Ranji Trophy: Services stages recovery via Paliwals unbeaten ton
Sarfaraz Khan: The only person who supported me was my father, nobody else
Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Ritesh and Shikhar do it for Karnataka
The visitor bowls out Assam for 135 before reaching 180 for two
Ranji Trophy: Late strikes help Railways keep Mumbai in check on day one
The home team claims three wickets in the final session to reduce the heavyweight to 247 for six at close; Raghuvanshi and Safrfaraz score half-centuries
Harsh Dubeys nine-wicket haul helps Vidarbha spin out Madhya Pradesh for 209
Ranji Trophy: Bengal batters come a cropper on a truncated opening day
The host is skittled out for 143 as Maharashtra bowlers Dadhe, Sanghavi, Hangargekar and Veer hit the right areas to strike consistently; Shami impresses with a late burst
Why Should I Work Hard? Sarfaraz Khan Airs Frustration After Prolonged Wait For India Recall
Why should I work hard? Middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan on Monday sounded bitter after improved fitness and consistent runs in domestic cricket failed to secure him a return to the Indian Test team.
Ranji Trophy: Railways Stage Dramatic Fightback Vs Mumbai
Railways staged a strong comeback on Day One of their Ranji Trophy Group D clash against Mumbai, taking three quick wickets late in the day to leave Mumbai at 247/6 at stumps. Mumbai had built a strong foundation with Angkrish Raghuvanshi scoring 78 and Sarfaraz Khan adding 55, but Himanshu Sangwan and Adarsh Singh led the Railways' fightback.
Ranji Trophy: Dubey Picks Nine Scalps As Vidarbha Bowl Out Madhya Pradesh For 209
For Central Zone: Left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey rewrote the Vidarbha record books on Monday by claiming 9-53 to bowl out Madhya Pradesh for 209 on an eventful opening day of their Ranji Trophy match at the VCA Stadium in Jamtha. Dubey became the first bowler from Vidarbha to claim a nine-wicket haul in an innings of the Ranji Trophy. The previous best figures for the side was Arun Ogirals 8-39 in 1967-68, which ironically came against Madhya Pradesh. Dubey is now the 30th bowler overall to take nine or more wickets in an innings in the Ranji Trophy. It was Vidarbha all-rounder Nachiket Bhute, though, who made the first breakthrough by removing opener Yash Dubey. From there onwards, the innings belonged to Harsh. He opened his account in the 17th over and kept chipping away, leaving Madhya Pradesh at 64/5 in the 29th over. Atharva Mahajan and Saransh Jain resisted with a 72-run stand. It lasted nearly 18 overs before Dubey returned to break it, and the lower order did not survive long after that. The last nine-wicket haul in the Ranji Trophy came from Gujarats left-arm spinner Siddharth Desai, who took 9-36 against Uttarakhand in 2024-25. Mondays spell adds to a big year for Dubey, who made his ODI debut against Afghanistan in June and took four wickets in two matches. He then toured Sri Lanka with India A, taking three wickets and scoring 59 runs across two innings. For Central Zone in the Duleep Trophy, he took eight wickets and made 27 and 24 against East Zone. He has carried that form into the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season, with 23 wickets in seven innings so far. Elsewhere, Karnatakas Ritesh Bhatkal (5-35) and Shikhar Shetty (5-53) shared 10 wickets to bowl Assam out for 135 inside 49 overs in Guwahati. Rohan Patil then hit 89 off 87 balls, with 13 fours and a six, and added 129 for the opening wicket with Mayank Agarwal, who was unbeaten on 57, as Karnataka got a 45-run lead. In Dharamsala, 20 wickets fell on the opening day. Rajasthan chose to bat and were shot out for 78, with Abhishek Kumar taking five wickets for Himachal Pradesh. Sahil Dhiwan replied with a five-wicket haul for Rajasthan, but Himachal still made 153 for a lead of 75. Mayank Mishra took 6-57 as Uttarakhand bowled out Haryana for 153 after they elected to bat. In Chandigarh, Pradosh Ranjan Pauls unbeaten 138 powered Tamil Nadu to 320/4 against the hosts. N Jagadeesan (52) and Baba Indrajith (51) also scored fifties. Punjab recovered from 71/5 to reach 276/5 against Andhra, thanks to an unbroken 205-run stand for the sixth wicket between Salil Arora (111 not out) and Sanvir Singh (100 not out). In Ahmedabad, Aarya Desai fell five short of a century as Gujarat crossed 300 against Kerala. He added 116 with Abhishek Desai, and after Gujarat slipped to 182/4, Urvil Patel (63 not out) and Vishal Jayswal (50 not out) put on an unbeaten 111-run stand. Opener Dhruv Patel made 124 to lift Baroda to 269/6 in Kanpur. He added 88 with Shashwat Rawat (47) and 108 with Mitesh Patel (49) after Baroda were 54/2. His dismissal set off a late wobble, with three wickets falling on 249 in four deliveries across two overs. Services captain Rajat Paliwal came in at number five with his side at 27/3 and made an unbeaten 111 to take them to 266 in 88 overs against Delhi at Palam. Snehal Kauthankars unbeaten 116 rescued Goa from 54/4 after they chose to bat against Bihar at home, as they ended day one at 288/6 in 87 overs. At the CCI in Mumbai, Angkrish Raghuvanshi (78) and Sarfaraz Khan (55) struck half-centuries and captain Siddesh Lad made 47 as Mumbai reached 247/6 in 83 overs after being put in by Railways. Sridam Pauls 86 led Tripuras fightback against Saurashtra as the hosts reached 219/7 at stumps at the MBB Stadium. Put in to bat after Saurashtra won the toss, Tripura slumped to 28/5 inside 19 overs. Paul then added 125 for the sixth wicket with wicketkeeper-batter Sentu Sarkar, who made 46. Manisankar Murasingh (33) and Bikram Debnath (32) were unbeaten at the close, after Tripura had batted 74.3 overs. Parth Bhut was the pick of the Saurashtra bowlers with 3-52 in 19 overs, including two maidens. Chetan Sakariya took two wickets, while Yuvraj Dodiya and Sammar Gajjar claimed one each. Sridam Pauls 86 led Tripuras fightback against Saurashtra as the hosts reached 219/7 at stumps at the MBB Stadium. Put in to bat after Saurashtra won the toss, Tripura slumped to 28/5 inside 19 overs. Paul then added 125 for the sixth wicket with wicketkeeper-batter Sentu Sarkar, who made 46. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India Face Resurgent New Zealand After T20I Setback
A clean sweep in New Zealand would have been a significant statement. Now, India's ODI team will have to deliver that statement, points out K R Nayar.
IPL 2027 retention deadline moved to November 17
The retention deadline was earlier supposed to be on November 15
Ireland Batter Rebecca Stokell Accepts Voluntary Suspension Over Anti-doping Breach
The International Cricket Council: Ireland womens batter Rebecca Stokell has accepted a voluntary suspension after admitting to an anti-doping rule violation linked to her use of prescription medication. Rebecca is now awaiting the outcome of an International Cricket Council (ICC) investigation. Rebecca has accepted responsibility for an inadvertent breach of the reporting requirements around the use of prescription medication. While the breach was unintentional and the substance has been acknowledged as non-performance enhancing, she has admitted that she did not comply with the regulations and accepts that she is likely to be suspended from the game. The sample was collected during an in-competition test on June 23, and her suspension has been in effect since October 23. Any sanction will be decided once the ICCs disciplinary process has run its course. The International Cricket Council has announced that Ireland batter Rebecca Stokell has been notified of an alleged anti-doping rule violation after a sample she provided during an in-competition test on 23 June 2026 returned an adverse finding for a Specified Substance. Following receipt of the notification, Ms Stokell has admitted the violation (which arose from her use of prescription medication) and accepted a voluntary suspension effective 23 October 2026 pending the outcome of the disciplinary process. The ICC will not make any further comment until the matter is finally resolved, said the ICC in a statement on Monday. On her part, Rebecca, who has played 29 ODIs and 80 T20Is, said she had accepted her error and hoped to return soon. I fully accept my mistake and have voluntarily entered into a period of suspension ahead of the findings being returned. While this was not performance related in any way, I understand that I am responsible for following the Anti-Doping Guidelines and I hope that I can be back playing for Ireland as soon as possible, she said in a statement by Cricket Ireland. Cricket Ireland said it has stood by Rebecca, but said the case carried a message for the rest of its squad. While we feel very sorry for Rebecca and have provided the level of support appropriate in these circumstances, this incident does serve as a reminder to all our international players that the Anti-Doping Rules are in place to protect both the sport and the athletes themselves. While this was not performance related in any way, I understand that I am responsible for following the Anti-Doping Guidelines and I hope that I can be back playing for Ireland as soon as possible, she said in a statement by Cricket Ireland. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ranji Trophy: Urvil and Vishal boost Gujarat
The two carry the host to 300 for five as Kerala squanders advantage on the opening day
'Only for Home Tests?' Sarfaraz Khan Opens Up on India Snub
Middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan has claimed that the Indian team is considering him only for Test matches played at home, despite his strong performances in intra-squad matches abroad. He expressed perplexity over his non-inclusion in away tour squads.
Inexperienced Pace Attack Leaves India In Spot Of Bother For New Zealand ODIs
The Indian team think tank will have to grapple with the collective inexperience of bowlers Gurnoor Brar, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi and Yash Thakur, who have played a total of just 11 ODIs among them, as the visitors take on a very sorted New Zealand side.
Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Anuj and Vikalp hold strong after Hyderabad strikes early
The Chhattisgarh duos 93-run partnership puts the team in control after Milind & Co. have the side reeling at 94 for four; the opener gets two reprieves in his 133-ball 72
South Africa batting coach Ashwell Prince and player Kyle Verreynne have been handed official reprimands for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct on the third day of the third Test against Australia in Cape Town.
Harshit Rana picked in India A squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup
Tilak Varma leads a star-studded 50-over squad which includes Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Just 11 ODIs Between Them! India's Bowling Gamble In NZ
The Indian cricket team faces a significant challenge in their upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand, with a largely inexperienced bowling attack featuring Gurnoor Brar, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, and Yash Thakur, who collectively have played only 11 ODIs.
India Unleash Abhishek, Sooryavanshi for Rising Stars Asia Cup
India A has announced a 15-member squad for the ACC Men's Rising Stars Asia Cup in Doha, featuring Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Tilak Varma will captain the side, with Rajat Patidar as his deputy. The tournament runs from November 19 to 29, with India A placed in Group B alongside Pakistan A, Nepal, and UAE.
Spinner Harsh Dubey's sensational spell of nine for 53 headlined a dramatic opening day as 14 wickets fell in the Elite Group A Ranji Trophy clash between Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha, with the hosts struggling at 56 for four after bowling out the visitors for 209.
Ranji Trophy: Vidarbha's Dubey Shreds MP With Nine-Wicket Haul
Spinner Harsh Dubey delivered a sensational spell of nine for 53, headlining a dramatic opening day in the Elite Group A Ranji Trophy clash between Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha in Nagpur. Madhya Pradesh were bowled out for 209, with Atharva Mahajan scoring 85. In response, Vidarbha struggled, ending the day at 56 for four, trailing by 153 runs, as Kumar Kartikeya picked up three wickets for Madhya Pradesh.
India's Squad For Asia Cup Rising Stars: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma Included
The Men's Selection Committee has picked the India A squad for the upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Men's Rising Stars Asia Cup to be held in Doha, Qatar, from November 19 to 29, 2026
India A squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026 announced, Tilak Varma named captain
The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) came forward and announced India As squad for the upcoming edition of the ACC Mens Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026. The tournament will be held in...
Tilak to lead India A in 2026 Rising Stars Asia Cup in Doha, Patidar named vice-captain
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) T20I vice-captain Tilak Varma will captain India A at the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Mens Rising Stars Asia Cup with two-time IPL winning skipper Rajat Patidar named as his deputy in the 15-member squad picked by the mens selection committee. The tournament will run from November 19 to 29 in Doha, Qatar. Prabhsimran Singh and Kumar Kushagra are the two wicketkeepers in a squad that also includes Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Rinku Singh, Prince Yadav, Suryansh Shedge, Shahbaz Ahmed and Harsh Dubey. Seam-bowling all-rounder Harshit Rana, who has been recovering from a rectus femoris strain while bowling during a match simulation at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) on September 7, after initially reporting there for hamstring injury rehab, has been named in the squad. Other members who complete the squad include Tanush Kotian, Vipraj Nigam, and Arshad Khan. It also means that the aforementioned players will miss a large part of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy for their respective states. The squad for the upcoming tournament marks a sweeping change from the 2025 India A side who took part in the previous edition of the competition in Doha. Tilak and Patidar take over the leadership duties from Jitesh Sharma and Naman Dhir, who were captain and vice-captain last year. Sooryavanshi, Shedge, and Dubey are the only retained from the 2025 squad, while the omissions are Jitesh, Dhir, Priyansh Arya, Abishek Porel, Ashutosh Sharma, Nehal Wadhera, Ramandeep Singh, Suyash Sharma, Gurjapneet Singh, Yudhvir Singh, Yash Thakur and Vijaykumar Vyshak. India A have been drawn in Group B with the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Nepal and Pakistan A. Group A features Bangladesh A, Sri Lanka A, Afghanistan A and Hong Kong, China. India A will open their campaign against Nepal on November 20, at the West End Park International Stadium. They will take on Pakistan A at the same venue on November 22, before ending the group stage against the UAE at the University of Doha for Science and Technology on November 24. Top two sides from each group will qualify for the semi-finals, to be played on November 26 and 27 respectively. The final is scheduled to be played on November 29. India A squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup: Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Tilak Varma (captain), Rajat Patidar (vice-captain), Rinku Singh, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Suryansh Shedge, Shahbaz Ahmed, Vipraj Nigam, Harsh Dubey, Tanush Kotian, Harshit Rana, Prince Yadav, and Arshad Khan
Surprised Kuldeep Yadav Didnt Get To Play In Five T20Is Against NZ, Says Venkatapathy Raju
Surprised Kuldeep Yadav: Former India left-arm spinner Venkatapathy Raju said he was surprised that wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav did not get a game in the recently concluded five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which the visitors won 3-2, and urged the team management to give him more game time ahead of next years ODI World Cup. India has played 35 matches in SENA countries in the last 24 months under the current team management, and Kuldeep has featured in only three games. Its surprising. We are all former cricketers who sit here. We do commentary and then we have our own interactions. When you take Kuldeep, why are you not making him play? We all know wrist spinners are such an asset in white-ball cricket, right? And then, when you have him in all three formats and sitting on the bench, its quite surprising. Or you allow him to go play domestic cricket. Because any spinner might be wrist, left-arm, whatever the more matches they play, the more control they have. Because now we are already seeing New Zealand team batters, or any batter who is playing against India, they just attack nowadays because now we dont have the variations. The skill is there, but the variations are lacking in the present set-up. Thats why I think Kuldeep has to be given more and more chances. Because we are trying with different medium-fast bowlers. But then, I think they are lacking that experience. So, I think if you pick Kuldeep, he should be playing. We might lose a couple of matches. But then, bowling in those tight situations in international games, he can be one of those guys who can adjust. Because he is hardly playing any domestic cricket and then he is hardly playing any international cricket. So, for me, as a spinner, I feel very surprised that he has not been put in and did not to find a game in five T20s, especially after the series was won, Raju told IANS in a select virtual interaction facilitated by Sony Sports Network, ahead of the India-New Zealand ODI series starting on Wednesday. Taking note of head coach Gauta Gambhirs remark that he was not there to please everyone, Raju felt the team management was not being asked to please anyone, but to make full use of its match-winners. Raju, who has also served as a national selector, questioned why Kuldeep continued to be picked across formats without getting any game time. Even now, sometimes we feel really surprised. Why is Kuldeep there in the team? We all know he is such a brilliant bowler, and he hardly gets to play. But they pick him in all three formats T20s, 50s and Test matches. But then, he hardly plays, because the wrist spinner plays a very important role. We all know that, right? Then he has to be playing more games to be match-fit. So, experience-wise, we dont have to bother about (Virat) Kohli or Rohit (Sharma) as long as they are fit enough, they are always an asset for a team. Raju further stated the lack of quality spin-bowling have cost India in pursuit of defending totals, even as the side chased well in the T20Is in New Zealand. The only concern for me is the all-rounders, again because what we have seen in T20s in New Zealand, we were very good chasers. But of late, we have not been able to restrict, right? We are not able to restrict teams when we put a total on board. We are not able to restrict that because of the lack of good-quality spinners. Asked about Axar Patel, who was expensive for much of the T20I series, Raju said the all-rounder needed to rediscover his variations and lacked having a wicket-taking partner at the other end. Axar has been there for a long time. He has been the main all-rounder for us. But then, T20s you cant say much about T20s. But in 50 overs, it is that extra overs where you have to bowl. So, he is a very big asset. But of late, those variations are missing a bit from his bowling. The moment he sorts that out quickly (is important) because we all know about his fielding, and capability with the bat. But then, of late, we dont have those spin twins like Chahal or Kuldeep. When they were there, they were match-winners on their own, right? But now, Axar doesnt have much support. When we add Ashwin or somebody else, their combination was brilliant, like Jadeja and Ashwin. I think Axar also needs a wicket-taking bowler in between, which we are lacking in. He also knows that he is a very important and key player in any set-up, whether he is playing Test matches, 50 overs or T20 games. He is a very crucial figure, because we are going for all-rounders. Then, there are a lot of guys who are injured, somebody like Washington Sundar and all. Most of them are on the injury list. So, Axar has to pull up his socks and take that responsibility, he elaborated. With Ravindra Jadeja not picked in the ODI side since the series against the West Indies, Raju said it appeared India had moved on from him. It looks like, because we have Axar Patel. If you see the similarities between Jadeja and Axar, right? Both are brilliant fielders. Both of them can contribute with the bat. But then, the bowling part slowly, we are seeing little of that rushness in Axars bowling, right? So, again, if you see the 2011 World Cup, you had Sachin Tendulkar, right? Then players like Laxman and all these guys were already turning into 30s 38, 39. So, I think they made a brilliant call by having one or two experienced players and then there were a lot of young guys who had the experience of playing more than 75 ODI games. So, I think now the time has come where you have to really, really find those people who are going to play find those players who play more games. Raju also said the experience of batting stalwarts Rohit and Kohli was not a concern, and the two should play as many matches as possible before the ODI World Cup takes place in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 2 to November 21, 2027. Because if you see, we never had many all-rounders in T20s, and there was not much experience in this bowling line-up. But, like, we are talking about the World Cup coming in then, mostly, people will talk about Virat and Rohit, right? Like, we need a lot of experience when you play outside India and these guys have been there. They play only one format nowadays. So, probably they should be playing as many matches as possible till the World Cup comes in. For Rohit and Kohli, we dont have to talk much, because they both have been there for such a long time. They both have been match-winners. Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Anshul Kamboj are in Indias Test squad and will be released for the last two ODIs for the two-game series preparations. It will put more of the load on Rohit, Kohli and those who have played less ODI cricket to win the last two matches. India lost ODI series in England this year and to Australia last year, and their last ODI series win in New Zealand came in 2018/19. Raju said Indias pace resources had been hit by injuries at a time when rival teams were fielding tall, hit-the-deck bowlers. If you see all the white-ball playing nations nowadays - like Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand they are all having very tall bowlers and hit-the-deck bowlers. Where are we lacking in that? Because most of the guys who had that ability are on the injury list. So, the most important thing is how you adapt to them. See, we are bound to lose a couple of matches. But then, before the World Cup, if you can get your things and combination right because here we are lacking in spin, fast bowlers also and those all-rounders who are getting injured. So, its not only the batting - I think bowling is going to be our main concern. So, you might lose a couple of bilateral series. But probably, I think the selectors and the (team) management, I think they have to find a combination. Then, try to see that you take care of them before the World Cup. So, the most important thing is how you adapt to them. See, we are bound to lose a couple of matches. But then, before the World Cup, if you can get your things and combination right because here we are lacking in spin, fast bowlers also and those all-rounders who are getting injured. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Two Five-Wicket Hauls, Two Fifties Put Karnataka in Command
Rohan Patil and Mayank Agarwal scored contrasting half-centuries, building a crucial 129-run partnership, after Karnataka's bowlers dismantled Assam's batting line-up, giving their team a commanding lead on day one of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group B match.
Ranji Trophy: Salil and Sanvirbail Punjab out on the opening day
The two add 205 for the unbroken sixth wicket to take the home side to 276 for five after Andhra pacers Raju and Sai Teja wreak havoc in the first session
Former India cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth is not totally impressed with Tilak Varma, amid Mumbai Indians' captaincy conundrum.
Rishabh Pant To Undergo Another Fitness Test Before New Zealand Series After Failing One
Captain Dhruv Jurel: India wicketkeeper batter Rishabh Pant will have the chance to prove his fitness once more as the batter is set to undertake another test before he can leave for New Zealand ahead of the Test series. Pant suffered a side strain during the Irani Cup match while leading Rest of India and Jammu and Kashmir. He has been at the BCCI CoE for around 10 days and failed a fitness test on Sunday. As per a report in Cricinfo, he will take another fitness test in two days before he is cleared to play in New Zealand. If he manages to clear the test this time around, he will be joining the Indian A side for the third multi-day game against New Zealand A, which begins on November 7 in Lincoln. Pant was named in India A's squad for the three four-day games, which were preparatory matches for the visiting side. However, his availability was subject to fitness clearance. The wicketkeeper batter was ruled out of the first two matches due to his recovery, with Kumar Kushagra named his replacement. Captain Dhruv Jurel kept the wickets in the first two matches as Kushagra did not get to play. Pant was also named in India's squads for the two-match Test series against the Blackcaps, which begins on November 19; however, his participation in the series was also subject to fitness clearance. The same report also added that India speedster Jasprit Bumrah has left for New Zealand and is likely to play the third multi-day game against New Zealand A to prepare for the Test series. Bumrah was rested for India's white-ball series against the West Indies at home and the away T20I and ODI series against New Zealand. This was due to the BCCI wanting to keep their talisman pacer in a cotton wool ahead of the New Zealand Test series, which is considered to be an important one for India's chances for the World Test Championship final. The same report also added that India speedster Jasprit Bumrah has left for New Zealand and is likely to play the third multi-day game against New Zealand A to prepare for the Test series. Bumrah was rested for India's white-ball series against the West Indies at home and the away T20I and ODI series against New Zealand. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sophie Devine four-for seals low-scoring encounter for Scorchers
Despite Meg Lanning's 41 at the top of the order, Stars collapsed to a 15-run loss in their chase of 125
In a major blow for CSA (Cricket South Africa), the sides star player, Kyle Verreynne, and batting coach, Ashwell Prince, have been found in breach of the ICCs Code of Conduct and have been handed...
Rishabh Pant To Undergo Crucial BCCI Fitness Test With New Zealand Tour On Line: Report
Rishabh Pant has been given another opportunity to clear his fitness test ahead of India's upcoming tour of New Zealand after failing to pass the assessment at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru on Sunday
Pant's New Zealand Test Hopes Hang on Crucial Fitness Assessment
Rishabh Pant gets another opportunity to clear his fitness test within two days and join India A for the New Zealand warm-up game ahead of the two-Test series.
Lalit Modi Bats To Identify Best IPL Window Between October And April
Lalit Modi: IPL's founding chairman Lalit Modi has called for a change of the IPL window from March-May to a window between October and April, suggesting the start of the lucrative tournament from January and increasing number of matches to 94. Modi also drew a comparison to how football leagues run over months, and he also asked ICC chairman Jay Shah to help facilitate the calendar. The IPL founder stressed that when the tournament was launched in 2008, April and May were the only available opportunity at that time. You are looking at the IPL today and applying that certainty to the circumstances in which I created it. When I started, there was enormous resistance and scepticism. I took a window nobody wanted and built a competition people wanted to watch. The success we see today was not handed to us. April-May was the opportunity available then. It was never a declaration that these were the ideal months for Indian cricket for all time. We began with eight teams and a 59-match schedule. The BCCI subsequently expanded the league to 10 teams. A complete home-and-away competition for 10 teams means 90 league matches and four playoffs. That is 94 matches - 35 more than the original format, an increase of almost 60%, he said as quoted by Cricbuzz. The 62-year-old further argued that the organisers must create better experience through sensible timings to accommodate the increased number of matches. How do you accommodate that growth in essentially the same compressed period without putting more pressure on players, spectators and everyone delivering the tournament? For families, of course, the holiday period was an advantage. But families follow teams, players and compelling cricket. Their interest is not confined to two months. We should build a better experience through sensible timings, weekends and comfortable stadium conditions, while taking school calendars into account. I created the IPL to grow. I did not create it to stand still, he added. Meanwhile, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal, while speaking to a sports magazine earlier this year, had also suggested dividing the tournament into two windows to get more matches. As per Modi's suggestion, a January start would be a major tweak to the international calendar and also to domestic cricket for India, changing the Test cricket schedule and domestic schedule. It would require changes. That is precisely why this discussion belongs in the new FTP, Modi admitted. My broader position is that we should identify the best window from October to the end of April. January is a concrete starting proposal within that range. I am not asking for seven uninterrupted months of exclusive IPL cricket. We need to sit down with the actual fixtures, venues, travel requirements and player commitments and design the season properly. International cricket needs protected blocks. Domestic cricket needs a coherent programme. Players need preparation and genuine rest. You cannot fit a Test tour into a few spare weekdays. But the calendar would have to change cannot be the final answer to every proposal. The purpose of planning a new calendar is to improve it, he added. Currently, India doesn't have a problem giving up their international schedule for franchise cricket, and they are able to freely host the international game and then also the IPL. Modi felt that the economics trend is likely to change for international cricket. Then assess the economics properly. My assessment is that bilateral and ICC rights income faces pressure in the coming cycle. The IPL is the BCCIs principal commercial engine and, in my view, its lifeline for future growth. The BCCI should be planning ahead of that risk. A change in dates does not automatically mean combining the rights packages or abandoning valuable international cricket. It means deciding how the whole year should work. Calculate the additional IPL opportunity, the international income affected, the costs and the arrangements needed with other boards. Look at the net benefit to cricket. Keeping two income streams separate is useful. Keeping the calendar unchanged regardless of how those income streams develop is not a business strategy, he added. He also argued that heat and humidity trouble the players, spectators and other stakeholders during the latter part of IPL, further asking the tournament to be moved to the October-April period by choosing dates and venues intelligently. Conditions differ across India, and April itself can be very hot. That is a reason for detailed planning. We must consider the experience of everyone on the ground. The IPL currently has 74 matches scheduled, and increasing it to 94 can also create fatigue among players and viewers. Modi emphasised the problem. Fatigue is precisely one of the problems I want us to address. There is a difference between spreading a season sensibly and asking viewers to consume more and more cricket on consecutive days. The 94-match figure comes from a clear sporting proposition: 10 teams, every opponent at home and away, followed by four playoffs. Each team would have nine home and nine away league fixtures. Supporters would get to see every opponent in their own city. The BCCI expanded the league. The calendar should allow the full competition to develop properly. A longer season gives us room to create a recognisable weekly rhythm, build anticipation and leave breathing space. It also requires us to manage the players entire year. More weeks alone will not create rest if we fill every gap with another commitment, he argued. Modi also asked ICC chair Shah to help facilitate the tournament, asking him to find a settlement where IPL can be strengthened and giving certainty to the wider game. His responsibility to world cricket is exactly why I am asking him to use his good offices. BCCI can develop an IPL proposal. Securing an international agreement around it requires someone who understands Indias commercial importance and the legitimate interests of the other boards. Jay has the experience to help bring those interests together. He has already contributed to the IPLs commercial growth. At the ICC, he has the opportunity to help translate that strength into an arrangement the wider game can support. That means listening to other boards, protecting important international cricket and examining fair arrangements for player release and development. The countries producing overseas talent must have a reason to support the outcome. Modi also asked ICC chair Shah to help facilitate the tournament, asking him to find a settlement where IPL can be strengthened and giving certainty to the wider game. His responsibility to world cricket is exactly why I am asking him to use his good offices. BCCI can develop an IPL proposal. Securing an international agreement around it requires someone who understands Indias commercial importance and the legitimate interests of the other boards. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Pakistan fined for slow over rate in tri-series final win against Sri Lanka
Pakistan were found one over short after time allowances were taken into consideration
Used To Get Smashed A Lot: India Great Delivers Unfiltered Judgment On Mumbai Indians' New Coaches
Mumbai Indians have revamped their coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027, with Kieron Pollard being appointed head coach, Robin Uthappa batting coach and Mitchell McClenaghan bowling coach.
Afghanistan climb to sixth, achieve highest-ever position in ODI rankings
They recently beat Ireland 4-0 in an away series before going unbeaten in the UAE tri-series
Dad Couldnt Play For India, He Sees That Dream In Me, Says GGs Newest Recruit Samaira Raghav
Against South Delhi Superstarz: Samaira Raghav was not supposed to be watching the Womens Premier League (WPL) auction. Her parents had asked her to stay away from seeing live feed of the auction proceedings happening in Kochi last week. They feared the weight of hope would be too much for a 16-year-old to carry, in case she doesn't find any takers. A day before the auction, Samaira was one of four late entries that took the WPL 2027 auction pool from 146 to 150 players. She learnt about it from an Instagram story, and then from her mother. My mom quickly messaged me that, I think you are in the auction list now, Samaira recalled in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Monday. Five minutes before her name came up, she switched the feed on anyway at her hotel room in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, where she is currently playing the U19 Womens T20 Challengers tournament, with her Team D room-mate. Then I saw my name and the Gujarat Giants paddle go up and I was just ecstatic. Both of us screamed at the top of our lungs in the hotel room. Then after that, it was just surreal, she added. Gujarat Giants bought her at her base price of 10 lakh rupees. But for Samaira, it was the first public validation of a dream which began taking shape nine years ago. Born on January 23, 2010, Samairas tryst with sports began with 100m and 200m sprints. But my dad wanted me to try other sports as well because I was very sporty ever since I was young. At seven, her father Sunil Raghav took her to a cricket academy. The first session featured fielding, and it won over Samaira. I just enjoyed it so much. After that day, I just kept going to the academy with my own free will. My dad kind of pushed me into cricket. But from there, I just took over. Sunil played as a leg-spinner until college, before committing to studies, including pursuing an MBA from IIM Calcutta. Sunil later went on to scale technologies at Dow Chemicals, Dr Reddys Laboratories and Total (Arkema Global) in USA and India. I think it was his wish for himself to play cricket at India level. But he could not fulfill it. So, he kind of sees it in me now and I am working on it, said Samaira. Samairas mother, Puja Jain, spent a decade at McKinsey & Company. She rose to partner and co-led its sustainability practice, as well as holds two US patents from research at Penn State University and Dow Chemicals. Today the couple run ElementRe, which specialises in end-to-end lithium-ion battery recycling solutions. While Puja is the CEO, Sunil acts as CTO. In cricket, Samaira started out mainly as a batter. During the Covid-19 lockdown, batting was impossible in their housing society in Gurugram, so Sunil got time to develop her leg-spin skills. We would just go down in our society and I would start bowling. He taught me the basics and from there, I kind of picked up my bowling skills from my dad. As Samaira grew, Sunil stepped back. When I was a bit younger, I wasn't that independent. But after a few years, he let me be independent. I would go and come back by metro. Since then, he has been around. But he just leaves me on his own now. Samaira now trains under Dipti Dhyani, currently the head coach of Delhi's senior women's team, at the City Cricket Academy in Hauz Khas, which is affiliated to the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) and plays under the name Sonnet. It was there that her role changed. As a child she opened the batting. But playing alongside the seniors, Samaira was pushed down the order. Her coaches had one piece of advice: if she gets batting late, she needs to hit sixes. They told me that I should probably develop the skill to hit sixes. So, from there, we started working on it. After that, I would just go and finish matches and everything. I would not feel that much pressure while doing it. That is why I just picked it from there and I really enjoy it, she said. She also saw where womens cricket was rapidly going more towards power-hitting and six-hitting skills. In the earlier days, there was more of grounded cricket. But now, the game has changed. The formats have become shorter and everybody is focussing more on power hitting in sixes. I also thought I would also learn and go with whatever trend is going on. Then, I know it will help me in the future as well if I am hitting sixes. Her role models are two of India's best-known finishers: former captain MS Dhoni and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh. Obviously, there is MSD. Richa Ghosh now, she is really amazing, said Samaira. The work showed this year in the Women's Delhi Premier League (DPL), where Samaira played for North Delhi Strikers. Against South Delhi Superstarz, Samairas 32 off 26 balls, with two fours and a six, helped her side win by two runs. Against East Delhi Riders, she made an unbeaten 34 off 21 balls and won the game with a six off the penultimate delivery. We took it till the end (against East Delhi). I just thought that I can't really lose from this point. I have to win this. I have come so far in this match. At that ball, I think our bowlers started coming in as batters. There were no more batters that could hit sixes. So, at that ball, I thought we needed a boundary anyhow. Then, I would go for a six only because if I ran a single, then we would probably lose the match. Its because the last batter would not be able to hit a six. After that, I just went for it. Thankfully, it connected and then went for a six, she recalled. The pattern has led to Samaira being in good form. Playing for Delhi in the Under-19 Women's T20 Trophy, she scored 162 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 216. She was out only three times, while averaging 54, and hitting 14 fours and 12 sixes. In the Under-19 Women's T20 Challenger Trophy, against Team A, Team D side was reeling at 27/3 after eight overs. Samaira came in and hit 78 off 44 balls, hitting six fours and as many sixes, and carried them to 137/6. Against Team B, chasing at more than 10 runs an over, she made an unbeaten 24 off 12 balls, with two fours and as many sixes. In between, Samaira found time to attend two WPL trials - for Mumbai Indians in Mumbai and for Gujarat Giants in Bengaluru. offered only an open net session. Bengaluru was different. At Mumbai Indians, we had an open net session. I could not really get a chance to talk to the coaches. Gujarat Giants, however, they really took notice of me and my six-hitting abilities there in the camp. All of them gave me really positive feedback and a few points to work on which I am working on now. They also took notice of my bowling there. So, the bowling coach, PT, Pravin (Tambe) sir, he really saw that I could also bowl and I had good potential to be a bowler as well. That's why I think now they've picked me. But it was amazing to be part of that camp, she said. Her fielding skills too were noticed by GG coaching staff. We just had one match simulation. I think I stopped one or two boundaries. I don't know if it was that noticeable, but I gave my 100 percent. People who watched her over two days of trials said she struck the ball as hard as anyone present, and that her fielding stood out as compared to other players. Samaira credits the DDCA, and its president Rohan Jaitley, for helping women players get a noticeable platform via DPL. I have been so grateful to DDCA, honestly. They have given us so many opportunities for youngsters to showcase their talent. Now WPL scouts are coming in to watch our games and then kids are getting selected. This time, I think 4-5 people from Delhi are in the WPL. It really makes a difference. So, I am really grateful to DDCA. Rohan Jaitley sir has made so many efforts for women to also be at the same level as men. Like, giving them the same opportunities, playing in the same field and I am really grateful to them. They have actually given us so much exposure. She knows how quickly praise can unsettle a young player. I always think about my roots and where I have come from and where I am now. It really humbles me a lot. I think about those low times that I had when nobody was there except my family and my coaches. It really just makes me feel so much gratitude for everybody who has been there. Her parents, she says, are proud but rarely show it. I think its because they don't show it to me because then they think that I will be really happy about it and not focus on other things. So, they just want to keep me grounded. That's why they just act normal. When nerves build, she dabbles in painting and drawing. Music calms her too - before every match, the last song she hears before stepping off the bus and playing a game has to be 52 Bars by Punjabi singer Karan Aujla. The pure wisdom in young blood reflects in Samairas Instagram bio: Love to play cricket. Beneath it sits a line from the legendary Rahul Dravid You dont play for revenge but play for respect and pride. Samairas next test may pull her away from the WPL, if she is picked for the Under-19 World Cup. But Samaira does not see a conflict, as it will be the first step towards fulfilling her fathers dream. If I also get to be in the U19 World Cup squad, it would actually be so amazing. I feel like I have a duty to my country if I get selected in the U19 World Cup. But right now, all I am thinking about is I just keep performing wherever I go and God will look after the rest. Samairas next test may pull her away from the WPL, if she is picked for the Under-19 World Cup. But Samaira does not see a conflict, as it will be the first step towards fulfilling her fathers dream. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Proteas look to cement No 1 Test spot as Bangladesh beckon
South Africa have recalled batters Tony de Zorzi and Zubayr Hamza to their squad for the upcoming two-match home Test series against Bangladesh, while seamer Lungi Ngidi remains sidelined due to injury.
Arshdeep Defends Girlfriend From Trolls
Fast bowler Arshdeep Singh defends girlfriend Samreen Kaur after she fiercely responded to online trolls criticising their relationship.
Verreynne, Prince handed official reprimands and one demerit point each
They breached Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct in Cape Town for showing dissent after Marques Ackerman's dismissal in the second innings
SA Womens Historic Home Tour Vs AUS Pushed By A Week To Fit In Inaugural Champions Trophy
Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium: South Africas maiden home series against Australia women has been rescheduled to run from March 24 to April 18, 2027, following the confirmation of the inaugural ICC Womens Champions Trophy, which will be held from February 14 to 28. The landmark bilateral tour will feature three T20 Internationals, three One-Day Internationals and a one-off Test, with matches scheduled across seven venues in South Africa. The T20I leg will begin in Kimberley on March 24, followed by matches in Benoni on March 27 and Potchefstroom on March 30. The teams will then move to the 50-over format, with ODIs scheduled in Durban (April 3), Paarl (April 7) and Gqeberha (April 10). The tour will conclude with a historic four-day Test from April 15 to 18 at Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium in KuGompo City, which will host a womens Test for the first time. The ODI series will also carry added significance, forming part of the ICC Womens Championship 2026-29, through which teams compete for qualification to the 2029 ICC Womens Cricket World Cup. The opening ODI in Durban on April 3 will coincide with the sixth edition of the Black Day ODI, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. Cricket South Africa (CSA) chief executive officer Pholetsi Moseki welcomed the revised schedule and highlighted the significance of hosting the Australian side for the first time. Hosting a heralded team like Australia will always be a special occasion, let alone doing so for the first time. We are very appreciative of the work put in by both Cricket South Africa and Cricket Australia to ensure the tours new dates were confirmed following the scheduling of the ICC Womens Champions Trophy, Moseki said in a statement. This is an exciting opportunity for fans across South Africa to get behind the Proteas as they take on the defending T20 World Cup champions at seven venues nationwide. The tour builds towards a historic finale in KuGompo City with the first womens Test between South Africa and Australia on South African soil. Its a landmark occasion for womens cricket, and we look forward to seeing supporters fill the stands. Hosting a heralded team like Australia will always be a special occasion, let alone doing so for the first time. We are very appreciative of the work put in by both Cricket South Africa and Cricket Australia to ensure the tours new dates were confirmed following the scheduling of the ICC Womens Champions Trophy, Moseki said in a statement. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Afghanistan make history, climb to 6th in ICC ODI Rankings
Afghanistan has achieved its highest-ever position in the ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings, climbing to 6th spot and surpassing Sri Lanka, following impressive performances including a 4-0 series win over Ireland and an unbeaten tri-series campaign.
Tony de Zorzi returns to South Africa squad for Bangladesh Tests
South Africa also picked Zubayr Hamza and Anrich Nortje after he recovered from a groin injury
Ebola outbreak: Kenya trip scuttles Tribe's tour of the West Indies with England Lions
Asa Tribe was in Kenya recently to represent Jersey in the CWC Challenge League Group A matches, and Kenya announced its first Ebola cases last month
Expected Something New? Team India Questioned Over Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Return For 5th T20I
The T20I series against New Zealand turned out to be a forgettable outing for veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who had returned to the national side after four years.
Afghanistan Attain All-time High Sixth Spot In ICC ODI Rankings
ODI Team Rankings: Afghanistan have reached a new landmark in their cricketing journey, climbing to sixth place in the latest ICC Mens ODI Team Rankings to register their best-ever position in the format. The rise sees Afghanistan move past Sri Lanka, adding another significant achievement to the rapid progress they have made since entering international one-day cricket in 2009. They are now ranked ahead of several established cricketing nations, having already moved above Bangladesh, England and the West Indies. The latest rankings milestone reflects Afghanistans growing consistency in the 50-over format. They have won 96 of their 191 ODIs, maintaining an impressive win-loss ratio of 1.09. Their emergence as a formidable side has been particularly evident in major international competitions. At the 2023 ICC Mens Cricket World Cup, Afghanistan registered landmark victories over Pakistan and Sri Lanka, underlining their ability to challenge teams with considerably greater experience at the highest level. Their progress has also extended to the shortest format, where they reached the semi-finals of the 2024 ICC Mens T20 World Cup for the first time. Recent results have further strengthened their credentials. Afghanistan completed a 4-0 series sweep against Ireland in Ireland before going through the recently concluded tri-series involving Zimbabwe and Bangladesh without suffering a defeat. Their momentum has continued in T20Is, with a comprehensive 3-0 series victory over Zimbabwe in Sharjah on Sunday. Afghanistan wrapped up the final match with a seven-wicket win after dismissing the hosts for just 79. Left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad delivered a career-best performance, claiming 5/13 to dismantle Zimbabwes middle and lower order. Fazalhaq Farooqi, Azmatullah Omarzai and Abdullah Tarakhail had also contributed with early breakthroughs as Zimbabwe struggled to recover from losing three wickets for 13 runs. Afghanistans chase was completed in 11.4 overs, with Ibrahim Zadran remaining unbeaten on 25 and Omarzai contributing an unbeaten 18. Left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad delivered a career-best performance, claiming 5/13 to dismantle Zimbabwes middle and lower order. Fazalhaq Farooqi, Azmatullah Omarzai and Abdullah Tarakhail had also contributed with early breakthroughs as Zimbabwe struggled to recover from losing three wickets for 13 runs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
ICC Reprimands SA Batting Coach Prince, Wicketkeeper Verreynne For Code Of Conduct Breach
Emirates ICC Elite Panel: South Africa batting coach Ashwell Prince and player Kyle Verreynne have been reprimanded for breaching Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct on the third day of the third Test against Australia in Cape Town. Prince and Verreynne were reprimanded for the same incident, which occurred after the dismissal of opener Marques Ackerman in South Africas second innings. Ackerman tried to review the caught verdict, but the umpires ruled that his appeal for a review did not come within the prescribed 15 seconds and thus could not be taken. As the batter walked towards the boundary line, Prince shouted repeatedly at the umpires that there was still time left for the appeal to be taken, while Verreynne, who was not in the playing eleven, asked Ackerman to remain inside the boundary line, which caused a delay in him leaving the field. Prince and Verreynne were found to have breached Article 2.8 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to showing dissent at an umpire's decision during an international match, ICC said in a statement. It added, One demerit point has been added to each of their disciplinary records, as these were their first offences in a 24-month period. Prince and Verreynne admitted their offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Javagal Srinath of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees, so there was no need for formal hearings. On-field umpires Richard Illingworth and Richard Kettleborough, third umpire Chris Gaffaney, and fourth umpire Lubabalo Gcuma levelled the charges. Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a players match fee, and one or two demerit points. A stellar fightback on Day 4, backed by a hostile bowling performance on the final day of the Cape Town Test, guided South Africa to a famous 2-1 series win over Australia. Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a players match fee, and one or two demerit points. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Irfan, Boucher, Waqar among support staff for inaugural Afghanistan Premier League
International stars like Wanindu Hasaranga, Reeza Hendricks, Romario Shepherd, Rovman Powell and Imran Tahir are part of the Draft, to be held on November 3
Australia Women's tour of SA postponed by a week to accommodate Champions Trophy
The series will now be played from March 24 to April 18, finishing with a one-off women's Test in East London
Wasim Jaffer weighs in on Shreyas Iyer's performances as India clinch T20I series against NZ
The T20I series between India and New Zealand came to a conclusion with the Indian team clinching the five-game series with a score of 3-2. It is worth noting that the Men in Blue kicked...
Pant to undergo second test to prove fitness for New Zealand tour
Rishabh Pant, who failed to pass the first fitness test on Sunday, will be available for the third New Zealand A vs India A four-day match if he is cleared to travel
Pakistan fined for slow over-rate in tri-series final against Sri Lanka
Digital Desk | Dubai, Nov 2 (IANS) Pakistan have been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in ODI Tri-Series final against Sri Lanka in Lahore. The sanction was imposed by Jeff Crowe of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after Pakistan were found to have bowled one over short of the required quota within the stipulated time, even after accounting for time allowances. Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed penalty, avoiding the need for a formal hearing. The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Wayne Knights, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Rashid Riaz. Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, teams are penalised five per cent of their players match fees for every over they fall short of the minimum over-rate requirement. The penalty applies after the available time allowances have been taken into consideration. The fine comes after Pakistan registered a thrilling three-wicket victory over Sri Lanka to lift the tri-series trophy in front of their home crowd. Chasing a challenging target of 326, the hosts reached 329 for seven with nine balls remaining, completing the tournament-winning run chase. Fakhar Zaman was the chief architect of Pakistans successful pursuit, producing a commanding 127 off 99 deliveries, his 12th ODI century. He received valuable support from Saad Baig, who scored 74 off 75 balls, as the pair rescued the hosts after early dismissals of Maaz Sadaqat and Babar Azam. With Pakistan needing late impetus after Zamans dismissal, Arafat Minhas delivered a decisive contribution, smashing 61 off just 31 deliveries, including four sixes and as many boundaries. His aggressive knock brought the equation within reach before Shaheen sealed the victory with a six. Earlier, Kamindu Mendis had struck 131, while Pavan Rathnayake contributed 77, taking Sri Lanka to 325 for eight. However, their efforts proved insufficient as Pakistan completed the chase to claim the tri-series title.
J&K Crowned Champions Of IDCA T20 National Cricket Championship For Deaf
IDCA T20 National Cricket Championship: Jammu & Kashmir emerged champions of the IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026, while Rajasthan finished runners-up in the tournament held in Surat, Gujarat. Tamil Nadu Deafs Sai Akash was named Player of the Series and also received the Best Batsman of the Series award. Rajasthan Deafs Sanju Sharma was adjudged Best Bowler of the Series, while Jammu & Kashmir Deafs Shariq Majeed received the Player of the Match award in the final. Organised by the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), in association with the Gujarat Deaf Cricket Association (GDCA) and Deaf Cricket Association Surat (DCAS), the championship was held from October 26 to November 1 at Bawaji Cricket Ground, Bhatpore. Teams representing 14 states and regions across India participated in the tournament. The 10th edition marked the first time Surat hosted the national-level T20 championship for deaf cricketers, providing a platform for players to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level. The closing ceremony was attended by Santosh Kumar Rai, IAS, Special Secretary, Home Department, Government of Delhi, as the chief guest. He congratulated Jammu & Kashmir on winning the title and Rajasthan on finishing runners-up, while acknowledging the contributions of the participating players, coaches, officials, organisers, sponsors and volunteers. These talented deaf cricketers have demonstrated that hearing impairment is never a barrier to achieving excellence in sports. Such initiatives provide a valuable platform for deaf athletes to showcase their talent, promote inclusion and equal opportunities, and inspire future generations, Santosh Kumar Rai, IAS, said, IDCA president Sumit Jain said the tournaments successful conclusion marked another milestone in the associations efforts to strengthen deaf cricket in India. The successful conclusion of the 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf marks another important milestone in our efforts to strengthen the platform for deaf cricket in India. Bringing together 14 teams from across the country in Surat, for the first time, reflects the growing reach of the sport and the commitment of everyone working to advance it. We congratulate Jammu & Kashmir on winning the championship and Rajasthan on finishing as runners-up. Our appreciation goes to GDCA, DCAS, the participating teams, officials, volunteers and partners whose collective efforts made this edition possible, Sumit said. GDCA general secretary Mittal Shah also highlighted the significance of hosting the national championship in Surat. The exceptional talent, discipline and spirit shown by all teams made it a memorable celebration of deaf cricket. We extend our sincere gratitude to IDCA, the players, officials, volunteers, sponsors and partners for making this event a grand success. Heartiest congratulations to Jammu & Kashmir on their title win and to Rajasthan for their strong finish, Mittal said. The closing ceremony also featured a special retirement felicitation for Parth Gajjar in recognition of his contribution and service to Indian Deaf Cricket. The exceptional talent, discipline and spirit shown by all teams made it a memorable celebration of deaf cricket. We extend our sincere gratitude to IDCA, the players, officials, volunteers, sponsors and partners for making this event a grand success. Heartiest congratulations to Jammu & Kashmir on their title win and to Rajasthan for their strong finish, Mittal said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gambhir: India's T20 win in NZ sets tone for tour
India's head coach Gautam Gambhir has lauded the Shreyas Iyer-led T20 team for their impressive 3-2 series victory against New Zealand, achieved despite minimal preparation time and challenging conditions, setting a strong precedent for the upcoming ODI and Test matches.
IND vs NZ series: You guys have set the tone for rest of the tour, says Gambhir
India defeated the hosts 3-2 in the T20 series despite landing here just a couple of days before the lung-opener and having very little time to rest and recover in between games held at four different venues
2nd Unofficial Test: NZ As Lower Order Frustrates India After Mukesh, Siraj Heroics
Unofficial Test: India As bowlers were made to work hard for their wickets as New Zealand As lower order turned the contest around on Day 3 of the second unofficial Test at Hagley Oval, stretching their first-innings total to 424 and securing a 78-run lead on Monday. India A reached 32 for no loss in their second innings at stumps, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and B Sai Sudharsan reducing the deficit to 46. The day had begun with New Zealand A firmly placed at 218/3, but Mohammed Siraj wasted little time in breaking the resistance, dismissing Matthew Boyle for 110 with the first delivery of the morning. Devdutt Padikkal pulled off a sharp one-handed catch at slip to bring an end to the 208-run partnership. Siraj struck again after the introduction of the second new ball, removing Dean Foxcroft for 93, just seven short of a century. Mukesh Kumar followed up by getting wicketkeeper Mitchell Hay caught behind, leaving the hosts under pressure after a productive start to the day. India A appeared to have seized control when Mukesh continued to trouble the batters and completed a five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 5/87. Siraj claimed four wickets for 118, while Washington Sundar accounted for the other dismissal. However, the visitors could not wrap up the innings quickly. A missed opportunity to dismiss Fraser Sheat, dropped by R Smaran off Akash Deep, proved costly as the New Zealand A lower order dug in. Sheat went on to make 40, while Kristian Clarke contributed 41 and Hay had earlier added 31. The final-wicket pair of Jayden Lennox and Jarrod McKay frustrated India A for an extended period, adding 55 runs and pushing the hosts well beyond the visitors first-innings score. McKay remained composed for his 33 off 75 balls before Washington bowled him, bringing the innings to a close at 424. Lennoxs resistance helped ensure New Zealand A finished with a sizeable advantage. India A then had 11 overs to negotiate before close of play. Jaiswal, who had endured a difficult run in the earlier innings on the tour, looked more assured and was unbeaten on 20, while Sudharsan finished the day on 11. The pair avoided any late setbacks to take India A to 32/0. With the final days play remaining, India A will need to build a substantial second-innings total and turn their 46-run deficit into a challenging target for the hosts. India A then had 11 overs to negotiate before close of play. Jaiswal, who had endured a difficult run in the earlier innings on the tour, looked more assured and was unbeaten on 20, while Sudharsan finished the day on 11. The pair avoided any late setbacks to take India A to 32/0. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Virat Kohli's Home ODI Under Serious Threat, Likely To Be Shifted: Report
India are set to take on Sri Lanka in a three-match ODI series starting on December 13. The opening match was originally scheduled to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, with fans of Virat Kohli eager to watch the local star in action.
'We Walk Away Stronger': Australia Coach Despite Loss Against South Africa
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has backed his team's batting unit despite consecutive collapses against South Africa, insisting the visitors have reasons to remain optimistic following their series defeat in Cape Town.
Andrew McDonald opens up Marnus Labuschagne's future with Australia amid continued subpar form
Australia are coming into the back of a disappointing series loss against South Africa. The two sides met across three Test matches, where despite winning the first Test, Australia succumbed to losses in the second...
'Virat Has More Chances Of Scoring A 100 Than Rohit': Pujara Backs Kohli To Shine In NZ ODIs
In New Zealand: Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes Virat Kohli has a better chance than Rohit Sharma of scoring more centuries in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. Pujara feels Kohlis role at number three gives him a greater opportunity to build an innings and play the anchor, while Rohits usual responsibility of making an aggressive start in the powerplay could undergo a change on New Zealand pitches. The way Rohit bats, he has a role of providing good starts in the powerplay. In New Zealand, maybe that role changes, so he could go for a century. But for Virat, the chances are slightly higher because he bats at number three. His game is more about playing the anchor role. So, for a batsman coming in at number three, scoring a century in the ODI format becomes a bit easier. The openers role is also defined, but in New Zealand conditions, that changes a bit. So, I feel Virat has more chances of scoring a hundred in New Zealand than Rohit, Pujara told JioStar. Pujara also expects a closely fought contest between the two sides, predicting a 2-2 outcome across the five-match series. He believes New Zealand could have a slight edge because India are set to field different combinations across the first three and final two matches. However, he remains confident about Indias prospects in the opening leg, while anticipating a tougher challenge in the concluding fixtures. Two-all. In the first three matches, one team is playing, and then, in the last two matches, another Indian team is going to play. So, I think New Zealand have a slight advantage because you arent playing the same team in all five matches. Im still backing the Indian team in the first three matches, as I feel they will do well. However, he remains confident about Indias prospects in the opening leg, while anticipating a tougher challenge in the concluding fixtures. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Why Kohli Scores More 100s Than Rohit
Virat Kohli's strategic anchor role at No. 3 in ODIs gives him a distinct advantage in accumulating centuries over aggressive Rohit Sharma.
'Test Series Is Decisive For Gambhir; KL, Gill Should Focus On Red Ball Game: Nayar
Nitish Kumar Reddy: Former India batting coach Abhishek Nayar believes the team management should have prioritised red-ball preparation for players featuring in both formats ahead of India's upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand, arguing that the contest carries importance for head coach Gautam Gambhir and Indian cricket fans. Speaking about the decision to split India's ODI squads for the five-match series against New Zealand, Nayar felt players such as Shubman Gill and KL Rahul would have benefited from an extended period of preparation with the red ball following the earlier Test series defeat to the Blackcaps. Nayar admitted that New Zealands previous triumph on Indian soil remained a painful memory and stressed that India must approach the upcoming assignment with the intention of returning the favour. New Zealand came to India, they beat us in the Test series, and that hurt me a little, as it did the rest of our fans too. So, its a big series. There should be a balance in life. World Cup is important, but there is some time for that. This Test series, for me, is a decisive one for Gautam Gambhir and Indian fans. So, I would have liked players like KL Rahul and Shubman Gill, who are playing both formats, to focus only on Test cricket. Because now you have to prepare for the ODIs and, after that, the Tests. So, I would rather have given them one or two months to go and practise with the red ball. Just like they beat us here in India, we should beat them there, Nayar told JioStar. India will have different leadership arrangements across the five ODIs, with Gill captaining the opening three matches before Shreyas Iyer takes charge for the final two. Gill and Rahul are expected to leave the ODI setup after the third match to begin preparations for the Test assignment. Nayar also weighed in on Yashasvi Jaiswals omission from the ODI squad, suggesting that the left-handed opener could have been encouraged to use the opportunity to strengthen his red-ball credentials through domestic cricket rather than remain on the sidelines. I know that the communication must have taken place with Yashasvi that, Look, we are not picking you because Rohit Sharma is anyway going to open with Shubman Gill. So, rather than sitting out, you prepare for New Zealand and play the Ranji Trophy, because that gives you a better chance of coming good in the Test series and helping Team India win, he added. Jaiswals absence from the ODI selections comes as India prepare to balance their limited-overs commitments with the demands of the Test format. The split squads also provide opportunities for several players to feature in the latter part of the series, with Shreyas leading a revamped group in the fourth and fifth ODIs. India ODI squad for first three matches: Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy (first ODI only), Auqib Nabi. Jaiswals absence from the ODI selections comes as India prepare to balance their limited-overs commitments with the demands of the Test format. The split squads also provide opportunities for several players to feature in the latter part of the series, with Shreyas leading a revamped group in the fourth and fifth ODIs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gautam Gambhir's Dressing Room Speech Comes With A Warning To Indian Team After 3-2 Series Result
After India's T20I series against New Zealand concluded with a 3-2 scoreline, Gautam Gambhir fired a warning to the team.
Rabada Vs Bumrah: Who Is the Better Test Bowler?
The numbers don't settle it. Bumrah has the lower average and is harder to score off. Rabada has the bigger pile, the ten-wicket matches, and a winning team behind him.
In a major development, CA ( Cricket Australia) came forward and named the squad for the upcoming white-ball series against England. The two arch-rivals will be taking on each other across three ODIs and three T20I matches. The ODIs will be held on November 13, 15, and 18, with the T20I matches slated to be held on November 21, 24, and 27.
Coach McDonald defends Australia after Proteas series loss
Australian coach Andrew McDonald has defended his team against a 'flood of criticism' following their 2-1 Test series loss to South Africa, acknowledging underachievement but backing the squad's core players. He addressed concerns about player performance and the team's future, particularly regarding Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith.
Virat Kohli vs Rohit Sharma: Cheteshwar Pujara Names Player Who Has Higher Chance Of Scoring Hundred
Cheteshwar Pujara also predicted a 2-2 result in the upcoming India-New Zealand ODI series, citing changes in India's squad across the five matches as a potential advantage for the visitors.
Lower-order runs put New Zealand A in front despite Siraj and Mukesh hauls
Yashasvi Jaiswal and B Sai Sudharsan batted out the 11 overs before close of play to reduce the deficit for India A to 46 runs
The stage is set for the upcoming five-game ODI series between India and New Zealand. The two sides will meet across five ODI matches, with the first ODI slated to be held on November 4,...
Ignored India Star Takes 5 Wickets In 2nd Unofficial Test But Team Concedes Lead To NZ A
Replying to India A's first innings score of 346, New Zealand A, who were reduced to 338 for 8, finished their first innings at 424. The last two wickets yielded 86 runs to provide the hosts a handy lead.
Team India Questioned As Shivam Dube Spends All 5 T20Is Against New Zealand On Bench
Shivam Dube didn't feature in a single T20I against New Zealand, even after Shreyas Iyer's men claimed 3-0 lead.
How South Africa beat Australia and what this means for their series against England
The reigning World Test Championship title holders again strutted their stuff and proved their doubters wrong. The post How South Africa beat Australia and what this means for their series against England appeared first on Cricket365 .
Former India cricketer Ambati Rayudu shut down any criticism over India's current T20I captain Shreyas Iyer after the latter smashed a 23-ball 50 in the fifth T20I against New Zealand on Sunday.
Beardman Set To Make ODI Debut In England Series; Fraser-McGurk Returns To T20Is
Mahli Beardman: Fast bowler Mahli Beardman is set to make his ODI squad in the upcoming white-ball series with Australia naming up to eight new faces on their first internationals at home as they host England for three ODIs and five T20Is starting November 13 in Perth. Beardman, young batter Oliver Peake and all-rounders Jack Edwards and Liam Scott were all named in the ODI squad, while Nikhil Chaudhary and Joel Davies join Beardman and Edwards in Australia's T20I setup, while there is a debut in the offing for wicketkeepers Lachlan Shaw and Sam Harper. Travis Head, Matthew Renshaw, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Josh Inglis and Cooper Connolly have all been included in the ODI squad. However, none of that group will front up for the T20I leg, which wraps up in Canberra on December 2. As Inglis has been rested from the T20I series, it opens the door for uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Shaw and Harper to vie for a debut. The T20 squad also marks Jake Fraser-McGurk's return to international cricket after an 18-month absence and Mitch Owen. Jake (Fraser-McGurk) and Mitch (Owen) return to the T20 side and we believe their ball-striking can be a point of difference in the shorter formats. They are good examples of players who have had an opportunity at the international level and have continued working on their game from what they learnt from those experiences, selection chief George Bailey said. Meanwhile, the fast-bowling trio of Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood have all been rested following their three-Test series in South Africa, with a 10-Test block to come starting in December. Nathan Ellis is still recovering from a side strain he picked up in the second ODI in South Africa in September that has kept him out of the 50-over leg, but he will return for the T20I series. Matt Short fell out of favour in the limited-overs set-up earlier this year and was not considered, having undergone a hip procedure that will keep him sidelined for the next five weeks. Australia squad: Mitchell Marsh (c), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Ollie Peake, Matthew Renshaw, Liam Scott, Adam Zampa. Matt Short fell out of favour in the limited-overs set-up earlier this year and was not considered, having undergone a hip procedure that will keep him sidelined for the next five weeks. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Namibia Script History, Clinch ODI Series vs Full-Member Nation Ireland 3-2
Namibia created history on Sunday by securing their first-ever bilateral ODI series victory against a Full Member nation, defeating Ireland by five wickets in the series decider in Windhoek.
Namibia scripts history with maiden bilateral ODI series win; stuns Ireland 3-2
The victory provides Namibia a significant boost to their preparations for next year ICC mens cricket World Cup
IND vs NZ ODI series | Chapman, Ravindra ruled out; Nicholls, Seifert in New Zealand squad
New Zealand Cricket Board said both Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra have failed to recuperate from their respective injuries
Lazio Pull Clear At Serie A Summit As Gennaro Gattuso Warns Of Vertigo
Lazio coach Gennaro Gattuso warned his team not to get carried away after they surged three points clear of Inter Milan at the top of Serie A on Sunday with a 2-1 victory over Cagliari.
Mukesh, Siraj shine but New Zealand A take lead on Day 3
Pacers Mukesh Kumar and Mohammed Siraj combined for nine wickets, but New Zealand A's lower order batters, led by Matthew Boyle's century, secured a 45-run first innings lead over India A on Day 3 of the second unofficial Test in Christchurch.
Indian-Origin Star Named In Australia Squad For White-Ball Series vs England
Australia named a host of fresh faces in new-look white-ball squads Monday to face England with exciting young quick Mahli Beardman and allrounders Jack Edwards and Liam Scott among those getting call-ups.
Australia Unveil New-Look White-Ball Squads for England Series, Fresh Faces Earn Call-Ups
Australia named a host of fresh faces in new-look white-ball squads Monday to face England with exciting young quick Mahli Beardman and allrounders Jack Edwards and Liam Scott among those getting call-ups. Batting prospects Ollie Peake and Jake Fraser-McGurk were also included, as were wicketkeepers Lachlan Shaw and Sam Harper with Mitchell Marsh captaining both the one-day and Twenty20 sides. These ODI and T20 matches provide several players, many of whom have had opportunities on recent tours, with a great chance to further demonstrate their ability against very strong opposition, said chairman of selectors George Bailey. Beardman, Peake, Edwards, Scott, Nikhil Chaudhary, and Joel Davies made their white-ball debuts in recent times. Harper and Shaw are the two uncapped players. They are good examples of players who have had an opportunity at the international level and have continued working on their game from what they learnt from those experiences, added Bailey. Australia play three home ODIs against England between November 13-18 followed by five T20s. They will provide an opportunity for Australia's next generation to stake their claims ahead of the 2027 World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia. With a home Test series against New Zealand to follow, star fast bowlers Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Josh Hazlewood are being rested after playing their part in Australia's 2-1 Test series defeat in South Africa. Fellow Test players Travis Head, Alex Carey, Matt Renshaw, Josh Inglis, Cooper Connolly and Cameron Green were named in the ODI squad, but will not play the T20s. Following the New Zealand series, Australia travel to India for five Tests before a 150th anniversary clash in Melbourne against England then an Ashes campaign. We are in the middle of a highly demanding phase of our schedule, said Bailey, referring to Australia's Test players. To manage this workload, each player's build-up to the New Zealand series will be carefully planned and focussed on individual's physical and mental preparation. One-day squad: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Alex Carey, Cooper Connolly, Jack Edwards, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Ollie Peake, Matt Renshaw, Liam Scott, Adam Zampa Also Read: Special Cricket Stories T20 squad: Mitchell Marsh (capt), Xavier Bartlett, Mahli Beardman, Nikhil Chaudhary, Tim David, Joel Davies, Jack Edwards, Nathan Ellis, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Sam Harper, Spencer Johnson, Mitch Owen, Lachlan Shaw, Adam Zampa
Injury woes for New Zealand! Chapman, Ravindra ruled out of India ODIs
New Zealand's ODI squad has been hit by a double injury blow, with key batters Mark Chapman and Rachin Ravindra ruled out of the upcoming five-match series against India due to hamstring and shoulder issues, respectively. Tim Seifert, Henry Nicholls, and Dean Foxcroft have been called up as replacements.
Rachin Ravindra And Mark Chapman To Miss India Odis, Seifert Called Up
New Zealand batters Rachin Ravindra and Mark Chapman were ruled out Monday for the upcoming five-match ODI series against India due to injury. Ravindra had been recovering from a freak shoulder injury suffered during a promotional shoot prior to the Indian series, which starts on Wednesday, and has been deemed unfit to field. Chapman had a hamstring strain which needs a further two weeks of rehabilitation, according to MRI scans. Everyone knows what an asset Mark and Rachin are to this side so it's a shame they have to miss this series, New Zealand coach Rob Walter said. Walter said Chapman was disappointed to miss the series, and Ravindra hasn't quite recovered to a position where he could field comfortably. He said Ravindra would return for the two-Test series starting later this month. Tim Seifert was initially named for the fourth and fifth matches of the series but will now be available for all matches, while Henry Nicholls has been called up days after scoring his 13th List A century for Canterbury in the domestic Ford Trophy. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Dean Foxcroft has also been called up for the last two matches of the series.
India vs New Zealand: Kiws Lose Two Top Stars Ahead Of ODI Series
After winning the five-match T20I series 3-2, India will face New Zealand in five ODIs, starting from November 4 in Auckland.
Australia rest Cummins, Starc, Hazlewood for England white-ball series
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No One Will Talk About It: Gautam Gambhir's Bold Batters vs Bowlers Comparison Ahead Of NZ ODIs
Gautam Gambhir said the team's inexperienced bowling attack should get all the credit if the visitors do well in the five-match ODI series against New Zealand starting on November 4.
Kimi Antonelli Becomes Youngest F1 Champion At 20, Max Verstappen Takes Mexico City GP Victory
Kimi Antonelli has made Formula 1 history by becoming the youngest world champion at the age of 20 years and 68 days. The Italian driver secured his first title after finishing third at the Mexico City Grand Prix. Antonelli
McDonald: Australia will 'reassess' Labuschagne selection and squad's 'age profile'
While Australia head coach conceded it would be difficult to talk up positives straight after a series defeat, he was adamant there had been development in the batting
