West Indies bowl; NZ bring back Henry and Jamieson

The visitors made five changes, reflecting the conditions this game is being played in

Is Head's form a worry? How the Australians have prepared for the Ashes

Marnus Labuschagne has churned out runs, Steven Smith looks primed and Scott Boland has been in the wickets

IPL 2026: Gill, Rohit, Kohli, Dhoni Among 173 Players Retained By Franchises At Close Of Trade Window (ld)

The IPL Player Auction: Top Indian players, including Shubman Gill, Rishabh Pant, K.L. Rahul, M.S. Dhoni, Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Hardik Pandya, and ARshdeep Singh, were among those retained by their respective franchises while big names like Andre Russell, Glenn Maxwell, Faf du Plessis, Adam Zampa, and Davis Miller were released as the retention window closed ahead of next month's mini-auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. The biggest trade was for Rajasthan Royals' wicketkeeper-batman/captain Sanju Samson, which saw him go to five-time champion Chennai Super Kings in exchange for Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. India's 2023 ODI World Cup hero Mohammed Shami was picked by Lucknow Super Giants among other major moves. The player retention window for the IPL 2026 season closed on Saturday with all 10 franchises confirming their retained players ahead of the auction. Across teams, a total of 173 players have been retained, including 49 overseas players. A combined purse of 237.55 crore will be available at the auction for a total of 77 player slots. With each team allowed to have a maximum squad of 25 players, Punjab Kings have opted to retain 21 players, the most among the 10 franchises, while Mumbai Indians and Gujarat Titans have retained 20 players each. Three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders retained the least number of players, 12, while Sunrisers Hyderabad were second with 15 players. Five-time winners Chennai Super Kings retained only 17 players, including four overseas, while Delhi Capitals opted for 17 (3 overseas). The IPL Player Auction will take place on December 16 at the Etihad Arena in Abu Dhabi. Heading into the auction, Kolkata Knight Riders will have a purse of 64.3 crore, the largest among the group, to fill a maximum of 13 slots with six overseas spots available. Chennai Super Kings will have the second-biggest kitty of 43.4 crore to fill a maximum of nine available slots. List of players retained by the franchises: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) 16 players retained | 4 overseas | Total spent: 81.60 | Cap remaining: 43.40 Anshul Kamboj, Gurjapneet Singh, *Jamie Overton, MS Dhoni, Mukesh Choudhary, *Nathan Ellis, *Noor Ahmad, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Sanju Samson (T), Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube, Shreyas Gopal, Syed Khaleel Ahmed, Ayush Mhatre, *Dewald Brevis, Urvil Patel. Delhi Capitals (DC) 17 players retained | 3 overseas | Total spent: 103.20 | Cap remaining: 21.80 Abhishek Porel, Ajay Mandal, Ashutosh Sharma, Axar Patel, *Dushmantha Chameera, Karun Nair, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, Madhav Tiwari, *Mitchell Starc, Mukesh Kumar, Nitish Rana (T), Sameer Rizvi, T. Natarajan, Tripurana Vijay, *Tristan Stubbs, Vipraj Nigam. Gujarat Titans (GT) 20 players retained | 4 overseas | Total spent: 112.10 | Cap remaining: 12.90 Anuj Rawat, *Glenn Phillips, Gurnoor Singh Brar, Ishant Sharma, Jayant Yadav, *Jos Buttler, *Kagiso Rabada, Kumar Kushagra, Manav Suthar, Mohammad Siraj, Mohd. Arshad Khan, Nishant Sindhu, Prasidh Krishna, R. Sai Kishore, Rahul Tewatia, *Rashid Khan, Sai Sudharsan, Shahrukh Khan, Shubman Gill, Washington Sundar. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) 12 players retained | 2 overseas | Total spent: 60.70 | Cap remaining: 64.30 Ajinkya Rahane, Angkrish Raghuvanshi, Anukul Roy, Harshit Rana, Manish Pandey, Ramandeep Singh, Rinku Singh, *Rovman Powell, *Sunil Narine, Umran Malik, Vaibhav Arora, Varun Chakaravarthy Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) 19 players retained | 4 overseas | Total spent: 102.05 | Cap remaining: 22.95 Abdul Samad, *Aiden Markram, Akash Singh, Arjun Tendulkar (T), Arshin Kulkarni, Avesh Khan, Ayush Badoni, Digvesh Rathi, Himmat Singh, Manimaran Siddharth, *Matthew Breetzke, Mayank Yadav, Md Shami (T), *Mitchell Marsh, Mohsin Khan, *Nicholas Pooran, Prince Yadav, Rishabh Pant, Shahbaz Ahmed Mumbai Indians (MI) 20 players retained | 7 overseas | Total spent: 122.25 | Cap remaining: 2.75 *Allah Ghazanfar, Ashwani Kumar, *Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Mayank Markande (T), *Mitchell Santner, Naman Dhir, Raghu Sharma, Raj Angad Bawa, Robin Minz, Rohit Sharma, *Ryan Rickelton, Shardul Thakur (T), *Sherfane Rutherford (T), Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Verma, *Trent Boult, *Will Jacks Punjab Kings (PBKS) 21 players retained | 6 overseas | Total spent: 113.50 | Cap remaining: 11.50 Arshdeep Singh, *Azmatullah Omarzai, Harnoor Pannu, Harpreet Brar, *Lockie Ferguson, *Marco Jansen, *Marcus Stoinis, *Mitch Owen, Musheer Khan, Nehal Wadhera, Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Pyla Avinash, Shashank Singh, Shreyas Iyer, Suryansh Shedge, Vishnu Vinod, Vyshak Vijaykumar, *Xavier Bartlett, Yash Thakur, Yuzvendra Chahal Rajasthan Royals (RR) 16 players retained | 7 overseas | Total spent: 108.95 | Cap remaining: 16.05 Dhruv Jurel, *Donovan Ferreira (T), *Jofra Archer, *Kwena Maphaka, *Lhuan-Dre Pretorious, *Nandre Burger, Ravindra Jadeja (T), Riyan Parag, *Sam Curran (T), Sandeep Sharma, *Shimron Hetmyer, Shubham Dubey, Tushar Deshpande, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Yashaswi Jaiswal, Yudhvir Charak Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) 17 players retained | 6 overseas | Total spent: 108.60 | Cap remaining: 16.40 Abhinandan Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Devdutt Padikkal, *Jacob Bethell, Jitesh Sharma, *Josh Hazlewood, Krunal Pandya, *Nuwan Thushara, *Phil Salt, Rajat Patidar, Rasikh Dar, *Romario Shepherd, Suyash Sharma, Swapnil Singh, *Tim David, Virat Kohli, Yash Dayal Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) 15 players retained | 6 overseas | Total spent: 99.50 | Cap remaining: 25.50 Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Notes: Amounts are in crores, while * denotes overseas players. Article Source: IANS

Gaikwad to continue leading CSK in IPL 2026

Samson, who was traded in, is understood to open the innings for the team

Billie Jean Cup | Slovenia outclasses India to top the group

Billie Jean Cup | Slovenia outclasses spirited India to top the group

IPL 2026: Mumbai Indians Released Puthur Due To Injury, Franchise To Support His Rehab

Kerala Cricket League: Five-time IPL champions Mumbai Indians (MI) had produced a big shocker by releasing promising left-arm wrist-spinner Vignesh Puthur on IPL 2026 retentions day. The development had come as a shocker more so due to MI unearthing the Mallapuram-based Puthur from their vast scouting network and had impressed many in the franchises trials. Their faith in Puthur was vindicated when he dismissed Ruturaj Gaikwad, Shivam Dube and Deepak Hooda on debut in Chennai. But sources aware of the development told IANS that Puthur being released by MI is more due to his ongoing injury recovery. Vignesh is recovering from an injury sustained in Kerala Cricket League and MI will be continuing to support him in his rehab despite releasing him ahead of IPL 2026 auction, to be held on December 16 in Abu Dhabi, further said sources. Puthur had been ruled out of IPL 2025 due to bone stress reactions in both shins and was replaced by Raghu Sharma for the remainder of the season, where MI finished at third place. Though Puthur recovered to play two games for Alleppey Ripples in KCL 2025, he was then ruled out of the competition with a shin injury. Meanwhile, trade discussions between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul reportedly fell through after one of DCs two co-owners intervened to halt the deal. It is understood that the same owner played a key role in securing Nitish Ranas move to DC from Rajasthan Royals (RR), a move that surprised many within the IPL ecosystem, considering the latter were in definitive talks with KKR to trade Rana, who represented them from 2018 to 2024. Meanwhile, trade discussions between Delhi Capitals (DC) and Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for India wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul reportedly fell through after one of DCs two co-owners intervened to halt the deal. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score He would need some time for rest and plan plus prepare for his wedding after playing for Australia in the Mens T20 World Cup, to be held in India and Sri Lanka in February-March. His focus right now is more on excelling for Australian cricket, further said sources. Article Source: IANS

Gill hospitalised after suffering neck spasm

Gill was stretchered from the stadium to a private hospital at the end of the second day

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka, 3rd ODI- Who will win today PAK vs SL match?

PAK vs SL , 3rd ODI , Cricket Tips :Pakistan have won consecutive bilateral ODI series against Sri Lanka, as they have beaten them in two consecutive games to take a 2-0 lead. Babar Azam finally raised his bat with a century and led his team over the line in the chase. That must be so satisfying for Pakistan and fans. They will hope that they can see another master class from Babar as Pakistan will take on Sri Lanka in the final ODI. This contest will kick off at 3 PM IST on Sunday at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Sri Lanka will be hoping for a better performance to end the series with a win and earn some momentum ahead of the Tri-series. PAK vs SL: Match Details Date : November 16, 2025 (Sunday) Time : 3 PM IST Venue : Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium PAK vs SL: Live Streaming Details The Sports TV YouTube channel is the only platform to enjoy the live action of the third and final ODI between Pakistan and Sri Lanka for Indian fans. PAK vs SL: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 159 Pakistan : 95 Sri Lanka : 59 No - result / Tied : 05 PAK vs SL: Ground Pitch Report Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has been a brilliant batting track. Both matches have been high-scoring, and batters have found it easy going. Bowlers have to find a tight length, and cutters will be the go-to option for the fast bowlers. Spinners will get more from the wicket, and bowling in the first innings will be ideal. PAK vs SL: Possible XIs Pakistan : Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Babar Azam, Salman Agha, Mohammad Rizwan (wk), Hussain Talat, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed, Shaheen Afridi (c), Haris Rauf Sri Lanka : Kamil Mishara, Pathum Nissanka, Kusal Mendis (wk), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Kamindu Mendis, Charith Asalanka (c), Janith Liyanage, Wanindu Hasaranga, Pramod Madushan, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando PAK vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Wanindu Hasaranga has been the best batter for Sri Lanka because he is a spinner; he knows how to tackle the spin well. For Pakistan, Babar Azam has scored runs and looked at his vintage best. Probable Best Bowler Haris Rauf has seven wickets in two games. He goes for runs but bowls wicket-taking balls and troubles the batters. For Sri Lanka, Wanindu Hasaranga has bowled according to the pitch, and it is showing in his performances. Today Match Prediction : In both games, Pakistan have outplayed Sri Lanka, and they are better suited for this pitch than Sri Lanka. We predict Pakistan to win the third game. PAK vs SL Match 3rd ODI, Today Match PAK vs SL, PAK vs SL Prediction, PAK vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 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.

1st Test: Shubman Gill Admitted To Hospital For Neck Spasm, Day Three Availability Unknown

Pallekele International Cricket Stadium: India captain Shubman Gill has been admitted to a hospital in Kolkata after a freak neck spasm had forced him to retire hurt on four during the first day of the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday. Sources familiar with the matter have told IANS that Gill has been admitted to a private hospital, which has been the designated medical partner for the ongoing game after leaving the Eden Gardens with a neck brace on. It is understood that Gill expected to spend the entire night there and be under observation, with further medical tests to be done. The incident happened in the first session, when on the fifth ball of the 35th over, Gill played a nice sweep off South African off-spinner Simon Harmer over backward square for four. While the shots execution impressed the onlookers, Gill immediately clutched his neck in visible discomfort as he stood upright. The Indian team physio Kamlesh Jain attended to Gill on the field, and the Indian skipper was clutching the left side of his neck. With Gill appearing stiff and unable to move his neck freely, he walked off the field to retire hurt for four off just three balls. He didnt take the field for the rest of the day, with vice-captain Rishabh Pant being the stand-in skipper. In the afternoon, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said Gill was under medical observation and that a decision on his participation in the game would be taken based on further assessment. It is yet to be known if Gill will be able to play for the rest of the Test match, where South Africa reached 93/7 in their second innings and have a 63-run lead over India. During the second session, fresh broadcast visuals suggested that Gills neck issue had been troubling him even before the second days play began. As per the visuals, Gill was seen performing neck-loosening drills in front of the physio and coaches, and was grimacing in movement. India bowling coach Morne Morkel refused to blame the freak injury on Gills recent heavy workload of playing all three formats in India and overseas. I think we first need to determine how he got the neck stiffness. Maybe, (it was) just a bad nights sleep. During the second session, fresh broadcast visuals suggested that Gills neck issue had been troubling him even before the second days play began. As per the visuals, Gill was seen performing neck-loosening drills in front of the physio and coaches, and was grimacing in movement. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Gill previously suffered from a stiff neck in the lead-up to Indias first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru in October 2024, which eventually ruled him out of the clash. The same issue had led to Gill missing the second T20I against Sri Lanka at Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in July 2024. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Sunrisers Hyderabad Retain Core; Release Zampa, Mulder, And Five Others

Indian Premier League: Sunrisers Hyderabad have confirmed their list of retained and released players ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 mini-auction, set for December in Abu Dhabi. As per BCCIs November 15 deadline, all franchises submitted their final squads, with SRH opting for a balanced overhaul after an underwhelming title defence in the 2025 season. The 2025 campaign saw SRH finish sixth on the points table, winning just six of their 14 matches and missing the playoffs by three points. With the need for fresh direction clear, the franchise has made significant changesmost notably releasing eight players, including veteran pacer Mohammed Shami, who has been traded to Lucknow Super Giants. Australia leg-spinner Adam Zampa, Indian wrist-spinner Rahul Chahar, all-rounder Wiaan Mulder, and batter Abhinav Manohar were also released by the franchise. Domestic players Atharva Taide, Sachin Baby, and Simarjeet Singh joined the exit list as SRH trimmed down its squad to create space for new additions at the auction. Despite the shake-up, Sunrisers have held firmly onto their core group. Pat Cummins, who led SRH in 2025, has been retained and will continue as captain. Explosive opener Travis Head, rising star Abhishek Sharma, and wicketkeeper-batters Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasen remain integral to the squad. The franchise has also shown faith in young talents Aniket Verma, R. Smaran, Nitish Kumar Reddy, and Harsh Dubey. In the bowling department, SRH have kept Sri Lankan speedster Eshan Malinga, left-arm pacer Jaydev Unadkat, England all-rounder Brydon Carse, and promising leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari, ensuring continuity in their attack. With a blend of retained experience and opportunities to strengthen through the auction, Sunrisers Hyderabad will look to rebuild momentum and return to title contention in 2026. In the bowling department, SRH have kept Sri Lankan speedster Eshan Malinga, left-arm pacer Jaydev Unadkat, England all-rounder Brydon Carse, and promising leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari, ensuring continuity in their attack. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Retained players: Pat Cummins (c), Travis Head, Abhishek Sharma, Aniket Verma, R. Smaran, Ishan Kishan, Heinrich Klaasen, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Harsh Dubey, Kamindu Mendis, Harshal Patel, Brydon Carse, Jaydev Unadkat, Eshan Malinga, Zeeshan Ansari. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Punjab Kings Back Their Indian Core As Maxwell Headlines Released List

Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings have taken a strategic, future-focused route as they finalised their list of retained and released players ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 auction, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi on December 16. In a move that underlines stability and long-term planning, the franchise has retained a large Indian core while letting go of four overseas players, including star all-rounder Glenn Maxwell. Maxwell, who completed his third stint with Punjab last season, was among the five players released. Joining him on the exit list are Kuldeep Sen, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, and Pravin Dubethree of whom saw little to no game time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025. Kuldeep and Hardie did not feature in a single match last season, while Dube played only once, making their release unsurprising as the team looks to refresh its squad composition. Head coach Ricky Ponting emphasised the importance of maintaining a settled foundation while targeting specific upgrades. We had a great IPL season last year, and it happened because of every single player, Ponting said, thanking the released cricketers for their contributions. We will now be aggressively looking to secure high-quality overseas players in the auction, who perfectly plug the defined gaps in our middle-order power-hitting and all-rounder departments. This measured approach, centred on a settled core, is designed to build a deep, balanced squad capable of challenging for the IPL title. The retained list reflects this vision. Punjab have continued with a strong Indian lineup led by captain Shreyas Iyer and spearhead Arshdeep Singh, alongside promising youngsters like Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Musheer Khan, Harnoor Pannu, and Suryansh Shedge. The squad also boasts impactful all-rounders and overseas performers, including Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Azmatullah Omarzai, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mitchell Owen, and Lockie Ferguson, ensuring depth across departments. CEO Satish Menon echoed Pontings sentiment, stressing the importance of continuity. Our paramount goal was retaining the strong Indian core of our squad, which is absolutely essential for long-term consistency, he said. By securing key performers like captain Shreyas Iyer and spearhead Arshdeep Singh, we ensure stability in leadership. We will aim to execute a targeted strategy and focus on high-impact replacements. The retained list reflects this vision. Punjab have continued with a strong Indian lineup led by captain Shreyas Iyer and spearhead Arshdeep Singh, alongside promising youngsters like Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Musheer Khan, Harnoor Pannu, and Suryansh Shedge. The squad also boasts impactful all-rounders and overseas performers, including Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Azmatullah Omarzai, Yuzvendra Chahal, Mitchell Owen, and Lockie Ferguson, ensuring depth across departments. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Retained Players: Prabhsimran Singh, Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer, Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Marcus Stoinis, Azmatullah Omarzai, Marco Jansen, Harpreet Brar, Yuzvendra Chahal, Arshdeep Singh, Musheer Khan, Pyala Avinash, Harnoor Pannu, Suryansh Shedge, Mitchell Owen, Xavier Bartlett, Lockie Ferguson, Vyshak Vijaykumar, Yash Thakur, Vishnu Vinod. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals Add Jadeja, Curran In Major Shake-up Ahead Of Player Auction

Indian Premier League: Rajasthan Royals (RR) have officially unveiled their list of retained and released players ahead of the mini-auction for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 scheduled for December 16, signalling the start of a bold rebuild after a disappointing 2025 campaign. RR endured a tough season last yearjust four wins in 14 matches and a second-from-bottom finishprompting sweeping structural changes. The most dramatic development came with former captain Sanju Samson moving to Chennai Super Kings, marking the end of an era. In return, the Royals have added two world-class all-rounders, Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, in blockbuster trades that instantly reshape the squads leadership and balance. The franchise has also brought in Donovan Ferreira from Delhi Capitals, further strengthening its middle order and finishing depth. Rajasthan have let go of Sri Lankan spin duo Wanindu Hasaranga and Maheesh Theekshana, signalling a move towards a pace-heavy attack complemented by versatile all-rounders. Despite the churn, the Royals have retained a strong young Indian coreYashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Kunal Rathore, Riyan Parag, and Yudhvir Singh Charakalongside big overseas names like Shimron Hetmyer, Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger, and rising South African pacer Kwena Maphaka. The franchise has also backed impressive performers such as Kumar Kartikeya Singh, Tushar Deshpande, Fazalhaq Farooqi, and Ashok Sharma. With Jadejas leadership qualities, Currans versatility, and a young core loaded with potential, RRs rebuild appears purposeful and future-focused as the franchise looks to reverse fortunes in 2026. Retained: Shubham Dubey, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Kunal Rathore, Lhuan-Dre Pretorius, Shimron Hetmyer, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Dhruv Jurel, Riyan Parag, Yudhvir Singh Charak, Jofra Archer, Akash Madhwal, Kumar Kartikeya Singh, Tushar Deshpande, Fazalhaq Farooqi, Kwena Maphaka, Ashok Sharma, Nandre Burger Released: Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana Traded In: Ravindra Jadeja (from CSK), Sam Curran (from CSK), Donovan Ferreira (from DC) Released: Wanindu Hasaranga, Maheesh Theekshana Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Sanju Samson (to CSK), Nitish Rana (to DC) Article Source: IANS

Caoimhe Bray's hat-trick keeps Sydney Thunder winless

Seamer Bray finished with four wickets after Dunkley's 43 helped Sixers to 142

IPL 2026: Faf Du Plessis, McGurk Released From Delhi Capitals Squad

The Delhi Capitals: The Delhi Capitals on Saturday confirmed a 17-member retained core while parting ways with several big names, including Mohit Sharma and Faf du Plessis, as the franchise announced its player list ahead of the IPL 2026 auction scheduled later this year. After finishing fifth last season and narrowly missing out on the playoffs, the team opted for continuity at the top while making decisive calls on experience and overseas balance. Apart from Mohit and du Plessis, Delhi have released Sediqullah Atal, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Manvanth Kumar, and Darshan Nalkande. Donovan Ferreira has also exited the squad as part of a trade deal with the Rajasthan Royals that brings Nitish Rana to Delhi. The Capitals have retained their leadership and core performers, including Axar Patel, KL Rahul, Kuldeep Yadav, Mitchell Starc, and Tristan Stubbs. Young talents such as Abishek Porel, Sameer Rizvi, Ashutosh Sharma, and Vipraj Nigam have also been backed, signalling the franchises intention to develop a stable, long-term group. Speaking on the retention strategy, franchise chairman and co-owner Kiran Kumar Grandhi said the teams near-miss in IPL 2025 offered clarity on what needed to be strengthened. We had a promising campaign last season. The team showed great quality and spirit, even though we narrowly missed out on the playoffs, Grandhi said. The auction gives us an opportunity to strengthen the areas where we fell short and build a more balanced squad around the players we have retained. Co-owner Parth Jindal echoed those sentiments, emphasising Delhis confidence in the retained group. We are pleased with the players weve retained we saw how well they performed together, especially in the first half of last season. Our coaches and scouts have been working tirelessly to identify players who can complement our core group, Jindal said. Head coach Hemang Badani highlighted the teams need for consistency through the season and the chance to plug key gaps through the auction. Last season had its highs and lows. We played some really good cricket but fell just short of a playoff spot. We know the areas that need strengthening, and the auction will allow us to make those fine adjustments around the group we have retained, Badani said. Delhi Capitals' retained players: Head coach Hemang Badani highlighted the teams need for consistency through the season and the chance to plug key gaps through the auction. Last season had its highs and lows. We played some really good cricket but fell just short of a playoff spot. We know the areas that need strengthening, and the auction will allow us to make those fine adjustments around the group we have retained, Badani said. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Released: Mohit Sharma, Faf du Plessis, Sediqullah Atal, Jake Fraser-McGurk, Manvanth Kumar, Darshan Nalkande, Donovan Ferreira Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Bishnoi, Miller, Akash Deep Among Big Players Released By LSG

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants managed to retain some quality players ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, but released six players, with spin sensation Ravi Bishnoi, destructive batter David Miller and pacer Akash Deep among those leaving the franchise. Rishabh Pant, who was the most expensive buy at the IPL 2025 auction when LSG bid for him, will continue to lead the franchise, whereas Nicholas Pooran, one of the most dangerous hard-hitters in the tournament and in the 20-over format, has also been retained. Australias T20I skipper Mitchell Marsh, who has emerged as a destructive top-order batter in the format, has also found a place in the team for the 2026 edition of the tournament. Among bowlers, Digvesh Rathi, who grabbed several eyeballs last year, will continue to represent the franchise and will be joined by Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan and Mohsin Khan. Before the retention deadline, LSG traded in Mohammad Shami from Sunrisers Hyderabad and Arjun Tendulkar from the Mumbai Indians to bolster their squad. Additionally, they traded out Shardul Thakur to MI on Thursday. Despite several significant adjustments to their squad and leadership, the Lucknow Super Giants did not see improved results in IPL 2025. Rishabh Pant took over as captain from KL Rahul, with Zaheer Khan stepping in as team mentor. Nevertheless, the team once again missed the playoffs, finishing seventh on the points table, mirroring their previous season's outcome. The team lost consecutive matches towards the end of the league stage, which cost them a spot in the knockouts. LSG aim to rebound in the next season by making key squad changes before the auction. Retained: Rishabh Pant (c), Nicholas Pooran, Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, Himmat Singh, Mitchell Marsh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Arshin Kulkarni, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, M Siddharth, Digvesh Rathi, Prince Yadav, Akash Singh Released: Ravi Bishnoi, David Miller, Akash Deep, Aryan Juyal, Yuvraj Chaudhary, Rajvardhan Hangargekar. Retained: Rishabh Pant (c), Nicholas Pooran, Abdul Samad, Ayush Badoni, Aiden Markram, Matthew Breetzke, Himmat Singh, Mitchell Marsh, Shahbaz Ahmed, Arshin Kulkarni, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, Mohsin Khan, M Siddharth, Digvesh Rathi, Prince Yadav, Akash Singh Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Traded Out: Shardul Thakur (to MI) Article Source: IANS

1st Test: If India Can Keep South Africas Lead To Under 125, It Should Be Chaseable, Says Axar Patel

Though South Africa: Indias left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Axar Patel said the Eden Gardens surface was offering contrasting behaviour from either end, and noted that India would be confident chasing anything under 125, given the challenging nature of the pitch at the end of Day Two in the first Test against South Africa. At the close of Day Twos play, South Africa were reduced to 93/7 in 35 overs, with Ravindra Jadeja taking 4-29. Though South Africa have a lead of 63 runs, the game is still on a knife-edge, especially after 16 wickets fell on Day Two. India were also bowled out for 189 in 62.2 overs and had a slender 30-run lead. Obviously, from one end, it feels like it's going straight, but from the other end, too much of a turn and bounce is happening. I feel that you have to play attacking cricket as a batter, and only then can you make runs. With the way wicket is right now, if we can keep them under 125, it should be easy and chaseable, Axar told broadcasters at the end of day twos play. He stressed that batters could not afford to settle into a defensive rhythm on such a two-paced pitch with uneven bounce. When you get loose balls, you have to convert them into runs and keep an attacking mindset. Its not like you can defend and then feel that you are set on this wicket because you are never really set on this wicket. So, whenever you get a ball outside off-stump or leg stump, you can look to do the sweep or reverse-sweep. Obviously, from one end, it feels like it's going straight, but from the other end, too much of a turn and bounce is happening. I feel that you have to play attacking cricket as a batter, and only then can you make runs. With the way wicket is right now, if we can keep them under 125, it should be easy and chaseable, Axar told broadcasters at the end of day twos play. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score At that time, you have to show patience, which is very important. Yes, when a bowler makes a mistake on such a pitch, its a chance for a batter to make runs. But when the wicket helps a bowler, it is indeed advantageous. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: MI Retain Their Core, Release Vignesh Puthur In Major Shock

The Mumbai Indians: The Mumbai Indians have retained their core group of players ahead of the IPL 2026 auctions, but released one of their rising stars from last season, Vignesh Puthur, on Saturday. The five-time champions had a whirlwind season last year, making a memorable comeback after losing their first four matches in the tournament. The team even came close to winning a record sixth trophy but was eliminated in the knockout stages after securing a top-four place. With the retention window closed, MI has retained their key senior playersRohit Sharma, Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Suryakumar Yadavwhile restructuring the remaining team to achieve better balance across different departments. Before announcing their releases and retentions, MI traded in Sherfane Rutherford from the Gujarat Titans and Shardul Thakur from the Lucknow Super Giants to strengthen their squad. Then on Saturday morning, the Hardik Pandya-led franchise traded in Mayank Markande from Kolkata Knight Riders as the leg-spinner returned to his former franchise. In a shocker for many, MI traded out Arjun Tendulkar, the son of the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, who was roped into the franchise at the 2021 auction and had since remained with the side, making his debut in 2023. Among the other players released are Vignesh Puthur, who emerged as a sensation for the franchise in 2025, and Reece Topley, a senior English pacer. Retained - Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Robin Minz, Ryan Rickelton, Hardik Pandya (C), Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch, Raj Bawa, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Deepak Chahar, Ashwani Kumar, Raghu Sharma, AM Ghazanfar Released - Satyanarayana Raju, KL Shrijeet, Lizaad Williams, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Bevon Jacobs, Reece Topley, Vignesh Puthur, Karn Sharma Retained - Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Robin Minz, Ryan Rickelton, Hardik Pandya (C), Naman Dhir, Mitchell Santner, Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch, Raj Bawa, Trent Boult, Jasprit Bumrah, Deepak Chahar, Ashwani Kumar, Raghu Sharma, AM Ghazanfar Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Traded out - Arjun Tendulkar (to LSG) Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Kolkata Knight Riders Release Andre Russell Ahead Of Mini Auction

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) have released superstar all-rounder Andre Russell, ending a long and decorated association with the franchise ahead of the IPL 2026 auction. Russell, who was with KKR for 12 crore, headlines a dramatic overhaul that sees the two-time champions part ways with nine players, including six overseas names and high-profile Indian performers. Along with West Indies' Russell, KKR has also released Venkatesh Iyer (23.75 crore), Quinton de Kock (3.60 crore), Moeen Ali (2 crore), Anrich Nortje (6.50 crore), Spencer Johnson (2.80 crore), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (2 crore), Chetan Sakariya (75 lakh), and Luvnith Sisodia (30 lakh). The franchise, a three-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champion, has further completed a trade, sending Mayank Markande (30 lakh) to the Mumbai Indians in exchange for left-arm pacer Arjun Tendulkar, who now joins the retained group at 30 lakh. KKRs retained core for the 2026 season remains strong, anchored by Rinku Singh (13 crore), Varun Chakravarthy (12 crore), and veteran all-rounder Sunil Narine (12 crore). The side has also held on to all-rounder Harshit Rana (4 crore), Ramandeep Singh (4 crore), Angkrish Raghuvanshi (3 crore), Vaibhav Arora (1.80 crore), Rovman Powell (1.50 crore), Ajinkya Rahane (1.50 crore), Umran Malik (75 lakh), Manish Pandey (75 lakh), Anukul Roy (40 lakh) and Arjun Tendulkar (30 lakh). With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) adding an additional 5 crore to each franchises purse, KKR will enter the IPL 2026 auction with a sizeable 64.30 crore, giving them one of the strongest budgets to rebuild their squad. Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) players retained and released list ahead of IPL 2026 auction: With the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) adding an additional 5 crore to each franchises purse, KKR will enter the IPL 2026 auction with a sizeable 64.30 crore, giving them one of the strongest budgets to rebuild their squad. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Released: Venkatesh Iyer, Quinton de Kock, Moeen Ali, Anrich Nortje, Spencer Johnson, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Chetan Sakariya, Luvnith Sisodia. Article Source: IANS

1st Test: Jadeja Takes Four As South Africa Slump To 93/7, Lead India By 63 Runs (ld)

Though South Africa: Ravindra Jadeja spun a web around South Africas batting line-up to claim four wickets while bowling from the Pavilion End as the visitors were reduced to 93/7 in 35 overs at stumps on Day Two of the first Test at Eden Gardens on Saturday. Though South Africa has a lead of 63 runs, Jadeja picking 4-29 meant the game is still on a knife-edge, especially after 16 wickets fell on the second day. After dismissing India for 189, with the hosts having a slender 30-run lead, South Africa appeared to have levelled the contest, especially with Shubman Gill absent from the field after retiring hurt for four due to a neck spasm. But their batting collapsed under the pressure of high-quality spin and questionable shot selection, thus handing India the advantage at the close of days play. The challenging two-paced pitch continues to play its tricks, with variable bounce and sharp turn making batting increasingly difficult. While a chase of 125 would look steep, it would require South Africa to nearly double their current lead, which is no easy task on this surface. In the morning, off-spinner Simon Harmer picked four wickets as India were bowled out for 189, though the hosts took a slender 30-run lead. Much like South Africas first innings on day one, Indias batting display was marked by modest contributions and a lack of substantial partnerships, with the 57-run stand between KL Rahul and Washington Sundar being the highest partnership. Rahul was the only batter from India to cross the 30-run mark, as the hosts' innings unravelled quickly from 153/4, India lost their last five wickets for just 36 runs to be dismissed for 189. For South Africa, Harmer extracted turn well and varied his pace beautifully on a challenging two-paced pitch with uneven bounce to grab figures of 4-30, while Marco Jansen took 3-35. In the morning, Rahul and Washington Sundar did brilliantly to navigate and get runs in the face of tough batting conditions. While Rahul got going to get fours off Maharaj and Marco Jansen en route to be the 18th Indian batter to amass 4,000 Test runs, Sundar looked assured in clipping Jansen for four, before sweeping and lofting Maharaj for four and six respectively. South Africas plan to bring in Harmer worked when he got a sharp turn to square up Sundar, and the outside edge was caught by first slip. Gill looked elegant in sweeping Harmer for four before retiring hurt immediately due to a freak neck spasm. Despite that, Rahul took up an aggressive route by dancing down the pitch to whip Maharaj for six. Rishabh Pant, playing in international cricket for the first time after recovering from the fractured right foot sustained in Manchester, was dropped by Aiden Markram at slip and got a boundary off Harmer. On the very next ball, Pant launched Maharaj over long-off for six. Though Maharaj had Rahul caught at first slip for 39, Pant dispatched him over long-on for another six and went past Virender Sehwag to hold the record for most sixes by an Indian batter in Tests. But a few minutes before lunch break, Pant attempted to pull off Corbin Boschs rising delivery, and the top-edge was caught by the keeper, with Jurel and Jadeja seeing off the rest of the deliveries till lunch break came. The second session began with Jurel being exquisite in his timing to cut and drive off Corbin Bosch for boundaries, while Jadeja played a beautiful leaning drive past cover for another four. Harmer struck again when, on his tossed-up delivery, Jurel was quick in closing bat face early, and the leading edge was grabbed by the off-spinner to complete a simple caught and bowled chance. After India managed to get the lead, Harmer came back to trap Jadeja lbw with his skiddy delivery, with the all-rounder also burning a review. One brought two for South Africa as Kuldeep Yadav nicked a down leg delivery to keeper Kyle Verreynne off Jansen, who later rattled Mohammed Sirajs off-stump. Harmer completed his four-fer by having Axar Patel caught at backward point, and with Gill not walking out to bat, Indias innings ended only one run short of 190. South Africas second innings began on a scorching note as Jasprit Bumrah troubled Rickelton with pace and bounce, and even hit him a couple of times on the body, though the batter still managed to pick two boundaries. Axar, taking the new ball ahead of Siraj, bowled a disciplined line to ensure Rickelton and Aiden Markram were kept in check. The breakthrough from Kuldeep came at the stroke of tea, when his fuller and straight ball trapped Rickelton lbw for 11. The final session began with Aiden Markram going for a sweep off Jadeja, but the ball took a thick top edge and was caught by Dhruv Jurel at short leg. Then, in the 17th over, got some turn to take Wiaan Mulders outside edge and was caught by keeper-cum-stand-in captain Rishabh Pant. Two balls later, Tony de Zorzi was undone by a turn from Jadeja that grazed his glove, hit the pad, and was caught by Jurel at short leg. Though Temba Bavuma continued to hit boundaries, South Africa was losing wickets from the other end Jadeja got one to just straighten in and go past Tristan Stubbs outside edge to hit top of off-stump, while Kyle Verreynnes slog-sweep made for an ugly look as Axar Patel rattled his middle stump. Though Bavuma was unbeaten on 29, India had another breakthrough before stumps when Kuldeep Yadav found a thin edge on Marco Jansens attempted slog sweep, and KL Rahul at first slip managed to hold on after an initial fumble. With day three possibly becoming the last day of this topsy-turvy game, everything is still there to play for both India and South Africa. Two balls later, Tony de Zorzi was undone by a turn from Jadeja that grazed his glove, hit the pad, and was caught by Jurel at short leg. Though Temba Bavuma continued to hit boundaries, South Africa was losing wickets from the other end Jadeja got one to just straighten in and go past Tristan Stubbs outside edge to hit top of off-stump, while Kyle Verreynnes slog-sweep made for an ugly look as Axar Patel rattled his middle stump. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score South Africa 159 and 93/7 in 35 overs (Temba Bavuma 29 not out, Marco Jansen 13; Ravindra Jadeja 4-29, Kuldeep Yadav 2-12) lead India 189 all out in 62.2 overs (KL Rahul 39, Washington Sundar 29; Simon Harmer 4-30, Marco Jansen 3-35) by 63 runs Article Source: IANS

New Zealand vs West Indies, 1st ODI- Who will win today NZ vs WI match?

NZ vs WI, 1st ODI, Cricket Tips: New Zealand dominated West Indies in the recently concluded T20I series and recorded a 3-1 series win. They looked in control and were the better team. These sides will now be ready for three ODIs, starting on Sunday. The first ODI will be held at Hagley Oval, starting at 6:30 AM IST. West Indies have managed to come close in almost every T20I, but it was the same old story, where they failed to hold on to momentum. Hence, that can still haunt them here. Their inability to bat for the full 50 overs will be tested in these tough conditions, while New Zealand will look to carry on their good form. NZ vs WI: Match Details Date : November 16 (Sunday) Time : 05:30AM IST Venue : Hagley Oval, Christchurch NZ vs WI: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can tune into the Sony Sports Networks to watch the live action of the ODI series. On the other hand, the Sony LIV app or website will provide the live stream option. NZ vs WI: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches : 68 New Zealand : 30 West Indies : 31 No Result : 06 Tied : 00 NZ vs WI: Ground Pitch Report Hagley Oval has a good pitch for the fast bowlers. It offers good bounce with pace, which can be tough to adjust for the batters. Bowling first can be ideal in these conditions. The toss will be crucial, and chasing will be a good option. NZ vs WI: Possible XIs New Zealand : Devon Conway (wk), Rachin Ravindra, Will Young, Daryl Mitchell, Tom Latham, Mark Chapman, Mitchell Santner (c), Michael Bracewell, Nathan Smith, Zakary Foulkes, Matt Henry, Jacob Duffy West Indies : Alick Athanaze, Keacy Carty, Ackeem Auguste, Shai Hope (c & wk), Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Romario Shepherd, Justin Greaves, Jayden Seales, Khary Pierre NZ vs WI: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Form-wise, Daryl Mitchell was the best batter in the last ODI series against England. For West Indies, all the hopes will be from Shai Hope, who has great numbers in ODIs. Probable Best Bowler Jacob Duffy was the best bowler in the T20I series. He will be the one to watch out for. For West Indies, Matthew Forde was bowling in good rhythm. Today Match Prediction : West Indies have been guilty of getting all-out within 50 overs in ODIs. New Zealand are strong in both departments, and we predict New Zealand to win. NZ vs WI 1st ODI, Today Match NZ vs WI, NZ vs WI Prediction, NZ vs WI Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between New Zealand vs England 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.

Andre Russell released by Kolkata Knight Riders

Russell has been a constant for the franchise since IPL 2014, and was among five players retained by the franchise ahead of the 2025 mega auction for INR 12 crore

IPL 2026: Pathirana, Conway, Rachin Among Major Names Released By CSK

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings have released 12 players, including two through trades, from their squad ahead of the Indian Premier League 2026 auction. While Ravindra Jadejas trade to Rajasthan Royals grabbed attention on Saturday morning, the franchise also let go of the Kiwi duo Rachin Ravindra and Devon Conway in a significant move. Another surprise was Matheesha Pathirana, as the Sri Lankan pace sensation was released by the five-time champions. Having signed Deepak Hooda, Rahul Tripathi, and Vijay Shankar at the previous auction, the trio failed to make an impact and were consequently released. Among the players retained are former franchise captain MS Dhoni and current captain Ruturaj Gaikwad. A major addition to the team is Sanju Samson, who was traded in from Rajasthan Royals. Moreover, Shivam Dube, who has been rising through the ranks after his all-round performances for Team India in the white-ball format, will continue to represent the Men in Yellow. Noor Ahmad, who was among the leading wicket-takers for the franchise last year, and Khallel Ahmed, who left an impact with his bowling in the powerplay the previous season, have been retained. Ayush Mhatre, the young opening batter who put up some terrific performances for CSK in the 2025 season despite the team finishing last, has found a place in the team for the 2026 season. Anshul Kamboj, the bowling all-rounder who recently put up some impressive performances in red-ball format for India A against South Africa A, has also been retained as the team looks to build a futuristic squad. Retained: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, MS Dhoni, Urvil Patel, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjanpreet Singh, Nathan Ellis, Shreyas Gopal, Mukesh Choudhary Released: Rahul Tripathi, Vansh Bedi, Andre Siddharth, Rachin Ravindra, Devon Conway, Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, Shaik Rasheed, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Matheesha Pathirana Retained: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Ayush Mhatre, Dewald Brevis, MS Dhoni, Urvil Patel, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Gurjanpreet Singh, Nathan Ellis, Shreyas Gopal, Mukesh Choudhary Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Traded out: Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja Article Source: IANS

Maharashtra Cricket Association Felicitates Smriti Mandhana With Rs 50 Lakh Award

Former MCA President Ajay Shirke: The Maharashtra Cricket Association (MCA) extended heartfelt congratulations to India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana and felicitated her with a Rs 50 lakh award on Saturday for her role in India winning the ICC Women's ODI World Cup a few days back. Mandhana played a key role in India's historic triumph at the ICC Women's World Cup 2025. She finished as the second-highest run-scorer of the World Cup, amassing 434 runs at an impressive average of 54.25. Her match-winning century against New Zealand in the league stage, earning her the Player of the Match honour, stood out as one of the tournament's defining moments and paved the way for India to reach the semifinals and subsequently become world champions. In recognition of her extraordinary contribution, the Maharashtra Cricket Association is pleased to felicitate Smriti Mandhana with a Rs 50 lakh award, celebrating her excellence and her invaluable role in elevating Maharashtra's and India's stature on the global stage, the MCA said in a statement. Reacting to the honour, Smriti Mandhana said, I began my cricketing journey playing age-group cricket for Maharashtra, and it is a matter of immense pride for me to represent my state. Our World Cup win was the result of collective effort, discipline, and teamwork from every player in the squad. I am grateful to MCA President Rohit Pawar and all office-bearers for this recognition. Maharashtra Cricket Association has been doing exceptional work for women cricketers, and the recently launched Maharashtra Women's Premier League, followed by the state team's victory in the Senior Women's T20 Trophy, reflects this commitment. Speaking on the occasion, MCA President Rohit Pawar said, The entire nation is immensely proud of the Indian Women's Cricket Team for their extraordinary achievement. Smriti Mandhana's remarkable consistency, determination, and match-winning performances were instrumental in securing the World Cup. We are delighted to honour her with the Rs 50 lakh award in recognition of her outstanding contribution. She continues to set new benchmarks and will undoubtedly inspire generations of young cricketers. I would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for consistently providing world-class infrastructure, opportunities, and an enabling environment for both Men's and Women's players to grow and excel. Their efforts have significantly strengthened India's position as a global cricketing powerhouse, he added. Former MCA President Ajay Shirke also extended his heartfelt wishes, stating, We are extremely proud of Smriti Mandhana and the entire Indian Women's Cricket Team. Their outstanding performances have elevated India's pride on the global stage. My sincere congratulations to Smriti for her remarkable contribution and to the team for their historic achievement. I would also like to express our sincere appreciation to the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) for consistently providing world-class infrastructure, opportunities, and an enabling environment for both Men's and Women's players to grow and excel. Their efforts have significantly strengthened India's position as a global cricketing powerhouse, he added. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Earlier this season, the Maharashtra Senior Women's Team clinched the Senior Women's T20 Trophy, for which MCA awarded the squad Rs 40 lakh. Article Source: IANS

Could See Happiness On Fathers Face After Winning Womens ODI World Cup: Shafali Verma

ODI World Cup: For Shafali Verma, the Player of the Match in India beating South Africa by 52 runs in the final to lift the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup trophy, one of the most cherished moments in the aftermath of the epochal triumph has been seeing sheer joy on her father Sanjeevs face. My father was very happy. Before coming back to Rohtak, I had met my father -- so he was very, very happy. My father is someone who doesnt express his emotions very quickly, but I could see happiness on his face. When I spoke to him on the phone for the first time after winning the World Cup, he said, Haan bhai, champion! I felt extremely good to hear that, said Shafali in an exclusive conversation with IANS, facilitated by JSW Sports, on Saturday. Her welcome at home in Rohtak brought out a lot of fanfare, and Shafali said that people addressing her as World Champion, as well as thanking her and the team for winning the World Cup, has been music to her ears. Yes, definitely, they are calling me the World Champion. When I went to Rohtak, everyone welcomed me with a lot of love, which was very good. Then it felt to me that we had really won the World Cup because the whole of Rohtak had come, so thanks to all of them for coming. These days have been going very well for me as I am getting a lot of recognition and getting to hear a lot of good things. The most unique thing is that people are saying, Thanks for making India proud. As a player or a sports person, we play to make our country proud, and we were able to do that, so I am feeling very happy about it. We are getting so much confidence, love, and we feel so blessed for this, she said. Shafalis arc of not being in the main squad to entering the Indian team for the World Cup knockouts in Navi Mumbai, while being in Surat for the Senior Womens T20 Trophy games due to Pratika Rawals freak ankle injury, and then being at the centre of the win in the title clash, reads like sporting folklore. Left out of the ODI team due to indifferent form, Shafali took the path of working on her game in domestic competitions in the last 12 months, where she finally found the groove of playing the 50-over format. When the ODI recall came, it arrived not with fanfare but with the perform or perish scenario at cricket's grandest stage. Though she made only ten runs in the semifinal win over Australia, Shafalis mature mindset helped her plan better for the challenge against South Africa in the final. The result was Shafali hitting a blistering 87 off 78 balls and claiming two crucial wickets, including that of the dangerous Marizanne Kapp. Yes, before the final, I had two or three things planned for the final. I also had a plan in my mind that this is such a big stage, and if one of my plans doesn't work, then I have to keep the other one aligned. So all my plans were getting executed well, and I am so happy about that. I played such a good innings and we won the World Cup. So I am so happy and very grateful for that. For the last year, I was not in the ODI team, but at that time, I kept everything aside and worked on my mind, body, and on my cricketing shots. As you could see, I was playing more along the ground in the final because of the rain coming in; the wicket was not good for batting. So, the last year, where I worked on myself, I was able to use those lessons on that day. So I felt very good that everything I kept aside for a year and worked on myself -- I am so happy that it became a memorable and very blessed day for me. I performed well for the team, and I am so happy with that, said Shafali. More than the half-century that was her first fifty in ODIs since 2022, it was her immediate impact with the ball that rattled South Africa. Skipper Harmanpreet Kaurs instinctive decision to hand her the ball proved to be an inspired move, as the move left the Proteas unsettled and shifted momentum firmly in Indias favour. I would tell Harman di before every match that I am ready to bowl and just give me the ball anytime. I keep bowling in domestic games, and that's why I have a little confidence in my bowling. We knew that it was such a crucial partnership and had been going on for a long time. When I was brought in to bowl, I thought that I had to get a breakthrough from here, no matter how it comes. When that breakthrough came in my first over, I felt very good. After that, I thought that I had to get Kapp out, too, because we all knew what things she could change. So it was in my mind that even if I don't get a wicket, I have to try to make her play more dot balls. So those things were executed well, and it felt very good, recalled Shafali. When Harmanpreet took that catch of Nadine de Klerk to seal Indias win, Shafali ran on the field in jubilant fashion. Actually, I had cramps in my calf, so I went out of the field for the last 5-6 overs. When she took that catch, I kept everything aside and ran on the field. I enjoyed that moment, just like the whole team did. After the World Cup win, Shafali would insist that God had sent her to do something special, and having done that, she felt that intuition proved to be spot on. Absolutely. When I got the Player of the Match award in my hand, I first thanked God in my mind because without him, I wouldn't have been able to do what I was doing. So yes, I definitely felt that God had sent me to do something and that he chose me for this, and I am very happy about it. Three years ago, as captain, Shafali lifted the U19 Womens T20 World Cup in South Africa, marking India's maiden world title in womens cricket. But the triumph on November 2 at DY Patil in Navi Mumbai, which became witness to Indias first major silverware in womens cricket, carries a different weight altogether. Ask Shafali about her belief in destiny, divine intervention, and whether this World Cup triumph will prove to be the watershed moment Indian women's cricket has long awaited, and the conviction in her voice leaves no room for doubt. Three years ago, as captain, Shafali lifted the U19 Womens T20 World Cup in South Africa, marking India's maiden world title in womens cricket. But the triumph on November 2 at DY Patil in Navi Mumbai, which became witness to Indias first major silverware in womens cricket, carries a different weight altogether. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score For womens cricket in India, the night of November 2, 2025, represented years of investment, planning, and heartbreaks, which finally resulted in a historic ODI World Cup triumph. For Shafali, the victory was more than a career milestone - it was the fulfilment of producing her best on the grandest stage after a surprise recall, and the quiet comfort of knowing her father, Sanjeev, in Rohtak was beaming with happiness on his face. Article Source: IANS

1st Test: Jadeja Takes Four As South Africa Reduced To 93/7, Lead India By 63 Runs

Though South Africa: Ravindra Jadeja spun a web around South Africas batting line-up to claim four wickets while bowling from the Pavilion End as the visitors were reduced to 93/7 in 35 overs at stumps on day two of the first Test at Eden Gardens on Saturday. Though South Africa have a lead of 63 runs, Jadeja picking 4-29 meant the game is still on a knifes edge. After dismissing India for 189 earlier in the day, with the hosts having a slender 30-run lead, South Africa appeared to have levelled the contest, especially with Shubman Gill absent from the field after retiring hurt for four due to a neck spasm. But their batting collapsed under the pressure of high-quality spin and questionable shot selection, thus handing India the advantage at the close of days play. The pitch continued to play its tricks, with variable bounce and sharp turns making batting increasingly difficult. While a chase of 125 would look steep, it would require South Africa to nearly double their current lead, which is no easy task on this surface. The final session began with Aiden Markram going for a sweep off Jadeja, but the ball took a thick top edge, and was caught by Dhruv Jurel at short leg. Then, in the 17th over, got some turn to take Wiaan Mulders outside edge and was caught by keeper-cum-stand-in captain Rishabh Pant. Two balls later, Tony de Zorzi was undone by a turn from Jadeja that grazed his glove, hit the pad, and was caught by Jurel at short leg. Though Temba Bavuma continued to hit boundaries, South Africa was losing wickets from the other end Jadeja got one just to straighten in and go past Tristan Stubbs outside edge to hit the top of off-stump, while Kyle Verreynnes slog-sweep made for an ugly look as Axar Patel rattled his middle stump. The final session began with Aiden Markram going for a sweep off Jadeja, but the ball took a thick top edge, and was caught by Dhruv Jurel at short leg. Then, in the 17th over, got some turn to take Wiaan Mulders outside edge and was caught by keeper-cum-stand-in captain Rishabh Pant. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 159 and 93/7 in 35 overs (Temba Bavuma 29 not out, Marco Jansen 13; Ravindra Jadeja 4-29, Kuldeep Yadav 2-12) lead India 189 in 62.2 overs (KL Rahul 39, Washington Sundar 29; Simon Harmer 4-30, Marco Jansen 3-35) by 63 runs Article Source: IANS

India smell victory after 15-wicket day on a tough Eden Gardens pitch

Led by Jadeja's four-for, India reduced South Africa to effectively 63 for 7 with three days to go in the game

Rehan Ahmed ruled out of England Lions tour

Legspinner suffered muscle strain during England's Ashes warm-up fixture at Lilac Hill

Faf du Plessis, Jake Fraser-McGurk on Delhi Capitals' release list

Mohit Sharma is also being released, while T Natarajan is being retained by Delhi Capitals

Pope shines again as Root, Brook tune up in England win

England XI haul in target of 202 as warm-up game with Lions goes the distance

India Storm Into Semis Of 2025 Womens T20 World Cup For The Blind

T20 World Cup: India advanced to the semi-finals of the Cricket for the Blind 2025 Women's T20 World Cup with a commanding ten-wicket win over the USA. In only their sixth match of the tournament, India secured their fourth consecutive win, defeating the USA by ten wickets in a contest that was as symbolic as it was one-sided. For the USA Womens Blind Cricket Team, this was a remarkable occasion. As they made their World Cup debut, the team was assembled from scratch over the past year, shaped through an unprecedented developmental partnership with Indian institutions that identified, trained, and nurtured visually impaired cricketers across the United States. Opting to bat first, USA fought hard but were limited to 60/8 in 20 overs, owing to Indias disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Tatyana (17 off 41, B2) and Caroline (12 off 26, B2) demonstrated resilience against a relentless attack, but wickets kept falling as Indias bowlers kept tight lines and created pressure throughout. Simranjeet Kour (B2), Sunita Srathe (B2), Simu Das (B1), and Ganga Kadam (B3) each picked up a wicket, while Indias fielders contributed with multiple run-outs a testament to their coordination across all categories. Opting to bat first, USA fought hard but were limited to 60/8 in 20 overs, owing to Indias disciplined bowling and sharp fielding. Tatyana (17 off 41, B2) and Caroline (12 off 26, B2) demonstrated resilience against a relentless attack, but wickets kept falling as Indias bowlers kept tight lines and created pressure throughout. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score India now turn their attention to what promises to be one of the marquee fixtures of the tournament: a high-voltage showdown against arch-rivals Pakistan on Sunday in Colombo. Article Source: IANS

Inaugural ICC Womens Emerging Nations Trophy To Begin On Nov 20

Emerging Nations Trophy T20I: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Saturday unveiled the schedule for the inaugural ICC Womens Emerging Nations Trophy T20I, to be staged in Bangkok, Thailand, from November 20 to 30, marking another significant stride in the ICCs global strategy to promote womens cricket and expand worldwide participation in the sport. The T20I tournament will be played by the top eight Associate Members, of which five hold ODI status, and the remaining three are the highest-ranked teams in the ICC Women's T20I Team Rankings as of May 1, 2025, the cut-off date. Eight teams - Thailand, the Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, the United Arab Emirates, Scotland, Namibia, Tanzania, and Uganda - will compete across two venues, the Terdthai Cricket Ground and the Asian Institute of Technology in Bangkok. The eight teams will play each other once in a single round-robin structure, with the trophy to be lifted on November 30. The hosts come into the tournament as the highest-ranked (11th), and do enjoy a nine-match winning streak in completed matches, though they will be tested with the bat against a strong field. ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta said, It is the ICC and the Chairs vision to sustainably expand Crickets footprint across the world and grow the womens game. Providing elite athletes from emerging nations more opportunities to play at the highest level is aimed at fast-tracking their development and improving the competitiveness of their teams. It also drives the visibility of the sport in participant nations, serving as a driver of girls involvement in the sport and inspires women from other nations to stay committed to the development pathways. Schedule: November 20 Thailand v Netherlands Papua New Guinea v United Arab Emirates Scotland v Uganda Namibia v Tanzania November 21 Thailand v Papua New Guinea Netherlands v United Arab Emirates Uganda v Namibia Scotland v Tanzania November 23 Uganda v Papua New Guinea Tanzania v Netherlands United Arab Emirates v Scotland Thailand v Namibia November 25 Thailand v Tanzania United Arab Emirates v Uganda Papua New Guinea v Netherlands Namibia v Scotland November 26 Tanzania v United Arab Emirates Thailand v Uganda Netherlands v Namibia Papua New Guinea v Scotland November 28 Thailand v United Arab Emirates Uganda v Tanzania Scotland v Netherlands Namibia v Papua New Guinea November 30 Netherlands v Uganda UAE v Namibia Netherlands v Uganda Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Thailand v Scotland Article Source: IANS

1st Test: Kuldeep Dismisses Rickelton Before Tea As South Africa Trail India By 12 Runs

For South Africa: Kuldeep Yadav struck early to dismiss Ryan Rickelton as South Africa reached 18/1 in 6.4 overs at tea, trailing India by 12 runs on Day 2 of the first Test at the Eden Gardens on Saturday. Earlier, India were bowled out for 189 in their first innings and held a slender 30-run lead over South Africa. South Africas second innings commenced on a scorching note as Jasprit Bumrah troubled Rickelton with pace and bounce, even striking him a couple of times on the body, though the batter still managed to score two boundaries. Axar Patel, taking the new ball ahead of Mohammed Siraj, bowled a disciplined line to ensure Rickelton and Aiden Markram were kept in check. The breakthrough from Kuldeep came at the stroke of tea, when his fuller and straight ball trapped Rickelton lbw for 11. With Markram still not out on three and set to be joined by Wiaan Mulder in the post-tea session, the contest remains delicately poised, with both sides looking to seize momentum in the final session on Day 2. Previously, much like South Africas first innings on day one, Indias batting was characterised by limited contributions and a lack of significant partnerships, with the 57-run stand between KL Rahul and Washington Sundar being the most productive agreement for the hosts. Rahul was the only batter from India to surpass 30 runs, as the hosts innings quickly unravelled from 153/4, India lost their last five wickets for just 36 runs to be dismissed for 189 in 62.2 overs. For South Africa, off-spinner Simon Harmer extracted turn very well and varied his pace beautifully on a challenging two-paced pitch with uneven bounce to achieve figures of 4-30, while left-arm pacer Marco Jansen took 3-35. The second session began with Dhruv Jurel displaying exquisite timing to cut and drive off Corbin Bosch for boundaries, while Ravindra Jadeja played a beautiful leaning drive past cover for another four. But Harmer struck on his tossed-up delivery, Jurel was quick in closing the bat face early, and the off-spinner grabbed the leading edge to complete a simple caught and bowled chance. After India took the lead, Harmer returned to trap Jadeja lbw with his skiddy delivery, with the all-rounder also burning a review. One wicket gave South Africa two, as Kuldeep nicked a leg-side delivery down to keeper Kyle Verreynne off Jansen, who later rattled Sirajs off-stump. But Harmer struck on his tossed-up delivery, Jurel was quick in closing the bat face early, and the off-spinner grabbed the leading edge to complete a simple caught and bowled chance. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 159 and 18/1 in 6.4 overs (Ryan Rickelton 11; Kuldeep Yadav 1-2) trail India 189 in 62.2 overs (KL Rahul 39, Washington Sundar 29; Simon Harmer 4-30, Marco Jansen 3-35) by 12 runs. Article Source: IANS

1st Test: Fighting South Africa Lose Ryan Rickelton After India 189 All Out

Spinner Simon Harmer took four wickets to lead South Africa's fightback as they bowled out India for 189 after the hosts managed a slender lead of 30 on day two of the opening Test on Saturday. India lost regular wickets to survive just 62.2 overs in response to South Africa's first innings total of 159 on a tricky pitch to bat at Kolkata's Eden Gardens. South Africa were 18-1 after Ryan Rickelton was trapped lbw off Kuldeep Yadav for 11 at the stroke of tea. Aiden Markram was batting on three. Bowlers have ruled the low-scoring contest with Indian opener KL Rahul's 39 being the top score between the two teams. India skipper Shubman Gill went out retired hurt for four with a neck spasm and did not return to bat in the innings that ended in the second session. India went into lunch at 138-4 and Dhruv Jurel started with two fours after the break before Harmer got the batter caught and bowled for 14 to trigger a collapse. Ravindra Jadeja took India into the lead with a boundary but fell lbw for 27 off Harmer and India sunk further when pace bowler Marco Jansen had Kuldeep Yadav caught behind for one. Harmer had Axar Patel out for 16 to return figures of 4-30. Jansen claimed three wickets. The hosts resumed on 37-1 with overnight batters Rahul and Washington Sundar, who made 29, extending their partnership to 57 in a grinding first hour. Returning Rishabh Pant hit a 24-ball 27 on a pitch with inconsistent bounce and more turn expected. Sundar hit two fours and one six in his otherwise laboured knock before falling caught behind to Harmer. Gill walked out to loud cheers but his stay was limited to three balls as he swept Harmer for a four at backward square-leg and then held his neck in pain. The physio soon arrived and Gill walked back to the pavilion. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Rahul kept up his hard work from day one when he made 13 off 59 balls and on day two looked more assured until his departure off Keshav Maharaj.

Lee and Wyatt-Hodge keep Hurricanes on top and Heat winless

Chasing a DLS-revised target of 125 in 12 overs, Heat were undone by two-wicket bursts from Molly Strano, Heather Graham and Nicola Carey

ICC launches Emerging Nations Trophy for women

Thailand, Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, UAE, Scotland, Namibia, Tanzania and Uganda will take part in the inaugural edition

1st Test: Harmer Picks Four As India Bundled Out For 189, Lead South Africa By 30 Runs

For South Africa: Off-spinner Simon Harmer picked four wickets as India were bowled out for 189 in 62.2 overs and took a slender 30-run lead over South Africa on day two of first Test at the Eden Gardens on Saturday. Much like South Africas first innings on day one, Indias batting display was marked by modest contributions and a lack of substantial partnerships, with the 57-run stand between KL Rahul and Washington Sundar being the highest partnership. Rahul was the only batter from India to cross the 30-run mark, as the hosts innings unravelled quickly from 153/4, India lost their last five wickets for just 36 runs to be dismissed for 189. With the contest finely balanced, the hosts hold a narrow advantage, though they are currently without Shubman Gill, who retired hurt on four due to a neck spasm. For South Africa, Harmer extracted turn well and varied his pace beautifully on a challenging two-paced pitch with uneven bounce to grab figures of 4-30, while Marco Jansen took 3-35. The second session began with Dhruv Jurel being exquisite in his timing to cut and drive off Corbin Bosch for boundaries, while Ravindra Jadeja played a beautiful leaning drive past cover for another four. But Harmer struck again on his tossed-up delivery, Jurel was quick in closing bat face early, and the leading edge was grabbed by the off-spinner to complete a simple caught and bowled chance. After India managed to get into the lead, Harmer came back to trap Jadeja lbw with his skiddy delivery, with the all-rounder also burning a review. One brought two for South Africa as Kuldeep Yadav nicked a down leg delivery to keeper Kyle Verreynne off Jansen, who later rattled Mohammed Sirajs off-stump. But Harmer struck again on his tossed-up delivery, Jurel was quick in closing bat face early, and the leading edge was grabbed by the off-spinner to complete a simple caught and bowled chance. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 159 in 55 overs (Aiden Markram 31; Jasprit Bumrah 5-27) trial India 189 in 62.2 overs (KL Rahul 39, Washington Sundar 29; Simon Harmer 4-30, Marco Jansen 3-35) by 30 runs. Article Source: IANS

Webster hits timely 78 in Tasmania's win over South Australia

Billy Stanlake was Tasmania's bowling hero as they made it five wins in five in this season's One-Day Cup

CSK set to release Matheesha Pathirana

Matheesha Pathirana, who last played at the Asia Cup this September, has been hampered by injuries in recent times

Shubman Gill retires hurt with neck injury

Shubman Gill walked off the field massaging the back of his neck immediately after sweeping Simon Harmer for four

IPL 2026: Irfan Pathan Suggests Punjab Add Backup Options For Chahal And Arshdeep

Royal Challengers Bangalore: Ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan advised the Punjab Kings to add backups for their frontline spinner Yuzvendra Chahal and pace spearhead Arshdeep Singh. Chahal and Arshdeep are crucial members of Punjabs bowling line-up, and they will be looking to build a strong bowling core around them for the upcoming season. Chahal, acquired by Punjab Kings for Rs 18 crore in the IPL 2025 mega auction following his release from Rajasthan Royals, proved crucial in their journey to the final. Despite missing two matches due to a wrist injury, he took 16 wickets in 14 games, playing a key role in Punjabs campaign before they fell short against Royal Challengers Bangalore. On the other hand, Arshdeep was one of the marquee picks at the IPL 2025 auction, becoming the highest-paid fast bowler at Rs 18 crore after Punjab Kings exercised their Right to Match (RTM) card. In IPL 2025, he also became the franchises all-time leading wicket-taker. He finished as the franchises top wicket-taker last season with 21 scalps in 17 matches games. There are two important factors Punjab needs to consider ahead of the auction. Firstly, with Yuzvendra Chahal being such a key spinner, having a reliable backup spinner is crucial to support the teams preparation. Secondly, Arshdeep Singh is an exceptional player who bowls year-round, and while hes irreplaceable, it would be wise to have a backup Indian fast bowler for the squad, Pathan said on JioStars IPL 2026 Retention Preview. Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden reflected on Lucknow Super Giants difficult season, emphasising off-field issues and bowling woes. There were significant off-field issues within the LSG camp last season, and it's clear they weren't a happy group. Considering the struggles, releasing Nortje to Kolkata Knight Riders might actually benefit LSG. Much of their bowling attack faced injuries or unavailability during the first half of the season, which was a real challenge, he said. Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden reflected on Lucknow Super Giants difficult season, emphasising off-field issues and bowling woes. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score LSG has invested 27 crores in Rishabh Pant as their captain, and I believe that investment is justified. Pant didnt quite show his full potential last season, but he is still one of those players poised to make a significant impact in the IPL. He hasnt peaked yet, once he finds his form, hes definitely a player to watch. However, the real challenge for LSG lies with their bowling unit, he said. Article Source: IANS

Ravindra Jadeja Joins Elite List, Completes Unique Double Of 4,000 Runs And 300 Wickets In Tests

Ravindra Jadeja: India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja added another feather to his already illustrious cap as he went past the 4000-run mark in Test cricket, becoming only the fourth cricketer in history to reach the feat in addition to picking 300 wickets in the red-ball format. As he scored his 10th run during the opening Test against South Africa here at Eden Gardens, Jadeja went past 4,000 Test runs, joining the legendary Ian Botham, former India skipper Kapil Dev, and former Kiwi sensation Daniel Vettori in the elite list of players with 4000 runs and 300 wickets to their name in Test cricket. While Botham finished his Test career with 5,200 runs and 383 scalps to his name, Kapil amassed 5,248 runs and picked up 434 wickets in 131 matches. Vettori, meanwhile, finished his red-ball career with 4,531 runs in 113 matches in addition to 362 wickets. As India faced South Africa in the first of their two-match Test series, Jadeja stepped out to bat on Day 2 and was just 10 runs away from reaching a milestone. He completed his 10th run in the 44th over of Indias first innings, and with that, became the second-fastest cricketer to reach the feat, as it took him 87 Tests to attain the milestone - the second quickest among the four, behind Bothams 72. Notably, Jadejas run tally in the format includes six centuries and 27 half-centuries, while he boasts 331 wickets at an average of 25.25, including 15 five-wicket hauls with the ball. Earlier in the day, KL Rahul also surpassed the 4000-run mark, becoming the 18th Indian to achieve this feat. It took him 3,977 days since his debut to reach 4000 Test runs, making him only the second after Mohinder Amarnath (6,214 days) to take longer among the 18 Indian batters to attain the milestone. Rahul was eventually dismissed on the penultimate ball of the 40th over, scoring 39 runs off the 119 deliveries he faced. Earlier in the day, KL Rahul also surpassed the 4000-run mark, becoming the 18th Indian to achieve this feat. It took him 3,977 days since his debut to reach 4000 Test runs, making him only the second after Mohinder Amarnath (6,214 days) to take longer among the 18 Indian batters to attain the milestone. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score India finished their first session at 138/4, reducing the Proteas lead to 21 runs. Article Source: IANS

1st Test: India In Striking Distance Of Taking Lead Over SA Despite Losing Three Wickets Before Lunch

South Africa: India have put themselves in striking distance of taking the lead over South Africa in the first Test at Eden Gardens, despite losing wickets at regular intervals during the morning session on day twos play. The hosts added 101 runs in the morning session, but also lost three wickets while skipper Shubman Gill retired hurt with a neck spasm. The first hour yielded 38 runs without any loss of wickets, before the tempo picked up in the second hour with 63 runs scored, though it came at the loss of crucial wickets. In the morning, KL Rahul and Washington Sundar did brilliantly to navigate and get runs in the face of tough batting conditions. While Rahul got going to get fours off Maharaj and Marco Jansen en route to be the 18th Indian batter to amass 4000 Test runs, Sundar looked assured in clipping Jansen for four, before sweeping and lofting Maharaj for four and six respectively. South Africas plan to bring in Harmer worked when he got a sharp turn to square up Sundar and the outside edge was caught by first slip. Gill looked elegant in sweeping Harmer for four before retiring hurt immediately due to a freak neck spasm. Despite that, Rahul took up an aggressive route by dancing down the pitch to whip Maharaj for six. Rishabh Pant, playing in international cricket for the first time after recovering from the fractured right foot sustained in July, was dropped by Aiden Markram at slip and got a boundary off Harmer. On the very next ball, Pant launched Maharaj over long-off for six. South Africas plan to bring in Harmer worked when he got a sharp turn to square up Sundar and the outside edge was caught by first slip. Gill looked elegant in sweeping Harmer for four before retiring hurt immediately due to a freak neck spasm. Despite that, Rahul took up an aggressive route by dancing down the pitch to whip Maharaj for six. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 159 (Aiden Markram 31; Jasprit Bumrah 5-27) lead India 138/4 in 45 overs (KL Rahul 39, Washington Sundar 29; Corbin Bosch 1-6, Simon Harmer 1-22) by 21 runs. Article Source: IANS

It's Good Prep And We'll Be Ready For Next Week, Says Zak Crawley

Big Bash League: England opener Zak Crawley insists the squad will be fully prepared for next weeks Ashes opener in Perth, dismissing concerns over their limited build-up to the series. The five-match series kicks off on Friday at Perth Stadium, but Englands choice to schedule only one warm-up game against the England Lions at Lilac Hill has faced criticism from pundits and former players. Crawley, however, remained optimistic after scoring a swift 82 off 101 balls in Englands first-innings total of 426, expressing confidence that the team will be ready for the much-anticipated showdown with Australia. Luckily, I don't have to worry about those sorts of things. I just try and turn up and play my role in the team. But, as far as I'm concerned, it's good prep. We're getting used to the weather, getting used to the flies. It's good prep and I feel like we'll be ready for next week, he told reporters on Friday. The 27-year-old is set to return to the Western Australian capital for the opening Test, having previously played for the Perth Scorchers in the Big Bash League. He said he is eagerly looking forward to walking out as an opener at the 60,000-seat stadium. Luckily, I don't have to worry about those sorts of things. I just try and turn up and play my role in the team. But, as far as I'm concerned, it's good prep. We're getting used to the weather, getting used to the flies. It's good prep and I feel like we'll be ready for next week, he told reporters on Friday. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score I played for the Scorchers here and Optus Stadium is an unbelievable ground, a lot of English people there hopefully and it's going to be one of the most special moments of my career for sure, Crawley said. Article Source: IANS

Gave My Everything, Now Im Moving On: Sanju Samson On Being Traded To CSK From RR

Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson, who has been traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) from Rajasthan Royals (RR) ahead of the IPL 2026 auction, shared a heartfelt note for his former franchise after ending a 10-year stint with the Jaipur-based side. With 177 IPL matches to his name, Samson is one of the league's most experienced players. Since his IPL debut in 2013, the senior player has primarily played for RR, apart from two seasons, 2016 and 2017, when he played for the Delhi Capitals. This will be his third franchise of his career. We are only here for a short period of time. Gave my everything to this franchise, enjoyed some great cricket, made some lifetime relations, treated everyone in the franchise as my family.. And when it's time..I am moving on.. Shall always be grateful for everything @rajasthanroyals, Samson wrote in an Instagram post. CSK, meanwhile, traded their senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja to the Royals along with Englands Sam Curran, as the duo will now be seen donning the pink jersey. Jadeja has predominantly represented CSK in his IPL career, but he is now set to play for the franchise where he began his league career- the Royals. Samson, who has now finished his stint with the Royals, shared that his dream was to be close to Dhoni, converse with him, and learn about his approach to the game. CSK, meanwhile, traded their senior all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja to the Royals along with Englands Sam Curran, as the duo will now be seen donning the pink jersey. Jadeja has predominantly represented CSK in his IPL career, but he is now set to play for the franchise where he began his league career- the Royals. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score When I came to play the IPL, after the match, I thought of meeting him. But several people were already there to meet him. I went and met him in the 8th year of my IPL. I waited to help my side win a match against the CSK. I made some runs and won the POTM. After that, I went and met him. After that, my relationship has been going upwards. It has been a very blessed feeling. I have done shoots with him. It feels like a dream, he added. Article Source: IANS

1st Test: India Skipper Shubman Gill Retires Hurt Due To Freak Neck Spasm

Shubman Gill: India captain Shubman Gill was forced to retire hurt on the day two of the first Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens on Saturday after suffering a freak neck spasm. The incident happened on the fifth ball of the 35th over when Gill played a nice sweep off South African off-spinner Simon Harmer over backward square for four. While the shots execution impressed the onlookers, Gill immediately clutched his neck in visible discomfort as he stood upright. The Indian team physio Kamlesh Jain attended to Gill on the field, and the Indian skipper was clutching the left side of his neck. With Gill appearing stiff and unable to move his neck freely, he walked off the field to retire hurt for four off just three balls. His departure brought India vice-captain Rishabh Pant to the crease, and was greeted by a loud cheer from the crowd as he made his return to international cricket following his injury layoff due to a fractured right foot suffered in the Manchester Test against England in July. The Indian team physio Kamlesh Jain attended to Gill on the field, and the Indian skipper was clutching the left side of his neck. With Gill appearing stiff and unable to move his neck freely, he walked off the field to retire hurt for four off just three balls. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score In the moments after Gill went back into the dressing room, a flurry of activity occurred between the Indian team dugout and the dressing room, with the medical staff moving in and out. Gill previously suffered from a stiff neck in the lead-up to Indias first Test against New Zealand in Bengaluru, which eventually ruled him out of the clash. Article Source: IANS

Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium: A Cricket Landmark on the Brink of Demolition

As per the latest news, the Sports Ministry has decided to dismantle the iconic Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi to construct a new Sports City as part of modernising India's sports infrastructure in support of its 2036 Olympics hosting bid. No timeline has been fixed for the start of construction, but a plan is in the pipeline. This is the same Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium which was built for the 1982 Asian Games. For the 2010 Commonwealth Games, extensive redevelopment was done but its status as Indias most iconic multi-sport venue, with a capacity of 60000, was never in doubt. Although built exclusively for the athletics and football events as well as housing Sports Authority of India (SAI), slowly to raise funds, it was also used for the music concerts, fairs and holding Government functions. It has almost been forgotten that this stadium has a significant place in the history of Indian cricket also, although originally it was never envisaged that the stadium shall be used for cricket, that too for the international matches. Thats why with the demolition of Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium; Indian cricket is also losing one more historic stadium. Incidentally all the big matches played here have some historic links. The main reason for playing cricket here was flood lights, which other major cricket stadiums in India lacked, to play day-night cricket. This stadium, packed to its full capacity for the cricket under lights (although the lights installed here were not cricket friendly) was a spectacular sight. Cricket was rapidly changing in the 1980s and 1990s, and day-night cricket matches began outside Australia as well. India joined the race thanks to this stadium, although setting was not perfect for cricket: ground being rectangular having a synthetic athletic track around it (to protect it, covers were placed which made running difficult for the fielders), lights not perfect for cricket, the large distance between the stands and the pitch, not having enough days to prepare the turf wicket etc. Two ODIs were played here: 1. India vs. Australia on September 28, 1984, Australia won by 48 runs. This was the first floodlit international cricket match held in India . 2. India vs. South Africa on November 14, 1991, South Africa won by 8 wickets. This tour marked South Africas return to international cricket and for the first time they played against India. The third and final ODI of the series was played here. This game also saw Sourav Ganguly, don the Indian jersey as he was on the field as a substitute. After this, no further international cricket match was played here. However, the journey of day-night cricket in India started from here and the response it received led to the spree of installation of flood lights in other stadiums. There are more memories of cricket here. Old timers still remember the memorable and explosive inning played by Kirti Azad in a benefit match, which was one of India's early floodlight exhibition cricket matches. It was played September 21, 1983, shortly after India's World Cup victory, between India XI and Pakistan XI in aid of the Prime Minister's Relief Fund and was played with all seriousness. The President of India Zail Singh was introduced to the team before the match. Kirti Azad was the hero and scored 71* leading India XI to a thrilling one-wicket victory. He hit 7 sixes including three consecutives off Pakistani medium-pacer Jalaluddin. This match was like a dress rehearsal for playing Indias first day-night ODI here after a few months. Chasing 198 for victory, at one time the hosts were at 101-7 and from here the two Delhi boys Madan Lal and Azad turned the game with a 86-run partnership in 57 minutes. In 'Runs 'n Ruins', Gavaskar mentioned this as 'Kirti's Bright Night' by writing about how the Indian team returned to champagne-filled celebrations at the hotel and how some teammates still had enough energy to move their feet at the hotel disco. Before this duel, a trial match between Sunil Gavaskar's Bombay versus Kapil Dev's Rest of India was also played here on September 6, 1983. Ashok Mankad scored a fluent 84 off 108 balls in Bombay's total of 200 and celebrated his appointment as manager of the Indian team for the second half of the Pakistan series. Some other matches played at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, New Delhi February 16, 1984: Bishan Singh Bedi Benefit Match, Indian XI v World XI. January 21, 1987: William Ghosh Benefit Match, Indian XI v Pakistan XI September 30,1987: Reliance World Cup Warm-up, India v Pakistan Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score December 30, 2002: Doordarshan XI v Nomads Cricket Club. The 1893 village cricket match in India with the British rulers on the issue of Lagaan (as shown in the film Lagaan) is said to have inspired formation of the Nomads Cricket Club in England and the club team visited India to celebrate its centenary.

IPL 2026: Hope To Win More With This Current Group Of Players, Says Jadeja After Being Traded To RR

Chennai Super Kings: After coming to Rajasthan Royals (RR) from Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in a significant player trade ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) retention deadline, veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja said he hopes to achieve greater success with the current group of players. For Jadeja, being traded to RR marks an emotional homecoming for him. He was one of the brightest young talents during the franchises title-winning campaign in 2008 under Shane Warnes captaincy. 17 years later, Jadeja returns to RR as one of the most accomplished all-rounders in the cricketing world Rajasthan Royals gave me my first platform and my first taste of victory, said Jadeja. Coming back feels special its not just a team for me, its home. Rajasthan Royals is where I won my first IPL, and I hope to win more with this current group of players, said the all-rounder, who joined RR for Rs 14 crore, in a statement released by the franchise on Saturday. Jadeja had been a mainstay at CSK since 2012, apart from the 2016 and 2017 seasons when the franchise was suspended. In 2022, he was entrusted with the captaincy but relinquished the role midway through the campaign and handed it back to MS Dhoni after the team endured a poor start. Joining Jadeja at RR from CSK is Englands seam-bowling all-rounder Sam Curran, who comes for an existing fee of Rs 2.4 crore. RR is Currans third team after being at CSK and Punjab Kings (PBKS). Jadejas return is deeply special for everyone connected to the Royals. He was part of our foundation years and to welcome him back now as one of the games most complete players is incredibly meaningful. Alongside Sam Curran, whose competitiveness and all-round quality strengthen our group, this marks a new and exciting chapter for the franchise, said Manoj Badale, RRs lead owner. Kumar Sangakkara, RRs Director of Cricket, welcomed the signing of Jadeja and Curran into the franchise. Jadeja coming back to the Royals is incredibly special for all of us. He understands the franchise and the fans, having been part of RRs IPL-winning campaign. Over the years, he has grown into a player who can influence the game in every department. His experience, composure, and competitive edge will add immense value to our group. Sam brings a different but equally important dimension. Hes fearless, adaptable, and thrives in pressure situations with both bat and ball. Together, Jadeja and Sam give us balance, leadership, and the kind of match-winning depth we want as we build for the future, he said. With Jadeja and Curran coming in, wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, who spent 11 years with RR, has now moved to CSK. Samson had signalled after the 2025 IPL that he was seeking a change and wished to be released by the franchise. Sanjus journey with the Royals has been remarkable. Ive seen him grow not just as a player, but as a leader who always put the team first and carried himself with calmness and integrity. He has given everything to this franchise, and we are deeply grateful for the role he has played in shaping our culture and standards. We respect his decision and wish him every success in the next chapter of his career, said Sangakkara. The long-serving wicketkeeper-batters decision to move to CSK for Rs 18 crore marks the end of a significant chapter for him with RR, where he had established himself as one of the teams most influential figures. Sanju was with us at trials when he was just 17 years old, went on to become one of our youngest captains of RR and since then, he has been an integral part of the Royals family for more than a decade, continuing to inspire everyone around him. His chapter with us has been one of belief, brilliance, and heart. Sanju has been an exceptional ambassador of our values, and we thank him for everything he has done for the Royals family, added Badale. While RR have traded out Nitish Rana to Delhi Capitals (DC) for his current fee of Rs 4.2 crore, Donovan Ferreira, the wicketkeeper-batter from South Africa, returns to the franchise after being traded out by the latter for Rs 1 crore. His chapter with us has been one of belief, brilliance, and heart. Sanju has been an exceptional ambassador of our values, and we thank him for everything he has done for the Royals family, added Badale. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Ferreiras return adds more power, flexibility, and finishing strength to RRs batting options. It feels great to return to a familiar environment. Ive had a good chat with Kumar and Im looking forward to playing my role for the Royals, said Ferreira. Article Source: IANS

RR trade Samson to CSK for Jadeja and Curran

Mohammed Shami, Mayank Markande, Nitish Rana, Donovan Ferreira and Arjun Tendulkar will also play for new teams in IPL 2026

Jadeja, Curran Traded To RR, Shami To LSG In Major Shuffle Ahead Of IPL 2026 Retention Deadline

The Indian Premier League: The Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises confirmed eight player trades ahead of the 2026 season retention deadline, with Ravindra Jadeja and Sanju Samson grabbing the spotlight. While the all-rounder has been traded to the Rajasthan Royals, the wicketkeeper-batter will now represent the Chennai Super Kings. Jadeja, who represented CSK for 12 seasons and played over 250 matches, is among the most experienced players in the league. Under the trade agreement, his league fee has been reduced from Rs 18 crore to Rs 14 crore, the IPL confirmed in a release on Saturday. Meanwhile, Samson will represent CSK at his current league fee of Rs 18 crore. With 177 IPL matches to his name, he is also one of the league's most seasoned players. This will be only his third franchise. Since his IPL debut in 2013, the senior player has mostly played for RR, except for two seasons - 2016 and 2017 - when he played for Delhi Capitals. England all-rounder Sam Curran will transfer from CSK to RR at his current IPL fee of Rs 2.4 crore after a successful trade. The 27-year-old has participated in 64 IPL matches. RR will be his third franchise, having previously played for Punjab Kings in 2019, 2023, and 2024, as well as for CSK overall seasons. Veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami will represent Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) following a successful trade from Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). Shami, the second-highest costly buy for SRH before the IPL 2025 season at Rs 10 crore, will transfer to LSG at the same fee. The senior pacer has extensive experience, participating in 119 IPL matches with five different teams since his debut in 2013. Prior to joining SRH, Shami was a key member of the Gujarat Titans (GT) and won the Purple Cap in 2023 with 28 wickets in 17 matches. Although he sat out the 2024 season due to injury, he had a significant 2023 campaign, taking 20 wickets and playing a vital role in GTs championship win. Leg-spinner Mayank Markande will rejoin the Mumbai Indians (MI) after a successful trade from Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). KKR bought Markande for Rs 30 lakh, and he will rejoin MI at the same fee. Markande started his IPL journey with MI, playing for the franchise in 2018, 2019, and 2022. He later played for Rajasthan Royals in 2021 and Sunrisers Hyderabad in 2023 and 2024. Overall, he has participated in 37 IPL matches and taken 37 wickets. Bowling all-rounder Arjun Tendulkar will join LSG after being transferred from MI. He will continue to play for LSG at his current fee of Rs 30 lakh. Initially selected by MI at the 2021 IPL auction, he made his debut for the franchise in 2023. Before the league confirmed the developments, IANS had reported on Thursday about the likelihood of Samson-Jadeja-Curran trades between CSK and RR, as well as about Shami, Tendulkar, and Markande's trades to their new franchises. Bowling all-rounder Arjun Tendulkar will join LSG after being transferred from MI. He will continue to play for LSG at his current fee of Rs 30 lakh. Initially selected by MI at the 2021 IPL auction, he made his debut for the franchise in 2023. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score All-rounder Donovan Ferreira is set to rejoin his first franchise, RR, after a successful trade from DC. According to the transfer deal, his fee has increased from Rs 75 lakh to INR 1 crore. Article Source: IANS

Hazlewood out of Ashes opener with hamstring injury

Michael Neser has been added to the squad, and Brendan Doggett could be closing in on a Test debut in Perth

Hazlewood Ruled Out Of First Ashes Test Due To Hamstring Strain, Neser Added To Australias Squad

New South Wales: Less than a week before Australia takes the field for the first Ashes Test against England at Perth Stadium, the hosts have suffered a huge blow as senior pacer Josh Hazlewood has been ruled out due to a hamstring strain. Hazlewood injured his hamstring during New South Wales Sheffield Shield match against Victoria at the Sydney Cricket Ground on Wednesday. Initial scans cleared him, but Cricket Australia (CA) said on Saturday that a repeat imagery scan has shown a hamstring strain for Hazlewood. Josh Hazlewood underwent repeat imaging today that has confirmed a hamstring strain injury. Initial scans Wednesday were clear of muscle strain however follow-up imaging today has confirmed the injury. Early imaging can occasionally underestimate low-grade muscle injuries. As a result, Hazlewood will not travel to Perth and has been ruled out, said CA in its statement. CA added that Michael Neser has been added to Australias squad for the first Ashes Test as a cover for Hazlewood and Sean Abbott, who also suffered a hamstring strain in the very same NSW-Victoria Sheffield Shield clash. Fast bowling all-rounder Neser has played two Test matches and made his debut against England at the Adelaide Oval in 2021. Hazlewoods injury means Australia are now scrambling to have enough fast bowling options in its line-up at Perth, especially with skipper Pat Cummins already ruled out due to a lower back issue. CA added that Michael Neser has been added to Australias squad for the first Ashes Test as a cover for Hazlewood and Sean Abbott, who also suffered a hamstring strain in the very same NSW-Victoria Sheffield Shield clash. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score The injuries to Cummins, Abbott, and Hazlewood mean uncapped pacer Brendan Doggett could also be in line to get a surprise Test debut at Perth. Doggett has taken two five-wicket hauls since recovering from a hamstring injury for South Australia. Article Source: IANS

Babar after ending century wait: 'You work out who your true allies are'

He had scored his last international century in August 2023, and when he ended that drought on Friday night, Babar Azam stood almost expressionless before sinking to his knees

Mark Wood Cleared Of Hamstring Injury Concerns Ahead Of Ashes Opener

Mark Wood: Mark Wood has been given the all-clear after a hamstring scare, offering England some reassurance ahead of the Ashes. However, he will sit out the final day of their only warm-up match at Lilac Hill in Perth against the England Lions. Wood reported tightness in his left hamstring on Friday following two four-over spells that opened the three-day fixture. He left the field partway through the second session after his second spell and later underwent precautionary scans. Following precautionary scans on Friday, England fast bowler Mark Wood has been cleared of any concerns regarding his left hamstring, the ECB said in a statement. Wood will continue to train as planned in the build-up to the first Test in Perth, it added. England have continued to manage Wood carefully as he recovers from the knee injury he picked up during Februarys Champions Trophy. Although he had aimed to return for the final Test against India in the summer, a training setback forced him to miss the entire home season. On the opening day at Lilac Hill - a quiet, suburban venue on the outskirts of Perth - Wood delivered several sharp spells despite the generally docile pitch. England have continued to manage Wood carefully as he recovers from the knee injury he picked up during Februarys Champions Trophy. Although he had aimed to return for the final Test against India in the summer, a training setback forced him to miss the entire home season. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score England Ashes squad: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Will Jacks, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Joe Root, Jamie Smith, Josh Tongue, Mark Wood. Article Source: IANS

Mark Wood Gets All-Clear In Boost For England

Pace spearhead Mark Wood was Saturday cleared any hamstring injury after a precautionary scan in a huge relief for England just days away from the first Ashes Test against Australia. The 35-year-old complained of left hamstring stiffness on Friday during the tourists' only warm-up game before the opening Test in Perth on November 21. It was his first match in almost nine months following knee surgery, with the veteran getting through eight overs before leaving the field. Following precautionary scans on Friday, England fast bowler Mark Wood has been cleared of any concerns regarding his left hamstring, the England Cricket Board said. Wood will continue to train as planned in the build-up to the first Test in Perth. He is not expected to feature on the third and final day of England's game against the second-tier England Lions XI in Perth on Saturday. Barring further setbacks, Wood is expected to lead the attack in the first Test, potentially alongside Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson and Josh Tongue. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score England, who last lifted the Ashes urn at home in 2015, have lost 13 of their last 15 Tests in Australia. The other two were drawn.

Scans clear Mark Wood of hamstring injury

Mark Wood will continue to train as planned ahead of the first Ashes Test, but whether England are going to select him or not remains to be seen

CSK set to release Conway and Ravindra

The five-time IPL champions have decided to invest in youngsters like Mhatre, Urvil and Brevis

Liam Livingstone set to be released by RCB

Another challenging question about retention for RCB is around fast bowler Yash Dayal, who has not played any cricket since IPL 2025 final

Played My Natural Game And Backed Myself, Says Vaibhav Suryavanshi After 32-ball Ton In Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025

Asia Cup Rising Stars: Soon after scoring a 32-ball century to help India 'A' hand UAE a big defeat in the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 opener in Doha on Friday, teen sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi said he played his natural game as it was a T20 format. Suryavanshi rewrote record books yet again, hammering a breathtaking 144 off just 42 deliveries to set up India As thumping 148-run win over UAE. His extraordinary effort powered India 'A' to 297 for 4, the joint fifth-highest total in mens T20 cricket, before the bowlers sealed a commanding victory. It was just my natural game, and it's the T20 format, so I wanted to back my own game, Suryavanshi said after his knock. I was dropped first ball, but I just thought I didn't want to change my intent because we needed a big score on this ground. The wicket was good and the boundary was small. So I was trying to back my shots, Suryavanshi told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net). Suryavanshis knock was an exhibition of clean, fearless hitting. The 14-year-old left-hander smashed 11 fours and 15 sixes, finishing with a strike rate of 342.85, the fourth-highest ever for a T20 score of 100 or more. His century, reached in 32 balls, is now the joint-second fastest by an Indian in mens T20s, alongside Rishabh Pants 2018 effort, and behind only the 28-ball tons by Urvil Patel and Abhishek Sharma in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. Overall, it stands as the joint-fifth fastest century in T20 cricket history. Suryavanshis knock was an exhibition of clean, fearless hitting. The 14-year-old left-hander smashed 11 fours and 15 sixes, finishing with a strike rate of 342.85, the fourth-highest ever for a T20 score of 100 or more. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score He also played down talk of feeling pressure, despite drawing attention at a young age. There is no pressure. Because the fans have come to support, he said. And after going to the ground, the field outside the ground doesn't come to mind. Then my focus is on playing the ball. Article Source: IANS

Deepti Sharma Gets A Heros Welcome In Agra After World Cup Triumph

ODI World Cup: Ace Indian woman all-rounder Deepti Sharma received a heros welcome during a grand road show when she returned to her hometown, Agra, fresh off being named Player of the Tournament in Indias victorious ICC Womens ODI World Cup campaign. The city turned out in full strength as fans lined the streets, celebrating one of Indias finest cricketers. Deepti was also felicitated for her outstanding achievements, a moment that inspired thousands of young girls in Agra to pursue their cricketing dreams. The vibrant procession, filled with cheers and colour, highlighted Agras pride in its sporting icon and her role in Indias global rise in womens cricket. Speaking at the event, Deepti said, Coming back to Agra feels like coming back to the people who shaped my journey. This honour belongs to the city as much as it belongs to me. The love and energy here push me to keep raising the bar for India. I have only one advice for all the youngsters who are here or able to watch this or listen to me: keep doing hard work without having any doubts, as that is the only way to succeed, said Deepti Sharma while addressing the gathering. Later, in a social media post, Deepti thanked the people of Agra for the grand welcome accorded to her. This welcome Its more than a moment its a feeling Ill carry forever. Grateful for everyone back home whose love continues to inspire me. THANK YOU AGRA, she wrote on her Instagram page. I have only one advice for all the youngsters who are here or able to watch this or listen to me: keep doing hard work without having any doubts, as that is the only way to succeed, said Deepti Sharma while addressing the gathering. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score On her day of triumph, Deepti dedicated the POTS trophy to her parents and said winning the maiden World Cup title feels like a dream. Honestly, this feels like a dream because we have not been able to come out of that emotion. Feeling really nice, I could contribute this way in a World Cup final, said Deepti, who claimed scored a fighting 58 and claimed 5-39 in the final to make it possible. Article Source: IANS

Maxwell among players Punjab Kings are set to release

He was ruled out midway through IPL 2025 for the runners-up while his replacement Owen is likely to be retained

Graeme Smith: We will see a 'shift in how things work' in the cricket calendar post 2027

SA20 expansion will happen only after the 2027 men's ODI World Cup, which South Africa will co-host along with Zimbabwe and Namibia, Smith says

ZidansekandJuvanhelp Slovenia upstage the Netherlands

32-ball Ton, 297 On Board: Suryavanshi Stars As India A Dominate UAE In Asia Cup Rising Stars

Asia Cup Rising Stars: Teen sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi rewrote record books yet again, hammering a breathtaking 144 off just 42 deliveries to set up India As thumping 148-run win over UAE in their Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025 opener in Doha on Friday. His extraordinary effort powered India 'A' to 297 for 4, the joint fifth-highest total in mens T20 cricket, before the bowlers sealed a commanding victory. Suryavanshis knock was an exhibition of clean, fearless hitting. The 14-year-old left-hander smashed 11 fours and 15 sixes, finishing with a strike rate of 342.85, the fourth-highest ever for a T20 score of 100 or more. His century, reached in 32 balls, is now the joint-second fastest by an Indian in mens T20s, alongside Rishabh Pants 2018 effort, and behind only the 28-ball tons by Urvil Patel and Abhishek Sharma in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2024. Overall, it stands as the joint-fifth fastest century in T20 cricket history. At 14 years and 232 days, Suryavanshi also became the youngest man to score a century for a national representative side at senior level, surpassing Mushfiqur Rahims previous mark set in 2005, when the Bangladesh wicketkeeper was 16 years and 171 days. This was Suryavanshis second T20 century, following his 35-ball ton for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2025 a knock that made him the youngest man to score a T20 hundred and the second-fastest centurion in IPL history, behind Chris Gayles 30-ball blitz in 2011. What made Suryavanshis innings even more remarkable was the context. He was dropped off the very first ball he faced, but the reprieve only ignited his assault. He surged to a 17-ball fifty and never looked back, dismantling UAEs bowling attack with an astonishing mix of power and precision. His dominance was the backbone of a 163-run second-wicket stand off 57 balls with Naman Dhir (34), a partnership that shifted India A from a steady start to a position of total control. After Suryavanshis dismissal in the 13th over, captain Jitesh Sharma kept the momentum going, smashing 83 not out off 32 balls, ensuring India A stayed on course for a towering total. At one point, they appeared poised to become just the fifth team in mens T20s to breach the 300-run mark. However, a modest final over left them tied with Indias 2024 total of 297 against Bangladesh, still one of the highest ever recorded. Only Barodas 349 in the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has bettered it in Indian cricket. Chasing a monumental 298, the UAE were never in the contest. Their innings lacked momentum, with only Sohaib Khan offering resistance through a gritty 63 off 41 balls. India A maintained control throughout, with Gurjapneet Singh leading the attack with figures of 3 for 18. UAE eventually reached 149 for 7, well short of threatening India As mammoth total. However, a modest final over left them tied with Indias 2024 total of 297 against Bangladesh, still one of the highest ever recorded. Only Barodas 349 in the 2024 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy has bettered it in Indian cricket. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score India A 297/4 in 20 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 144, Jitesh Sharma 83; Aayan Afzal Khan 1-42, Muhammad Arfan 1-57) beat UAE A 149/7 in 20 overs (Shoaib Khan 63, Muhammad Arfan 26; Gurpanjeet Singh 2-18, Harsh Dubey 2/-2) by 148 runs Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026 Retentions: Maxwell Likely To Be Released, Mayank Could Be Retained As Deadline Day Nears

Indian Premier League: With less than 24 hours left for the ten participating teams to finalise their retention plans for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 and showcase the players whom they are going to bid goodbye. With tons of frenzy happening on the discussion tables of all ten teams, it is understood that the larger focus will be on fine-tuning squads rather than pressing the reset button. Multiple sources have told IANS that Punjab Kings could let go of Glenn Maxwell, Aaron Hardie, and Kyle Jamieson, who had come in as a replacement for injured Lockie Ferguson in the mid-way of IPL 2025, where the side finished as runners-up. Mitch Owen, who had come into the PBKS set-up as an injury replacement for Maxwell, is likely to be retained. On the other side, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) have decided to retain young Indian fast bowler Mayank Yadav, who has played only six games in the 2024 and 2025 seasons due to injury issues. Mayank had been retained by LSG for INR 11 crore, but played only two games this year due to a back injury, which resurfaced and needed surgical intervention in New Zealand. Mayank has been training and started to bowl at the BCCI CoE facility in Bengaluru, where he has been undergoing rehab for a long time. It is expected that he will be back to full-fledged bowling either in the last week of December or the first week of January, which means clouds of uncertainty over his IPL 2026 availability have been cleared, said a source familiar with the matter to IANS. At the same time, this news agency also understands that the likes of Ravi Bishnoi, David Miller, and Shamar Joseph could be released into the auction pool. Three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) could release Venkatesh Iyer, with a possibility that the franchise may try to buy him back in the mini action to be held in Abu Dhabi on either December 15 or 16. In terms of last-minute trades, IANS understands that the Rajasthan Royals are in definitive talks with KKR over a possible trade of Nitish Rana for a one-way, all clash deal. It remains to be seen which way the trade involving Rana, who was a part of KKR from 2018 to 2024, eventually goes. KKR could also let go of the South Africa duo of Quinton de Kock and Anrich Nortje, while a possibility of retaining Ajinkya Rahane looms. KKR was also in talks with the Delhi Capitals for a potential trade of KL Rahul, but at the time of publishing, no definitive word had emerged on it. In terms of last-minute trades, IANS understands that the Rajasthan Royals are in definitive talks with KKR over a possible trade of Nitish Rana for a one-way, all clash deal. It remains to be seen which way the trade involving Rana, who was a part of KKR from 2018 to 2024, eventually goes. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru could bid goodbye to the likes of Liam Livingstone, Blessing Muzarabani, Yash Dayal, and Rasikh Dar. Five-time winners Chennai Super Kings, who have been in the news of late for a mega trade of Sanju Samson in exchange for letting go of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, may say goodbye to Devon Conway, Rachin Ravindra, Rahul Tripathi, Deepak Hooda, Vijay Shankar, and Jamie Overton. Article Source: IANS

1st Test: These Questions Are Not Mine, Says Jasprit Bumrah On Workload Debate After Five-wicket Masterclass

Asia Cup T20Is: Jasprit Bumrah delivered a firm message after dismantling South Africa with a superb 5-27 on the first day of the first Test at Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Friday he is not interested in answering questions about workload management. The India spearhead, whose commitment had been debated after he missed the Sydney Tests final day due to a back spasm and was rested for two Tests in England, made it clear that he focuses only on performing and looking after his body. At the post-match press conference, Bumrah dismissed the chatter with characteristic composure. I try to give my best in whichever format I play. These questions are not my questions; I will not answer them. I try to play as much as I can. I try to take care of my body, he said. Bumrah has been on an intense playing schedule straight from the England Tests to the Asia Cup T20Is, then the West Indies Tests, followed by the Australia T20Is. The only breather came during the ODI leg in Australia, where he was rested. Despite the heavy workload, Bumrah said his focus remains unchanged. I try to give my best in each and every format Rest, question-answer sessions whoever wants to play, they can play. I'm happy as far as I'm able to contribute and try to learn new things. On a dry surface where India fielded four spinners in a home Test for the first time since 2012, it was Bumrah who overshadowed everyone, triggering South Africas collapse from a promising start to a meagre 159 all out in 55 overs. Even with conditions seemingly designed for spin, Bumrahs incisiveness stood out. Whenever you play in India, it is known that spinners will pick up a lot of wickets. So whenever you're able to make an impact with limited spells It always feels good. I'm very happy with the performance. The job is still left in the Test match. South Africas batting coach Ashwell Prince pointed to the nature of Test cricket, saying conditions will always vary. We went to South Africa, and in five sessions, the Test match was over. So it's never a simple answer that this is how the wicket should be You must have a lot more skills in your armoury to succeed. Bumrah also gave a deep insight into reading a two-paced Eden track that offered both inconsistent bounce and reverse swing. We went to South Africa, and in five sessions, the Test match was over. So it's never a simple answer that this is how the wicket should be You must have a lot more skills in your armoury to succeed. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score He explained how he adjusted quickly after his opening over. Basically, it's the harder-ball game. When the ball is nice and hard, maybe the deviation is quicker. When I bowled the first over, everything happened the ball swung, it stayed low, it went high. One ball kicked, one went low So then you see, okay, this is the way it's shaping. As the ball became softer, it settled down. The deviation was not consistent. Article Source: IANS

1st Test: Tough To Bowl On A Slow Wicket, Says Kuldeep Yadav, Breaking Down His Day-one Plan As India Skittle Out South Africa

While Jasprit Bumrah: Kuldeep Yadav said that sticking to his stump-hitting method and drawing from recent preparation against South Africa were central to his success on a slow and demanding Eden Gardens pitch, as India bowled out the visitors for 159 on the opening day of the first Test on Friday. While Jasprit Bumrah stole the headlines with a five-wicket haul, Kuldeeps disciplined spell (2 for 36) and clever planning played an equally important role in Indias decisive grip on the contest. Speaking on JioStars post-match show Cricket Live, Kuldeep described the step-up in intensity when playing Test cricket and how his India A outing against South Africa earlier this month gave him useful insight. When you play a Test match, your intensity always goes up, and obviously, you need a lot of energy. When we played as India A, it was a good practice match against South Africa, and I bowled to Temba Bavuma there. I knew what sort of shots he plays, so I was prepared to bowl accordingly. Kuldeep said the sluggish pitch made his job as a wrist-spinner more demanding, as he had to generate his own pace to trouble the batters. Today, the wicket was very slow. As a wrist-spinner, its tough to bowl on this type of wicket because there is hardly any pace. You have to generate that pace yourself. Despite the conditions, he stuck to his approach of attacking the stumps a method he believes translates across formats. My bowling type is all about hitting the stumps; thats the most important thing in any format: ODI, T20, or Test. Cricket has changed a lot; players try reverse sweeps and sweep shots, so you dont want to miss those leg-before chances. That was my plan. That plan paid off as Kuldeep played a key role in breaking South Africas early resistance, providing control in the middle overs and striking at crucial moments. My bowling type is all about hitting the stumps; thats the most important thing in any format: ODI, T20, or Test. Cricket has changed a lot; players try reverse sweeps and sweep shots, so you dont want to miss those leg-before chances. That was my plan. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score With Mohammed Siraj (2 for 47) and Axar Patel (1 for 21) also contributing, Indias well-rounded bowling effort ensured South Africa squandered the advantage of winning the toss. Article Source: IANS

Bumrah Gave Blueprint On How Bowlers Should Bowl, Says Steyn

The South African: Legendary pacer Dale Steyn lauded Jasprit Bumrahs 5-27 performance against South Africa in the first Test, noting that Bumrah's precise bowling areas provided a blueprint for success on Eden Gardens pitch. Bumrahs carnage reduced South Africa to 159 in their first innings in just over two sessions after opting to bat first in the first Test of the series. Bumrah was the blueprint for the day in terms of how bowlers should bowl, not just because of his wickets. If you watch the areas he bowled and how he bowled, thats exactly how the South Africans should look to bowl. He hit the deck hard, didnt bowl many half-volleys, targeted the stumps, and gave away very little. Thats the blueprint if you want to be successful on this type of pitch. If you follow that, you get the rewards like he did with his five-wicket haul, Steyn said on JioStars Cricket Live. The South African veteran pacer noted that not only the lengths that Bumrah bowls but his stature also gets wickets for him. Bumrah hits you with pace 145, 140 km/h, its really quick. He doesnt give anything away and still picks up wickets. Thats his mastery. His name brings a threat. In the dressing room, the discussion among batters will be: Lets see through his spell. Lets not get out to him. Well try to take on the spinners or Siraj if hes having an off day. But every time Bumrah bowls, he manages to pick a wicket or two, and that puts the other bowlers in a position to strike as well. His name gets him wickets, not just the areas he lands the ball in, Steyn added. The 42-year-old pacer also heaped praise on Bumrahs fast bowling partner, Mohammed Siraj, who also got two wickets to support the former and wrap South Africas innings quickly. Siraj is always firing; the guy doesnt stop. Whenever his captain throws him the ball, he delivers. He bowls long spells of eight or nine overs and adapts beautifully to conditions. In England, he swung the ball brilliantly. He waited for his turn, bowled in all those Tests, and the wickets came. Many bowlers get despondent when things dont go their way, but he waited and it came good for him. In this Test, he bowled from the far end where there wasnt much movement. It wasnt going his way. He came back from the other end, got a little reverse swing, and picked up two wickets. His heart stands out the most, Steyn said. The 42-year-old pacer also heaped praise on Bumrahs fast bowling partner, Mohammed Siraj, who also got two wickets to support the former and wrap South Africas innings quickly. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score At stumps, India were 37/1, with KL Rahul unbeaten on 13 and Washington Sundar not out on 6. The hosts are still 122 runs behind. Article Source: IANS

Suryavanshi scores joint-second fastest men's T20 century by an Indian

Suryavanshi continued to smash records as he hit 144 off just 42 deliveries against UAE

1st Test: It Isn't Easy For Batters To Score Runs, Says Siraj After India Dominate Opening Day

Mohammed Siraj: India pacer Mohammed Siraj acknowledged that scoring runs isnt easy for batters after the hosts wrapped South Africas innings for 159 on the opening day of the first Test at Eden Gardens on Friday. Pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah returned with the figures of 5-27 in his 17 overs while Kuldeep Yadav and Siraj bagged two scalps apiece to topple South Africa's batting unit. Speaking after the stumps, Siraj said the new ball was moving but as soon as the ball became soft, the bounce reduced off the pitch. The new ball was coming on nicely to the bat, but when the ball went soft, the bounce became low as well. My mindset was to bowl full and at the stumps. There has been some reverse swing on offer, if you bowl stump-to-stump, you'll get options to take wickets and it isn't easy for batters to score runs. One end is fine to bat, the other end - the bounce is variable and it's tough to score, Siraj said. The 31-year-old pacer revealed what Bumrah advised him during the spell and how he applied that in use. Jassi bhai just told me that the wicket-taking option was if you bowl at the stumps, you've LBW, bowled and even catches coming to play when the line is accurate, he said. The 31-year-old pacer revealed what Bumrah advised him during the spell and how he applied that in use. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score We are in a good position having lost just one wicket. (Earlier) Markram and Rickelton put on a good stand, we did well to comeback and I think we're ahead in the match at the moment, Siraj said. Article Source: IANS

1st Test: Rahul, Washington Take India To 37/1, Trail SA By 122 Runs After Bumrah Picks 5-27

But KL Rahul: India closed the opening day of the first Test against South Africa at 37/1 in 20 overs and trail by 122 runs after Jasprit Bumrahs sharp five-wicket haul had earlier skittled the visitors for 159 in their first innings at the Eden Gardens here on Friday. Before bad light brought an early end to the proceedings in the final session, India lost opener Yashasvi Jaiswal cheaply. But KL Rahul (13 not out) and newly-established number three Washington Sundar (six not out) ensured there was no further damage before the proceedings were stopped prematurely for the day. The pair batted cautiously, adding 19 runs in an unbroken stand for the second wicket on a surface that continued to show variable Earlier, Bumrahs incisive 5-27 dismantled South Africas batting order after they had raced to 57 for no loss. The visitors lost all of their ten wickets for just 102 runs, leaving India in control at the close of day one. The crowd of around 35,000 spectators roared firmly for Bumrah through his fiery two-over burst after tea. Their anticipation was rewarded as Bumrah completed his five-wicket haul, as South Africa also recorded their second-lowest first-innings score against India and squandered the advantage of winning the toss. The post-tea session began with Bumrah getting one to jag back in and rattle Simon Harmers off-stump. Three balls later, Bumrah produced a searing inswinging yorker to trap Keshav Maharaj lbw for a duck, with Tristan Stubbs left seeing the carnage unfold by being unbeaten on 15. On a challenging two-paced pitch with uneven bounce, Jaiswal took 15 balls to get off the mark -- a drive off Marco Jansen through long-off, giving him the boundary. After two more boundaries, Jaiswals stay ended on 12 when he chopped onto his stumps off Jansen. Rahul, meanwhile, remained watchful, scoring just one run off his first 14 deliveries before leaning forward into a drive off Wiaan Mulder. Sundar, the new number three batter, survived a testing spell early on and grew more assured as the session progressed. Though Jansen, Mulder, and Corbin Bosch kept things tight with the new ball, while spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer found turn, Rahul and Washington maintained their discipline nicely. Bad light eventually forced play to end at 4:35 pm, with Bumrah being the headline of the day through his 16th five-wicket-haul spell, giving India control on the opening day of the contest. Sundar, the new number three batter, survived a testing spell early on and grew more assured as the session progressed. Though Jansen, Mulder, and Corbin Bosch kept things tight with the new ball, while spinners Keshav Maharaj and Simon Harmer found turn, Rahul and Washington maintained their discipline nicely. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score South Africa 159 all out in 55 overs (Aiden Markram 31, Ryan Rickelton 23; Jasprit Bumrah 5-27, Kuldeep Yadav 2-36) lead India 37/1 in 20 overs (KL Rahul 13 not out, Yashasvi Jaiswal 12; Marco Jansen 1-11) by 122 runs Article Source: IANS

PCB Shortlists Six Cities For Two New PSL Franchises

The Pakistan Cricket Board: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed six potential cities for bidders interested in acquiring the rights to own two new teams in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) for the upcoming decade. In a recent meeting between PSL CEO Salman Naseer and current franchise representatives, the PCB announced that bidders would be able to select from Hyderabad, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Muzaffarabad, Gilgit, and Rawalpindi. The process to acquire ownership of the new teams will begin with the issuance of tenders in the coming days, with the sale expected to be concluded by next month. Following the conclusion of this exercise, renewal offer letters reflecting the new franchise fees for the next 10 years have been formally shared with all compliant PSL Franchises requesting them to revert with their decision within the stipulated timeline. To ensure full transparency and facilitate a clear understanding of the valuations, the PCB has also arranged collective and individual meetings between franchise representatives and the independent valuer (EY MENA). These sessions will allow the franchises to review the valuation methodology and discuss any queries, the PCB said in a statement. The valuation reports for two new PSL Franchise Teams have also been received by the PCB and the tender process for their sale will be formally initiated shortly, it added. To ensure full transparency and facilitate a clear understanding of the valuations, the PCB has also arranged collective and individual meetings between franchise representatives and the independent valuer (EY MENA). These sessions will allow the franchises to review the valuation methodology and discuss any queries, the PCB said in a statement. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Despite these developments, the meeting did not finalise the schedule for the 11th edition of the PSL, which is expected to clash once again with the Indian Premier League (IPL), as both leagues are likely to be held between March and May next year. This scheduling conflict may raise concerns for players and teams as they balance participation in both leagues. Article Source: IANS

Ollie Pope puts selection talk to bed with warm-up century

No. 3 inks himself in for first Test while Stokes also in runs after failures for Root, Brook

Trent Rockets confirm Moores appointment

Nottinghamshire head coach had been favourite to succeed Andy Flower in role

IPL 2026: Don't Think Rahul Will Leave As He Is Delhi Capitals' Backbone, Says Suresh Raina

Indian Premier League: Former India cricketer Suresh Raina believes KL Rahul is the backbone of Delhi Capitals, making it almost unthinkable for the franchise to release him ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 retention deadline. Rahul, who moved to Delhi ahead of IPL 2025, has been one of the leagues standout performers. His 539 runs in 13 innings at a strike rate close to 150featuring a century and three fiftiesmade him the fastest batter to reach 5,000 IPL runs. Given that he also doubles up as a wicketkeeper, Raina argued that Rahul offers too much value for Delhi to even consider releasing him. He got a good price in the last auction and performed really well, Raina said. As a batter in T20 cricket, he gives you both a solid batter and a wicketkeeper. I dont think Rahul will leave Delhi; hes the backbone of the team. Even Axar has played really well in T20Is and ODIs over the last few years. So, I think he should definitely lead the team. The big question is whether they will retain Faf du Plessis or not. While Delhis retention choices may feel straightforward, Royal Challengers Bengaluru have a few tough calls to make, according to JioStar expert Irfan Pathan. Speaking on Liam Livingstone, Pathan said: RCB bought Liam Livingstone for a hefty price, but he scored only 112 runs and played at a strike rate of 133. His strike rate should have been higher. His performance of 112 runs in 10 matches doesnt justify such a big price. He also suggested that RCB may consider releasing Rasikh Salam, given financial constraints rather than performance issues. Bowler Rasikh Salam does have a place in this team, but his price is 6 crores. So, can RCB put Rasikh Salam back in the auction and try to take him again for a lower price? Because such a player is needed in the middle overs. Raina, however, believes RCB are largely settled heading into 2026. RCBs bowling unit played really well last season, and even the batters did well. It was good to see a new IPL winner. The way Virat and Rajat Patidar have shaped the atmosphere of the team is good to see. They wont make many changes they will go with more or less the same squad. So, I think RCB is sorted. They can try to get a spinner, maybe someone who can play alongside Krunal Pandya. Sunrisers Hyderabad, who made a strong start last season but lost steam midway, find themselves evaluating their middle order and bowling attack. Raina weighed in on their batting balance: SRH need a sensible middle-order batter. Ishan Kishan did very well initially; he made a few runs in the first two matches and has a different, aggressive batting approach. Then they have players like Heinrich Klaasen. I think Nitish Kumar Reddy will have to improve his performance because the team and the owners are banking on him a lot. Sunrisers Hyderabad, who made a strong start last season but lost steam midway, find themselves evaluating their middle order and bowling attack. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score The big problem for SRH is their bowling attack. Its a very good batting wicket in Hyderabad, so SRH need to find good bowlers. Some potential big releases are Mohammed Shami, Abhinav Manohar, and Rahul Chahar as well. Theyll be on the hunt for fast bowlers with variations in the mini-auction. They will need such bowlers on that track because its a pure batting pitch. Article Source: IANS

UP CM Yogi Adityanath Meets DSP-cum-cricketer Deepti Sharma

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi: Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Friday, met the state's World Cup winning Women's Cricket Team player Deepti Sharma and also led a Cabinet meeting which took 20 key decisions, including one on easing the registration process for old age pension, an official said. Sharma, who is serving as Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) in the state, was praised by Chief Minister Adityanath for her good performance in the World Cricket final and winning the Player of the Tournament award. Deepti has done the Uttar Pradesh Police proud at the world stage, CM Adityanath had tweeted soon after the women's cricket team lifted the World Cup on November 2. Cricketer Deepti Sharma was earlier appointed as DSP in January this year under the sports quota as part of Chief Minister Adityanath's Skilled Athlete Scheme. During the Cabinet meeting held at the CM residence on Friday, CM Adityanath led his Ministers in congratulating the women's cricket team for winning the World Cup. The Cabinet also condemned the fatal Delhi blast on November 10. A key decision taken at the meeting relates to saving the elderly the trouble of running around for pension. The Cabinet decided that the social welfare department will deploy call-centre executives to contact and seek consent of the beneficiary and fill their forms online through common service centres. The forms will be verified using family IDs before the release of their pension, saving the elderly to run around to complete formalities. As a pilot project, the scheme will be tried in five districts, including Ghaziabad, Gorakhpur, Hardoi, Kannauj and Lalitpur, an official said. In the existing system, an online application by an elderly person seeking pension needs the verification by the Sub-Divisional Magistrate and village Block Development Officer before an approval from the District Magistrate-led Committee. An official said the proposed new system will speed up the entire process. The scheme will benefit all elderly over the age of 60 with an annual income of Rs 56,460 or less in urban areas and Rs 46,080 or less in rural areas. An official said the proposed new system will speed up the entire process. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Other Cabinet decisions included approval for a private university in Shahjahanpur and beneficial rate revision for cane procurement. Article Source: IANS

Rocchiccioli holds his nerve to clinch one-wicket thriller for Western Australia

The offspinner had claimed five wickets then forged the match-winning stand with No. 11 Cameron Gannon after a WA collapse

Bangladesh Decimate Ireland By An Innings And 47 Runs In Sylhet

Mahmudul Hasan Joy: Bangladesh wrapped up an innings-and-47-run victory over Ireland inside four days in Sylhet, driven by Hasan Murads four-wicket haul and dominant centuries from Mahmudul Hasan Joy and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto. Irelands only real positive was stretching the match until 45 minutes after lunch on day four, despite having lost half their side the previous evening. Andy McBrine offered resistance with a determined half-century, putting on 66 for the seventh wicket with captain Andy Balbirnie, who batted at No. 8 due to a finger injury. Bangladesh struck quickly after lunch when Nahid Rana dismissed McBrine with the second ball of the session. A short delivery tempted McBrine into a pull, only for Murad to take the catch at midwicket. McBrine departed for 52 off 106 balls, hitting five fours. Barry McCarthy and Jordan Neill briefly prolonged Irelands hopes with a 54-run stand for the ninth wicket. Neill contributed 36 with seven boundaries, while McCarthy, the final wicket to fall, made 25 with a six and two fours. The morning session centred around DRS drama, with several reviews favouring Ireland. Matthew Humphreys overturned a decision in the opening over before Taijul Islam removed him soon after with a top-edged catch at backward square. McBrine survived two tight reviews in one over from Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Balbirnie also had some fortune before Murad trapped him lbw for 38 a decision that stayed with the umpires call as the ball was shown clipping leg stump. McBrine reached his fifty shortly before lunch, capping a strong session for Ireland. The morning session centred around DRS drama, with several reviews favouring Ireland. Matthew Humphreys overturned a decision in the opening over before Taijul Islam removed him soon after with a top-edged catch at backward square. McBrine survived two tight reviews in one over from Mehidy Hasan Miraz, and Balbirnie also had some fortune before Murad trapped him lbw for 38 a decision that stayed with the umpires call as the ball was shown clipping leg stump. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Brief Scores: Bangladesh 587 for 8 dec (Mahmudul Hasan Joy 171, Najmul Hossain Shanto 100, Matthew Humphreys 5-170) beat Ireland 286 and 254 (Andy McBrine 52, Paul Stirling 43, Hasan Murad 4-60, Taijul Islam 3-84) by an innings and 47 runs. Article Source: IANS

Afridi out with illness, Agha-led Pakistan field against Sri Lanka

Abrar Ahmed and Mohammad Wasim slot into Pakistan's XI, while Pramod Madushan bolsters Sri Lanka's bowling attack

Lanning's unbeaten 90 sets up Melbourne Stars' victory

The former Australia captain found her stride after a tricky start and Scorchers fell short in a rain-shortened chase

SRH set to trade Mohammed Shami to LSG

The trade is likely to be an all-cash deal worth INR 10 crore

1st Test: Bumrah Claims Fifer As India Bowl Out SA For 159

Jasprit Bumrah: Fast-bowling spearhead Jasprit Bumrah was at his devastating best to claim figures of 5-27 as India bowled out South Africa for just 159 on day one of the first Test at Eden Gardens on Friday. South Africa, who won the toss and elected to bat on a two-paced pitch offering variable bounce, looked well placed for a big score at 57/0 in the 11th over. But once Bumrah removed the openers in quick succession, their innings collapsed dramatically. The visitors lost all ten wickets for just 102 runs, with their middle order unable to withstand the relentless pressure, as Bumrah picked his 16th five-wicket haul in Tests. Apart from Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj and Kuldeep Yadav took two wickets each, while Axar Patel had a scalp to his name. The crowd of around 35,000 spectators roared firmly for Bumrah through his fiery two-over burst after tea. Their anticipation was rewarded as Bumrah completed his five-wicket haul, as South Africa also recorded their second-lowest first-innings score against India and squandered the advantage of winning the toss. The post-tea session began with Bumrah getting one to jag back in and rattle Simon Harmers off-stump. Three balls later, Bumrah produced a searing inswinging yorker to trap Keshav Maharaj lbw for a duck, with Tristan Stubbs left seeing the carnage unfold by being unbeaten on 15. Previously, after South Africa elected to bat first, Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram negotiated the early overs with composure to bring up the fifty of the opening stand - the first such instance for the Proteas in India after 17 innings. Rickelton, fluent from the outset, punished a wayward Siraj for providing width by taking three boundaries off him. Markram, who got off the mark after facing 22 balls, settled in after a watchful beginning by hitting fours through gorgeous back foot and front foot shots before leaving everyone dazed with his shimmy down the pitch to dispatch Axar for six over wide long-on. Bumrah, who had produced a few balls that ranged from climbing sharply to staying a touch low, got India back in the game with his double strike getting a length ball to beat Rickeltons outside edge and rattle his off stump. He then produced a rising delivery from short of length that forced Markram to play at it and the shoulder edge of the bat was caught by a diving Rishabh Pant. South Africas progress was further dented when Kuldeep trapped Temba Bavuma with a clever leg-slip ploy, and Dhruv Jurel caught the inside edge to send the Proteas skipper for just three, as South Africa slipped from 57/0 to 71/3. From there, Mulder and de Zorzi, showed grit against the spinners till lunch. After the lunch, Kuldeep and Bumrah set the tone immediately for India by maintaining accuracy. That relentlessness was rewarded when Wiaan Mulders attempt to reverse-sweep Kuldeep ended in him being trapped plumb lbw, with the all-rounder also burning a review. Bumrahs inswinger kept low and came in off the team from round the wicket to trap Tony de Zorzi lbw for 24. Though Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne tried stabilizing South Africas innings Siraj found his rhythm with some reverse swing, and struck twice in the 45th over to remove Verreynne and Marco Jansen. While Verreynne was slow to bring his bat down and was trapped lbw by a nip-backer from Siraj, the pacer got one to tail in from length and castle Marco Jansen through the gate for a three-ball duck. Axar joined the wicket-taking party just before the tea break by trapping Corbin Bosch lbw with a straight delivery to leave India happy and South Africa in dire straits. While Verreynne was slow to bring his bat down and was trapped lbw by a nip-backer from Siraj, the pacer got one to tail in from length and castle Marco Jansen through the gate for a three-ball duck. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 159 in 55 overs (Aiden Markram 31, Ryan Rickelton 23; Jasprit Bumrah 5-27, Kuldeep Yadav 2-36) against India Article Source: IANS

1st Test: Bowlers Continue To Make Merry As India Reduce SA To 154/8 At Tea

With Tristan Stubbs: Indias bowlers tightened their grip on the opening Test as they reduced South Africa to 154/8 in 52 overs at tea on day ones play at the Eden Gardens on Friday. After a shared morning session, India dominated the post-lunch passage of play, claiming five wickets while conceding just 49 runs in 25 overs. Apart from Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav adding one more scalp each to their wicket-taking tally, Mohammed Siraj found his rhythm to strike twice, while Axar Patel did well to get a wicket at the stroke of tea. With Tristan Stubbs still unbeaten on 15, India will sense that they can wrap up South Africas innings quickly in the post-tea session and get to have a crack with the bat till stumps arrives. Kuldeep and Bumrah set the tone immediately for India after the lunch interval by maintaining relentless accuracy. That relentlessness was rewarded when Wiaan Mulders attempt to reverse-sweep Kuldeep ended in him being trapped plumb lbw, with the all-rounder also burning a review. Bumrahs inswinger kept low and came in off the team from round the wicket to trap Tony de Zorzi lbw for 24. Though Stubbs and Kyle Verreynne tried stabilising South Africas innings Siraj found his rhythm with some reverse swing and struck twice in the 45th over to remove Verreynne and Marco Jansen. Kuldeep and Bumrah set the tone immediately for India after the lunch interval by maintaining relentless accuracy. That relentlessness was rewarded when Wiaan Mulders attempt to reverse-sweep Kuldeep ended in him being trapped plumb lbw, with the all-rounder also burning a review. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 154/8 in 52 overs (Aiden Markram 31, Ryan Rickelton 23; Jasprit Bumrah 3-23, Kuldeep Yadav 2-36) against India Article Source: IANS

Southee returns to KKR as bowling coach for IPL 2026

Tim Southee replaces Bharat Arun, who has moved to LSG ahead of the upcoming season

IPL 2026: KKR Rope In NZ Great Tim Southee As Bowling Coach

Kolkata Knight Riders: Three-time IPL winners Kolkata Knight Riders on Friday announced the appointment of New Zealand fast bowling great Tim Southee as their new bowling coach ahead of the 2026 season. Southee is a familiar face to the KKR setup, having represented the franchise in the IPL in 2021, 2022 and 2023 seasons. He steps into the role at KKR after his predecessor Bharat Arun joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), and will work alongside head coach Abhishek Nayar, mentor Dwayne Bravo and newly-appointed assistant coach Shane Watson. KKR has always felt like home to me, and its an honour to return in this new role. The franchise has an incredible culture, passionate fans, and a great group of players. I look forward to working closely with the bowlers and helping the team achieve success in IPL 2026, said Southee in a statement by the franchise. Southee, regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers of his generation, was a mainstay in the New Zealand set-up for nearly 15 years. With 107 Test appearances, 150 ODIs and 120 T20Is, Southee has taken more than 700 wickets across all three international formats. Renowned for his swing and accuracy, Southee also captained New Zealand in multiple formats and played key roles in their 2019 Mens ODI World Cup runners-up finish and the 2021 World Test Championship triumph, before retiring from international cricket in December last year. Southee, regarded as one of the finest fast bowlers of his generation, was a mainstay in the New Zealand set-up for nearly 15 years. With 107 Test appearances, 150 ODIs and 120 T20Is, Southee has taken more than 700 wickets across all three international formats. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Tims vast experience and technical expertise will be instrumental in shaping our bowling unit. His leadership qualities and calm approach make him an ideal mentor for our young bowlers, said Venky Mysore, KKR CEO. Article Source: IANS

India enter bold new era with four-spinner strategy for home Tests

The question was whether India would pick Kuldeep Yadav or a spin-bowling allrounder. They found a way to accommodate both

'I Love That': Pieterson Welcomes Kuldeep's Inclusion In Indias XI For Kolkata Test

South Africa Tests: Former England batter Kevin Pietersen backed spinner Kuldeep Yadav's inclusion in India's playing 11 for the first Test against South Africa at the Eden Gardens on Friday. Kuldeep, who is playing his fourth Test of the year, kept his place in the team for the series opener in Kolkata. He was among veteran all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, Washington Sundar and Axar Patel to bolster the spin attack. I love that Kuldeep is playing Tests, Pietersen wrote on X. Kuldeep was also part of India's side in the two-match home Test series against the West Indies last month. The left-arm wrist-spinner scalped 12 wickets across four innings of the series. Earlier this month, Kuldeep was released from India's T20I squad against Australia after three games to prepare for South Africa Tests. He was also named in India A squad for their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bengaluru. He on;y bagged one wicket in the match that the hosts lost by five wickets. Kuldeep, who was part of India's squad for the historic five-match Test series against England earlier this year, was overlooked on the tour. Ravindra Jadeja was India's frontline spinner on the tour, while Washington Sundar supported the senior pro to share the load. Earlier this month, Kuldeep was released from India's T20I squad against Australia after three games to prepare for South Africa Tests. He was also named in India A squad for their second unofficial Test against South Africa A in Bengaluru. He on;y bagged one wicket in the match that the hosts lost by five wickets. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Coming to the match, wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant made his return to international cricket after recovering from a toe injury that he sustained in the fourth Test against England in the fourth Test in Manchester. All-rounder Axar Patel also returned to the playing XI as India fielded four spinners for the opening contest. Article Source: IANS

Gautam Gambhir Interacts With Young Footballers In Kolkata

World Test Championship Final: Former cricketer and current head coach of the Indian national cricket team Gautam Gambhir interacted with young football players at ITC Sonar in Kolkata ahead of Childrens Day. Gambhir engaged with the young players and motivated them to work hard, avoid shortcuts, and not let failures discourage them. Speaking about the importance of hard work, he emphasised that for any player to do well, they must first have a love for the sport. Highlighting the value of training, he said, If you have trained properly and practised well, mistakes dont matter. You should learn from your mistakes. Never let them pull you down; even the best players make mistakes. During the interaction, students asked Gambhir how they could balance their studies and sports. To this, he responded, Studies and football should go hand in hand. You will have to compromise on your time spent watching TV or using your phone. The better you study, the better you will be able to grasp things. Asked about the qualities required to be a good coach, Gambhir added, Honesty is the most important quality for a coach. You should treat all players equally, and that should remain consistent across all matches. It is important to create equal opportunities for every player. Currently, Gambhir is with Team India in Kolkata as the Shubhman Gill-led side is in action in the first Test against the reigning World Test Championship winners South Africa at the Eden Gardens. Asked about the qualities required to be a good coach, Gambhir added, Honesty is the most important quality for a coach. You should treat all players equally, and that should remain consistent across all matches. It is important to create equal opportunities for every player. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score For India, Rishabh Pant and Axar Patel returned to the playing XI while Corbin Bosch replaced speedster Kagiso Rabada, who sustained a rib injury, in the visiting side. Article Source: IANS

Kagiso Rabada out of first Test against India after suffering rib injury

Corbin Bosch replaced Kagiso Rabada in the South Africa XI, completing the seam trio alongside Marco Jansen and Wiaan Mulder

1st Test: Bumrah, Kuldeep Pick Scalps For India As South Africa Reach 105/3 At Lunch

South Africa: Jasprit Bumrah and Kuldeep Yadav picked three wickets collectively for India to keep South Africa in check as the visitors reached 105/3 in 27 overs at lunch on the first day of the opening Test at the Eden Gardens on Friday. Bumrah provided the early breakthroughs by removing the opening pair, while Kuldeep added to the pressure by dismissing skipper Temba Bavuma shortly after the drinks interval. At 71/3, the Proteas looked vulnerable, but Tony de Zorzi (15 not out) and Wiaan Mulder (22 not out) steadied the innings with a composed 34-run stand off 66 balls and ensured no further damage before the lunch break came. Electing to bat first, Ryan Rickelton and Aiden Markram negotiated the early overs with composure to bring up a 50-run stand for South Africa - their first such instance in India after 17 innings. Rickelton, fluent from the outset, punished a wayward Mohammed Siraj for providing width by taking three boundaries off him. Markram, who got off the mark after facing 22 balls, settled in after a watchful beginning by hitting fours through gorgeous back foot and front foot shots before leaving everyone dazed with his shimmy down the pitch to dispatch Axar Patel for six over wide long-on. Bumrah, who had produced a few balls that ranged from climbing sharply to staying a touch low, got India back in the game with his double strike getting a length ball to beat Rickeltons outside edge and rattle his off stump. He then produced a rising delivery from short of length that forced Markram to play at it and the shoulder edge of the bat was caught by a diving Rishabh Pant. South Africas progress was further dented when Kuldeep trapped Temba Bavuma with a clever leg-slip ploy, and Dhruv Jurel caught his inside edge to send the Proteas skipper for just three, as South Africa slipped from 57/0 to 71/3. Bumrah, who had produced a few balls that ranged from climbing sharply to staying a touch low, got India back in the game with his double strike getting a length ball to beat Rickeltons outside edge and rattle his off stump. He then produced a rising delivery from short of length that forced Markram to play at it and the shoulder edge of the bat was caught by a diving Rishabh Pant. Also Read: LIVE Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 105/3 in 27 overs (Aiden Markram 31, Ryan Rickelton 23; Jasprit Bumrah 2-9, Kuldeep Yadav 1-24) against India . Article Source: IANS