Cricket

IPL 2026: Bowlers Star As PBKS Continue Unbeaten Run With 54-run Win Over LSG

Lucknow Super Giants: In-form Punjab Kings extended their unbeaten streak in IPL 2026 with a clinical 54-run demolition of Lucknow Super Giants on Sunday. Defending a season-high total of 254/7, Marco Jansen finished with 2-37, while Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, and Vijaykumar Vyshak claimed one wicket apiece to ensure PBKS remained at the top of the points table. While opener Priyansh Arya (93 off 37 balls) and Australian southpaw Cooper Connolly (87 off 46 balls) set up the massive target with their blazing fifties, PBKS bowlers delivered a disciplined performance to restrict LSG to 200/5, despite some late sloppiness in the field. Chasing 255 was always going to be an uphill task for LSG and they went on this pursuit with their third opening combination Mitchell Marsh joining forces with Ayush Badoni. The duo did well to have a 61-run stand, but it wasnt enough to chase a steep target. Though Marsh, Rishabh Pant and Aiden Markram hit 40s each, none could convert it to a huge game-defining knock to give PBKS a scare. With the heavy defeat, LSG got their third straight loss and are now at number eight, with only Kolkata Knight Riders and Mumbai Indians behind them. LSGs experiment of opening Badoni with Marsh began well as they hit 10 boundaries in their opening stand going past fifty, before Vyshak broke the stand on the final ball of the powerplay by deceiving the former with a slower delivery that was comfortably caught by mid-wicket. Marsh and Pant then tried to inject momentum with the LSG skipper smoking Jansen for back-to-back sixes. But the introduction of Chahal tightened the screws with 20 runs coming off overs 9-11, he broke the threatening second-wicket partnership when Marsh dragged a flighted delivery straight to long-on. Pant continued his solo charge by smashing Chahal for consecutive sixes in the 12th over, but fell for a quick-fire 43 when his attempt to slice a wide yorker from Arshdeep led to him being caught behind, a decision confirmed by UltraEdge. Marsh and Pant then tried to inject momentum with the LSG skipper smoking Jansen for back-to-back sixes. But the introduction of Chahal tightened the screws with 20 runs coming off overs 9-11, he broke the threatening second-wicket partnership when Marsh dragged a flighted delivery straight to long-on. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Punjab Kings 254/7 in 20 overs (Priyansh Arya 93, Cooper Connolly 87; Prince Yadav 2-25, M Siddharth 2-35) beat Lucknow Super Giants 200/5 in 20 overs (Rishabh Pant 43, Aiden Markram 42; Marco Jansen 2-37, Vijaykumar Vyshak 1-30) by 54 runs Article Source: IANS

Don't Want To Make A Sweeping Statement: Varun Downplays Return To Form, Unbothered By outside Noise

Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy: Spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who returned to form with a decisive Player of the Match performance in Kolkata Knight Riders win over Rajasthan Royals, reflected on the challenging period leading up to the game. He stated that bowlers are bound to leak runs if the wicket isnt in their favour and expressed that there was nothing to worry about his form or the outside noise. Having endured scrutiny since an underwhelming outing in an ICC tournament fixture against South Africa, Varun placed his recent struggles in perspective, insisting that fluctuating returns are part and parcel of a bowlers journey in modern-day cricket. Look, just because I have taken three wickets today, I don't want to make a sweeping statement. That's the nature of the game. Next match, if the wicket has nothing in it, that's going to happen to every spinner. As you can see, initially, every spinner was travelling. So, that's how it is. Once the pitches start slowing down, that's how we start coming into the game and we start being more effective. So, it's the nature of the game and we can't change it. So, I don't think much about that, Varun told the media at the press conference after the game. Varun acknowledged that KKRs inconsistent results and external criticism may have influenced the teams approach at times, but stressed that the collective effort eventually paid off. Yes, there could be many things because we have not been winning and there is much outside noise which comes and which affects the players. But finally, we turned out in the better side today. We won the match. Yes, there are many areas for improvement, for sure. Because we started this tournament with many, as in many injuries and it actually crippled us before even the tournament started. So, I would like to give credit to the coaches, the head coach, Abhishek Nayar. If you are taking up a team in such conditions, you have a lot of work to do and you need a lot of courage for that. So, he has taken up the team from a very tough situation. So, it is going to take some time for build up. And I think, slowly, slowly, step by step, baby step, one win here, one win there, we will be back on track, he said. Highlighting the emotional weight of the victory, Varun revealed the impact it had inside the dressing room, saying, Very, very significant. I can say to you that I could see many tears today, which we did not see in the winning year, the year that we won the IPL in 2024 or so. here, inside the dressing room. I could see many tears. On the tactical front, the mystery spinner reiterated his reliance on attacking lines whenever conditions offered assistance. Once there is something in the pitch, I go back to my strength. My strength is to keep attacking the stumps. But if there is nothing in the pitch, that is when bowlers start searching, they start getting confused, they are clueless, which happens to everyone. It has happened to the best of the best. So, no one can be judged with just one match of good performance and bad performance, he said. Despite the modest first-innings total, Varun believed both teams misread the surface slightly. Generally, it does. Generally, it starts getting a bit slower. I am not telling it slows down so much. But today, I felt it was a 190 wicket. Both teams struggled with batting. As in, both teams were going too explosive. But where you could have just put your head down and played, it could have been done. So, you could have easily scored 190. So, that is what I thought. But again, this win is very important for us. In the next half of the IPL, we are going to build upon the positives that we got in this match, the mystery spinner mentioned. He also shed light on the tactical discussions around his bowling role and praised the team environment for shielding players from criticism. Yes, there was a lot of discussion on when I can start bowling in the powerplay or after the powerplay and all those things. But once I get back in form, I feel more confident. That was the whole plan behind it and Sunny has been doing well in the powerplay. But still, I think we will have the plans fluid. I might bowl in the powerplay or Sunny will bowl in the powerplay. But exactly, the main credit has to go to the coaching staff because they didn't let the outside noise affect us. Because there were too many people floating around with totally baseless judgments. At such times, you need a strong core that supports you and we have a very strong core that supports us, he noted. Varun also revealed that he has been managing multiple injuries during the tournament as he said, Yes, unfortunately, before the first match itself, I fractured one of my fingers. In another match, I fractured another finger. Left hand? Yes, two fractures. So, I couldn't use my left hand itself. Fielding was totally out of the question. I am still trying to manage but it is a little painful. Addressing speculation around changes in his bowling, he clarified that his core approach remains intact. I didn't say anything about speed. Speed is the same. When I was taking wickets, I didn't change anything in terms of speed. I didn't change anything in terms of length either. I am just changing the line. Line of attack. So, more cramping lines. Not in the fourth stump line, more cramping lines. Offside wide, leg side wide. I am working on all the lines right now. I am not just sticking on to stumps. I have not changed anything, he mentioned. Finally, he attributed earlier struggles largely to unhelpful conditions rather than technical flaws. There was no mistake. The pitch was like this. Because I am very tough on myself. If I don't do well, I go and pinpoint what is not there. Because the pitches were such that there was nothing for the spinners. If you see other spinners also, it was the same condition for everyone. So, it's nice that there is something for the spinners now. And hopefully, there is more for the spinners, Varun stated. Finally, he attributed earlier struggles largely to unhelpful conditions rather than technical flaws. Also Read: Live Cricket Score About the wicket, there has been a lot of to and fro about the wicket. I don't know who is deciding on what wicket is going to come. But we are ready for whatever wicket comes. We are just open to play on any wicket, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

2nd WT20I: Shafali Promises India Will come Back Harder After Defeat In Durban

BCCI Women: India opener Shafali Verma expressed regret over a mistimed shot that ended her stay at the crease at 57, but insisted that the team remains united and vowed the visitors will come back harder after suffering an eight-wicket defeat to South Africa in second T20I. Despite scoring a fluent 57, Shafalis dismissal saw India lose their way and were eventually bowled out for a below-par 147, which South Africa chased it down with eight wickets to spare. In the beginning, I got a very good start. Then I was just thinking to go for shots down the ground, take one run at a time, and then whenever I will get a loose ball, I will go for that. I just saw the scorecard and thought I will get the ball over cover, but that was a mistimed shot and then I got out. I would have done more, maybe if I stayed till 18th over. I should have just stayed calm, Shafali said in the post-match press conference. Trailing 0-2 in the five-match series, Shafali stated that the squad's strength lies in their collective resolve to make a comeback. Well, of course, nothing much. We all know our strength. We will just come back hard and we will just stand shoulder to shoulder and we will practice more and practice hard. We have two days break and we will get back together and we will do well and we will come back harder, she added. The match also marked a personal milestone for Shafali, who became the youngest Indian cricketer to reach the 100-game mark in T20Is. While acknowledging her achievement, she credited the Proteas for their clinical performance Playing 100 games for India is a very proud feeling for myself. Talking about their team, they batted really well and they have done very well in all three formats. So, I will say we will come back hard and we will give our best for the third game. The match also marked a personal milestone for Shafali, who became the youngest Indian cricketer to reach the 100-game mark in T20Is. While acknowledging her achievement, she credited the Proteas for their clinical performance Also Read: Live Cricket Score Well, it's not a technical issue. We have really done hard work in the fielding and fitness. We are giving our 100 percent and in our hand, it's just giving 100 percent and we are doing that. Hopefully, we will come back hard and we will not do that mistake again, she concluded. Article Source: IANS

'I Am Playing For My Country': Rashid Khan On Rejecting India, Australia Citizenship Offers

Kolkata Knight Riders: Rashid Khan has shared that he turned down offers of citizenship from both India and Australia. He chose to stay committed to representing Afghanistan. The star leg-spinner revealed this in his book, Rashid Khan: From Streets to Stardom. He recounted an incident from the 2023 IPL season. A team official told him that a senior figure from Indian cricket wanted to meet him. Rashid remembered the conversation. He said, I went over and greeted him. We started talking, and he said: The situation in your country (Afghanistan) is very bad. Come stay in India. We will give you Indian documents, live here, play cricket here. I was surprised by what he was saying and didnt know how to respond. But I smiled and said, Thank you very much. I am playing for my country, Afghanistan. Rashid also mentioned that such offers weren't unique to one country. I received such offers (citizenship and playing) from both Australia and India. But I told them, If I dont play for my country, I wont play for any other country either, he wrote, emphasizing his strong loyalty to Afghanistan. The 25-year-old reflected on a similar episode from 2018 while with Sunrisers Hyderabad. After a match-winning performance against Kolkata Knight Riders, social media in India was filled with calls for him to get citizenshipshowing the significant admiration he had already earned. Khan also celebrated a special moment off the field by sharing the news of his sons birth in an emotional social media post, introducing the newborn as Aslan. The 25-year-old reflected on a similar episode from 2018 while with Sunrisers Hyderabad. After a match-winning performance against Kolkata Knight Riders, social media in India was filled with calls for him to get citizenshipshowing the significant admiration he had already earned. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sharing his joy, Rashid wrote on Instagram, Alhamdulillah. Welcome to the world, my little prince, and asked well-wishers to keep his family in their prayers. The post quickly drew congratulatory messages from fellow cricketers and members of the cricketing fraternity, reflecting the admiration he enjoys across the sport. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Arya, Connolly Hit Blazing Fifties, Power PBKS To 254/7 Against LSG

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Blazing half-centuries from opener Priyansh Arya (93 off 37 balls) and Australian southpaw Cooper Connolly (87 off 46 balls) powered Punjab Kings (PBKS) to a humongous 254/7 in their IPL 2026 clash against Lucknow Super Giants on Sunday. At a packed Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Arya and Connolly produced a breathtaking display of modern-day power-hitting while sharing a 182-run second-wicket partnership and shatter LSGs bowling rhythm to post the highest score of this season. With the aim to send every ball past the boundary ropes, Priyansh hit four boundaries and nine sixes at will, while Connolly matched him step by step by smashing eight fours and seven sixes. Though they lost wickets at the back end, the Arya-Connolly efforts meant PBKS crossed 250-mark. For LSG, Prince Yadav was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2-25, while the rest of the bowling attack conceded 226 runs in 16 overs. Opting to bowl first, veteran Mohammed Shami provided the perfect start by dismissing Prabhsimran Singh for a duck through a wobble seam delivery. But the joy was short-lived as Arya welcomed Mohsin Khan with a massive six over mid-wicket to signal his intent. While Connolly was initially scratchy, crawling to 19 off 22 balls, Arya kept the momentum high with relentless boundary-hitting to reach his fifty in just 19 deliveries. Connolly eventually found his range to hit a 35-ball fifty. The duo saved their most brutal assault for Aiden Markram, milking the part-time off-spinner for 32 runs in the 13th over, including five sixes. The breakthrough finally came when Prince induced a top edge from Connolly and end his stay at 87. Arya looked set for reaching a well-deserved century, but fell seven runs short of it after being caught at long-off by Mitchell Marsh off Manimaran Siddharth. A brief middle-order wobble saw Shreyas Iyer and Nehal Wadhera depart in quick succession as LSG began to claw back. But the momentum stayed with the hosts as Marcus Stoinis (29 off 16 balls) and Shashank Singh (17 off 6 balls) unleashed a late barrage. The breakthrough finally came when Prince induced a top edge from Connolly and end his stay at 87. Arya looked set for reaching a well-deserved century, but fell seven runs short of it after being caught at long-off by Mitchell Marsh off Manimaran Siddharth. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Punjab Kings 254/7 in 20 overs (Priyansh Arya 93, Cooper Connolly 87; Prince Yadav 2-25, M Siddharth 2-35) against Lucknow Super Giants Article Source: IANS

2nd WT20I: Didnt Bat Well In Last Ten Overs, Need To Think For Next Three Games, Says Harmanpreet

Match Chloe Tryon: After suffering an eight-wicket defeat to South Africa in the second T20I, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur admitted that the side didnt bat well in the last ten overs of their innings and that a lot of thinking needs to happen for their approach in the last three matches. A middle-order batting collapse led to India being bowled out for 147, despite Shafali Verma hitting 57 in her 100th T20I game. Then a poor bowling effort and sloppy time in fielding meant South Africa completed the chase with 17 balls to spare, thanks to half-centuries from skipper Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus and take a 2-0 lead in the five-game series. I think with the bat, we were not able to contribute the way we wanted. In the last ten overs of the innings we did not bat well. We need to think about how we go about the next three matches. Powerplay, while bowling, is not going our way. Tough time. We as a team need to stay together, Harmanpreet said during the post-match presentation ceremony. She also felt better strike rotation could have arrested the mid-innings slide for India. When you're not getting the shots, rotating strike is a key point. We were discussing... we can rotate strike and it can help us through that time. But it's a time when things didn't work. Shafali has been a great talent for us. Attacking batter. Hope she'll continue for us, she added. Looking ahead to the third game in Johannesburg, Harmanpreet said, New place, hopefully we'll go with a positive approach. The T20 format is like that: it's about staying together. Laura, meanwhile praised her sides discipline, particularly the death bowling which had been a point of concern previously. Pretty good catching, one or two put down, but we took one or two good ones as well. After the start they had, restricting them was great. The area we struggled with last season (death bowling), bowlers identified bowling slower ones into the wicket was helping, she said She also noted the teams improved mental awareness when on field. It's something we've talked a lot about. Being present on the cricket field. Little things showing on the field. Change of venue (for next two games), we'll have an assessment, see how it plays, great position to be in. But India, world champs in ODI cricket, they'll come back pretty hard. Switch off tomorrow and then be ready for the next one. She also noted the teams improved mental awareness when on field. It's something we've talked a lot about. Being present on the cricket field. Little things showing on the field. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Happy to play at home... I was happy I could help the team today. Well, it was good today, and I had a lot of fun, so I'm happy that I did this for him today. But he's been a big help for me. He's watched me, and all his knowledge has helped me, she said. Article Source: IANS

Laura Wolvaardt, Sune Luus Power South Africa Women to Dominant Win, Take 2-0 Series Lead

Skipper Laura Wolvaardt and Sune Luus struck commanding half-centuries each as a clinical South Africa Women thrashed a sloppy India by eight wickets and secured a 2-0 lead in the five-match series at Kingsmead on Sunday. Chasing a below-par 148, the Proteas openers made a mockery of the Indian attack with a 106-run stand. Laura led from the front by finding gaps with immaculate ease and smashed a 34-ball 54, laced with seven fours and a six, while Luus remained equally effective by hitting 57 off 46 deliveries, studded with six fours and a maximum. After the duo fell to Shreyanka Patil, Tazmin Brits (20 not out) and Annerie Dercksen (12 not out) wrapped up the proceedings with 17 balls to spare to get a comprehensive win for the Proteas. It also helped that Indian bowlers werent penetrative enough, gave away too many runs in fielding lapses and middle order collapse meant they failed to capitalise on the good start provided by Shafali Vermas 57. The chase began with intent as Laura greeted Kranti Gaud with a crisp boundary through backward point in the opening over. Shreyanka Patil was introduced in the second over but fared no better, as Laura stepped out to drive her through mid-off for another four, before the Proteas captain creamed Kranti Gaud for a boundary. Sune joined the party in the fourth over, clearing the long-on ropes for the first six of the chase off Shreyanka. By the time the Powerplay concluded, South Africa had raced to 66/0, with Deepti Sharma conceding 12 runs in her opening over. With India prone to misfields, Laura reached her fifty off 30 balls by creaming Arundhati over extra cover. But she fell in the 12th over, caught by Arundhati at long-on off Shreyanka. But the damage was already done Sune reached her own half-century off 41 balls after having effectively countered the Indian spinners. Sune joined the party in the fourth over, clearing the long-on ropes for the first six of the chase off Shreyanka. By the time the Powerplay concluded, South Africa had raced to 66/0, with Deepti Sharma conceding 12 runs in her opening over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 147 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 57, Anushka Sharma 28; Chloe Tryon 3-22, Tumi Sekhukhune 3-31) lost to South Africa 148/2 in 17.1 overs (Sune Luus 57, Laura Wolvaardt 54; Shreyanka Patil 2-35) by eight wickets. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Lot Of Positives, This Will Give Us Confidence, Says Rahane After KKRs First Win Of Season

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders skipper Ajinkya Rahane expressed relief and satisfaction after his side finally opened their account in IPL 2026, crediting the collective effort while singling out Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy and Varun Chakravarthy for their impact in a tense win. Feels really good. There were a lot of emotions going on during the game, but personally, I'm really happy for Rinku Singh, Anukul Roy, and Varun Chakravarthy as well. The way he bowled in the middle today, Varun was going through a tough phase, but last three games, he's been bowling fantastically, Rahane said after the win. He highlighted how both Rinku and Varun had worked through difficult phases, making their contributions in this win even more significant. Rinku Singh again, he was going through a tough phase mentally. Really happy to see him finishing the game. And Anukul Roy, he had a fantastic domestic season, very confident guy. We wanted to give him that opportunity. Today, he couldn't bowl because of the left-hand-right-hand combination. But really happy to see how both of them, they batted that partnership for us, Rahane stated. The KKR captain also shed light on his leadership style, emphasising individual conversations and simplicity in approach Most of the practice sessions, we do have common conversation. I like to have one-on-one conversation rather than talking in the groups. Even all the coaches, they've been talking to the players. It's about reading the situation well. I feel cricket is a simple game. If you keep it really simple, rather than thinking far too ahead, he said. Rahane believed the win could be a turning point for the team, especially given the improvements already visible in their bowling unit. I thought this victory will probably give us that confidence as a team because bowling-wise, I felt we've been doing really well. Last three games, the bowlers are coming nicely together. They're bowling in partnership, bowling as a unit. Batting-wise, yes, there are areas we can still improve. But again, as I said, there's lots to take positively from this game. So, really happy with the victory, he noted. He also had special praise for young pacer Kartik Tyagi, who has impressed with his clarity and execution. Fantastic, he's been really good from the practice games which we played. Since then, he's been really clear about his ability, what he wants to do in the middle. As a captain, when you have a guy like that who's really clear coming and playing after a very long time, he's still young. But the confidence which he has in his ability to what he wants to bowl in different kind of situations has been amazing. He bowled in the death overs, bowling in those middle overs as well, sometimes tough overs. So, really happy to see Kartik Tyagi gaining that confidence as a young fast bowler. And the pace which he's bowling has been fantastic, Rahane said on Tyagis three-wicket haul. On the batting approach, Rahane stressed the need for better awareness and adaptability, especially after a string of poor powerplay performances. There's lots to learn from every game. As I said, batting-wise, yes, we had a bad powerplay last three games, basically not good, but again, that's where the cricketing awareness comes in as a team, as a batting unit. Sometimes I feel strike rate is overrated. Wicket like this, you just have to focus on the singles, still keep the intent, but have those singles and doubles. It's not about going out there and hitting big sixes, the skipper mentioned. While acknowledging that the win came after some nervy moments, Rahane called it a timely wake-up call for the batting group, saying, I think if we can have that cricketing awareness, take the game deep, and we saw what happened today. Last couple of games, yes, we made those errors, but that can happen. This was a great escape for us, I would say, that partnership from Rinku and Anukul, but as a batting unit, we need to learn very quickly. Looking ahead, Rahane emphasised reflection and honest communication within the squad. Thankfully, we'll get those five, six extra days now before the next game, and those days will be really good, but we need to reflect, we need to learn what errors we have made, because as I said, cricketing God gives you that one opportunity. And I thought tonight's game was such that as a team, we have to come together, probably be honest with each other, and have that clear communication, he expressed. He also lauded the team environment and preparation, while underlining the importance of execution. Apart from that, everything has been really good, like preparation, the attitude from boys, the atmosphere we have inside the dressing room has been amazing, but it's just simple things where cricket demands. You just have to deliver that, the 37-year-old said. He also lauded the team environment and preparation, while underlining the importance of execution. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The fans have been fantastic throughout here, they come here and support. Last five games were really bad for us, but this victory belongs to them. This victory belongs to the fans, as I said. They have been amazing, very positive. Once we enter the stadium, you get that positive vibe, those loud chants and the atmosphere, that energy has been fantastic, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Stability vs lack thereof as Gujarat Titans host Mumbai Indians

Rohit Sharma is fit again and expected to slot back into the top of the order for Mumbai Indians

IPL 2026: My Mindset Was To Take The Game Deep, Says Rinku After Guiding KKR To First Win

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders vice-captain Rinku Singh credited a calm and calculated approach for his match-winning knock, saying his focus was always on taking the game deep as the side finally registered their first win of the IPL 2026 season by defeating Rajasthan Royals by four wickets at Eden Gardens on Sunday. Coming in at a tense phase of the chase, Rinku anchored the innings and held one end firm despite wickets falling around him, eventually steering KKR home with a composed half-century. Reflecting on his on-field intensity, Rinku said it stemmed from the situation rather than any frustration. Sometimes it happens like that when a few things dont go your way, so you feel that intensity. But it wasnt like I was hesitating or unsure about playing my shots. My mindset was to take the game till the end because I had conversations with the coach and also with my batting partner. The idea was to take it deep since the match was in a tricky situation, he said after the game. The left-hander also survived an early scare in his innings, a moment he admitted could have gone either way as he said, Thats what happens sometimes, sir. In that moment, the mind doesnt work properly and you end up playing such shots. But thankfully, luck was on my side and we eventually won the match. Having endured a string of low scores earlier in the season, Rinku acknowledged the importance of this innings for his own confidence. I had played quite a few innings and was waiting for a big one. This was a very good innings for me and also very important for my confidence, he stated. Rinkus knock came at a crucial juncture for KKR, who were under pressure after a string of defeats and a shaky start in the chase. His partnership with Anukul Roy proved decisive, as the duo absorbed pressure before accelerating in the death overs. Speaking about his batting role, Rinku emphasised flexibility and team-first thinking saying, Theres nothing like a fixed position for me. I can bat at number five, lower down the order, or even at number four. Wherever the team needs me, Im ready to bat in that position. Rinkus knock came at a crucial juncture for KKR, who were under pressure after a string of defeats and a shaky start in the chase. His partnership with Anukul Roy proved decisive, as the duo absorbed pressure before accelerating in the death overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR chased down the target in a tense finish, with Rinkus unbeaten 53-run knock proving to be the difference in a game that swung both ways before the hosts held their nerve at the death. Article Source: IANS

Sultans survive Abbas and Hasan's onslaught to clinch high-scoring game

Kings bowled out for 196 in pursuit of 208, as Minhas (3 for 32) and Siddle (2 for 28) starred for Sultans

Five UAE cricketers given citizenship through naturalisation

Khuzaima Tanveer, Ajay Kumar, Akshdeep Nath, Harpreet Bhatia and Adeeb Usmani are the players with UAE citizenship

IPL 2026: Silly Errors From Our Side, No Excuses, Says Parag After RRs Defeat To KKR

Kolkata Knight Riders: Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag admitted that his side let a winnable game slip through their fingers, pointing to fielding lapses and execution errors as key reasons behind their defeat to Kolkata Knight Riders in Sundays IPL 2026 clash at Eden Gardens. Reflecting on the first innings, Parag felt his team fell short with the bat despite reading the conditions well early on. I think like the first four or five overs we assessed, the was a 170-run wicket, so we were 10 under par for starters. And then I think the way we clawed back, the effort the bowlers put in, I'll say, and it was our game. No excuses there. We can't be dropping catches, we can't be bowling lines that help the batters. So, silly errors from our side. But this was our game, he said after the game. Despite being slightly under par, Rajasthans bowlers brought them back into contention, particularly through spin, a tactical call Parag stood by. I think there was a lot of spin in the wicket (on not bowling Brijesh and the other pacers until late). And the way Bishnoi and Poonja bowl is different. I felt that spin was what the situation required. And that's why I went with it. When it works out, it looks nice. But then I felt it worked out today as well. And then just a few errors here and there. And that's the point, he noted. Parag also elaborated on his decision-making regarding bowling changes, especially the delay in using pacer Brijesh Sharma. I think he was almost there to bowl, I feel, the 14th and the 16th as well. But then they lost wickets and then they were two left-handers. So I got myself in and the spinners were going really well. So I chose to trust those spinners that we might, you know, get a slog or something to get a wicket. We almost did that. And once that Bishnoi's over was done, I felt, okay, spinners might go here because of the left-hand combinations. And I felt Brijesh will go 18 and 20th over, Parag stated. On the batting front, the 24-year-old acknowledged that the middle-order buildup was in line with the plan, but the finishing phase didnt go as intended. The way the middle order executed today, I think they all set a platform for them. Me and Hetty, we took 10-15 balls each and then when it was time to go, we missed. So I think the game plan was there collectively during the time was we felt, like I said, it was a 170 wicket and we would give ourselves some time and go for the last five overs. We tried doing that, didn't really come off, but I'm happy with the way the boys are thinking, he mentioned. While disappointed with the result, Parag remained optimistic about the teams approach going forward, as he said, I feel, again, a few errors here and there and that's also true, boys. Hopefully next game, we could have a clinical game for you all. He also reserved praise for young bowler Yash Punja, backing him to grow into a key asset for the franchise. While disappointed with the result, Parag remained optimistic about the teams approach going forward, as he said, I feel, again, a few errors here and there and that's also true, boys. Hopefully next game, we could have a clinical game for you all. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals posted a competitive total in the first innings but KKR eventually chased it down, with Rinku Singh and Anukul Roys late heroics sealing a tense final-over win for the hosts. Article Source: IANS

Rinku, Anukul, spinners earn first win for KKR

After Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy bowled frugal spells to share five wickets, the KKR middle and lower order saw them home

IPL 2026: LSG Will Really Get This Tournament Started When Openers Click, Says Langer

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants head coach Justin Langer said the teams campaign would gain momentum once the opening pair of Mitchell Marsh and Aiden Markram fire on all cylinders in IPL 2026. Marsh and Markram, who had a productive 2025, are yet to fire in unison in the ongoing tournament. Whats exciting for us is when they (openers) get going, we know how destructive they can be. Our bowling units been excellent. Our fielding units been very good. Havent quite got going yet, but Im really confident, with great players, its never far off. So lets hope they can click tonight and well really get this tournament started when that happens, Langer remarked in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. He stressed on Nicholas Poorans commitment to routines and processes in a bid to get back to form. What we know is that even the great players, whether theyre making runs or not, they continue to work hard on their game. Nickys (Pooran's) working so hard on his game. Its a matter of him switching back into the routines that he knows work. The great thing about experience is you know the processes that work. So sometimes your mind can get a little muddy by the past or what might happen in the future. When they click back in with some clarity, then we know how great players they are. So thats what were excited about. Thats what were working on, he said. On young wicketkeeper-batter Mukul Choudhary, Langer was effusive in his praise. What a player he is. What a great kid. Another one, you look in his eyes, hes so hungry. Hes so hungry to do well, an amazing athlete. He wicket-keeps, but he also comes out and fields like hes one of the best fielders youve ever seen. The great thing about experience is you know the processes that work. So sometimes your mind can get a little muddy by the past or what might happen in the future. When they click back in with some clarity, then we know how great players they are. So thats what were excited about. Thats what were working on, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He also confirmed Rishabh Pants readiness for the clash against Punjab Kings after a minor elbow injury led to him retiring hurt against RCB. He (Pant) got a bump on the elbow the other day. When you think about Rishabh Pant, what hes been through in his life with his body, a little knock on the elbow from a cricket ball, is a childs play. So hes back in. Hes ready to go and hes very determined to do well for us. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Rinku, Anukul Script Dramatic Turnaround As KKR Beat RR By 4 Wickets To Seal First Win

Debutant Yash Raj Punja: After a torrid start to their IPL 2026 campaign, Kolkata Knight Riders finally found relief as Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy held their nerve in a tense finish to guide the side to their first win of the season, chasing down a modest target against Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on Sunday. In a chase that began disastrously, KKR were reduced to 2/2 in the first two overs. Jofra Archer struck off the very first ball to remove Tim Seifert, while Nandre Burger followed it up by dismissing skipper Ajinkya Rahane for a second consecutive duck. The early collapse continued to haunt KKR as wickets fell at regular intervals, leaving them reeling at 84 for 5 by the 13th over. Cameron Green briefly counter-attacked with a brisk 27 off 13 balls, while Rovman Powell added 23, but Rajasthans spin duo, led by Ravindra Jadeja (2/8), kept the scoring in check through the middle overs. Debutant Yash Raj Punja also made an impact, picking up his maiden IPL wicket and maintaining control after an expensive start. At 97 for 6 in the 15th over, the game seemed to be slipping away from KKR. However, Rinku Singh and Anukul Roy stitched together a match-defining partnership for the seventh wicket, blending caution with calculated aggression. The turning point came in the 16th over when Anukul took on Ravi Bishnoi, smashing a six to inject momentum into the chase. Rinku, who had struggled initially and even survived a dropped catch, gradually found his rhythm, rotating strike effectively before unleashing boundaries at crucial moments. With 40 needed off the last four overs, the duo steadily chipped away at the target. Rinku took charge against Jofra Archer in the 17th over, finding gaps and keeping the equation within reach. Anukul complemented him perfectly, including a towering six off Archer in the 18th over that swung the pressure back onto the Royals. Needing 21 off the last two overs, the pair showed composure under pressure. Anukuls smart running and timely hits, combined with Rinkus calculated strokeplay, brought the equation down to nine off the final over. Facing Brijesh Sharma in the 20th over, Rinku sealed the contest in dramatic fashion. After striking two boundaries early in the over, he brought up his half-century with a top-edged six that sailed over the keeper, sparking wild celebrations at Eden Gardens as KKR completed a memorable win with two balls to spare. Rinku remained unbeaten, anchoring the chase with a composed unbeaten half-century (53*), while Anukuls valuable cameo (29 not out) provided the perfect support in the closing stages. Earlier, Rajasthan Royals had posted a competitive total on the back of disciplined batting, but KKRs bowlers, especially Varun Chakaravarthy, Kartik Tyagi and Sunil Narine, managed to restrict them from posting an imposing score. Despite that, KKRs batting frailties nearly cost them again before Rinku and Anukul turned the tide. Rinku remained unbeaten, anchoring the chase with a composed unbeaten half-century (53*), while Anukuls valuable cameo (29 not out) provided the perfect support in the closing stages. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Rajasthan Royals 155/9 in 20 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 46, Yashasvi Jaiswal 39; Varun Chakaravarthy 3-14, Kartik Tyagi 3-22) lost to Kolkata Knight Riders (Rinku Singh 53*, Anukul Roy 29*; Ravindra Jadeja 2-8, Yash Punja 1-25) by four wickets. Article Source: IANS

2nd WT20I: Batting Meltdown Results In India Skittled Out For 147 Despite Shafali's Fifty

For South Africa: A sensational half-century by opener Shafali Verma in her 100th T20I game was offset by a dramatic batting collapse as India were bundled out for a modest 147 in exactly 20 overs against South Africa in the second T20I at the Kingsmead on Sunday. From a position of relative comfort at 99/3, India lost their last seven wickets for just 33 runs to end at a below-par total. Their batting implosion handed the momentum back to the Proteas, who now require 148 runs to win and take a commanding 2-0 lead in the five-match series. Shafali hit 57 off 38 balls and was sensational in hitting seven fours and two sixes and be the lone bright spot in an otherwise disappointing batting display. The middle order minus debutant Anushka Sharma, who struggled to hit 28 on a slow pitch, never got going to boost India to a big total. For South Africa, Tumi Sekhukhune and Chloe Tryon picked excellent three-fors, and used the slower balls and good length area to great effect. Shafali started with typical aggression, smoking Tumi Sekhukhune for a six in the very first over. Her Smriti Mandhana (12) looked fluent with three boundaries off Ayabonga Khaka, before falling to Chloe while attempting a sweep. After Jemimah Rodrigues fell cheaply to Chloe, Anushka joined Shafali to steady the ship with a 53-run stand. However, Anushka struggled for rhythm on a slowing pitch, managing a sluggish 28 off 31 balls, even as Shafali, dropped on 28, got her 15th T20I fifty off 31 balls. Once the partnership was broken in the 13th over when Anushka holed out to deep mid-wicket off Chloe, the floodgates opened for South Africa. Shafali followed shortly after, caught brilliantly by a diving Nadine de Klerk at long-off. The middle and lower order offered little resistance against the disciplined South African attack. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur (12) was run out due to a sharp piece of glovework by keeper Sinalo Jafta, while Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh and Shreyanka Patil perished in quick succession. Once the partnership was broken in the 13th over when Anushka holed out to deep mid-wicket off Chloe, the floodgates opened for South Africa. Shafali followed shortly after, caught brilliantly by a diving Nadine de Klerk at long-off. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 147 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 57, Anushka Sharma 28; Chloe Tryon 3-22, Tumi Sekhukhune 3-31) against South Africa Article Source: IANS

LSG choose to bowl against table-toppers PBKS

PBKS made no changes to their team, while LSG brought in Mohsin Khan for his second game of the season

IPL 2026: Siddharth Comes In As LSG Elect To Bowl First Against Unchanged PBKS

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Left-arm spinner M Siddharth comes in for Lucknow Super Giants as captain Rishabh Pant won the toss and elected to bowl first against an unchanged Punjab Kings at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. PBKS arrive into their home game after a strong win over Mumbai Indians extended their unbeaten record, whereas LSG come under a bit of pressure after suffering back-to-back defeats. After winning the toss, Pant said Siddharth comes in place of mystery spinner Digvesh Rathi. Coming here, we want them to set a total for us. They've been one of the best team in the tournament, but at the same time, it gives us that freedom that we can play more freely with them. Generally, I feel, playing for 220 runs is better than playing for 200 sometimes. Much better (on his elbow injury), he said. PBKS skipper Shreyas Iyer said he didnt mind losing the toss. I feel it's a great challenge for us since we haven't batted first so far. I had mentioned that when you are getting better it's about us vs us. A comprehensive win is what need to fulfil. The boundary dimensions are compact: 61 metres square boundary on the off side, 70 metres towards square leg region, 73 metres straight down the ground, and 74 metres to cow corner. Abhinav Mukund and Eoin Morgan opined the grass covering and occasional cracks on the surface means theres help for fast bowlers, and with the curator confirming no dew, so the toss will not be decisive, though a high-scoring contest maybe on cards. Playing XIs: Lucknow Super Giants: Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant (captain and wk), Ayush Badoni, Nicholas Pooran, Mukul Choudhary, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Prince Yadav, M Siddharth, and Mohsin Khan Impact Substitutes: Himmat Singh, Abdul Samad, Matthew Breetzke, Mayank Yadav, and Digvesh Rathi Lucknow Super Giants: Mitchell Marsh, Aiden Markram, Rishabh Pant (captain and wk), Ayush Badoni, Nicholas Pooran, Mukul Choudhary, Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, Prince Yadav, M Siddharth, and Mohsin Khan Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact Substitutes: Vyshak Vijaykumar, Harpreet Brar, Suyansh Shedge, Yash Thakur, and Vishnu Vinod Article Source: IANS

Varun Chakaravarthy Becomes Fastest Indian Spinner To Take 200 T20 Wickets

Indian Premier League: Varun Chakaravarthy etched his name in the history books as he became the fastest Indian spinner to reach 200 wickets in T20 cricket on Sunday. The landmark came during an Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash between his side, Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), and Rajasthan Royals (RR) at Eden Gardens, where Chakravarthy struck in his very first over. He removed young batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who mistimed a big shot off a well-flighted delivery and was caught in the deep by Ramandeep Singh. That wicket not only gave KKR an early breakthrough but also took Chakravarthy past the 200-wicket mark in record time among all Indian spinners in T20 cricket. Chakravarthy went on to finish with outstanding figures of 3 for 14, also dismissing Riyan Parag and Yashasvi Jaiswal to break the backbone of the Rajasthan Royals batting line-up. His spell proved decisive in controlling the match as RR scored just 159 runs in 20 overs. Across Indian bowlers in T20 cricket, only a few have reached the 200-wicket milestone quickly, but Chakravarthy stands out as the fastest spinner to do so. He reached the landmark in just 155 innings, ahead of several established names in Indian cricket. Chakravarthy went on to finish with outstanding figures of 3 for 14, also dismissing Riyan Parag and Yashasvi Jaiswal to break the backbone of the Rajasthan Royals batting line-up. His spell proved decisive in controlling the match as RR scored just 159 runs in 20 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Across his IPL career, Chakravarthy has taken 105 wickets in 89 matches at an average of 24.17, with an economy rate of 7.65. In the current season, he has picked up five wickets in five games at an average of 30.60. In T20Is, he has claimed 73 wickets from 45 matches at 16.61 apiece with an economy of 7.55, including two five-wicket hauls for India Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Rahane Sets Unwanted Record For Most Ducks As Opener

Kolkata Knight Riders: Ajinkya Rahane endured another forgettable outing in IPL 2026, registering a two-ball duck and in the process becoming the player with the most ducks as an opener in the tournaments history during Kolkata Knight Riders clash against Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on Sunday. Rahanes dismissal came early in KKRs chase of 156, when he fell in just the second over to Nandre Burger. Attempting to cut a short delivery outside off, Rahane was undone by extra bounce, edging the ball behind to Dhruv Jurel, who completed a straightforward catch. The early blow left KKR reeling at two wickets down within the first eight balls. The dismissal marked Rahanes second consecutive duck this season and his 12th as an opener in IPL history, pushing him past Parthiv Patel (11) to the top of an unwanted list. Notably, Rahane now sits ahead of names like Shikhar Dhawan, Gautam Gambhir and David Warner in this regard. Rahanes form this season has been inconsistent, with his scores reading 67, 8, 8*, 41, 28, 0 and 0. While he has shown glimpses of fluency, the lack of consistency at the top has hurt KKRs starts. Adding to the hosts woes, both KKR openers were dismissed for ducks in this match, a rare occurrence in IPL history. This is only the 13th instance of both openers falling without scoring in an innings and the first such case for KKR since Gautam Gambhir and Jacques Kallis suffered the same fate back in 2014. Tim Seifert and Rahane found their way back to the pavilion in the first and second overs of the chase, putting immediate pressure on the middle order. Earlier, Rajasthan Royals posted 155/9 after being put in to bat, a total that looked well below par at one stage, given their strong start. Yashasvi Jaiswal (39) and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (46) stitched together an 81-run opening stand, laying a solid platform. Adding to the hosts woes, both KKR openers were dismissed for ducks in this match, a rare occurrence in IPL history. This is only the 13th instance of both openers falling without scoring in an innings and the first such case for KKR since Gautam Gambhir and Jacques Kallis suffered the same fate back in 2014. Tim Seifert and Rahane found their way back to the pavilion in the first and second overs of the chase, putting immediate pressure on the middle order. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite restricting Rajasthan to a modest total, KKRs chase got off to a disastrous start, once again highlighting their struggles this season. Still winless in the tournament so far, the Kolkata-based franchise will need a swift turnaround if they are to keep their playoff hopes alive. Article Source: IANS

'Incredibly excessive' - Blessing Muzarabani's agent on PSL ban

The agent denied that a binding agreement between the league and the player had been reached before Muzarabani ultimately opted to sign a contract with the IPL

2nd WT20I: Indias Batting Depth Gives Top Order Batters To Express Ourselves, Says Jemimah

Jemimah Rodrigues: India batter Jemimah Rodrigues believes that the team's enhanced batting depth has provided the top order with the license to be aggressive in T20Is, asserting that the lineup will be scary for any opposition once it fires in unison. India lost the first T20I to South Africa by six wickets at Kingsmead and are aiming to square the series on Sunday. It gives us the freedom to go out there and play, and take on the bowling. Cricket is all about taking risks at the right time. Depth has given us the license to go out there and express ourselves, and we know that the day that we get it right this batting order is going to be scary for the opposition, said Jemimah in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Known for her infectious energy on and off the field, Jemimah noted her natural temperament plays a significant role in her performance. For me it's all about enjoying my sport and enjoying what I do. Naturally I'm a bubbly person, full of joy and positivity, and I just like to be myself. I'm just glad that God's given me that quality that it spreads out to people as well. Asked about handling the pressure of international competition, Jemimah said she looks to thrive when the stakes are highest. For me pressure is what gets the best out of me. Whenever I've been up against the wall, that's when I've always come back and performed well. Also I like to prepare for the worst of worst situations. When you put yourself under pressure in practice, it helps you to come out in a match situation and express yourself. It's all about working hard and doing the right things at the right time. South Africas seam-bowling all-rounder Annerie Dercksen said she is happy to bat at number four, a role which she has got due to illness to Marizanne Kapp and injury to Dane van Niekerk. At the moment just number four with the bat. Looking forward I'll have to see, I'm just happy to contribute anyway for the team, she said. With the focus shifting to spin-friendly tracks, Annerie highlighted the specific work the Proteas have put in to counter spinners. We've been fortunate to play a lot of subcontinent teams recently; Pakistan was over here recently as well. South Africas seam-bowling all-rounder Annerie Dercksen said she is happy to bat at number four, a role which she has got due to illness to Marizanne Kapp and injury to Dane van Niekerk. At the moment just number four with the bat. Looking forward I'll have to see, I'm just happy to contribute anyway for the team, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Reflecting on the series opener against India, Annerie felt the team was close to their best but identified specific windows for improvement. Thought it was almost a complete performance against India in the previous game; there were a few periods with the ball that we are looking to improve, but I thought our fielding was pretty good. Also with the bat, be a bit more clinical. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'A Couple Of Overs Changed The Game,' Says Klaasen After SRH Win Over CSK

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Heinrich Klaasen praised the bowlers for staying calm and composed in pressure situation after Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) pulled off a thrilling 10-run win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in match 27 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday, saying that a couple of overs with wickets changed the course of the game. Chasing a 200 score, you only need a couple of overs to pull it back, and thats exactly what weve done with a couple of quick wickets. The boys hung in there, he said in a video released by SRH on X. Thats our plan,to hang on for as long as we can, and then the momentum will change when its important. The boys executed extremely well at the back end. Unbelievable skillset and very calm under pressure, he added. SRH earlier posted 194/9 on a good batting surface, riding on half-centuries from Klaasen and Abhishek Sharma. Despite a strong start, they lost momentum in the latter half and fell short of the 220-plus total they were aiming for. However, SRHs bowlers turned the game around during the chase. CSK got off to a brisk start, but timely wickets helped shift the momentum. Klassen believes that winning from a tricky situation is very good, and he enjoys pressure conditions. Yeah, another tricky situation, but I enjoy those moments. But as I said earlier, I would exchange a couple of runs for another win on the board. So, very happy with where I am personally, but yeah, its a hell of a win tonight, Klaasen added. He also highlighted the impact of the young bowlers, who delivered in crunch moments to restrict CSK to 184/8.Its nice to see the young boys keep stepping up when we really need them, and may it continue, he said. Yeah, another tricky situation, but I enjoy those moments. But as I said earlier, I would exchange a couple of runs for another win on the board. So, very happy with where I am personally, but yeah, its a hell of a win tonight, Klaasen added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this win, SRH have moved to the fourth position in the points table with three wins in six matches. They will next face the Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 21. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Important To Have An Environment Where Players Believe, Says Nayar On Keeping KKRs Dressing Room Positive

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders head coach Abhishek Nayar stressed the importance of maintaining belief and a positive dressing-room environment as the side continues to navigate a challenging phase in IPL 2026. Speaking on the sidelines during KKRs clash against Rajasthan Royals at Eden Gardens on Sunday, Nayar reflected on how the team management is helping players cope with setbacks, including injuries and inconsistent results. When you get hit early with a couple of injuries and you don't get the start you want, you understand that this tournament can take a toll on you. So, being there, you have a lot of experience in (Shane) Watson, DJ (Bravo), Dre Russ (Andre Russell) and (Tim) Southee, so we understand that this sport can sometimes be hard on you and for us, it's really important to keep an environment where you still believe, an environment where you're creating a platform for people to still go out there and want to play for the franchise because sometimes this pressure can get the best out of you and we want to make sure we give them, from our standpoint, the best opportunity to do so, he said. Nayar also elaborated on the tactical use of veteran spinner Sunil Narine, particularly in the powerplay, where KKR have looked to address their struggles. Powerplay has sort of been a concern for us when we've leaked from. So, we've tried to make sure the kind of form he is to get an over there. It's not so much a defensive ploy but we're looking to pick a wicket through him and every time Sunil comes in, you're trying to make sure that he's impacting the game at times and you want wickets. Yes, oppositions are sort of playing him very differently this season but, you know, we're always looking at Sunil as a wicket-taking option more than a defensive option from our end, he stated. With a growing emphasis on powerplay performance across teams, Nayar acknowledged its importance but maintained that success depends on executing well in all phases of the game. Powerplay has sort of been a concern for us when we've leaked from. So, we've tried to make sure the kind of form he is to get an over there. It's not so much a defensive ploy but we're looking to pick a wicket through him and every time Sunil comes in, you're trying to make sure that he's impacting the game at times and you want wickets. Yes, oppositions are sort of playing him very differently this season but, you know, we're always looking at Sunil as a wicket-taking option more than a defensive option from our end, he stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As KKR look to turn their campaign around with a win against RR, Nayars focus remains firmly on fostering confidence and ensuring the players are equipped to respond under pressure. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: KKR Spinners Trigger RRs Collapse, Restrict Them To 155/9

Kolkata Knight Riders: A dramatic collapse in the latter half of the innings saw Rajasthan Royals squander a blazing start to finish at a below-par 155/9 against Kolkata Knight Riders in their IPL 2026 clash at Eden Gardens on Sunday. Opting to bat first, Rajasthan Royals looked firmly in control early on, courtesy of an explosive opening partnership between Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. The duo stitched together a commanding 81-run stand, laying a solid foundation after navigating a relatively quiet start. While Jaiswal showcased his flair with innovative strokeplay, including a fine scoop and crisp drives, Sooryavanshi initially took time before accelerating, punishing anything loose. Rajasthan raced to 63 without loss in the powerplay, with the pair shifting gears effectively, particularly in the sixth over, where they plundered 22 runs. However, the game turned sharply once spin was introduced. Varun Chakaravarthy broke the stand by dismissing Sooryavanshi for a well-made 46, a wicket that triggered a significant slowdown. The mystery spinner, who also reached the milestone of 200 T20 wickets during his spell, continued to apply pressure alongside Sunil Narine. The spin duo choked the scoring rate and picked up key wickets in the middle overs. Jaiswal, who looked set for a bigger score, fell for 39 attempting to force the pace, while Dhruv Jurel was stumped soon after. Rajasthan slipped from 81/0 to 124/5, losing momentum drastically as boundaries dried up. Despite a brief attempt to rebuild through Shimron Hetmyer and Ravindra Jadeja, the innings never quite recovered. Hetmyer struggled for fluency, while Jadejas late boundary offered only temporary respite. The final overs turned chaotic as Rajasthan completely lost their way. Kartik Tyagi delivered a decisive blow with a three-wicket over, removing Jadeja, Hetmyer and Ravi Bishnoi in quick succession. His incisive spell derailed any hopes of a strong finish. In the closing stages, wickets continued to tumble, including a run-out off the final ball that summed up Rajasthans disarray. From a position of strength at 139/4 after 14 overs, they managed to add just 16 runs while losing five wickets in a dramatic collapse. The final overs turned chaotic as Rajasthan completely lost their way. Kartik Tyagi delivered a decisive blow with a three-wicket over, removing Jadeja, Hetmyer and Ravi Bishnoi in quick succession. His incisive spell derailed any hopes of a strong finish. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: Rajasthan Royals 155/9 in 20 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 46, Yashasvi Jaiswal 39; Varun Chakaravarthy 3-14, Kartik Tyagi 3-22) against Kolkata Knight Riders. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'Rahul's Technique Helped Him Counter Hazlewood,' Says Finch After DC Beat RCB

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Former Australian cricketer Aaron Finch feels that Delhi Capitals (DC) wicketkeeper batter KL Rahul's technique helped him conquer Josh Hazlewood's challenge in the 26th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday. Chasing 176, Delhi Capitals were under pressure early after slipping to 18/3 in the powerplay. Rahul then took charge of the innings, counter-attacking the RCB bowlers and shifting momentum with his positive approach. Finch pointed out that Rahuls strong technique allowed him to handle Hazlewoods disciplined line and length effectively. He came after him early, first ball, he pumped him over cover for six. He had a decent match-up against Hazlewood. Hes probably the one player whose game really suits a bowler like Hazlewood, where hes in and around that off stump, Finch said on ESPNcricinfos TimeOut show. Another guy with good Test batting technique. So yeah, that was a crucial innings. He just found the boundary every time he needed one, he added. Rahuls knock of 57 off 30 balls included several timely boundaries, including a standout over against Hazlewood where he scored 14 runs, helping DC recover from a difficult position. His ability to rotate strike and pick gaps ensured the required rate never got out of hand. He also stitched a crucial 76-run partnership with Tristan Stubbs, which brought DC back into the contest after the early setbacks. While Rahul eventually fell in the middle overs, his innings laid the foundation for the chase. Rahuls knock of 57 off 30 balls included several timely boundaries, including a standout over against Hazlewood where he scored 14 runs, helping DC recover from a difficult position. His ability to rotate strike and pick gaps ensured the required rate never got out of hand. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this win, DC are now in fourth place in the points table with six points from five games. After breaking the two-game losing streak, DC will look to continue the momentum when they take on Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on April 21. Article Source: IANS

South Africa bowl first in Durban; Gaud, Anushka in for India

Shafali Verma will also be playing her 100th T20I for India, who are looking to equalise in the five-match T20I series

India Hand A Debut To Anushka, Kranti Included As Unchanged SA Elect To Bowl First

Asia Cup Rising Stars: India handed a debut to batting all-rounder Anushka Sharma while bringing in Kranti Gaud into the playing eleven as an unchanged South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first in the second T20I at Kingsmead on Sunday. South Africa are leading the five-game series 1-0 after beating India by six wickets in the series opener at the same venue on Friday. The wicket should be a little slower overall. Nice to know what to chase later on. Still four more games in the series, plenty of chances to do that later on (testing the batters by batting first), said South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt. India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur said Anushka and Kranti come into the playing eleven in place of Renuka Singh Thakur and Kashvee Gautam, who have been rested for Sundays clash. Anushka had a memorable maiden Womens Premier League (WPL) stint this year, making 177 runs in seven games at an average of 25.28 and strike-rate of 129.19 for Gujarat Giants. She went on to make 116 runs in five innings at an average of 23.2 and strike-rate of 104.50 as India A won the Womens Asia Cup Rising Stars title in Bangkok. We were thinking of bowling first. It's a good surface. Batting first is also not a bad option. Had good discussions (over where we went wrong in first game). Batting wise we were okay, bowling plans we didn't execute. Its all about playing good cricket, she said. Sundays game also marks the 100th T20I appearance for opener Shafali Verma, who holds the record for being the youngest debutant for India womens team in the shortest format. Shafali is now the third youngest player from any nation across men's and women's cricket to reach 100 T20I caps. Playing XIs: Sundays game also marks the 100th T20I appearance for opener Shafali Verma, who holds the record for being the youngest debutant for India womens team in the shortest format. Shafali is now the third youngest player from any nation across men's and women's cricket to reach 100 T20I caps. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (captain), Sune Luus, Tazmin Brits, Annerie Dercksen, Anneke Bosch, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Ayabonga Khaka, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch GT Vs MI, Know All Details

Indian Premier League: Five time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) will clash with 2022 winners Gujarat Titans (GT) in match number 30 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at Narendra Modi Stadium on Monday. GT have bounced back strongly from opening two defeats to string together three consecutive victories. Their bowling unit, which was a strength last year, has rediscovered its rhythm and is now delivering across all phases of the innings. Prasidh Krishna is once again among the leading wicket-takers, while Rashid Khan has been outstanding in the middle overs. While Siraj and Rabada are also looking in good touch. Captain Shubman Gill has been remarkably consistent, notching up half-centuries in each of their three wins. Jos Buttler, too, has looked in destructive touch, producing impactful knocks against Delhi Capitals and Lucknow Super Giants. In contrast, the Mumbai Indians find themselves struggling for momentum. After ending their long-standing streak of losing opening matches, they have slipped into poor form with four successive defeats, leaving them in the lower half of the standings. Jasprit Bumrah, though economical, is yet to claim a wicket in five matches, and the bowling unit as a whole has failed to take wickets at regular intervals and also stop the flow of runs. India's T20 World Cup champions Suryakumar Yadav and Tilak Varma have both endured lean patches, managing just one half-century between them. Quinton de Kock, however, has been a bright spot on his return, smashing an unbeaten 112 against Punjab Kings after stepping in for Rohit Sharma, who was sidelined with a hamstring injury. When: Monday, April 20, 7:30 PM IST Where: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Where to watch: The GT vs MI match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The GT vs MI match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mumbai Indians: Hardik Pandya (c), Quinton de Kock (wk), Danish Malewar, Robin Minz (wk), Ryan Rickelton (wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Atharva Ankolekar, Raj Bawa, Corbin Bosch, Will Jacks, Mayank Rawat, Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Shardul Thakur, Ashwani Kumar, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Deepak Chahar, AM Ghazanfar, Mayank Markande, Mohd Izhar, Raghu Sharma. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: We Have To Focus On The Powerplay, Says Chakaravarthy On KKRs Struggles Ahead Of RR Clash

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders spinner Varun Chakaravarthy admitted that inconsistencies in the powerplay have hurt his sides campaign so far, even as he expressed confidence in regaining rhythm ahead of their IPL 2026 clash against Rajasthan Royals here at the Eden Gardens on Sunday. After winning the toss, RR opted to bat first in the 28th match of the tournament, putting the spotlight on KKRs bowling unit in home conditions. Chakaravarthy, who missed a few games earlier in the season due to injury, spoke candidly about his fitness and form coming into the contest. I feel confident after the last match because the first 4-5 games I was on and off because of certain injuries which happened on the ground. A few fractures in my left hand. It's still going, I'm still managing, but I'm trying to come back to my rhythm, he told the broadcasters ahead of the game. Despite KKRs winless start to the season, the mystery spinner highlighted the positive environment within the camp, crediting the support staff for keeping the squad motivated during a difficult phase. Well, surprisingly, if I have to tell you, the support staff have managed us really well. As have the coaches, everyone; they have kept us in good spirits. That's all we can do. All we have been told is to focus on the controllables, and we can't control everything. As of now, the results are not going away, but we are putting in the hard work and the hard efforts. A lot of team bonding, a lot of sessions. Everyone's loving each other's company. I think this is one of the best KKR setups I've been a part of. It's just that the results are not coming our way, he added. Identifying key areas for improvement, Chakaravarthy pointed to the powerplay phase as a decisive factor where KKR have fallen short. I feel the power play in the bowling and batting is where we are losing out. We are staying behind in the game. That's where we have to focus, the spinner stated. Identifying key areas for improvement, Chakaravarthy pointed to the powerplay phase as a decisive factor where KKR have fallen short. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Whatever it is, Eden Gardens is a belter. You can't expect much. It's always going to be higher than 180+. I feel if you bat second, it might help. And if you bowl first, it might hold on a bit. That's what I feel, he added. Article Source: IANS

RR opt to bat, Hetmyer and Brijesh return

KKR, still searching for their first win this season, were unchanged

IPL 2026: Hetmyer, Brijesh Come In As RR Opt To Bat Against Unchanged KKR

Kolkata Knight Riders: Rajasthan Royals (RR) won the toss and elected to bat first against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the 28th match of the tournament here at Eden Gardens in the first game of the double header on Sunday. KKR aim to stay competitive against a weakened RR in this matchup. While RR gained momentum with four straight wins before being halted in their latest game by SRH, KKR have faced the opposite challenge, still seeking their first victory after six matches. The hosts have only earned one point so far, from a rain-affected home game. RR has proven to be one of the most composed teams this season, maintaining momentum through consistent performances and key wins, keeping them close to the top of the standings. KKR and RR have faced each other 32 times in the IPL so far, with KKR slightly ahead, winning 16 matches while RR has won 14. Winning the toss, RR skipper Riyan Parag said, Were batting first. Looks like a pretty dry wicket; the grass was cut yesterday. It could turn in the first innings and remain the same later on. Let's set the tone at the start: our focus is on doing better, last match was a learning phase, we need to take it into the games. Hetmyer and Brijesh are back, they replace Pretorious and Tushar Deshpande. Meanwhile, KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane said, We wanted to bat first. In this situation, we want our batters to be free from any pressure. The bowlers have started to perform well, and I'm happy to lose the toss. We live in the past, we can't say about the future, just focus on the controllables. The preparation has been fantastic and the preparations have been good. Just go out there and do well. We have the same team. Playing XIs: Rajasthan Royals: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, and Brijesh Sharma Impact Substitutes: Sandeep Sharma, Shubham Dubey, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Ravi Singh, Yash Punja Rajasthan Royals: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Ravi Bishnoi, and Brijesh Sharma Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Finn Allen, Manish Pandey, Tejasvi Singh, Navdeep Saini Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: A Win Over CSK Could Be A Turning Point For SRH, Opines Steyn

Former South Africa: Former South Africa quick Dale Steyn opined that Sunrisers Hyderabad's (SRH) win over five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) could prove to be a urning point in their IPL 2026 campaign and that they will climb up the points table. SRH marched into the top-four with a 10-run victory over CSK at home. This was their second successive win after two losses on the trot and their overall third win in six games. SRH were off to a flyer after being put in to bat. Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head came out with intent, racing to 75/0 in just 5.4 overs. CSK tightened things further when Jamie Overton removed Abhishek soon after, leaving SRH at 93/3 in eight overs. With the visitors clawing their way back, Heinrich Klaasen stepped in to rebuild and played the anchors role to perfection, stitching together useful partnerships with Aniket Verma, Nitish Kumar Reddy and Salil Arora. Yet, he scored 59 off 39 balls at a strike rate of 151.3. It proved crucial in taking SRH to 177/6 in 17.2 overs. This victory of SRH against CSK shows that they are back to their best after a slow start to the season. At the mid-innings break, I was having a chat with Heinrich Klaasen, and he told me he felt Sunrisers were probably 10 or 15 runs short of where they needed to be. He said a huge bowling effort would be required to secure the win. That is what Sunrisers went out and did. You could see they fielded extremely hard. They took tough catches. They were committed to the cause, Steyn said on JioStar. This victory of SRH against CSK shows that they are back to their best after a slow start to the season. At the mid-innings break, I was having a chat with Heinrich Klaasen, and he told me he felt Sunrisers were probably 10 or 15 runs short of where they needed to be. Also Read: Live Cricket Score When they finally won, I was watching Heinrich Klaasen fielding at long-off. He turned to the crowd, pumped his chest, and held the SRH badge to say, Thank you for backing us, were back in this. This could be the turning point for them now, where they just keep climbing up the points table, he added. Article Source: IANS

'Cannot Breach A Contract You Never Received': Muzarabanis Agency Defends Move To IPL, Challenges PSL Ban

Pakistan Super League: Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani's agency has pushed back against the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after the fast bowler was handed a two-year ban from the league, insisting that he had not signed any formal contract before choosing to join Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Muzarabani was initially named as a replacement signing in the PSL on a deal reportedly worth PKR 11 million (around Rs 37.4 lakh). However, he later pulled out and signed with KKR as a replacement for Mustafizur Rahman, a move that led to disciplinary action from the league. In a statement shared on X, Muzarabani's agency, 'World Sports Xchange' clarified that no formal contract was ever signed between Muzarabani and any PSL franchise. While he had been approached by Islamabad United (IU) for the 2026 season, the agreement was only provisional and subject to obtaining a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Zimbabwe Cricketsomething that requires a valid, signed contract in the first place. Blessing was approached about a playing opportunity for the 2026 PSL, with a deal agreed subject to obtaining a No Objection Certificate from Zimbabwe Cricket. An NOC cannot be obtained without a contract from the PSL. Despite a public announcement, no contract was ever provided. You simply cannot breach a contract you have never received, the agency said. According to the agency, when Muzarabani was approached by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on 27 Feb as a replacement signing for IPL 2026, there was no binding agreement tying him to the PSL, and the Zimbabwe pacer accepted the opportunity without violating any professional commitments. The PCB, led by Mohsin Naqvi, had earlier imposed a two-year ban, citing a failure to honor commitments and a breach of the leagues code of conduct. However, the players camp has described the punishment as incredibly excessive and demanded that the PSL authority lift the ban. According to the agency, when Muzarabani was approached by Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on 27 Feb as a replacement signing for IPL 2026, there was no binding agreement tying him to the PSL, and the Zimbabwe pacer accepted the opportunity without violating any professional commitments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Muzarabani has played only two matches for KKR in IPL 2026. He went wicketless in the first match, but camebreach back strongly against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) and took four wickets. Article Source: IANS

Rahul 'found the boundary every time he needed one' against Hazlewood

KL Rahul came out today with very good intent he was not calculating too much, Ambati Rayudu says of the 34-ball 57

'We Made 175 Feel Like 190': Karthik Praises RCB's Fightback Despite Loss To DC

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) batting coach Dinesh Karthik believes his side punched above their weight with the ball and made 175-run total feel like 190 despite ending up on the losing side against Delhi Capitals (DC) in a last-over thriller. RCB posted 175/8 after being put in to bat, with Phil Salt leading the charge with a brisk 63. However, the innings lost momentum in the final phase, as DCs bowlers executed their plans well to concede just 29 runs in the last five overs. RCB responded strongly with the ball. Bhuvneshwar Kumar led the early charge with three wickets in the powerplay, reducing DC to 18/3 and putting them firmly on top. However, the game slipped away in the final over when David Miller produced a stunning finish, smashing two sixes and a boundary to seal the win for DC. 'We made 175 feel like 190, which is all you can do; at no point did we feel that we were run short. We just wanted to fight with what we have. The fighting spirit and attitude shown were very encouraging for us as a team, he said in a video released by the franchise on X. It was a tough pitch to bat, and we played quite well for about 75% of the innings. But yes, in the last five overs we probably didnt get as many runs as we wanted, Karthik admitted. But we bowled so well, we fielded our skin out, we did everything possible, showed the kind of commitment that players have towards the team. 'We made 175 feel like 190, which is all you can do; at no point did we feel that we were run short. We just wanted to fight with what we have. The fighting spirit and attitude shown were very encouraging for us as a team, he said in a video released by the franchise on X. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite the loss, RCB continued to stay in second position with four wins in six matches. They will next face the Gujarat Titans (GT) on April 24. Article Source: IANS

Shreyas Iyer Is Growing Into The Role Of A Leader That Players Are Looking Up To: Ashwin

Punjab Kings Shreyas Iyer: Former off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has lauded Punjab Kings Shreyas Iyer's performance as a batter and a skipper in the past two years, saying the top-order batter is growing into the role of a leader that the players are looking up to. Last season, Iyer etched his name in IPL history books by steering his team to their first final in 11 years. His scintillating knock of 87* off just 41 balls against Mumbai Indians in Qualifier 2 not only showcased his batting prowess but also cemented his leadership credentials. The victory also meant Iyer executed PBKS' first-ever 200 or more successful run chase against the Mumbai Indians in tournament history. This season, with four wins out of five (and a washout) PBKS are currently sitting on top of the standings. Ashwin argued that the form with the bat has been helping Iyer's form as captain. Just the comfort that he is creating around the team, to say, we will have a brotherly conversation. It's a brotherhood here. At the end of the day, I have played in teams where there is always that layer that you can't... You are just not able to go up to the captain or the coach and say, 'I will deliver this for you'. And it's happened. Just the fact that he has kept it simple like how it is being done in your gully or in your tennis-ball game back home, where we do this all the time with our captain or with our friend. That atmosphere is amazing. And I think the way he is batting, he is growing into the role of a leader that the players are looking up to, which is a lethal combination, Ashwin said on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut programme. In the 2026 season, Iyer has scored 50, 69 not out and 66 in his last three innings. He has so far scored 203 runs in five games at a strike rate of 187.96. Ashiwn believes that Iyer is scaring bowlers with his presence on the crease as he is constantly working to improve his game and get better. Just the fact that he has kept it simple like how it is being done in your gully or in your tennis-ball game back home, where we do this all the time with our captain or with our friend. That atmosphere is amazing. And I think the way he is batting, he is growing into the role of a leader that the players are looking up to, which is a lethal combination, Ashwin said on ESPNcricinfo's TimeOut programme. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Not many have the appetite to be able to leave what they're good at and explore areas where they're weak. You would have seen a lot of careers pan out where people have not worked on their weaknesses at all, he added. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'It Looks Pretty Bad; He Will Undergo Scans, Says Hussey On Mhatre's Hamstring Injury

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) batting coach Mike Hussey provided an update on its top-order batter Ayush Mhatre, who suffered a hamstring tear while batting against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), saying he didn't know the exact extent of the injury but it definitely looks bad. Mhatre came in as an impact sub for Gurjapneet Singh in the second over of CSK's chase of 195 runs after the team lost the wicket of opener Sanju Samson. The 18-year-old looked in great touch and smashed the bowlers from the onset as he scored a quickfire 30 off 12 balls. Mhatre pulled his hamstring after the second delivery of the fifth over, trying to get back for the second run. He completed the run but sat down on the ground in pain, and the physio came running out immediately. He then opted to bat on instaead to fo go off the field, before losing his wicket a couple of deliveries later. It's a hamstring tear. Don't know how bad it is. We'll scan him probably the next day. I'm not sure, but yes, it looks pretty bad. Unfortunately, he's going to be a big loss because he has been in nice touch for us, Hussey said in a post-match presser. He is an exciting young talent, but it is going to give someone else an opportunity, so that's exciting as well. We have got some really good players that haven't got an opportunity, so it's going to be exciting for one of those guys. As much as we are really disappointed to lose Ayush, I don't know for how long, but it's exciting for a new player to come in and get a chance, he added. It's a hamstring tear. Don't know how bad it is. We'll scan him probably the next day. I'm not sure, but yes, it looks pretty bad. Unfortunately, he's going to be a big loss because he has been in nice touch for us, Hussey said in a post-match presser. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK suffered a 10-run loss to SRH and moved down to seventh spot in the points table with four points in six matches. They will next face the Mumbai Indians (MI) on Thursday. Article Source: IANS

PBKS vs LSG Match 29, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

PBKS vs LSG Match 29, Cricket Tips : Punjab Kings have been undefeated in the IPL 2026 until now. They will be carrying their unbeaten streak into the next game, where they will face Lucknow Super Giants in Mullanpur. This contest will begin at 7:30 PM IST on Sunday at Maharaja Yadavindra International Cricket Stadium. PBKS have been the best batting side so far, chasing down big totals with ease. LSG have been totally contrasting as they have yet to touch the 190-run mark in the IPL 2026 so far. As a batting group, they have looked tentative, which is why they have lost three games already. PBKS vs LSG: Match Details Date : April 19, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh PBKS vs LSG Live Streaming Details The live action of the PBKS vs LSG clash in India will be televised on the Star Sports Networks on cable TVs. Fans can also switch to the Jio Hotstar app or website for the live stream. PBKS vs LSG Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 06 PBKS : 03 LSG : 03 No - Result : 00 PBKS vs LSG: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Mullanpur is good for batting, as this wicket produces minimal help for the bowlers. The boundaries are not big, which has been a trend in the franchise league, to encourage the batters to go big. It is a high-scoring venue, and the team that bats well will win. PBKS vs LSG Possible XIs PBKS : Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Cooper Connolly, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzi Chahal LSG : Aiden Markram, Mitchell Marsh, Rishabh Pant (c), Ayush Badoni, Nicholas Pooran, Abdul Samad, Mukul Choudhary (wk), Md. Shami, Avesh Khan, Digvesh Singh Rathi, Prince Yadav PBKS vs LSG Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Prabhsimran Singh has been the key batter at the top. The way he played against experienced MI bowlers, he will be looking to dominate here as well. For LSG, Mitchell Marsh is someone who can put the bowlers under pressure. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep bowled a brilliant opening spell against MI, and he is swinging the ball well. For LSG, Mohammed Shami is delivering wicket-taking spells at the top. Today Match Prediction : Punjab Kings are in great form, and we predict them to beat Lucknow Super Giants on Sunday. PBKS vs LSG Match 29, IPL 2026, Today PBKS vs LSG Match, PBKS vs LSG Prediction, PBKS vs LSG Predicted XIs, Injury Update for PBKS vs LSG 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.

SA-W vs IND-W 2nd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI

SA-W vs IND-W 2nd T20I , Cricket Tips :India Women suffered a 6-wicket defeat in the first game of the five-match T20I series against South Africa Women. Smriti Mandhana couldn't score much, but Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, and Harmanpreet Kaur made contributions. However, India failed in the final overs and ended up scoring 157. For South Africa, captain Laura Wolvaardt scored a fifty and took her team to winning position. Now, these two sides will be up against each other for the second game on Sunday. This contest will start at 5:30 PM IST at Kingsmead in Durban. The visitors will be aiming to bounce back with an improved performance. SA-W vs IND-W: Match Details Date : March 19, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 5:30 PM IST Venue : Kingsmead, Durban SA-W vs IND-W: Live Streaming Details The live action of the second T20I will be available on the Star Sports networks. Fans can also watch the game through to the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. SA-W vs IND-W: Head-to-Head in T20I Total Matches : 20 South Africa Women : 07 India Women : 10 Drawn: 03 SA-W vs IND-W: Ground Pitch Report Kingsmead in Durban is a good wicket to bat on, and there are enough runs at this venue. The bounce is good, and fast bowlers will also be in the game. Bowling a hard length will be key at this pitch. As seen in the last game, the toss will be crucial here, and chasing will be ideal. SA-W vs IND-W: Possible XIs South Africa Women : Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Sune Luus, Annerie Dercksen, Anneke Bosch, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Ayabonga Khaka, Tumi Sekhukhune, Nonkululeko Mlaba India Women : Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Kashvee Gautam, Shreyanka Patil, Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Singh Thakur, Shree Charani SA-W vs IND-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shafali Verma is a dangerous batter at the top. She can use the powerplay very well with some good starts. For South Africa, captain Laura Wolvaardt will be the key because of her form. Probable Best Bowler Ayabonga Khaka bowled well in the first game and used the conditions very well. For India, Shreyanka Patil was pretty accurate, and she will be a challenging bowler to handle. Today Match Prediction : South Africa Women have the home conditions on their side and have experience in their bowling unit. Hence, we predict South Africa Women will win this game. SA-W vs IND-W Match 2nd T20I, Today Match SA-W vs IND-W, SA-W vs IND-W Prediction, SA-W vs IND-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update for SA-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.

'Pick Wicket In The Middle To Put Pressure On Opposition,' Kuldeep Revea's On DC's Bowling Plan Vs RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: India's prime spinner Kuldeep Yadav underlined the importance of picking wickets in the middle overs and reading conditions well after his side Delhi Capitals (DC) pulled off a thrilling six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). RCB looked set for a big total after racing through the powerplay, but DCs bowlers clawed their way back by adjusting their lengths and pace on a surface that gradually slowed down. Obviously we started not really well. I thought they batted well in the first five or six overs. We knew the wicket is a bit slower side, Kuldeep said in a video released by IPL on X. Especially, I was talking to Axar because the length was very important, and trying to vary the pace. Understanding whos batting and what sort of strength they have. Someone like Phil, hes a very left-side-dominated player, so we tried to keep him away. Hes just pushing it wide, he explained. The turning point came in the middle overs when DC struck in quick succession. Salts dismissal triggered a slowdown, and skipper Axar Patel further dented RCB by removing Devdutt Padikkal and Tim David, while Kuldeep himself chipped in with the key wicket of Romario Shepherd. We got the wicket of Phil and then Akshar, an important wicket of Tim David at that situation. And then obviously he brought me for Romario. Its very important to pick the wicket, Kuldeep said. From a strong 105/3, RCB slipped to 175/8, managing just 29 runs in the last five overs as DCs bowlers, including T Natarajan, Lungi Ngidi, and Mukesh Kumar, executed their plans to perfection. Kuldeep believes that taking continuous wickets is crucial, especially on a short ground like the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where momentum can shift rapidly. Whenever I played here, the first thing that came to my mind was to pick the wicket in the middle. If I get one wicket, obviously, you are at the top of your rhythm at that time. And if you get another one, youre putting pressure on the team. So that was my plan, especially playing here. Small ground, you can turn things in your side, he added. Kuldeep believes that taking continuous wickets is crucial, especially on a short ground like the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, where momentum can shift rapidly. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The game once again tightened in the death overs, but David Millers experience proved decisive as he smashed two sixes and a four in the final over to take DC home with a ball to spare. Article Source: IANS

Batting a worry for Bangladesh as clinical New Zealand look to sew up series

For Bangladesh, Mustafizur Rahman should slot back in if fit, while Soumya Sarkar could be an option in place of the out-of-form Afif Hossain

'He Is The Best Player In Premier League': Hargreaves Lauds Bruno Fernandez As Man Utd Close To UCL Return

As Manchester United: As Manchester United took a big step towards UEFA Champions League qualification after win over Chelsea, former midfileder Owen Hargreaves has hailed Bruno Fernandes as the architect of the victory and labelled him the est player in the Premier League. The Reds won at Stamford Bridge for the first time since 2020 as Matheus Cunhas goal towards the end of the first half earned a 1-0 victory in West London. Bruno set up the only goal with his 18th assist in the league this term and received the Premier Leagues Player of the Match trophy for another impressive all-round performance. Meanwhile, Fernandes is now just one assist away from equalling the record for a Premier League season, and he still has up to five more games to go in this campaign. Bruno Fernandes, he will be up for player of the year this season, he just creates big moments, Hargreaves told TNT Sports. He was the architect today, best player on the pitch by a mile and obviously with Cunha finishing up, it feels like Champions League football is coming back to Manchester United. He is the best central midfielder in the Premier League. Kevin de Bruyne was the best for a while but it is Bruno right now. Right now I think he is the best player in the Premier League, it depends, he has had the best performance over the whole season. I think [the award] will depend on who wins the title, so I think if it is Arsenal, it will be a Declan Rice or a Gabriel, if it is not then I think it will be Bruno Fernandes. He has been fabulous in terms of creation and assists, and again a bit of experience, he added. The win over Chelsea saw Man United strengthen their grip on third place and are now 10 points clear of the sixth-placed Blues with five games remaining in the battle to secure the five coveted places in Europes premier competition next term. Asked how big the win was, Bruno told TNT Sports after the game: Its an amazing feeling for us. We had to bounce back - its not just about Leeds, there were two games that we didnt win. But we knew we had to make a great performance today because Chelsea are a very good side. The win over Chelsea saw Man United strengthen their grip on third place and are now 10 points clear of the sixth-placed Blues with five games remaining in the battle to secure the five coveted places in Europes premier competition next term. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Man Utd now turn attention to facing seventh-placed Brentford at Old Trafford on April 27, in what will be another tough test for Michael Carricks side. Article Source: IANS

'Smart' Shivang and 'brilliant' Sakib, SRH's unsung bowling heroes

Between them, the inexperienced duo of Shivang Kumar and Sakib Hussain returned 7-0-50-2 as SRH stopped CSK ten runs short

His Mind Appears To Be A Bit Cluttered: Ashwin Reacts To Gaikwad's Batting Woes

Chennai Super Kings: Former India off-spin veteran Ravichandran Ashwin has expressed concern over Chennai Super Kings captain Ruturaj Gaikwads current batting form, suggesting that right-hand batter is playing under immense pressure and struggling with a cluttered mindset. Gaikwad, who has been a prolific run-getter in domestic and franchise cricket, has recently hit a rough patch. In six matches so far, the CSK skipper has scored just 82 runs, with the highest score of 28. In Saturday's 10-run loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad, he was dismissed for 19 off 13 balls. Analysing the 29-year-old batter's recent dismissal, Ashwin noted that the match situation provided the perfect platform for Gaikwad to settle in without the burden of the required run rate, thanks to a blistering start from his batting partner Ayush Mhatre. It was the best chance for him to score runs. He didnt need to take risks or score at a fast pace because of the way Ayush Mhatre started. They were running away with the Powerplay. It was right there for Ruturaj to take some time, score some runs, and come back into form,' Ashwin said on JioStar. After Ayush Mhatres wicket, Ruturaj got a very good ball, its not easy to beat him on the pull. I just feel he is under immense pressure, and his mind appears to be a bit cluttered, he added. It was the best chance for him to score runs. He didnt need to take risks or score at a fast pace because of the way Ayush Mhatre started. They were running away with the Powerplay. It was right there for Ruturaj to take some time, score some runs, and come back into form,' Ashwin said on JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Even though the likes of Matthew Short (34), Sarfaraz Khan (25) and Shivam Dube (21) contributed runs, CSK were restricted to 184/8. Article Source: IANS

'Big, big loss' for CSK as Mhatre suffers hamstring tear

Ayush Mhatre will be sent for scans to determine the severity of the injury, says CSK batting coach Mike Hussey

Kamboj gets Purple Cap, Klaasen snatches back Orange Cap at IPL 2026

There are major changes on the Orange and Purple Cap tables after Saturday's double-header at IPL 2026

KKR vs RR Match 28, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

KKR vs RR Match 28 , Cricket Tips :The campaign for Kolkata Knight Riders is in danger of an early exit, as they have not won a single match in the IPL 2026. KKR have slipped to the bottom of the table with only one point in six matches. They are gearing up to face Rajasthan Royals on Sunday afternoon. This contest will be held at Eden Gardens at 3:30 PM IST. KKR need to win to stay alive in the competition. On the other hand, RR have been pretty consistent so far. They had a poor last game against SRH, but before that they managed four consecutive victories. KKR vs RR: Match Details Date : April 19, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 3:30 PM IST Venue : Eden Gardens, Kolkata KKR vs RR Live Streaming Details The live action of the KKR vs RR contest on Sunday will be available on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the live stream of the match on the Jio Hotstar app or website. KKR vs RR Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 32 KKR : 16 RR : 14 No - Result : 02 KKR vs RR: Ground Pitch Report Eden Gardens is a good batting venue, and it has hosted many high-scoring clashes, including the highest IPL chase. This wicket is flat, and bowlers have very little help. However, the wicket will be dry, and spinners will get good assistance. Hence, the toss will be crucial, and bowling first will be a good option. KKR vs RR Possible XIs KKR : Tim Seifert (wk), Ajinkya Rahane (c), Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Cameron Green, Rovman Powell, Anukul Roy, Rinku Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Sunil Narine, Vaibhav Arora, Kartik Tyagi RR : Yashasvi Jaiswal, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel (wk), Riyan Parag (c), Shimron Hetmyer, Donovan Ferreira, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, Sandeep Sharma, Ravi Bishnoi KKR vs RR Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi will be the one to watch out for. If he plays 12-15 balls, RR will be on top. For KKR, Angkrish Raghuvanshi has been consistent throughout this season and will be the one to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Jofra Archer has made a difference with some good opening spells. He will be tough to face in the powerplay. For KKR, Kartik Tyagi has been good. He is bowling with pace and accuracy. Today Match Prediction : KKR are no way near their best. Hence, we back in-form Rajasthan Royals to win this game. KKR vs RR Match 28, IPL 2026, Today KKR vs RR Match, KKR vs RR Prediction, KKR vs RR Predicted XIs, Injury Update for KKR vs RR 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: 'Young Bowlers Delivered Under Pressure,' Says Ishan Kishan After SRH Win

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Skipper Ishan Kishan lauded his young bowling unit for delivering under pressure as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) registered a hard-fought 10-run win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 27 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. Lovely when you have a bunch of young bowlers. They are coming up with their own plans, and it was lovely to see them do their job, Kishan said in the post-match presentation. Earlier, SRH posted 194/9 in 20 overs, thanks to impressive half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen. The pair provided a strong platform, but regular wickets in the latter half of the innings prevented the hosts from breaching the 200-run mark on what appeared to be a batting-friendly surface. Kishan admitted the team fell short of an ideal total. Very good batting surface, and we were 30-40 short. We shouldve batted better, he said, while also noting that the team expected at least one batter to play a big innings and push the total beyond 220. Defending 195, SRHs bowlers held their nerve in crucial phases. Eshan Malinga led the charge with an impressive three-wicket haul, while Nitish Kumar Reddy chipped in with key breakthroughs to keep CSK under pressure. Despite a steady chase, CSK eventually finished on 184/8, falling just short. Kishan credited the young bowlers preparation and fearless mindset for the result. Actually, looking at them in practice sessions, giving their best day by day. Give them the ball and let them do what they want to, he said, emphasising the importance of backing players to execute their own plans. Defending 195, SRHs bowlers held their nerve in crucial phases. Eshan Malinga led the charge with an impressive three-wicket haul, while Nitish Kumar Reddy chipped in with key breakthroughs to keep CSK under pressure. Despite a steady chase, CSK eventually finished on 184/8, falling just short. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this win, SRH have moved to the fourth position in the points table with three wins in six matches. They will next face the Delhi Capitals (DC) on April 21. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: We Fell Short In Middle Overs, Says Gaikwad After CSKs 10-run Loss To SRH

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad admitted that Chennai Super Kings (CSK) fell short in the middle overs with the bat despite a strong effort with the ball, after their 10-run loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in match 27 of the Indian Premier League 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. Reflecting on the game, Gaikwad said CSK had done well to restrict SRH after a flying start. Looking at how their power play went, I was looking at a score around 220-230. To pull it back by 30 runs, I would have taken it any day under 200, he said after the match. SRH were powered by half-centuries from Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen to post 194/9, but CSKs bowlers, led by Jamie Overton and Anshul Kamboj, pulled things back impressively at the death. Chasing 195, CSK got off to a brisk start but lost wickets at key moments. Despite contributions from the middle order, they slipped behind the required rate and eventually finished on 184/8, falling short by 10 runs. Eshan Malinga was the standout for SRH with three wickets. Gaikwad pointed to a crucial phase after the halfway mark as the turning point. It was just about 80 runs needed in 10 overs. From there, it was just about building a couple of partnerships. We scored just 4 runs in the next 2 overs after the 10-over mark. Chasing 12-13 at the death is going to be difficult, he explained. Despite the loss, the CSK skipper praised his bowling unit for consistent performances. Its been three successive games that the bowling unit has been doing really well. Even in the power play today, I thought Abhishek played brilliantly. I think everyone did a good job with the ball, he said. Gaikwad pointed to a crucial phase after the halfway mark as the turning point. It was just about 80 runs needed in 10 overs. From there, it was just about building a couple of partnerships. We scored just 4 runs in the next 2 overs after the 10-over mark. Chasing 12-13 at the death is going to be difficult, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this loss, CSK has moved down to seventh spot in the points table with four points in six matches. They will next face the Mumbai Indians (MI) on April 23. Article Source: IANS

Malinga, Reddy sink CSK chase to defend under-par 194 in Hyderabad

An unheralded bowling attack took SRH into the top four of the points table with a 10-run win

Jennings 70 underpins Lancashire before Gloucestershire wobble again

Matt Taylor six-for keeps home side in touch but they lose top three cheaply and remain in deficit

IPL 2026: Eshan Malinga Picks Three Wickets As SRH Beat CSK By 10 Runs

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Sri Lankan pacer Eshan Malinga picked three wickets as Sunrisers Hyderabad restricted five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) to just 184/8 in 20 overs and won their third match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 by 10 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Saturday. Earlier, opener Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen scored half-centuries as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) posted 194/9 in 20 overs despite a great comeback by CSK bowlers. Chasing a challenging target, CSK made a brisk start, scoring 15 runs in the opening over. However, they suffered an early setback when Sanju Samson was dismissed for seven in the second over by Nitish Kumar Reddy. Despite the early blow, Ayush Mhatre counterattacked aggressively, smashing 24 runs in the third over. He looked in fine touch but was forced off after pulling a hamstring and was eventually dismissed for a quick 30 off 13 balls. SRH tightened their grip when Malinga removed CSK captain Ruturaj Gaikwad for 19. Sarfaraz Khan and Matthew Short then steadied the innings with a 46-run partnership, guiding CSK to 111/3 at the halfway mark. The stand was broken in the 11th over when Malinga dismissed Sarfaraz for 25. SRH struck again soon after as Shivam Kumar removed Dewald Brevis for a duck. With the pressure building, Short struggled to accelerate and was dismissed for 34 off 30 balls, giving Malinga his third wicket. Shivam Dube tried to revive the chase but was bowled by Sakib Hussain for 21. Late efforts from Jamie Overton and Anshul Kamboj were not enough, as CSK failed to chase down 18 runs in the final over, finishing on 184/8. Malinga was the standout performer with figures of 3/29, while Nitish Kumar Reddy chipped in with two wickets to secure a 10-run win for SRH. Asked to bat first, SRH began cautiously before accelerating in the power-play. Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head looked in control, finding boundaries regularly. Abhisheks explosive hitting in the fifth over, where he smashed Matthew Short for 25 runs, powered SRH to 63/0 in five overs. CSK responded immediately as Mukesh Choudhary dismissed Head for 23, and Ishan Kishan fell for a duck on the next ball, leaving SRH at 75/2 after the powerplay. Abhisheks innings ended in the eighth over when Jamie Overton induced an edge, caught by Sanju Samson. He made a rapid 59 off 22 balls, including six fours and four sixes. SRH lost another wicket in the 11th over, but Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy added a quick 35-run partnership to stabilise the innings. Reddy scored 12 before departing, while Klaasen continued to attack, bringing up his fifty in 32 balls. Klaasen was eventually bowled by Anshul Kamboj for 59 off 39 balls. Late cameos, including 12 off 8 from Shivam Kumar, helped SRH reach 194, though they fell short of 200. For CSK, Overton and Kamboj picked up three wickets each, while Mukesh Choudhary claimed one. Klaasen was eventually bowled by Anshul Kamboj for 59 off 39 balls. Late cameos, including 12 off 8 from Shivam Kumar, helped SRH reach 194, though they fell short of 200. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sunrisers Hyderabad 194/9 in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 59, Heinrich Klaasen 59; Anshul Kamboj 3-22, Jamie Overton 3-37, Mukesh Choudhary 2-21 ) defeated Chennai Super Kings 184/8 in 20 overs (Matthew Short 34, Ayush Mhatre 30, Sarfaraz Khan 25; Eshan Malinga 3-29, Nitish Reddy 2-31) by 10 runs. Article Source: IANS

Fakhar, Farooq end Qalandars' losing streak and eliminate Rawalpindiz

Fakhar's return to form with 84 and Farooq's 63 took Qalandars to 210, as Rawalpindiz remained winless

McSweeney, Sales guide Northants reply to Middlesex 341

Unbroken century stand gives hosts firm footing after Ben Sanderson's five-for

Codi Yusuf and Nick Gubbins lead Hampshire fightback

Somerset take 50-run lead on first innings but struggle to make inroads second time around

IPL 2026: 'Millers Experience Made The Difference In The End,' Says Venugopal Rao After DC's Win Over RCB

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Delhi Capitals' Director of Cricket, Venugopal Rao, hailed David Millers experience and composure under pressure as the defining factor behind his side's six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. In a tournament like this, it is about momentum. I think today, David Miller finished it for us. Experience always counts. He did his job really well, Venugopal Rao said in the post-match press conference. Chasing 176 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, Delhi Capitals were under immediate pressure after slipping to 18/3 in the powerplay. However, KL Rahul (57) and Tristan Stubbs (60 not out) steadied the innings with a vital 76-run partnership, bringing the visitors back into contention. Despite the recovery, the game remained evenly-poised heading into the final over, with 15 runs required. It was then that Millers vast experience in high-pressure chases came to the fore, as he took charge against Romario Shepherd. After a couple of early deliveries, the left-hander launched two towering sixes and followed it up with a boundary to seal the win with a ball to spare, completing a remarkable turnaround for DC. Rao also acknowledged the importance of that middle-phase partnership, which laid the foundation for the successful chase. It came down to one good partnership. The total that RCB posted was competitive, but I felt the partnership between KL Rahul and Tristan Stubbs was crucial, he said, underlining how the duo absorbed pressure and rebuilt the innings. Earlier in the match, DCs bowlers played a key role in keeping RCB to a manageable total of 175/8. Rao pointed out that understanding the nature of the pitch and executing plans accordingly helped the team stay ahead in the contest. In a day game, the wicket behaves differently. It gets slower because of the heat. We were prepared for that. RCB have been scoring 220230 regularly, but if you pick wickets at intervals, any team can come under pressure. That is what happened today, he explained. He also praised skipper Axar Patel for his all-round contribution, especially after working hard to regain form. In a day game, the wicket behaves differently. It gets slower because of the heat. We were prepared for that. RCB have been scoring 220230 regularly, but if you pick wickets at intervals, any team can come under pressure. That is what happened today, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this win, DC are now in fourth place in the points table with six points from five games. After breaking the two-game losing streak, DC will look to continue the momentum when they take on Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on April 21. Article Source: IANS

All-round Jess Jonassen guides Yorkshire to maiden Tier 1 victory

Lauren Winfield-Hill leads way with 90 before Blaze suffer disastrous collapse from 126 for 1

2nd T20I: India Eye Strong Comeback Against South Africa After Six-wicket Defeat In Opener (Preview)

Kingsmead Cricket Ground: India women's cricket team will be eager to bounce back when they take on South Africa in the second T20I of the five-match series to be played at the Kingsmead Cricket Ground on Sunday, after suffering a six-wicket defeat in the series opener. Despite a promising start in the first match, India failed to capitalise on key moments. Contributions from Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur helped them reach a competitive total of 157 in 20 overs, but a late-innings slowdown proved costly. Managing just 38 runs in the final phase exposed concerns around finishing ability, an area the visitors will look to address urgently. Indias bowling unit also had an off day, struggling with consistency and leaking extras at crucial stages. While Shreyanka Patil and Shree Charani picked up wickets, the attack lacked control, allowing South Africa to chase the total comfortably in just 19.1 overs while losing only four wickets. On the other hand, South Africa will take confidence from a well-rounded performance. Laura Wolvaardt led the charge with a composed half-century, while Annerie Dercksen and Chloe Tryon ensured there were no late hiccups in the chase. Their bowling unit, spearheaded by Ayabonga Khaka, was equally impressive. Khakas ability to vary pace and execute under pressure played a crucial role in restricting India to a below-par total, and she will once again be key on a surface that could assist seamers. Heading into the second match, India will need a more disciplined effort with the ball and sharper execution at the death with the bat as they aim to level the series. South Africa, meanwhile, will aim to continue their momentum and tighten their grip on the five-match series with another strong showing at home. When: Saturday, April 19, 5:30 PM IST Where: Kingsmead, Durban Where to watch: The South Africa vs India match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The South Africa vs India match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India: Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Smriti Mandhana (vc), Shafali Verma, Jemimah Rodrigues, Deepti Sharma, Richa Ghosh (wk), Arundhati Reddy, Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Sree Charani, Shreyanka Patil, Kashvee Gautam, Bharti Fulmali, Uma Chetry (wk), Anushka Sharma Article Source: IANS

LSG in need of batting lift against red-hot Punjab Kings

LSG captain Pant is fully fit after recovering from a blow on his left elbow in the previous match

Wyatt-Hodge 96 trumps Armitage 106 as Surrey make it three from three

Lauren Filer claims five-wicket haul but Durham unable to knock hosts off their stride

IPL 2026: Abhishek, Klaasen Fifties Power SRH To 194 Despite CSK Fightback

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Abhishek Sharma and Heinrich Klaasen scored half-centuries as Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) posted 194/9 in 20 overs against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 27 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Saturday. After being put in to bat, SRH got off to a steady start before accelerating quickly. Abhishek Sharma and Travis Head looked in good touch, taking their time initially before attacking in the power-play with a flurry of boundaries. Abhishek turned up the heat in the fifth over, smashing Matthew Short for 25 runs with a mix of crisp fours and towering sixes, helping SRH race to 63/0 in five overs. However, CSK hit back strongly in the sixth over. Mukesh Choudhary dismissed Head for 23, and on the very next ball, SRH captain Ishan Kishan fell for a duck, leaving the hosts at 75/2 at the end of the power-play. Abhisheks explosive innings ended soon after in the eighth over when Jamie Overton forced an edge, which was safely taken by Sanju Samson behind the stumps. Abhishek scored a brilliant 59 off just 22 balls, hitting six fours and four sixes. SRH lost another wicket in the 11th over when Aniket Verma was dismissed by Overton. With wickets falling, Klaasen and Nitish Kumar Reddy steadied the innings with a quick 35-run stand off 22 balls. Reddy made 12 before being caught off Overton in the 14th over. Klaasen then took charge, playing attacking shots and keeping the scoreboard moving. He reached his third fifty of the season in 32 balls. His innings ended in the 18th over when Anshul Kamboj bowled him for 59 off 39 balls, an innings that included six fours and two sixes. Late contributions from Shivam Kumar (12 off 8) helped SRH push towards 200, but regular wickets in the final overs prevented them from crossing the mark. Liam Livingstone, who came in as an impact player, failed to make an impact. For CSK, Overton and Kamboj were the standout bowlers with three wickets each, while Mukesh Choudhary picked up one. Late contributions from Shivam Kumar (12 off 8) helped SRH push towards 200, but regular wickets in the final overs prevented them from crossing the mark. Liam Livingstone, who came in as an impact player, failed to make an impact. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sunrisers Hyderabad 194/9 in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 59, Heinrich Klaasen 59; Anshul Kamboj 3-22, Jamie Overton 3-37, Mukesh Choudhary 2-21) against CSK Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Was Good To Get Over The Line, Says DCs Miller After Applying Finishing Touches

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Delhi Capitals veteran finisher David Miller expressed immense satisfaction at successfully navigating a tense run-chase and taking the team to a six-wicket win over Royal Challengers Bengaluru, admitting that getting over the line was a necessary relief following the previous failure to close out a game against Gujarat Titans. Miller hit two sixes and a four in the final over off Romario Shepherd, and along with Player of the Match Tristan Stubbs, who was not out on 60, took DC over the line. The result also ensured that DC broke their two-match losing streak. It feels really good. Obviously, to get one from the other night, obviously, I was just a bit disappointed a couple of games ago, but to get myself back in that position was good to get over the line. It's always going to be there at the back of the mind (on unable to finish the job against GT) until you actually win another game. That's our take, and it has been a couple of games - we obviously had a week off, so I've worked on a few things, just trying to stay in the moment as well and do what I can, said Miller at the conclusion of the game. Despite a slow start to his innings and coming out to bat after Axar Patel retired hurt due to cramps, Miller remained unperturbed by the mounting pressure. My first six balls, I thought, were really unbelievable. While there were six yorkers to me and I couldn't get going, I was really chuffed that it came off in the last six balls. We did try to finish it in the second-to-last over, but when you need those 43-odd runs in the last four overs, we always knew there was one or two sixes. When you hit six and then a back-to-back four or six, then the bowler's always under pressure from there. So it's just trying to limit the dot balls. And then when the boundary ball comes, you kind of capitalise. So it was trying to stay calm, obviously keep communicating with the partner and, yeah, I'll take it as deep as I can, as we can, he explained. He also credited young Stubbs for a timely mental reset during a mid-innings break in play. When I walked to the wicket, Stubbo said to me, ' You just keep your intensity really high. So for me, that obviously helped a lot, and just a reminder, which clicked me into a good frame of mind. It came after a little while. It's always good finishing off games with Stubbs. We batted a lot together, and he just said, 'Thanks so much, you saved me there.' But I thought he batted unbelievably well. Obviously anchored the innings all the way through, he added. Stubbs, who anchored the innings following the early collapse before exploding late, noted that the duo was prepared to take the game into the final over if necessary. No, it wasn't like spinning or anything, but it was just a little bit slow. Pretty much what I play on back home. But thankfully, we got through. I kept thinking three sixes, and we're straight back in it. They bowled their guns out quite early. So then I always thought, worst case, the last over, we can get whatever we need. But I didn't want to take it to the last over. But thankfully, we got over the line, he remarked. Stubbs, who anchored the innings following the early collapse before exploding late, noted that the duo was prepared to take the game into the final over if necessary. No, it wasn't like spinning or anything, but it was just a little bit slow. Pretty much what I play on back home. But thankfully, we got through. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS

Riding On A Dream Run In 2026, Satghare Hopes T20 Mumbai Women's League Unearths 'fearless Youngsters'

T20 Mumbai Women: From going unsold at the Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 auction to winning the trophy this year with Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and then making her debut at the iconic WACA Stadium in Perth - India pacer Sayali Satghare has had a few months that even the most vivid dreams could not have scripted. Now, Sayali, whos coming off playing for West Zone in the Senior Womens Inter Zonal Multi-Day Trophy, is channelling that momentum into something she believes could transform women's cricket in Mumbai -- the inaugural T20 Mumbai Women's League set to take place later this year. For now, Sayali cheerfully reflects on how wonderful 2026 has been for her. It began with her replacing Ellyse Perry in RCBs squad, after all of her previous India appearances came in 2025. Partnering with the in-form Lauren Bell, Sayali was useful with her swing bowling and picked up nine wickets in six games as RCB got their second title. Honestly, the last few months have been like a dream. Like going unsold in the auction and then getting a call as a replacement player for RCB was huge. I was just excited to be part of the squad. Then I never expected at the end that I would be winning the trophy. Initially, I was just happy to be there and be part of WPL. So, to win that, and I have always, always loved RCB as a team and been a fan of them. So, to win the trophy with RCB was really, really special. Then, to get that Test team call-up was like a cherry on the top. It's because eventually the dream has been to represent India. Then making the Test debut at Perth, it's a dream for any fast bowler, and that was a dream come true, literally, Sayali told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Saturday. Sayali, who showed tremendous composure under pressure on debut, admitted nerves were part of the equation before settling into her rhythm in Perth. After India were bowled out for 198 on day one, Sayali posed tough questions to Georgia Voll, before getting some prodigious swing to crash into Georgia Volls leg stump. After beating Ellyse twice in quick succession, Sayali nearly trapped Alyssa Healy lbw in her second spell, only for the review to show the balls impact was outside off-stump. She did not have to wait long, however, as Alyssa, playing her last international game, gave a catch to backward point in the next over. I think we had our bowling innings start at night. So, I knew the ball would swing. It was just about putting it in the right areas and letting the pitch and conditions help in how much it can happen. Honestly, yes, I was very nervous at the start. But then, as the game went on, I just got relaxed and then just had to focus on what I needed to do, where I needed to bowl, and yes, I think that's what helped me get wickets also, she added. When she didnt get many chances to play for India, Sayali credited the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) camps in Bengaluru and India A exposure for sharpening her skills. The camps and India A exposure that we had as we went to Australia two years back for the tour - the exposure and experience always helps you in knowing where you stand and what you need to improve for going forward to play at the highest level. Also, the CoE is a great, great place to be. I mean, there are a lot of facilities, and they have different kinds of wickets. So, you can prepare for all the conditions that you will face, and definitely, those things have really helped me now. Then you just, when you know what you need to work on, you just keep your head down and keep working towards it, she said. Turning her focus to the inaugural season of the three-team T20 Mumbai Women's League, Sayali sounded emphatic about its importance for the next generation of Mumbai cricketers. Yes, it is a great initiative by MCA, and it's a big opportunity for all players to showcase their skill and talent at a bigger stage, which will eventually help them grow as individuals and open more doors and give them more opportunities to eventually represent India and play in the WPL as well. Drawing parallels with the men's competition that has given opportunities to talented players since being restarted last year, Sayali further stated, This is the inaugural season for Mumbai - I mean for women's. But as we have seen in the men's game, they have got a lot of exciting talent through this league. So I'm sure the same thing will happen with women's cricket in the city as well. We will definitely find a lot of upcoming youngsters who are fearless and who can help Mumbai cricket win more trophies in the future. In that way, it's a great initiative to unearth new talents across the city. I feel there is a lot of talent in the city, but sometimes they don't get that exposure. But this league is a huge platform for them also to gain that. With the men's team having claimed the Ranji Trophy a record 42 times, Sayali sees the women's game as being at the dawn of a similarly storied era. For the uninitiated, Mumbai won the Senior Womens T20 Trophy in 2023/24 and 2024/25 seasons, and emerged victorious in the 2026 Women's U-15 One Day Trophy. Yes, definitely, this leagues commencement will just be the start of creating an even bigger legacy as the men have won the Ranji Trophy 43 times. So, we are looking forward to doing the same in women's cricket, and this is just the start. The exposure and experience here and the overall opportunities will help players grow themselves, and that will eventually help Mumbai win more trophies in womens cricket competitions, she said. For aspiring women cricketers watching her remarkable rise, Sayalis message is rooted in the unglamorous virtues of patience and perseverance. I've always believed that there's no substitute for hard work. Even when you are not getting opportunities or when times are tough, you just have to keep doing your work. The exposure and experience here and the overall opportunities will help players grow themselves, and that will eventually help Mumbai win more trophies in womens cricket competitions, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You just keep working hard, keep improving yourself day by day. There is a lot of exposure now. So if you keep doing well, then definitely you'll get more opportunities going forward - like playing in WPL, and even for India. But for that, you need to have strong basics and have the right mindset to keep learning and keep growing, she concluded. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Abhishek Sharma Scripts History With Fastest Fifty For SRH

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Indian batter Abhishek Sharma made history with a stunning 15-ball half-century, the fastest ever for Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), during their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 match against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on Saturday. The attacking left-hander broke the previous franchise record of 16 balls, which he had set against the Mumbai Indians (MI) in 2024. The same record had also been matched by his opening partner, Travis Head, twice that season against Delhi Capitals (DC) and Lucknow Super Giants (LSG). Batting first after losing the toss, Abhishek started carefully but soon picked up pace and attacked the bowlers with confidence. The turning point of his innings came in the fifth over, bowled by Matthew Short, where he completely took control and smashed 25 runs, including three fours and two back-to-back sixes, as he reached his record-breaking fifty in style. Abhisheks brilliant innings finally ended in the eighth over when Jamie Overton bowled a hard-length delivery. Abhishek tried to guide it towards the third man but edged it behind, where Sanju Samson completed a sharp catch. Samson was confident and convinced the captain to review, which confirmed the dismissal. Batting first after losing the toss, Abhishek started carefully but soon picked up pace and attacked the bowlers with confidence. The turning point of his innings came in the fifth over, bowled by Matthew Short, where he completely took control and smashed 25 runs, including three fours and two back-to-back sixes, as he reached his record-breaking fifty in style. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He has been in excellent form in IPL 2026 for Hyderabad, playing an important role as an aggressive opener. Recently, he became only the second SRH player to hit more than 100 sixes for the franchise. His performances this season also include a quick 48 off 21 balls against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and a fiery 74 off 28 balls versus Punjab Kings (PBKS). The number one T20I batter has scored 125 runs in five matches in the ongoing season, which includes two half-centuries. Article Source: IANS

Miller 'chuffed that it came off in the last six balls' against RCB

It's always going to be there at the back of the mind until you actually win another game, Miller said while recalling the chase he couldn't close out against Gujarat Titans

IPL 2026: There Was Faith In Stubbs And Miller, Says KL Rahul After DCs Six-wicket Win

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Delhi Capitals acting skipper KL Rahul hailed the finishing prowess of Tristan Stubbs and David Miller, stating the dugout remained calm despite a tense final-over finish, giving them a six-wicket victory over Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. Chasing 176 on a surface that grew increasingly sluggish, DC reached the target with a ball to spare, exorcising the ghosts of that one-run loss suffered at the hands of the Gujarat Titans. While birthday boy Rahul (57) and Stubbs (60 not out) laid the foundation, it was Miller, who provided the finishing flourish by smashing Romario Shepherd two sixes and a four in the 20th over when 15 runs were required. No, there was faith in Stubbs and Miller. They do this on a daily basis for South Africa and franchise cricket. So, we also knew that the last two overs were going to be a gamble for RCB as well. We knew that probably Romario Shepherd would bowl or maybe Suyash Sharma would bowl, which gives our batters a good chance to hit two sixes in the last two overs. So yeah, ideally we wouldn't have wanted it to go till the 20th over, but we'll take the win, said Rahul, coming in for Axar Patel, who retired hurt due to cramps, in the post-match presentation ceremony. Earlier in the chase, DC faced a crisis after losing three wickets within the Power-play. Rahul explained that his strategy was to remain aggressive rather than retreating into a defensive shell, which could have allowed the required run rate to spiral beyond their reach. The wicket did a little bit early on. I could see Virat and Phil Salt not happy with the way the ball was coming on. Us losing three wickets in the first six overs didn't make it easy for us. So yeah, it was, I think all in all a really good cricket game. The conversation was to continue to play good cricket shots and see how we can find boundaries and how we can still put the pressure on the bowlers. We didn't want to go into our shell, and then the run rate keeps climbing up; it gets harder and harder towards the end. The wicket did a little bit early on. I could see Virat and Phil Salt not happy with the way the ball was coming on. Us losing three wickets in the first six overs didn't make it easy for us. So yeah, it was, I think all in all a really good cricket game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score DC are now in fourth place in the points table with six points from five games. After breaking the two-game losing streak, DC will look to continue the momentum when they take on Sunrisers Hyderabad at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium on April 21. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: We Were 15-20 Runs Short, Will Introspect On Errors, Says RCB Captain Patidar

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar on Saturday lamented his sides tense six-wicket defeat to Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026, admitting that the side finished 15-20 runs short despite a spirited effort to stretch the contest to the final over. RCBs aggressive intent only yielded 175/8 on a slow pitch as their middle order struggled against DCs fantastic death overs bowling masterclass. Despite a blistering 63 off 38 balls from opener Phil Salt, laced with four boundaries and three sixes, RCB's innings stalled significantly in the second half as DC conceded only 29 runs in the last five overs. That was really close, but I feel that we were 15-20 runs short. The way we started, especially VK bhai and Salt, they gave a good start. But from there, after 12-13 overs, we lost wickets in a couple of overs, and that put us on the back foot, Patidar said in the post-match presentation ceremony. The result also meant RCB suffered their first defeat in Bengaluru after five consecutive home wins. Its also RCBs third loss in 11 day games since 2022, with the side now losing nine of 15 matches played in the green jersey. Asked if the batters were perhaps too aggressive on a surface that wasn't a flat deck, Patidar said, I think the pitch was a bit tacky, but I think the way we stretched the game to the last over was a positive sign for us. I was just discussing with the bowler to be clear in what you do. The result also meant RCB suffered their first defeat in Bengaluru after five consecutive home wins. Its also RCBs third loss in 11 day games since 2022, with the side now losing nine of 15 matches played in the green jersey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Defending champions RCB now have a six-day break before taking on IPL 2022 winners Gujarat Titans at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 24. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Bowlers, Stubbs, Miller Power Delhi Capitals To Tense Six-wicket Win Over RCB (ld)

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: David Miller clobbered two massive sixes in a final-over heist as Delhi Capitals broke their two-game losing streak in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with a tense six-wicket victory over defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday. Previously, RCBs aggressive intent only yielded 175/8 as their middle order struggled against DCs fantastic death overs bowling masterclass. Chasing 176 on a surface that grew increasingly sluggish, DC reached the target with a ball to spare, exorcising the ghosts of that one-run loss they suffered to the Gujarat Titans earlier this month. While birthday boy KL Rahul (57) and Tristan Stubbs (60 no out) laid the foundation, it was Miller who provided the finishing flourish by smashing Romario Shepherd for two sixes and a four in the 20th over when 15 runs were required. The result also ends RCBs two-game winning run, with this also being their first loss at home in the season. The chase began disastrously for DC as Bhuvneshwar Kumar produced a powerplay masterclass. He trapped Pathum Nissanka plumb lbw in the first over before returning to remove Karun Nair and Sameer Rizvi with outswingers. Reduced to 18/3, DC looked down and out before local hero Rahul took charge. Rahul, who boasts a staggering average of 69.9 against RCB, carted Josh Hazlewood for 14 runs in the fifth over with a flick of the wrists to clip over mid-wicket for six and ramping over the keeper for four being standout shots. Alongside a composed Stubbs, Rahul rebuilt the innings with a 76-run stand and reached his half-century off 30 balls. But he fell shortly after by holing out to long-off against Krunal Pandya, leaving DC in the face of potential trouble. Stubbs took charge after Rahuls fall by hitting Rasikh Salam Dar and Suyash Sharma for two fours each down the ground. Captain Axar Patel played a vital cameo of 26 to keep the asking rate in check, but was forced to retire hurt due to severe cramps. His departure triggered a sensational squeeze from the RCB bowlers, as Krunal, Bhuvneshwar, and Hazlewood combined to concede just 13 runs across overs 15, 16, and 17, leaving DC needing 37 off the final 18 balls. Stubbs kept DC alive by reaching his fifty off 41 balls, but the equation narrowed to 15 runs needed off the final over, via him carting Bhuvneshwar and Rasikh for boundaries each. Patidar handed the ball to Romario Shepherd for his first over of the match. After a single and a leg-bye, Miller launched a low full-toss into the mid-wicket stand for six. He followed it with a magnificent lofted drive over extra-cover for another maximum, before finishing the game with a flick to the deep mid-wicket fence, fetching him the winning four and taking DC to victory under extreme pressure. Earlier, a disciplined death-overs bowling masterclass by DC ensured RCB were restricted to a competitive but under-par score. Despite a blistering 63 off 38 balls from opener Phil Salt, RCBs innings stalled significantly in the second half, as DC conceded only 29 runs in the last five overs, with Lungi Ngidi, T Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar being sensational. Pushed into batting first, RCB had a brisk start. Phil Salt looked dangerous from the get-go by carving Auqib Nabi Dar for a boundary in the very first over. Virat Kohli (19) joined the act with a signature aerial drive over mid-off against Mukesh Kumar, but his stay was cut short by Ngidi, as he mistimed a scrambled seam delivery to deep cover. Salt continued his onslaught to reach his second fifty of the season with a massive six over long-off against Kuldeep Yadav in the ninth over. But the introduction of spin turned the tide in DCs favour. Axar Patel had Devdutt Padikkal holing out to long-on, while Kuldeep Yadav delivered a body blow in the 11th over when he had Salt flat-batting to long-off, and Mukesh doubled it by having in-form Rajat Patidar edge behind to KL Rahul. Tim David provided a brief spark in RCBs innings by smashing 26 off 17 balls, including a flat-batted six off Ngidi that brought up his 1000th IPL run. But Axar struck again by dismissing David, whose leading edge was caught by the short third man, while Romario Shepherd was trapped lbw by Kuldeep as RCB went from 110/3 to 149/6. The final two overs saw DCs pacers assert total dominance. Natarajan was exceptional in the 19th over, firing in pinpoint yorkers and slower bouncers to concede just two runs. The 20th over summed up RCBs frustrations - Krunal Pandya was run out after a miscommunication on a wide delivery, while Jitesh Sharma holed out to long-off against an accurate slower cutter from Ngidi. DC were primed to complete the chase, but after some nervy moments, they got over the line thanks to Rahul, Stubbs, and Miller. But Axar struck again by dismissing David, whose leading edge was caught by the short third man, while Romario Shepherd was trapped lbw by Kuldeep as RCB went from 110/3 to 149/6. The final two overs saw DCs pacers assert total dominance. Natarajan was exceptional in the 19th over, firing in pinpoint yorkers and slower bouncers to concede just two runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru 175/8 in 20 overs (Phil Salt 63, Tim David 26; Axar Patel 2-18, Kuldeep Yadav 2-32) lost to Delhi Capitals 179/4 in 19.5 overs (Tristan Stubbs 60 not out, KL Rahul 57; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3-26, Krunal Pandya 1-24) by six wickets Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Rahul, Stubbs, Miller Power DC To Tense Six-wicket Win Over RCB

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: David Miller clobbered two massive sixes in a final-over heist as Delhi Capitals broke their two-game losing streak in Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 with a tense six-wicket victory over defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. Previously, RCBs aggressive intent only yielded 175/8 as their middle-order struggled against DCs fantastic death overs bowling masterclass. Chasing 176 on a surface that grew increasingly sluggish, DC reached the target with a ball to spare, exorcising the ghosts of that one-run loss suffered at the hands of the Gujarat Titans. While birthday boy KL Rahul (57) and Tristan Stubbs (60 no out) laid the foundation, it was Miller who provided the finishing flourish by smashing Romario Shepherd two sixes and a four in the 20th over when 15 runs were required. The result also ends RCBs two-game winning run, with this also being their first loss at home in the season. The chase began disastrously for DC as Bhuvneshwar Kumar produced a powerplay masterclass. He trapped Pathum Nissanka plumb lbw in the first over before returning to remove Karun Nair and Sameer Rizvi with outswingers. Reduced to 18/3, DC looked down and out before local hero Rahul took charge. Rahul, who boasts a staggering average of 69.9 against RCB, carted Josh Hazlewood for 14 runs in the fifth over with a flick of the wrists to clip over mid-wicket for six and ramping over the keeper for four being standout shots. Alongside a composed Stubbs, Rahul rebuilt the innings with a 76-run stand and reached his half-century off 30 balls. But he fell shortly after by holing out to long-off against Krunal Pandya, leaving DC in the face of potential trouble. Stubbs took charge after Rahuls fall by hitting Rasikh Salam Dar and Suyash Sharma for two fours each down the ground. Captain Axar Patel played a vital cameo of 26 to keep the asking rate in check, but was forced to retire hurt due to severe cramps. His departure triggered a sensational squeeze from the RCB bowlers, as Krunal, Bhuvneshwar, and Hazlewood combined to concede just 13 runs across overs 15, 16, and 17, leaving DC needing 37 off the final 18 balls. Stubbs kept DC alive by reaching his fifty off 41 balls, but the equation narrowed to 15 runs needed off the final over, via him carting Bhuvneshwar and Rasikh for boundaries each. Patidar handed the ball to Romario Shepherd for his first over of the match. After a single and a leg-bye, Miller launched a low full-toss into the mid-wicket stand for six. He followed it with a magnificent lofted drive over extra-cover for another maximum, before finishing the game with a flick to the deep mid-wicket fence, fetching him the winning four and taking DC to victory under extreme pressure. His departure triggered a sensational squeeze from the RCB bowlers, as Krunal, Bhuvneshwar, and Hazlewood combined to concede just 13 runs across overs 15, 16, and 17, leaving DC needing 37 off the final 18 balls. Stubbs kept DC alive by reaching his fifty off 41 balls, but the equation narrowed to 15 runs needed off the final over, via him carting Bhuvneshwar and Rasikh for boundaries each. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru 175/8 in 20 overs (Phil Salt 63, Tim David 26; Axar Patel 2-18, Kuldeep Yadav 2-32) lost to Delhi Capitals 179/4 in 19.5 overs (Tristan Stubbs 60 not out, KL Rahul 57; Bhuvneshwar Kumar 3-26, Krunal Pandya 1-24) by six wickets Article Source: IANS

Stubbs, Miller win DC a thriller

Stubbs anchored the chase with an unbeaten 60, and with 13 needed off four balls, Miller sealed it with 6, 6, 4

RR seek to fix cracks; KKR battle deeper woes

Pathirana is unlikely to be available for KKR, while RR could consider strengthening their lower middle order

Afghanistan Spinner Rashid Khan Welcomes Baby Boy Azlan

Kolkata Knight Riders: Afghanistans star spinner Rashid Khan celebrated a special moment off the field by sharing the news of his sons birth in an emotional social media post, introducing the newborn as Aslan. The announcement featured a tender photograph and a wooden plaque that read, Hello World, My Name is Azlan Khan, adding a warm, personal touch. Sharing his joy, Rashid wrote on Instagram, Alhamdulillah. Welcome to the world, my little prince, and asked well-wishers to keep his family in their prayers. The post quickly drew congratulatory messages from fellow cricketers and members of the cricketing fraternity, reflecting the admiration he enjoys across the sport. Even amid the celebrations, Rashids impact on the field remained undiminished. Turning out for the Gujarat Titans in their clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday, he played a crucial role in shaping the outcome of the match. Facing a strong challenge from Cameron Green, who struck a fluent 79 off 55 balls, Rashid held his nerve and delivered a key breakthrough, dismissing the Australian all-rounder on the final ball of the innings. That moment proved decisive in preventing KKR from surpassing a competitive total, as they were eventually restricted to 180. The groundwork for that effort had been laid earlier by Kagiso Rabada and Mohammed Siraj, whose incisive spells with the new ball left KKR struggling during the powerplay. Although Green attempted to rebuild the innings through partnerships, Rashids late strike ensured the total remained within reach. Facing a strong challenge from Cameron Green, who struck a fluent 79 off 55 balls, Rashid held his nerve and delivered a key breakthrough, dismissing the Australian all-rounder on the final ball of the innings. That moment proved decisive in preventing KKR from surpassing a competitive total, as they were eventually restricted to 180. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For Rashid, it was a memorable event in many ways, marking a significant personal milestone and a notable on-field contribution. Article Source: IANS

Mukesh Choudhary, Matthew Short in as CSK bowl against SRH

CSK travelled for the first time with Dhoni on board but he will not be playing the game

IPL 2026: Chennai Super Kings Win Toss, Elect To Bowl Against Sunrisers Hyderabad

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in Match 27 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad on Saturday. Dilshan Madushanka has come in place of Harsh Dubey in SRH, while Matthew Short replaced Akeal Hosein in CSK. SRH currently sit fourth on the points table, having secured two wins from five matches. Their season has been a bit inconsistent, but theyve managed important victories against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). With the advantage of playing at home, SRH will be looking to build on those positives and add two valuable points to their tally. On the other hand, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have regained some form after a difficult phase that saw them lose three matches in a row. Theyve responded well with consecutive wins over KKR and Delhi Capitals (DC). Despite this resurgence, CSK are still placed eighth in the standings, and the five-time champions will be aiming to keep the momentum going and move higher up the table with another strong performance. After winning the toss, CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad said, We are going to bowl first. Looks like a really good track, won't change much, so we look to chase. Good to be up from the bottom. From the second game, we started doing the basics right. The key is to be consistent. Last game, I felt Noor bowled really well, and it's good to have him back on track, and even Anshul bowling really well at the death. In your language, it looks like a belter, but we have to assess it. While after losing the toss, SRH skipper Ishan Kishan said, I think we would have batted first. Looks like a good wicket, so we want to put up a good total. You have to bat for the team and not for individual performances. We just have to take it game by game, and it doesn't matter where we are right now because it's a long tournament. I think the ball is going to move a bit in the beginning, and the batters have to watch the ball and play well. Dilshan Madushanka comes in for Harsh Dubey for more swing upfront. Playing XIs: Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson(wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Matthew Short, Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh Impact substitutes: Ayush Mhatre, Kartik Sharma, Prashant Veer, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Matt Henry Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson(wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad(c), Sarfaraz Khan, Shivam Dube, Dewald Brevis, Jamie Overton, Matthew Short, Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Gurjapneet Singh Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Smaran Ravichandran, Harsh Dubey, Dilshan Madhushanka, Liam Livingstone, Harshal Patel Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: MS Dhoni Clicks Photos With Groundmen Ahead Of SRH Clash

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) veteran MS Dhoni once again won hearts off the field with a touching gesture, as he was seen interacting and clicking pictures with the ground staff at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium ahead of their Indian Premier League (IPL) clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on Saturday. In a video shared by CSK on social media, Dhoni can be seen warmly engaging with the groundsmen, exchanging smiles and posing for photographs, highlighting his humility and appreciation for the often-unsung contributors of the game. Meanwhile, Dhoni has not played a single match in the IPL 2026 as he suffered a calf injury during the practice session. However, he has travelled with the team for the first time in the season ahead of the SRH clash. Dhoni was recently seen batting in the nets, striking the ball cleanly and even clearing the ropes with ease. CSK shared a video on Instagram showing him in good touch, which only increased excitement among fans. It remains uncertain whether the 45-year-old will feature in Saturdays match. Meanwhile, Dhoni has not played a single match in the IPL 2026 as he suffered a calf injury during the practice session. However, he has travelled with the team for the first time in the season ahead of the SRH clash. Dhoni was recently seen batting in the nets, striking the ball cleanly and even clearing the ropes with ease. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, CSK have regained some form after a difficult start in the IPL 2026, which saw them lose three matches in a row. Theyve responded well with consecutive wins over KKR and Delhi Capitals (DC). Despite this resurgence, CSK are still placed eighth in the standings, and the five-time champions will be aiming to keep the momentum going and move higher up the table with another strong performance. Article Source: IANS

IPL Standard Is Closest To What One Will Get In International Cricket, Says GT Pacer Luke Wood

Indian Premier League: Gujarat Titans left-arm fast bowler Luke Wood said the standard in the Indian Premier League (IPL) is closest to what one gets while playing international cricket, adding that featuring in the tournament was an aim he was chasing since childhood and ranked it just behind the honour of representing England. It's pretty well known across the world that the IPL is the sort of main event in the calendar. So, for me, being able to play in the IPL and represent a team is a massive privilege. I think as a kid, besides playing for England, for me, the IPL was always on the radar. So, look, a lot of franchise leagues are similar in terms of just if you're playing for a new team or you're with people you necessarily don't know to start with, or on that side as well. But the actual standard of cricket in the IPL is probably at a next level and the closest to international cricket you're going to get, Wood, whos played 3 ODIs and 16 T20Is for England, told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Saturday. Apart from the IPL, Wood has played in The Hundred, Big Bash League, Bangladesh Premier League, Pakistan Super League, and ILT20. While signalling young fast bowler Ashok Sharma as a fantastic talent, Wood also distinguished the IPL and other franchise T20 leagues around the world. I mean, you could argue it's probably just as good at times. It's different, like playing over here is different. It's probably different wickets, different players, and you actually get to see some quite exciting young players over here that sometimes can blow your mind a little bit. So, almost like that young lad from Rajasthan (Ashok Sharma), you sort of see people like him come through, and it's good to see. But no, it's great to be back in the IPL. I enjoyed it last time, and I look forward to the rest of the season, he added. Wood, acquired by GT in last years auction in Abu Dhabi, is a high-pace powerplay bowling option and serves as a potential back-up to Kagiso Rabada. He has been among the more productive T20 pacers since the start of 2025 - picking 56 wickets at an average of 24.2. He said his current experience with GT has been seamless, crediting the franchise's culture for making him feel instantly at home. It's been good. It's been everything that Jos (Buttler) and Vic (Vikram Solanki, Director of Cricket) said before I came, and they were very complimentary of it. I'm going to say it definitely lived up to the expectations. Everything about it is well run, it's well managed, and you can kind of get everything you need as a player, whether that be on and off the field. You're well looked after, and it's nice as a sort of new player on the team that you can sort of feel right at home and sort of integrated pretty well into it. So that's credit to how they do things here, and I'm enjoying my time here so far, he added. On the field, Wood's primary weapon remains swinging the new ball and executing inswinging yorkers - a skill he says has been refined by playing for well over a decade. I think I've just done it for (a long time). That's always kind of been my strength across the board, is sort of swinging a new ball. That stems from when I was a kid, starting fresh cricket, and throughout that, it's always been my main strength. Then obviously when I first started playing cricket, that was sort of the natural, left-armer, over the wicket bowling kind of thing. I think now I've just done it for sort of a long period of time, give or take 10 years. So it almost becomes a bit second nature now, he added. Adapting that skill to Indian conditions, however, required some homework, and Wood has found an ideal guide in GT head coach Ashish Nehra, himself a former left-arm pacer for India. I've had a bit of help so far from Ash (Ashish Nehra, head coach), just about understanding these wickets a bit better over here because I've not played a great deal in India. So it's been quite helpful. But I think just the case of doing it, like my whole T20 career has been based around that. I normally bowl one of the first two overs in every single game. So you kind of get a feel for it after a while, he said. On the tactical question of bowling Test match-like lengths in power-play, Wood feels it can never have a one-size-fits-all answer, citing the approaches of fellow left-arm pacers Arshdeep Singh and Mitchell Starc as reference points. I wouldn't say it's too far away from a good idea. I think it's a mix of both - obviously the wicket and the ground you're playing on, but also of your strength as a bowler. So I think you'll tend to see left-arm seamers, for example, bowl to right-arm batters go a bit forward to start with. Like you see how maybe Arshdeep bowls initially, if he swings the ball back, he'll go fuller. If you sort of watch Starc bowl, they tend to go full to start with, which is quite a natural thing for left-armers anyway, which is quite into your strengths. So I think it's just a mix between the wicket and not going away from your strengths, but also making a sort of calculated decision on what's going to be effective. If you see the other team bowl quite full and it's a really good wicket and they get hit a bit and it's been harder for length, then maybe you might be inclined to pull your length back a bit. But no, sometimes you can't just bowl, like you said, that Test match length or even a bit fuller and say it feels accordingly for the best, he said. The value of being in a high-pressure environment and the wealth of knowledge available within GTs fast bowling group on match days and outside of it has been invaluable for Wood. It's been good to sort of tap into different people's way of thinking. Similar to the conversation I just had with you a second ago, like everyone has different opinions, and obviously, even the head coach, Ash, he's got a great knowledge of himself, and being a left armer, that's been very beneficial to me. Whether you're playing in the games or not, there's still so much value in being around this set-up and with the bowlers that are available to speak to. If you work on something, for example, if you work on a certain thing, you're not short of people to ask. So it's been good to see how they go about their business. Obviously, they've played for a long time. A lot of them are at the top of the game; they play for and represent their country a lot. So there are always things you can take from people and be involved in this. Obviously, having not had game time yet, but the actual value in itself is in being around people like that, and it's been great, he said. Wood was effusive in his praise for Nehra, likening him good-naturedly to an animated football manager while underlining the coach's genuine commitment to his players. I mean, I can see it - the football coach's resemblance. But Ash has been great, he's a proper character. Everything is known about him that he comes from a good and meaningful place to help people. He wants people to succeed, which, as a player, you want your head coach to back you, and he's always the best. So, I mean, he's obviously sometimes a bit animated, but that's just as a person, his style of doing it. But yeah, he's a character - I think that's probably the best way to describe him. I can only praise him so far - he's been great, and the lads seem to love him, and he seems to get the best out of people, and you look at sort of GT's history in the competition, and he's clearly doing something right, he added. Everything is known about him that he comes from a good and meaningful place to help people. He wants people to succeed, which, as a player, you want your head coach to back you, and he's always the best. So, I mean, he's obviously sometimes a bit animated, but that's just as a person, his style of doing it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's good and nice to get the momentum going. Obviously, we had a tricky first couple of games. So obviously, with the success of the team over the last four years that it's been there, that was a disappointing start, I think, for the lads. I think they were hoping for better, but by the look of the last three games, we've sort of built a bit of momentum going forward, and hopefully that can continue, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Pay Them Money, Ask Them Not To Return -- Kris Srikkanths Brutal Verdict On Chahar, Sharduls Performances

T20 World Cup: Former India captain Krishnamachari Srikkanth launched a scathing critique of the Mumbai Indians bowling unit following their recent defeat to Punjab Kings, questioning both selection decisions and the teams overall strategy to play both Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur in the playing XI. At the Wankhede Stadium, MI put up 195 in their 20 overs on a surface that offered plenty for the batters, but the total proved insufficient as PBKS chased it down comfortably in just 16.2 overs, exposing serious flaws in MIs bowling attack. Srikkanth was particularly critical of the inclusion of Deepak Chahar and Shardul Thakur, pointing to their expensive spells. I don't know how MI are playing Deepak Chahar in the XI. I don't know why they retained him. First over, he gave away 21 runs. In the previous match, it was 22 runs. 2.3 overs, 45 runs. Our sir, Shardul Thakur. 3 overs, 42 runs. Combined, they bowled 5.3 overs and 87 runs, Srikkanth said on his YouTube show. The former chairman of selectors went further, questioning how a team could compete with such returns from key bowlers. How can you win a match if two of your important bowlers are giving away 87 runs in 5.3 overs? How can you play both of them in the XI? I asked that question in the pre-match show. Are you saying they don't have any good bowling options? Send them home. Pay them their money and request that they not return this season. Tell them if they are needed, they will be called. Yes, you can do this. It's not wrong. Punjabs chase was set up by an explosive start from Prabhsimran Singh, who smashed 80 off 39 balls, while skipper Shreyas Iyer anchored the innings with a composed 66 off 35 deliveries. Srikkanth also raised concerns over the handling of pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah, who has struggled to make an impact this season after a demanding international schedule. Five matches wicketless. He got hit, too. He needs a mental break and a physical break. He gave his life and was at the peak of his prowess in the T20 World Cup. He was in the running for the Player of the Tournament award. They are now overburdening him, Srikkanth opined. Bumrah conceded 41 runs in his four overs without taking a wicket in the match, compounding MIs problems as the bowling unit failed to apply any sustained pressure. Five matches wicketless. He got hit, too. He needs a mental break and a physical break. He gave his life and was at the peak of his prowess in the T20 World Cup. He was in the running for the Player of the Tournament award. They are now overburdening him, Srikkanth opined. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With results not going their way, MI now face increasing scrutiny over team balance and workload management as the tournament progresses. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Keep Royal Challengers Bengaluru To 175/8 Despite Salts Explosive 63

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: A disciplined death-overs bowling masterclass by Delhi Capitals ensured Royal Challengers Bengaluru were restricted to a competitive but seemingly under-par 175/8 in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday. Despite a blistering 63 off 38 balls from opener Phil Salt, laced with four boundaries and three sixes, RCB's innings stalled significantly in the second half as DC's bowlers conceded only eight runs in the final two overs while picking up two wickets. In all, DC conceded only 29 runs in the last five overs, while picking four wickets, with Lungi Ngidi, T. Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar bowling sensational spells on a slow pitch. Pushed into batting first, RCB had a brisk start. Salt looked dangerous from the get-go by carving Auqib Nabi Dar for a boundary in the very first over. Virat Kohli (19) joined the act with a signature aerial drive over mid-off against Mukesh Kumar, but his stay was cut short by Ngidi, as he mistimed a scrambled seam delivery to deep cover. Salt continued his onslaught to reach his second fifty of the season with a massive six over long-off against Kuldeep Yadav in the ninth over. But the introduction of spin turned the tide in DCs favour. Axar Patel had Devdutt Padikkal holing out to long-on, while Kuldeep Yadav delivered a body blow in the 11th over when he had Salt flat-batting to long-off, and Mukesh doubled it by having in-form Rajat Patidar edge behind to KL Rahul. Tim David provided a brief spark in RCBs innings by smashing 26 off 17 balls, including a flat-batted six off Ngidi that brought up his 1000th IPL run. But Axar struck again by dismissing David, whose leading edge was caught by the short third man, while Romario Shepherd was trapped lbw by Kuldeep as RCB went from 110/3 to 149/6. The final two overs saw DCs pacers assert total dominance. Natarajan was exceptional in the 19th over, firing in pinpoint yorkers and slower bouncers to concede just two runs. The 20th over summed up RCBs frustrations - Krunal Pandya was run out after a miscommunication on a wide delivery, while Jitesh Sharma holed out to long-off against an accurate slower cutter from Ngidi. DC may be primed to complete the chase, but with the pitch not easy to bat on, and RCB having a strong bowling lineup, they have their task cut out. Brief scores: The 20th over summed up RCBs frustrations - Krunal Pandya was run out after a miscommunication on a wide delivery, while Jitesh Sharma holed out to long-off against an accurate slower cutter from Ngidi. DC may be primed to complete the chase, but with the pitch not easy to bat on, and RCB having a strong bowling lineup, they have their task cut out. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'I Do See Sanju Captaining CSK At Some Stage', Says Ashwin

Chennai Super Kings: Veteran India off-spinner Ravichandran Ashwin believes that Sanju Samson could one day take over the captaincy of five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), while stressing that the wicketkeeper-batter should carve his own identity rather than follow in anyones footsteps. Speaking about CSKs leadership transition over the years, Ashwin said the shift had already begun during Ravindra Jadejas brief stint as captain, even though it did not pan out as expected. He added that current skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad has effectively been running the show alongside head coach Stephen Fleming in recent seasons. I think the mantle is already passed on. When Jadeja took over the captaincy a few years ago, I think that is when the mantle was likely to be passed on. Didnt quite work out, and then its been, Ruturaj I think Ruturaj has been running the show for the last 2-3 years along with Fleming, Ashwin told ESPNCricinfo. The former CSK player went on to say that Samson could eventually lead the five-time IPL champions, though he refrained from predicting a timeline. The mantle passing over, if you ask me, I mean, Im no astrologer, but all I can tell you is I do see Sanju captaining CSK at some stage. Dont know when, but I do see that happening, he added. Ashwin, however, emphasised that Samson's leadership should not come with the burden of replicating past greats, in an apparent reference to CSKs legacy under MS Dhoni. The one thing I wouldnt want to risk upon or dont want for Sanju is him stepping into anybodys shoes. You dont have to really step into anybodys legacy. We dont necessarily need to live like that nor play like that, he said. Hes got his own unique clothing in which he lives, and I would like to see his own imprint on it. The very fact that we need to follow somebodys footsteps is where the issue begins. Then we dont live our lives, right? We start catering to somebody elses footprints. That is something I dont want to see him do, he explained. The one thing I wouldnt want to risk upon or dont want for Sanju is him stepping into anybodys shoes. You dont have to really step into anybodys legacy. We dont necessarily need to live like that nor play like that, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Samson will again be in focus when CSK face Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) at Rajiv Gandhi Stadium in Hyderabad on Saturday. Article Source: IANS

Gill Is Technically So Good That You Will Never See Him Fall Short Of Runs: Piyush Chawla

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India spinner Piyush Chawla credited Shubman Gills composed knock for tilting Gujarat Titans clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders decisively, while also pointing out the AJinkya Rahane-led teams failure to capitalise at the death as the turning point in the game. Gills fluent 86 powered GT to a five-wicket win at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Friday. He anchored the 181-run chase with authority and control, helping his side clinch their third consecutive victory. We all know what Shubman Gill is capable of. When he is on song, he is such a pleasing batter to watch. In this knock of 86, Gill played only cricketing shots. He made sure he put the KKR bowling attack on the back foot just by playing those normal cricketing shots. He played on the merit of the ball, hardly taking any risks. He just made sure that everything pitched in his area went out of the park. That is the beauty of his batting. He is technically so good that you will never see him fall short of runs, Chawla told JioStar. Gills innings ensured GT stayed ahead for most of the chase, even as KKR managed to drag the contest into the final over before Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan calmly finished the job. Chawla, however, felt KKR had let the match slip earlier despite a strong platform set by Cameron Green, who top-scored with 79. KKR looked like they were going to cross the 200-run mark easily after scoring 139 at the end of 14 overs, thanks to Cameron Greens brilliant batting. After losing three wickets in the Powerplay, the way they came back in the middle overs was magnificent to watch. Since the beginning of IPL 2026, we have been talking about the middle phase being a problem for KKR. Gills innings ensured GT stayed ahead for most of the chase, even as KKR managed to drag the contest into the final over before Rahul Tewatia and Shahrukh Khan calmly finished the job. Chawla, however, felt KKR had let the match slip earlier despite a strong platform set by Cameron Green, who top-scored with 79. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR eventually finished on 180 after losing six wickets for just 33 runs in the final phase, a collapse that allowed Gujarat Titans bowlers to pull things back and keep the target within reach. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: RCB Atmosphere Relaxed But Intensity High With Kohli Around, Says Venkatesh Iyer

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru batting all-rounder Venkatesh Iyer said the sides dressing room remains relaxed yet intense due to the presence of Virat Kohli and players clear about their roles as they look to extend their good run in IPL 2026 against Delhi Capitals at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. The atmosphere is quite relaxed. At the same time, no dressing room can not be intense where Virat Kohli is there. So obviously the intensity is right up there and everyone is very clear about how they have to approach all games. So far so good, Iyer said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. On role clarity, Iyer said hes doing a lot of hard work under the watch of batting coach Dinesh Karthik. Already there's so much going on, but if there is clarity of your role and you don't see beyond that, I think it helps to go out there and express yourself. I've been working quite hard with DK in the nets. Just waiting for my opportunity. But the team's doing really well. Everyone, whatever roles they're given, they are doing it 100 percent. I think it's just about waiting for my opportunity and whenever it arises, obviously with the impact player rule, I can go into bat anytime. So just putting in the hard yards at training and let's see what happens. On role clarity, Iyer said hes doing a lot of hard work under the watch of batting coach Dinesh Karthik. Already there's so much going on, but if there is clarity of your role and you don't see beyond that, I think it helps to go out there and express yourself. I've been working quite hard with DK in the nets. Just waiting for my opportunity. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But our bowling is very good and we have our plans set. It's just about going out there and executing it. We've come to a point where, yes we think what the opposition is going to do, but we back our strengths and see where it takes us, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: We Have To Turn Up Really Well As RCB Are Playing Really Well, Says Kuldeep

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Delhi Capitals left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav acknowledged the challenge of facing an in-form defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru and said his team must raise its game in Saturdays IPL 2026 clash at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Axar Patel-led DC arrive after a weeks break from the competition with an aim to end their two-game losing streak. We had a couple of days off and then obviously from 15th, we had one session in CoE and a couple of sessions here in Bangalore. So, lovely to have a couple of good sessions of training here. If you look at our team, we have quality in our side and work collectively, that's the most important thing. Playing against RCB because they are playing really well and we have to turn up really well, said Kuldeep in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. On DC's campaign so far, Kuldeep said, Look, we started really well. We looked like a complete team in the first two games. Obviously, in the third game against Gujarat also, we were very good. Unfortunately, we lost the game by one run. But, in the last game also I believe we got a very good start with the bat. But obviously, losing four wickets in four overs, that actually changed the momentum for us. On DC's campaign so far, Kuldeep said, Look, we started really well. We looked like a complete team in the first two games. Obviously, in the third game against Gujarat also, we were very good. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Even in a night game also, you have seen the spinners get a bit of help from the wicket. If I get a couple of wickets in the middle overs, that'll be very good for the team and that's my role. Article Source: IANS

DC bowl first against RCB in Bengaluru

Both sides were unchanged from their previous games for the afternoon fixture in Bengaluru

CSK Must Play MS Dhoni, It Will Give Them An Extra Edge Against SRH: Aditya Tare

Batting Coach Matthew Hayden: Former Mumbai cricketer Aditya Tare stressed the importance of MS Dhoni in Chennai Super Kings setup ahead of their key fixture against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Saturday, stating that the former CSK captains experience in a relatively young side, especially in high-pressure encounters, will be crucial. Chennai Super Kings need MS Dhoni more than ever. If he is fit to play, he has to play against Sunrisers Hyderabad in any capacity. I would personally want him to keep wickets for the full 20 overs because he is excellent behind the stumps. No disrespect to Sanjus wicket-keeping, but you need that experience, Tare told JioStar. With Chennai preparing for a crucial outing, Tare believes Dhonis leadership and on-field inputs could prove decisive in tight situations, particularly for a side blending youth with experience. There is a lot of youth in CSKs line-up and their two debutants Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer need that guidance of someone as experienced as Mahi bhai. The team has shown a lot of faith in those two players, but if you have MSD, you have to make him play. His presence will help Kartik and Prashant handle the pressure better. Mahi bhai has always been a great support to Ruturaj and to the bowlers. We have seen him constantly talking to the bowlers and guiding them and that is something which will give an extra edge to Chennai against SRH, he added. Reflecting on Gujarat Titans chase against the Kolkata Knight Riders, Tare highlighted Gills composure and control through the innings. There is a lot of youth in CSKs line-up and their two debutants Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer need that guidance of someone as experienced as Mahi bhai. The team has shown a lot of faith in those two players, but if you have MSD, you have to make him play. His presence will help Kartik and Prashant handle the pressure better. Mahi bhai has always been a great support to Ruturaj and to the bowlers. We have seen him constantly talking to the bowlers and guiding them and that is something which will give an extra edge to Chennai against SRH, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans chased down 180 runs with ease. Yes, the game went to the last over, but Shubman Gill had already done the damage with the bat. He looked in complete command and his shot selection was excellent. He ran singles and doubles well and played proper cricketing strokes. GTs Batting Coach Matthew Hayden would be proud of him. Gill controlled the middle overs against KKR and Gujarats win showed how KKR felt after the game. They simply had no answers to the way Gill batted, Tare noted. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Both Teams Unchanged As DC Elect To Bowl First Against RCB

Both Delhi Capitals: Both Delhi Capitals and defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru are unchanged as visitors skipper Axar Patel won the toss and elected to bowl first in match 26 of IPL 2026 at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on Saturday. RCB have started their title defence with four wins in five matches, while DC arrive after a weeks break with an aim to end their two-game losing streak. The wicket looks nice and hard. Since its a day game, it might be a bit slow. Also, Chinnaswamy is usually a chasing ground, so we would like to chase. Thats why we decided to bowl first, said Axar after winning the toss. On having a long break in the competition, Axar said, If youre winning, the break would be bad. But since we lost the last two matches, the break helped us regroup. Now we are back together as a unit and ready to start with fresh momentum. Obviously we are looking at the opposition but we are focusing on our own strengths and sticking to our plans. We'll follow our plans and see what happens. RCB captain Rajat Patidar gifted a sampling to his counterpart Axar before the toss began, as part of the franchise donning the iconic green jerseys for their annual Green Initiative. Happy to bat first because we were planning to bat first on this track. It's a day game, looking like a good surface. So we'll put a good total on the board and put them under pressure. We wear this jersey to show our commitment to sustainability and encourage everyone to make green choices for the planet. Of course, there was a lot of planning behind it (on playing well at Chinnaswamy). As you know, this year we have a final at Chinnaswamy, so we have to win all the home matches, he said. Conditions at the stadium are hot and dry for the afternoon fixture, with a slight breeze and scattered cloud cover. Square boundaries remain short at 65 and 64 metres respectively, while 73 metres is the straight boundary. In the pitch report, Pommie Mbangwa and Faf du Plessis opined that the surface appears similar to the previous match, though marginally drier with less grass. As a day game, the wicket is expected to play slower, thus bringing spinners into the contest. Playing XIs: Delhi Capitals: Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Sameer Rizvi, Axar Patel (captain), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Auqib Nabi Dar, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar Impact Substitutes: Vipraj Nigam, Ashutosh Sharma, Karun Nair, Dushmantha Chameera, and Nitish Rana Delhi Capitals: Pathum Nissanka, KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Sameer Rizvi, Axar Patel (captain), David Miller, Tristan Stubbs, Auqib Nabi Dar, Lungi Ngidi, Kuldeep Yadav, T Natarajan, and Mukesh Kumar Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact Substitutes: Rasikh Salam Dar, Venkatesh Iyer, Jordan Cox, Mangesh Yadav, and Vicky Ostwal Article Source: IANS

I Felt Like The Father Of Fielding But Shreyas Catch Makes Me Feel Like grandfather Of Fielding: Jonty Rhodes

Indian Premier League: A breathtaking fielding effort from Shreyas Iyer during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, with the Punjab Kings skipper pulling off a remarkable boundary save-cum-catch to dismiss Hardik Pandya recently, has caught the attention of Jonty Rhodes, widely regarded as one of the finest fielders the game has seen. The sheer athleticism of the moment left players from the Mumbai dugout, including Suryakumar Yadav and Rohit Sharma, visibly stunned, underlining just how extraordinary the effort was. Several former cricketers and experts, including batting great Sachin Tendulkar, praised Iyer for his brilliance on the field. The latest to weigh in was South African great Jonty Rhodes, who reflected on the evolution of fielding standards and shared his thoughts in a post on X. Watching Shreyas Iyer perform that acrobatic fielding to assist in taking the team catch made me appreciate how fielding has evolved since my retirement. For a long time, I felt like the father of fielding, but watching these modern athletes with their timing and awareness on the boundary line, makes me feel like the grandfather of fielding! Rhodes wrote. Rhodes also spoke about how boundary fielding has evolved over time, noting that such skills werent always a major focus during his playing days. I spent 99% of my career fielding in the inner circle, and when I started working as a fielding coach, there was no focus on the modern-day hotspots on the boundaries. It was only when I started working with Mumbai Indians and saw Kieron Pollard, and then Glenn Maxwell, performing these incredible airborne saves on the boundaries that we started focusing on not only taking catches off balls that were already beyond the rope, but even saving the ball from going for a sixer, and forcing the batters to run only 1 or 2, the Proteas legend added Rhodes also spoke about how boundary fielding has evolved over time, noting that such skills werent always a major focus during his playing days. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With impact players transforming the way that batters can continuously attack the bowling, even with the loss of 4-5 wickets, bowlers need to be backed up by their fielders, and Shreyas spectacular catch and release was a perfect example of that. But lets face it; when your head coach is Ricky Ponting, one of the greatest fielders in the game, it should not come as a great surprise to see such incredible feats in the field!, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

No Niggle, Purely A Match-up-based Decision: GTs Assistant Coach Parthiv On Washingtons Limited Role In IPL 2026

New Delhi: Gujarat Titans assistant coach Pathiv Patel has thrown weight behind Washington Sundar despite his limited bowling opportunities this season, stressing that tactical factors, rather than fitness concerns, are shaping his role. The all-rounder has had a fluctuating run in recent years, particularly with the Impact Player rule allowing teams to lean towards specialists. Often shuffled up and down the batting order, Sundar has struggled to build consistency, managing modest returns with the bat across seasons. However, this year, Gujarat Titans have shown greater faith in him by slotting him in the top four, a move aimed at giving him stability and clarity in his role. Parthiv, the teams assistant coach, clarified that Sundars reduced bowling workload is purely a tactical call. Theres no niggle. Washington Sundar is bowling really well. Its purely a conditions and match-up-based decision. On a surface like Ahmedabad, where there isnt much turn, it becomes difficult to use him effectively. If there were more left-handers at the crease, we would have definitely gone to him. Its just about finding the right situation to bring him into the game, he told JioStar. Parthiv also downplayed any concerns around the teams middle order, which has seen limited game time due to the top-orders dominance Theres no niggle. Washington Sundar is bowling really well. Its purely a conditions and match-up-based decision. On a surface like Ahmedabad, where there isnt much turn, it becomes difficult to use him effectively. If there were more left-handers at the crease, we would have definitely gone to him. Its just about finding the right situation to bring him into the game, he told JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With defined roles and a strong top-order strategy, Gujarat Titans appear focused on maintaining balance, even if it means some players have to wait longer for their opportunities. They have been on a three-match winning streak and will look to extend it when they face Mumbai Indians next on Monday. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch PBKS Vs LSG Clash, Know All Details

PCA New Cricket Stadium: Punjab Kings will host Lucknow Super Giants in the 29th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the PCA New Cricket Stadium. PBKS is the only team that hasn't lost this season. They have won four of their five games, and their game against the Kolkata Knight Riders was called off. Shreyas Iyer leads PBKS, and they have been especially good at chasing down runs, as shown by their impressive net run rate of 1.067. Their batting unit has always come through under pressure, which has helped them win nine of their last eleven matches while chasing since the 2025 season. This trend continued in their recent win over the Mumbai Indians. The Lucknow Super Giants will need to put in a lot of work to stop their rise, as they are full of confidence and in good form. Lucknow, on the other hand, is having a hard time right now. They are in seventh place on the points table and have lost two games in a row. In the IPL, the Lucknow Super Giants and Punjab Kings have had a fair rivalry, with both teams winning three of the six games they have played against each other. When: April 19, Sunday, 7:30 PM IST Where: PCA New Stadium, New Chandigarh Where to watch: The PBKS vs LSG match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Punjab Kings: Shreyas Iyer (Captain), Priyansh Arya, Prabhsimran Singh (wicketkeeper), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal, Harpreet Brar, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod (wicketkeeper), Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Mitchell Owen, Harnoor Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyla Avinash, Marco Jansen, Lockie Ferguson, Cooper Connolly, Ben Dwarshuis, Pravin Dubey, Vishal Nishad. Punjab Kings: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rishabh Pant (C), Aiden Markram, Himmat Singh, Matthew Breetzke, Mukul Choudhary, Akshat Raghuwanshi, Josh Inglis, Nicholas Pooran, Mitchell Marsh, Abdul Samad, Shahbaz Ahmad, Arshin Kulkarni, George Linde (replacement for Wanindu Hasaranga), Ayush Badoni, Mohammad Shami, Avesh Khan, M. Siddharth, Digvesh Singh, Akash Singh, Prince Yadav, Arjun Tendulkar, Anrich Nortje, Naman Tiwari, Mayank Yadav, Mohsin Khan. Article Source: IANS