Open To Mentoring Test Side Ahead Of Ashes, But Full-time Role Unlikely: Kevin Pietersen
Kevin Pietersen: Former captain Kevin Pietersen has revealed that he is in talks with England Test coach Stephen Fleming regarding a potential mentoring role with the red-ball setup ahead of next year's Ashes, though a full-time commitment remains out of the question due to his mad schedule'. Pietersen, who recently returned to the England fold as a short-term white-ball mentor under head coach Brendon McCullum till next year's 50-over World Cup in South Africa, said he has already held initial discussions with Fleming about working with the Test batters. I have had a conversation with Stephen Fleming, but I don't think that necessarily means that I need to be in a dressing-room. There's a lot of time in the lead-up to an Ashes series; there's a lot of time in the lead-up to the tour of South Africa now, where I'm going to be with the Test batters in Australia, and there's conversations that can be had there. Inside a tournament, I can't do anything. There's nothing I can do. But I've certainly had a conversation with Flem - who I absolutely love - about language that he would like me to use with the Test batters going into, say, South Africa, and then certainly into the summer next year. But I don't think I can commit to a lot more time, Pietersen was quoted as saying by Cricinfo on Friday, after Sri Lanka levelled the ODI series. One of the key figures Pietersen aims to guide is white-ball captain Harry Brook, whose vast potential the former batter described as frightening. Where I can help him is situations, playing situations, because there was a lot of method in my madness when I played. There was a lot of strategy in the way that I approached batting. Yes, occasionally I got out to reckless shots and crazy shots in the 80s and 90s and stuff, but actually, there was a lot of structure to the way that I batted. I've still got notes on my phone on how I played in T20 cricket, one-day cricket, Test match cricket, about hitting straight back at the stumps, techniques That all-round structure is something I could potentially help him with, because he's so flipping good. He's a joke, how good he is. It's actually frightening how good he is, and how good he can be, he added. Pietersen's return to the England setup came as a surprise given the controversial end to his international career in 2014 and his past criticism of the team's style of play. He admitted to being taken aback when McCullum first reached out to him last month. I thought I was in trouble. It took a couple of weeks of conversations with him to be able to convince me that it was something that I wanted to do, because the perception (that I had) wasn't actually the reality that I now know of what's downstairs in that dressing-room. I'm very, very happy that I did take up the role because it gives me a way, way, way happier perspective on where English cricket actually is. You've got a young bunch of guys here that are absolutely driven to be successful, and you've got Baz who is hellbent on making sure that we're the fittest, strongest, most adaptable team, and he is on an absolute path to make sure that we are competitive next year, he added. Dismissing any lingering baggage from his playing days, Pietersen said, I'm 46, man. That stuff's so long gone. I'm a completely different person, too I'm just here to help Brendon, first and foremost. I'm here to help the players try to become the best versions of themselves. Looking ahead to next year's 50-over World Cup in South Africa, with England are currently ranked seventh in the ICC standings, Pietersen struck a realistic tone regarding the team's prospects. Dismissing any lingering baggage from his playing days, Pietersen said, I'm 46, man. That stuff's so long gone. I'm a completely different person, too I'm just here to help Brendon, first and foremost. I'm here to help the players try to become the best versions of themselves. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We've got a very successful T20 team. We know we're not as successful in the one-day format, so over the next 12 months, we have to work our absolute backsides off, day and night, in every single country that we're in to get better every single day, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Phoebe Brett, Maria Andrews Named In England Squad For U-19 T20 WC And India Series
T20 World Cup: Warwickshire spinner Phoebe Brett and The Blaze all-rounder Maria Andrews have been named in a 15-player England squad for their upcoming tour of India and the subsequent ICC U-19 Womens T20 World Cup, scheduled to be held in Nepal and Bangladesh. The ECB announced a busy winter itinerary for the side, which begins with a five-match T20 series against India in November-December this year, and serves as key preparation for the marquee global event in January-February 2027. Following the conclusion of the series against India, the squad will stay back in the country for an additional week of outdoor training camps before flying out for the World Cup. Phoebe remains the sole player from England's 2025 World Cup campaign in Malaysia, where the side lost to eventual champions India in the semi-finals. Maria, who served as a non-travelling reserve during the previous edition, has earned a call-up to the main squad this time around. This is an exciting opportunity for this group of players who will be the best prepared squad we will have sent to the U19 Womens World Cup, England U-19 head coach Chris Guest said in a statement. The aspiration as always is to win the U19 World Cup. Taking on board learnings from previous campaigns, we have gone about things slightly differently this time, ensuring that our players are getting some game time outdoors much closer to the tournament, he added. Detailing the focus of the upcoming winter assignment, the head coach stressed that player development remains as vital as winning silverware. The goals for the winter are dual focused. We want to win the World Cup, and we are also developing players and helping them prepare for what their career might look like in a professional environment. The ECB stated that the team captain will be named at a later date. Additionally, five non-travelling reserves - Ava Clive, Ivreen Dhaliwal, Libby Fellows, Lucy Randle-Bissell, and Isobel Thorndike - will participate in all preparation camps, including the training period in India at the conclusion of the T20 series. The five-match T20 series against India will kick off in Baroda on November 26, with the venue hosting the first two games before the action shifts to Surat for the remaining three fixtures. The ECB stated that the team captain will be named at a later date. Additionally, five non-travelling reserves - Ava Clive, Ivreen Dhaliwal, Libby Fellows, Lucy Randle-Bissell, and Isobel Thorndike - will participate in all preparation camps, including the training period in India at the conclusion of the T20 series. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Non-travelling reserves: Ava Clive, Ivreen Dhaliwal, Libby Fellows, Lucy Randle-Bissell, and Isobel Thorndike. Article Source: IANS
Shams Mulani Shines as India A Trounces Australia A by 162 Runs
Left-arm spinner Shams Mulani's impressive match-haul of 7/124, including three wickets in the second innings, propelled India A to a commanding 162-run victory over Australia A in the first unofficial Test at the CAP-Siechem Stadium in Puducherry.
Adaptability And Partnerships Key To Success In Tests, Says Prasidh Krishna
Cricket World Cup: Stressing that red-ball cricket is as much about effort put in tandem as compared to individual brilliance, India pacer Prasidh Krishna said the ability to adapt to varying conditions and bowl in partnerships has been central to establishing himself in the Test setup. In nine Tests since 2023, Prasidh has picked 32 wickets, while completing a half-century of scalps in 28 ODIs. I think its the ability to adapt and deliver, no matter what the conditions are. You need to be able to run in and bowl your heart out wherever you play. Understanding your bowling partners is also important. Like batting, bowling is about partnerships, being able to complement each other and deliver whatever the team needs, Prasidh told JioStar on Friday. India are scheduled to kick off a busy home season featuring three ODIs against the West Indies from September 27 in Thiruvananthapuram. It also serves as an early building block towards the 2027 ICC Mens Cricket World Cup alongside a high-stakes home Test series against Australia. Looking forward to the marquee Border-Gavaskar Trophy series at home, Prasidh stated that managing workload and rhythm over a grueling five-match series remains crucial in the context of entering the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Ive experienced five-match Test series twice now, once in Australia and once in England, and Ive grown a lot from those experiences. Its a completely different challenge to stay in rhythm and carry momentum across five games and 25 days of cricket. The team is already building towards that challenge. Everyone is in great shape and has the right mindset to take it on. We also know how important the series is in the WTC cycle, so Im really looking forward to it, he added. Having spent considerable time on the sidelines recovering from injuries, including a lower back stress fracture needing surgery, the tall fast bowler reflected on the mental fortitude required during long rehabilitation periods. Being injured and unable to take part in the cricket thats going on is difficult for anyone. The rehab journey is gruelling because you have to do the same things again and again. Thats where the team and sports science staff become really important. Having spent considerable time on the sidelines recovering from injuries, including a lower back stress fracture needing surgery, the tall fast bowler reflected on the mental fortitude required during long rehabilitation periods. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Its easy to sit back and say, I was injured, I couldnt do much, and it will take time to come back. But you also need that mental resilience to get up and get going. I always tell myself that if I was at a certain level when I got injured, I need to be ten times better when I come back. That mindset is really important, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Uttarakhand Premier League: Haridwar Elmas produced a confident run chase to defeat Tehri Titans by four wickets in the Uttarakhand Premier League 2026, with captain Yuvraj Chaudhary leading from the front with a match-winning 79 off 46 balls. After winning the toss, Haridwar Elmas opted to bowl first. Tehri Titans posted 168/8 in their allotted 20 overs, with Vijay Sharma providing the major contribution with a quickfire 60 off 31 balls. For Haridwar Elmas, Abhay Chhetri was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets. Chasing 169, Haridwar Elmas reached the target in 18.4 overs, finishing on 174/6. Captain Yuvraj Chaudhary anchored the chase with an assured 79 off 46 balls, while crucial contributions from the middle order helped Haridwar maintain control of the chase and cross the finish line with eight balls to spare. Reflecting on the teams approach and the confidence within the camp, Yuvraj said the environment created by the team management has helped the players perform without unnecessary pressure. First of all, our team and staff keep everything simple. We dont give much pressure to anyone. We just tell them to back their game and play for the team. Do whatever is needed for the team. This is how our teams environment is very good, said Yuvraj. The Haridwar captain also revealed that he remained confident throughout the chase despite losing two early wickets. He said his focus was simply on staying at the crease and taking the team across the line. There was nothing in my mind. I knew that if I kept standing for 15-16 overs, I would finish the match. So I had a belief in myself that I just have to bat. I can cover the runs anytime, he said. Yuvraj credited his teammates for keeping the chase on track, highlighting the partnership with Shashwat and Siddharths contribution towards the end. I fell two wickets early. It didnt matter that much. There was a good partnership with Shashwat in the middle. And in the end, Siddharth did a good finish. So there is a very good combination in the team, he added. The captain also drew confidence from previous experiences of finishing matches for his side. I knew that I would finish the match a couple of times earlier, said Yuvraj. With Haridwar Elmas continuing their campaign, Yuvraj said the team would remain focused on executing their skills rather than worrying about the eventual result. Its the same. We will do our batting and bowling well. We dont think much about the results. We do our job well. So we will get the results, he said. With Haridwar Elmas continuing their campaign, Yuvraj said the team would remain focused on executing their skills rather than worrying about the eventual result. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories No, I think we will go with the same combination. We will try to give everyone a chance, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
West Indian head coach Daren Sammy said that the series will serve as a big chance to challenge themselves and measure up where they are in the format, noting that beating the Men in Blue is important if a team wants to win a major ICC trophy.
India A Beat Australia A By 162 Runs, Shams Mulani Claims Seven Wickets
India A registered a thumping 162-run win over Australia A in the first four-day fixture at the CAP-Siechem Stadium on Friday.
Mulani, Deshpande Help India A Thump Australia A By 162 Runs
Opener Sai Sudharsan: Left-arm spinner Shams Mulani took three wickets in the second innings to return a match-haul of seven for 124 as India A recorded a thumping 162-run win over Australia A about half an hour after lunch on the concluding day of the first four-day fixture at the CAP-Siechem Stadium here on Friday. Resuming their second innings at 55/2, and requiring another 308 for victory, Australia A were bowled out for 200, with Mulani scalping three at the end, including top-scorer Fergus ONeill (47, 52b, 6x4, 1x6) caught at deep mid wicket. Medium pacer Anshul Kamboj took out the overnight pair of Nathan McSweeney (35, 75b, 5x4) and skipper Peter Handscomb (16) in the opening hour to push the visitors on to the back-foot immediately. Replacing Kamboj from the pavilion end, pacer Tushar Deshpande cleaned up Josh Philippe and Liam Scott off successive deliveries before off-spinner Tanush Kotian clean bowled Jason Sangha to leave the visitors struggling at 185/7 at lunch. Earlier, on Thursday, skipper Devdutt Padikkal struck a fifty and first-innings centurion Kumar Kushagra remained unbeaten on 46 as India A set Australia A an improbable target of 363. Opener Sai Sudharsan (39, 85b, 3x4), who scored a fifty in the first innings, and fellow-southpaw Padikkal (59, 88b, 7x4) put on 68 for the second wicket as India A built on a solid first-innings lead of 163. Sudharsan fell lbw attempting to sweep Todd Murphy just before lunch, the first of four victims for the impressive bespectacled off-spinner, who took three wickets in the first innings. In-form Padikkal, who recorded his fourth 50-plus score in as many first-class matches, reached his fifty with successive fours off pacer Liam Scott. The skipper was the fifth wicket to fall, lbw to Scott, as the hosts collapsed, losing their last six wickets for 48 runs. In-form Padikkal, who recorded his fourth 50-plus score in as many first-class matches, reached his fifty with successive fours off pacer Liam Scott. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief scores: India A 334 & 199 beat Australia A 171 & 200 all out in 55.1 overs (Fergus ONeill 47; Tushar Deshpande 3-14, Shams Mulani 3-57, Tanush Kotian 2-57) by 162 runs. Article Source: IANS
Dahiya Returns As Delhi Senior Men's Head Coach; Bhaskar Named Chief Selector
Raj Kumar Sharma: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Vijay Dahiya has been re-appointed as the head coach of the Delhi senior mens cricket team for the 2026/27 domestic season. Raj Kumar Sharma, the childhood coach of India batting stalwart Virat Kohli and a Dronacharya Awardee, has been named the 'State Mentor', while Sunita Sharma has been appointed in the same role for the women's teams. The decisions for men's and women's teams selection committee and coaches were taken after all recommendations were submitted by the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), according to an official statement issued by the Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) on Friday. Dahiya, the assistant coach with IPL 2022 winners Gujarat Titans, had coached Delhi to 2007/08 Ranji Trophy triumph and served in the same role in 2012/13, 2014/15 and 2015/16 seasons. Dahiya, who played two Tests and ten ODIs for India, now takes over from former India off-spinner and selector Sarandeep Singh, who had been at the helm for the last two seasons and is now in the CAC. Dahiya will be joined by assistant coaches Kshitiz Sharma and Kuldeep Rawat, with Sanjeev Sharma and former India pacer Parvinder Awana serving as bowling coaches. Delhi will begin their Ranji Trophy campaign on October 11 against Bengal in Kalyani. Former Delhi stalwarts KP Bhaskar and ex-India player Reema Malhotra have been appointed as head of the senior mens and senior womens selection panels, respectively. Bhaskar will chair a three-member committee featuring Manu Nayar and Praveen Gupta, while Reema is joined by Swarn Chadha and Rani Ojha. In the age-group divisions, former Delhi batter Robin Bisht takes charge as chief coach of the Mens Under-23 team and will be assisted by Mohan Chaturvedi and Rajinder Singh Chawla. Rajiv Nayyar will lead the Mens U-19 coaching staff, while Raju Sharma and Abhishek Mankotia have been named chief coaches for the Mens U-16 and U-14 setups, respectively. In the age-group divisions, former Delhi batter Robin Bisht takes charge as chief coach of the Mens Under-23 team and will be assisted by Mohan Chaturvedi and Rajinder Singh Chawla. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The DDCA also announced a High Performance Group, where former India batter Gursharan Singh and Bantoo Singh have been appointed as chief batting coaches for the mens and womens programs, respectively. Tilak Raj Sharma and V. Arvind will oversee the bowling department in the High Performance division. Article Source: IANS
Will Yashasvi Jaiswal get a chance in India's XI ahead of WI series? Former cricketer opines
The stage is set for the upcoming multi-format white ball series between India and the West Indies. The two sides are slated to take on each other for the first ODI on September 27, and...
World Test Championship: South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad is relishing the opportunity to host Australia for a three-match World Test Championship series, with the reigning champions set to face the top-ranked Test side from October 9. The series features the two sides that met in the 2025 WTC Final at Lord's, where Aiden Markram's 136 and nine wickets from Kagiso Rabada powered South Africa to a five-wicket win over Australia. Conrad is particularly excited about facing Australia on home soil with South Africa hosting them in a Test series for the first time since 2018 as the sides meet again in the current WTC cycle. Any series against Australia is worth looking forward to, and more particularly because it's at home, Conrad told ICC. We haven't had international [Test] cricket in South Africa for almost two years. Certainly looking forward to playing in front of our home crowds against arguably the number one side in the world. I think there's always spice between South Africa and Australia. Maybe not as spicy as in years gone by, but I think the fact that we put one over them in the (World Test Championship) final last year might add a little bit of spice to what should be a really exciting and spicy series. Its always exciting when Australia arrive on our shores and I am sure this one's going to be no different. Conrad believes South Africa can draw valuable lessons from their triumph at Lords, while acknowledging the quality of Australias bowling attack. We respect them for the champion side that they are. I think we exposed one or two vulnerabilities in their lineup last year that I think we can build on. We also know that they've got a world-class bowling attack and we certainly have the belief that when we play to our true potential we could find ways of nullifying that. So loads of learnings. A three-match series is a lot different to a one-off test. It's our first three-match series in I don't know how long. We are accustomed to playing two-match series. So this is going to make it a real test for us. I think from all the learnings that we have taken from the final and the victory over them, it certainly gives us a belief that when we play to our potential, then we can certainly put one over them. The last time the two teams faced each other in Test was in late 2022 and early 2023, when Australia won the three-Test series 2-0 at home. The series coming up will represent a significant task within the 2025-27 WTC cycle, the two teams being currently among the top sides in the standings and both aiming to secure a spot in next year's Ultimate Test at The Oval. The last time the two teams faced each other in Test was in late 2022 and early 2023, when Australia won the three-Test series 2-0 at home. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The first Test match takes place in Durban from 9 to 13 October, followed by the second in Gqeberha from 18 to 22 October and the third in Cape Town from 27 to 31 October. Article Source: IANS
Nepal Stun Afghanistan To Blow Asian Games Cricket Quarterfinals Qualification Wide Open
Afghanistan have one win and one loss in their two matches in the league stage. They don't have a game in hand but are still on top of the three-team Group A table on NRR.
Closing In On Sachin Tendulkar's Record, Joe Root Recalls Early Impression Of India Legend
England captain Joe Root is not far off Sachin Tendulkar's record for the most runs in Test cricket, having recently surpassed the legendary batter as the second fastest to 23,000 international runs.
Asian Games 2026: Nepal Stun Afghanistan In Men's Cricket Event As Rohit, Bhurtel Lead Show
Korogi Sports Park: Nepal produced a stellar all-round performance to stun Afghanistan in their Group A opening match at the Korogi Sports Park here on Friday. Rohit Paudel (33* from 32 balls), Sundeep Jora (34 from 35 balls) and captain Dipendra Singh Airee (15 from 18) led the show with the bat to chase down a modest 103 against a second-string Afghanistan side in a five-wicket win. Earlier, leg-spinner Kushal Bhurtel and left-arm finger spinner Lalit Rajbanshi shared the seven Afghanistan wickets and kept a lid on them in a strong bowling display. It was a strong chase from Nepal despite having lost both of their openers, Bhurtel and Aasif Sheikh, early. Afghanistan left-arm seamer Faridoon Dawoodzai dismissed Bhurtel for a duck, while right-arm speedster Abdullah Ahmadzai got Aasif caught for two. Nepal were in more trouble when they lost Kushal Malla, run out in the seventh over, and they were 31/3 in 6.3 overs. But Sundeep and Rohit put up a strong fight. They kept the scoreboard ticking and found odd boundaries as Afghanistan were under the pump. Sundeep smashed a four and a six in the ninth and the 10th over but was run out in the 10th over as Afghanistan eyed a comeback. However, Dipendra joined Rohit and the two went treaded with caution to avoid any mishaps. They kept finding singles and doubles to inch closer before Rohit hit three fours in the 16th and 17th over when the finishing line was very near. Dipendra departed in the 18th over when Nepal were level on scores, but with the work almost done, Gulsan Jha took the team over the victory line with a single. Bhurtel and Rajbanshi had earlier spun Afghanistan into their spin web, with the latter giving just 13 runs from his four overs and taking three wickets too. Bhurtel scaled four as Afghanistan were never let to score freely. However, Dipendra joined Rohit and the two went treaded with caution to avoid any mishaps. They kept finding singles and doubles to inch closer before Rohit hit three fours in the 16th and 17th over when the finishing line was very near. Dipendra departed in the 18th over when Nepal were level on scores, but with the work almost done, Gulsan Jha took the team over the victory line with a single. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Afghanistan have one win and one loss in their two matches in the league stage. They don't have a game in hand but are still on top of the three-team Group A table on NRR. Nepal have won their first match and will play the winless Japan in their last league game. Each team plays only two matches in the league stage and the top two from each group will make it to the quarterfinals. Article Source: IANS
South Africa had a perfect start to the three-ODI series against Australia on Thursday
Rohit-Kohli Reunion: India Begin ODI Prep
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli were back together in the India nets on Thursday, giving fans an early glimpse of the veterans ahead of the ODI series against the West Indies in Thiruvananthapuram.
'Ten times better': Prasidh Krishna's big comeback promise
India pacer Prasidh Krishna discusses his renewed determination after an injury lay-off, focusing on the upcoming five-Test series against Australia and its significance in the World Test Championship cycle. He also shares insights into the mental and physical demands of rehabilitation and the challenges of playing in New Zealand.
'World Cup In South Africa Will Be Exciting': Prasidh Looks Ahead At Global Showpiece
ODI World Cup: India fast bowler Prasidh Krishna is excited for the upcoming ODI World Cup 2027 in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia as the conditions are set to assist the fast bowlers in the African conditions. The global showpiece returns to South Africa after 24 years and the Indian bowlers would be looking to make the most of the conditions and give the team the best shot at glory. As India enter a crucial preparatory phase for the World Cup with an upcoming three-match ODI series against the West Indies, Prasidh looks ahead to the global tournament and outlines what challenges a bowler faces in the 50-over format. The ODI format is very interesting, and I think its the toughest format because you have to adapt between different phases of the game. For a bowler who has to operate in all three phases, the powerplay has made it even more challenging. But thats the challenge. The harder things get, the fewer people there are who can do it well. Thats what Im looking forward to, Prasidh told JioStar. One-day cricket is exciting, and a World Cup in South Africa will be particularly exciting for fast bowlers. High-scoring games have become the norm, with 300 and 350 now becoming regular scores. But for us as bowlers, the challenge is to restrict the opposition as much as possible and come up with different tactics to get the job done, he added. After hosting the Windies for three ODIs and five T20Is, India will travel to New Zealand for a full-fledged all-format series featuring five T20Is, as many ODIs and two Tests. The tally speedster is now an India regular in the Tests and ODIs and spoke on the New Zealand series, which will be crucial for the Men in Blue. New Zealand is going to be a completely different challenge. Its a beautiful place to play, but as a bowler, it tests you in every way: your skill, your endurance and your ability to keep coming back session after session. After hosting the Windies for three ODIs and five T20Is, India will travel to New Zealand for a full-fledged all-format series featuring five T20Is, as many ODIs and two Tests. The tally speedster is now an India regular in the Tests and ODIs and spoke on the New Zealand series, which will be crucial for the Men in Blue. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories As fast bowlers, were definitely going to be tested. Youre expected to do a lot more in New Zealand than in the subcontinent, and thats the challenge Im looking forward to, he said. Article Source: IANS
Former India cricketer Virender Sehwag's son, Aaryavir, recently played for India U19, and the legendary opener gave his opinion on father-son comparisons in the sport.
Nepal vs Afghanistan Asian Games 2026 Group A Live Score And Live Updates
Nepal vs Afghanistan Asian Games 2026 Live Updates: Afghanistan are struggling against Nepal in a Group A match
Phased Out By Ajit Agarkar, Yet Ravichandran Ashwin's Stunning Verdict Leaves Fans Surprised
The Agarkar-led selection committee has come under scrutiny in recent times, particularly following the episode surrounding Rohit Sharma's future.
'Pistol Shooters Redeemed Well With Gold...': NRAI Chief Kalikesh Singh
National Rifle Association: National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) president Kalikesh Singh Deo hailed 10m pistol mixed team gold, stating that the Indian pistol shooters redeemed themselves well after a little after a bit of a disappointment in men's and women's teams and individual events. Indias Suruchi Singh and Kamaljeet won the gold medal in the mixed 10m air pistol final with an Asian-record score of 484.6 points, securing Indias second gold medal at the Asian Games after the womens cricket team. Great day for Indian shooting; we finally got the elusive gold after a bit of a disappointment. However, our shooter redeemed themselves well with an Asian record and a gold. Amazing performance from Suruchi and Kamaljeet. We have a lot of shooting left here, and I am hopeful India will do well in the remaining events, Kalikesh told IANS on Friday. Earlier, India drew a blank in the men's and women's 10m pistol team, and in the individual event, Kamaljeet, Kedarling Balakrishna and Aakash Bhardwaj missed out on a medal in the men's 10m air pistol team and also failed to qualify for the individual finals. Moreover, there was an agonising end for the Indian trio Esha Singh, Manu Bhaker and Suruchi Inder Singh in the team final as they lost the medal as the two inner-10s stand between them and bronze medallists Vietnam. Later, Manu finished fifth in the individual final. But the mixed team of Suruchi and Kamajeet broke the draw and got India the elusive gold on Friday. Reflecting on India's disappointing show in the pistol team and individual event, the NRAI chief added, In the first two days we got five medals, then skeet contributed three, and today we got two medals. This is a fairly big number of medals, but what we were missing out on was gold. When you go zero in the finals, it depends on the the performance at that time of that athlete. We have to figure out how we have to work with an athlete, coaching and performance team so that we can get more golds. Moreover, there was an agonising end for the Indian trio Esha Singh, Manu Bhaker and Suruchi Inder Singh in the team final as they lost the medal as the two inner-10s stand between them and bronze medallists Vietnam. Later, Manu finished fifth in the individual final. But the mixed team of Suruchi and Kamajeet broke the draw and got India the elusive gold on Friday. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We have a great team of Esha, Manu and Rahi, an experienced team. They will do well, Kalikesh concluded. Article Source: IANS
West Indies players set for 25% pay cut as CWI announces financial restructuring
The upcoming editions of the Super50 and the Women's T20 Blaze have been suspended
Shukla leads Oman demolition as Hong Kong get their first points
In yet another low-scoring game at the Asian Games men's competition, Hong Kong put up just 121 but still beat Oman by 41 runs
South Africa got off to a brilliant start to the ongoing ODI series against Australia. The two sides met at Kingsmead in Durban on September 24th, and South Africa managed to register a dominant 67-run victory in the clash. It is interesting to note that the Proteas came in to bat first and posted a total of 297 runs in the first innings.
Dunith Wellalage And Kusal Mendis Star As Sri Lanka Level England Series In Thriller
Dunith Wellalage took three wickets after captain Kusal Mendis hit a fine century as Sri Lanka beat England by 16 runs at Headingley on Thursday in a last-over thriller to level a three-match one-day international series. I'm so happy winning and getting the hundred, said player-of-the-match Kusal. The overall performance was very good. England were cruising to a target of 322 while Tom Banton (73) and Ben Duckett (67) shared a first-wicket stand of 143. Sri Lanka had been hammered 3-0 in a preceding T20 campaign but Wellalage dragged them back into this match. He removed both openers and home captain Harry Brook to reduce England to 157-3. The left-arm spinner finished with figures of 3-49. Wellalage bowled really well, the whole team, after the powerplay, said Mendis Jos Buttler then threatened to win the game with a barrage of boundaries. But on 64 he pulled up with what a team spokesman said was a left hamstring twinge and retired hurt, with England still requiring 68 off 75 balls for victory. Rehan Ahmed immediately fell for a duck, caught down the legside by wicketkeeper Mendis off Dilshan Madushanka. The runs dried up as Sri Lanka's previously wayward quicks gained reverse swing with the old ball and a target of 19 off the last over proved beyond England. When Jamie Overton fell, a hobbling Buttler resumed his innings with England 295-7. Will Jacks drove Asitha Fernando for six to complete a fifty following his unbeaten 46 during England's 89-run win in Tuesday's series opener at Chester-le-Street. But Jacks then skyed Eshan Malinga to long-on. Buttler, on strike at the start of the last over, connected well off Madushanka but the ball flew straight to deep midwicket and the 36-year-old, one of the outstanding white-ball batsmen of his generation, was gone for good on 69. Kamindu Mendis saved what seemed a certain six by Jofra Archer to leave England needing an improbable 17 off three balls. The teams now head to London for a series-decider at the Oval on Sunday. - 'Outsanding game' - An upbeat Brook said: It was an outstanding game...To restrict them to 320 (321) and have the chance to chase that down was a hell of an effort. The lads got the chase off to a flyer. You couldn't really ask for much more. Brook insisted a series decider was just what England needed ahead of next year's 50-over World Cup in southern Africa. We've got a great opportunity now to try and win this series, and a great opportunity for 12 months' time, he said. In pressure situations, like the one that awaits us at the Oval, it will be great to see where we are as a team. Thursday's game would not have gone the distance without Wellalage. He bowled Duckett with a sharply turning delivery and had Banton stumped by Mendis. Wellalage then pinned the in-form Brook lbw for just one. Mendis's decision to persist with the expensive Sachindu Colombage, appearing in just his second ODI, was rewarded when the leg-spinner had Joe Root caught at short cover for just 15. Buttler completed a 36-ball fifty with a flicked six off Colombage, whose six overs cost 55 runs, and struck the next delivery high over long-off for another six. Earlier, Mendis led from the front with a superb 121 in Sri Lanka's 321-6. With Kamindu Mendis (54), he shared a second-wicket partnership of 137 after winning the toss. Kusal had a reprieve on 17 when Gus Atkinson dropped a two-handed catch in a swirling breeze at fine leg. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Kusal reached his seventh ODI century in style when he cover-drove Overton to the boundary for an 82-ball hundred, including 12 fours and three sixes, before he holed out to leg-spinner Ahmed.
BCCI Strikes Massive Two-Season Sponsorship Deal Days Before West Indies Series
India host the Windies for three ODIs and five T20Is, starting September 27.
When the former pacer was named the chairman of selectors in July 2023, there was a sense of great optimism and feel-good; his tenure, however, was a chequered one with highs in the white-ball format and lows in the Tests
Matthew Breetzke Creates History, Emulates Navjot Sidhu's Huge ODI Record
Matthew Breetzke came in with South Africa struggling at 29 for two on a pitch which offered early assistance to Australian seam bowlers Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Ellis.
Nations League PIX: Dutch hold Germans; Norway, Portugal win
Cody Gakpo scored a stoppage-time equaliser for the Netherlands, securing a 1-1 draw against Germany in their Nations League opener, spoiling Juergen Klopp's debut as Germany's coach. Other Nations League matches saw Erling Haaland lead Norway to victory over Denmark, Portugal defeat Wales, and Greece snatch a late win against Serbia.
Matt Milnes keeps Gloucestershire in check
James Bracey top-scores with 86, Ollie Price makes 52
Sammy: India series a chance for West Indies to assess ODI progress
West Indies head coach views the three-match series as an important part of the team's preparation for the ODI World Cup qualifiers
Ryan Higgins shines with bat and ball as Middlesex take control
Allrounder comes to the rescue after Northamptonshire seamer Ben Sanderson reduces his side to 32 for 4
Woakes, Bamber tighten title grip as Warwickshire take control
Leicestershire technically relegated, pending appeal, after 15-wicket opening day
Ben Allison takes five as Derbyshire are bowled out for 88
Five-for to Mohammed Abbas looked to have put visitors on top but Worcestershire claim ascendancy on 20-wicket day
Emilio Gay hundred sets tone as Durham show champion spirit
Lancashire left to rue dropped catches as Division Two winners pile up runs at Old Trafford
Ben Cliff four-for keeps lid on Notts
Fourth-wicket stand between Haseeb Hameed and Jack Haynes sees hosts fight back from 64 for 3 before Yorkshire seamers impose themselves again
1st ODI: Breetzke, Bowlers Give South Africa A Winning Start Against Australia In Durban
Cricket World Cup: South Africa began their home season with a 67-run win over the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup champions Australia in the first of the three ODI matches at Kingsmead in Durban on Thursday. The Temba Bavuma-led Proteas, the reigning World Test Champions, were right on the mark as they overcame Australia by 67 runs in the first meeting between the two sides in the format since the latter had defeated them in the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup 2023. Asked to bat first after Mitchell Marsh won the toss, South Africa lost an early wicket as Josh Hazlewood struck to give the tourists the advantage. Things became further difficult for the hosts as Nathan Ellis' first-ball special accounted for Quinton de Kock (18) in the eighth over. Matthew Breetzke walked out to bat at 29/2, and over the next three hours displayed positive intent mixed with an ability to find gaps, securing his second ODI hundred along the way. Despite starts for Temba Bavuma (30) and Ryan Rickelton (27), Australia kept themselves in the contest with regular breakthroughs. Things changed when Breetzke found an able partner in Marco Jansen, who smashed 75 off merely 59 to lift South Africa closer to 300. That they fell three runs short was due to the wily efforts of Ellis, who finished at 3-57. Adam Zampa was the second-best bowler with his 2-50. Australia's reply began in stark contrast to South Africa, with Mitchell Marsh unleashing havoc with the willow, racing to a 36-ball 60 before falling when the team score was 90 in the 10th over. He was dismissed by Keshav Maharaj, and soon enough Bavuma understood the pattern of the wicket and unleashed his tweakers to trouble the batters. Maharaj (4-20) and Bjorn Fortuin (2-34) shared six wickets between them, as despite efforts from Travis Head (36), Cooper Connolly (38) and Matt Renshaw (44), Australia's later batters failed to match up to the fireworks of Marsh. Australia's reply began in stark contrast to South Africa, with Mitchell Marsh unleashing havoc with the willow, racing to a 36-ball 60 before falling when the team score was 90 in the 10th over. He was dismissed by Keshav Maharaj, and soon enough Bavuma understood the pattern of the wicket and unleashed his tweakers to trouble the batters. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories South Africa 297/8 in 50 overs (Matthew Breetzke 112, Marco Jansen 75, Temba Bavuma 30; Nathan Ellis 3-57, Adam Zampa 2-50) beat Australia 230 all out in 31.2 overs (Mitchell Marsh 60, Matt Renshaw 44, Cooper Connolly 38, Travis Head 36; Keshav Maharaj 4-20, Corbin Bosch 2-67. Bjorn Fortuin 2-34) by 67 runs Article Source: IANS
South Africa defeated Australia by 67 runs in the opening ODI of the three-match series in Durban. It was their first meeting in the format since the 2023 ODI World Cup semi-final at the iconic...
Breetzke's ton spurs SA to big win over Aus in first ODI
Matthew Breetzke's century led South Africa to a 67-run victory over Australia in the first ODI in Durban. Despite a strong start, Australia's chase faltered due to poor shot selection, losing nine wickets for 101 runs. South Africa posted 297/8, with Breetzke scoring 112 and Marco Jansen adding 75. Australian captain Mitch Marsh expressed disappointment over the team's inability to form partnerships.
Carlson, Tribe hundreds leave Essex under the cosh
Bowling point for visitors at least guarantees safety, pending Leicestershire's pitch penalty appeal
Dan Lawrence ton hits Somerset title hopes
Dom Sibley, Ben Foakes add fifties as team-mate maintains impressive conversion rate on dominant day for Surrey
Weve Not Won A Series In India For 24 Years; Now Is A Great Opportunity: Sammy
The West Indies ODI: West Indies head coach Daren Sammy believes the upcoming three-match ODI series against India will provide his team with a valuable opportunity to test themselves against the worlds No. 1 side and end their 24-year wait to get the taste of success on Indian soil. The three ODIs will be played in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27, Guwahati on September 30, and New Chandigarh on October 3. Sammy acknowledged the significance of facing India in their own conditions, saying the series would offer a clear indication of where his side stands in world cricket. Playing in India is always a great series to take part in. India being the number one team, Sammy said in a clip shared by Cricket West Indies ahead of the ODI series against India. For us to come out here, its been 24 years; weve not won a series here in India. So its a great opportunity for us as a team to come out here and challenge ourselves and measure up to where we are in the world in one-day cricket, he added. West Indies have made progress during the ODI qualification cycle but fell six points short of automatic qualification. They will have to take part in the qualifiers next year. Sammy said the team had come a long way from being significantly behind in the standings. Starting from where we were back then, which was, I think, 19 or 20 points behind, and accumulating those points, I thought we made a lot of strides in making a claim to automatic qualification, he said. The India series will also allow West Indies to assess players ahead of the qualifiers, with Sammy stressing the importance of giving the squad opportunities to perform in different roles. Heading into the qualifiers in February, our number one focus is continuing to fine-tune the team so that when we go to the qualifiers, we put ourselves in a position to book our ticket to South Africa, he said. Sammy highlighted the progress made by the batting unit, with Shai Hope and Keacy Carty forming an important partnership, while other players have also contributed with hundreds. Our batting has come a long way during this period. Shai Hope is not the only one scoring hundreds. Weve gotten hundreds from different players, he said. The coach also pointed to the return of Alzarri Joseph, who was part of Antiguas CPL title-winning campaign, while young players including Jewel Andrew are set to get opportunities. Everybody will be getting an opportunity. Because after that, I think this is probably our last ODI series. It is our last ODI series of the year, Sammy said. The West Indies ODI squad, led by Hope, includes John Campbell, who returns after missing the final two ODIs against New Zealand due to a hamstring injury. Jewel Andrew replaces Ackeem Auguste, who is recovering after surgery, while Shimron Hetmyer has been rested from the ODI leg and will join the team for the T20Is. The coach also pointed to the return of Alzarri Joseph, who was part of Antiguas CPL title-winning campaign, while young players including Jewel Andrew are set to get opportunities. Everybody will be getting an opportunity. Because after that, I think this is probably our last ODI series. It is our last ODI series of the year, Sammy said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The West Indies squad departed the Caribbean on September 21 and arrived in Thiruvananthapuram on September 23 ahead of the opening ODI. Article Source: IANS
The cricketing world was treated to an unforgettable spectacle when India faced Japan in a historic one-off men's T20I at the Sano International Cricket Ground. Persistent rain forced the match to be shortened to five...
Abhiram Singh Yadav Appointed To ICC Chief Executives' Committee
The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Thursday has announced the election of Abhiram Singh Yadav of Persatuan Cricket Indonesia to the ICC Chief Executives' Committee (CEC) as one of the representatives of Associate Members.
Devdutt Padikkal Slams 50 As India A Set 363-Run Target For Australia A In Unofficial Test
Skipper Devdutt Padikkal struck a fifty and first-innings centurion Kumar Kushagra remained unbeaten on 46 as India A set Australia A an improbable target of 363 on day three of their opening four-day game on Thursday.
Hayley Matthews sets new record for West Indies, as visitors beat Zimbabwe by 99 runs in first ODI
Star West Indies batter Hayley Matthews produced a record-breaking innings in the first ODI against Zimbabwe at Harare Sports Club. The all-rounder smacked 182 runs off 156 balls and set the record for the highest...
CRICKET | Sai Sudharsan sees the positives in his injury rehabilitation break
Kusal Mendis century drives Sri Lanka to 321 for 6
Strongest batting display of the tour gives England a stiff challenge in second ODI at Headingley
Padikkal, Kushagra Set Up Victory Push For India A, Bowlers Reduce Australia A To 55/2
Captain Devdutt Padikkal: Captain Devdutt Padikkal made a fluent 59 while in-form Kumar Kushagra chipped in with an unbeaten 46, before India A bowlers reduced Australia A to 55/2 at stumps on Day Three of the first four-day match here on Thursday. At stumps, Australia A require another 308 runs to win, with captain Peter Handscomb and Nathan McSweeney (23 not out) at the crease. India A, who had earned a massive 163-run first-innings lead after bundling out Australia A for 171 on day two, chose against enforcing the follow-on. Resuming their second innings, India A had to contend with a Siechem Ground pitch that started offering uneven bounce, with balls either shooting low at ankle height or rearing up sharply from a length. Despite the difficult conditions, captain Padikkal and his deputy B. Sai Sudharsan (39) added 68 runs for the second wicket to consolidate India A's position after opener Aman Mokhade (9) fell early to Brendan Doggett. Padikkal brought up his half-century off 72 balls and used his feet well against off-spinner Todd Murphy, while dispatching Liam Scott for back-to-back boundaries. His knock eventually ended when a short ball from Scott stayed low and trapped him LBW. Scott also removed Yash Rathod (12) to finish with figures of 2 for 22. Murphy proved to be Australia A's most successful bowler, taking 4-48 by relentlessly targeting the rough and attacking the stumps. Doggett picked up 2-21, including bowling a short ball that struck Kushagra on the chin. Kushagra, however, continued aggressively after receiving medical treatment by hitting two sixes off Murphy in his 59-ball 46 before running out of partners as India A were bowled out for 199. He did not take the field for wicketkeeping duties later in the evening, with substitute N Jagadeesan donning the gloves. Chasing 363, Australia A suffered an early blow when fast bowler Tushar Deshpande trapped opener Campbell Kellaway lbw for a duck with a sharp inswinger in the second over. Sam Konstas (20) and McSweeney added 47 runs for the second wicket to steady the chase briefly. But off-spinner Tanush Kotian broke the stand around 15 minutes before stumps by trapping Konstas LBW. With the pitch cracking up and offering increasingly unpredictable bounce, spinners Kotian and Shams Mulani are expected to play a key role on the final day as India A press for victory. Sam Konstas (20) and McSweeney added 47 runs for the second wicket to steady the chase briefly. But off-spinner Tanush Kotian broke the stand around 15 minutes before stumps by trapping Konstas LBW. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories India A 334 & 199 (Devdutt Padikkal 59, Kumar Kushagra 46 not out; Todd Murphy 4-48, Brendan Doggett 2-21) lead Australia A 171 & 55/2 (Nathan McSweeney 23 not out, Tushar Deshpande 1-5, Tanush Kotian 1-8) by 308 runs Article Source: IANS
Babar Azam Plays First Domestic Red Ball Game After Six Years
Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam on Thursday made his first appearance in the country's domestic first class competition after more than six years.
Fatima Sana Ahead Of Babar Azam? Ex-Pakistan Selector's Explosive Verdict Sparks Debate
Former Pakistan middle-order batter Mohammad Wasim, who has also served as the chief selector of the Pakistan men's cricket team, came up with a bold remark in a recent video on his YouTube channel.
Nicholas Pooran Confirmed As Royal Desert Champions Join Relaunched Abu Dhabi T10
Royal Desert Champions have become the latest team to join the Abu Dhabi T10 as the tournament enters a new era under the stewardship of Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub (ADCSH)
Matthews' 182 sets up 99-run win for West Indies
Mupachikwa's 86 went in vain for Zimbabwe, who were bowled out for 200
If you want to make a name, big runs matter: Aaryavir Sehwag
English Cricketer Robin Das Faces Rape Charges, Suspended By Essex
The 24-year-old Das, who plays for county team Essex, was arrested on August 27, 2025, following an investigation.
Australia-A faces a daunting task on the final day
The visitor needs 308 more runs with eight wickets in hand on a tricky surface to win the first Test
Pooran To Lead Royal Desert Champions In Abu Dhabi T10; Robin Named Team Director
Royal Desert Champions: Former West Indies power-hitting batter Nicholas Pooran has been appointed as the captain and Icon player of the newly formed franchise Royal Desert Champions for the upcoming edition of the Abu Dhabi T10 tournament. The tournament, which enters a new era under the stewardship of Abu Dhabi Cricket & Sports Hub (ADCSH), will take place from November 7 to 20 at the Zayed Cricket Stadium. Alongside Pooran, the new franchise has secured England opener Phil Salt and West Indies all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford as direct platinum picks ahead of the official player draft on September 30. Former India cricketer Robin Singh has been appointed as the Team Director. He comes into the franchise with extensive coaching experience, including a long stint with IPL franchise Mumbai Indians and past title-winning runs in T10 and ILT20 competitions, and will oversee the team's sporting operations. Having been closely associated with the Abu Dhabi tournament format over the years, I am delighted to continue my journey with the Royal Desert Champions. I look forward to building around our strong core a quality and competitive team capable of making an immediate impact in the Abu Dhabi T10, he said. Detailing the vision behind the new team, team owner and UAE-based fintech entrepreneur Amit Narang said, Royal Desert Champions is built on the belief that champions are revealed when conditions are toughest. The desert embodies the qualities we want this team to stand for - resilience, courage, adaptability, and ambition. As the first new founding team of this new Abu Dhabi T10 era, we have the opportunity to create something distinctive from the ground up - a team that the emirate can be proud of, a brand that connects with fans locally and globally, and a franchise with the ambition to build a lasting legacy. With Nicholas leading us, supported by outstanding players such as Phil and Sherfane, we have an exciting core around which to build. We are here to compete, to win and to create something that endures, Narang added. As the first new founding team of this new Abu Dhabi T10 era, we have the opportunity to create something distinctive from the ground up - a team that the emirate can be proud of, a brand that connects with fans locally and globally, and a franchise with the ambition to build a lasting legacy. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The new team ownership has set out a clear direction for the team, and they are already assembling an impressive combination of leadership, experience, and international talent. With Robin guiding the sporting operation and Nicholas, Phil and Sherfane providing such a solid early foundation on the field, it will be exciting to see how the Royal Desert Champions take shape ahead of November, he added. Article Source: IANS
Asian Games: Seema Kumari Wins Historic 10,000M bronze
Indian track and field athlete Seema won a landmark bronze medal for the country in women's 10,000m final at the Asian Games in Nagoya on Thursday.
Padikkal Fifty Helps India A Set Solid Target For Australia A
India A, led by skipper Devdutt Padikkal's fifty and Kumar Kushagra's unbeaten 46, set Australia A a challenging target of 363 runs on day three of their four-day match in Puducherry. Australia A ended the day at 55/2, needing 308 more runs to win.
Breetzke's hundred, Jansen's fireworks take South Africa to 297
The home side had been wobbling on 168 for 5 but a sixth-wicket stand of 107 transformed the innings
South Africa kicked off their ODI series against Australia by taking on the side at Kingsmead in Durban. The two sides met on September 24th, and there were several talking points from the game as...
Sri Lanka bat, bring in Eshan Malinga
England unchanged from victory in Durham; Wanindu Hasaranga ruled out of the series
Muhammad Shahzad smashes fastest first-class hundred by a Pakistani batter
He reached the mark in just 49 balls, breaking the previous record set by Misbah-ul-Haq
Laxmi Ratan Shukla Named Rest Of India Batting Coach For Irani Cup Clash With J&K
Laxmi Ratan Shukla: Former India all-rounder and current Bengal senior mens head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla has been appointed as the batting coach of the Rest of India (ROI) side for their upcoming Irani Cup clash with Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir. The match is scheduled to be played from October 1 to 5 at the Sher-e-Kashmir Stadium. This marks Shukla's first coaching assignment with a BCCI team. Former India fast bowler and ex-national selector Debasish Mohanty will serve as the bowling coach for the game, while Milap Mewada has been named the fielding coach, a BCCI source confirmed to IANS on Thursday. Shukla, 46, played 3 ODIs for India in 1999 and represented Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Capitals in the IPL. He has been serving as Bengal's head coach for the past few seasons. Notably, Bengal's Ranji Trophy campaign in the previous season ended with a semifinal defeat to eventual champions Jammu and Kashmir. India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will lead the 15-member Rest of India squad, with right-handed batter Sarfaraz Khan named as his deputy. Jammu and Kashmir, having secured their maiden Ranji Trophy title earlier this year, will be making their first-ever appearance in the prestigious Irani Cup on home turf. The ROI squad features fast bowler Akash Deep, who has been on the sidelines for the last seven months due to a lower back injury, though his participation remains subject to clearing a fitness test. India pacer Mukesh Kumar will spearhead the bowling attack alongside Mukesh Choudhary and Aryan Pandey. India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will lead the 15-member Rest of India squad, with right-handed batter Sarfaraz Khan named as his deputy. Jammu and Kashmir, having secured their maiden Ranji Trophy title earlier this year, will be making their first-ever appearance in the prestigious Irani Cup on home turf. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Karnataka's Smaran Ravichandran, the leading run-scorer in last season's Ranji Trophy, is present alongside Sanat Sangwan, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, and Ayush Doseja, while Aryan Juyal is the back-up wicketkeeper in the squad. Article Source: IANS
'I Accept My Failures': Gambhir Opens Up on 2-Year India Journey
Gautam Gambhir reflects on two years as India coach, accepting successes and failures, praising four captains for their team-first approach, and backing Shubman Gill's leadership future.
I've Had My Share Of Failures: Gautam Gambhir's Honest Verdict On His Two-Year India Stint
India head coach Gautam Gambhir reflected on his two-year tenure, acknowledging both successes and failures across Test, ODI and T20 cricket.
Rinku Singh sets eye on Test cricket, expects Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma to play ODI World Cup 2027
After proving his mettle in the shortest format of the game, flamboyant batter Rinku Singh has set his sights on Test cricket for India. He doesnt want to be defined as a T20 specialist and...
Odisha T20 League: Former India captain Sourav Ganguly was his childhood idol, but Bhubaneswar Tigers pacer Rajesh Mohanty found his true calling with the ball. It reflected when Mohanty, the former India U19 speedster, produced a clinical spell in a rain-affected match against Kataka Panthers in the ongoing Odisha T20 League. Before we left the hotel, our meeting was very clear that the match would be a short-overs game. So, whatever we had planned for the batters and whatever the bowlers had planned, we came fully prepared for that. We had decided that we would play all the overs with full intent. As a senior player, if you come forward at such a time, the junior players also get some motivation. They also start playing well. My plan was that when their main batters came to bat, I would come to bowl. We played according to the plan and thankfully, we were successful, he said in a statement by the tournament on Thursday. Recalling his early days in cricket and how his coach Deepak Mangaraj guided his transition to pace bowling after being a top-order batter, Mohanty explained, I started playing cricket a little late in 2015. My mentor and coach Deepak Mangaraj helped me start bowling. When I came to him, I started fast bowling. I follow the whole process even today. The result is not in my hands. I don't think too much about the result. I focus on the process, whether it is training or bowling, and leave the result to God. I was a batter, but my coach saw something in me in fast bowling. He told me to focus on bowling, so I slowly started bowling more and stopped concentrating as much on batting. I started enjoying bowling and then felt that bowling could be my career. Explaining his connection with Ganguly and why he wears the number 99 jersey, Mohanty revealed how the former India skipper influenced his early aspirations. I started cricket after watching Sourav Ganguly. He used to bowl medium pace and bat left-handed. I used to play as an opener and also bowl with the new ball. There was a little more load on the body, but when I started training and bowling, I got used to it. Then I started enjoying bowling and playing regularly, and I thought bowling was my career. So, I decided to focus on it. Mohanty credited his stint at the prestigious MRF Pace Foundation with elevating his understanding of the game. When I went to MRF, I got to learn a lot. My bowling was perhaps 20-30 per cent good at that time, but after going there, I improved a lot. The coaching and the training helped me understand my bowling better. I got to learn more about how to bowl to good batsmen in domestic cricket. I got a lot of support from the people there, he said. Reflecting fondly on his India U19 days alongside teammates who have gone on to shine in the IPL and domestic circuits, Mohanty expressed pride in their collective achievements. We are still in touch. There are three or four boys whom we still speak to, including Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran (Singh) and Nehal Wadhera. It feels very good to see them playing in the IPL and doing well in domestic cricket. We used to play together and we won the Asia Cup. So, I feel very proud when I see them doing well. Picking his favourite memory from his junior days, he added, I had to defend six or seven runs in one over. I gave away two runs. We won the match. I think that was a turning point in my career. So, being in India U19 is my favourite memory. Staying grounded about his goals, Mohanty stressed the importance of process over results and praised his strength and conditioning coach, Shakti Swarup Mohapatra, for maintaining his physical fitness across all formats. The result is not in my hands. The process that is in my hands, whether it is training or bowling, I just focus on that. I have left the result to God. As long as I can play, I will focus on my process. He (S&C coach) has a very good training programme for me. He wants me to stay fit and play all three formats. Without an S&C coach, I feel it is very difficult to play. I give him a lot of credit, he said. The result is not in my hands. The process that is in my hands, whether it is training or bowling, I just focus on that. I have left the result to God. As long as I can play, I will focus on my process. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories New talent is coming from all over India and people are watching these matches. Scouts are also coming, so it is a good platform for new stars to emerge. Those who do well here can get an opportunity to play in the IPL, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
'We Are In Great Position': Mushtaq Ahmed Backs Bangladesh's WTC Chances
Bangla National Cricket Stadium: Bangladesh spin-bowling coach Mushtaq Ahmed has backed his team's chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship final. Bangladesh are currently placed fourth in the WTC points table with a PCT of 55.56, behind table toppers Australia (80%), South Africa (75%) and New Zealand (72.22%) and ahead of India (55.56%). They were recently bolstered by their historic win over Australia in Darwin, but lost to the mighty 2023 champions in the second Test in Mackay. Ahmed, however, believes that his team has got 'all the right to go all the way' if they keep doing their work. Inshallah, why not? We are in a great position now. If we play good cricket and keep believing, we have the right to go all the way, said Mushtaq. The only way you can win matches at the international level is when you are not worried about losing. This is the mindset we, as coaches, have to change. Credit goes to all the players, selectors, and stakeholders because they are on the same page and believe we can challenge any team now, he added. Ahmed is currently at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium conducting a four-day spin camp for local bowlers. He also emphasised the need to build spin-bowling coaches to unearth spin talent in the nation. Bangladesh cricket structure with the spinners is very good. That's why I think those camps have to be regular. Every third month we should do that because I think they will get lots of benefits from it, he said. Not only spinners, but we can develop the spin bowling coaches also locally, so they can understand how to work with the basics and alignment and technical and tactical (stuff) Bangladesh cricket structure with the spinners is very good. That's why I think those camps have to be regular. Every third month we should do that because I think they will get lots of benefits from it, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The spin department is always about when to attack and when not to. Is this a situation to restrict runs or to take wickets? With the pitch spinning, what field positions do you need? What are the strengths of the batsman? You have to teach them all these things and then tell them that good overs will get you wickets, not just good balls, he added. Article Source: IANS
Captain Farhan not worried about inexperience of Pakistan's Asian Games squad
After four days of preparing in spinning conditions in Karachi, Farhan is eager to lead his team in Aichi-Nagoya
Laxmi Ratan Shukla Appointed Rest Of India Batting Coach For Irani Cup
Current Bengal head coach Laxmi Ratan Shukla has been appointed the batting coach of the Rest of India side that will take on Jammu and Kashmir in the Irani Cup game in Srinagar from October 1 to 5.
When and where to watch England vs Sri Lanka 2nd ODI live on TV and stream online in India?
After sealing the T20I series 3-0, England kicked off the ODI series with an 89-run win at Chester-le-Street. Captain Harry Brook and Will Jacks kept the scoreboard ticking for the majority of the period, while...
Indonesia Chairman Abhiram Singh Yadav Elected To ICC Chief Executives Committee
Indonesia Chairman Abhiram Singh Yadav: Persatuan Cricket Indonesia Chairman Abhiram Singh Yadav has been elected as an Associate Member representative on the influential ICC Chief Executives Committee (CEC), the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Thursday. Yadav won the contest to fill the vacancy created after France's Gurumurthy Palani was elevated to the ICC Board during its annual conference in Edinburgh, Scotland, in July this year. He will serve out the remaining 10 months of the two-year term alongside current Associate representatives Gurdeep Klair and Anuraag Bhatnagar. Mr Yadav will serve on the CEC until the next elections, which will be held at the ICC Annual Conference in June 2027, further said the statement from the ICC. The election of Yadav to the influential panel marks another significant milestone for cricket in Indonesia, a rapidly growing nation in the sport's global expansion roadmap. It is also likely to host the ICC's quarterly meetings in Bali in November. Yadav emerged victorious from a field that included candidates from European nations Jersey, the Netherlands and Germany. Speaking previously to IANS, Yadav had stated his collaborative, tailored approach to supporting emerging cricket nations across diverse regions. One member may be advanced in an area where another is only beginning, and somewhere else the position may be reversed. There is enormous knowledge within Associate cricket. We should be sharing it and helping each other to make progress in cricket. These are not six prescriptions that every country must follow in the same way. They are areas where I believe representation can make a practical difference. The priorities within them have to come from the Members themselves. Speaking previously to IANS, Yadav had stated his collaborative, tailored approach to supporting emerging cricket nations across diverse regions. One member may be advanced in an area where another is only beginning, and somewhere else the position may be reversed. There is enormous knowledge within Associate cricket. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Under Yadav's chairmanship in Indonesia, the country qualified for the inaugural 2023 ICC U19 Women's T20 World Cup and made its debut at the 2026 Women's Asia Cup in Dubai. The nation is also developing permanent turf wickets through the Bali International Oval project, and earned public endorsement from ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta. Article Source: IANS
Asian Games: Malaysia Steamroll Hong Kong, China To Start Group B On High Note
Korogi Sports Park: The Malaysian cricket team began its Asian Games 2026 campaign with a strong win over Hong Kong, China in the Group B opener at the Korogi Sports Park here on Thursday. Unbeaten knocks from Virandeep Singh (32) and Muhamad Syahadat (36) led Malaysia to chase down a meagre target of 82 against Hong Kong after Pavandeep Singh and Muhammad Amir Azim took three-wicket hauls each for Malaysia in a strong eight-wicket victory. Hong Kong China had elected to bat first, but they were never really allowed to settle in with the bat. Left-arm spinners Pavandeep, Amir Azim and Virandeep shared seven wickets, while Malaysian skipper Syed Aziz Mubaraj and left-arm pacer Muhammad Wafiq took one wicket each to restrict Hong Kong to 81/9 in their 20 overs. For Hong Kong, China, Shiv Mathur put up a mostly lone fight with his 29 from 39 balls, while Hassan Khan Mohammad added 13 runs in the end and opener Nizakat Khan scored 19 at the start. Malaysia lost their openers early in the chase as right-arm pacer Nasrulla Rana removed both of them in his first over and the innings' second to put Malaysia under pressure. However, Virandeep and Syahadat dropped anchor to stabilise the innings. They put up an unbeaten stand of 70 for the third wicket to take the team home in the 12 overs with 48 balls to spare. The two teams will now face Oman in their last Group B matches before two of the three teams qualify for the quarterfinals. Earlier, Afghanistan had defeated Japan in the Group A opener. Afghanistan trounced an impressive Japanese side in the men's cricket opener at the Asian Games 2026 as they beat the hosts in a Group A clash by 48 runs. The second-string Afghanistan team, led by Darwish Rasooli, defended a modest 129 after a decent start from Japan, with spinners doing the work to bowl the hosts out for 81 in 19.3 overs. Debutant leg-spinner Arab Gul Momand picked up four wickets, while left-arm finger spinner Nangeyalia Kharoti, pacer Abdullah Ahmadzai, and Najibullah Zadran shared the other six wickets. The second-string Afghanistan team, led by Darwish Rasooli, defended a modest 129 after a decent start from Japan, with spinners doing the work to bowl the hosts out for 81 in 19.3 overs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief scores: Malaysia 84/2 (Muhamad Syahadat 36* from 32 balls, Virandeep Singh 32* from 32 balls; Nasrulla Rana 2-23) beat Hong Kong 81/9 (Shiv Mathur 29 from 39 balls, Nizakat Khan 19 from 14 balls; Pavandeep Singh 3-11, Muhammad Amir Azim 3-12) by eight wickets Article Source: IANS
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He Knows My Thinking, I Know His Thinking: Gambhir Opens Up On Equation With Rohit
New Delhi: Stating that their mutual understanding extends far beyond the traditional dynamics, India head coach Gautam Gambhir on Thursday said his long-standing bond with veteran opener and ex-captain Rohit Sharma has been strong, saying that both are aware of how each others thinking works. Gambhir and Rohit will reunite in the dressing room when India begin their home season when they take on West Indies in the first of three ODIs starting in Thiruvananthapuram on Sunday. Rohit and my relationship wasn't just of captain and coach. When Rohit came into the team, I was a senior player at that time, so Rohit and my relationship is from back then. Rohit has known me since then. So, often when you have played together, things become very easy. And in fact, he knows my thinking; I know his thinking. Because tomorrow I might have some other thinking, the captain might have some other thinking, but ultimately, whatever is in the best interest of the team, if that's the final decision, then nothing can be better than that. And that's why I said that with all four captains I have worked with, this has been my experience with them, that everyone's focus has been Indian cricket, Gambhir told JioStar. Elaborating on his experience working alongside leaders across formats since taking charge in July 2024, starting from Rohit to Suryakumar Yadav and now with current T20I skipper Shreyas Iyer and Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, Gambhir lauded their collective 'team-first' attitude. I have worked with four captains, Rohit, Surya, now with Shubman and Shreyas. All the captains Ive worked with, everyones first intention has always been team first. And I am very fortunate that I have worked with four such people who have always put the team ahead of themselves. Ideology can change, your thinking can change, your perspective on reading the game can change, but as long as your intention is right, it makes life a lot easier for any support staff. It started with Rohit, and when Surya became captain for T20, it was a different experience with both of them. I have worked with four captains, Rohit, Surya, now with Shubman and Shreyas. All the captains Ive worked with, everyones first intention has always been team first. And I am very fortunate that I have worked with four such people who have always put the team ahead of themselves. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories If you get captaincy on a tour of England, that too in five Test matches, and if you push someone into the deep sea, either you will swim out really well or you will drown. But the way Shubman has handled Test cricket, it has been brilliant, and I think we will see the best of Shubman in the coming years, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Cherished Success Across Formats, Accepted Failures With Both Hands: Gambhir
T20 World Cup: Reflecting on his two-year stint at the helm of the India mens team, head coach Gautam Gambhir said he accepts his share of failures with both hands, while cherishing the success achieved across formats. Under Gambhirs tenure, which began in July 2024, India won the 2025 Champions Trophy and the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup, but also suffered Test series defeats to Australia in away conditions, as well as to New Zealand and South Africa at home. The two years didn't pass in the blink of an eye. I think I've had my own share of ups and downs. I've had my own failures and successes. But again, I've always believed that when you take up that kind of responsibility, there will always be ups and downs. So, whether it was Test cricket, whether it is one-day cricket or T20 cricket, yes, I've had success, which obviously I will always cherish, but I've had my share of failures as well. Which again, I accept with both hands, Gambhir told broadcasters JioStar. Addressing the ongoing transition in the Test side following the departures of senior match-winners like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravichandran Ashwin, Gambhir stressed on the importance of building a strong core for the future under current captain Shubman Gill. After the white-ball games against West Indies at home, India are scheduled to play a multi-format series in New Zealand, before facing Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in white-ball matches at home and then host Australia for a five-game Test series. I think the best part is that we've played reasonably good Test cricket since England. I'm not saying that we're still not a work in progress because the amount of transition that has happened in Test cricket, especially with the likes of Rohit, Virat, Ashwin going, obviously it is very difficult to replace those kinds of players. After the white-ball games against West Indies at home, India are scheduled to play a multi-format series in New Zealand, before facing Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe in white-ball matches at home and then host Australia for a five-game Test series. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Because when youre getting the new guys in red-ball cricket, you look at their age and number of matches they have played, you try to make them feel how important Test cricket is, because Im a very big believer that a strong Test cricketing nation is a strong cricketing nation. So, red-ball still remains our priority, added Gambhir. Article Source: IANS
The Indian team is gearing up for several assignments in the future; with the side set to take on the West Indies, they also have a heavy schedule for the upcoming tour of New Zealand....
Cristiano Ronaldo opens up on his decision to not retire from Portugal after FIFA World Cup 2026
The UEFA Nations League is right around the corner, and the best international sides in world football are hard at work to prepare during the international break. Ahead of the tournament, many fans were left...
Kumble Conducts Two-day Masterclass For Emerging Spinners At BCCI Centre Of Excellence
Team India Head: Former India captain and legendary leg-spinner Anil Kumble recently conducted a special two-day masterclass for targeted young spinners at the Board of Control for Cricket in Indias (BCCI) Centre of Excellence (CoE) here. The session was designed to help the country's upcoming spinners refine their skills under the guidance of Kumble, India's highest wicket-taker in international cricket through 619 Test wickets and 337 ODI scalps. Earlier this month, the Targeted and Emerging Spinners spent a 2-day masterclass at the BCCI Centre of Excellence with one of India's biggest match-winners with the ball - Mr. Anil Kumble. The attendees had the privilege of hearing from the legend on what it takes to succeed at the Elite Level and also working on specifics as Mr. Kumble enriched them on the finer aspects of their game, the BCCI posted on its official 'X' handle on Thursday. Also present during the masterclass was former India left-arm spinner Sunil Joshi, who serves as the dedicated spin-bowling coach at the state-of-the-art high-performance facility in Bengaluru. Joshi is also a part of the Indian mens squad for the upcoming Asian Games mens T20 cricket event in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan. Earlier this year, former India left-arm pacer Zaheer Khan conducted a specialised three-day red-ball camp for pacers from India A and U-19 setups at the CoE. Ex-India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also conducted a specialised four-day camp for off-spinners at the CoE from March 23-26. In the camp conducted by Harbhajan, Tanush Kotian, Himanshu Singh and Saransh Jain were present. Meanwhile, the CoE is still seeking applicants for Head of Sports Science and Medicine at the facility. The key role remains vacant following Nitin Patel's resignation in March 2025, with CoE head VVS Laxman and BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia previously highlighting the ongoing challenges in identifying a suitable candidate for the crucial post. Earlier this year, former India left-arm pacer Zaheer Khan conducted a specialised three-day red-ball camp for pacers from India A and U-19 setups at the CoE. Ex-India off-spinner Harbhajan Singh also conducted a specialised four-day camp for off-spinners at the CoE from March 23-26. In the camp conducted by Harbhajan, Tanush Kotian, Himanshu Singh and Saransh Jain were present. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The position will have a key focus on player welfare, injury prevention and rehabilitation, physical development, research, innovation and the adoption of relevant technologies and services. The selected candidate will be based out of the CoE in Bengaluru and will report directly to Laxman. Interested candidates have been asked to submit their applications by September 30. Article Source: IANS
WPL (Womens Premier League) franchise Mumbai Indians women took centre stage and announced the departure of Lisa Keightley as the sides head coach. It is interesting to note that Keightley has been appointed Cricket Australia's...
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WPL 2027: Luke Williams takes over as Mumbai Indians head coach
Mumbai Indians have appointed Luke Williams as their new head coach for the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2027 season, replacing Lisa Keightley who has decided to move on from the role.
Faf's run-making spree, Gous' finale special among top 5 moments of inaugural ETPL
Digital Desk | Malahide, Sep 24 (IANS) High-octane run chases, devastating bowling spells and individual brilliance underscored the inaugural edition of the European T20 Premier League (ETPL), which concluded with Edinburgh Castle Rockers lifting the maiden trophy. Here is a look at the five standout moments that defined the first season of the ETPL: Faf du Plessis sets the stage on fire Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis made an immediate impact for Rotterdam Dockers by anchoring their campaign right from the tournament opener. Du Plessis struck an unbeaten 83 off 55 balls against Amsterdam Flames to set up a comfortable chase with 11 balls to spare. The veteran opener maintained his form throughout and finished as the leagues highest run-getter with 449 runs in 10 innings at an impressive average of 56.13 and a strike rate of 139.44. His clinical consistency in the competition helped him bag the 'Player of the Series' award. Maxwell's qualifier masterclass fuels Belfast With a spot in the Grand Final on the line, Australias veteran all-rounder Glenn Maxwell turned in a classic match-winning performance for Belfast Wolves against Amsterdam Flames. Operating with the ball, Maxwell wrecked Amsterdams middle-order, picking up 4-18 in four overs, dismissing key dangerous hitters including Bas de Leede (3), Tim David (2), Curtis Campher (4) and Michael Bracewell (2). Later with the bat, when Belfast needed 38 runs off 27 balls, Maxwell walked in and slammed a blistering 21 off eight balls, packed with three sixes and wrapped up his chase with nine balls left to take his team to the summit clash. James Vince hits tournament's lone ton Dublin Guardians' James Vince registered the highest individual score of ETPL 2026 - scoring a brilliant unbeaten 106 off 61 balls against Rotterdam Dockers in the final league fixture. Chasing a daunting target of 189 at Malahide, Vinces knock, laced with 10 boundaries and five maximums, guided Dublin to 192/5 with six balls to spare. In that process, Vinces knock knocked Rotterdam out of playoffs contention, and it became the only century of the inaugural season. Andries Gous seals title with unbeaten 90 Chasing a 151-run target against Belfast Wolves in the Grand Final at Malahide, Edinburgh Castle Rockers required a calm hand to hunt it down, and top-order batter Andries Gous stepped up to the plate. Gous anchored the chase from start to finish with an unbeaten 90 off 61 balls, hitting eight fours and four sixes. Edinburgh reached 151/3 in 18.4 overs, securing a seven-wicket victory with eight balls remaining to become the inaugural ETPL champions. Gous was named 'Player of the Match' for his heroic effort. Five-wicket hauls galore for bowlers Despite heavy scoring throughout the tournament, bowlers made their presence felt with five different players recording a five-wicket haul. South Africa speedster Anrich Nortje posted figures of 5-11 for Rotterdam Dockers against Belfast Wolves, while off-spinner Michael Bracewell registered 5-12 for Amsterdam Flames. Bracewell finished as the joint-leading wicket-taker alongside Nortje with 19 scalps. The remaining 'fifers' of the season came from Mitchell Santner (5-16) for Edinburgh Castle Rockers, Craig Young (5-21) for Dublin Guardians, and Trent Boult (5-24) for Edinburgh against Glasgow Cosmic - a spell that holds the distinction of being the first five-wicket haul in ETPL history.
Luke Williams Replaces Lisa Keightley As Mumbai Indians Head Coach For WPL 2027
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Two-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have appointed Luke Williams as their new head coach ahead of the 2027 Womens Premier League (WPL) season. Williams, who coached Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their maiden WPL title in 2024, takes over from Lisa Keightley, who decided to step down from her role. Im really excited to be joining Mumbai Indians, a respected and successful organisation, and working with this talented group of players and support staff. We have a great opportunity to build something together, play an exciting brand of cricket and compete for success. Im looking forward to the challenge and to giving our fans plenty to be proud of, Williams said in a statement on Thursday. Lisa, the former Australia womens cricketer, was made the MI head coach ahead of WPL 2026 as a replacement for Charlotte Edwards, who took up England womens head coach job. But Lisa joining Cricket Australia as the national development lead earlier this month, where she will be responsible for the development of the women's game, left her in doubt over continuing with MI in the WPL. Williams previously parted ways with RCB last year ahead of the mega auction held in New Delhi due to scheduling overlaps with the Womens Big Bash League (WBBL), where hes head coach of the Adelaide Strikers. We are delighted to welcome Luke Williams to the Mumbai Indians family. Luke is a proven winner and brings with him rich experience, a deep understanding of the womens game, and a strong commitment to developing players. Our girls have created a proud legacy in the WPL, and I am confident that, with Lukes guidance and Harmans leadership, they will continue to grow, achieve greater success, and inspire young girls everywhere to dream big. I wish Luke, and the entire team the very best as we begin this exciting new chapter together. I would also like to thank Lisa Keightley for her contribution to Mumbai Indians and wish her the very best for the future, said MI owner Nita M. Ambani. Our girls have created a proud legacy in the WPL, and I am confident that, with Lukes guidance and Harmans leadership, they will continue to grow, achieve greater success, and inspire young girls everywhere to dream big. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Action will then move to the WPL 2027 player auction, scheduled to be held on October 28 in Kochi. According to a BCCI statement, the tournament will be played from January 14 to February 7, 2027, though the host cities for the marquee five-team tournament are yet to be revealed. Article Source: IANS
Asian Games Gold will drive women's cricket growth: Shafali
Star opener Shafali Verma believes India's women's cricket is on an upward trajectory, with more medals and trophies expected to fuel its growth, following their gold medal defence at the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games.
Luke Williams takes over from Lisa Keightley as Mumbai Indians' head coach in WPL
Luke Williams has had success in the WPL in the past, back in 2024, when he was the head coach in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's title run
Scott Boland 'can't Remember Anything' Of South Africa As He Prepares For Test Assignment
New South Wales: Australian fast bowler Scott Boland will return to South Africa after 10 years, since he played his last ODI in the African nation in 2016, as he gears up for the upcoming Test series against the Proteas. Boland is known for his Test cricket exploits, and hardly anyone remembers him playing ODIs and T20Is for Australia. He himself says he can't remember anything about his ODI tour of South Africa in 2016. I can't remember anything, Boland said on Thursday. To be fair, I know on field we didn't go that well. We had a really inexperienced bowling attack. But apart from that, I can't remember anything. I don't remember where we were. I don't know if I've just binned that memory because it didn't go well. But I feel like ten years ago was a long time. Boland played three ODIs in the five-match series in which the 2015 champions Australia lost 0-5 to the Proteas. The Aussies missed the likes of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins as Boland played with John Hastings, Chris Tremain, Joe Mennie and Dan Worrall. He now returns to South Africa feeling far better than previously. I haven't changed too much in terms of what I do, in terms of like how I bowl, Boland said. But I think the biggest change is in preparing for games, knowing my body better, getting all those little things right. I think ten years ago, I probably over-trained and would go into games, especially the back-end of series, fatigued. And I think now, obviously being a bit older, wanting my career to go for as long as I can, sort of prioritising the way I train, how I train, and sort of mapping it out a bit better, so I can get to the end of series and still have a little bit of energy in the tank, and then I think I just know my game so much better. And I think a lot of guys say that as they get older, they wish they knew what they did. Same for me at 37, if I knew what I [do now] at 27, I probably would have performed better. I think ten years ago, I probably over-trained and would go into games, especially the back-end of series, fatigued. And I think now, obviously being a bit older, wanting my career to go for as long as I can, sort of prioritising the way I train, how I train, and sort of mapping it out a bit better, so I can get to the end of series and still have a little bit of energy in the tank, and then I think I just know my game so much better. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I was pretty keen to have two weeks of no bowling after that series, Boland said. I felt like I was bowling really well in the nets and centre wickets up there. So when that opportunity passed, and I focused on what my re-load looked like, I was going to be bowling around 10, 12 overs this time of the year before going on Sunday, so I think this game fit in really well, he added. Article Source: IANS
