do get a good understanding of these things once you start to put yourself through the grind. I started setting aims that I want to play for the state and do well there. It was in my mind that I wanted to play in the IPL, though the goal of playing for India is still at the top. But I didn't anticipate that I will get picked this year. So, I am very thankful to God that I got picked for IPL this year. Like many young cricketers from smaller towns, Izhar's early journey wasn't paved with automatic support. Bihar's limited cricketing infrastructure meant initial struggles were there, but his father's growing belief in him transformed everything. When I started playing, my father started giving me a lot of support. He began to understand that I have games to play and do well in them. The support from him grew so much that he started taking care of everything around me by himself. Whenever I got small bruises, he would put a bandage quickly at home. The Bihar Cricket Association's faith proved equally crucial, especially after Izhar had a disappointing previous season. The backing from BCA officials, including previous President Rakesh Tiwari, allowed Izhar to rebuild confidence and rediscover form when it mattered most. Last year, I did not get anything great in terms of performances. I started preparing for this season early and the association trusted me to come good. So I am very thankful for that to all of them in BCA. I am very thankful for the chances because of which I got selected for the IPL. I had a good performance this time in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (taking nine wickets in five games in Kolkata), where the IPL scouts saw me, called me for trials, got into the auction and now I will be in IPL. Izhars bowling arsenal centers on both inswing and outswing, complemented by variations of slower ball essential for success in T20s. Operating around 135 kmph, Izhar acknowledges his game remains a work in progress, particularly his execution of yorker and consistency with swing deliveries. I also have the yorker in my repertoire, but I need to groom and polish it more. In all, I need to do everything better because I am not always perfect. Like my in swing and out swing is not perfect yet, and I need to work on it more. I always try to work on the small things and make my bowling better. Plus, there are some variations of slower ball that I need to polish and groom more. With an IPL deal in hand, Izhar will have access to two masters of the craft - Trent Boult, whose left-arm swing bowling mirrors Izhar's own style, and Jasprit Bumrah, whose yorkers and control have redefined modern-day fast bowling. Boult bowls with the left arm like me and Bumrah swings the ball well. His yorkers are deadly. I am going to learn a lot from them. For youngsters from modest cricketing outposts, Izhars rise carries a clear message: patience and persistence outweigh the lure of instant success. His journey from tennis-ball matches in Birpur to an IPL contract with MI stands as validation of that belief. With an IPL deal in hand, Izhar will have access to two masters of the craft - Trent Boult, whose left-arm swing bowling mirrors Izhar's own style, and Jasprit Bumrah, whose yorkers and control have redefined modern-day fast bowling. Boult bowls with the left arm like me and Bumrah swings the ball well. His yorkers are deadly. I am going to learn a lot from them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Now on the cusp of wearing MIs iconic blue and gold in IPL 2026, Izhars emergence adds fresh momentum to his promising cricketing story. It underlines once more that, with the right backing, cricketing talent can emerge from the games most unheralded corners. Article Source: IANS

West Indies captain says he 'let the team down' in New Zealand Tests

West Indies Test captain Roston Chase said Monday he felt he had let his team down with his performances in their 2-0 series loss to New Zealand. New Zealand wrapped up the series victory with a 323-run win on the final day of the third Test at Mount Maunganui, after an earlier draw in Christchurch and a win in Wellington. Chase took over the captaincy in March, his team registering seven losses and a draw in his eight matches in charge. He was a dejected figure at Bay Oval at the end of the fifth day, looking down on the field as Black Caps players celebrated their victory with their families. His pain was as much about the team failing to get a win in New Zealand as it was his own role in it. I had a tough series, very below par for my standards, and I didn't really lead from the front on the field, Chase said Leading in terms of words and encouraging and inspiring the team, that was all good and well, but in terms of going out there and producing for the team and letting the team have someone to look up to as a leader, I thought that I let myself down and the team down as well. Chase scored just 42 runs across six innings in the series, an average of seven. It was the second-lowest output in Test history for a captain dismissed six times in a series. With the ball, the offspinner took three wickets at an average of 119, although only the Bay Oval wicket offered any assistance to spinners. Chase said he wants to be a captain who affects performance on and off the field, but it hadn't happened. I want to go out there and show them that I'm not just talking it, I'm doing it as well and I'm giving my all for the team, Chase said. So, yeah, I was a bit disappointed with my efforts. I thought I got some good balls in the series, but it's test cricket, I still thought that I could have given more. Chase said he is working hard to correct some of his batting deficiencies shown up in New Zealand. That's an issue that the wider squad will have to consider, too, given their issues in scoring competitive totals in the first innings of matches. But there were positives. I thought the bowlers gave a good effort and they never stopped trying, Chase said. Before the series started, the goal for the batters was to at least get one hundred in every game, and we got three hundreds over the three-game period, so we were very happy with that. It's something that we've not been able to do in the recent past, getting hundreds. Now it's about putting it all together for the West Indies. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Star allrounder Justin Greaves, who made a double hundred to save the first Test in Christchurch, said Friday he believed the glory days could return to the West Indies.

'Disappointed' Nasser Hussain Feels England's Ashes Drubbing 'has Been No Different' From Past Defeats

Sky Sports Cricket: Former England captain Nasser Hussain has criticised Englands performance in the Ashes series against Australia, saying the latest campaign has proved o different from previous heavy defeats in Australia, despite a major change in approach. Australia have retained the Ashes with a dominant 82-run victory over England in the third Test in Adelaide on Sunday. The hosts clinched the series win midway through the final day of the Adelaide contest, with Scott Boland claiming the decisive wicket as England were bowled out for 352 in their second innings. Australia made it 3-0 in the five-game Ashes series. After England lost 4-0 four years ago, this has been the first away series loss of the Bazball era following the appointments of Brendon McCullum as head coach and Ben Stokes as captain in 2022. Speaking on the Ashes Daily podcast on Sky Sports Cricket after the third Test, Hussain said he initially welcomed Englands attempt to think differently after repeated failures in Australia. He noted that the team had planned ahead, made bold selections and focused on pace and aggressive batting to challenge Australian bowlers. I quite like the fact they have done things differently over the last four years since the last Ashes drubbing. I do like the fact they have thought differently; they have planned ahead. If you carry on doing what you have always done, you will get the same results, so they saw we need to do something different. I quite like that, they've thought ahead, said Hussain The former skipper also noted that Englands rethink was driven by history, as most touring sides have lost convincingly in Australia. He added that Joe Root, despite playing 17 Test matches in the country, has yet to record a win there. But actually, if you've come here and looked at them in the last three-four weeks you'd have thought 'is it really that different from any other England side?' They've not batted well, they've not bowled well, they've not caught well. Under key moments and pressure situations, they've buckled. Every other England side apart from the (Andrew) Strauss side [in 2010-11] has come here and lost and lost convincingly. Joe Root has now played 17 Test matches in Australia; he hasn't won one, he said. But actually, if you've come here and looked at them in the last three-four weeks you'd have thought 'is it really that different from any other England side?' They've not batted well, they've not bowled well, they've not caught well. Under key moments and pressure situations, they've buckled. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So that's why there was this rethink... even after the massive rethink and left-field selections and 'we must have pace' and 'we must have batters that put bowlers under pressure', actually we've ended up getting exactly what we've had on virtually every other Ashes tour, and that's what disappoints me because I thought this time, with this opposition, it might have been slightly different. It has been no different, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Sakib Hussain Ready For Fresh Start In IPL Bandwagon After Being Picked By SRH

Tunna Giri Cricket Academy: Sakib Hussain was at Bihars Vijay Hazare Trophy camp in Patna when Sunrisers Hyderabad picked him for his base price of Rs 30 lakh at the IPL 2026 auction. The move marks the start of a new IPL chapter for Hussain, the right-arm pacer who tasted championship glory with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2024, though he didnt get to play a single game. At the time of the auction, we were at the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp in Patna. When SRH picked me, I felt really good because the things where I had my shortcomings, I did improve on them during the IPL and implemented that in domestic games. I have made sure to leave no stone unturned in overcoming those shortcomings and do well whenever a chance comes to play in the tournament, said Hussain in an exclusive conversation with IANS. Hussains path of coming back to the IPL involved trials with Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and KKR before SRH got him in the auction. Shortly after that, he received an encouraging call from the franchise's bowling coach and former India pacer Varun Aaron. Varun Aaron told me to get ready and that I have to do well and move ahead by working hard. On hearing this, first of all, I thanked him and the SRH team for taking me in. He replied back by telling me that this is just the fruit of your hardwork. Despite not getting a game in IPL 2024, Hussains time with KKR proved invaluable, as the Gopalganj native got masterclass from some of cricket's biggest names like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh and coach Abhishek Nayar. All of them taught me a lot of good things. Like, the way they planned, playing with a different mindset on match day, and how to judge a player, I got to learn a lot of things there, he said. Hussain also learnt a valuable lesson in KKR - that physical talent alone wouldn't separate the good from the great at a higher level. In my time of being in KKR, one big thing I learnt was cricket is a mind game. The one who thinks well plays well on the field. Everyone is talented, but the one who thinks well, plays well. In the IPL, on a daily basis, you have to think and plan about what to do. Sometimes you have to change your plan in seconds and I got to learn about how to do that. Hussains journey traces back to humble beginnings at Tunna Giri Cricket Academy in Gopalganj, where coach Robin Singh became his pillar of support through every high and low. People like Saket bhaiya, Kumar bhaiya at the academy have supported me. My coach Robin Singh is the most special person in my life. He has helped me through ups and downs, as well as been in my good and bad times. Hes supported me a lot, he said. He also credited the Bihar Cricket Association leadership - President Harsh Vardhan, Rakesh Tiwari, and Secretary Rahul - for creating pathways that helped a small-town cricketer like him to play at the highest level. They all have helped me in going from playing in a small town to such a big stage. They have supported me a lot and I would like to thank them from the bottom of my heart. Looking ahead to his stint with SRH, Hussain is eager to learn from captain Pat Cummins and other international stars in the setup. In IPL, you get a good coach and mentor who can guide you well. But everywhere you go, the main interest is in playing at any given opportunity and that aids your growth. In the Hyderabad team, a lot of legendary players like skipper Pat Cummins are present, as I will get to learn a lot and carry those lessons very well. Hussains bustling pace in his domestic performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, particularly a remarkable 10-wicket haul against Arunachal Pradesh in the first half of Ranji Trophy and taking six wickets in Bihars Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league games in Kolkata. In matches, I just keep things simple and focus on what I want to do, which was to pick timely breakthroughs. It also helps that I never think too far and keep focus on doing things in the present moment in the match. Hussains bustling pace in his domestic performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, particularly a remarkable 10-wicket haul against Arunachal Pradesh in the first half of Ranji Trophy and taking six wickets in Bihars Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league games in Kolkata. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having experienced the euphoria of an IPL title with KKR, Hussain signed off by saying hes hungry to recreate that success in SRH colours. Definitely we will try to become the winning team again in the IPL next year. It will be very good to have a picture there with the trophy again on my Instagram profile. I am very excited to learn a lot and do well to win the trophy for SRH this time. Article Source: IANS

Thailands Nattaya Boochatham, Rosenan Kano Retire From International Cricket

ICC Emerging Nations Trophy: In a surprising move, two long-serving women cricketers of Thailand, Nattaya Boochatham and Rosenan Kanoh, announced their retirements from international cricket after claiming their sixth consecutive gold medal in the Womens T20 competition at the SEA Games Thailand 2025. Veteran all-rounder Nattaya Boochatham confirmed the final was the last appearance of her international career. At 39, she has been a central figure in Thailands rise on the regional and global stage, consistently contributing as a left-handed top-order batter and a reliable off-spinner. The gold-medal win against Malaysia provided a fitting end to Boochathams time in national colours. A cornerstone of the Thailand womens team for more than a decade, she played key roles in the sides successes across ICC and ACC tournaments, including appearances at the 2020 ICC Womens T20 World Cup in Australia and multiple Asia Cup campaigns. She was also part of the squad that recently lifted the ICC Emerging Nations Trophy. Boochatham finished her career with more than 100 wickets in official womens T20 internationals, a mark that stood as a national record until Thipatcha Putthawong surpassed it recently. Her value as a dependable all-rounder leaves a significant gap as Thailand transitions into their next phase. Joining her in retirement was all-rounder Rosenan Kanoh, who ended her international career on a high during the same final. Thailand were under pressure at 19/3 while chasing a modest target of 59 when the 26-year-old walked to the crease. Boochatham finished her career with more than 100 wickets in official womens T20 internationals, a mark that stood as a national record until Thipatcha Putthawong surpassed it recently. Her value as a dependable all-rounder leaves a significant gap as Thailand transitions into their next phase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As Thailand women's cricket moves forward, the impact and legacy of both Boochatham and Kanoh will remain deeply woven into the teams international journey. Article Source: IANS

Gill, Arshdeep, Abhishek Named In Punjab's 18-man Vijay Hazare Trophy Squad

New Zealand T20Is: India openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, along with pacer Arshdeep Singh, have been named in Punjab's 18-man Vijay Hazare Trophy squad Alongside the trio, the squad also includes Prabhsimran Singh, Naman Dhir, Anmolpreet Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Sanvir Singh, Harpreet Brar, Gurnoor Brar and Krish Bhagat. Punjab, who were last season's quarterfinalists, are slotted in Elite Group C and will begin their campaign against Maharashtra on December 24, playing all seven league matches in Jaipur. The league-stage fixtures conclude on January 8, three days before India's first ODI. Gill, Abhishek and Arshdeep's availability, however, remains unclear, as India are scheduled to play three ODIs against New Zealand starting January 11, followed by five T20Is from January 21. Gill, who was dropped from the T20I squad for the T20 World Cup and the New Zealand T20Is, will captain the ODI side, while Abhishek and Arshdeep are part of the T20I squad. With a three-week gap between Indias final T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad on December 19 and the opening ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, this window can be utilised by all India players to play in the 50-over domestic competition for their respective states. Earlier, Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant had already been included in Delhis probables list, and the duo will be available for Delhi till Indias ODI series against New Zealand happens from January 11 to 17, 2026. Meanwhile, former skipper Rohit Sharma was also named in the Mumbai squad for the first two Vijay Hazare Trophy games. With a three-week gap between Indias final T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad on December 19 and the opening ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, this window can be utilised by all India players to play in the 50-over domestic competition for their respective states. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Harnoor Pannu, Anmolpreet Singh, Uday Saharan, Naman Dhir, Salil Arora (wk), Sanvir Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Jashanpreet Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Harpreet Brar, Raghu Sharma, Krish Bhagat, Gourav Choudhary, Sukhdeep Bajwa Article Source: IANS

Nepal Name 24-player Group For Training Camp Ahead Of T20 WC

T20 World Cup Asia: Nepal have announced a 24-player group that will help determine their final squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The 24-player list that will attend a training camp ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup will determine their final squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with selectors needing to reduce the size of the group to 15 players prior to the next edition of the 20-over showcase in India and Sri Lanka, starting on February 7. Nepal have stuck with the 16 members that performed well when defeating the West Indies 2-1 during the T20I series in September and October and added a further eight players into contention, such as Sher Malla, Binod Bhandari, Abinash Bohara and Bashir Ahmed, who impressed during the recent Nepal Premier League, ICC reports. Nepal qualified for the 2026 T20 World Cup with an unbeaten run at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia-Pacific Regional Final in Oman in October and will compete in the tournament for a second consecutive time and third overall. Nepal are drawn in Group C at the T20 World Cup and will play against England, the West Indies, Bangladesh and Italy. The 20-team tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka across 29 days and eight venues (five in India and three in Sri Lanka). A total of 40 group matches will be played between February 7-20, with the top two sides from each group then progressing to the Super Eights phase of the tournament that commences on February 21. The 20-team tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka across 29 days and eight venues (five in India and three in Sri Lanka). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Nepal training camp squad: Rohit Paudel, Dipendra Singh Airee, Sandeep Lamichhane, Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Kushal Malla, Sundeep Jora, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav, Lalit Rajbanshi, Lokesh Bam, Aarif Sheikh, Aadil Ansari, Karan KC, Sahab Alam, Sher Malla, Bhim Sharki, Ishan Pandey, Basir Ahamad, Binod Bhandari, Abinash Bohora, Pratish GC, Rupesh K Singh Article Source: IANS

Ashes: Jhye Richardson Likely To Be Added To Australias Camp Ahead Of Boxing Day Test

Boxing Day Test: Right-arm quick Jhye Richardson is likely to be included in the XI for the Boxing Day Test of the Ashes series after recovering from shoulder surgery. After undergoing surgery in January, Richardson returned to cricket with his club, Fremantle, last month. He also spent time with the Test squad ahead of the Ashes opener in Perth, before playing for a Cricket Australia XI and Australia A against England Lions. Richardson got a golden chance to push his claims for a Test recall after taking 4-35 against the England Lions, as he was called in to bowl with Australia's Test attack ahead of the third Ashes Test. With skipper Pat Cummins expected to sit out the Melbourne Test, and potentially the rest of the series, this will open the vacancy in the pace attack, meaning Richardson is very close to being in consideration. The fact that Richardson has been called into camp to bowl in front of the coaching staff shows he remains very much in Australia's plans, despite playing his last Test in December 2022. Moreover, with veteran spinner Nathan Lyon being ruled out of the series with a hamstring injury, Australia will need to figure out a replacement for the veteran of 141 Tests. Todd Murphy is likely the frontrunner to replace Lyon in the squad, with Corey Rocchiccioli, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitch Swepson and Cooper Connolly also in the fray. Moreover, with veteran spinner Nathan Lyon being ruled out of the series with a hamstring injury, Australia will need to figure out a replacement for the veteran of 141 Tests. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Murphy was called in as Lyon's injury replacement during the 2023 Ashes and returned to the Test team against Sri Lanka in January this year, taking one wicket in Australia's innings victory. Article Source: IANS

Broad Says He Does Not 'regret' Calling Australia worst Side In 15 Years After Hosts Retain The Ashes

For The Love: Former England pacer Stuart Broad has doubled down on his assertion that the current Australian side is the weakest Ashes team England have faced in 15 years, despite the hosts referencing his comments during their celebrations in Adelaide. Ahead of the series, Broad had claimed Australia were at their lowest ebb since England last won the Ashes in Australia in 201011, describing his assessment as not an opinion but a fact. He cited Australia's transition and uncertainty around selection as the basis for his view. Those remarks clearly resonated within the Australian camp. After Australia secured the Ashes with victory in the third Test in Adelaide, Marnus Labuschagne referenced Broads comments during a post-match interview with the ABC. Travis Head later added fuel to the fire by posting a photo of himself alongside captain Pat Cummins on social media, captioned Is it 2010 yet? followed by three laughing emojis. Speaking following Australias 82-run win that gave the hosts an unassailable 3-0 series lead, Broad maintained that his original comments still stood, arguing England had failed to perform anywhere near their potential. Do I regret saying that? No. I did say Australia would have to play very badly and England would have to play very well. Australia haven't played very badly, and England haven't played very well, Broad said on his For The Love of Cricket podcast. Speaking following Australias 82-run win that gave the hosts an unassailable 3-0 series lead, Broad maintained that his original comments still stood, arguing England had failed to perform anywhere near their potential. Also Read: Live Cricket Score From England's point of view, what would they have liked coming into this series? A lot of things have gone England's way. But England haven't been good enough ultimately. Australia have been relentless in what they've done. Do I think the 2013-14 (Australian team) man-for-man was a better side? Yes, probably still. I don't think individually they are better than any other team since 2010-11, but they've been relentless in the pressure they've managed to put on England. Article Source: IANS

Gill, Abhishek and Arshdeep named in Punjab's Vijay Hazare Trophy squad

How many games they will feature in, though, is unclear with India playing New Zealand in an ODI and T20I series starting January 11

Sachin Tendulkar and Cricket Legends Pay Emotional Tribute to Dharmendra

Veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra, 89, died recently after a long illness. A lot has been written about his films and his versatility. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honour, for his work. He left a legacy in films, had a fan base that crosses borders and was equally popular in non-film zones which included sports. Thats why various sports persons also paid him glowing tributes describing him a legend and icon of Indian cinema, whose work left a lasting mark on the masses. 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, said Virat Kohli. I, like many others, took an instant liking to Dharmendra ji, the actor, who entertained us with his versatility. That on-screen bond became stronger off-screen when I met him. His energy was incredibly infectious, and he would always tell me, Tumko dekhkar ek kilo khoon badh jaata hai mera. He had an effortless warmth, making everyone around him feel valued and special. Aisa lagta hai jaise mera 10 kilo khoon kam ho gaya hai. Will miss you, said Sachin Tendulkar. Several Pakistani cricketers also paid a moving tribute to the star, calling him a global legend. Dharmendra ji was a legendary hero, and Sholay remains an all-time classic. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy across the subcontinent and was immensely popular in Pakistan as well. My deepest condolences, said former captain Rashid Latif. Dharmendra was a huge cricket fan and regularly followed the Indian cricket team and many a times openly praised players for their performances. Once he shared a photograph on social media of a chance encounter with Sachin Tendulkar on a flight and captioned it, Desh ke gauravshaali Sachin se aaj achanak hawai jahaz mein mulaqat ho gai. Sachin jab jab mila mujhe hamesha mera pyaara beta ban ke mila Jeete raho. Love you, Sachin. Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir also paid his condolences and revealed that Dharmendra was the favourite actor in his household. He added that his personality and charisma were like none other. Mohammed Siraj will also never forget him. On Indias historic Test series triumph against Australia in 2021, Dharmendra praised Indian pacer from his heart, not just for his heroics with the ball, but for his emotional strength. Siraj had remained with the Indian team despite the tragic loss of his father during the tour and fulfilled his late fathers dream of playing Test cricket. He claimed 13 wickets in the series and helped India in winning the series by 21. When Siraj returned India, he drove straight from the Hyderabad airport to Khairtabad graveyard to pay his respects to his father and this deeply moved Dharmendra, and he penned an emotional note, Siraj , Brave heart son of India Love you Naaz hai tujh par, dil par walid ki maut ka sdma liye tum watan ki Aan ke liye match khelte rahe ..aur ek unhoni jeet watan ke naam darj kar ke lote..Kal tujhe apne walid ki qabbr par dekh kar mun bhar aya. PT Usha, one of India's greatest athletes, often called the country's queen of track and field who won 23 medals in all, 14 of which were gold, is now a MP as well as the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). She recently shared a secret while paying a tribute to the late actor and disclosed that the Bollywood legend had gifted her a princely sum of Rs.50,000 as a private token of appreciation for her performance at the Seoul Asian Games 1986, where she won four gold and one silver medal. On an inflation calculator, that amount is worth approximately Rs.4.26 lakh today. The best part was that the gesture was made quietly, without disclosing to media, for publicity and never sought an acknowledgement. This was a sign of his humility and genuine support for sports. Incidentally PT Usha now regrets that she never got to meet Dharmendra in person, We couldn't meet personally due to our busy schedules but sometimes love & affection are enough to keep the hearts connected even 1000 miles apart. Veteran film star Sharmila Tagore remembered him with the note, Stardom can make people larger than life. Dharmendra, paradoxically, became larger by remaining human. She worked with him in many films and she also disclosed a cricket story. The India-West Indies Kolkata Test was played from 31 December 1966 to 5 January 1967, and the last day of the Test was the birthday of India captain Tiger (Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi). During those days Sharmila Tagore was dating Pataudi and wanted to wish him his birthday in person. At that time Sharmila Tagore and Dharmendra were working together filming Mere Hamdam Mere Dost. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She wanted to take an early morning flight from Mumbai to be in Kolkata for the match, and to celebrate Tigers birthday but also didnt want the producer to suffer due to her sudden absence. She requested Dharmendra for an all-nighter, which he graciously agreed and shot till 7 am. No disclosure, no story and he never spoke of the inconvenience of working the whole night. However, this gesture helped Sharmila to board the flight that morning, without a guilt of putting producer in any inconvenience or loss.

Duffy Is Operating At Peak Efficiency, Sensational Coup: Ashwin

World Test Championship: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was full of praise for New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy, whose five-wicket haul on Day 5 of the final Test against West Indies on Monday helped his side clinch a 2-0 victory in the three-game series. Duffy registered 5/42 in the West Indies' second innings as the Caribbean side was dismissed for 138 while chasing an unlikely victory target of 462. The fast bowler also set a new New Zealand record, surpassing Kiwi legend Richard Hadlee's previous mark of 80 wickets in a calendar year, thanks to his third five-wicket haul of the series. Duffy will conclude the 2025 calendar year with 81 international wickets, setting a new record for the Black Caps. His 23 wickets throughout the series contributed to New Zealand's 2-0 series victory, marking a strong start to their World Test Championship campaign. The fast bowler also set a new New Zealand record, surpassing Kiwi legend Richard Hadlee's previous mark of 80 wickets in a calendar year, thanks to his third five-wicket haul of the series. Duffy will conclude the 2025 calendar year with 81 international wickets, setting a new record for the Black Caps. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On the fifth day at Mount Maunganui, Duffy led the charge as the hosts achieved a 323-run victory in the last session, having started the day with a likely draw. The fast bowler dismissed top-scorer Brandon King (67) and then tore through the middle order of Alick Athanaze, Justin Greaves, and Roston Chase, giving up just seven runs combined. He also took the final wicket, clinching the win. Article Source: IANS

Jhye Richardson closing in on return to Australia's Test squad

The quick bowler would bolster Australia's pace resources for Melbourne with Pat Cummins set to sit out

McCullum admits errors in Ashes preparations as England look to salvage pride

Coach Brendon McCullum concedes England got their preparations wrong heading into the Ashes, but believes they can salvage some pride in the final two Tests at Melbourne and Sydney. The tourists arrived in Australia bullish that they could win a series in the country for the first time since 2010-11. But their hopes imploded with heavy defeats in Perth and Brisbane before a closer contest at Adelaide, leaving the ultra-aggressive Bazball style of cricket McCullum and skipper Ben Stokes pioneered in tatters. Their Ashes demise in just 11 days was the joint-second quickest in more than a century. England had just one warm-up fixture in Australia, against their second-tier Lions side, and lost the opening Test in Perth inside two days. Former captains Ian Botham, Michael Vaughan and Graham Gooch all criticised the limited preparation, with disgruntled skipper Ben Stokes sparking a backlash after calling them has beens. They then opted to skip a pink-ball opportunity in Canberra before the day-night second Test at the Gabba, instead spending five days in the Brisbane nets. Like Perth, that Test was lost by eight wickets and McCullum bizarrely claimed they had overprepared. What did we get right? What did we get wrong? Probably we go back to the preparation, that'll be something that gets questioned, McCullum told TNT Sports after the 82-run Adelaide defeat. And when you've lost 3-0, you need to put your hand up and say 'maybe I didn't get that preparation right'. It's not just leading into the first game. It's could we have done more leading into game one and could we have done less leading into game two? I didn't get that right because we lost 3-0. Lots to digest, look through and be better next time. The fourth Test starts in Melbourne on December 26 and England could freshen up the side. -- 'Great opportunity' - An under-performing Ollie Pope is facing the axe with Jacob Bethell waiting in the wings, but their options are limited and McCullum said they would not be looking outside the squad they have. We'll have a look a look at the conditions (in Melbourne) and, as we always do, we'll try and work out what we think will give us the best chance in that game, he said. If that's changes, it's changes. If it's not, it's not. We'll assess that when we get to Melbourne. England at least showed more fight in Adelaide as they chased what would have been a world record 435 to win. McCullum admitted they had been outplayed across all three Tests, but said he saw encouraging signs in Adelaide and we do have a great opportunity in the next two Tests. We need to find something out of this tour, salvage some pride and play for all the people who have come to Australia to support this team and all the people back in England who have supported this team as well, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If we get into that state where we just play the game and immerse yourself in the state of what needs to be done and allow your talent to come out in pressure situations, then you've got every opportunity.

Dubai Capitals beat Gulf Giants by six wickets ILT20

Also Read: Live Cricket Score

Was Nervous Before National Anthem But Happy To Execute My Plan: Vaishnavi Sharma

Rajasekhara Reddy ACA: Indias young spinner Vaishnavi Sharma is keen to build on a promising start to her international career and establish herself as a regular in the teams white-ball plans. The 20-year-old made her senior India debut against Sri Lanka in Vizag on Sunday and delivered a tidy performance in the opening match of the series. Vaishnavi bowled an economical four-over spell, registering 0/16 at an economy of 4, in Indias dominant eight-wicket win, keeping the Sri Lankan batters in check throughout her spell. Although she did not claim a wicket, the 20-year-old impressed with her control and discipline, conceding no boundaries against a strong Sri Lankan batting line-up. She looked composed on debut at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium and slotted seamlessly into the side. Speaking to the media after the match, she acknowledged feeling nervous before the game but said those feelings faded once play began. I was nervous before the national anthem. After that, I calmed down. I am very happy that I was able to execute my plan. There are four more matches to go (in the series), Vaishnavi said. Vaishnavi earned her maiden international cap after a standout showing at the ICC Under-19 Womens T20 World Cup earlier this year. She finished the tournament as the leading wicket-taker, claiming 17 wickets at a remarkable average of 4.35. I was nervous before the national anthem. After that, I calmed down. I am very happy that I was able to execute my plan. There are four more matches to go (in the series), Vaishnavi said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We have worked hard for this. Our dream is to represent India and contribute. I cant say much about the future. Lets leave it to God, she said. Article Source: IANS

NZ Beat WI By 323 Runs In Third Test To Seal Series 2-0

Mt Maunganui: Jacob Duffy claimed a fifer in the second innings as New Zealand registered a massive 323-run victory in the final Test against the West Indies and sealed the three-match series 2-0. The first Test at Hagley Oval was drawn, while New Zealand won the second by nine wickets. Duffy's five-wicket haul in the second innings gave him his career-best match figures of 9 for 128, while Ajaz Patel recorded his best innings and match figures at home (3-23 and 6-136, respectively) as the West Indies were dismissed for 138 in their chase of 462 runs. The visitors began the final day on 43 without loss; the Windies openers, Brandon King and John Campbell, got through the first hour intact, having reached 74 for no loss by the drinks break. Afterwards, the West Indies lost five wickets for 11 runs and 10 overs. The breakthrough came shortly after drinks, when Duffy got the better of King (67), who was undone by a short ball that climbed awkwardly and took the glove. Soon after, left-arm spinner Patel struck, ending Campbell's 105-ball stay. That wicket triggered a rapid slide: Kavem Hodge prodded defensively and lobbed a chance off Ajaz to short leg, where Rachin Ravindra reacted sharply to complete a stunning catch on the rebound. The collapse continued when Alick Athanaze threw his hands at a loose drive, only to edge the ball to the wicketkeeper. Justin Greaves followed soon after, surviving just 13 deliveries before a probing back-of-a-length ball seamed away, took the outside edge, and was safely pouched low at first slip by Daryl Mitchell. From a solid 87 for no loss, West Indies were quickly reduced to 99 for 5 at Lunch, with Shai Hope and Roston Chase steadying the ship. The duo's partnership, which lasted 56 balls, yielded only 6 runs before Chase became Duffy's fourth victim. Hope stone-walled the New Zealand attack in his 78-ball stay, scoring three runs, before Ajaz trapped him in front. Glenn Phillips struck next to dismiss Kemar Roach, while Tevin Imlach dug in to offer some resistance, with Anderson Phillip providing support as West Indies reached 138/8 at Tea. The duo's partnership, which lasted 56 balls, yielded only 6 runs before Chase became Duffy's fourth victim. Hope stone-walled the New Zealand attack in his 78-ball stay, scoring three runs, before Ajaz trapped him in front. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: New Zealand 578/8d (Devon Conway 227, Tom Latham 137; Justin Greaves 2-83) & 306/2d (Tom Latham 101, Devon Conway 100; Kavem Hodge 2-80) beat West Indies 420 (Kavem Hodge 123*; Jacob Duffy 4-86, Ajaz Patel 3-113) & 138 (Brandon King 67; Jacob Duffy 5-42, Ajaz Patel 3-23) by 323 runs. Article Source: IANS

Duffy, Ajaz rip through West Indies as New Zealand seal series 2-0

WI went from 87 for 0 to 138 all out on the final day of the Mount Maunganui Test

Bundesliga: Bayern Cruise Through Heidenheim To Close Year In Control

Bayern Munich: Bundesliga leader Bayern Munich thrashed bottom side Heidenheim 4-0 away to finish 2025 nine points clear at the top heading into the winter break. Despite arriving with several senior absentees, Vincent Kompany's side dominated from the opening minutes, monopolising possession and pinning the hosts deep in their own half. Bayern's reshuffled lineup showed little sign of disruption, circulating the ball with speed and precision as Heidenheim struggled to mount sustained resistance, reports Xinhua. The breakthrough came in the 15th minute. Michael Olise delivered a corner to the far post, Jonathan Tah headed the ball back across goal and Josip Stanisic reacted quickest to nod in from close range. Bayern doubled its lead just after the half-hour mark when a long ball was poorly dealt with by goalkeeper Diant Ramaj, allowing Hiroki Ito to recycle possession and Olise to finish calmly from close range for 2-0 in the 32nd minute. Heidenheim showed more intent after the break following a double substitution and briefly threatened to reduce the deficit. Stefan Schimmer came closest when his header struck the crossbar in the 56th minute, while Bayern loanee Arijon Ibrahimovic later fired over from a promising position. At the other end, Harry Kane struck the post as Bayern continued to pose a threat without overcommitting. The visitors retained full control of the tempo and introduced two young players for their Bundesliga debuts as the game wore on. Bayern sealed the result late, with Luis Diaz heading in a cross from Stanisic in the 86th minute before Kane completed the scoring in stoppage time with a low finish for his 19th league goal of the season. The strike marked his 100th goal contribution in the Bundesliga. Heidenheim showed more intent after the break following a double substitution and briefly threatened to reduce the deficit. Stefan Schimmer came closest when his header struck the crossbar in the 56th minute, while Bayern loanee Arijon Ibrahimovic later fired over from a promising position. At the other end, Harry Kane struck the post as Bayern continued to pose a threat without overcommitting. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The first half was really strong, and we controlled the game well, said Kane. After the break we were a bit sloppy and gave them some counters, but overall, it was a solid, clinical win. Article Source: IANS

Starc calls for ICC to foot the DRS bill

Fast bowler queries why one technology provider is not used across all international matches to help with DRS consistency

Starc backs Lyon to have hunger for another rehab

The fast bowler referenced the pre-series talk around the age of the Australia side, suggesting the experience proved vital

Scoring Big Against India Will Remain The Most Memorable Achievement, Says Sameer After Helping Pak U19 Win Asian Title

Telecom Asia Sport: Pakistan's Under-19 batter Sameer Minhas fulfilled a childhood dream as he hammered a brilliant 172 off 113 balls to help his team defeat archrivals India by a massive 191-run margin in the final and won the Under-19s Asia Cup title in Dubai on Sunday. When Sameer Minhas picked up the bat at nine, he always dreamt of scoring big in a major final, and on Sunday, his dream came true with his belligerent knock, a report said on Sunday. Minhas' 113-ball knock, studded with nine sixes and 17 boundaries, lifted Pakistan to an imperious 347/8 before their pace trio of Ali Raza, Abdul Subhan, and Mohammad Sayyam shared eight wickets between them to skittle out India for a meagre 156 in 26.2 overs to give Pakistan a big win. Minhas comes from a cricketing family with his elder brother Arafat having played four T20Is for Pakistan and father Kashif, a good club-level cricketer in Multan. It was my childhood dream to do something memorable in cricket, and I am happy that I have done the first memorable thing with this hundred, which will remain memorable throughout my career, and the icing on the cake is that I did it against India, Minhas was quoted as saying by Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net). This was Pakistan's seventh win over India in 11 outings at the Junior level since 2019. It was also an encore of the Champions Trophy in 2017, where Pakistan lost the group match but went on to win the title with an 180-run win in the final. Minhas, who was adjudged the Player of the Match for the final and the Player of the Tournament, said the Asia Cup win was discussed on the eve of the final. Sarfaraz Sir mentioned this and made us believe in our ability that we can beat the Indian team, he told www.telecomasia.net. According to the report, Minhas did not feel any extra pressure of playing against India. We played them before in the tournament, so there was no pressure, and when they put us in to bat, we were happy that if we managed to put a good total, they would be under pressure. The report also said that on Sunday, the Multan house of Minhas was buzzing since morning as the family was expecting a good show from their boy. According to the report, Minhas did not feel any extra pressure of playing against India. We played them before in the tournament, so there was no pressure, and when they put us in to bat, we were happy that if we managed to put a good total, they would be under pressure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kashif raised his sons with hard work and honesty, having been involved in the selling business, mangoes exporter, as well as dealing in traditional Multan halwa (sweet), the report said. Article Source: IANS

Suzie Bates ruled out for three months with quadricep injury

She will miss New Zealand's upcoming home series against Zimbabwe in February-March 2026

Kane Williamson Says 'Series By Series' Call On New Zealand Test Future

When Kane Williamson leaves the Bay Oval field on Monday at the end of the Black Caps' third Test against the West Indies, he may never don New Zealand whites again. The Black Caps' finest ever batsman, boasting 9,461 Test runs to his name at an average of 54.7, said Sunday he will ask himself whether it's his last Test as his team chases a day five victory in Mount Maunganui. As you get to the latter stages (of your career) those thoughts certainly enter your mind, said the 35-year-old. Williamson has not made a concrete decision over his future in Test cricket, but he is leaning more towards family than cricketing commitment. It's almost series by series, Williamson said of his commitment to the Black Caps. After the West Indies Test series there's a pretty large block away from the (Black Caps), and there will be more conversations had. We'll just cross those bridges as they come. What is clear is Williamson is no longer prioritising his role with New Zealand. On Tuesday, Williamson and his family will fly to South Africa where he will play in the SA20 tournament. Williamson is no longer obliged to play for New Zealand, having signed a casual playing agreement that gives him freedom to pick and choose when he is available. It will be six months before Williamson might consider New Zealand's call again, first for a one-off Test against Ireland in May 2026, and then a three-match series against England in June. New Zealand host India for two Test matches in October and November, before a four-Test tour to Australia in December 2026 and January 2027. Going to England and Australia are really mouth-watering prospects and great opportunities because they are tough tours, Williamson said. I've been involved with a few of them before, and my position is still the same, executing that balance (between family and cricket) as well as I can. Many Black Caps fans hoped Williamson would be the first New Zealander to cross the 10,000 run threshold before he hangs up his hat. It is likely that if he were to make himself available, he would hit that mark in 2026. But Williamson said he is not driven by stats, or his place in the history books. I've never used this team for my own personal gain, Williamson said. I know cricket's saturated in stats, but you're wanting to go out and contribute to a team that you care about, so whatever runs you get aren't really yours, they're for the team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score

1st T20I: Jemimah's 69 Not Out, Bowlers Help India Women Beat Sri Lanka By Eight Wickets

Rajasekhara Reddy ACA: Jemimah Rodrigues continued her superb form from the Women's ODI World Cup as she slammed an unbeaten half-century to help India capitalise on a good bowling performance to beat Sri Lanka by eight wickets in the first match of the five-match women's T20I series in Visakhapatnam. After the Indian bowlers came up with a superb performance to restrict Sri Lanka to a modest 121/6 in 20 overs, Jemimah, who scored a century to help India reach the World Cup final, scored 69 not out off 44 balls on Sunday and helped India race to 122/2 at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium and win the match with 32 balls to score. Jemimah scored her half-century off 34 balls as she struck 10 boundaries and shared two half-century partnerships -- 54 for the second wicket stand with Smriti Mandhana, who scored a run-a-ball 25 after India lost Shafali Verma (9) early, and an unfinished 55-run partnership with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur for the third wicket. Jemimah built her knock with patience and then unleashed some superb shots, was quick on her feet, played late cuts superbly, and ran brilliantly, at times egging Mandhana and Harmanpreet to put in an extra effort. Mandhana and Rodrigues repaired the Indian innings after Verma clipped Kawya Kavindi to square leg, where Gimhani picked a smart catch, diving forward. Smriti was her usual left, cautious, and patient as he scored 25, becoming the first Indian batter to reach 4000 runs in women's T20I cricket. She hit four boundaries before being caught by Nilakshika Silva at deep extra cover off Inoka Ranaweera. Rodrigues found a willing partner in skipper Harmanpreet Kaur as they guided India to a comprehensive win with the captain scoring 15 not out as India went up 1-0 in the five-match series. Earlier, the bowlers made an easy win possible for India in a match in which both teams were hampered by copious dew. After skipper Harmanpreet Kaur elected to field on winning the toss in their first outing since winning the Women's ODI World Cup in Navi Mumbai, the Indian bowlers strangled the Sri Lankan batters despite atrocious fielding that included a few dropped catches, misfields and a six palmed-over by Smriti Mandhana as the 50 overs World Champions struggled to adjust with the short format, which they were playing after a big break. The Sri Lankans were not much better and struggled with the T20 format after they lost skipper Chamari Athapaththu for 15 off 12 balls as they managed to score only 31/1 in the Power-play. The Sri Lankan captain struck three fours in the first couple of overs before Kranti Gaud managed to sneak a ball through the gap between the bat and pad to rattle the stumps for her first Women's T20I wicket. Though debutant spinner Vaishavi Sharma failed to get a wicket, she conceded only 16 runs in her four overs as the Indians tied the Sri Lankans in knots. Deepti Sharma conceded only 10 runs in three overs, while N Shree Charani was comparatively costly in her spell of 1-30 in four overs. She was also guilty of dropping two easy skiers. For India, Kranti Gaud (1-23), Deepti Sharma (1-20), and N. Shree Charani (1-30) claimed a wicket each. Vishmi Gunaratne waged a lone battle for Sri Lanka as she scored a slow 39 off 43 balls, hitting a four and a six before she was run out to a piece of good work by Kranti Gaud. She shared a 38-run partnership with Harshitha Samarawickrama, but once the latter was out, Sri Lanka's batting effort got derailed once again. Hasini Perera 20 off 23 and Harshitha Samarawickrama (21 off 23) got starts but could not capitalise on them. But they helped the Islanders cross into three figures, though they could not manage to hit any big shots. Both India and Sri Lanka have gone into the match with contrasting selection decisions. While India showed trust in the tried and tested, retaining a majority of players that figured in their triumphant 50-over World Cup winning campaign, Sri Lanka picked several youngsters as both teams try to find the best combination for the Women's T20 World Cup to be held later in 2026. Hasini Perera 20 off 23 and Harshitha Samarawickrama (21 off 23) got starts but could not capitalise on them. But they helped the Islanders cross into three figures, though they could not manage to hit any big shots. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka Women 121/6 in 20 overs (Vishmi Gunaratne 39, Harshitha Samarawickrama 21; Kranti Gaud 1-23, Deepti Sharma 1-20, N. Shree Charani 1-30) lost to India Women 122/2 in 14.4 overs (Jemimah Rodrigues 69 not out, Smriti Mandhana 25; Inoka Ranaweera 1-17) by eight wickets Article Source: IANS

Mumbai Star Shardul Thakur And His Wife Blessed With Baby Boy

Lucknow Super Giants: Mumbai and India all-rounder Shardul Thakur and his wife Mittali Parulkar have been blessed with their first child, a baby boy, the cricketer announced on Sunday via a social media post. Shardul, who has played 13 Tests, 47 ODIs, and 25 T20Is for India and was recently traded to the Mumbai Indians from Lucknow Super Giants, revealed the secret they had carried for nine months via an Instagram story on Sunday. Hidden beneath parents' hearts, protected by silence, faith, and endless love. Our little secret is finally here. Welcome, baby boy- the dream we held quietly for 9 beautiful months, wrote Shardul in his Insta story, which was accompanied by a poster announcing We are blessed with a Baby Boy!. The post received a hailstorm of reaction with fans coming out to congratulate the pacer and his wife. Shardul and Mittali got engaged in November 2021 and married on February 28, 2023. The Kohlapur-bornMittali is a baker by profession. Thakur is currently gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League season. In 105 IPL games played so far, Thakur has taken 107 wickets, with a highest score of 68 as a batter. Mumbai Indians head coach Mahela Jayawardene said seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakurs addition will lend the side a different structure in IPL 2026, citing his versatility and experience as key assets. Thakur is currently gearing up for the upcoming Indian Premier League season. In 105 IPL games played so far, Thakur has taken 107 wickets, with a highest score of 68 as a batter. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Were very pleased with the balance weve been able to build after the auction. Shardul (Thakur) gives us a different structure with his versatility, experience, and all-round depth. Him being a Mumbai boy It's a great story from where he started and then became part of the Mumbai Indians, added the Mumbai Indians coach. Article Source: IANS

Nagesh Trophy: Final League Stage Of Mens National T20 For The Blind Set For An Action-packed Start

National T20 Cricket Tournament: The final 10 group stage matches of the 8th Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind will commence at the Railway Cricket Stadium in Hubli, Karnataka, on Monday. Group C, consisting of Karnataka, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Kerala, and Himachal Pradesh, will be played from Monday till December 25, and the group winners will qualify directly for the Super 8 stage. Nagesh Trophy is Indias premier national-level T20 cricket tournament for visually impaired (blind) mens teams. It brings together state and union territory teams from across the country to compete in a structured T20 format under the auspices of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), with support from organisations like the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled. The opening ceremony for the league stage was held at Karnataka Gujarat Bhavana at Hubli in the presence of Jagadish Shettar, Member of Parliament, Belagavi Constituency and Former Chief Minister of Karnataka, Abbayya Prasad, MLA, Hubli-Dharwad-East constituency, Dr. G.K. Mahantesh, Chairman, CABI and Founder & Managing Trustee, Samarthanam Trust, and Udaya Kumar, Trustee, Samarthanam Trust. Welcoming the participating teams to Hubli, Jagadish Shettar, MP, extended his best wishes to all the players for the tournament. He said that the entire country has now become aware of cricket for the blind following the historic victory of the Indian womens team, and expressed hope that this success would further increase awareness and support among the general public. He also thanked the Honble Prime Minister Narendra Modi for honouring the womens team and for showing strong support towards the growth of cricket for the blind. The dignitary later joined all the participating teams for a group photograph. Abbayya Prasad, MLA, congratulated CABI and Samarthanam Trust for their remarkable achievements in creating awareness and empowering persons with visual impairments to dream big and pursue their goals with confidence. Highlighting the larger impact of sports, he said that while sports teach individuals to accept defeat on the field, they also prepare them to win the bigger battles of life. Describing sports as a powerful tool for the empowerment of persons with disabilities, he applauded the consistent efforts of CABI and Samarthanam Trust in enabling inclusion, confidence, and excellence through sports. The eighth edition of the tournament had 29 teams in the fray, which were placed in six groups with a total of 56 league matches. The winners of Groups A, B, C, and D qualified directly for the Super 8 stage. The next two places in the Super 8 stage will be decided on Net Run Rate. The winners of Groups E and F will play against the 7th and 8th-placed teams from all the teams of Groups A to D in the eliminators, and the winners of those two matches will complete the Super 8 stage. Abbayya Prasad, MLA, congratulated CABI and Samarthanam Trust for their remarkable achievements in creating awareness and empowering persons with visual impairments to dream big and pursue their goals with confidence. Highlighting the larger impact of sports, he said that while sports teach individuals to accept defeat on the field, they also prepare them to win the bigger battles of life. Describing sports as a powerful tool for the empowerment of persons with disabilities, he applauded the consistent efforts of CABI and Samarthanam Trust in enabling inclusion, confidence, and excellence through sports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Nagesh Trophy is named in honour of the late S. P. Nagesh, founder president of CABI and a champion for blind cricket development in India. The first edition of the tournament was held in 201819, and has continued annually with increasing participation and competitiveness. Teams from multiple states and union territories compete each year in round-robin league matches followed by knockouts and finals. Andhra Pradesh are the defending champion of the tournament, winning the title by beating Delhi in the finals last year. Article Source: IANS

1st T20I: Bowlers Help India Women Restrict Sri Lanka To 121/6

Rajasekhara Reddy ACA: Indian bowlers came up with a superb performance to restrict Sri Lanka to a modest 121/6 in 20 overs in the first match of the five-match women's T20I bilateral series at the Dr. Y.S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Sunday. After skipper Harmanpreet Kaur elected to field on winning the toss in their first outing since winning the Women's ODI World Cup in Navi Mumbai, the Indian bowlers strangled the Sri Lankan batters despite atrocious fielding that included a few dropped catches, misfields and a six palmed-over by Smriti Mandhana as the 50 overs World Champions struggled to adjust with the short format, which they were playing after a big break. The Sri Lankans were not much better and struggled with the T20 format after they lost skipper Chamari Athapaththu for 15 off 12 balls as they managed to score only 31/1 in the Power-play. The Sri Lankan captain struck three fours in the first couple of overs before Kranti Gaud managed to sneak a ball through the gap between the bat and pad to rattle the stumps for her first Women's T20I wicket. Though debutant spinner Vaishavi Sharma failed to get a wicket, she conceded only 16 runs in her four overs as the Indians tied the Sri Lankans in knots. Deepti Sharma conceded only 10 runs in three overs, while N Shree Charani was comparatively costly in her spell of 1-30 in four overs. She was also guilty of dropping two easy skiers. But the spinners did their job as they tied things up in the middle overs as the hosts put their experience to good use. For India, Kranti Gaud (1-23), Deepti Sharma (1-20), and N. Shree Charani (1-30) claimed a wicket each. Vishmi Gunaratne waged a lone battle for Sri Lanka as she scored a slow 39 off 43 balls, hitting a four and a six before she was run out to a piece of good work by Kranti Gaud. She shared a 38-run partnership with Harshitha Samarawickrama, but once the latter was out, Sri Lanka's batting effort got derailed once again. Hasini Perera 20 off 23 and Harshitha Samarawickrama (21 off 23) got starts but could not capitalise on them. But they helped the Islanders cross into three figures, though they could not manage to hit any big shots. Both India and Sri Lanka have gone into the match with contrasting selection decisions. While India showed trust in the tried and tested, retaining a majority of players that figured in their triumphant 50-over World Cup winning campaign, Sri Lanka picked several youngsters as both teams try to find the best combinations for the Women's T20 World Cup to be held later in 2026. Hasini Perera 20 off 23 and Harshitha Samarawickrama (21 off 23) got starts but could not capitalise on them. But they helped the Islanders cross into three figures, though they could not manage to hit any big shots. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka Women 121/6 in 20 overs (Vishmi Gunaratne 39, Harshitha Samarawickrama 21; Kranti Gaud 1-23, Deepti Sharma 1-20, N. Shree Charani 1-30) against India Women Article Source: IANS

'Cross those bridges as we come' - Williamson on his international future

He will continue to evaluate his international availability on a series-by-series basis

Joshna Chinappa And Veer Chotrani Claim Men's And Women's Singles Titles In Western India Squash Tournament

CCI Western India Squash Tournament: Top seeds Joshna Chinappa and Veer Chotrani emerged champions in the womens and mens categories respectively, clinching their titles in contrasting fashion at the final of the 80th CCI Western India Squash Tournament at the historic Cricket Club of India (CCI) courts on Sunday. In the womens final, the 39-year-old Chinappa lived up to her top billing with a spirited come-from-behind victory over second-seed Sanya Vats. After dropping the opening game, the seasoned campaigner raised her intensity and control to outlast Vats 7-11, 11-8, 11-8, 11-5 in a commanding performance that underlined her experience on the big stage. I have been playing here at the CCI since I was 12 years old and have trained here regularly. Hence, winning here at the CCI is very special. I feel very proud of winning the title, said Chinappa after winning the title for the fifth time. The last time she won the crown was in 2007-08. The mens final, however, was a far more one-sided affair. Chotrani was at his ruthless best as he completely outclassed second seed Suraj Chand, cruising to an emphatic 11-9, 11-9, 11-2 win to lift the title. It marked Chotranis second triumph at the prestigious tournament, having last won the crown in the 202223 season. I have been practising at this venue since I was seven. The venue is special because of the history attached to it. It is great to be among the great names who have won the tournament, said Chotrani after emerging as the champion. RESULTS Womens Final: Joshna Chinappa (1) bt Sanya Vats (2) 7-11 11-8 11-8 11-5 Mens Final: Veer Chotrani (1) bt Suraj Chand 11-9 11-9 11-2 BU11 Final: Ved Sanganaria [1] bt Avyyanveer Luthra [2] 11-4 14-16 11-2 11-5; 3rd/4th: Yuvaan Verma [5/8] bt Rudransh Prabhakar [5/8] 5-11 11-5 15-17 11-8 11-6 BU13 Final: Dhairya Gogia [1] bt Aaron Arambhan [2] 11-5 17-15 11-5; 3rd/4th: Viaan Khemani [5/8] bt Rohan Khurana [5/8] 11-8 11-5 11-6 BU15 Final: Vivaan Khanna [1] bt Fareed Andrabi [5/8] 5-11 11-8 11-7 11-7; 3rd/4th: Swarit Patil [3/4] bt Yusuf Pardiwala [2] 12-10 11-3 11-3 BU17 Final: Hridhaan Shah [5/8] bt Saharsh Shahra [1] 11-8 11-1 11-1; 3rd/4th: Mithun Mahadu Darvada [9/16] bt Agastya Bansal [3/4] 11-4 11-8 14-12 BU19 Final: Purav Rambhia bt Rahul Sanjay Balakrishnan 11-4 11-4 11-7; 3/4th: Rachit Shah bt Arjun Morey 11-7 11-3 11-7 GU11 Final: Sameeksha Sugumar [1] bt Naina Anand [2] 11-1 12-10-11-9; 3rd/4th: Avisha Agarwal [3/4] bt Anshika Kumari [3/4] 11-4 8-11 11-5 11-7 GU13 Final: Riyaa Dalal [2] bt Shanaya Roy [1] 11-8 11-9 11-8; 3rd/4th: Aadhya Grover [3/4] bt Gargi Kadam [5/8] 11-9 11-6 8-11 9-11 14-12 GU15 Final: Vasundhara Nangare [1] bt Diva Parasrampuria [2] 11-9 7-11 11-9 11-1; 3rd/4th: Divyanshi Jain bt Aashi Shah [3/4] 14-12 13-11 11-6 GU17 Final: Riyansika Verma [3/4] bt Fabiha Nafees [5/8] 11-6 15-13 11-2; 3rd/4th: Aarika Mishra [2] bt Kaashvi Mangal [1] 11-3 14-12 9-11 13-11 GU19 Final: Akanksha Gupta bt Aadya Budhia 3-11 11-2 15-13 11-9; 3/4th: Eesha Shrivastava bt Karina Phipps 11-6 11-4 11-1 MO65 Final: Arun Ravindranath bt Vijay Jaini 11-5 11-6 11-6; MO60 Final: Ashun Bahl bt Deepak Moolani 6-11 8-11 11-6 11-7 11-5; MO55 Final: Vishal Jhunjhunwala bt Sanjay Rajpal 11-8 7-11 6-11 11-8 11-6; MO50 Final: Hemant Nadkarni bt Vinay Rauthan 11-3 11-8 8-11 11-4; MO45 Final: Amitpal Kohli bt Akhil Behl 11-6 11-2 11-9; MO40 Final: Arjun Agnihotri bt Sanjay Pawar 11-1 11-7 11-5; MO35 Final: Mahesh Kadam bt Rishi Jalan 11-6 11-7 11-7; WO35 Final: Sheetal Sudhir bt Archana Jain 11-4 11-4 11-6 GU19 Final: Akanksha Gupta bt Aadya Budhia 3-11 11-2 15-13 11-9; 3/4th: Eesha Shrivastava bt Karina Phipps 11-6 11-4 11-1 Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mix U9 Final: Amaay Mahajan bt Vaibhav VC 11-9 11-3 11-5; 3/4th: Devyansh Gupta bt Sabit Khubchandani 11-4 12-10 Article Source: IANS

India bowl in first T20I against Sri Lanka, hand Vaishnavi Sharma a debut

Visitors included Shashini Gimhani, the ambidextrous wristspinner, for the series opener

Sameer Minhas 172 powers Pakistan to Under-19 Asia Cup title

After Suryavanshi was dismissed for 26 off 10, India fell away in the chase to lose by 191 runs

U19 Asia Cup: Minhas Hits Blistering 172 As Pakistan Win Title After Beating India By 191 Runs

ICC Academy Ground: Sameer Minhas smashed a blistering 113-ball 172 and powered Pakistan to a thumping 191-run win over an out-of-sorts India to clinch the U19 Mens Asia Cup title at the ICC Academy Ground on Sunday. It also meant that India, which had an unbeaten campaign so far, suffered their heaviest defeat in terms of runs in Youth ODIs. Pakistan, meanwhile, has grabbed the U19 Mens Asia Cup trophy for the first time, having shared the 2012 edition title with India, where the final ended in a tie. Asked to bat first on a pitch that aided great strokeplay, Pakistan were clinical in their approach to post an imposing 347/8, with Minhas, one of the standout batters in the competition, leading the charge in commanding fashion by hitting 17 fours and nine sixes. He also shared partnerships of 92 and 137 with Usman Khan (35) and Ahmed Hussain (56) as Pakistan ensured the Indian bowling line-up, barring spinner Khilan Patel, had an outing they would not like to remember. The only solace for India, who looked unsorted in their fielding, was that they managed to pull things back in the last 10 overs to keep Pakistan three runs short of 350. In the chase of a massive target, India began brightly in reply, racing to 32 runs in the first two overs. But the chase unravelled swiftly after skipper Ayush Mhatre fell cheaply in the third over. Once Vaibhav Suryavanshi fell for a 10-ball 26, the rest of the Indian batting line-up never showed any kind of fight. Indias batters perished to rash strokes on short balls, leaving them reeling at 68/5 by the end of the power-play. From there, despite Deepesh Devendran top scoring with 36, India were bowled out for 156 in 26.2 overs, with Pakistan pacer Ali Raza taking 4-42. In the chase of a massive target, India began brightly in reply, racing to 32 runs in the first two overs. But the chase unravelled swiftly after skipper Ayush Mhatre fell cheaply in the third over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan U19 347/8 in 50 overs (Sameer Minhas 172, Ahmed Hussain 56; Deepesh Devendran 3-83, Khilan Patel 2-44) beat India U19 156 all out in 26.2 overs (Deepesh Devendran 36, Vaibhav Suryavanshi 26; Ali Raza 4-42, Huzaifa Ahsan 2-12) by 191 runs Article Source: IANS

Jordan four-for, Chaudhary blitz help Hurricanes cruise to victory against Renegades

Renegades were restricted to 145, before Chaudhary bashed 79 off just 38 balls to wrap the chase

Pratika Shares Update On Rehab, Says She Is recovering Well And Looking Forward To Returning Soon

T20 World Cup: Indian cricketer Pratika Rawal shared an update on her injury, saying that she had been recovering well and was grateful for the messages she had received from her well-wishers. Rawal sustained injuries to her right ankle and knee during the washed-out Womens World Cup league stage match against Bangladesh at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in October and, as a result, was ruled out of the tournaments knockout games. Just wanted to take a moment to thank everyone for the overwhelming good wishes over the last few days. Im recovering well, grateful for the fantastic medical support, and looking forward to being back on the field soon, she wrote on X. Before her injury, the 24-year-old had been one of Indias standout performers, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer for the team with 308 runs, including a century and a half-century. Pratika could hardly contain her emotions after watching her team lift the coveted trophy with a 52-run win over South Africa in the final on November 2. Before her injury, the 24-year-old had been one of Indias standout performers, finishing as the second-highest run-scorer for the team with 308 runs, including a century and a half-century. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, the Women in Blue have shifted their focus to the shortest format and have begun their preparations for the T20 World Cup 2026, set to start in England in June. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side will host Sri Lanka for five T20Is, starting Sunday, as the two sides begin their preps for the global event. Article Source: IANS

Afghanistan board announces a five-team franchise-based T20 league

The first season of the Afghanistan Premier League is scheduled for the last quarter of 2026

Decision To Leave Out Gill Tough But Necessary In Interest Of Indian Team: Sources

T20 World Cup: Its already been more than 24 hours since BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia repeated Indias squad for the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup, where he again called Axar Patel as the sides vice-captain. That also confirmed that Shubman Gill, Indias Test and ODI captain, was axed from the T20I team with less than 50 days to go for the mega event to begin. Gills omission capped weeks of speculation on whether his return unsettled the established opening pair of Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson. Despite making just 291 runs in 15 innings at an average of 24.25 and strike rate of 137.26, many felt Gills place in the squad was all but certain until Saturdays late twist happened. Multiple sources familiar with the matter told IANS on Sunday that the call to exclude Gill, backed to be Indias all-format leader, was tough, but necessary in the teams interest for winning the competition, where the Suryakumar Yadav-led side are entering as defending champions. To leave out Gill, it was a tough but necessary decision. It was taken in the interest of the team. The people in charge of the T20I team had realised a while back that their plan with Gill in it wasnt working. It was about when do they change and this course correction was done on the squads selection day, further said sources. This agency also understands that a strong feeling within the think-tank to get Samson return to the opening slot and bring back Rinku Singh came around the fog abandoned T20I against South Africa in Lucknow, a day after Gill suffered a toe injury while batting in a practice session. The pragmatic call to drop Gill, who again fell short of featuring in the T20 World Cup, has drawn largely positive response, but it carries a sharper message: no player is immune to poor returns, and that the people who matter will back combinations they believe offers the best chance of winning a global trophy. This agency also understands that a strong feeling within the think-tank to get Samson return to the opening slot and bring back Rinku Singh came around the fog abandoned T20I against South Africa in Lucknow, a day after Gill suffered a toe injury while batting in a practice session. Also Read: Live Cricket Score More than a day on, the announcement of Patels elevation as vice-captain and Gills exclusion continues to reverberate. But it is worth remembering that in the last three ICC mens events, India lost just one game and won two titles 2024 T20 World Cup and 2025 Champions Trophy. Now, come 2026, all eyes will be fixed on how Yadav and his team chart their plans for India to defend their T20 World Cup title. Article Source: IANS

'The Youth Factor Just Isnt There Right Now': Uthappa Questions SRH's Bowling Squad

Nitish Kumar Reddy: Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa highlighted Sunrisers Hyderabad's bowling issue, citing a lack of youth bowlers, which could hurt the franchise in the IPL 2026. The Hyderabad-based franchise retained their core squad, boasting one of the strongest squads in IPL 2025, featuring players like Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Pat Cummins, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Heinrich Klaasen. They signed seasoned players including Salil Arora, Jack Edwards and Liam Livingstone for Rs 13 crore as well as a number of promising stars through the mini-auction before to IPL 2026. However, Uthappa questioned the signing of Livingstone and his place in the eleven and also shared his thoughts on the weak bowling attack. Nothing has really changed. SRH have taken a clear stand, they want to win the championship on the back of their batting, at full tilt. If you look at this auction and the way theyve gone about it, theyve stayed true to that narrative. They havent gone after an Indian bowler who could support Pat Cummins, Harshal Patel or Jaydev Unadkat. We know Harshal can pick up wickets, but he can also be expensive. The same goes for Unadkat. Pat Cummins is the only bowler who can consistently hold one end. Nitish Reddy is still developing as an all-rounder, so how much responsibility will he get? SRH are batting like they want to breach 300 every game. But the question is where does Liam Livingstone fit into this line-up? You already have Travis Head, Heinrich Klaasen, Pat Cummins and Eshan Malinga occupying overseas slots. Are they planning to chase every game? Or are they accepting that their bowling lacks depth, especially with some bowlers being in the latter stages of their careers? The youth factor in the bowling unit just isnt there right now, Uthappa said on JioStar. Nothing has really changed. SRH have taken a clear stand, they want to win the championship on the back of their batting, at full tilt. If you look at this auction and the way theyve gone about it, theyve stayed true to that narrative. They havent gone after an Indian bowler who could support Pat Cummins, Harshal Patel or Jaydev Unadkat. We know Harshal can pick up wickets, but he can also be expensive. The same goes for Unadkat. Pat Cummins is the only bowler who can consistently hold one end. Nitish Reddy is still developing as an all-rounder, so how much responsibility will he get? SRH are batting like they want to breach 300 every game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think Liam Livingstone, as a buy, certainly makes sense in a T20 line-up, irrespective of his performances last season with RCB. Hes the kind of player who can change a game in just a few overs, thats the way he bats. On top of that, hes extremely flexible he can open, bat at No. 3, or play in the middle order. That said, spending 13 crore becomes an interesting call when you already have a bowling captain in Pat Cummins, who bats lower down the order, along with Travis Head and Heinrich Klaasen three overseas slots that are almost fixed. Article Source: IANS

Responsibility Is More Because Expectations Are Going To Be More, Says Jemimah Ahead Of SL T20Is

SL T20Is: India batter Jemimah Rodrigues believes the Womens World Cup triumph has brought greater responsibility for the team as they gear up for the five-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, starting Sunday. The series marks Indias first international assignment since lifting the World Cup last month. Reflecting on the aftermath of the title win, Jemimah said the tournament's impact has already been felt beyond the field. It's been a while since, you know. Life has definitely changed after the World Cup. A lot many people have been recognising women's cricket, and I think that is one of the biggest achievements that this World Cup has had, she said in a video shared by the BCCI. Jemimah echoed the sentiments earlier expressed by vice captain Smriti Mandhana, underlining the long-term significance of the victory. I was just hearing Smriti's interview after the World Cup, what she had given, and she said that we will not realise it now, but the kind of impact this World Cup is going to have is going to impact the generations. And it's going to be big, it's going to be massive, so can't wait to see that. And yeah, at the same time, you know, now what has happened has happened. While the team takes pride in its achievement, Jemimah stressed that the focus has already shifted to future challenges. Yes, we take pride in what we've done as a team, but it's just the beginning. Now is the time when I think the responsibility is more because the expectations are going to be more, and at the same time, the T20 World Cup, that's our focus now. Yes, it's about winning World Cups, but it's also how we can be the best Indian team we've ever been. The 25-year-old highlighted the need for continuous improvement, especially with the shorter format demanding higher intensity. And when we think of it that way, I think that hard work never stops. You improving never stops. You keep improving every single day, little by little by little. Jemimah added that complacency would be the biggest enemy following success. So I think it's a greater responsibility for us, and we know what we've done, but we also know that we can't stop them. We need to keep going. T20, I feel, compared to the ODIs, the intensity is much higher. She also spoke about the tactical demands of T20 cricket, particularly for bowlers. It's a shorter format and we know that it has a lot of explosiveness to it. And I think that even as a team, we are working towards. T20, we know, even for bowlers, the batter is going to come hard at least but if we can nail those yorkers, nail those wide yorkers, the slow ones, I think it's also going to be a game of smartness and preparation where we can go out and execute what we do. Jemimah added that complacency would be the biggest enemy following success. So I think it's a greater responsibility for us, and we know what we've done, but we also know that we can't stop them. We need to keep going. T20, I feel, compared to the ODIs, the intensity is much higher. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will take on Sri Lanka in the first of the five T20Is at the ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam. Article Source: IANS

Would Have Got Jaiswal And Jitesh In Place Of Ishan And Washington, Says Jaffer

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Former India opener Wasim Jaffer said he would have preferred Yashasvi Jaiswal and Jitesh Sharma to be included in the squad for 2026 Mens T20 World Cup in place of Ishan Kishan and Washington Sundar. Jaffers remarks come after India axed Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill on Saturday from the squad for their T20 World Cup title defence and a preparatory five-game series against New Zealand. All-rounder Axar Patel was named as vice-captain, while wicketkeeper-batsman Ishan Kishan was rewarded for his stellar form in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy with a spot in the 15-member squad. Rinku Singh also returned to the team at Jiteshs expense, especially with India having two keeper-batters who can open the innings. Why not Jaiswal & Jitesh? I would have them in place of Ishan & Washi. Axar is VC so he's sure to play and you can't play Washi ahead of Varun and Kuldeep. Jitesh hasn't done anything wrong to be dropped and Yashasvi, don't need any explaining why he shouldn't be there in first place, wrote Jaffer on his X account on Sunday. Jaiswal last played T20Is for India on their tour of Sri Lanka in July 2024, and didnt feature consistently in games due to being busy with Test assignments. The 10th edition of the Mens T20 World Cup will be hosted by Sri Lanka and India, featuring 20 teams. India are the defending champions, after beating South Africa by seven runs in a thrilling final in Barbados in June 2024. In the upcoming edition of the tournament, India have been placed in Group A alongside Pakistan, USA, Netherlands and Namibia. Jaiswal last played T20Is for India on their tour of Sri Lanka in July 2024, and didnt feature consistently in games due to being busy with Test assignments. The 10th edition of the Mens T20 World Cup will be hosted by Sri Lanka and India, featuring 20 teams. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias marquee clash against Pakistan is scheduled for February 15 at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, before the side plays their final league stage game against the Netherlands at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on February 18. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: We Thought We Would Be Competitive, But Australia Outplayed Us, Says McCullum

Boxing Day Test: England head coach Brendon McCullum accepted that the teams preparation for the Ashes series was not right and is prepared for the following scrutiny ahead after the visitors were handed an 82-run defeat at Adelaide Oval. After defeats in Perth and Brisbane, this was a third straight loss for the visitors as Australia took an unassailable 3-0 lead and retained the Ashes title. Acknowledging that their opponents had outplayed them in all aspects, McCullum didnt shy away from recognising that his team's entire performance was the most precise, formidable, and consistent he had witnessed from an Australian side in many years. We're obviously disappointed, McCullum said. We came here with high hopes, high ambitions and lofty goals, and we've been outplayed across three Test matches. You've got to cop a sweep when you don't quite achieve what you're hoping to. I do feel like the last day-and-a-half, two days, we've probably played our best cricket, and that's because we've just played. We knew coming down here that Australia is a very strong team in their own conditions, he later added. We thought we would be competitive, and that we would be able to seize some pressure moments, and we haven't been able to do it. With the ball, we've not quite been relentless enough with our accuracy and challenging on the surface in the areas we need to. With the bat we haven't scored enough runs, we haven't quite found the tempo we need to operate at either. And in the field we have let opportunities go. On the final day, England's lower order showed some resistance, which McCullum was full of praise for, particularly from wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith and all-rounder Brydon Carse. Their efforts raised hopes of a miracle, but a disciplined bowling attack kept the hosts in control, and they continued to hold the urn. Smith (60), Will Jacks (47), and Brydon Carse (38 not out) offered hope to Ben Stokes' team after England reached 207-6 on Sunday. Nonetheless, Mitchell Starc (3-62) brought Australia close to victory before Scott Boland dismissed Josh Tongue, ending the tourists' innings at 352 in pursuit of a record 435 to win. I do feel like the last day-and-a-half, two days, we've probably played our best cricket, and that's because we've just played, he said. I feel like, for the previous nine days, we were so caught up and so driven to achieve something, and succeed, that we almost got in our own way, and we stymied our talent and our skill and our ability. It's only been the last two days that we've let go and just played, and actually competed, and probably had our best two days of the tour. So there's a lesson in that, and not just for the players. There's a lesson for the coach, and the coaching staff as well. How do you free guys up when the pressure is at its highest, rather than having to wait to these last two days? Despite nine scores of thirty or more over the course of their two innings, England's performance in Adelaide remained seriously flawed, with none of their batters reaching a century. McCullum was pleased, though, that a team that had been outplayed in every pivotal moment of the game thus far had at last displayed hints of the character that should have been crucial to their performances throughout the tournament. I know that that'll be something that's questioned, McCullum said. When you've lost 3-0, you've got to put your hand up and say, 'maybe I didn't get that preparation right'. Ultimately you are responsible for how you get your side ready and how you prepare them. I had conviction, we had conviction in our methods in terms of preparation, not just leading into the first Test but also in between Tests. I look back now and think, did we need more leading into the first and did we need less leading into the second? They are the changes over time you look back on and say would I do it differently? Retrospectively, we lost 3-0 so you would probably say there was room for change there. Again, you put your hand up as a coach and say you might not have got that right. At the same time I felt it would give us our best chance because it has previously. Sitting here 3-0, it didn't work. Ultimately you are responsible for how you get your side ready and how you prepare them. I had conviction, we had conviction in our methods in terms of preparation, not just leading into the first Test but also in between Tests. I look back now and think, did we need more leading into the first and did we need less leading into the second? They are the changes over time you look back on and say would I do it differently? Also Read: Live Cricket Score We do have a great opportunity in the next two Tests, he said. That's the message to the boys, right? We need to find something out of this tour. We need to salvage some pride and play for all the people that have come down to Australia and supported this team, and play for all the people back home in England, supporting this team as well. If we can do that, then we walk away with a bit of pride. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: Cant Achieve What We Set Out To Do Here, Says Stokes After England Lose Series

Boxing Day Test: England skipper Ben Stokes admitted that poor execution, both in Adelaide and across the opening three Tests of the summer, has been the primary reason behind his side surrendering yet another Ashes series in Australia. England mounted a spirited fight in the fourth innings at the Adelaide Oval but ultimately fell 82 runs short of a world-record chase on Sunday. The defeat handed Australia an unassailable 3-0 lead heading into the Boxing Day Test in Melbourne. Addressing the media after the match, Stokes struck a measured tone, acknowledging the disappointment while stressing that the remaining two Tests still hold value for his team. Obviously, it sucks. Its very disappointing knowing now that we cant achieve what we set out to do here, Stokes said at the post-match press conference. Now, it moves over into: What else do we have in front of us?. Weve still got two more games to play for ... walking out there and playing for England is a good enough thing in itself. We arent going to turn around and kick the stumps over because weve lost the series here. Theres still so much more to play for, he added. Once again, England showed flashes of promise but failed to deliver a complete performance. Several players made starts or contributed in patches, only to fall in familiar ways, while Australia, despite not being flawless, maintained control for most of the four-and-a-half-day contest. Id never underestimate the Australian team ... I think its quite simple for me that Australia has been able to execute batting, bowling and fielding a lot better than us, on a much more consistent basis. I think some individuals have learned a bit more about themselves this week. Its obviously hard to look at it with too much positivity at the moment ... but Ill take the positives out of some of the things that Ive seen this week. When we lost the toss and had to bowl, I think we bowled Australia out for an under-par on a day one wicket in Adelaide. We knew we were actually ahead of the game there before we even batted. We were close, but not close enough. And being close isnt going to do much for you when you need to win a game, Stokes said. The third Test also saw a noticeable shift away from Englands trademark Bazball approach, with batters such as Zak Crawley and Harry Brook opting for a far more restrained style. While their technique appeared solid, it underlined that Englands aggressive blueprint is no longer the only method they are willing to employ in Australian conditions. We know the plans that work out here. As I said at the start, we just havent been able to execute those plans for long enough ... you just cant be so poor with your execution as consistently as we have been over these first three games, particularly with the ball. I think this is our best game of cricket out on this tour, but its still not good enough. Obviously, its a pretty emotional time for me in the dressing room (and everyone else) ... but when we get ourselves together and speak about the game, we will take a lot out of this game. At the end of the day, what you do out there (on-field) is what counts ... weve not been able to stand up to the barrage of execution from Australia, the English skipper stated. Stokes also addressed his limited bowling involvement during a key phase on day three, explaining it was a precautionary decision driven by fitness concerns. At the end of the day, what you do out there (on-field) is what counts ... weve not been able to stand up to the barrage of execution from Australia, the English skipper stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I felt like I was going to snap every time I ran after a ball, so I just looked after myself for the remaining few days of this game ... I actually listened to the advice given to me for a change, he further added. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: Skipper Pat Cummins 'doubtful' For Remainder Of Series

Skipper Pat Cummins: Australia captain Pat Cummins is unlikely to feature in the Boxing Day Test against England, scheduled to take place from December 26 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. After a five-and-a-half-month injury break, the Australian captain took six wickets in the third Test and was a key factor in their 82-run win at the Adelaide Oval. Following wins in Perth and Brisbane, the hosts continued their strong performance and clinched the series 3-0, successfully retaining the Ashes. The captain expressed joy over the amazing series victory but indicated he will reconsider injury risks for the upcoming matches. I'm feeling really good, but as for the rest of the series, we'll wait and see. We had a pretty aggressive build-up knowing that it's the Ashes there to be won and we thought that was worth it. Now that the series has been won, there might be a sense of job's done and let's reassess the risk, he told the broadcasters after the game. We'll work it out over the next couple of days, I doubt I'll be playing Melbourne, and then we'll have a chat about Sydney. But certainly before the series it was, while the series was live, let's take on the risk and have a crack at it, now it's done, I think we'll need to have a chat about it, Cummins added. England's Jamie Smith and Will Jacks challenged the hosts with a counterattack for a period, but pacer Mitchell Starc took three of the last four wickets, including those of Smith and Jacks. Scott Boland finished the innings by taking the wicket of Josh Tongue, securing Australia a well-earned victory. It feels pretty awesome. Yeah, amazing. It's a series we've been thinking about for a long time. It wasn't easy today, but we got it done. It's a pretty excited changing room in there, Cummins said on the win. Speaking on about maintaining the pressure on England, he said, I think that's when we're at our best, this cricket team. You can't really rush things here in Australia. I think you kind of will it to happen, but it doesn't really work that way. It's good old-fashioned grind a lot of the time. I loved the toil from all the guys today. It got a little bit closer than I would have liked, but I'm pretty happy. Nathan Lyon, who took three wickets on day four, was sidelined due to a hamstring injury while fielding, but the captain praised the team's efforts on the field. I think that's one of the things I'm most proud about in this group. Nothing ever really happens perfectly, there's always something that gets thrown up. Nathan Lyon, who took three wickets on day four, was sidelined due to a hamstring injury while fielding, but the captain praised the team's efforts on the field. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The boys just go, okay, that's happened. Let's crack on. What's next? I think that's one of the big reasons why we've had our success over the last couple of years, he added. Article Source: IANS

Stokes admits England have been 'poor' but remains committed to captaincy

Pat Cummins admitted he was surprised how the visitors had played on the very hot second day in Adelaide

3rd Test: Conway, Latham Set 462-run Target For West Indies On Day 4

With Shai Hope: Devon Conway and Tom Latham shone bright once again, thanks to their 192-run partnership, as New Zealand posted a mammoth 462-run target for the West Indies to chase. With just three sessions in hand, the visitors will walk into Day 5 with a mammoth task ahead. West Indies start to Day 4 of the third and final Test against New Zealand was dull as they lost a wicket in just the second over of the day after continuing from their overnight score of 381/6. With Shai Hope fit and available to bat, he made his way into the field but his innings was cut short by Jacob Duffy in the fourth over of the day as the visitors were reduced to 390/8. Kavem Hodge and Jayden Seales looked to stretch through the session and cut the hosts lead short, but Ajaz Patel and Michael Rae dismissed Seales and Kemar Roach as the Windies closed their first innings at 420/10. New Zealand only allowed the visitors to add 39 more runs to their overnight score and took the remaining four wickets, resulting in a significant 155-run lead. Hodge was the standout for the visitors with his unbeaten 275-ball 123. The hosts ended the session on a high note, as after dishing out the West Indies, Devon Conway and Tom Latham started nicely and looked in sublime touch yet again as their side stretched the lead to 190 runs at the end of the second session. The opening pair went on to share another century partnership and added 192 runs to the first wicket. New Zealand notched up 157 runs in the second session, courtesy of Conways ton and Lathams 80, before tea was taken. Conway (100) etched his name into history with a rare and outstanding feat as he became the first New Zealander to score both a double-century and a century in a Test match. He followed up his magnificent 227 in the first innings with a composed 100 in the second, reaching the milestone shortly before tea on Day 4. This century was Conways seventh in Test cricket, further underlining his consistency at the highest level. The left-hander was eventually dismissed on the third ball after tea when Jayden Seales made a great catch at deep mid-wicket off Kavem Hodge. Latham (101) was also dismissed soon after reaching the three-figure mark, with the same duo of Hodge and Seales doing the work for the Windies. Kane Williamson (40*) and Rachin Ravindra (46*) then played beautiful knocks. They tried to race to their respective half-centuries, but Latham signalled for declaration as the hosts posted a 462-run target for the visitors to chase. John Campbell and Brandon King opened the final innings for the Windies, aiming not to lose a wicket in that final hour, and they accomplished just that as the visitors finished at 43/0 at stumps. They have all 10 wickets remaining ahead of Day 5, and a mammoth 418 to chase. While a win seems unlikely at this stage, a draw looks achievable. The cracks are causing some variable bounce, but King and Campbell managed to see out the first 16 overs without much trouble. King played with regal strokeplay, carrying his form from the first innings, whereas Campbell concentrated more on defence. Both teams will now head into the final day aiming for a win. While a win for New Zealand would take the series 2-0 in their favour, a West Indies victory would lead to a 1-1 draw after the first game in Christchurch ended in a stalemate. They have all 10 wickets remaining ahead of Day 5, and a mammoth 418 to chase. While a win seems unlikely at this stage, a draw looks achievable. The cracks are causing some variable bounce, but King and Campbell managed to see out the first 16 overs without much trouble. King played with regal strokeplay, carrying his form from the first innings, whereas Campbell concentrated more on defence. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand 575/8 & 306/2 dec (Tom Latham 101, Devon Conway 100; Kavem Hodge 2-80) lead West Indies 420 & 43/0 (Brandon King 37*, John Campbell 2*) by 418 runs. Article Source: IANS

Desert Vipers Ease Past Sharjah Warriorz by Four Wickets to Seal Top-Two Spot in ILT20 Season 4

Desert Vipers continued their strong run in the DP World ILT20 season 4 with a comprehensive victory over Sharjah Warriorz, beating them by four wickets at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday. The win consolidated their position at the top of the standings, with 14 points in eight matches and are guaranteed a spot in the top two. David Paynes disciplined bowling performance bundled the hosts for a modest total of 90 runs. Barring Tom Abells unbeaten 35 runs in 36 balls, the Warriorz did not hurt the Vipers bowling. With the bat, Sam Currans 37 off 31 with five fours, ensured a comfortable run chase with 37 balls to spare. Chasing a meagre target, the Vipers made a steady start despite losing early wickets. Taskin Ahmed did the early damage for the Warriorz, removing Fakhar Zaman (6 off 6) and Hasan Nawaz (10 off 11), but Sam Curran countered with a couple of boundaries to keep the run rate in check. Max Holden (8 off 9) fell to Dwaine Pretorius, leaving the Vipers at 38/3 after six overs. Curran anchored the innings in the middle overs, rotating the strike efficiently with Dan Lawrence (14 off 14). Despite tidy spells from Taskin Ahmed, Adil Rashid and Dwaine Pretorius, the Warriorz were unable to apply sustained pressure as the Vipers calmly knocked off singles and kept the chase firmly on track. Barring a few late wickets for the Warriorz Harmeet Singh removed Lawrence and Sikandar Raza dismissed Curran Tom Bruces (10* off 4) six and four off Harmeet in the 13th over took the game beyond the Warriorz. Vriitya Aravind (3* off 3) clipped Rashid for the winning run, consigning Sharjah to another defeat at the foot of the table. Earlier in the match, David Payne struck twice in the powerplay to remove Johnson Charles (3 off 9) and Tom Kohler-Cadmore (9 off 11), conceding just nine runs in three overs. Khuzaima Tanveer and Naseem Shah maintained pressure from the other end to keep the Warriorz in check as they crawling to 28/2 after six overs. Payne struck again just after the powerplay to remove James Rew for a duck, completing a super spell of three for 14. Lawrence and Naseem Shah then conceded just 11 runs across overs 8 and 9, as boundaries dried up completely. The Warriorz never found momentum through the middle overs as regular wickets kept falling. Noor Ahmad and Curran applied the pressure, with Noor removing Ethan DSouza (18 off 21) via a sharp stumping and later trapping Harmeet Singh (4 off 6) LBW, while Curran got Sikandar Raza (1 off 3). Despite Tom Abell batting with composure, support around him was minimal. The innings then unravelled rapidly at the death. Khuzaima Tanveer struck twice in the 15th over, removing Dinesh Karthik (3 off 5) and Dwaine Pretorius (1 off 3), before Naseem Shah finished things off with a decisive burst in the 18th, dismissing Adil Rashid (1 off 6) and Taskin Ahmed (2 off 4). The Warriorz slid from 76/7 to 90 all out in quick time, setting a meagre target for their opponents. Match Summary Desert Vipers beat Sharjah Warriorz by four wickets Sharjah Warriorz 90 in 17.5 overs (Tom Abell 35 not out, Ethan DSouza 18, David Payne 3 for 14, Naseem Shah 2 for 12, Noor Ahmad 2 for 18) Desert Vipers 91/6 in 13.5 overs (Sam Curran 37, Dan Lawrence 14, Tom Bruce 10 not out, Taskin Ahmed 2 for 20) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Player of the match: David Payne

King gives WI positive start after Conway, Latham tons set them 462

Conway and Latham became the first pair of openers to score twin tons in the same game in all first-class cricket

Ben Stokes Says Losing Ashes in 11 Days Sucks but Vows England Will Bounce Back

Skipper Ben Stokes said Sunday it sucks to lose the Ashes inside 11 days but vowed England would bounce back as a more consistent side in the final two Tests in Melbourne and Sydney. Their capitulation over three Tests is a far cry from the pre-Ashes hype that promised a hard-fought series, with Australia proving better in all departments. Stokes admitted as much, but said defeat hurt nevertheless. We came here with a goal in mind and we've not being able to achieve that. It hurts and it sucks but we ain't going to stop, he said. At least England finally showed some of the fight Stokes had been demanding in the third Test, coming within 82 runs of a major upset in Adelaide as they chased a world record 435 to win. I think the boys were excellent today. They showed some great application, said coach Brendon McCullum. They bounced off each other and tried to take the game as deep as they could. We didn't get there, but I thought it was a fine achievement. While they showed more grit in Adelaide after eight-wicket losses in Perth in two days and Brisbane in four, England have failed to meet the big moments throughout the series. Stokes said the key difference between the sides was constant execution with England lacking Australia's relentless quality. Australia have just been able to execute things on a way more consistent basis than us, he said. Both with the ball and the bat, and in the field. They've been able to outdo us on a much higher level. McCullum put it down to Australia making better decisions in pressure moments. For us, from the get-go, it has never been about scoring rates, he said, alluding to the ultra-aggressive Bazball style of play he and Stokes pioneered. It is about respecting what is coming at you, being present in the moment. You identify what the levels of risk are, but what the opportunities are and make sure how to counter that. Be able to apply pressure when you need to and absorb pressure when you need to. I don't think we have got that balance right in the previous encounters in the series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If we had cottoned onto that earlier then we would have been more competitive.

McCullum: 'Maybe I didn't get Ashes preparation right'

Head coach rues the fact that best performances came too late to change direction of the series