With Royal Challengers Bengaluru: With Royal Challengers Bengaluru winning their second successive IPL title with a five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans, the back-to-back wins are not the product of fortune, but of deliberate design, meticulous auction strategy and a dressing room culture being rock-solid in nature. For years, RCB were always regarded as a franchise that had a lot of stars, but were hugely imbalanced batting always got the big money, with bowling being their perennial weak link. But after Andy Flower and Mo Bobat took over as head coach and Director of Cricket respectively, RCB began to have a strong, well-balanced unit which is evident in their back-to-back IPL wins delighting franchise T20 cricket's most passionate fan base. I suppose when Andy and I first joined the franchise and we obviously had a first year that was a season of two halves and pretty challenging. Then we had the benefit of a mega auction and a bit of a reset, having learned some really strong lessons in the year before. The opportunity also to introduce Rajat as a new captain, which felt like a blank slate for us. At that point, I probably looked at this cycle and having come through a really good auction, we were very ambitious and optimistic about what we could do with this squad. I never came here or felt like we wouldn't achieve the elusive first trophy. I know that many teams had tried and many management teams and players had tried over lots of years to try and win that first trophy. I never really doubted that we would do that. I suppose I always had it in my mind that once we won that first one, we needed to not settle for that as being what we've come here to do or what we're all getting together to do, because like any sports team, you want to have almost like a bit of an infinite goal that you're just always striving towards achieving something that constantly inspires your fans, said Bobat in the virtual press conference organised by RCB on Monday. On strategy, Bobat was equally emphatic, revealing that a top-two finish in the group stage was always the north star. So, how has it been different? Well, last year through the season, as we built our confidence, it felt like something we had to achieve and get done and almost tick off that first milestone, whereas this year has felt quite different. From the moment we finished last season, we've tried to push people to be ambitious about going again. There's been probably a deeper confidence amongst the player group this year and probably us as well as a management group around what the players are capable of, which obviously comes from success. Across both seasons, I've probably been personally quite keen and fixed on trying to achieve top two, because I think the 14 game group stage is quite a gruelling campaign. If you can put yourself in a position to finish top two, I think everybody knows historically what that means for your chances. So I guess part of my role is setting that bigger picture ambition and having something on the horizon that everyone's working towards. Andy is excellent at getting people to focus on what's coming in front of us and the game and the game ahead because it's certainly one of the things that I think he did brilliantly, he added. Among the critical changes that RCB have made to the make-up of the squad over the last two auctions is going in search of proven, experienced players rather than taking a punt at unknowns. It meant they had a compact squad at their disposal. I don't know whether you can win a competition at the auction. I think you can probably lose one at the auction. It's quite hard to undo things that you then either regret or don't like about your team structure, or even personnel, once you've got through your first mega auction, and then you're only dealing with mini auctions in the subsequent years. So I would probably say, in my still fairly limited experience, that I'm not sure you win a competition at the auction, but you can certainly lose one there. Then it gets quite difficult in the mini auction years. You're right it's funny - when we finished our mega auction, I think we were ranked second bottom for the quality of the squad by quite a lot of broadcasters and a lot of experts, and many people had us to finish last. That was certainly nothing that affected our thought process or psychology. We were clear on what we were trying to build as a squad in terms of team structure. We were quite clear on the attributes and characteristics that we wanted from players. That's a combination of skill and character. Both of those things are really important and we got pretty much everything we wanted and more at the auction. So we came out of that auction very happy, like most teams tend to do after an auction, but pretty confident that we could do the things that we wanted to do. It's obvious when anyone looks at our squad that we've massively valued experience across key roles. Andy mentioned some of the names earlier, and having the likes of Virat and Rajat as retentions was a really good start, he recalled. The franchise's emphasis on battle-hardened experience was a conscious and calculated call. But then adding players of the calibre of Phil Salt, Tim David, Bhuvi, Hazlewood, Krunal - these are battle-hardened men, and that's quite important, I think, in a competition as demanding as the IPL - the games come thick and fast. You've got to be able to move on from defeats quite quickly, and you need guys that are really calm under pressure. I once heard a phrase used about another elite sportsman that always stuck with me, that some of the best sportsmen, the pressure moments, find them, if that makes sense. We've got quite a few players where the pressure moments gravitate towards them. They seem to be in the middle when these things are happening. Yesterday, our bowling was a great example of that. Bhuvi and Hazlewood started brilliantly, Krunal doing his thing. Great contributions from others, of course. Both Duffy and Rasikh were obviously excellent. The pressure always finds Virat. He finds a way to be in the thick of things when the game's on the line. That's what champion players do. We valued all of those things when we put our squad together. Before we played our first game or bowled our first ball, we were confident that we had a squad that could be competitive. As we described, the confidence builds through the season and a huge amount goes into auction prep. You've probably seen some of our auction videos and seen some of the detail that we go into. As I said, I don't think you win the competition at the auction, but it can make a really big difference. Once you've got that squad together, you've still got to get the togetherness going. You've still got to get them to deliver on their roles and create an environment where they can really go and showcase their strengths. Obviously, a lot of that goes down to the changing room environment that Rajat and Andy have built and created. Flower also threw light on RCB's coaching and scouting infrastructure - specifically on their Indian coaches - Dinesh Karthik (batting coach and mentor), Omkar Salvi (bowling coach), and Malolan Rangarajan (the spin bowling coach and talent identification head, apart from being WPL head coach), whose contributions he described as indispensable to the title success. Well, a couple of things there. Firstly, Mo has set up a scouting system here at RCB that is still in its growth, in its initial phases of growth really. We had the scouts with us at the game last night. They were watching with their families. They came to the after party here at the hotel and it was great to see them all there and that is an important part of what we do in preparation. It is really important to get the best people in the room and we have got a really nice group of scouts. When I say nice, they are guys we trust their cricket opinions. We trust that they are doing their due diligence and they are good guys to have in the system. So Malolan has been with RCB for a number of years and has also been instrumental in setting up that scouting system with Mo. So we trust that and we are going to build on that. The Indian coaches that we have got on our books have been absolutely crucial to the success that we have had so far. Omkar Salvi is one of the nicest men I have ever met and he has been great for us for a couple of seasons. He is an experienced head coach, a very good observer and gives me his very clear opinions when I ask for them. I think he is a bowling coach that the bowlers like working with and trust. So those are all amazing qualities for us to have amongst our coaching staff. Malolan plays a more general role. He does specifically coach the spinners and I know that KP and Suyash trust him completely. But he also plays a wider role not only on the scouting but certainly in our auction prep. Also he is a smart guy and he knows the game. He has also head coached before and having his brain for us to access is really important to our decision making processes. DK is a different kettle of fish altogether - full of energy, ideas and he is a great energy to have around. I think he is a bowling coach that the bowlers like working with and trust. So those are all amazing qualities for us to have amongst our coaching staff. Malolan plays a more general role. He does specifically coach the spinners and I know that KP and Suyash trust him completely. But he also plays a wider role not only on the scouting but certainly in our auction prep. Also Read: Live Cricket Score His energy for the batting group has been unquenchable and I have enjoyed watching him work with our batting group. I know that he has earned the trust of even guys like Virat. So he has done an amazing job for us and to have those three Indian coaches on our books, I think we are very fortunate in that regard and without their influence, I am sure we would not be sitting quite in the same position that we are this morning, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: With the three-match T20I series deadlocked at 1-1, Tuesday's blockbuster finale at the County Ground in Taunton is much more than a standard bilateral decider. For both India and England, this clash serves as the ultimate dress rehearsal and a vital psychological shot in the arm just weeks before the Womens T20 World Cup kicks off later this month. While India took first blood with an authoritative 38-run win in Chelmsford, Englands resilient 26-run fightback in Bristol exposed the vulnerabilities of both camps. As the teams head to Taunton, tactical refinement and middle-order execution will decide who lifts the silverware. India's top order has shown immense promise. Yastika Bhatia has been the standout batter of the tour with a classy half-century and a fluent 33 in Bristol. Combined with Jemimah Rodrigues' early-series form and flashes of brilliance from Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma, the platform is consistently being laid. However, the final five overs have turned into an unmitigated disaster area. In the opening match, India crawled to the finish line, scoring just 40 runs between overs 16 and 20. The second game saw an even steeper collapse; cruising at 70/1 in pursuit of 169, India lost their bearings in the death overs, imploding to 28/5 in the final stretch. India desperately needs their dependable finish-tank to step up. All eyes will be on Richa Ghosh, who has yet to fire in English conditions. Given India's lack of alternative designated six-hitters, the onus falls heavily on skipper Harmanpreet Kaur to bat deep and anchor the back end. If India is to regularly post or chase winning totals in the 190200 range, Harmanpreet and Deepti Sharma must successfully navigate the middle-order speedbumps. Englands primary concern heading into Tuesday is the distinct lack of conversion at the top of the order. While the veteran opening pair and the top four have regularly found their timing, they have repeatedly failed to construct the long, match-defining innings required on modern T20 tracks. Across both encounters, England's seasoned batters have looked fluid, gotten their eye in, but thrown away promising starts precisely when they needed to shift into fifth gear. Aside from Amy Jones vital, stabilising 67, the established core has lacked a sustained anchor. This inability to build deep partnerships has repeatedly broken Englands mid-innings momentum, forcing the lower-middle order into high-pressure recovery missions rather than allowing them to exploit a platform. The silver lining for England has been the explosive injection of youth, epitomised by the sensational Freya Kemp. Her blistering 13-ball 39* in the second game single-handedly masked the top-order stagnation and propelled England to a winning total. Combined with Lauren Bells lethal opening spells, England's younger crop is currently carrying the team's tactical X-factor. However, relying on a teenage phenom to bail out a world-class batting lineup from the number 6 or 7 spot is an unsustainable strategy with a World Cup on the horizon. Heading into Taunton, a venue famed for true bounce and tiny boundaries, the England camp will be drilling into their senior core the necessity of anchoring the innings, ensuring that Kemps destructive power is utilised to maximise a massive total rather than merely saving face. When: Tuesday, June 2, 11:00 PM Where: County Ground, Taunton Where to Watch: The third T20I between England and India will be live-streamed on the SonyLIV app and will be broadcast on the Sony Sports Network. Squads: Where to Watch: The third T20I between England and India will be live-streamed on the SonyLIV app and will be broadcast on the Sony Sports Network. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England: Em Arlott, Tammy Beaumont, Lauren Bell, Alice Capsey, Charlie Dean (c), Sophia Dunkley, Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Filer, Amy Jones (wk), Nat Sciver-Brunt, Paige Scholfield, Linsey Smith, Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Issy Wong. Article Source: IANS
Differences Between 2025 And 2026 Campaigns Is Deeper Confidence Within RCB Set-up, Says Flower
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Andy Flower said the biggest difference between the 2025 and 2026 title winning campaigns was the deeper level of confidence within the squad this year, while acknowledging the lessons of 2024 season also immensely shaped their pursuits of being a trophy winning team. Having won their first IPL title in 2025 and break an 18-year drought in process, RCB joined the likes of Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians as the third team in the IPL to win the tournament successively. If the 2025 win had tons of emotions around, the 2026 triumph was the sign of a confident unit completing the job of defending the title in clinical fashion. There are definite differences between 2025 and 2026 campaigns. But I would also mention the 2024 season, because that was instrumental in setting our determination to do things a little bit differently. The very tough first half of 2024 gave us real clarity about certain strategic things that we wanted to employ, and it gave us the courage through almost through desperation to take those measures. Then we've had 2025 where we were walking into the unknown a little. As RCB had never won the title before, so there was a lot of tension and uncertainty around getting into playoffs and then obviously lifting the trophy. This year has felt a little bit different. I think there's a deeper level of confidence in our squad. Our squad contains a number of very experienced and very successful cricketers, and having the likes of Virat and Bhuvi and Hazelwood and KP in that squad makes it a lot easier for us, the coaching and management team. So that deeper level of confidence after lifting last year's trophy certainly made this year feel slightly different. Didn't make it any easier, but certainly going into playoffs, there was a deeper level of confidence, I think, in the squad, which you may have seen in some of the performances. So they felt very different, but both very satisfying from a professional point and personal point of view, Flower said in a virtual press conference on Monday. Asked on how hes been influential in keeping the RCB culture going for three seasons, including spending more time with the players who didnt get much game time in the high-pressure tournament, Flower explained, There are always challenges and a long list of them you've got a big squad of players to look after. You've got obviously a variety of different people to gather together and get them heading in one direction. You've got young and old, experienced and inexperienced, different nationalities. So, from a professional point of view, it's a really fascinating challenge to get a group of such different characters together and make them cohesive around the task of taking on these other excellent franchises. So, Mo (Bobat, RCB Director of Cricket) and I both really like those challenges. The cultural part around the players that didn't play or didn't play much is a really important part of I'm reticent to say only the success of a cricket squad or a franchise, but more about the feeling that is generated within that group. It's really important to look after people and I've learned those lessons over the years, particularly as a young head coach, how important that is. Those players that aren't playing all the time, they still need to feel valued and also feel as if they're progressing themselves. I think one of the biggest drivers in the human condition is to feel as if you're making progress in the world. We want everyone that's sitting out and not getting the opportunity to showcase what they can do in match situations. We want them also to feel as if they are developing themselves. So, we put as much energy as possible into looking after those players as well. It's not easy because you do have to prioritize those 12 players that are taking the field every few days. But it was lovely to see some young players like Vihaan Malhotra and Kanishk Chouhan come from India under19s. I watched them during the Under19 World Cup where I was commentating. It was lovely to see them go about their business, work at improving themselves. They were listening and watching people like Virat go about their business and you can learn lessons in that sort of environment if you're open to progress and they were, he said. Flower also gave the example of India batting all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer of a player who didnt get game time initially, but made his chances count whenever the combination changed. With a finger injury keeping Phil Salt out, Iyer seamlessly fitted into opening the batting alongside Virat Kohli and hit 209 runs in seven games, including giving a fast start in the final. But the best example, I think, of people sitting out and making sure that they were ready to contribute to the overall cause was Venkatesh Iyer. He sat out after all his experiences, winning IPLs and playing for India. He had to sit out and be really patient and make sure that he was ready to contribute when he got the chance. He never knew when or if that chance was going to come. When it did come, each time he made contributions. It was such a wonderful example of a mature young man being humble enough to take the bad news on the chin that he wasn't going to get initial opportunities, but to make sure that he was competitive and ready when he got the chance and that's what he did. He was a big contributing factor to us closing out this tournament. So you rightly focus on a really important part of the franchise cricket world, that sort of environment that we operate in for 10 or 11 weeks of the year and we work hard at trying to get that as right as you can. You can't be perfect, but you do your best to get it as right as you can, he added. Flower further said the confidence gained from last years breakthrough title was visible in the squads composure this season. Well, I'm glad that it's observable. Sometimes when you're actually in the dressing room or in the dugout or in the training area, you're getting a very closeup view of stuff. But it's nice to see, it's nice to hear that even from an external viewpoint, you're seeing that level of confidence. I alluded to it a little earlier - there was a little more jeopardy and uncertainty around last year's title chase and after winning the trophy last year, and then after playing some outstanding cricket through the group phase this year, our confidence levels have increased. It's also fair to say that you didn't observe many nerves. There would have been a lot of nervous people in our dressing room, in our dugout. I was certainly one of them, but that deeper level of confidence that comes from testing yourselves against good opposition or in challenging circumstances, and proving to yourself or proving to yourselves as a group that you are not only able to handle whatever's thrown at you. But you're able to thrive in that highpressure environment and that produces real confidence. You saw and you would have observed some of that. The other thing about our group feeling confident is we've got some characters in our dressing room that inspire that level of calmness and confidence. We've spoken at length about Virat already today, but bowlers like Hazelwood, Bhuvi and KP, those guys are calm under pressure. The pressure in the IPL is similar to the pressure that you would experience in the playoff stages of World Cups or in Big Ashes matches. Having people there that have been there and done it before, come through in adversity before, those are deeper, stronger levels of confidence than you might have in other individuals that hadn't had those experiences before. But you're able to thrive in that highpressure environment and that produces real confidence. You saw and you would have observed some of that. The other thing about our group feeling confident is we've got some characters in our dressing room that inspire that level of calmness and confidence. We've spoken at length about Virat already today, but bowlers like Hazelwood, Bhuvi and KP, those guys are calm under pressure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hazelwood's the same, and we've seen what KP's done. KP's level of confidence, you could easily just attribute it to, he's had five IPL wins in 11 seasons. How amazing is that for different teams? So I think that's what you're observing, and we'd like to build on that for the next season as well, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Monday made a major change to the schedule of the inaugural ICC Women's Champions Trophy 2027. The tournament will now take place from February 14 to 28, 2027, instead of June-July. This decision is part of several measures to strengthen women's cricket worldwide. The Board also approved a new Women's Emerging Nations Trophy and set the qualification pathway for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2028. The Women's Champions Trophy will debut in February, providing a new window in the international calendar. This change is expected to help with scheduling and ensure better conditions for the tournament. In another important development, the ICC confirmed it will launch the Women's Emerging Nations Trophy 2026, featuring ten teams to give greater international exposure to developing nations. The tournament will have five Full Member countries and five Associate Member teams, chosen based on rankings and past T20 World Cup qualifications. This initiative aims to widen competition in women's cricket and support emerging nations. ICC Chairman, Mr Jay Shah, said, Our discussions in Ahmedabad have reinforced the ICCs commitment to governance, administration, and the growth of cricket globally. From womens cricket and emerging nations to the management of franchise competitions, todays discussions and decisions aim to ensure that cricket remains fair, competitive, and exciting for fans worldwide. In another important development, the ICC confirmed it will launch the Women's Emerging Nations Trophy 2026, featuring ten teams to give greater international exposure to developing nations. The tournament will have five Full Member countries and five Associate Member teams, chosen based on rankings and past T20 World Cup qualifications. This initiative aims to widen competition in women's cricket and support emerging nations. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 2028 edition will include 12 teams. Ten teams will qualify automatically, including the top eight from the 2026 Women's T20 World Cup, the host nation if it is not already qualified, and the next highest-ranked teams in the ICC Women's T20I rankings as of July 6, 2026. The last two spots will be filled through a 10-team Global Qualifier, supported by regional qualifying tournaments. Plans for regional qualification spots are expected to be finalized in the ICC's July meetings. Article Source: IANS
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Sweeps IPL Awards -- But Is Too Young To Drive Prize
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi swept the end-of-season IPL awards and in doing so won an SUV -- but the 15-year-old cricket prodigy will have to wait three years to drive it.The Indian batting sensation plundered 776 runs at an average of 48.50 and a punishing strike-rate of 237.30 in 16 matches. On Sunday he was named most valuable player, despite his team Rajasthan Royals narrowly failing to reach the final, and he also scooped the Orange Cap for leading the batting charts. He was also named emerging player of the season, among other prizes. The boy wonder was gifted a car, a TATA Sierra SUV, which at top price comes in at 2.1 million rupees ($22,000). His total prize money was over $57,000. However, he won't be able to get behind the wheel in the near future because the minimum driving age in India is 18. It feels good, but I'm feeling a little pressure because I'm here for an interview, Sooryavanshi said on winning the awards. But yes, it's a proud moment, it feels great, and I'll try to do even better next season. Virat Kohli led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second straight title after they beat Gujarat Titans in the final in Ahmedabad. Player of the match Kohli was seen speaking to Sooryavanshi during the presentation ceremony well past midnight. Sooryavanshi struck 97 and 96 in his final two innings of this edition of the IPL, adding to the growing clamour for him to earn a maiden call-up to the senior national team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score According to Indian media, Sooryavanshi has been included in a 30-member of probables for the Asian Games in September-October in Japan.
Virat Kohli Dubbed 'Heartbeat' Of IPL Champions In Coach Flower Tribute
Virat Kohli was hailed as the heartbeat of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru dressing room after his unbeaten 75 secured a second straight IPL championship. The 37-year-old Kohli was there at the end as Bengaluru chased 156 to beat Gujarat Titans by five wickets in Sunday's final in Ahmedabad. Dubbed the chase master, Kohli finished with a six and a total of 675 runs in the T20 tournament. Virat, I know you get a lot of attention and quite rightly, head coach Andy Flower said in a Royal Challengers Bengaluru video tribute released Monday. But I don't want to downplay that, because you are a heartbeat in this dressing room. Kohli got the team off to a flying start in a 62-run opening stand with Venkatesh Iyer and later anchored the chase. He hammered Gujarat pace bowler Kagiso Rabada for two fours and a six to set the tone for his team's domination at the 130,000-capacity Narendra Modi Stadium, which was packed with Kohli fans. He relishes these situations, he looks forward to these situations where he can show how good a player he is, former India captain Sunil Gavaskar told Sports Today. What kind of a temperament he has, the winning mindset that he has. IPL chairman Arun Dhumal said: Virat doesn't need any trophies. He is a trophy himself. Bengaluru and Kohli have been on a roll in the T20 tournament since winning their first IPL crown at the 18th attempt last year. Bengaluru finished top of the 10-team table after the league stage and hammered Gujarat in the first play-off for a direct entry into the final. A majority of the 90,000 crowd seemed to be wearing Kohli's number 18 shirt, with chants of Kohli, Kohli filling the air. I always say we don't have seven home games, we probably have 14, Kohli said after being named player of the match. Everywhere we go, we have fans cheering the team and really getting behind us. I mean, GT are probably the home side, but you see 90 percent of the guys are RCB fans. Their support is priceless. The team will not stage any public homecoming with the trophy on Monday. A victory parade for their inaugural title win a year ago resulted in a stampede and crush outside Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium that killed 11 people. Obviously, you feel bad -- you lost your fans after winning the game, Bengaluru captain Rajat Patidar said after this year's win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Not just fans, they are the family members. I always want to dedicate this trophy to them. I don't have words to express that feeling.
IPL 2026: Were Very Lucky To Have Kohli In The RCB Dressing Room, Says Andy Flower
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru head coach Andy Flower said the franchise is very lucky to have veteran batter Virat Kohli in the dressing room, hailing the former skippers hunger and drive as genuinely inspiring after RCB defended their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 crown with a fivewicket win over Gujarat Titans in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Kohli smashed a majestic 42-ball 75 not out, laced with nine fours and three sixes, as RCB completed a chase of 156 to retain the title they won at the same venue in 2025. Kohli also reached his fifty in 25 balls the fastest hes reached the half-century mark in his history of playing the IPL. You asked about Virats hunger and how that affects him. When I was in the dressing room last night after the game, I mentioned it actually. His hunger and drive its genuinely inspiring. Even for older blokes like me, seeing someone as hungry and driven, as disciplined and as ambitious as he still is, its wonderful to witness. And were very lucky to have him in the dressing room. He sets certain standards, like standards of intensity in the field, for instance, that means that anyone falling below those is going to stand out like a sore thumb. So we dont need coaches driving intensity on standards in the field, for instance, because hes living it and doing it. And everyone else has to raise their games to get anywhere near it, Flower said in a virtual press conference on Monday. The former Zimbabwe captain, who coached England to the 2010 Mens T20 World Cup title win, added, He works hard at his game, but you can see that he loves it as well. He loves batting. He loves hitting a ball. He loves the feeling of the ball meeting the middle of the bat. I would imagine the craft and mastery that he feels when hes got a bat in his hands. Again, those standards are easy for people in our training sessions to see, and certainly it just helps everyone head in the right direction. RCB skipper Rajat Patidar also acknowledged Kohlis influence on his own leadership journey after being appointed the sides captain ahead of winning their first title in the 2025 season. Regarding Virat bhai, as I said in many press conferences and interviews, his presence makes a lot of difference. For me, it's great learning. Whenever Im around him on the field and off the field, I always notice him. I dont speak much, but I always notice him. But whenever I have some kind of doubts regarding the leadership role or taking any decision, I always go to Virat bhai. For me, its a great opportunity to learn from the best and the greats of cricket. So, their ideas, inputs, and experience are definitely helping me a lot to grow in my new leadership role, he said. Under Patidars captaincy, RCB have now won backtoback IPL titles and have shed their longstanding reputation as perennial underachievers. The Indore-based batter himself had a standout campaign, scoring 501 runs at a strike rate of 192.69, including a matchwinning 93 not out in Qualifier 1. It's not like I had to go in and target the bowlers from ball number one. No one in the team was doing that. It's important to back your instincts. We did a lot of hard work before the tournament with DK (Dinesh Karthik, batting coach-cum-mentor), Flower, and Mo Bobat (Director of Cricket) were also there. There was more clarity about my role. I was pretty clear that if I'm batting in the middle overs, I can maximise and I can take a risk. I like taking risks, so if I am playing in the middle overs phase, I like to maximise every bowler. If I feel I have to go after the attack on my second delivery, I back myself and go with full clarity, he added. Patidar also drew praise from Punjab Kings skipper Shreyas Iyer, who labelled him the most stylish performer of the season. Responding to the compliment, Patidar said, I have spent a lot of time with Shreyas. In my first season in Ranji, we played Mumbai, and at that time, he scored a lot of runs. There was more clarity about my role. I was pretty clear that if I'm batting in the middle overs, I can maximise and I can take a risk. I like taking risks, so if I am playing in the middle overs phase, I like to maximise every bowler. If I feel I have to go after the attack on my second delivery, I back myself and go with full clarity, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Patidar also mentioned Rajasthan Royals 15yearold opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who won the Orange Cap with 776 runs, as the standout performer of the season. Its pretty clear, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Hes so young, and the way hes dominated this tournament. He just didnt play; he dominated every top bowler. So the way he played his shots, hes amazing. Whenever I saw him on TV, it was just superb. I wish him luck. Article Source: IANS
ICC To Trial Pink Balls To Counter Bad Light Stoppages
Cricket's governing body said Monday it would trial the use of pink-coloured balls in Test matches to maximise play during bad light. The red balls usually used in Tests are not easily visible in fading light, while white balls used in limited-overs matches have been found to be not durable enough for the longer format. Pink balls are already used in day-night Tests played under lights. The International Cricket Council (ICC) said in a statement its executive board had approved the trialling the use of a pink ball in Test matches, with prior agreement from both teams, to maximise play in case of anticipated bad light. The global cricketing body said it had also given approval for new research on lighting technology for match officials and venues to reduce lost play due to poor light. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Our discussions... have reinforced the ICC's commitment to governance, administration and the growth of cricket globally, said council chief Jay Shah, following a meeting in India's Ahmedabad.
PAK vs AUS 2nd ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
PAK vs AUS 2nd ODI , Cricket Tips :Pakistan carried on spin-dominant plans in the first ODI against Australia and recorded a comprehensive win by five wickets. Debutant Arafat Minhas was the star. He picked up a five-wicket haul on his debut and scored an unbeaten 18 off 17 balls, with a winning six. With a 1-0 lead, Pakistan will face Australia in the second ODI on Tuesday. This game will begin at 5 PM IST at Gaddafi Stadium in Ahmedabad. Pakistan will be keen to win the series. Australia have to find a strong plan to bat in slow conditions. If not, they will lose consecutive series against Pakistan. PAK vs AUS: Match Details Date : June 02, 2026 (Tuesday) Time : 5:00 PM IST Venue : Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore PAK vs AUS: Live Streaming Details The only option to watch the live action of the PAK vs AUS 2nd ODI is through the FanCode streaming platform. PAK vs AUS: Head-to-Head in ODI Total Matches : 113 Pakistan : 37 Australia : 71 No-result : 04 Tied : 01 PAK vs AUS: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Lahore is expected to be slow and spin-friendly. Just like the first game, we might see a slow track for the second match. The batters will struggle for timing because of the uneven bounce here. Hence, batting second can be a wise decision. PAK vs AUS: Possible XIs Pakistan : Maaz Sadaqat, Sahibzada Farhan, Babar Azam, Ghazi Ghori (wk), Salman Ali Agha, Arafat Minhas, Abdul Samad, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Shah Afridi (c), Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed Australia : Matt Short, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis (c & wk), Marnus Labuschagne, Cam Green, Oliver Peake, Matt Renshaw, Nathan Ellis, Tanveer Sangha, Billy Stanlake, Matthew Kuhnemann PAK vs AUS: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Babar Azam is in excellent form and will be a key batter for Pakistan. For Australia, Matt Short adjusted well in the first game and will have a big role in this game. Probable Best Bowler Abrar Ahmed is still the most dangerous bowler, and he can turn the ball on any surface. For Australia, Matthew Kuhnemann will be a tough bowler to face for the opposition. Today Match Prediction : Pakistan have experience and a good combination for this wicket. Hence, we predict them to win the second ODI. PAK vs AUS Match 2nd ODI, Today Match PAK vs AUS, PAK vs AUS Prediction, PAK vs AUS Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Pakistan vs Australia Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
ICC approves red-to-pink ball change to reduce bad-light impact in Test cricket
Both teams will have to agree to changing the ball from red to pink in case of bad light during a Test match
Womens T20 WC: We Believe We Can Win Any Game We Go Into, Says Bangladesh Skipper Nigar Sultana
T20 World Cup: Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty is embracing the challenge of competing in one of the toughest groups at the ICC Womens T20 World Cup, insisting her side has the belief and confidence to produce its best-ever performance at the global event. Bangladesh, appearing in their seventh Women's T20 World Cup, have never progressed beyond the group stage. This year, they have been drawn alongside powerhouses India, Australia, South Africa, and Pakistan, making their route to the knockout rounds particularly demanding. Nigar is fully aware of the task that awaits her team, yet the Bangladesh skipper believes her side has developed the mindset needed to challenge more established opponents. We have been drawn into a really tough group, with teams that have regularly made finals and semi-finals. But we believe that we can win any game we go into, and we are hoping to have our best-ever tournament, she wrote in her column for ICC. Although Bangladesh's recent results haven't always been favourable, Nigarhighlighted some promising individual performances that have increased confidence heading into the World Cup. Shorna Akter and Sharmin Akhter batted well in the most recent series against Sri Lanka, while Sultana Khatun produced career-best figures in the final match, which we lost narrowly, Nigar said. Bangladesh is currently taking part in a tri-series in Scotland with the hosts and the Netherlands. These matches provide important preparation for the upcoming tournament in England. Nigarbelieves the games are helping the team adjust to new conditions. We are now into a tri-series against Scotland and the Netherlands in Edinburgh, which will also help us adjust to the conditions, she said. The adjustment period could prove crucial, given that Bangladesh have never played in England before. This World Cup will be the first time we have ever played in England, so it will take some time to get used to things, but we are excited to see what we can do, she added. One of Bangladesh's key fixtures will come against World Cup debutants, the Netherlands. Nigar feels her side can draw confidence from previous encounters between the two teams. Well also face the Netherlands, who are making their debut, and we can take confidence from beating them in the (ICC Women's T20 World Cup) Qualifier. It was really important for us to win every game of that tournament, just as much as earning our place in the World Cup, Nigar noted. Beyond results, the captain is particularly encouraged by the development of the next generation of players within the squad, as she said, What pleases me the most is seeing the growth in our younger players and how they have become confident, and the team spirit we are building. Nigar pointed to Bangladesh's breakthrough victory over Scotland at the 2024 Women's T20 World Cup as evidence of the team's progress, saying, The growth in the team was really clear in 2024 when we got our first win at a T20 World Cup for 10 years. Beating Scotland was such an important moment in our teams history, and we are ready to build on that as we prepare for this years campaign. Beyond results, the captain is particularly encouraged by the development of the next generation of players within the squad, as she said, What pleases me the most is seeing the growth in our younger players and how they have become confident, and the team spirit we are building. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It is my sixth World Cup, and I still have happy memories of playing my first tournament back in 2016 at just 18 years old. I did not think then that I would be captaining the side for the third time at a T20 World Cup, she mentioned. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: RCB To Not Come To Bengaluru As Bobat, Patidar Hail Use Of Data And Analytics In Title Win
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengalurus players and support staff will disperse to their respective homes and holiday time from Ahmedabad rather than return to Bengaluru immediately to celebrate their second successive Indian Premier League (IPL) crown. Well, firstly, I don't think any of us are going to Bangalore, unfortunately. I'm traveling back to the UK tomorrow. Rajat, I'm sure, will be heading home to his family and I think Andy's got a holiday planned. So we'll have to wait a little bit longer before we can get back amongst our fans and to enjoy some of their excitement and happiness, which is always nice to experience, Mo Bobat, RCBs Director of Cricket, told IANS in a virtual press conference on Monday. With the afterglow of the championship win still high, Bobat and skipper Rajat Patidar stated that the franchises balanced approach to data and analytics, especially roping in Freddie Wilde as their lead analyst, has been a key factor in them transforming as a title-winning unit since 2025. For the longest time, RCB were the IPLs biggest underachievers a star-studded unit who would always fall short of winning the trophy when it mattered the most. But since 2025, that narrative has undergone a dramatic shift by becoming only the third IPL side to win back-to-back IPL titles. The turnaround has not come not from one marquee signing or a dramatic tactical overhaul. Instead, it has been shaped by a measured, data and evidencebased approach for constructing the squad and preparing for matches. Under Bobat, Wilde, head coach Andy Flower and batting coach-cum-mentor Dinesh Karthik, data and analytics have now become central to how RCB operate and compete as a unit, which in turn has helped them shed the nearly men tag associated with them. In terms of the sort of data related questions, both Andy and I are very similar in our views in that we don't overly focus on data. Data is obviously quite a hot topic in elite sport at the minute. We don't focus too much on that. But what I do think we share in common is a desire to have evidencebased decision making and therefore, by definition, if you want evidence to support your decisions or to inform your decisions, then you're going to pay attention to the data that's available to you. So we really value and we recognize the importance of our judgment as decision makers. We make important decisions about players' careers, about their dreams, about their livelihoods. So, we both think it's our responsibility to do that with an element of rigour. If you're going to do that, then you will pay attention to evidence, information, data, expert opinion, whatever you want to call it. Philosophically, we both believe in that information being a combination of the more objective kind of numbers that can tell you a story, but also what some of our expert eyes and ears see and hear and what they can tell us as well, because it's all information that helps us make those evidencebased decisions. So very balanced view in our sort of in our ways of working and I'd like to think that Rajats experiences that as captain and that we will share insights with him that might be data informed, as well as some of our own gut feel and intuition. A part of the reason why we engaged DK in the role that we engaged him in is that he has a very active tactical mind and we can learn from his many experiences as a person as well, elaborated Bobat. Wilde is the lead analyst of current ILT20 holders Desert Vipers and The Hundred franchise London Spirit, after being with the England mens team. He also came into limelight after authoring a chapter in the Cricket 2.0: Inside the T20 Revolution book titled Why CSK win and why RCB lose. Cut to now, and Wilde has played a key role in turning around RCBs fortunes. So a real mix there and you referenced Freddie and it's important to recognize the quality of his work. We've worked with Freddie for a few years now. He's an outstanding analyst and the things that stand him out, I think, would be he is able to kind of manoeuvre between thinking like an analyst and also thinking and operating a bit like a coach and that's quite nice territory. As someone who can do that, that also means we can trust him in his communication with players and groups in a way that you might not always give sort of analyst responsibilities. He's also quite practically minded. He realizes that the numbers won't always tell the full story. So he appreciates that there is subjectivity and context that binds a lot of the analytics that we'll do. But in short, his contributions have been huge, particularly if you think about things like the importance of building a squad and auction planning, which we invest a lot of preparation and time into. Then we have quite a rigorous planning and review process as we go through the season and Freddie leads a lot of that work alongside Andy. So, obviously, I can't speak much more glowingly about Freddie's work. He's been excellent and a real value add for the franchise, helps players, support staff, coaches on a number of levels. But the headline would be that we're kind of we're very balanced in our view the human and the machine are probably both key parts of our process, explained Bobat. Flower, who added another IPL title to his growing cabinet of winning franchise T20 league trophies as the head coach, gave a little hint about how being data reliant sparked Patidars turnaround in being a ferocious pace hitter in this season. I'm not going to answer anything, but I really want to hear Rajat's answer about the use of data. As per statistics from Cricket-21, Patidar has emerged as one of the most destructive batters against pace in IPL 2026, with his numbers showing a remarkable jump from last season. In 2025, Patidar managed 190 runs in 13 innings against pacers at an average of 23.8 and a strike rate of 143, hitting just six sixes and recording a boundary percentage of 58.9, while his boundary per ball (BPB) ratio stood at 5.3. But in 2026, the turnaround has been emphatic this year. Across the same number of innings, Patidar has piled up 377 runs against pacers at an average of 62.8 and a strike rate of 189. He has cleared the ropes 28 times, with his BPB improving to 3.6 and boundary percentage soaring to 73.2. Patidar credited Wildes expertise for helping him sharpen his batting against pacers, apart from retaining his strengths of bashing spinners. To be honest, it was beautifully explained by Mo regarding Freddie and I can say from my personal experience as well. Four or five times in the IPL, I called Freddie and he said, Freddie, I need some videos of the bowlers, especially spinners who are like Rashid Khan, Sunil Narine and Varun Chakaravarthy, where you have to pick their balls from the hand. But in 2026, the turnaround has been emphatic this year. Across the same number of innings, Patidar has piled up 377 runs against pacers at an average of 62.8 and a strike rate of 189. He has cleared the ropes 28 times, with his BPB improving to 3.6 and boundary percentage soaring to 73.2. Patidar credited Wildes expertise for helping him sharpen his batting against pacers, apart from retaining his strengths of bashing spinners. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So I think Freddie helped me a lot in this and that's why I give credit to Freddie. So people always used to say to me that Rajat is a spin basher. But to be honest, I always like to play fast bowling. But if I talk about spin and picking up the bowlers from their hands, the credit goes to Freddie because he helped me a lot, concluded Patidar. Article Source: IANS
The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council has approved trialling the use of a pink ball in all Test matches so that play may not be affected by bad light, and it can continue under lights while also researching lighting technology for match officials and venues to reduce lost play due to poor light. The meeting also approved match officials to use Hawk-Eye data while deciding on illegal bowling actions. In the ICC Board meetings held in Ahmedabad on Sunday, the ICC also decided to allow the head-coach or a designated representative to consult the teams during scheduled drinks intervals, mandate 15-minute intervals in T20I matches, and require batters to be ready at the resumption of play. In a statement released on Monday, the ICC said the decisions are aimed at enhancing global competition structures and fostering innovation in the game. The ICC Board has approved several recommendations from the Chief Executives Committee, including trialling the use of a pink ball in Test Matches, with prior agreement from both teams, to maximise play in case of anticipated bad light. The recommendation to undertake research on lighting technology for match officials and venues to reduce lost play due to poor light, with ICC co-funding R&D projects alongside Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). It has also accepted the Chief Executives Committee's suggestion for enabling match officials to access Hawk-Eye data when considering reporting an illegal bowling action. The ICC Board also approved updates to the Playing Conditions to allow head coaches or their designees to consult with teams during scheduled drinks intervals. It has also made it mandatory to have 15-minute intervals in T20I matches and requires batters to be ready at the resumption of play. The recommendation to undertake research on lighting technology for match officials and venues to reduce lost play due to poor light, with ICC co-funding R&D projects alongside Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). It has also accepted the Chief Executives Committee's suggestion for enabling match officials to access Hawk-Eye data when considering reporting an illegal bowling action. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Updates to the Classification of Official Cricket, confirming that teams in the CWC Challenge League remain eligible to play other List A limited overs matches during each Challenge League tournament cycle, were also approved. Article Source: IANS
ENG-W vs IND-W 3rd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
ENG-W vs IND-W 3rd T20I , Cricket Tips :India Women won the first T20I, and England Women won the second. The series is leveled at 1-1, and the final game will decide which way the series is heading. The third and final T20I is scheduled to be played on Tuesday at the Cooper Associates County Ground in Taunton. Freya Kemp produced a brilliant all-round display. She took 2/15 and scored an unbeaten 39 off 13 balls. For India, there were starts, but none of the batters played a long innings. It was disappointing, because India were looking good to chase it down. But they lost their last seven wickets for just 33 runs. Can India Women bounce back after a disappointing defeat? ENG-W vs IND-W: Match Details Date : June 02, 2026 (Tuesday) Time : 11:00 PM IST Venue : The Cooper Associates County Ground, Taunton ENG-W vs IND-W: Live Streaming Details The live action of the third T20I will be available on the Sony Sports networks. Fans can also watch the live stream through the Sony LIV app or website. ENG-W vs IND-W: Head-to-Head in T20I Total Matches : 37 England Women : 25 India Women : 12 Drawn: 00 ENG-W vs IND-W: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Taunton is likely to be in favor of the fast bowling. There might be grass, which will produce swing and movement early on. The batting conditions are expected to get better with the time. Both teams will look to bat first, because chasing can be tough here. ENG-W vs IND-W: Possible XIs England Women : Sophia Dunkley, Danny Wyatt, Alice Capsey, Heather Knight, Amy Jones (wk), Freya Kemp, Linsey Smith, Danielle Gibson, Charlotte Dean (c), Sophie Ecclestone, Lauren Bell India Women : Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Yastika Bhatia, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Shreyanka Patil, Arundhati Reddy, Nandni Sharma, Shree Charani ENG-W vs IND-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Smriti Mandhana got a good start but couldn't play a long innings. But she has shown good form and will be key. For England, Amy Jones is still the premier batter, who is in good form. Probable Best Bowler Shree Charani has been superb and has the most wickets in this series for India. For England, Lauren Bell is the game-changer at the top. Today Match Prediction : India Women have struggled in death overs. If they bat second, it will be tough for them. England Women are coming off a win, and we predict them to win the final game also. ENG-W vs IND-W Match 3rd T20I, Today Match ENG-W vs IND-W, ENG-W vs IND-W Prediction, SA-W vs IND-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for ENG-W vs IND-W Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Indian badminton star PV Sindhu joined the celebrations following Royal Challengers Bengaluru's successful IPL title defence, sharing a heartfelt and humorous message that paid tribute to the franchise's long-awaited rise and its passionate fanbase. Sindhu, who has been based in Bengaluru in recent years, began her Instagram post with a light-hearted observation linking her move to the city with RCB's recent success. RCB fans, I am not saying I am the lucky charm. But I moved to Bangalore and suddenly you have won the trophy every year since. Do the maths. Huge congratulations to the incredible RCB team, the players, the staff, the ownership and the fans, Sindhu wrote in an Instagram post. The two-time Olympic medallist acknowledged the emotional journey that supporters have endured over the years before finally witnessing sustained success and also reserved special praise for entrepreneur Ananya Birla and her family, who became part of the franchise's ownership group before RCB's recent run of success. This franchise has carried so much emotion, madness, heartbreak, belief and love over the years, and to see it become back-to-back champions is truly special. A big congratulations to my dear friend @ananyabirla and her wonderful family as well. To become owners and immediately win a championship is some serious main character energy. What a start, she added. The badminton star admitted there was one scenario she would have loved to witness in this year's tournament, a final between her hometown franchise Sunrisers Hyderabad and RCB. This franchise has carried so much emotion, madness, heartbreak, belief and love over the years, and to see it become back-to-back champions is truly special. A big congratulations to my dear friend @ananyabirla and her wonderful family as well. To become owners and immediately win a championship is some serious main character energy. What a start, she added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On the badminton front, Sindhu's campaign at the recent Singapore Open ended in the quarter-finals, where she lost to world No. 1 An Se-young. The Indian shuttler had looked in strong touch earlier in the tournament, recording straight-games victories over Putri Kusuma Wardani and Riko Gunji before running into the top-seeded South Korean. Article Source: IANS
Home Minister Amit Shah: Home Minister Amit Shah praised the Indian contingent for their rich medal haul at the Asian U20 Athletics Championships, saying the feat of winning 19 medals is he signature of India's unstoppable sporting prowess. The Indian contingent wrapped up their campaign in style by adding three gold medals to their tally on the final day and overall finished second with 19 medals, including 10 gold, five silver and four bronze medals. Bravo to the Indian contingent at the 22nd Asian U20 Athletics Championships 2026 held in Hong Kong. Your feat of winning 19 medals, including 10 golds, is the signature of India's unstoppable sporting prowess that will inspire legions of athletes across the nation, Amit Shah shared on X. Based on the total number of medals, it was not Indias best-ever return at the competition, but the benchmark remains the 2024 edition in Dubai, where India won 29 medals, including seven gold, 11 silver and 11 bronze. Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers Jagat Prakash Nadda also congratulated the Indian team for their impressive show in Hong Kong. My heartfelt congratulations to India's talented contingent for delivering an exceptional performance at the 22nd Asian U20 Athletics Championships. Securing 19 medals, including 10 gold medals, is a reflection of the determination and passion of our young athletes. Their achievements have brought immense pride to the nation and highlight the bright future of Indian athletics. May this success inspire countless youngsters to embrace sports and strive for excellence, Nadda posted on X. Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare and Minister of Chemicals and Fertilisers Jagat Prakash Nadda also congratulated the Indian team for their impressive show in Hong Kong. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Former India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan also praised the Indian athletes, saying Every medal starts with a dream and years of hard work. Congratulations to our U20 athletes on finishing with 19 medals and second place at the Asian Championships. Article Source: IANS
French Open 2026: Vallejo fined 65,000 over sexist umpire remarks
Adolfo Daniel Vallejo was fined half his French Open prize money for saying his match should not have been umpired by a woman
Women's T20 WC: 'Molineux Is A Game Changer,' Says McGrath On Captain's Successful Injury Return
T20 World Cup: Australia's narrow defeat to South Africa in an unofficial Women's T20 World Cup warm-up fixture may have denied them a winning start to their preparations, but the return of captain Sophie Molineux provided a significant positive ahead of the global showpiece, and for vice-captain Tahlia McGrath, the performance was a timely reminder of the value the skipper brings to the Australian side. Playing her first match since February after recovering from a back injury, Molineux wasted little time making an impact. The left-arm spinner struck with her very first delivery, dismissing Sune Luus, before removing Dane van Niekerk two balls later, finishing with figures of 2/17 from three overs. First of all, it's nice to have her bowling. Not bowling in (Australia's recent white-ball series in) the West Indies, it was awesome to see her with ball in hand as she takes wickets for fun, McGrath said after the game. The Australian vice-captain also highlighted the often-underappreciated work Molineux does for the team by taking on difficult overs across different stages of an innings and believes versatility makes her one of the most influential bowlers in the squad, particularly in pressure situations. She's a game changer and she can bowl in any phase. She proved that again today. I think she took a wicket with her first ball. She gets all the tough overs and doesn't really get the credit she deserves. She always puts her hand up and always seems to get the job done, she said. Despite Molineux's encouraging return, Australia fell seven runs short while chasing South Africa's 163/7. The Proteas recovered strongly after early setbacks thanks to an 88-run stand between Marizanne Kapp and youngster Kayla Reyneke, before Shabnim Ismail's fiery spell of 4/39 helped close out the contest. McGrath felt the game provided exactly the sort of competitive challenge Australia was seeking before the World Cup. It was a pretty high-quality game and it was really close. It came down to the last over and some individual brilliance from both teams. She pinpointed the Kapp-Reyneke partnership as the turning point of the match after Australia had initially gained the upper hand. I thought the partnership between Kapp and Reyneke, we were on top and that swung the momentum back to them and sort of proved to be the difference in the end. They batted really well, the all-rounder stated. While disappointed with the result, McGrath believes there were enough positives for Australia to build on before the tournament begins on June 12. I thought the partnership between Kapp and Reyneke, we were on top and that swung the momentum back to them and sort of proved to be the difference in the end. They batted really well, the all-rounder stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With two more matches against South Africa still to come at Arundel Castle, Australia will have further opportunities to fine-tune their preparations and, perhaps most importantly, continue building momentum around the return of their captain before the World Cup kicks off on June 12. Article Source: IANS
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru left-arm spin bowling allrounder Krunal Pandya said winning trophies remains his biggest motivation in playing cricket after clinching his fifth IPL crown, as the side defeated Gujarat Titans by five wickets to defend their title at the Narendra Modi Stadium. Pandya, who made 226 runs with the bat and picked 14 scalps in this season, previously tasted IPL winning success with the Mumbai Indians before joining RCB, who have become the third team to win back-to-back titles. Winning trophies has always been my biggest motivation in cricket because theres no feeling quite like lifting a championship. Individual performances and match wins bring happiness, but winning a tournament is something truly special. Throughout my career, Ive always visualised and manifested success at the team level, and Ive been fortunate enough to be part of sides that have achieved that. To win a fifth IPL trophy in eleven years is incredibly satisfying, and Im grateful for the journey and the opportunities that have come my way, said Pandya on JioHotstar. Senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who had a brilliant season by picking 28 wickets, said he was pleased with the development of younger bowlers like Rasikh Salam in the side. In the final, Rasikh stood out with his line, length and variations to pick 3-27 and be the standout bowler for RCB. As a senior player, you naturally enjoy that responsibility more when you're contributing well yourself because confidence allows you to help others more effectively. When it comes to young bowlers like Rasikh, senior players can guide and support them, but a lot of the credit has to go to the players themselves. Senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who had a brilliant season by picking 28 wickets, said he was pleased with the development of younger bowlers like Rasikh Salam in the side. In the final, Rasikh stood out with his line, length and variations to pick 3-27 and be the standout bowler for RCB. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yash Dayal did an excellent job last season, and this year Rasikh stepped up and embraced that responsibility as well. Their growth has been a huge positive for the team, he added. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Pace spearhead Shabnim Ismail marked her return to South African colours with a match-winning performance and an emotional homecoming as the Proteas women defeated Australia by seven runs in an unofficial T20 warm-up fixture ahead of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup. The veteran fast bowler, who recently reversed her international retirement in a bid to help South Africa challenge for a maiden world title, claimed 4/39 to play a decisive role in defending 163 at Arundel Castle. Her victims included Australian power-hitters Ash Gardner and Grace Harris as South Africa successfully closed out a tense contest. While the result provided an encouraging boost ahead of the tournament, Ismail revealed that her comeback began with a mixture of excitement and nerves. Well, to be honest, I was really excited in the first over. Then I bowled a no-ball or two. Then I was thinking, oh, here we go again. And it's so funny because every time in the nets, the coach is like, Shabz, no-ball. I was like, coach, don't stress about it. But now I know, Ismail said after the match. The 36-year-old said that being back alongside her teammates ultimately made the decision to return worthwhile. He told me, Shabz, you need to work. And I was like, coach, I'll do that, definitely. It was really nice getting over the rope today with the girls. I really felt happy, and I'm happy I actually made the choice to come back and play with them. I felt like a family again, and I'm happy we got the winning result today, she added. South Africa's victory was built on contributions with both bat and ball. After choosing to bat, the Proteas recovered through a crucial stand between Marizanne Kapp and young all-rounder Kayla Reyneke, whose partnership helped lift the side to a competitive total. Reflecting on that effort, the pacer underlined the value of experience and composure in the middle order. Oh, it's crucial. I mean, like with Kapi's experience, it's nice to have that. I think they worked really nice together. And obviously for them to get that partnership took us to the winning total, Ismail stated. With Australia needing 24 runs from the final three overs, South Africa's bowlers held their nerve against one of the strongest batting line-ups in world cricket. Ismail credited the entire attack for sticking to its plans and seizing key moments. The way the bowling unit came out, we were confident enough to know that we were going to defend the score. And I mean, Australia's a world-class team. They've got world-class players in their team. And for us to obviously get the wickets at crucial stages in the game really took the momentum forward for us. And hopefully for the next few training games as well, we can continue the momentum, she mentioned. With Australia needing 24 runs from the final three overs, South Africa's bowlers held their nerve against one of the strongest batting line-ups in world cricket. Ismail credited the entire attack for sticking to its plans and seizing key moments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We knew it was only a training match, but we wanted to finish on a high as well. And I think that gave the girls the confidence of still going out there, still doing what we need to do, but also finishing off with a positive result as well, she noted. Article Source: IANS
The Way Patidar Leads Is Similar To Dhoni And Rohit: Saba Karim
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengalurus backtoback IPL title wins have drawn high praise from former India cricketers, with Saba Karim equating skipper Rajat Patidars leadership to that of MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma. At the Narendra Modi Stadium, RCB lifted their second consecutive IPL title after beating Gujarat Titans by five wickets. The win also made RCB the third side after Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings to secure consecutive IPL title victories. Patidar is only the third captain to win back-to-back IPL titles after MS Dhoni (2010 and 2011 seasons) and Rohit Sharma (2019 and 2020 seasons). One of the biggest reasons behind RCB winning a second consecutive title has been the clarity around individual roles within the team, and Rajat Patidar deserves a lot of credit for that. If you look at his journey, he came in as a replacement player and eventually became the captain. For someone without international experience, earning respect in a dressing room filled with world-class players, including Virat Kohli, is not easy. Rajat earned that respect through consistent performances. Once he established himself, he became instrumental in shaping this side. He has played a major role in building a strong bowling unit. I also see a lot of clarity in his captaincy. When we talk about captains who have led teams to consecutive titles, names like MS Dhoni and Rohit Sharma come up, and I can see similarities in the way Rajat Patidar leads this team, said Karim on Star Sports. Sanjay Bangar, who also served as RCBs head coach before being succeeded by Andy Flower, felt the sides longawaited breakthrough had come at the right time after years of being so close yet so far. RCB always looked capable of making this kind of impact, but they had to wait a long time for it. They were consistently reaching the playoffs and finals, but once they tasted success and found a group of players who complemented each other well, things started to fall into place. What stands out about this RCB side is the experience it possesses. Most of the players have played international cricket, so in many ways it resembles an international team in terms of its make-up. That experience and temperament become invaluable in pressure situations. Success breeds confidence, and RCB have now multiplied that success. Who knows, this could be the start of a decade where they go on to win a few more titles, he added. Reflecting on runners-up GTs campaign, Anil Kumble said their middle order failed to back up the top three in crunch situations, something which occurred in the final. Gujarat Titans bounced back strongly after losing their first two matches, with their top order consistently providing excellent starts. Their bowling attack was also experienced and capable of handling pressure situations. That experience and temperament become invaluable in pressure situations. Success breeds confidence, and RCB have now multiplied that success. Who knows, this could be the start of a decade where they go on to win a few more titles, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Unfortunately for Gujarat Titans, the middle order could not recover from those early setbacks. That is an area they will certainly look to strengthen heading into next season, he added. Article Source: IANS
French Open 2026: Teen titan Fonseca topples Ruud to make quarterfinals
The 19-year-old had earlier fought from two sets down to knock out Novak Djokovic in the third round and emerge as a genuine contender in a topsy-turvy tournament
Kohli Knows How To Pace A Chase Right Through The Innings And Finish It Off: De Villiers
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru batting stalwart AB de Villiers hailed Virat Kohlis matchwinning knock of 75 not out in the IPL 2026 final, saying the talismanic batter knows how to pace a chase right through the innings and finish it off, as the side clinched their second successive title with a fivewicket win over Gujarat Titans. At the Narendra Modi Stadium, Kohli smashed a majestic 42-ball 75 not out, laced with nine fours and three sixes, as RCB completed a chase of 156 to retain the title they won at the same venue in 2025. In a final, if you take him out of that chasing batting order, then everything looks a bit different. With Rashid Khan firing from one end, and some of the other GT bowlers also doing really well, he just brings that calmness. He knows how to pace a chase right through the innings and finish it off. And it's very fitting that he was there right at the end, scoring the winning runs. GT were a bit naughty in feeding him into his strengths. A lot of deliveries were on the legs in his first 20-30 runs. If you give one of the best players of all time a start like that, he's always going to punish you. Once he started flowing, it was just plain sailing, one-way traffic. To be there at the end and call those final moments was absolutely phenomenal, said de Villiers on JioHotstar. He knows how to pace a chase right through the innings and finish it off. And it's very fitting that he was there right at the end, scoring the winning runs. GT were a bit naughty in feeding him into his strengths. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This year, when I saw Virat before the start of the game, there was quiet confidence. Weve been here before, we know how it works and what the formula is. And what a remarkable achievement, backtoback champions. I couldnt be prouder, he added. Article Source: IANS
Kohli Urges Young Cricketers To 'work Behind The Scenes' To Make An 'impact On The Field'
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: After helping Royal Challengers Bengaluru defend their IPL crown, veteran batter Virat Kohli reflected on the evolution of his batting, the demands of modern T20 cricket and the lessons he hopes the next generation of Indian cricketers can take from his journey as he urged the up-and-coming cricketers to read the game well and play according to the demands and situation. Kohli, who played a pivotal role in RCB's title-winning game on Sunday against the Gujarat Titans and finished the season with another impressive run-scoring effort, said the key to longevity is continuous improvement and adapting to the changing nature of the game. The fact that I continue to play and compete, I want to keep improving and find areas in my game where I can make a difference and help the team score. That's always been my focus, Kohli said in a video shared by IPL. Kohli turned his attention to young cricketers, stressing that success is not solely about power-hitting but about understanding match situations and developing multiple ways to contribute. It's about understanding situations in the game. The preparation has to be such that you can play in 3-4 different ways. If the pitch gets tough, you should be able to hit boundaries and not just sixes. Even if that's not possible, you should be able to rotate, strike and stay in the game, he said. According to Kohli, the foundation for those solutions is laid long before match day, and the former India captain expressed his desire to pass on those lessons whenever younger players seek his guidance. For that, you need to do the work behind the scenes when you're not competing. That's probably the process to go about things when you want to make an impact on the field. Hopefully, whoever comes to have a chat with me, I can convey the same message with clarity. Keep the standard of Indian cricket high, he mentioned. He believes versatility is what separates good players from great ones, as he said, I try to prepare a well-rounded game and try to implement that as best as I can in every situation that I play. That's the only thing I urge the youngsters to understand. Play according to the situation and the demands of the game. If you stay with the situation of the game, you're always going to be able to find solutions. The veteran batter acknowledged that T20 cricket has undergone significant changes in recent years, forcing even established players to reassess their methods. The game is changing pretty rapidly. Just an opportunity for me to look at areas where I can get better. The explosive side of the game was something that needs to be taken care of nowadays. While known more for timing and placement than brute power, Kohli explained how he has adapted without straying from his strengths and also pointed to a statistic that reinforces his value to the team. I'm not a guy who will hit 40-50 sixes in a season, but I can hit 70-80 fours. I really worked on that aspect of my game. I'm going to hit the shots I can hit more often and take the bowlers on. That's always been my goal to be as consistent and impactful as possible. Feels good to know that when I play longer in the game, our success rate is 100% for the last two seasons. That gives me clarity as well that if I back for long enough in the game, our chances of winning improve significantly. Of course, it's a great feeling, the 37-year-old said. Looking back at RCB's title defence, Kohli said the champions entered the final with complete confidence in their abilities after dominating the league stage. That belief, he said, was built on months of consistent performances. I'm not a guy who will hit 40-50 sixes in a season, but I can hit 70-80 fours. I really worked on that aspect of my game. I'm going to hit the shots I can hit more often and take the bowlers on. That's always been my goal to be as consistent and impactful as possible. Feels good to know that when I play longer in the game, our success rate is 100% for the last two seasons. That gives me clarity as well that if I back for long enough in the game, our chances of winning improve significantly. Of course, it's a great feeling, the 37-year-old said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And the league stage was a proof of that. We finished top of the league table and ended up getting to the finals before everyone else. And yeah, just very professional, very mature performance from the whole team throughout the season. And yeah, we just didn't have any doubts coming in today, Kohli expressed. Article Source: IANS
He Likes To Be A Star, Not A Superstar: DK Hails RCB Skipper Patidar's 'calming Influence'
After Royal Challengers Bengaluru: After Royal Challengers Bengaluru clinched their second successive IPL title with a fivewicket win over Gujarat Titans in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium batting coach and mentor Dinesh Karthik praised skipper Rajat Patidars calmness, saying that bowlers tend to thrive when they have a captain like him leading the side. Patidar-led RCB finished at the top of the ten-team points table in the league stage and successfully defended their title by chasing down 156. Before Virat Kohlis unbeaten 75 took them over the line, seamers Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Rasikh Salam Dar were precise in their execution of plans to rattle GT and keep them to 155/8. Rajat has been a huge calming influence in a dressing room that is high-octane and high testosterone. He keeps things very calm, and that's so important. The bowlers thrive when you have a calm captain; it definitely helps under pressure. I think he likes to be a star, not a superstar. There are plenty of guys in that team who are big names and get the job done in high-pressure situations. The only time Rajat is aggressive is when he's batting. Other than that, he brings a very calm atmosphere and is happy for a lot of the senior players to go front and centre, which I believe is a very important trait in a leader. He just sits back, allows things to get done, and does exactly what needs to be done in that moment, said Karthik on JioHotstar. Karthik was also in praise of the responsibility shown by senior players like Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar and Kohli in making RCB only the third team after Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings to defend their IPL title. We have a lot of skill in the room. We're a very well-rounded team, both batting and bowling. We've tried to make sure most of the boxes are ticked in terms of the power we have and the skill we possess with the ball. It was great to see someone like Bhuvi bring his experience to the fore from game one right through to the end, he was always there for us. Hazlewood started in a certain way but finished strongly for us. Virat, under pressure and in a big chase, stood up yet again. That's why he's called the King. You can see youngsters playing a lot of different shots, but it was him who brought solidity to the chase. GT wanted one wicket. They knew that if they got Virat at any point, the game would be different for them. He withstood that pressure, and that tells you everything you need to know about him, he elaborated. Karthik signed off by underlining the importance of squad depth and quality backups for RCB to thrive as a winning unit. Ideally, I might not want another mega auction, but there's a lot of planning that goes into it. It's one thing to have a good starting XII, but you always know that in a tournament like this, there could be an injury, a player arriving late, or someone dealing with family issues, and you need to be prepared for all of that. You can see youngsters playing a lot of different shots, but it was him who brought solidity to the chase. GT wanted one wicket. They knew that if they got Virat at any point, the game would be different for them. He withstood that pressure, and that tells you everything you need to know about him, he elaborated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rasikh Salam didn't get a game for us last year, but this year, the way he has come in under pressure, constantly bowling tough overs and standing up to the challenge, has been impressive. He's got that character, and it emanates from the way we practise and the clarity Mo and Andy have given to a lot of the players. Article Source: IANS
Solanki 'would have liked to have gone one step further' but still 'immensely proud' of GT
He said sending Nishant Sindhu at No. 3 wasn't a predetermined move, and was taken by head coach Ashish Nehra
Get Addicted To This Feeling...: Mo Bobat's Rallying Cry After RCB's Back-to-back IPL Title Triumphs
Indian Premier League: After their monumental triumph in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 final, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Director of Cricket, Mo Bobat, delivered a stirring dressing-room speech, urging his players to become addicted to the feeling of winning trophies. RCB successfully defended their title at the Narendra Modi Stadium, defeating Gujarat Titans (GT) to become only the third team in IPL history to win back-to-back championships. In an address to the victorious squad, Bobat stated that this historic achievement is just the beginning of a dominant era for the franchise. With the title win, RCB became only the third franchise after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians to retain the IPL title, cementing their place among the competition's most successful sides. I'm going to ask you to do something. I'm going to ask you to really, really make sure we get addicted to this feeling, because this is a start. Not many teams have won back-to-back IPLs. It's happened twice before. So get addicted to the feeling, because it's that feeling that drives the hunger to go again next year, Bobat said in a video shared by RCB on their social media. It's that addiction to winning and winning that trophy and sharing these moments that drives us on, he added. I'm going to ask you to do something. I'm going to ask you to really, really make sure we get addicted to this feeling, because this is a start. Not many teams have won back-to-back IPLs. It's happened twice before. So get addicted to the feeling, because it's that feeling that drives the hunger to go again next year, Bobat said in a video shared by RCB on their social media. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB's response could not have begun in more emphatic fashion. Virat Kohli (75 not out) and Venkatesh Iyer (32) tore into the chase, bringing up the team fifty in just 3.3 overs the fastest fifty by a side in an IPL final. The opening partnership immediately seized control of the contest and placed GT under immense pressure and reached 161/5 with 12 balls to spare to wrap up the win. Article Source: IANS
Gautam Gambhir Enjoys 'match Without Coaching The Player' As Daughter Aazeen Plays Tennis
Delhi Lawn Tennis Association: India head coach Gautam Gambhir enjoyed time off with his family and watched his elder daughter Aazeen play tennis, saying he felt good watching a match without the stress and pressure of coaching. India's head coach Gautam Gambhir spent quality time with his family and watched his elder daughter, Aazeen, play tennis as he mentioned he felt relaxed and enjoyed the match without the stress and pressure of coaching. Gambhir shared a video on Facebook of him tying his daughters shoelaces and then sitting on the sidelines of the court at the Delhi Lawn Tennis Association (DLTA), watching his daughter play tennis. In the video's caption, Gambhir wrote, Its good to see a match without coaching the player! After the T20 World Cup 2026 concluded on March 8, Gambhir had ample time off as Indian players joined their respective franchises for the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). With the cash-rich event now concluded and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifting a second consecutive title on Sunday, the players will now shift their focus to national duty as Team India begin their preparations to take on Afghanistan in a one-off four-day Test, starting June 6. Gambhir too will join the squad as the Shubman Gill-led side heads to New Chandigarh for the red-ball game. The two sides will then face off in three ODIs, starting June 13, as both teams begin their preparations for the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup, slated to take place next year. Notably, the tournament will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. After the T20 World Cup 2026 concluded on March 8, Gambhir had ample time off as Indian players joined their respective franchises for the 19th edition of the Indian Premier League (IPL). With the cash-rich event now concluded and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) lifting a second consecutive title on Sunday, the players will now shift their focus to national duty as Team India begin their preparations to take on Afghanistan in a one-off four-day Test, starting June 6. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jasprit Bumrah has been rested for the series, with India continuing to focus on his workload management after a busy few months of cricket. Senior players Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli, who recently reiterated their commitment to playing in the Cricket World Cup 2027, have been picked for the ODI series, although Rohit and Hardik Pandya's participation will depend on fitness clearance from the BCCI. Article Source: IANS
IPL Final Shift Row: Shivakumar Says Karnataka Won't Lose Major Matches In Future
Karnataka State Cricket Association: Chief Minister-designate and Karnataka Congress President D.K. Shivakumar on Monday alleged that influence from Gujarat led to the shifting of the IPL final from Karnataka to Ahmedabad, depriving fans in the state of hosting the marquee match. Speaking to reporters at his residence in Bengaluru, Shivakumar said the IPL final should have been held in Karnataka and that the state government had granted the necessary permissions. But those from Gujarat used their influence and snatched away the match from us by shifting it to Ahmedabad, he alleged. Shivakumar said efforts would be made to ensure that Karnataka does not lose out on hosting such major sporting events in the future. We are making preparations so that such matches are not taken away from Karnataka in the future. It may take some time, but we are committed to strengthening our position, he said. Describing the development as an injustice to both the state's cricket infrastructure and its youth, Shivakumar said many young cricket enthusiasts were disappointed at not being able to watch the final at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. It is an injustice to the stadium we have here and also to the youngsters. The cricket final was supposed to be played here, but they did not allow it and shifted it to Ahmedabad. Naturally, many young fans are disappointed that they could not witness the final in Bengaluru, he said. Congratulating the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) team on their successful campaign, Shivakumar said the franchise had brought pride to Karnataka. The RCB team, which is identified as Karnataka's team, has played exceptionally well. On behalf of the people of Karnataka and RCB supporters across the state, I congratulate the players and wish them continued success. They should be proud of their achievement, he said. Referring to past differences, Shivakumar added that Karnataka had moved forward and was focused on a new beginning. Whatever happened in the past, we have forgotten and moved towards a new beginning. This is a success story. All the players performed very well, and I congratulate the entire RCB team, he said. Expressing confidence about the future, Shivakumar said Karnataka would continue to play a major role in Indian cricket. The future is again with Karnataka, he added. The IPL 2026 final was originally scheduled to be held at Bengaluru's M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, as Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), the defending champions, were expected to host the title clash under IPL convention. However, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) later shifted the final to Ahmedabad's Narendra Modi Stadium. Expressing confidence about the future, Shivakumar said Karnataka would continue to play a major role in Indian cricket. The future is again with Karnataka, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The issue turned into a row as the decision came immediately after the Karnataka government mandated the KSCA to provide complementary tickets to legislators. Reports stated that the demand included around 900 tickets for MLAs and MLCs, along with additional allocations for government commitments. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan chase series win, Australia try to combat spin
The series continues at the batter-friendly Gadaffi Stadium in Lahore with the home side 1-0 up
Kohli has 'let himself go and he's having fun,' says Moody
He has a middle order [at RCB] that he can rely on, Varun Aaron says about Kohli's changed approach to T20 batting
Windies Reintegrate Hetmyer Into Windies ODI Setup, Name Squad For SL Series
Head Coach Daren Sammy: Cricket West Indies (CWI) has announced its 15-member squad for the three-match ODI series against Sri Lanka, which sees the return of Shimron Hetmyer, who has been reintegrated into the ODI setup as part of CWIs strategic build-up towards the 50-Over World Cup next year. CWI said Hetmyer will join the squad ahead of the third and final encounter.The squad also sees the return of fast bowler Alzarri Joseph, who had been sidelined since July 2025 due to a back injury, along with Gudakesh Motie, who missed the series away to New Zealand back in November. Joseph is in line to play his first internationals since Australia's visit last year after recovering from a back injury. The series, scheduled June 3-8 at Sabina Park in Jamaica, comes at the start of a crucial stage in the West Indies campaign for automatic qualification to the 2027 ICC Mens ODI World Cup. Led by captain Shai Hope, the West Indies will also be aiming to extend their unbeaten home ODI series streak to five consecutive victories, with the last triumph coming against Pakistan in August of last year. Head Coach Daren Sammy says the teams strong recent form at home has boosted confidence ahead of the series against a formidable opponent. Sri Lanka are a disciplined and skilful ODI unit, especially in conditions that demand patience and smart cricket. For us, this series is about setting the standard, intensity in the field, clarity with the bat, and consistency with the ball. We want to play fearless but intelligent cricket and continue building the identity we believe West Indies cricket should represent, he said. He added, In our desire to make home a fortress in ODI cricket, I want the team to win moments consistently rather than relying on individual brilliance which we have stressed for the last 18 months. Sri Lanka are a disciplined and skilful ODI unit, especially in conditions that demand patience and smart cricket. For us, this series is about setting the standard, intensity in the field, clarity with the bat, and consistency with the ball. We want to play fearless but intelligent cricket and continue building the identity we believe West Indies cricket should represent, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies ODI squad: Shai Hope (c/wk), Ackeem Auguste, John Campbell, Keacy Carty, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shimron Hetmyer, Amir Jangoo, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Gudakesh Motie, Sherfane Rutherford, Jayden Seales, Shamar Springer Article Source: IANS
The Level Of Competitiveness Made IPL 2026 Even More Exciting & Entertaining: Saikia
Indian Premier League: New Delhi, June 1 IANS) Following the conclusion of a highly competitive Indian Premier League (IPL) season, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia lauded champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) while noting razor-thin margins between the teams kept the tournament unpredictable until the very end, making it one of the most entertaining seasons. Powered by Virat Kohlis fastest halfcentury in the IPL, RCB sealed backtoback IPL title triumphs by completing a clinical chase of 156 and beating Gujarat Titans by five wickets in front of their passionate fans at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. With the title win, RCB became only the third franchise after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians to retain the IPL title, cementing their place among the competition's most successful sides. Congratulations to the champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru, and to all the participating teams for making this season highly entertaining and competitive, Saikia told IANS. Indian cricket continues to grow, with several young talents emerging through the tournament. The season was conducted smoothly, and the fans thoroughly enjoyed it, he added. RCB, who entered the tournament as defending champions, managed to secure back-to-back titles. However, the road to the playoffs was a closely fought battle among all franchises, a factor the BCCI top official believes is the biggest takeaway for Indian cricket. Every team was equally competitive, and until the playoffs, it was difficult to predict the eventual winner. That level of competitiveness made this season even more exciting and entertaining, Saikia concluded. RCB, who entered the tournament as defending champions, managed to secure back-to-back titles. However, the road to the playoffs was a closely fought battle among all franchises, a factor the BCCI top official believes is the biggest takeaway for Indian cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Supported by Venkatesh Iyers brisk 32, Kohlis masterly innings ensured the defending champions never lost grip of the chase and finished the job with authority to claim successive IPL crowns. Article Source: IANS
After Royal Challengers Bengaluru: After Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) successfully defended their IPL title, batting talisman Virat Kohlis childhood coach Rajkumar Sharma lauded the franchises professional blueprint, and the team played like champions throughout the season and added another golden chapter to their history by lifting their second successive title. RCB defeated 2022 winners Gujarat Titans by five wickets in the final at the Narendra Modi Stadium to successfully defend their crown. Chasing 156, RCB reached 161/5 with 12 balls to spare, becoming only the third franchise after Chennai Super Kings and Mumbai Indians to retain the IPL title. Yeah, it was a good achievement, but since the beginning itself they (RCB) were playing like champions, and they showed it on the ground that they are defending champions. They came with a very professional approach this year, and that is why they won the match easily and the trophy as well, Sharma told IANS on Monday. With their second IPL trophy, RCB came level with multiple-title winners, cementing their place among the competition's most successful sides. Following the win, talismanic batter Virat Kohli had remarked that he didn't feel the same pressure as last year, which his childhood coach finds entirely natural given the historic context of their maiden title. Well, it is something natural, Sharma said, reacting to Kohli's statement. They won it last year after a wait of 17 years. So, everybody was so excited. But since they have won last time... they celebrated, but I mean, waiting for something for years and then you win it, that's why the excitement (and pressure) was more (the first time). With their second IPL trophy, RCB came level with multiple-title winners, cementing their place among the competition's most successful sides. Following the win, talismanic batter Virat Kohli had remarked that he didn't feel the same pressure as last year, which his childhood coach finds entirely natural given the historic context of their maiden title. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Obviously, they should look [at a third title] the way they are playing. They are doing very well, they are playing like a champion team and everybody is doing their part. So, I think they would be favourites for the coming years, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Patidar on RCB's encore: 'We didn't just play but we dominated'
Patidar praised the RCB coaching staff, spoke about aiming for a three-peat and dedicated the title win to the fans who died in last year's stampede
'Ee Saala Nu Cup Namdu': Royal Challengers Bengaluru celebrated another historic night as captain Rajat Patidar lifted the IPL 2026 trophy after guiding the franchise to a second consecutive title at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday.
'Exceptional' Rasikh and 'unbelievable package' Krunal - RCB's champion support acts
Both Rasikh Salam and Krunal Pandya made significant contributions throughout the season as RCB lifted their second successive IPL trophy
French Open 2026: Sabalenka, Osaka clash in blockbuster encounter
World number one Sabalenka will likely face a stern test in her bid to win a maiden Roland Garros crown after suffering an agonising loss to Coco Gauff in last years final
Virat Kohlis unbeaten 75 powers RCB to second straight IPL title
Earlier, RCBs disciplined bowling attack, led by Rasikh Salam Dar, restricted Gujarat Titans to 155/8 despite an unbeaten fifty from Washington Sundar
Hetmyer 'reintegrated' into West Indies ODI squad with eye on 2027 World Cup
Alzarri Joseph returns from injury while left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie returns to the side
IPL 2026: Young Players Are Pushing To Change Your Game And Up The Ante, Says Kohli
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli believes the relentless rise of fearless young cricketers is forcing even the most accomplished veterans to evolve, with the Royal Challengers Bengaluru star admitting that modern T20 cricket demands constant reinvention. Fresh from guiding RCB to a second successive IPL title, Kohli reflected on how emerging talents have pushed him to adapt his approach, alter his mindset and continue finding new ways to stay ahead in a format that is changing faster than ever. Reflecting on the emotions of the final, where he remained unbeaten and hit the winning runs, Kohli admitted the occasion felt like something straight out of his dreams. Well, its the stuff that you dream of. Ive thought of this moment many times, that, you know, once when we win the IPL, I should be standing there hitting the winning runs and tonight it was possible. So yeah, just a dream day for us, Kohli said during the post-match press conference. Kohli said the confidence within the dressing room before the final was evident, with the team entering the contest relaxed and convinced about its strengths. And as I mentioned straight after the game as well, we just felt really relaxed coming to the game today and really confident about how we wanted to go about our game and what kind of team we have. And that gives you confidence to just, you know, see any kind of situation through, he said. The RCB star also explained why he looked so comfortable during the chase. But yeah, in a chase, I felt really comfortable out there knowing exactly what to do. The final also saw Kohli register the fastest half-century of his IPL career in his 19th season. He credited the changing demands of T20 cricket and the emergence of younger players for pushing him to adapt. However, for him, the challenge of staying relevant remains a source of motivation. Well, not really. I mean, such is the demand of the sport today. I mean, you have these, you know, super young players pushing you all the time and really asking you to change your game and up the ante. And its an exciting situation because it gives you something to improve on, something to work towards. And yeah, I just take a lot of pride in getting better and just trying to figure out areas where I can improve, he noted. He revealed that the adjustment was more mental than technical as he said, So yeah, it was just a case of the demands of todays modern game where you need to get those 20, 30 extra runs. And I had to kind of change my mindset, not my game so much to hit the shots I hit, but more often and take the bowlers on, probably the best bowlers in the opposition. That was always my target. So very happy I was able to contribute towards the team cause. Having won the title in 2025, RCB entered this season with a clear objective to finish at the top of the table and focus solely on their own cricket. Absolutely. I mean, the first target was to finish top of the table. We achieved that. And then after that, it was just about you know, a lot of people asked us, who do you prefer in the finals? And we said, it doesnt matter for us. We dont care what jersey is in front of us. We are playing great cricket. We want to focus on RCB and not the other teams, he said. Kohli stressed that the squad maintained respect for every opponent while trusting its own abilities. And were going to be respectful of all the other teams. We dont poke any other team, you know. Were very happy to carry on playing professional cricket. We have a lot of mature players in the group, a lot of experienced guys, and the experience always shines through in difficult situations. He then underlined the importance of senior players delivering when the stakes are highest. You can have all the excitement and slam-bang in the world, but come the big situations, you need the big boys to step up. And thats exactly what we did. One of the themes of RCB's title-winning campaign was the number of players who contributed at different stages. Kohli said that depth gave him tremendous confidence throughout the season. Absolutely. I mean, even tonight, I know its a chase and they probably look to get me out early, but I was very confident that even if I get out early, we have a champion team thats going to finish the job, you know, three or four overs to go. So when you have that kind of confidence, you can go out there and really take the bowlers on. He credited the management and players for building a squad capable of sustaining success. And I think thats credit to the management, the way they stacked up the squad, the talent of the players, the belief that the players have shown. And we stand here champions back-to-back, which is a special feat. Kohli also revealed that the ambition of winning consecutive titles was discussed immediately after last year's triumph. Thats exactly what Mo Bobat said when we won last year, that its not the end of the road. Were going to look to go back-to-back. And thats exactly what we ended up achieving. So were really proud of us as a team. Discussing his opening partnership with Venkatesh Iyer, Kohli said the plan was straightforward from the outset. Yeah, I mean, simple chat to Venky in the change room. And I just told him one thing, we need to kill the game in the power play. And he said, yeah, lets go. So it was total clarity. The pair's aggressive intent ensured RCB remained ahead of the chase from the very beginning. There was no doubt at any stage when both of us were going. We just wanted to strike. We just wanted to take the bowlers on because we knew in a big game, if you lose a couple of wickets, things can get tricky. Kohli also explained the small targets they set during the innings. So never let the run rate go up to seven and a half, eight. And then we had small targets in mind. You know, when you get the score under those targets, then you can really go and play free cricket. So, yeah, credit to Venkatesh as well. He stepped in and did a beautiful job up top. And his intent was probably the difference maker for us in the last three or four games. Finally, Kohli paid tribute to RCB's supporters, who once again turned a neutral venue into what felt like a home game. He pointed to the overwhelming support in Ahmedabad as another example of the bond between the franchise and its followers. I mean, I always say we dont have seven home games. We probably have 14 because everywhere we go, we have fans cheering the team and, you know, really getting behind us. I mean, GT is probably the home side, but you see 90 percent of the guys are RCB fans. So thats what weve earned over the years and we just continue to make them proud and try to put our best foot forward, he mentioned. Finally, Kohli paid tribute to RCB's supporters, who once again turned a neutral venue into what felt like a home game. He pointed to the overwhelming support in Ahmedabad as another example of the bond between the franchise and its followers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And yeah, their support is priceless and really happy that they can celebrate us lifting the trophy tonight and witness that. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Someone Stepped Up When Needed,' Says Hazlewood After Back-to-back Titles
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Josh Hazlewood believes Royal Challengers Bengaluru's successful IPL title defence was built on composure, squad depth and a team-first culture, as the Australian fast bowler celebrated his third IPL victory following RCB's win over Gujarat Titans in the 2026 final. Having helped Bengaluru become only the third franchise in league history to retain the title, Hazlewood said this year's triumph felt different from the breakthrough success of 2025. Thats right up there. I think obviously a little bit more relaxed within the group this year. We sort of got the monkey off the back last year in terms of a long wait for that first win, the pacer said after the win. According to the Australian quick, the defending champions never appeared rattled throughout the campaign and consistently found match-winners in crucial moments. But I think the group just felt calm and composed throughout the whole tournament, really. Someone stepped up when they needed to be. I think we had, again, like 10 Man of the Match awards. So amazing depth in the squad. Anyone who came in did a great job and the bowling group is pretty special, he added. Hazlewood reserved special praise for fellow pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, whose consistency with the new ball helped shape RCB's title-winning season. The veteran Indian seamer finished as the tournament's second-highest wicket-taker with 28 scalps. I cant remember a game where he went for over 35 runs. In this day and age, its unbelievable. Hazlewood said Bhuvneshwar's ability to strike early regularly eased the burden on the rest of the attack. He got wickets up front in nearly every game we played and just took the heat off, I think, the rest of us. We could relax and, you know, we were bowling at numbers four and five in the powerplay. So its pretty nice, the Aussie quick said. The 35-year-old also highlighted the role of the franchise's management and support staff in building a winning environment. Yeah, I think the franchise has been put together beautifully. You know, not just the players, but I think the support staff as well. Again, its a nice, relaxed atmosphere to play your best, to try and play your best cricket in and perform, the pace ace stated. For Hazlewood, the strongest quality within the squad is the bond shared by the group. Yeah, I think the franchise has been put together beautifully. You know, not just the players, but I think the support staff as well. Again, its a nice, relaxed atmosphere to play your best, to try and play your best cricket in and perform, the pace ace stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And when asked whether RCB can chase a third consecutive title in 2027, a feat that no team has ever achieved in the tournaments history, Hazlewood's answer was brief and confident. Yeah, I cant see why not. Yeah, absolutely, he opined. Article Source: IANS
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru all-rounder Krunal Pandya described the franchise's successful IPL title defence as a reward for years of patience and planning, while also celebrating his own milestone of winning a fifth IPL trophy. Having played a key role in RCB's rise over the past two seasons, Krunal admitted that each championship occupies a special place in his career and that comparing them is nearly impossible. Every IPL trophy is special. Theres no doubt about it. Its like having kids, right? You cant pick. Similar with IPL trophies because everything is so hard-earned, Krunal said after the win. The experienced all-rounder reflected on his personal achievement after lifting the IPL trophy for the fifth time in 11 seasons, as he said, Im so glad and grateful that in 11 years, to have five trophies, its pretty special for me. While players received much of the attention during RCB's title-winning run, Krunal was quick to acknowledge the work done behind the scenes. He credited the franchise's management and coaching staff for assembling a squad capable of winning consecutive championships. I mean, obviously, a lot of credit goes to the support staff, right? Mo Bobat, Andy Flower, Dinesh Karthik, Malolan, Omi (Omkar Salvi). I mean, the way they prepared before the auction also last year and the way they set the team, right? The balance of it, Krunal stated. According to Krunal, Bengaluru's success was built long before the first ball of the season was bowled. So, again, I mean, sometimes half of the battle is won in the auction. I guess they did a pretty good job. And then eventually, it was on us to go out and deliver. And yeah, I mean, glad that we were able to, you know, have a hold on the trophy back-to-back, the all-rounder added. For the 35-year-old, however, the achievement extends beyond the dressing room. Krunal said the back-to-back triumphs carry special significance for a fanbase that waited 18 seasons to witness the franchise's first title. Yeah, definitely. Again, all those 18 years of waiting and then winning two back-to-back trophies. This is for the RCB fans. Wherever we have gone, they have supported us, he said. For the 35-year-old, however, the achievement extends beyond the dressing room. Krunal said the back-to-back triumphs carry special significance for a fanbase that waited 18 seasons to witness the franchise's first title. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And obviously for Virat, its been pretty special. Right after 18 and 19 seasons, having two back-to-back trophies. So yeah, its amazing, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Patidar Praises RCB's Faith After Back-to-back IPL Titles As Kohli Leads Ahmedabad Victory
Ee Sala Cup Namdu: Rajat Patidar struggled to find the right words after he led Royal Challengers Bengaluru to their second consecutive IPL title on Sunday. He said the achievement felt surreal and was something he had never imagined when he joined the franchise. It feels superb. When we came here, there were many memories from last year. I dont have words to express how I feel, but its very good, Patidar said after RCB secured a solid five-wicket victory over Gujarat Titans in the IPL 2026 final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The RCB captain praised the team's careful planning and the consistency of the bowling attack throughout the season. It was clear planning. When we win the toss, it was easy to chase. The way Bhuvi, Hazlewood, Rasikh, KP Suyash, and Shepherd bowled was impressive throughout the tournament, he said. Patidars team delivered another strong performance to defend their title, becoming only the third team, alongside Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, to successfully retain the IPL trophy. Chasing 156 runs, RCB relied on Virat Kohli's unbeaten 75 off 42 balls, marking his fastest IPL fifty, as the defending champions confidently pursued the target. The victory held special meaning for Patidar, who reflected on his unexpected rise to captaincy. I never dreamed of becoming the captain of RCB and lifting the trophy. I think it was meant to be. I am grateful for that, he said. RCB started the season with the confidence gained from their first title in 2025, and Patidar believed that experience made a difference. We were slightly more confident than last year. Everywhere felt like a home ground for us with the fans supporting us, he said, acknowledging the traveling support for the franchise across various venues. Patidar also shared how his preparation before the tournament played a crucial role in his success. The pre-tournament prep was very good for me. I focused on discovering which shots work for me. I received a lot of useful input from DK, he said, crediting mentor Dinesh Karthik for his guidance throughout the campaign. While Kohli once again shone on the big stage, Patidar highlighted the veteran's contribution beyond just runs. He (Virat Kohli) is always there for the team, he said. Earlier, Gujarat Titans were limited to 155/8 despite Washington Sundar's fighting half-century. RCB's bowlers, led by Rasikh Salam Dar's three wickets and disciplined performances from Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, kept the Titans from gaining momentum. While Kohli once again shone on the big stage, Patidar highlighted the veteran's contribution beyond just runs. He (Virat Kohli) is always there for the team, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As celebrations erupted in Ahmedabad, Patidar had a final message for the supporters who have stood by the team through the years: This one is for you again, RCB fans. Ee Sala Cup Namdu. Article Source: IANS
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RCB's 2nd IPL Victory Sparks Celebrations In Karnataka, Leaders Extend Congratulations
Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah: Celebrations erupted across Karnataka following the victory of the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) final against the Gujarat Titans. Fans and supporters of the RCB team marked the occasion by bursting fireworks, cheering enthusiastically, and congratulating one another. In Bengaluru, the celebrations knew no bounds despite tight security arrangements and close police monitoring. Thousands of jubilant fans took to the streets to celebrate RCB's historic triumph, creating a festive atmosphere across the city. CM-designate D.K. Shivakumar, Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy, former CM Siddaramaiah and others have conveyed congratulations to the team Bengaluru. Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy on Sunday congratulated Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on winning the IPL 2026 title, hailing the franchise's second consecutive championship triumph as a testament to consistency, character and an unrelenting will to win. In a statement, Kumaraswamy said the Red and Gold reign supreme once again, and praised RCB for further cementing its place in the hearts of cricket lovers across the country with another memorable campaign. He said the title was built on a series of commanding performances and moments of brilliance under pressure, reflecting the team's determination and resilience throughout the tournament. Kumaraswamy reserved special praise for star batter Virat Kohli, noting that he once again led from the front with the bat, scoring more than 650 runs during the season and inspiring the team at every stage of the competition. He also lauded veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar for his outstanding bowling performances, stating that his haul of 28 wickets provided crucial breakthroughs whenever the team needed them most. Kumaraswamy commended Captain Rajat Patidar for leading the side with composure, courage and conviction, while also making valuable contributions with the bat. He further singled out all-rounder Krunal Pandya for special praise, describing him as the ultimate clutch performer whose impactful displays with both bat and ball repeatedly turned matches in RCBs favour at critical moments. Congratulating the players, coaching staff, support personnel and millions of loyal fans, Shivakumar said RCBs achievement was about more than just winning another trophy. The Red and Gold have not merely won a trophy; they have built a legacy, he said. Karnataka Chief Minister-designate D.K. Shivakumar congratulated Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on winning their second consecutive IPL title, describing the triumph as another proud moment for Bengaluru and its cricket fans. In a statement, Shivakumar said, Tonight, Bengaluru rises again as champions, celebrating RCB's historic achievement of securing back-to-back IPL championships. He said the team had created history through grit, composure and the spirit of true champions, once again bringing pride to Bengaluru with its remarkable performance throughout the tournament. This time too, the cup is ours, he said, echoing the celebrations of millions of RCB supporters across Karnataka and the country. Shivakumar congratulated the players, coaching staff, support personnel and the franchise's vast fan base, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout the campaign. He noted that the title triumph marked a golden chapter in RCB's history and added to the franchise's growing legacy in Indian cricket. Calling it a memorable achievement for Bengaluru, Shivakumar said RCB's success would be cherished by cricket lovers for years to come. Former Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah congratulated the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) for winning the IPL title for the second consecutive year, praising the team's fighting spirit and collective performance throughout the tournament. In a statement, Siddaramaiah said that RCB once again emerged as IPL champions and noted that the team's aggressive and determined brand of cricket had left rival sides with little answer throughout the competition. Congratulating the franchise on its back-to-back title triumph, he said the performances of Rasikh Dar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Virat Kohli in the final would remain etched in the memories of cricket fans for a long time. He described the victory as the result of a united and determined team effort and said the triumph had created a festive atmosphere in the homes of RCB supporters across Karnataka and beyond. Congratulating the franchise on its back-to-back title triumph, he said the performances of Rasikh Dar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Virat Kohli in the final would remain etched in the memories of cricket fans for a long time. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This time too, the cup is ours, he said, joining millions of RCB fans in celebrating the team's latest IPL success. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Seamers Brilliance, Kohlis Unbeaten 75 Helps RCB Defend Their Title (2nd Ld)
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Riding on Virat Kohlis unbeaten 75 and a disciplined display from their seamers, Royal Challengers Bengaluru defended their IPL crown with a fivewicket win over Gujarat Titans in the 2026 final at a packed Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. Washington Sundars fighting unbeaten 37-ball fifty took GT to 155/8, though Rasikh Salam Dars 3-27 and early strikes from Josh Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar Kumar kept them in check on a mixed soil pitch. In reply, Kohli registered his fastest halfcentury in the league off 25 balls and anchored the chase of 156 with trademark authority by remaining unbeaten on 75 off 42 balls laced with nine fours and three sixes, also his highest score in the IPL playoffs. It also continued a remarkable streak - RCB have not lost a game since 2025 whenever Kohli has scored a fifty, as he ensured the side joined Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings as the only teams to successfully defend their IPL title, while extending the streak of Qualifier 1 winners lifting the trophy to nine seasons. The win completed with two overs to spare also means Josh Hazlewood remains unbeaten in white-ball finals while Krunal Pandya has emerged victorious in every IPL final he's played in. GT, champions in 2022 at the same venue, were undone by disciplined RCB bowling and the scheduling grind of playing their third game at a third venue in six days, having reached Ahmedabad only on Saturday night due to inclement weather. Kohlis landmark knock then turned the final into a onesided affair, thus reaffirming his reputation as the man for the big occasion. With this clinical triumph in Ahmedabad, RCB have not only defended their crown but also cemented their place among the leagues most successful franchises, apart from having the rare honour of holding both WPL and IPL titles at the same time. RCBs chase began with Kohli and Venkatesh Iyer tearing into GTs newball attack. Kohli unfurled a flurry of wristy flicks (one of which went for a jaw-dropping six) and pulls against Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj, and race to 28 off just 10 balls in just four overs, while Iyer smashed 32 off 16 deliveries despite battling a right knee niggle. The pair brought up RCBs fifty inside 21 balls - the fastest in an IPL final - and ensured the asking rate was never a concern from the get go. Iyer eventually lobbed a pull to mid-on off Siraj and Rabada, who had conceded 37 in his first two overs, eventually dismissed Devdutt Padikkal cheaply when he sliced to third man. By then, the damage had already been done by RCB. Rajat Patidar joined Kohli and kept the tempo high by pulling Siraj for six, before swivelling off Jason Holder for four. Kohli, meanwhile, continued to keep going despite GT trying some mind games through Sai Sudharsans chatter. But GT struck right after first time-out when Patidar holed out to long-on off Rashid Khan, who trapped Krunal Pandya plumb lbw in the same over. With Tim David joining the boundary hitting act, Kohli got his fifty in 25 balls after pulling Arshad Khan though short mid-wicket for a boundary, despite struggling with cramps in his right leg. Though David gave a feather edge behind off Arshad Khan after GT got the decision in their favour via review, Kohli and Jitesh Sharma hit exquisite fours to take RCB closer. Kohli then survived a caught out decision on 63 as replays showed the ball touched the ground while Gill was trying to take the diving catch at mid-on. Fittingly, Kohli finished off the chase by pulling Arshad in the gap between mid-on and mid-wicket before smacking him over long-on for six to spark jubilant celebrations in the RCB camp and their loyal fans after clinching the IPL title once again. Previously, amidst the collapse triggered by RCBs seamers executing their plans with precision, Sundar stood tall for GT. He survived an early scare when a catch taken by Jordan Cox was ruled grounded, and went on to anchor the innings with a composed fifty. After being pushed into batting first by RCB, GT endured a shaky start as Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar exploited bounce and movement off the pitch. Gill was dismissed for 10 - slicing a shortarm pull to Patidar, while Sudharsan followed soon after topedging a bouncer to Jitesh for 12. Nishant Sindhu and Jos Buttler tried to steady the innings, but with no coming boundary after the powerplay, the former holed out to longon for 20. Buttler, frustrated by dot balls, advanced to attack off Krunal but was undone by a wide yorker and sharp stumping from Jitesh. Previously, amidst the collapse triggered by RCBs seamers executing their plans with precision, Sundar stood tall for GT. He survived an early scare when a catch taken by Jordan Cox was ruled grounded, and went on to anchor the innings with a composed fifty. After being pushed into batting first by RCB, GT endured a shaky start as Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar exploited bounce and movement off the pitch. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Gujarat Titans 155/8 in 20 overs (Washington Sundar 50 not out, Nishant Sindhu 20; Rasikh Salam Dar 3-27, Bhuvneshwar Kumar 2-29) lost to Royal Challengers Bengaluru 161/5 in 18 overs (Virat Kohli 75 not out, Venkatesh Iyer 32; Rashid Khan 2-25) by five wickets Article Source: IANS
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Virat Kohli believes Royal Challengers Bengaluru's successful IPL title defence was built on conviction rather than pressure, with the defending champions trusting their strengths throughout a campaign that ended with a commanding victory over Gujarat Titans in the final. After guiding the chase with an unbeaten 75, Kohli explained that the atmosphere within the dressing room was markedly different from last season, when RCB ended their long wait for a maiden IPL trophy. Well, I said to a few of the boys that it doesnt feel like the same pressure as last year. We knew what kind of ability we have in the group. We topped the table. Theres a reason why we got here first, Kohli said after RCB clinched a second consecutive title. The former RCB captain said the team never lost sight of the formula that had made them the competition's most consistent side during the league stage. And we just said one thing: if we stick to our cricket, if we execute our plans, we are the best team in the comp. And theres a reason why we have done well so far in the group stage. We ended up topping the league stage. That confidence was reflected in the final as Bengaluru produced a clinical all-round display to become only the third franchise in IPL history to defend its title. And yeah, its just the skill sets we have, the maturity, the composure of the guys just shone through again tonight and it was a clinical performance, the veteran batter said. However, Kohli admitted there was a period after the mid-season break when RCB's path to the final was not entirely straightforward. A defeat followed by a nervy win over Mumbai Indians briefly tested the team's momentum. To be fair, after the break, we had a couple of losses. I mean, one loss and then we had a close win against MI. Id say that week for us was a bit tricky because we wanted to finish top, he stated. According to Kohli, the narrow victory against Mumbai became a turning point in the campaign as he said, But as soon as we got that win against MI, the belief kicked back in. Then we had a comprehensive win against KKR and then, yeah, just ended up topping the table and just on our way to the finals. Kohli reserved his greatest praise for the squad's depth, highlighting how match-winners emerged throughout the season, removing the burden from any one individual. Its amazing. Weve had to wait for so long. And then, you know, just to have a group of guys where you feel like youre stepping onto the ground, you dont need to be the one to step up every time. Theres guys behind you, around you, who can win games of cricket for you, the former India captain noted. He pointed to the contributions of both the bowling attack and the batting unit, singling out several players who played crucial roles during the title run. We have so many Man of the Match awards cranked throughout the group as well. I mean, you look at world-class bowling like Hoff, Bhuvi, Duffy. I mean, Krunal Pandya, you know, you can bank on him, as good as ever. Rasikh Dar was brilliant this season. All the batsmen chipped in as well, Kohli mentioned. He pointed to the contributions of both the bowling attack and the batting unit, singling out several players who played crucial roles during the title run. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So I feel so happy to play in a group where we have balance, we have strength, and we are an all-round strong team. And yeah, thats why we have the confidence we have on the field right now, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
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Gaikwad Replaces Injured Parag In India A Squad For 50-over Tri-series In Sri Lanka
Lucknow Super Giants: Right-handed opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been drafted into the India A squad for the upcoming 50-over triseries in Sri Lanka, starting on June 9. Gaikwad replaces Riyan Parag, who has been ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury. The Mens Selection Committee has added Ruturaj Gaikwad to the India A squad for the upcoming tri-series in Sri Lanka. He replaces vice-captain Riyan Parag, who has been ruled out of the series due to a hamstring injury. Riyan's rehabilitation will be managed by the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE), said the BCCI in its statement on Sunday. Parag, who was named as the vice-captain of India A side for the tri-series, picked up the hamstring injury while captaining Rajasthan Royals in the later part of IPL 2026, leading to him missing their games against Lucknow Super Giants and Gujarat Titans. He looked restricted in his movement when playing in the final few games for RR, who bowed out of the competition after losing to GT by seven wickets in Qualifier 2 in New Chandigarh on Friday. With RRs campaign over in IPL 2026, Parag will now undergo rehab at the CoE in Bengaluru, a place where he spent some time earlier this year to recover from a shoulder niggle. Gaikwad, meanwhile, didnt have a memorable time while leading Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026. While the side finished at eighth spot on the points table, Gaikwad wasnt at his sparkling best amassing 337 runs in 14 games at an average of 28.08 and strike-rate of 123.44. Gaikwad, who has represented India in both whiteball formats and was last seen in international action during the 2-1 ODI series win over South Africa last year, joins captain Tilak Varma and fast bowler Anshul Kamboj as the only members of the India A squad with senior mens team caps. Gaikwad, meanwhile, didnt have a memorable time while leading Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in IPL 2026. While the side finished at eighth spot on the points table, Gaikwad wasnt at his sparkling best amassing 337 runs in 14 games at an average of 28.08 and strike-rate of 123.44. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Updated India A squad for tri-series: Tilak Varma (captain), Ruturaj Gaikwad (vice-captain), Priyansh Arya, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, Suryansh Shedge, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Kumar Kushagra (wk), Vipraj Nigam, Yash Thakur, Yudhvir Singh, Anshul Kamboj, Arshad Khan, and Anukul Roy. Article Source: IANS
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Jharkhand State Cricket Association: The six franchises of the Jharkhand T20 League, Ranchi Titans, Jamshedpur Steelers, Chota Nagpur Royals, Koylanchal Super Kings, Dhanbad Diamonds and Santhal Strikers battled it out on the bidding table to finalise their rosters, blending established international stars with the state's most promising emerging talent. The picks of the auction for the inaugural season of the were Robin Minz (Koylanchal Super Kings), Virat Singh (Chota Nagpur Royals), Md Kounain Quraishi (Jamshedpur Steelers), Sushant Mishra (Dhanbad Diamonds), Ishan Kishan (Santhal Strikers) and Shikhar Mohan (Ranchi Titans) with franchises spending their Rs 50 lakh purse cap aggressively to build their squads ahead of the league. Under the aegis of Jharkhand State Cricket Association, the Jharkhand T20 League will be conducted from June 10. This is an exciting new chapter in Jharkhands cricketing journey. The league is a landmark initiative by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) to further promote and develop the game at a professional level within our region, said Ajay Nath Shah Deo, President, Jharkhand State Cricket Association. Jharkhand T20 League will provide a robust platform for young and emerging cricketers to showcase their skills alongside experienced players. The league will bring high-quality, competitive T20 cricket to fans across the nation, said Sanjay Pandey, vice president, JSCA This is an exciting new chapter in Jharkhands cricketing journey. The league is a landmark initiative by the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) to further promote and develop the game at a professional level within our region, said Ajay Nath Shah Deo, President, Jharkhand State Cricket Association. Also Read: Live Cricket Score JSCA's main objective is the development of cricket in all formats and this is a right step forward in that direction. Its all set to be an exciting two weeks of competitive action, said Shahbaz Nadeem, Joint Secretary, JSCA. Article Source: IANS
Ee Sala Mattomme Namde: The stage is set at the Narendra Modi Stadium for the ultimate clash of the IPL 2026 final! On one side, we have the defending champions, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), riding a massive wave of emotion, havans, and prayers as they eye a historic back-to-back title defense. On the other side, the home favourites Gujarat Titans (GT), led by Shubman Gill, are back in front of their home crowd looking to reclaim the crown. From special poojas in Hubballi to havans in Vijayanagar, millions of hearts are beating to just one rhythm: Ee Sala Mattomme Namde. But to touch the sky again, RCB must conquer the GT Fortress in Ahmedabad. At the Ahmedabad airport, a sea of cricket enthusiasts arriving from various parts of the country were seen flocking to official merchandise stalls. Fans purchased jerseys, caps, and flags of their favourite teams ahead of the highly anticipated title clash, transforming the terminal into a vibrant hub of cricket lovers. BJP MP from Hamirpur and former cabinet minister Anurag Thakur said, The biggest cricket league in the world is reaching its climax today with the IPL final at the Narendra Modi Stadiumthe largest stadium in the world. We are set to see a tough competition between two teams that have performed brilliantly and consistently throughout the entire tournament. May the best team win, that's all I can say! One thing is for certain: the stadium is so packed that theres absolutely no room to move. The enthusiasm and excitement here are unreal. Meanwhile, in Karnataka, the anticipation has transcended sports and turned into deep-rooted devotion. In Hubballi, the Karnataka Drivers Union organised a special pooja, praying fervently for an RCB victory. Speaking to reporters, Union President Shekharayya Mathapati expressed supreme confidence in the team's capabilities, stating that the drivers' community stands solidly behind Bengaluru as they chase a historic second IPL title. Cricket in our country has a big fan following. That's why we have come to Narendra Modi Stadium to enjoy the IPL match with my family. And being in Gujarat, I can't say that RCB will win, Nitesh Rane, Minister of Fisheries & Ports development Govt. of Maharashtra, told reporters. The wave of spiritual backing was mirrored in Vijayanagar, where passionate RCB loyalists performed a solemn temple pooja and a traditional 'havan' to seek divine blessings for the team's success. However, the celebrations in Vijayanagar also carried a poignant note of remembrance. Alongside their prayers for victory, the Vijaynagar Cricket Association paid tribute to the 11 cricket lovers who tragically lost their lives in a stampede near Bengalurus M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during IPL 2025 celebrations. The members of the association urged every RCB fans to celebrate responsibly, emphasising that while the passion for the game remains unmatched, the safety of fellow enthusiasts must come first. However, the celebrations in Vijayanagar also carried a poignant note of remembrance. Alongside their prayers for victory, the Vijaynagar Cricket Association paid tribute to the 11 cricket lovers who tragically lost their lives in a stampede near Bengalurus M. Chinnaswamy Stadium during IPL 2025 celebrations. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With emotions running high from Ahmedabad to the heartlands of Karnataka, the 2026 final is shaping up to be more than just a cricket match. Article Source: IANS
Thailand, Malaysia and China qualify for Asian Games women's competition
The three teams join the four Full Members from the region - Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka - and hosts Japan at the main event
'GT Should At Least Consider It': Bangar Suggests Three Overseas Player Strategy For Final
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar has suggested Gujarat Titans (GT) consider an unconventional team combination for the IPL 2026 final against Royal Challengers Bengaluru, saying the franchise should at least explore the possibility of starting with only three overseas players if they bowl first. Gujarat Titans will take on defending champions RCB in Sundays title clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium, with the home side looking to overturn the disappointment of their 92-run defeat in Qualifier 1 earlier this week. Ahead of the summit clash, Bangar proposed a tactical move that could provide Gujarat with greater flexibility during a potentially high-scoring encounter. Its slightly out-of-the-box thinking, but can GT play with only three overseas players in their starting lineup when theyre bowling first? Bangar told Jio Hotstar. The former India all-rounder explained that such a strategy could allow Gujarat to strengthen their batting later in the match if conditions demand it. If Rashids overs are not required, they leave themselves the option of bringing in somebody like Glenn Phillips, which actually gives them a lot of batting strength, something you need when youre probably looking to chase down a score in excess of 210-220, he said. Bangar acknowledged that Gujarat may ultimately stick to their usual combination but believes the management should discuss every available option before the biggest match of the season. I dont think GT will go in that direction, but they should at least consider it, he said. The former India player also pointed to left-arm spinner Sai Kishore as a potential match-up Gujarat could exploit against RCB captain Rajat Patidar, who has been one of the driving forces behind Bengalurus run to a second consecutive final. And if there is one spinner who has had a little bit of success against Rajat Patidar, it is Sai Kishore. He bowls those slower deliveries outside Patidars hitting arc, and he also bowls with a lot of control against the left-handers, Bangar said. Another contest Bangar expects to have a major influence on the final is the battle between Gujarat captain Shubman Gill and experienced RCB seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Gill has been central to Gujarats campaign, leading from the front as the Titans recovered from a difficult start to finish among the leagues top teams and secure another final appearance. Bangar advised Gill to trust his technique rather than trying to disrupt Bhuvneshwars rhythm. Against Bhuvneshwar Kumar, I would not suggest batters to stand outside the crease or walk towards him because hes quite sharp. If he sees you dancing down the track, he can slip in that straightish short ball quite nicely, he said. Bangar advised Gill to trust his technique rather than trying to disrupt Bhuvneshwars rhythm. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The final will see Shubman Gills Gujarat Titans attempt to win their second IPL crown, while RCB are aiming to become only the third franchise in tournament history to retain the title. Article Source: IANS
Its A Final, But For Me Its A Normal Game: Patidar Focuses On Staying Calm Ahead Of IPL Title Clash
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar is keeping emotions and expectations in check ahead of the IPL 2026 final against the Gujarat Titans, insisting that Sundays title clash at the Narendra Modi Stadium is 'a normal game' for him despite the stakes involved. RCB enter the final as defending champions after another dominant campaign in which they topped the league standings and secured direct qualification for the summit clash with a crushing 92-run win over the Gujarat Titans in Qualifier 1. Speaking ahead of the final, Patidar said the team is drawing confidence from both its recent performances and the memories of last years title-winning campaign at the same venue. Feeling great, back-to-back finals, and on the same ground. So, there are a lot of memories of last year. Its a final, its a big stage, but for me I think its a normal game, Patidar said in a video released by RCB on X. The RCB skipper stressed the importance of staying focused on the present rather than getting carried away by the occasion. I always like to take a big game also as a normal game. And I always try to be more in the present. I dont want to think too much ahead. That its going to be final. What is going to happen. Nothing about the result. Stay more in the present, he added. RCB have been one of the standout teams of IPL 2026, finishing the league stage with nine wins from 14 matches. Their campaign featured impressive victories over Chennai Super Kings, Mumbai Indians, Kolkata Knight Riders and Punjab Kings, while the side also responded strongly to difficult phases during the tournament. Patidar credited the collective effort of the squad for helping the franchise reach a second consecutive final. We should be proud of the way we played till now in this tournament. Everyone has dominated. Everyone has contributed for the team. So its a good positive sign for them, he said. Reflecting on the opportunity to return to the Narendra Modi Stadium, Patidar said the team is eager to add another special chapter to its history. Great memories here. And we want to create some more memories in a couple of days time, he said. Head coach Andy Flower echoed his captains confidence while praising the teams consistency throughout the season. Feeling great, back-to-back finals, and on the same ground. So, there are a lot of memories of last year. The boys have done a brilliant job over a period of time to get here, Flower said. And get here with some style as well. It takes a lot of hard work and thought and courage from the boys out here, in the middle, in games, and a lot of nerve to top the table in this league. But theres more to do, obviously, he added. Feeling great, back-to-back finals, and on the same ground. So, there are a lot of memories of last year. The boys have done a brilliant job over a period of time to get here, Flower said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB will now look to complete a successful title defence when they face the Gujarat Titans on Sunday, with Patidars men aiming to become only the third team in IPL history to win back-to-back IPL trophies. Article Source: IANS
Tendulkar's IPL reforms: no impact player, two-part powerplay, five overs for one bowler
What's the best way to return some semblance of balance between bat and ball at the IPL? Sachin Tendulkar has a three-part solution
'WFI Must Learn From BCCI': Technical Glitches, Poor Officiating Mar Asian Games Wrestling Trials
The Asian Games: The Asian Games wrestling trials at Delhis IG Stadium were meant to showcase Indias best women wrestlers fighting for a place on the national team. Instead, the event exposed glaring shortcomings in administration, technology and officiating, prompting many in the wrestling fraternity to say that the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) needs to take a leaf out of the BCCIs playbook. Athletes and former wrestlers were left frustrated by repeated technical glitches, frequent stoppages and inconsistent refereeing that disrupted several key bouts. The consensus among many was clear: Indian wrestling deserves the same level of professionalism that has transformed Indian cricket. The WFI has a lot to learn from the BCCI, said a former wrestler. Cricket run professionally. They invest in technology, train officials and ensure events run smoothly. In wrestling, too often it feels like sab kuch bas chal raha hai. The strongest example came during the highly anticipated trial bout between Vinesh Phogat and Nishu in 53kg category. What should have been an intense contest turned into a stop-start affair as technical failures repeatedly interrupted the action. The bout eventually stretched beyond the time, with wrestlers, coaches and spectators forced to wait as officials attempted to resolve the glitches. The repeated interruptions not only affected the flow of the contest but also raised questions about the preparedness of organisers for one of the most important selection events of the season. Criticism was not limited to technology. Several bouts witnessed prolonged delays due to refereeing interventions and disputed decisions, with wrestlers and coaches often left seeking clarifications during crucial phases of competition. Former wrestlers believe such scenes reflect a deeper problem within the administration of the sport. Why cant we have properly trained referees, competent technical staff and reliable equipment? asked one former international wrestler. These are basic requirements for any major sporting event. The irony is that while Indian wrestlers continue to deliver world-class performances and medals on the international stage, many believe the systems supporting them remain far from world-class. Why cant we have properly trained referees, competent technical staff and reliable equipment? asked one former international wrestler. These are basic requirements for any major sporting event. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And by the end of the trials, the biggest debate was not about who earned a place in the Asian Games squad, but why a premier wrestling event was allowed to descend into chaos in the first place. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Gujarat's Gill Banks On Home Advantage In Final Against Bengaluru
Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill on Saturday said he is not burdened by expectations of home fans and will make use of familiar conditions in the IPL final against defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru in Ahmedabad. Gujarat hammered Rajasthan Royals in the last play-off to qualify for their third final in five years, winning the title in 2022. One of two latest teams in the T20 tournament, Gujarat won the trophy at the 130,000 Narendra Modi Stadium in their debut season and then lost the final next year in 2023 -- both under Hardik Pandya. Gill, who is India's Test and ODI captain, took over as Gujarat skipper ahead of the 2024 season and now heads into his first final as leader. Honestly, I don't really get burdened by expectations, said the 26-year-old Gill. There are advantages, that's how I see it, there's familiarity when we play there, we know the wicket, we know the ground, so, we know what kind of cricket we need to play there to be able to win. Gill, who hit 104 in the second qualifier in New Chandigarh on Friday, has amassed 722 runs, putting him second in the batting chart behind Rajasthan's 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on 776. Gill's opening partner, Sai Sudharsan, is third with 710 runs and the pair have laid the foundation of Gujarat's success. Bengaluru, led by Rajat Patidar, beat Gujarat in the first play-off to secure direct entry into the final. Patidar tasted success last year when his team and star player Virat Kohli won their first IPL trophy in their 18th attempt. 'Rollercoaster ride' Patidar will be in elite company if he wins back-to-back titles, feat achieved by only two IPL captains including M.S. Dhoni (Chennai Super Kings - 2010-11) and Rohit Sharma (Mumbai Indians 2019-20). I've never thought about what the other captains have done before and (whether I) had to compete with somebody or not, said Patidar. As an individual my journey has been a rollercoaster ride. I focus on the present, without bothering too much about the past and future. I am here to prepare and give the best in the final tomorrow. Bengaluru return to the venue they won the title last year after beating Punjab Kings in the final. But Patidar said they will play with a fresh mindset. You cannot keep talking about 2025 -- you have to be more in the present and do whatever best you can do to win the title, said Patidar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As I said earlier, that we are not here with the mindset of defending champion. We have an opportunity to win one more title. It's a new season.
Arafat Minhas Leaves Australia In A Spin As Pakistan Win Milestone ODI
Spinner Arafat Minhas became the first Pakistan bowler to take five wickets on his ODI debut on Saturday as the hosts eased to a five-wicket win over Australia in the series opener in Rawalpindi. Minhas finished with 5-32 as an under-strength Australia were bowled out for 200 in 44.1 overs before Pakistan chased down the target with 45 balls to spare for a memorable win in their 1,000th ODI. Babar Azam struck 69 off 94 balls and Ghazi Ghori made an impressive 65 as Australia's inexperienced spinners failed to match their Pakistani counterparts on a dry pitch assisting the slow bowlers. Azam and Ghori added 127 runs for the third wicket after the departures of Sahibzada Farhan (28) and Maaz Sadaqat (8) left Pakistan 49-2. Azam hit four fours and a six, while Ghori's knock featured eight boundaries. Both eventually fell to paceman Nathan Ellis with victory in sight. Minhas, who smashed a six to complete the win, said he was delighted with his starring role on debut. It's great to have achieved a record, said Minhas. I like to enjoy that pressure environment, and my focus was on enjoying this opportunity and it's great to have contributed to the victory. Australia's stand-in skipper Josh Inglis rued a lack of runs. I think 30-40 more runs would have been interesting, said Inglis. I thought we made them work really hard to get over the line. Australia are missing a host of key players including regular skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood alongside opener Travis Head. Australia, sent in to bat, saw Matthew Renshaw hit 61 after opener Matthew Short scored 55, but the tourists struggled against Pakistan's spin assault, with eight wickets going to slow bowlers. It was Abrar (2-44) who broke the opening stand of 34 with the wicket of Alex Carey for 19, before Minhas destroyed the batting with guile and accuracy. Minhas had Inglis (13) and Marnus Labuschagne (0) in his fourth over before getting Cameron Green for a third-ball duck in his next. At 68-4, Australia were in a spot of bother, but Short and Renshaw fought hard through a fifth-wicket stand of 55 before Minhas broke the partnership, with Short stumped. Abrar returned for his second spell to dismiss Renshaw while Arafat completed his five-wicket haul by removing Ellis for eight. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The remaining two matches are in Lahore on Tuesday and Thursday.
Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals: As the city gears up for the mega cricket carnival, the star captains of participating teams in the T20 Mumbai League 2026 and the inaugural T20 Mumbai Women's League came together for a grand season launch event in Mumbai on Saturday, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting two weeks of high-voltage cricketing action starting June 1. The event was attended by Ajinkya Naik, President, Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA), Rajdip Gupta, Chairman of the League Governing Council, the members of the Apex Council, League Governing Council, along with the members of all 11 teams and their operators, came together to celebrate the beginning of an exciting cricketing season. Since its inception in 2018, the T20 Mumbai League has been a launchpad for some of the most promising cricketing talent, establishing itself as one of Indias premier franchise-based domestic T20 tournaments. The upcoming season will feature a host of global stars alongside emerging talents across both the mens and womens competitions. Ajinkya Naik, President, Mumbai Cricket Association, said: It is a matter of pride for us that players like Ajinkya Rahane, Shardul Thakur, and Shreyas Iyer went on to represent India after playing for Mumbai, and will now share the dressing room with youngsters and pass on their knowledge and experience. The exposure these young players will gain from playing alongside such stalwarts will be immense. Similarly, for the womens players, the opportunity to share a dressing room with established stars will be invaluable. Players like Shivam Dube and Suryakumar Yadav performed in the first season of the league and went on to win the T20 World Cup for India. Rajdip Gupta, Chairman, League Governing Council, said: The main task I was assigned by the apex council members was to have the women's tournament started, and I would like to thank the apex council members, the governing council members, and the President Ajinkya Naik for giving me a free hand, and with everyone's support, we were able to do it. I officially announce the launch of the T20 Mumbai League and the T20 Mumbai Womens League. Adding to the excitement was an engaging fireside chat featuring captains and vice-captains, offering insights into their preparations and expectations ahead of the tournament. The event also featured a host of engaging performances, creating a fitting build-up to the 13-day tournament, which is set to showcase some of the city's finest cricketing talent. Really happy and excited for the season. First of all, congratulations to the Mumbai Cricket Association for providing this platform to all the young cricketers. For players who have worked really hard, this is a great opportunity to express their talent and take the next step in their careers. From our point of view, it's all about going out there and playing with freedom, said Ajinkya Rahane, Captain, North Mumbai Panthers. I feel it's a great opportunity for the youngsters, especially those coming up the ranks in domestic cricket, to showcase their talent and skills at this level. I feel it has definitely gotten bigger and better since last season. It's a great opportunity for the youngsters, and I am excited to be part of it, Shreyas Iyer, Captain, SOBO Mumbai Falcons, commented. I will try my best to replicate hitting those five sixes from the first season. I can't say whether I will definitely do it, but I will certainly try my best to repeat it, said Shivam Dube, Captain, Arcs Andheri. The talent sitting here on the podium is exceptional. Mumbai is known for producing great batters over the years. I feel every batter is going to come out hard. We know what's at stake. It's going to be a fierce battle, and we're hoping for the best, said Shardul Thakur, Captain, Eagle Thane Strikers. Obviously, winning the trophy last year was a special moment for all of us. We want to do it again, but we're not focusing too much on the result. I will just try to help my teammates and the youngsters perform to their potential. It's going to be a competitive league. We have to start from zero this year, Siddhesh Lad, Captain, Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals, added. I am a bit more aggressive, while Musheer is calmer. But when it comes to the field, no one is your brother or friend; he will be a rival, Sarfaraz Khan, Captain, Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs said. I am grateful to the team management and owners for giving me the opportunity to captain the side this season. I hope to repay their faith in me. The boys have been practising really well, and we will look to go out there, play hard and enjoy the game, Suved Parkar, Captain, Bandra Blasters, added. Our team has been training really well. Suryakumar Yadav is an experienced player, so the youngsters in the team will learn a lot from him. Hopefully, we will do well, Akhil Herwadkar, Vice-Captain, Triumph Knights Mumbai North East, said. The inaugural edition of the T20 Mumbai Womens League, featuring three teams, will add a new chapter to the leagues history as the women cricketers in the city are set to get a platform to showcase their talent. I think we're really excited for this league, and I feel every team has prepared with the aim of winning the inaugural edition. It's a great opportunity for all the young girls out there to showcase their talent, experience playing in front of packed stadiums, and learn a lot from the experience, Humairaa Kaazi, Captain, Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs, said. In the first season, our main aim will be to play fearless cricket and entertain the crowds as well, Sayali Satghare, Captain, SOBO Mumbai Falcons, said. I think we're really excited for this league, and I feel every team has prepared with the aim of winning the inaugural edition. It's a great opportunity for all the young girls out there to showcase their talent, experience playing in front of packed stadiums, and learn a lot from the experience, Humairaa Kaazi, Captain, Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs, said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The tournament will feature 30 blockbuster matches as the city's best talent battles for T20 supremacy at Mumbai's Wankhede Stadium, with the final scheduled to be held on June 13. All the matches will be live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS
2nd Women's T20I: England Bowlers Shine As India Slump To 26 Runs Defeat, Series Tied 1-1
T20 World Cup: The Indian women's cricket team lost six wickets for 33 runs against a mounting asking rate and went down to England women by 28 runs in the second T20I at the County Ground, Bristol, as the hosts levelled the three-match series 1-1. India had won the first T20I of the series and were looking to seal a 2-0 lead by winning the second match. However, their fine effort with the ball went in vain as they could not back it up with the bat. With spinner Sree Charani picking 3-25, India restricted England women to a modest total of 168/5 in 20 overs, with Freya Kemp blasting an unbeaten 39 towards the end to shore up the score. Chasing 169 to win, the Indians lost regular wickets despite their top-order batters making starts. Shafali Verma (22), Smriti Mandhana (32), Yastika Bhatia (33), and Harmanpreet Kaur (28) made vital contributions as the visitors reached 109/3 at the end of the 15th over. But under pressure to score 60 runs in the last five overs, they succumbed to the mounting asking rate and lost their last six wickets for 33 runs, and were restricted to 142/9 in 20 overs, and fell short by 26 runs. With this win, the series now goes into a deciding third and final T20I with the winner getting a big boost ahead of the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup. Jemimah Rodrigues, the star of India's batting effort alongside Yastika Bhatia in the first match, fell for one, Richa Ghosh contributed eight, Deepti Sharma could manage to score only two runs, while Shreyanka Patil scored six runs off four balls. For England, Lauren Bell (2-33), Charlie Dean (2-20), and Freya Kemp (2-15) grabbed a couple of wickets each while Sophie Ecclestone claimed 1-24 as the host bowlers strangled the Indian batters to make a grand comeback in the series. Earlier, all-rounder Freya Kemps blistering unbeaten 39 off just 13 balls powered England to 168/5 in their 20 overs. After the hosts had an iffy time with the bat on a slow pitch, Freya smashed four boundaries and two sixes in a stunning finishing blitz as 39 runs came off the last two overs to dramatically alter the complexion of Englands innings. For India, left-arm spinner Sree Charani was the standout bowler with 3-25, as she and Shreyanka Patil were superb in never allowing the momentum to slip away, and kept a tight lid on the scoring rate in the middle overs. But India must chase down 169 to clinch a series win and get a big boost in their preparations for the upcoming Womens T20 World Cup. Electing to bat first, England endured a shaky start in the powerplay, managing only 35 runs for the loss of Sophia Dunkley, who was dropped early by Jemimah Rodrigues but later fell to Nandni Sharma for 10. Danni WyattHodge, back from maternity leave, looked fluent with three boundaries but was dismissed for 29 by Charani, who later removed the inform Amy Jones for 28 and accounted for Heather Knight with a sharp return catch. Shreyanka added to Indias tally by castling Alice Capsey for 28. Indias spinners were largely effective, returning 4-94 in 12 overs at an economy of 7.75, compared to the pacers 1-74 in eight overs at 9.25. The innings, however, turned decisively in the final stretch. Freya, entering at number seven, unleashed a stunning assault on Arundhati Reddy in the 20th over, smashing two sixes and two fours to collect 24 runs. Danielle Gibson chipped in with 11 off seven balls, including a boundary, as England ransacked 39 runs from the last two overs 15 of which came off Nandnis final over too. Freyas clean hitting for getting maximums and unleashing crisp drives through the offside ensured England surged past 160, a total that looked improbable midway through the innings and left India on the task of acing a stiff chase. The innings, however, turned decisively in the final stretch. Freya, entering at number seven, unleashed a stunning assault on Arundhati Reddy in the 20th over, smashing two sixes and two fours to collect 24 runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England 168/5 in 20 overs (Freya Kemp 39 not out, Danni Wyatt-Hodge 29; Sree Charani 3-25, Shreyanka Patil 1-29) beat India 142/9 in 20 overs (Yastika Bhatia 33, Smriti Mandhana 32; Freya Kemp 2-15, Charlie Dean 2-20, Lauren Bell 2-33) by 26 runs Article Source: IANS
RCB vs GT Final, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
RCB vs GT Final, Cricket Tips :The Indian Premier League 2026 will host its final match, which will decide the winner of this season. The reigning champion Royal Challengers Bengaluru will take on Gujarat Titans on Sunday at 7:30 PM IST at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. These two teams have been in excellent form. GT are coming off a thumping win over Rajasthan Royals in the qualifier. 2. Captain Shubman Gill slammed a 47-ball ton to take his team into the final. He will be eyeing getting a win here. RCB have been very consistent, but the last time they met GT in Ahmedabad, the game ended in a defeat. So, there is a lot on the line, and both teams will try to lift the trophy. RCB vs GT: Match Details Date : May 31, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad RCB vs GT: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the IPL final on the Star Sports Network and channels. The live stream of the game will be available on the Jio Hotstar app or website. RCB vs GT Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 09 RCB : 05 GT : 04 No - Result : 00 RCB vs GT: Ground Pitch Report The wicket for the final will be same which was used to host the GT vs RCB group game. It was a sporting wicket for the bowlers, and the ball was stopping a bit. The bounce was uneven at times, and spinners were getting good purchase. So, we might see a low-scoring thriller in the final. RCB vs GT Possible XIs RCB : Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar (c), Venkatesh Iyer, Krunal Pandya, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Rasikh Salam Dar GT : Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Nishant Sandhu, Jason Holder, Rashid Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Kagiso Rabada, Prasidh Krishna, Mohammed Siraj RCB vs GT Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Rajat Patidar and Shubman Gill will be key batters for their respective teams. They will look to take their team to glory. Probable Best Bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar has been superb for RCB, and Kagiso Rabada is in wicket-taking form for GT. These two are in a race for the Purple Cap and will have a big role for their teams. Today Match Prediction : GT have an excellent bowling unit, but RCB have firepower with the bat. Hence, we predict RCB to win the final. RCB vs GT Final, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, RCB vs GT 2026 Prediction, RCB vs GT Predicted XIs, Injury Update for RCB vs GT Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
IPL 2026: Gill Hails Sudharsans Intensity, Targets Second Title With Gujarat Titans
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Gujarat Titans captain Shubman Gill credited his opening partner Sai Sudharsans unwavering intensity and consistency as one of the biggest strengths behind the teams success, as the 2022 winners prepare to face Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the title clash to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. GT enters a final at its home venue after beating Rajasthan Royals by seven wickets in Qualifier 2 in New Chandigarh, where Gill hit a majestic 104 and shared a 167-run opening stand with Sudharsan, who hit 58. I think in a tournament like IPL, when I first started playing, one of the challenges that I faced was to keep playing the matches at the same intensity, and I think that is one of his (Sudharsans) biggest strengths. You play so many matches there could be days where mentally you dont feel up to the mark or physically you dont feel up to the mark, but to be able to have the same intensity in all of the matches and be consistent in your preparation (and) in your routine is not that easy. He is someone who is very consistent in his routines, in his life outside of cricket... so that is what makes him consistent on the field as well, said Gill in the pre-final press conference. Sudharsan has crossed the 700run mark for the second successive season, forming a prolific partnership with Gill that has already produced 886 runs in IPL 2026. Another stand, especially if it crosses 54 runs in the final, would take them past the record set by Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers in 2016. We spend a lot of time in the IPL together on the field, off the field as well, and then we are in the Test team as well, so we have a lot of conversations. There are things that we talk about cricket, and outside of cricket. But I think there are many players in our team who also play for the country, and hopefully we are going to play together for a long period of time, and its very important for us to know each other well to have a great equation that automatically translates to onfield performances, added Gill. Gill also pointed to the importance of batting fundamentals in T20 cricket despite the rise in high scores this season. Sometimes the wicket tends to be a bit on the slower side. Then it is important to hit the gaps, still look to run well, because I think that is the foundation of any format you are playing. The team that plays less number of dot balls has a better chance of getting a better score, so yes, the T20 game has evolved, you see bigger scores, but the wickets have also gone a little bit flatter. I think that not many people talk about this. Before these two new teams (GT & LSG were added to the league in 2022), there used to be eight teams, and we used to play on similar wickets. (But)] Back in the day, in the second half of the IPL, we used to see 150, 160, 140 scores a lot more, in Eden Gardens and even in Bombay. In some of the venues now, because at least four or five times in a season, we get a fiveday break or a sevenday break, which gives the chance to play on fresh wickets, better wickets. So I feel cricket is the same, its all about the kind of wickets that we play on, the kind of grounds that we play on... If we play on challenging wickets, the scores are going to be similar, maybe a 510 runs difference here and there, but still I feel that cricket is pretty much similar, he explained. Gill himself has adapted to the demands of the format, raising his powerplay strike rate from 143 last season to 159 this year, making his credentials to re-enter the India T20I team strong. I mean, Id be happy to play if I get picked for the T20 team, but honestly, I want to keep working on my game. It doesnt matter what format it is. I want to keep getting better as a T20 batsman, as an ODI batsman, as a Test batsman... cricket is such a game you can never really get perfect, but obviously you can strive for it, and thats what I try to do. Gill himself has adapted to the demands of the format, raising his powerplay strike rate from 143 last season to 159 this year, making his credentials to re-enter the India T20I team strong. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Honestly, I dont really get the burden of expectations. Obviously, there are advantages, thats how I see it. Theres familiarity when we play there, we know the wicket, we know the ground, so we know what kind of cricket we need to play there to be able to win, so in that context, yes, I see it as an advantage because theres a little bit of familiarity. Article Source: IANS
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar brushed aside questions about a potential return to Indias T20I setup, insisting his focus remains firmly on guiding the franchise to successive IPL titles as they prepare to face Gujarat Titans in the final to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Sunday. Im not looking forward to any selection regarding India. So, Im not looking forward to it. I dont see myself as the T20 captain of India. But at the same time, every captain wants to win the trophies. So last year we did it, but again its a new season. You cannot keep talking about 2025, what we have done. You have to be more in the present and do whatever best you can to win the title. What has changed from last year? To be honest, I dont think we have changed anything, said Patidar in the pre-final press conference. Patidar, who has scored 486 runs in 14 matches this season, emphasised that RCBs success has stemmed from a collective mindset rather than reliance on individual stars, as seen from them having eight different winners of the Player of the Match award in the season. Before, there were just one or two players the team depended on. But my observation is that every player takes responsibility when he is going to bat or when he is bowling. So I think responsibility is the main word that every individual is thinking about. So, responsibility and keenness to do for the team and having the same mindset that we are not here to just play qualifiers and all. We are here to play the finals and win the finals. So I think this mindset has changed. Every captain wants to win trophies. We did it last year, but this is a different season. You cannot keep talking about what happened in 2025. We have to stay in the present and do whatever we can to win the title this year, he added. Patidar also underlined the importance of RCBs bowling depth, with Bhuvneshwar Kumar leading the way with 26 wickets this season. If you want to win this competition, you need a good bowling attack. It is important to take wickets because these days it is easy to score 200 or 220. But defending those totals is more difficult, so you need a better bowling side. Both teams have the same strength in that regard. The way both teams have bowled throughout the tournament has been outstanding. When you have top bowlers like Bhuvi and Hazlewood, you still need support from the other bowlers as well. The way Rasikh has come in and contributed to the team, providing those breakthroughs, has been important. You cannot win a competition or a match with just one or two bowlers. The way Rasikh has bowled throughout the tournament has been superb, and it has really helped the team. Both teams have the same strength in that regard. The way both teams have bowled throughout the tournament has been outstanding. When you have top bowlers like Bhuvi and Hazlewood, you still need support from the other bowlers as well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Both teams have done really well throughout the tournament. It will be exciting and challenging for both teams. It is important to know your strength. You cannot compare yourself with other teams. It is more important to focus on your team and how you play throughout the tournament. According to me, it is more important to play to our strength. Article Source: IANS
Akasa Air has launched special match-day flights between Mumbai, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad for the IPL 2026 final between the Gujarat Titans and the Royal Challengers Bengaluru on May 31.
2nd WT20I: Kemps Late Fireworks Lift England To 168/5 Against India, Charani Picks Three-for
T20 World Cup: All-rounder Freya Kemps blistering unbeaten 39 off just 13 balls powered England to 168/5 in their 20 overs against India in the second Womens T20I at the County Ground on Saturday. After the hosts had an iffy time with the bat on a slow pitch, Freya smashed four boundaries and two sixes in a stunning finishing blitz as 39 runs came off the last two overs to dramatically alter the complexion of Englands innings. For India, left-arm spinner Sree Charani was the standout bowler with 3-25, as she and Shreyanka Patil were superb in never allowing the momentum to slip away, and kept a tight lid on the scoring rate in the middle overs. But India must chase down 169 to clinch a series win and get a big boost in their preparations for the upcoming Womens T20 World Cup. Electing to bat first, England endured a shaky start in the Power-play, managing only 35 runs for the loss of Sophia Dunkley, who was dropped early by Jemimah Rodrigues but later fell to Nandni Sharma for 10. Danni WyattHodge, back from maternity leave, looked fluent with three boundaries but was dismissed for 29 by Charani, who later removed the inform Amy Jones for 28 and accounted for Heather Knight with a sharp return catch. Shreyanka added to Indias tally by castling Alice Capsey for 28. Indias spinners were largely effective, returning 4-94 in 12 overs at an economy of 7.75, compared to the pacers 1-74 in eight overs at 9.25. The innings, however, turned decisively in the final stretch. Freya, entering at number seven, unleashed a stunning assault on Arundhati Reddy in the 20th over, smashing two sixes and two fours to collect 24 runs. Shreyanka added to Indias tally by castling Alice Capsey for 28. Indias spinners were largely effective, returning 4-94 in 12 overs at an economy of 7.75, compared to the pacers 1-74 in eight overs at 9.25. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: England 168/5 in 20 overs (Freya Kemp 39 not out, Danni Wyatt-Hodge 29; Sree Charani 3-25, Shreyanka Patil 1-29) against India Article Source: IANS
Indian Premier League: Former India cricketer and national selector Jatin Paranjape believes the result of Sunday's IPL 2026 final between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans in Ahmedabad hinges on one question - can Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Josh Hazlewood break the Shubman Gill-Sai Sudharsan partnership before it takes the game away from RCB? The Gill-Sudharsan opening pair has been the most dominant partnership in IPL 2026 they have amassed 886 runs together at an average of 63.3 and a strike rate of 177, the highest aggregate by any opening combination in this season. The success of that partnership has a near-binary effect on GT's results. When the two bat past the fifth over together, GT have won six of seven games. When the stand is broken before that point, they have won four and lost as many games. The bottom line is simple GT becomes beatable the moment their openers are separated early. As per statistics, Bhuvneshwar is the bowler best equipped to do the damage. He has dismissed Gill six times in 14 IPL innings, including twice this season. Hazlewood, meanwhile, has dismissed Sudharsan twice in two IPL innings this season. Bhuvneshwar (26 wickets) currently trails Kagiso Rabada (28 wickets) in the Purple Cap race, and should the former finish as the tournament's leading wicket-taker, he would become the first bowler in IPL history to win the Purple Cap three times after having previously claimed it in 2016 and 2017. The key player battles are Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Hazlewood versus Sai Sudarshan and Shubman Gill, because Gill and Sudarshan have been the most successful opening pair this year in the IPL, and if RCB can price them out earlier, the game could split wide open, Paranjape said in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Saturday. At the same time, RCBs top order will face a stern test against GTs inform newball pair of Rabada and Mohammed Siraj, whose availability after picking up a shoulder issue will be keenly watched. Rabada has enjoyed success against Virat Kohli in T20s, dismissing him five times in 17 innings. Siraj, meanwhile, has troubled Devdutt Padikkal, removing him three times in eight IPL innings. While the powerplay battle is a major tactical subplot in deciding who wins their second IPL title, Paranjape believes winning the final carries a deeper significance for both teams - particularly for Gill, whos been on song in his more attacking and determined avatar, especially after being omitted from Indias victorious T20 World Cup campaign in December last year. I think the significance of this final is very critical for both teams. For RCB, it will mean that they will have won the title a second year in a row, so it could be the start of a streak of dominance for them. For the Gujarat Titans, they won it last in 2022, I think, if I'm not mistaken, and they lost a close final to CSK (in 2023). But I think more than for the Gujarat Titans, the significance will be more for Shubman Gill, because he's the captain of India in two formats. And as captain of India, you want to win the biggest T20 tournament in the world as well, because I'm sure he would like to captain India in T20 cricket as well. So for RCB, it's more a team significance. For the Gujarat Titans, it's team plus slightly significant for the captain as an individual as well, he elaborated. Gill, who hit a majestic 104 in the Qualifier 2 victory over Rajasthan Royals, arrives at this final as GT's most prolific scorer in Ahmedabad in IPL history - 1,374 runs in 31 innings at an average of 49.1. But against RCB, his numbers dip sharply: 395 runs at an average of just 28.2 - his lowest against any IPL opponent. Three of his last five innings against RCB have yielded single-digit scores, including two ducks. History says the Qualifier 1 winner has gone on to lift the IPL trophy every year since 2018. RCB won that game this time around, after beating GT by 92 runs in Dharamshala. Gill, who hit a majestic 104 in the Qualifier 2 victory over Rajasthan Royals, arrives at this final as GT's most prolific scorer in Ahmedabad in IPL history - 1,374 runs in 31 innings at an average of 49.1. But against RCB, his numbers dip sharply: 395 runs at an average of just 28.2 - his lowest against any IPL opponent. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS
Patidar: Mindset is the same as last year's final
Patidar is one win away from being the third man to defend IPL titles As captain
Storm delays Gujarat Titans' arrival in Ahmedabad for IPL final
GT are likely to arrive in Ahmedabad only after 10pm on Friday, before they head to their hotel in Gandhinagar, another 30-minute drive away
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Home comfort vs championship pedigree as GT and RCB collide in IPL 2026 final
Although RCB won Qualifier 1, it was GT who were victors when they faced off in Ahmedabad during the league stage
2nd Women's T20I: Wyatt-Hodge Hoping To smash Indian Bowlers After Returning From Maternity Leave
Danni Wyatt: England opener Danni WyattHodge said she is hoping to smash Indian bowlers on her return to cricketing action from maternity leave as the hosts prepare to face India in the second womens T20I in Bristol on Saturday. Danni returns after taking time off from the T20I series against New Zealand and the first T20I against India to welcome her daughter, Daisy, with partner Georgie Wyatt-Hodge. Her return to action comes at a time when England are 1-0 behind in the three-game series. Ive had a lot of cricket over the last few months, with lots of England camps. For me, it's all about being mentally ready. I've played a lot of cricket over the years, and it's all about being calm. I've played a lot of international cricket, and you learn what works for you. For me, it's just staying calm and trusting what I've done in the past, trusting my instincts that I'm going to go out there and hopefully smash the Indian bowlers to my areas and don't miss out on my strengths, said Danni in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Former England pacer Tash Farrant feels Dannis return will bring calm energy to a frenetic batting line-up. Its a huge lift. We know what she can do with the bat; she takes it on from ball one and can run between the wickets. Its the energy she brings. Englands batters are a little bit on edge, so she will just calm the nerves. The batting line-up is the biggest uncertainty ahead of the World Cup. It is a huge boost that Wyatt-Hodge is back, and I like the batting depth today. But I don't like how many changes there have been recently and that we don't quite know what the batting line-up is going to be. England have also brought back left-arm spinner Linsey Smith into the line-up, and Tash is hoping her not playing the first game against India doesnt become a factor in halting her momentum. The batting line-up is the biggest uncertainty ahead of the World Cup. It is a huge boost that Wyatt-Hodge is back, and I like the batting depth today. But I don't like how many changes there have been recently and that we don't quite know what the batting line-up is going to be. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England really missed her in the last game. You know exactly what youre going to get from here. I hope missing the first game against India hasnt halted the momentum shes been building. Article Source: IANS
2nd Women's T20I: Harmanpreet, Shreyanka Return As England Elect To Bat First Against India
Harmanpreet Kaur: England won the toss and elected to bat first in the second womens T20I against India on Saturday, with skipper Harmanpreet Kaur and off-spin bowling all-rounder Shreyanka Patil returning to boost the visitors lineup. India are leading the three-game series 1-0 after winning the series opener by 38 runs in Chelmsford. Harmanpreet, who missed the clash due to a calf niggle, replaces Bharti Fulmali, while Shreyanka comes in place of Kranti Gaud. We were looking to bat too, but I think the pitch looks drier and we have added one more spinner today (in Shreyanka). So hopefully, we'll try to stop them on a decent total so that we can chase it easier. Both batting and bowling (were enjoyable in the first game), because the way we batted really set the tone for us. Hopefully, we'll continue that approach while batting. The bowling is also something, we always talk about taking wickets in the powerplay and then keep putting pressure on the batters. I think our bowlers did a really great job, and a great contribution by the fielders. So hopefully we'll play a similar kind of cricket today also. The way Jemimah and Yastika batted, it was very good to see them taking the responsibility and using the Power-play. Hopefully, today we'll also go with the same approach. Yes, definitely. I think we are all looking quite positive and trying to do whatever the team demands from us. Hopefully, we'll keep enjoying and keep giving our best whenever we are playing, she said. Stand-in England captain Charlie Dean said veteran opener Danny Wyatt-Hodge is back from maternity leave, while left-arm spinner Linsey Smith also returns, with Issy Wong and Tilly Corteen-Coleman omitted from the playing eleven. Feels like a good day to get out there as a team, and it looks like a bit of a belter, so ready to get going. There were lots of positives from that game. Obviously, (losing) by that sort of margin was disappointing towards the end. We were in a brilliant position with both bat and ball at sort of the halfway stage. So it feels like we need to be really ruthless and be clear on what we need to do towards the back end of our innings. So, it looks like a good opportunity today to put that right. Its brilliant to have her back. Really looking forward to seeing Danni bat today. She brings a wealth of experience to our team, fresh as a mother, but ready to get going, she said. Playing XIs: So it feels like we need to be really ruthless and be clear on what we need to do towards the back end of our innings. So, it looks like a good opportunity today to put that right. Its brilliant to have her back. Really looking forward to seeing Danni bat today. She brings a wealth of experience to our team, fresh as a mother, but ready to get going, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England: Danni Wyatt-Hodge, Sophia Dunkley, Amy Jones (wk), Alice Capsey, Heather Knight, Freya Kemp, Danielle Gibson, Charlie Dean (captain), Sophie Ecclestone, Linsey Smith, and Lauren Bell Article Source: IANS
England bat first in bid to square series in Bristol
Teams ring the changes as preparation for T20 World Cup hots up
Eagle Thane Strikers Appoint Shardul Thakur As Captain For 2026 Edition Of T20 Mumbai League
The Eagle Thane Strikers: Eagle Thane Strikers have announced India all-rounder Shardul Thakur as captain for the upcoming edition of the T20 Mumbai League 2026, starting on June 1. One of Mumbai crickets most accomplished performers, Shardul Thakur, brings a wealth of experience to the leadership role, having represented India across formats and played a key role in several domestic and franchise competitions. The appointment reflects the franchises ambition to build on last seasons semifinal finish and mount a strong challenge for the title this year. The Eagle Thane Strikers will head into the tournament with a balanced squad comprising experienced campaigners and exciting young talent. Under the guidance of newly-appointed head coach Dhawal Kulkarni, the team will look to play an aggressive brand of cricket and take the next step after narrowly missing out on a place in the final during the previous edition. Expressing his delight after being named captain, Shardul Thakur said, It is an honour to lead Eagle Thane Strikers in the T20 Mumbai League. We have a talented group of players and a coaching staff with tremendous experience. The focus will be on preparing well, playing positive cricket, and giving our best in every game. We want to create a winning culture and make our fans proud. Speaking about the appointment, Eagle Thane Strikers owner Vicky Rupchandani said, Shardul is a proven match-winner and a respected leader who understands Mumbai cricket exceptionally well. His experience at the highest level will be invaluable for the team. We are confident that under his leadership and with Dhawal Kulkarni guiding the side as Head Coach, the team can have a memorable season. The T20 Mumbai League 2026 is scheduled to be held from June 1 to 13, with Eagle Thane Strikers set to begin their campaign against Bandra Blasters in the opening fixture of the tournament. Speaking about the appointment, Eagle Thane Strikers owner Vicky Rupchandani said, Shardul is a proven match-winner and a respected leader who understands Mumbai cricket exceptionally well. His experience at the highest level will be invaluable for the team. We are confident that under his leadership and with Dhawal Kulkarni guiding the side as Head Coach, the team can have a memorable season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Aditya Vinod Giri, Amartya Raje, Anuj Vinod Giri, Atharav Ankolekar, Ayaan Mohit Jain, Eknath Dinesh Kerkar, Kartik Mithilesh Mishra, Manan Bhat, Onkar Tukaram Tarmale, Rohan Rajendra Ghag, Sairaj Patil, Shardul Thakur (Captain), Shashikant Eknath Kadam, Shashwat Yogesh Jagtap, Shaun Motiram Rodrigues, Shivansh Lallan Singh, Siddhant Manoj Singh, Sumeir Samrat Zaveri, Vinay Suresh Kunwar, and Dhanay Parekh. Article Source: IANS
