It Was Just Playing The Situation: Renshaw On Australias Fightback Against South Africa
South Africa: Australia batter Matt Renshaw said his unbeaten knock against South Africa was about assessing the match situation and maintaining positive intent as he helped the visitors recover from a top-order collapse on the opening day of the first Test at Kingsmead. Renshaw remained unbeaten on 46 as Australia reached 187/6 before bad light and rain brought an early end to play on Friday. He shared an unbroken 63-run stand with captain Pat Cummins, who was batting on 33, after South Africa reduced the visitors to 124/6. It was just playing the situation as much as I could and having, yeah, I speak about trying to have good intent against both spin and pace, and that gets my body moving the way I want it to, Renshaw said as quoted by Cricinfo. The left-hander said his experience of batting in the middle order in one-day cricket had helped him prepare for the role in the Test side, allowing him to adapt to different match situations. I think in the one day as batting in that middle order shows, Ive done it in the past in the middle order, and it shows that I can be pretty versatile. I think the thinking was just in that middle order, continuing on from a successful one day tour, he said. Renshaw also explained how he prepared for the possibility of batting at No. 5, a position that can require a player to wait for several hours before getting an opportunity at the crease. He said he went to the nets during the lunch break and faced around 20 balls to get his eyes accustomed to the light and prepare his body for batting. I think for me, batting at five, the challenge is sitting around for a while and not batting. So I went and faced probably 20 balls in the nets at lunch when I knew I was going straight in, Renshaw said. Australia had elected to bat but lost Travis Head and Nic Maddinson early before Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith attempted to rebuild the innings. Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen then struck at regular intervals to leave the visitors in trouble. I think for me, batting at five, the challenge is sitting around for a while and not batting. So I went and faced probably 20 balls in the nets at lunch when I knew I was going straight in, Renshaw said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
People Underrate Shai Hope A Lot, Has Special Skill In Shutting Out Noise: Roston Chase
JSCA International Stadium: West Indies off-spin bowling all-rounder Roston Chase believes skipper Shai Hope does not get enough credit for evolving his batting and commended him for having the special skill of shutting out the noise after his unbeaten century inspired the visitors to a record chase against India in the second T20I on Friday night. An in-form Hope hammered an unbeaten 102 off just 45 balls as the West Indies chased down India's imposing 249/5 with six wickets in hand to level the five match series 1-1 at the JSCA International Stadium. Hope had previously led the West Indies chase down 353 by hitting an unbeaten 162 in the third ODI against India in New Chandigarh last week. I think about Shai Hope, people underrate him a lot. But Shai Hope is a guy that he can blank out a lot of noise and just focus on what he has to do and I think that's his special skill. Because when everything seems to be going wrong, he's still out there giving his best and performing for the team, Chase said to reporters at the conclusion of the game. He also dismissed the criticism that Hope bats too slowly or plays for personal milestones and described him as an exemplary professional who works tirelessly behind the scenes. Everyone knows he's great in 50-over cricket and still sometimes people don't give him the credit. They always say he either bats too slow or he bats for himself. He puts in the hard work and he's the ultimate professional. He tries to tick every box and do the right things all the time. He also revealed about the efforts Hope makes in the gym, which helped transform from a slow starter into a power-hitter. He's done a lot of gym work to make himself stronger in terms of hitting the ball over the ropes. He also practises a lot of range hitting to get in those strong positions. Speaking about the mammoth 120-run partnership between Hope and Sherfane Rutherford (84 off 37 balls), Chase said, To chase 250 in any conditions, any ball in attack, I think that was a tremendous effort. I think it's a record chase for us. It was just a great feeling and it came out in the celebration. On his own bowling, which saw him pick 3-24, with his scalps being Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Shivam Dube, Chase revealed that he changed his tactic after Sanju Samson smashed his first delivery for four. I told myself probably the wicket is a bit too good to be using the wicket consistently. So I thought I had to mix up in terms of using the wicket and then going for the yorkers as well. On his own bowling, which saw him pick 3-24, with his scalps being Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan and Shivam Dube, Chase revealed that he changed his tactic after Sanju Samson smashed his first delivery for four. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Dinesh Karthik weighs in on India's playing XI after 2nd T20I loss against the West Indies
Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik had a lot to say about the Men in Blues team composition as the side faced a loss against the West Indies in the second T20I of the ongoing series....
Rahane bats against impact player rule, calls it of 'no use'
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 10 (IANS) Former India cricketer and IPL captain Ajinkya Rahane hit out at the contentious impact player rule in the Indian Premier League, advocating for the rule to be taken out. Rahane joined the chorus of several cricketers criticising the rule for reducing the growth of all-rounders in Indian cricket, calling it of no use. I think it should be taken out, Rahane, who has led Kolkata Knight Riders and Rajasthan Royals in the league, told Cricbuzz. I remember last year, before the IPL captains' meeting, most of the captains said they don't want the impact player rule. And I think the guidelines or the rules, they have it till 2027. So we don't know if this year they will take it out or after this year (when) the big auction is coming up, in that they will take it out. But ideally, I feel there is no point or use in having an impact rule, he added. The rule has also been hampering the growth of all-rounders in Indian cricket as franchises tend to replace batters with bowlers and vice-versa to get the best possible result with the bat or the ball. Hardik Pandya's absence from the Indian team has often found the Indian team searching for cover-ups, and although Shivam Dube and Nitish Reddy have turned up, they are still far from Hardik's capabilities. Moreover, there seem to be not many all-rounders in the pipeline, especially the fast-bowling all-rounders, which has been a rarity now in Indian cricket. All-rounders are going out of the game, especially in the IPL. And I am a firm believer that you've got to develop your all-rounders. From the Indian team's point of view, all-rounders are really important. So the impact player rule should be taken out. See, why I feel we should take it out is because last year, I don't want to take any team's name, but a few teams were probably at 90/7, 100/7, and they ended up getting 200 because of that one impact (rule), one extra batter with that. So, I feel (we should) give some advantage to bowlers, and also all-rounders should be involved in the games thoroughly. They should take it out, he added.
'I Am Taking The Blame On Myself': Sanju Samson Opens Up After Ranchi Knock vs West Indies
On the tours of Ireland and England, Samson failed to make an impact. With the rise of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, the opener from Kerala had one extra challenge to face. However, he answered his critics in style in Ranchi on Friday, scoring an 82 off 41 balls.
Tickets For Historic Big Bash League Game To Be Hosted In Chennai Go On Sale
Cricket Australia Executive General Manager: Tickets for the historic Big Bash League (BBL) season 16 opener between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers at the MA Chidambaram Stadium are now available on sale from Saturday. An initial allocation of first-release tickets is available on the District by Zomato website in India, with more to follow in the coming days. In addition to this, four or 12-day international travel packages, including match tickets and Big Bash League merchandise, are also on sale and have been specially designed by the Cricket Australia Travel Office (CATO). The match to be played on December 12 is set to become the most-watched game in the history of Australian domestic cricket as the Big Bash League is preparing to deliver a big spectacle to fans in a stadium that has hosted more than its share of iconic cricketing moments. A packed stadium is what makes the BBL what it is, and we cant wait to bring a piece of the Big Bash to Chennai, offering fans a one-of-a-kind experience with some of the biggest names in sport. With fireworks from the bat, drama on the field and world-class entertainment, this is set to be a memorable day out for anyone wanting to experience a BBL match, said Alistair Dobson, Cricket Australia Executive General Manager Big Bash Leagues, in a statement on Saturday. It was back in May this year that a five-member Cricket Australia delegation arrived in Chennai for the final home game of Chennai Super Kings in IPL 2026 against Sunrisers Hyderabad, with BCCI President Mithun Manhas joining them for the match. Cricket Australia then approached the BCCI to host the BBL season 16 opener in Chennai, which was accepted. The Perth Scorchers are the reigning BBL champions having clinched a record-breaking sixth title in the competitions history. With incredible early demand for these matches and the local cricket-loving community, it is expected that the stadium will be stretched to capacity on December 12, with a huge welcome anticipated for the visiting fans. We encourage Aussie fans to come and experience this unique BBL match in a special place it truly is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for them to not only be part of Big Bash League history but to discover a new city, added Dobson. With incredible early demand for these matches and the local cricket-loving community, it is expected that the stadium will be stretched to capacity on December 12, with a huge welcome anticipated for the visiting fans. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India, West Indies brace for batting onslaught in Indore
The third T20 International between India and West Indies in Indore is anticipated to be another high-scoring affair, with the Holkar Stadium's flat pitch and short boundaries favouring batters, putting immense pressure on bowlers after a 501-run fest in the previous match.
2nd T20I: India Pressed Panic Button Way Too Early, Says Varun Aaron On Bowling Errors Against WI
Varun Aaron: Former India cricketer Varun Aaron criticised Indias bowling strategy after the West Indies chased down a target of 250 in the second T20I in Ranchi, saying that the hosts abandoned disciplined lengths too soon as Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford took control of the contest with an aggressive partnership. The way Shai Hope and Rutherford played was brilliant. It was almost a Batman-and-Robin kind of partnership: Shai Hope held guard, kept things steady at one end, and Rutherford just kept going. They batted brilliantly, but the Indian bowlers, after that first four or five overs, just completely forgot about bowling length. I think they pressed the panic button way too early, Aaron told JioStar. The Men in Blue decided to move away from a consistent length after making early inroads. Mayank Yadav claimed two wickets in the opening over and finished with three scalps, giving India and opportunity to keep the pressure on the visitors. Aaron felt the bowlers could have made better use of that early advantage by continuing to target disciplined lengths instead of frequently switching to variations. They went to their yorkers, slower balls, bouncers, wide bouncers and wide slower balls way too early. Mayank Yadav got three wickets. Two of those three wickets were off proper length. That's exactly what Arshdeep should have done, especially when Rovman Powell was batting at the start and was looking very shaky. They gave him a few full tosses, trying to bowl yorkers. He got a few boundaries off them, and then they kept building the innings. Since they had those two early wickets from Mayank Yadav, India could have stuck to their lengths a little longer, he added. West Indies, however, recovered from losing three wickets for 58 runs as Hope and Rutherford combined to transform the chase. Hope remained unbeaten on 102 off 45 balls, while Rutherford snuck strick 84 off 37 deliveries. Their 120-run stand put the visitors back in command and laid the foundation for a successful pursuit. They gave him a few full tosses, trying to bowl yorkers. He got a few boundaries off them, and then they kept building the innings. Since they had those two early wickets from Mayank Yadav, India could have stuck to their lengths a little longer, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Shivam Dube was promoted to No. 4 but failed to fire as India lost to West Indies in the second T20I in Ranchi.
South Africa vs Australia LIVE Score Updates, 1st Test Day 2: Australia will look to build on late momentum as they enter Day 2 in the first Test against South Africa in Durban.
The ongoing T20I series between India and the West Indies continues with the visitors registering an exceptional victory . The two sides met at the JSCA International Complex in Ranchi on October 9th, and the Windies managed to chase down a target of 250 runs, thanks to a brilliant ton by skipper Shai Hope.
Weatherald backed to return as South Australia thump Victoria
Two-time defending Sheffield Shield champions South Australia have started their new campaign with an innings win over Victoria at Junction Oval
There Might Be Some Paddles In The Air: Pietersen Backs Hopes IPL Appeal After Record Chase
Indian Premier League: Former England captain Kevin Pietersen has tipped Shai Hope to attract interest from Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises after the West Indies skipper produced a match-winning century against India in the second T20I in Ranchi on Friday, steering his side to a six-wicket victory with a record chase of 250. If Shai Hope puts his name into mini IPL auction, there might be some paddles in the air from a few tables, Kevin Pietersen wrote on X. Hopes unbeaten 102 off 45 balls helped West Indies reach 252 for four in 19.2 overs, completing the highest successful T20I chase against India and levelling the five-match series at 1-1. His innings combined controlled strokeplay with a late acceleration that left the Indian bowling attack unable to defend a formidable total. The 31-year-old found crucial support from Sherfane Rutherford, who smashed 84 off just 37 deliveries in a 120-run partnership that transformed the contest. West Indies had stumbled to 58 for three inside the powerplay after losing two wickets in the opening over, but the pair turned the pressure back on India with an aggressive counterattack. Hopes performance offered a reminder of his ability to adapt his game to the demands of T20 cricket. While Rutherford supplied the explosive hitting during the middle overs, the captain ensured the chase remained on course before taking charge in the closing stages. India had posted 249 for five, with Sanju Samson leading the innings with 82 off 41 balls and Tilak Varma contributing 44. However, Roston Chases three-wicket haul and the early dismissals of the West Indies batters were overshadowed by the visitors remarkable recovery. Pietersens remark came after Hope demonstrated both qualities in a chase that required sustained aggression and composure. India had posted 249 for five, with Sanju Samson leading the innings with 82 off 41 balls and Tilak Varma contributing 44. However, Roston Chases three-wicket haul and the early dismissals of the West Indies batters were overshadowed by the visitors remarkable recovery. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'NZ Tour Will Challenge Sooryavanshi'
New Zealand pacer Lockie Ferguson believes the coming tour of New Zealand will present significant challenges and exciting opportunities for 15-year-old Indian cricket sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, despite his impressive recent performances.
1st Time In 149 Years: Australia Achieve Unique Feat vs South Africa. A Glaring Concern Pops Up
Australia achieved a unique first in the first Test against South Africa, but it also highlighted an underlying issue.
'They Are Not Foreign Bowlers': Gautam Gambhir's Strong Message After India Defeat vs West Indies
In a T20I contest where batters scored over 500 runs in a match (only the second time in history), it is only natural that the bowlers will be under the microscope
Gambhir Defends Dube Move, Urges India to Learn From WI Loss
After India's defeat despite scoring 249, Gautam Gambhir says only the openers are permanent in T20 cricket and backs a flexible batting order.
2nd T20I: Shai Hope Is A World-class Cricketer, Says Gambhir After West Indies Record Chase
The West Indies: India head coach Gautam Gambhir acknowledged Shai Hopes class after the West Indies skippers unbeaten century powered the visitors to a record-breaking six-wicket victory in the second T20I in Ranchi, helping them chase down Indias 250-run target and level the five-match series at 1-1. Hope struck 102 off 45 balls to anchor the highest successful T20I chase against India, combining with Sherfane Rutherford, who smashed 84 off 37 deliveries, to overturn an early collapse and complete the pursuit with four balls remaining. Hopes innings was particularly significant given the position West Indies found themselves in during the opening stages. India struck twice in the first over and reduced the visitors to 58 for three in the powerplay, but the West Indies captain kept the chase on track through a commanding partnership with Rutherford before taking responsibility for the finish. Gambhir highlighted Hopes experience in both formats of white-ball cricket, pointing to the captains ability to maintain an aggressive scoring rate while ensuring he remained at the crease until the target was within reach. Shai is a world-class cricketer, Gambhir said in the post-match press conference. We respect him for what hes done in white-ball cricket, not only in the 50-over format but in this format as well. His record speaks for him. What he did today, especially after losing two wickets (in the first over). To continue batting at run-rate of 12-plus (an over) with Sherfane, just shows how good they are when the wicket is flat and theres dew. He batted deep which was important and in the end he finished the game. He was able to pace his innings really well. The West Indies recovery also underlined the limitations of Indias early breakthroughs on a surface where dew made defending a large total increasingly difficult. Rutherford took the attack to the Indian bowlers, while Hope provided the stability and acceleration required to prevent the chase from losing direction. Their 120-run stand transformed the contest, leaving India unable to regain control despite Mayank Yadav finishing with three wickets. Gambhir maintained that the opening exchanges were not enough to determine the outcome against a side capable of recovering from setbacks and sustaining its intensity throughout a T20 match. Ive played enough cricket to know that games are not decided in the first over. They are a strong T20 side and we respect them, Gambhir said. We know how dangerous they are. A game of cricket is won and lost when you play consistently for a period of 40 overs. While Hopes century dominated the result, Indias batting decisions also featured in Gambhirs assessment of the match. Shivam Dube, promoted to No. 4, scored five off seven balls as India lost momentum against Roston Chase, who returned figures of three for 24. Gambhir, however, defended the promotion, arguing that the teams flexible batting order was based on a longer-term strategy rather than an isolated performance. Weve used him like this for a long period of time, even at the World Cup and before that. It was not just a one-off today. Weve lost momentum today but weve gained a lot of momentum when hes gone at No. 4 and taken down opposition bowlers, Gambhir said. This is international cricket, sometimes it goes your way, sometimes it doesnt. And more importantly, weve always been flexible with our batting line-up and well continue with it. Ive said in T20 cricket only the openers are fixed. The bottom line is we couldnt defend 250. They batted extremely well. They deserved to win and we still need a lot of work to be done when youre playing against a dangerous team, especially when you lose the toss. India had posted 249 for five, with Sanju Samson scoring 82 and Tilak Varma contributing 44, but Hopes unbeaten 102 ensured that total was not enough. West Indies finished on 252 for four, registering their highest successful chase in T20 internationals and the highest successful T20I chase against India. The bottom line is we couldnt defend 250. They batted extremely well. They deserved to win and we still need a lot of work to be done when youre playing against a dangerous team, especially when you lose the toss. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
The West Indies put forth a brilliant showing against the Indian team in the second T20I of the ongoing series between the two sides. The teams met at the JSCA International Complex in Ranchi for...
All Selectors Are On Same Page: Ex-India Star Drops Massive Bomb On Possible Mohammed Shami Comeback
Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra expressed uncertainty over star pacer Mohammed Shami making a comeback to the Indian team, disclosing what the BCCI selection committee thinks of him.
Dont Shrug Off Any Defeat: Gambhir Urges India To Find Answers After WI Run Riot
Gautam Gambhir: India head coach Gautam Gambhir has called for a more competitive contest between bat and ball and urged his side to address its bowling shortcomings after the West Indies chased down 250 against India in the second T20I in Ranchi, winning by six wickets to level the five-match series at 1-1. Despite India reducing the visitors to 58 for three inside the powerplay, Shai Hopes unbeaten century and Sherfane Rutherfords explosive 84 powered the West Indies to their highest successful T20I chase, exposing Indias inability to defend a formidable total in dew-laden conditions. Reflecting on the defeat, Gambhir stressed that India could not afford to overlook their shortcomings, even as he acknowledged the difficulties of bowling on a batting-friendly surface. He also made it clear that the teams status as world champions should raise its expectations rather than shield it from criticism. You dont shrug off any defeat. If you want to keep improving, you dont want to put anything under the carpet. We are a world-champion team so we want to keep improving. These are obviously tough conditions to bowl - we know flat wickets with the dew - obviously its tough but we need to figure out and find the way. Especially with the opposition having lost two wickets in the first over and then lost three wickets in the powerplay. But again, credit to the West Indies, the way Shai Hope and Sherfane batted, we know they are world-class batters, especially in the format. It was tough on us but were going to keep improving, Gambhir told the media in the post-game press conference. The result also renewed questions about the balance between bat and ball in high-scoring T20 cricket. India posted 249 for five, with Sanju Samson leading the charge with 82 off 41 balls and Tilak Varma contributing 44, but the West Indies batters made light of the target with a relentless assault. Asked about the nature of the contest, Gambhir emphasised that conditions should allow bowlers a fair opportunity to compete rather than leave them at the mercy of the batters. You dont want a good bat-and-ball competition? Gambhir asked. What you want to see, thats also what we want to see. We also want to see an even contest. These bowlers are our bowlers, not someone elses bowlers. Their careers are at stake, they have worked hard to sit in this dressing room. If its an even competition, well see a better game of cricket. India had appeared to seize control when Mayank Yadav struck twice in the opening over and removed another batter early in the sixth. However, Hope and Rutherford dismantled the attack through a 120-run partnership, with Rutherford smashing 84 off 37 deliveries before Hope completed an unbeaten 102. Gambhir backed Mayanks decision to rely on pace rather than take the pressure off with slower deliveries, saying the young quick had followed the approach expected of a fast bowler. India had appeared to seize control when Mayank Yadav struck twice in the opening over and removed another batter early in the sixth. However, Hope and Rutherford dismantled the attack through a 120-run partnership, with Rutherford smashing 84 off 37 deliveries before Hope completed an unbeaten 102. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'Can BCCI Stop Making Dead Pitches?'
'There is nothing for the bowlers and it's killing the game.'
Will ORourke Ruled Out Of India Series, Eyes Australia Test Comeback
Batsman Mark Chapman: New Zealand fast bowler Will ORourke will sit out the upcoming home series against India as he continues his recovery from injuries to his left hamstring and calf, with the pacer and the team management prioritising his availability for the four-Test tour of Australia in December. The 25-year-old had only returned to international cricket earlier this year after spending seven months on the sidelines with a back stress fracture. However, his comeback was interrupted by a hamstring tear sustained on the final day of New Zealands third Test against England in June, followed by a calf strain during a training session in late August. The Blackcaps coach Rob Walter said the decision was taken jointly with ORourke and the teams medical staff to allow the fast bowler sufficient time to recover and rebuild his bowling workload without risking further setbacks. Its obviously disappointing for Will to have to miss such a marquee tour at home against India. He was set to feature in both the ODI and Test series, but following subsequent discussions, we all agreed it was best for him to take some more time to rehabilitate both injuries and safely build up his bowling loads. Our pace bowling resources will be critical over the next few months so were taking a conservative approach to Wills return to ensure hes fully fit before he takes the field again. Ideally hell be able to return for Canterbury in the Plunket Shield in late December, and in a perfect world hell be ready to go for the opening Test against Australia in Perth on December 9, Walter said. ORourkes absence is a setback for New Zealands pace attack ahead of a demanding international schedule, although the team management is keen to avoid rushing back a bowler who has already endured two significant injury interruptions. Since making his Test debut in 2024, ORourke has claimed 49 wickets in 14 matches at an average of just under 25. His performances during New Zealands 2-1 Test series victory in England in June underlined his value, with the right-arm pacer taking 10 wickets before his hamstring injury ruled him out of further action. His immediate rehabilitation will determine whether he can return to domestic cricket for Canterbury in the Plunket Shield later in December, ahead of the first Test against Australia in Perth on December 9. New Zealands preparations for Indias visit have already been affected by other fitness concerns. Batsman Mark Chapman and all-rounder Zak Foulkes were ruled out of the T20 squad on Saturday, with Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner named as their replacements. The India tour will begin with five T20 Internationals on October 22, followed by five one-day internationals and two Test matches. New Zealand are scheduled to announce their squad for the ODI series on Sunday. New Zealands preparations for Indias visit have already been affected by other fitness concerns. Batsman Mark Chapman and all-rounder Zak Foulkes were ruled out of the T20 squad on Saturday, with Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner named as their replacements. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Shai Hope was at the forefront of another historic West Indies win, as he smashed a 102 off 45 balls to take his team to victory over India in the second T20I in Ranchi on Friday.
Raipur to Host India-Zimbabwe Women's T20I Series
Raipur is set to host all three matches of the India-Zimbabwe women's T20I series from October 16 to 20 at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium, with ticket sales opening on October 12.
New Zealand Suffer Major Injury Blow Ahead Of Series vs India, Star Pacer Ruled Out
Injured strike bowler Will O'Rourke has been ruled out of the home series against India and will target a return to face Australia, New Zealand Cricket announced on Saturday.
Chennai Super Kings part ways with batting coach Mike Hussey as part of a major coaching restructure
In a major development, IPL (Indian Premier League) franchise Chennai Super Kings came forward and announced that they will be parting ways with former Australia cricketer and batting coach Mike Hussey. The side decided on...
IND vs WI T20Is | Keep it simple, keep it fast: Speedster Mayank lets it rip
Mayank Yadav turned out to be a fast learner. He quickly understood he should be quick, and quick he was come the second T20I.
Arjun Tendulkar Omitted From Goa Ranji Squad
The Goa Cricket Association has named its 16-member squad for the upcoming Ranji Trophy campaign, with Abhinav Tejrana appointed captain and notable exclusion of Arjun Tendulkar, who had scored a century on his debut for Goa in 2022.
Gambhir Has a Clear Message for India After WI Chase 250
India head coach Gautam Gambhir acknowledged Roston Chase's disciplined bowling spell as a 'game-changing' factor in the second T20I, but stressed the need for India to improve their ability to defend large totals after West Indies successfully chased down 250.
Another Big Change At CSK Ahead Of IPL 2027, Long-Time Batting Coach Michael Hussey Departs
Michael Hussey has been part of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) for more than 15 years as player and coach, winning five IPL titles, but their association has come to an end.
Will O'Rourke to miss India series to rehabilitate from hamstring, calf injuries
The New Zealand quick is being rested as a precautionary measure with one eye on the four-Test tour of Australia in December-January
Shreyas Iyer Explains Why India Couldn't Defend 249 Against West Indies, Points Out One 'Factor'
Just the previous match, Shreyas Iyer scored 102* to almost single-handedly guide India to a win against the West Indies in the first T20I of the five-match series. On Friday, Iyer was at the receiving end of another 102* from the rival camp
William O'Rourke set to miss India series with injury, targets Australia Tests for comeback
In a major blow for New Zealand, the sides star pacer William ORourke has been ruled out of the upcoming multi-format series against the Indian team. It is worth noting that team India is slated...
Tanzid Hasan And Shadman Islam Lead Bangladesh To 317-8 In Afghanistan Test
Openers Tanzid Hasan and Shadman Islam hit solid half-centuries to guide Bangladesh to 317-8 on the first day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Abu Dhabi on Friday. Tanzid, fresh from his maiden hundred against Australia at Darwin, hit eight boundaries and four sixes in his 83, while Islam's 67 had seven hits to the rope after Bangladesh won the toss and batted. The duo took advantage of a slow-paced Sheikh Zayed Stadium, putting up a solid 124-run stand before Afghanistan hit back with five wickets for 101 runs. The slump included the wicket of Bangladesh's most experienced batter Mushfiqur Rahim for nought, Mominul Haque for 39 and skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto for 29. Wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das with 53 and Mehidy Hasan Miraz (24) added 62 for the sixth wicket to help push Bangladesh's total towards 300. At close, Nayeem Hasan was unbeaten on 11, and Taijul Islam was four not out. Afghanistan's quicks Mohammad Saleem (3-70), Ismat Alam (2-20) and Yamin Ahmadzai (2-62) shared the bowling honours. Ahmadzai could have had Islam caught on five but Hashmatullah Shahidi spilled an easy chance at cover, costing Afghanistan dearly. Leg-spinner Qais Ahmad had figures of 1-60. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories This is Afghanistan's home Test as they play matches on the neutral venues of the United Arab Emirates and India, given the volatile security situation in their own country.
To face questions after a team fails to defend 249 in a T20I is normal. On Friday night in Ranchi, when the world witnessed a T20I match in which the teams aggregated 500 runs for only the second time in history, it was India coach Gautam Gambhir who put on a brave face and faced the media
Farhans Blazing 89 Powers Pakistan To T20 Win Over Sri Lanka
Pakistan's newest skipper Sahibzada Farhan hit a swashbuckling half-century to guide Pakistan to a four-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the first T20 international in Rawalpindi on Friday. Farhan, appointed captain last month, smacked 89 off 53 balls with 10 fours and four sixes, guiding Pakistan to their target of 183 in 18.5 overs. The win gives Pakistan a 1-0 lead in the three-match series. Sri Lanka posted 182-8 as opener Lahiru Udara struck 91 off 55 balls after the tourists won the toss and batted. Farhan and Fakhar Zaman got the hosts off to a rollicking start of 54-0 in five overs as Sri Lanka's attack failed to stop the flow of runs, with Zaman scoring 21 off 13. Maaz Sadaqat kept the momentum flowing as he hit three sixes and four fours in a brisk 50, adding 92 runs with his skipper to lead Pakistan to within sight of victory. Pakistan lost Hasaz Nawaz and Saim Ayub cheaply before Farhan was caught in the deep, but it did not derail their chase. Earlier, Udara hit the highest T20 score by a Sri Lankan against Pakistan, improving upon Kusal Perera's 84 in Dubai in 2013. Udara added 60 runs for the third wicket with Kamindu Mendis (23) after a poor start saw captain Kusal Mendis dismissed for one and Kamil Mishara depart for six, helping the team recover from 18-2. Dasun Shanaka offered brief support as he and Udara added 57 for the fifth wicket, with Sri Lanka taking 66 runs off the last six overs. Fast bowler Naseem Shah grabbed 3-36 for Pakistan, while debutant Mohammad Imran took 2-21. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The remaining two matches are on Sunday and Tuesday, both in Rawalpindi.
Watch: AB De Villiers Rolls Back The Years, Smashes 111 Off Just 40 Balls In Legends League
South Africa great AB de Villiers was at his brutal best as he slammed a 37-ball hundred in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) 2026.
IND vs WI T20Is: West Indies beacon of Hope ready for some redemption
The West Indians batting graph has gone north ever since landing in India. After five outings against the Men in Blue across three ODIs and two T20Is, Hope has added 432 golden runs to his international tally
Sunil Gavaskar Asks The Tough Question As India Fail To Defend 249 Against West Indies In 2nd T20I
Not every day does one witness a T20 match in which over 500 runs are scored. West Indies chased down a record target of 250 against India with nine balls to spare
New Zealand Paceman Will O'Rourke To Miss India Series With Injury
Injured strike bowler Will O'Rourke has been ruled out of the home series against India and will target a return to face Australia, New Zealand Cricket announced on Saturday. O'Rourke is recovering from hamstring and calf muscle injuries and will not play in the home ODI and Test matches against India as a precaution, a statement from the national body said. New Zealand coach Rob Walter hoped his key new ball bowler would be cleared to play in the four-Test series in Australia starting in early December. It's obviously disappointing for Will to have to miss such a marquee tour at home against India, Walter said. We all agreed it was best for him to take some more time to rehabilitate both injuries and safely build up his bowling loads. Our pace bowling resources will be critical over the next few months so we're taking a conservative approach to Will's return to ensure he's fully fit before he takes the field again. The 25-year-old has impressed in 14 Tests since his 2024 debut, taking 49 wickets at an average just under 25. He was a hostile performer in New Zealand's 2-1 series win in England in June, taking 10 wickets, but hasn't played since injuring his hamstring in the final Test. He subsequently suffered a calf injury at a training session in August. O'Rourke was previously sidelined for seven months with a back stress fracture before returning to the field earlier this year. New Zealand have been hit by injuries in the lead-up to India's visit which comprises five Twenty20 Internationals starting on October 22, five ODIs and two Tests. Batsman Mark Chapman and Zak Foulkes were both ruled out of the T20 squad on Saturday. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories They were replaced by Josh Clarkson and Blair Tickner.
Shreyas Iyer Explains India's Shock Loss to WI in Ranchi
India captain Shreyas Iyer attributed his side's stunning six-wicket defeat against the West Indies in the second T20 International to the dew factor and the almost non-existent margin for error on the pitch, despite India posting a formidable 249 for five.
2nd T20I: Hope credits partnerships, Rutherford's fireworks after WI script record chase in Ranchi
Digital Desk | Ranchi, Oct 9 (IANS) West Indies captain Shai Hope said building partnerships and Sherfane Rutherford's explosive batting were key to his team's six-wicket victory over India in the second T20I, as the visitors chased down a daunting target of 250 at the JSCA International Stadium Complex here on Friday. Hope smashed a blistering 45-ball century, while Rutherford hammered 84 off 37 deliveries to help the West Indies complete the second-highest successful run chase in men's T20I cricket, reaching 252/4 with two overs to spare. Reflecting on the early setbacks that saw the visitors reduced to 5/2, Hope admitted the chase had become challenging but said playing in India always gave a team belief that a target could be achieved. That it's going to be a tough chase. But when you chase here in India, you always give yourself a chance. You always think you're in the game, regardless of what score is on the board. But five for two was always going to be challenging, Hope said after being named Player of the Match. Hope said the partnership with Rovman Powell helped the West Indies regain momentum before Rutherford's counter-attacking knock provided the decisive impetus to the chase. When we got that partnership there, myself and Rovman, we just got some more impetus in the innings, and then obviously Sherfane came and did what he did, played really well with the bat, and just gave us that spark that we needed to get over the line today, he said. The West Indies skipper also explained why he was content to let Rutherford take the attacking role during their match-winning 120-run fourth-wicket partnership. Hope reached his century off 45 balls, while Rutherford's 84 included seven fours and seven sixes. Yes, the thing about cricket, I really believe that we need to bat a lot better in partnerships. It's something that we tend to lack every now and again, but sometimes you just got to sit back, as you say, and watch (your partner) play shots, he said. In that situation there, as long as we kept going at the rate to keep up with the game, then I didn't need to take any unnecessary risk. I thought we were going really nicely, so just about calculating that chase as best we can, Hope added. Hope also praised off-spinner Roston Chase, whose three-wicket haul helped the West Indies recover after India's explosive start with the bat. Chase returned figures of 3/24, providing crucial breakthroughs as the hosts were restricted to 249/5. Amazing. On a surface and a field like this, to go at six runs an over is unbelievable. So he really kept us in the game. I know it was very difficult conditions to bowl on, so the way how he bowled and kept us in the game made it a lot easier for us to do that throughout the chase, that score, Hope said. Asked about his ability to clear the boundaries consistently, Hope credited his bats and the conditions while acknowledging that luck had also played a role in his outstanding innings. I just must say, all those SS bats that I have are pretty good. But yeah, the ball seemed to be travelling quite a bit here. Yes, the boundaries were a little bit bigger on the bigger side, but you just got to back myself. Just once the ball's in my zone, look at the best option to get the boundary, and it just came off well today. As I said before, I got to get some luck going my way, and today was one of those days for me, he said. The West Indies captain said his recent run of form was a result of preparation and maintaining mental freshness rather than any special comfort playing in India. It's a tough one. You know, when you're scoring runs, you're just happy. Maybe I could say it's a good streak I have with my form right now, but I just think the way I'm preparing, the way I'm trying to stay mentally fresh and ready is giving me the best chance of performing. I just hope it continues as long as possible, he said. Despite his remarkable century, Hope insisted he was not allowing the success to affect his mindset. No, definitely not. I never try to get too high. I try to keep myself as neutral as I can, he added. The victory gave the West Indies a 1-0 lead in the series, with the visitors producing a remarkable recovery after Mayank Yadav's three-wicket burst had put India in control early in the chase.
Centurion Shai Hope Leads West Indies' Highest Successful T20I Chase vs India
Skipper Shai Hope's unbeaten 102 helped the West Indies gatecrash India's party with a stunning six-wicket win in the second T20I in Ranchi on Friday.
Raza leads Zimbabwe in Ngarava's absence at UAE tri-series
The team will stay in the country to play Afghanistan in three T20Is and two Tests
JSCA International Stadium Complex: India captain Shreyas Iyer said it was difficult to determine a par score with the dew factor playing a significant role after the hosts' imposing total of 249/5 was chased down by the West Indies in the second T20I at the JSCA International Stadium Complex here on Friday. The West Indies rode on skipper Shai Hope's blistering 45-ball century and Sherfane Rutherford's explosive 84 off 37 deliveries to pull off a six-wicket victory, completing the second-highest successful run chase in men's T20I cricket with two overs to spare. Honestly speaking, you cannot put a number to it, because when the dew factor comes in, it plays a massive role. And even 249 was chased in, like, with two overs to spare. So you cannot give a number, or probably anticipate that, okay, this is the number we would be trying to score, Iyer said after the match. Reflecting on the West Indies' remarkable batting display, Iyer acknowledged that the margin for error was minimal on a batting-friendly surface, where even slight lapses in execution proved costly. The margin of error on this wicket is very minor, and any delivery, if you miss it, if you miss to execute it, it was going onto the stands, and you could see how exceptional they were batting. So, a few missed chances here and there, but that's part and parcel of the game. But credit where it's due, they batted amazingly, and yeah, kudos to them, he said. India had appeared to seize control after Mayank Yadav struck three times in the powerplay, dismissing Kamil Pooran, Shimron Hetmyer and Rovman Powell to leave the visitors under pressure. However, Hope and Rutherford counterattacked with a 120-run fourth-wicket partnership that shifted the momentum decisively towards the West Indies. Iyer praised Mayank's impact with the ball and the contributions of Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma, highlighting the importance of their performances in setting the tone for the team. Both were phenomenal in their departments, and this is what we look for now and then from Sanju and Abhishek. The way they've been performing consistently throughout, taking that responsibility and setting the pace for us exceptional performances by them, and also Mayank, he said. Those three crucial wickets, it was something that stabilized the rhythm for us up ahead, but then after that the partnership came in, and the momentum shifted towards them, the India captain added. Earlier, Samson had helped guide India to 249/5 with a brutal 82 off 41, while Iyer hit 40 off 18 balls and Tilak Varma was unbeaten on 44 off 18 balls. Those three crucial wickets, it was something that stabilized the rhythm for us up ahead, but then after that the partnership came in, and the momentum shifted towards them, the India captain added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
IND vs WI second T20: Shai Hope, Sherfane Rutherford dazzle as West Indies draws level
Shai Hope hits an unbeaten 102 off just 45 deliveries while Sherfane Rutherford smashes a 37-ball 84 as the Men in Maroon pull off their highest chase in the shortest format; Samsons knock goes in vain
Steve Smith surpasses Steve Waugh to become Australia's third-leading run-scorer in Test cricket
Steve Smith surpassed former captain Steve Waugh to become the third leading run-scorer for Australia in Test cricket history. The veteran achieved the feat in the opening day of the first Test against against South...
IND vs WI 2nd T20I: Hope, Rutherford Power West Indies To Record Chase Against India In Ranchi
JSCA International Stadium Complex: Skipper Shai Hope smashed a blistering 45-ball century before Sherfane Rutherford hammered 84 off 37 deliveries as the West Indies pulled off a sensational six-wicket victory over India in the second T20I at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Friday, getting past a daunting target of 250 to register the second-highest successful run-chase in men's T20I cricket. Hope and Rutherford shared a record 120-run stand for the fourth wicket after India pacer Mayank Yadav's hat-trick in the Power-play period had brought them back in the game with the visitors struggling at 44/3. Their counterattacking partnership was the biggest for the West Indies in T20Is for the fourth wicket as well as the third biggest for the fourth wicket against India in the shortest format. After a half-century off 24 balls, Hope had another brilliant follow-up to his tour, hitting 104 from 45 balls, the fastest T20I century by a West Indian against India and the second-quickest West Indian in the format (after Johnson Charles's 39-ball effort against South Africa in 2023). Rutherford provided equally destructive support, bringing up his half-century off 24 balls and finishing with 84 off 37 deliveries, including seven fours and seven sixes. The left-hander's eighth T20I fifty also extended his sequence of consecutive 50-plus scores to three, putting him alongside Evin Lewis and Nicholas Pooran among West Indies batters to achieve the feat. Both Hope and Rutherford recorded the joint-second-fastest half-centuries by a West Indies batter against India in T20Is, behind Johnson Charles' 20-ball effort in 2016. Reverting to the visitors' pursuit of 249 for 5, they overtook Australia's 245 for 5 against New Zealand at Auckland in 2018 for the second-highest successful run chase in T20Is, behind South Africa's 259 for 4 in the 19th over against West Indies at Centurion in 2023. India also suffered a loss despite such a strong batting performance that led to 249 for 5 in 20 overs. India had earlier put up a strong total of 249/5, thanks largely to Sanju Samson's blazing knock of 82 off 41 balls, skipper Shreyas Iyer's quickfire 40 off 18 balls and Tilak Varma's unbeaten 44 off 18. The highly aggressive batting from the three helped the hosts arrest a middle-order collapse and end up with a huge total. Samson was aggressive from the word go, punishing the West Indies pace attack with aggressive hitting during the powerplay. The right-hander scored a half-century off just 21 balls, tying the record for the fastest 50 by an Indian in T20Is versus West Indies, held by Virat Kohli. It was achieved at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai against West Indies in 2019. India were 79/1 at the end of the Power-play and raced to 127/1 at the halfway mark, with Samson and Ishan Kishan going at a good rate. Ishan Kishan played some flamboyant shots before he was bowled by Roston Chase for 43 off 22 balls in the 12th over. Chase then bowled Dube for seven off 10 balls, dragging the left-hander on to his stumps, before Shamar Springer took the catch in the deep off a Kesture Paul delivery in the 15th over to dismiss 'missed chance' Samson. It was the right-hander's second consecutive half-century as he scored 82 (94, 46) before Kamil Pooran caught him. Chase quickly clawed his way back, ending with 3/24, before India's momentum was finally checked in the final overs. Tilak and Iyer then bludgeoned the hosts' attack for an 83-run stand in 32 balls, taking the score to within almost 250 runs. Tilak was particularly brutal in the final stretch, clattering three sixes in a row while Dhir also brought out the big shots with a four off the sole ball he faced. In reply, West Indies lost an early wicket when Mayank Yadav removed two in the first over. After mistiming a pull and falling for four off two, Kamil Pooran was snaffled at midwicket by a well-judged catch from substitute Ravi Bishnoi. Hetmyer was out for a golden duck to a delivery that was hurtling down at 144.5 kph before forcing him into a rushed cross-batted shot across the line. Mayank returned to remove Rovman Powell for 24 off 13 balls in the sixth over, clocking 149.5 kph as he beat the batter's attempted heave and sent the off stump cartwheeling. His three-wicket burst left the West Indies in trouble, but Hope responded with an attacking half-century to keep the chase alive. Hopes half-century was raised in 24 balls, with Rutherford at the other end matching the rate. They milked India's errors Mayank a sitter of a catch from Kuldeep Yadav at short fine leg offered Hope a life just before drinks. The southpaw capitalised on the respite and raced to his half-century off just 24 balls, flaying the Indian bowlers to all parts. The 15th over finally saw Kuldeep winning the battle against Rutherford, as the left-arm wrist spinner trapped the batsman for 84 off 37 balls in his own bowling. However, Rutherford got a touch of luck when an outside-off length ball was played by him for a drive back of square and was caught by wicketkeeper Samson. The stand was worth 120 runs. Yet the damage was done. Hope's magnificent knock had got the visitors close enough, and the West Indies crossed the line at 252/4 to clinch a historic six-wicket win with the highest successful T20I run chase in their history and second-highest in the format overall. Brief scores: Yet the damage was done. Hope's magnificent knock had got the visitors close enough, and the West Indies crossed the line at 252/4 to clinch a historic six-wicket win with the highest successful T20I run chase in their history and second-highest in the format overall. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Matthew Humphreys back for Ireland's ODI tour of Namibia
Ireland Wolves squad, featuring many of the same players, are set to travel to Zimbabwe for two four-day games and five one-day matches in November
Hope 102*, Rutherford 84 help West Indies pull off their highest T20I chase
India put up 249 for 5 but without Jasprit Bumrah the bowlers couldn't defend it
Nkomo to lead unchanged Zimbabwe squad for maiden India tour
The squad also features Biza and Ndhlovu, who finished as top ODI and T20I run-scorers respectively in the series against West Indies earlier this year
Farhan, Sadaqat help Pakistan ace 183 chase to go 1-0 up
Lahiru Udara's 91 was the only bright spark in an otherwise hapless batting performance from Sri Lanka
Zimbabwe Cricket Reveals Limited-overs Squads For UAE Tour, Tri-series
ZIMBABWE T20I SQUAD: Zimbabwe Cricket has named its limited-overs squads for a multi-format tour of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where the team will face hosts Afghanistan and Bangladesh in an ODI tri-series before taking on Afghanistan in three T20Is and two Test matches. The extensive assignment runs from October 17 to November 17, with the selectors retaining faith in the core of the groups that featured in recent white-ball series. Sikandar Raza will once again captain the ODI side in the absence of Richard Ngarava, who is still recovering from a back injury, while also leading Zimbabwe in the T20I series. The ODI squad largely comprises players who faced Australia in Harare last month, with Tafadzwa Tsiga and Vincent Masekesa coming in for Innocent Kaia and Graeme Cremer. Kaia is working his way back to full fitness after suffering a thigh strain but is expected to be ready for the T20I series, Zimbabwe Cricket informed in a release on Friday. Tsiga and Masekesa are both in contention for their ODI debuts, adding options to a squad that blends established internationals with an emerging generation of players. Raza, Craig Ervine and Brendan Taylor provide experience in the batting group alongside Ben Curran, Brian Bennett and Tadiwanashe Marumani. Blessing Muzarabani heads the pace attack, which also includes Brad Evans, Ernest Masuku and Newman Nyamhuri, while Masekesa joins Wellington Masakadza and the all-rounders among the spin options. Masekesa has also been named in the T20I squad and, alongside Tsiga, is in contention for a debut in the shortest international format. Kundai Matigimu will replace Evans for the third and final T20I. Zimbabwe will open the ODI tri-series against Bangladesh on October 17 before meeting Afghanistan on October 19. The hosts will face Bangladesh in the final round-robin fixture on October 21, with the top two teams advancing to the final on October 23. Zimbabwe and Afghanistan will then contest three T20Is on October 27, 29 and November 1. The tour concludes with two Tests, scheduled for November 5 to 9 and Nov 13 to 17. Zimbabwes Test squad will be announced in the days leading up to the series. ZIMBABWE ODI SQUAD: Sikandar Raza (Captain), Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Ernest Masuku, Newman Nyamhuri, Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza, Wessly Madhevere ZIMBABWE T20I SQUAD: Sikandar Raza (Captain), Ben Curran, Blessing Muzarabani, Brad Evans, Brendan Taylor, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Ernest Masuku, Newman Nyamhuri, Ryan Burl, Tadiwanashe Marumani, Tafadzwa Tsiga, Vincent Masekesa, Wellington Masakadza, Wessly Madhevere Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Steve Smith Breaks Steve Waugh's Test Runs Record in Durban
Steve Smith surpassed Steve Waugh's Test run tally in 42 fewer matches, moving behind only Ricky Ponting and Allan Border among Australia's leading run-scorers.
Landmark ODI Win Over WI Makes Zimbabwe Pick Unchanged Squad For White-ball Tour Of India
Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Zimbabwe Cricket (ZC) on Friday retained the 15-player squad that secured the countrys landmark first-ever ICC Womens Championship victory over the West Indies for their upcoming six-match white-ball tour of India, scheduled to begin on October 16. Captain Josephine Nkomo will lead the unchanged side after the national selectors opted to back the group that created history by defeating West Indies Women by four wickets at the Harare Sports Club a fortnight ago. The historic win over the Caribbean side, despite losing T20I and ODI series to them, gives Zimbabwe significant momentum ahead of a challenging tour featuring three T20Is followed by three ODIs, which form part of the ICC Womens Championship. The tour kicks off with the three-match T20I series to be played at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Stadium in Raipur, the capital city of Chhattisgarh, on October 16, 18, and 20, respectively. The two teams will then travel to Gujarat for the three-match ODI leg, to be played at the Baroda Cricket Association (BCA) Stadium in Vadodara on October 23, 25, and 28, respectively. India will be captained by left-handed opener Smriti Mandhana, who will begin her full-time captaincy stint after replacing the long-serving Harmanpreet Kaur earlier this week. Medium-pacer Nyasha Gwanzura, who registered career-best figures of 4-33 to trigger the win over the West Indies, anchors the bowling setup alongside Michelle Mavunga and Francisca Chipare. The batting effort relies heavily on Modester Mupachikwa, Sharne Mayers, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Kelis Ndhlovu, and Beloved Biza, with skipper Nkomo and Nomvelo Sibanda providing vital top-tier international experience. Although they lost all three matches, they showed encouraging signs and will now test their progress against one of the leading sides in the womens game, said Zimbabwe Cricket in its statement on Friday. The batting effort relies heavily on Modester Mupachikwa, Sharne Mayers, Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, Kelis Ndhlovu, and Beloved Biza, with skipper Nkomo and Nomvelo Sibanda providing vital top-tier international experience. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Big Bash League Tickets Go On Sale As History-Making Chennai Opener Nears
The ticket sales for the Big Bash League (BBL) opener between the Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers, to be played at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, will begin on Saturday.
Sanju Samson roared back to form with a blistering 82 before Shreyas Iyer and Tilak Varma's rapid knocks powered India to 249/5 in the second T20I against the West Indies on Friday
Essex confirms release of batter Robin Das following court appearance on rape charges
Digital Desk | London, Oct 9 (IANS) English county club Essex on Friday confirmed the release of batter Robin Das after he appeared in court charged with raping a woman twice. Das appeared in the dock at the Inner London Crown Court on Friday and was granted conditional bail ahead of a five-day trial scheduled for January 2028. The cricketer was charged with two counts of rape in July. According to the Metropolitan Police, Das was arrested in August 2025 following reports of a woman being raped in Brixton in March 2024. Following Fridays legal proceedings, Essex issued an official statement confirming that Dass playing contract had been terminated before the conclusion of the 2026 season following his suspension and subsequent inability to fulfill his playing commitments. The club also said the contractual decision was separate from the ongoing legal proceedings. Essex County Cricket Club is aware of today's court proceedings involving Robin Das. The club recognises the seriousness of the matter and will not comment further on the circumstances of the case. Das's playing contract with Essex ended before the conclusion of the 2026 season following his suspension and his resulting unavailability to fulfil his playing obligations. This decision was separate from the ongoing legal proceedings, the club said in its statement. The county side further stated that it maintains strict safeguarding and disciplinary protocols. Essex County Cricket Club has robust safeguarding and disciplinary procedures in place and regularly reviews these to ensure they remain appropriate. We will continue to work closely with the ECB, PCA and The Cricket Regulator as part of our ongoing commitment to maintaining the highest standards across the club, it stated. Das, based in Leytonstone, east London, made a solitary first-team appearance for Essex during the 2026 season, scoring 29 runs in a One-Day Cup match against Middlesex on July 21, shortly before he was charged by the police. In all, he made 60 appearances for Essex.
2nd T20I: There Is Only One Way To Go, Says Samson After Aggressive 82-run Blitz
JSCA International Stadium Complex: Sanju Samson said his responsibility as an India opener was to provide the team with a strong start and insisted there was no room to change his approach despite a string of low scores, after his blistering 82 off 41 balls powered India to 249/5 against the West Indies in the second T20I at the JSCA International Stadium Complex here on Friday. Samson, who struck nine fours and four sixes, said he continued to trust his preparation and training while accepting that results in the shortest format were not always within a player's control. Being a professional cricketer playing for India, you definitely take care of the professional side of it. You do your preparation, you do your practice, you do your training, you do everything possible in your hands. But, to be very honest, we all know in this format the result is not in your hands, but there is only one way to go, Samson said after the innings. You can't say I've had three bad innings, so let's take some time, let's build my innings, and then we will see. No, there is only one way to go. I think the team comes first. My job is to just give a great start for my country, and I try to do that. I take responsibility when I get out also, so that's totally fine, and I'm taking the blame on me. I don't blame anyone else for not scoring runs. That's my job, and I try to do it every time I step out to the ground. Samson's knock set the platform for India's imposing total, with Ishan Kishan contributing 43 off 22 balls before being bowled by Roston Chase. The off-spinner also dismissed Shivam Dube for seven, while Shamar Springer ended Samson's innings when Kamil Pooran took a catch in the deep. Shreyas Iyer then provided the late impetus with a quickfire 40 off 18 deliveries, while Tilak Varma remained unbeaten on 44 off just 18 balls. The pair's aggressive stand helped India recover from a brief middle-order wobble and finish with a daunting total. Reflecting on the conditions, Samson said batting was not straightforward at the start, with the ball skidding through and occasionally staying low. That's the thing about playing at different venues. I got to bat yesterday in the centre, so we could understand a bit that the ball might skid a bit and stay a bit low. It was staying a bit low and skidding through, but we just had one wicket to go. I think we just had to go for it, and things came off nicely today, he said. Asked whether he picked specific targets after getting set, Samson said he preferred to react to the ball rather than plan shots. I just try to look at the ball and have a very positive frame of mind. If the ball is in my area, I definitely go for it. It doesn't matter if it's over cover or over long-on. It depends on where the bowler is bowling. I don't like to get a bit premeditated. I just like to be blunt, watch the ball and back my instincts, he said. Despite India's commanding score, Samson cautioned that the West Indies' powerful batting line-up could make the chase challenging. I just try to look at the ball and have a very positive frame of mind. If the ball is in my area, I definitely go for it. It doesn't matter if it's over cover or over long-on. It depends on where the bowler is bowling. I don't like to get a bit premeditated. I just like to be blunt, watch the ball and back my instincts, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Samson, Varma fire India to record 249 in 2nd T20I VS WI
Sanju Samson's explosive 82, followed by rapid knocks from Shreyas Iyer (40) and Tilak Varma (44 not out), propelled India to their highest-ever T20I total against the West Indies, posting 249/5 in the second T20I in Ranchi.
2nd T20I: Samson, Tilak Power India To 249/5 Against West Indies In Ranchi
JSCA International Stadium Complex: An explosive 82 off 41 balls by Sanju Samson and Tilak Varmas unbeaten 44 off 18 deliveries, complemented by Shreyas Iyers quickfire 40 off 18 balls, powered India to a formidable 249/5 in 20 overs against the West Indies in the second T20I at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Friday. Samson and Tilak set the stage for Indias imposing total with contrasting yet equally destructive knocks, while Iyers late assault, which included 44 runs off 18 deliveries in the partnership with Tilak, ensured the hosts finished on a high after the visitors briefly fought back through Roston Chases three-wicket burst. Samson blazed his way to a quickfire fifty as India comfortably reached 79/1 in the Power-play against the West Indies in the first T20I, racking up huge pressure on the visitors' bowling unit. Samson scored his ninth T20I fifty off just 21 balls, equaling the fastest half-century by an Indian in T20Is against the West Indies, a feat previously achieved by Virat Kohli. Kohli's fastest T20I half-century in India against West Indies also came off 21 balls at the Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai, in 2019. Impression by the right-hander continued from the very first over, unleashing the attack on Windies bowlers and maximizing fielding restrictions. There was a lot of strain on Akeal Hosein and Romario Shepherd as India cruised ahead in the run rate. Abhishek Sharma (20 off 12) too got off to a flier but was dismissed by Roston Chase off the off-spinner's first ball. Ishan Kishan opened his account in front of his home crowd before Samson. As Samson found the fence at will and Kishan took guard patiently, India emerged to stride at six for the loss of no wicket after the first six overs, a position that will certainly give West Indies plenty to ponder. India kept pushing on the runs, reaching 127/1 at the halfway stage as Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan began to target the West Indies bowlers. Sanju was 72 off just 33 balls when he got out, and local hero Kishan hit 33 from 17 balls, maintaining a brisk scoring rate that kept the visitors on the back foot. Samson punished the West Indies for the chances they had missed, Kamil Pooran and Motie failing to hold on to the catches after which the right-hander continued his onslaught. Both batters were scoring boundaries regularly, and India looked set to amass a hefty score before the West Indies started thinking about a breakthrough. Indias innings suffered a few setbacks after a blistering start, with the West Indies fighting back through off-spinner Roston Chase. Ishan Kishan entertained the home crowd with a fluent 43 off 22 balls, including six fours and two sixes, before Chase bowled him in the 12th over to end a promising knock. The off-spinner then struck again to dismiss Shivam Dube for seven off 10 balls, dragging the left-hander onto his stumps as India lost their third wicket. Sanju Samson, meanwhile, continued his sensational innings before falling for a magnificent 82 off 41 balls, studded with nine fours and four sixes. Shamar Springer broke the standstill in the 15th over, with Kamil Pooran taking a catch in the deep to make amends for an earlier dropped chance. Samson received a standing ovation from the Ranchi crowd as he walked back, having registered the highest individual T20I score at the venue. Chase finished his four overs with impressive figures of 3/24, helping the West Indies claw their way back after Indias explosive start. Skipper Shreyas Iyer and Tilak Varma joined forces to give India a late-innings flourish, powering the hosts to a formidable 249/5 in 20 overs after the West Indies had briefly fought back with a flurry of wickets. Iyer smashed 40 off just 18 balls, while Tilak remained unbeaten on 44 off 18 deliveries, as the pair added a crucial partnership of 83 runs in 32 deliveries in the death overs to put India firmly in control. Tilak was particularly destructive, striking boundaries at will and taking the attack to the West Indies bowlers when India needed a strong finish. Tilak in particular was aggressive in the partnership, smashing a hat-trick of maximums, helping India add a substantial total in the final overs. Naman Dhir chipped in with a four off his only ball, as India finished with 249/5, setting the West Indies a daunting target. Tilak was particularly destructive, striking boundaries at will and taking the attack to the West Indies bowlers when India needed a strong finish. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sanju Samson equals Yuvraj Singh's tally, smashes 82 runs to propel India to a huge total against WI
The Indian team took on the West Indies in the 2nd T20I of the series. The two sides met at the JSCA International Complex on October 9th, and the clash saw the West Indies come...
Essex confirm Das release as batter appears in court over rape charge
Batter was charged with two counts of rape in July
Ireland men's team to play five ODIs in Namibia in October-November; A team to tour Zimbabwe
Digital Desk | Dublin, Oct 9 (IANS) The Ireland mens cricket team will play five ODIs against Namibia in Windhoek from October 22 to November 1, said Cricket Ireland while announcing its extensive winter schedule on Friday. Following the senior team's assignment in Namibia, the Ireland 'A' side, called as Ireland Wolves, will head to Zimbabwe for a tour featuring two four-day matches and five one-day fixtures against Zimbabwe A from November 6 to 28. Paul Stirling will lead a 16-member ODI squad in Namibia, with Lorcan Tucker serving as vice-captain. Left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys will captain the Ireland Wolves across both formats in Zimbabwe. Nine players selected for the senior series will also feature on the Wolves tour, while six squad members will later head to the UAE for the International League T20 (ILT20). Senior pacer Mark Adair has been included in the Wolves red-ball squad to provide leadership to the young seam attack. Cricket Irelands Director of High Performance, Graeme West, said the long-term importance of these winter tours is huge given that Namibia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa will co-host the 2027 ICC Mens Cricket World Cup and the qualifying tournament. West noted that playing on turf wickets in warmer conditions offers crucial exposure The squads selected for the senior mens and Wolves tours feature the best of Irish mens current and emerging talent, and the chance for such a large cohort of players getting away during the winter months to play outdoors on grass in warmer conditions is a welcome one. With Namibia and Zimbabwe hosting the ICC Cricket World Cup and Qualification events in 2027 alongside South Africa, the tours provide great opportunities for our players to familiarise themselves with the conditions and some of their potential opponents. Regarding the Wolves tour, Zimbabwe are always keen to engage in the longer format and the two back-to-back first-class matches will test our physical capacity as much as our technical skills, he said in a statement. Additionally, Ireland's developmental pathway will see the Under-19 mens squad play four 50-over games in South Africa starting from October 12, while the Under-19 womens team will feature in four T20s against Namibias Capricorn Eagles from October 25. Squads: Ireland Senior Men (Namibia ODI trip): Paul Stirling (c), Lorcan Tucker (vc), Mark Adair, Andrew Balbirnie, Ben Calitz, Curtis Campher, Cade Carmichael, George Dockrell, Gavin Hoey, Matthew Humphreys, Andy McBrine, Liam McCarthy, Byron McDonough, Jai Moondra, Jordan Neill, Harry Tector. Ireland Wolves Red-Ball (Zimbabwe tour): Matthew Humphreys (c), Mark Adair, Ben Calitz, Cade Carmichael, Chris Defreitas, Stephen Doheny, Jake Egan, Gavin Hoey, Matthew Hollard, Liam McCarthy, Byron McDonough, Jai Moondra, Jordan Neill, Tim Tector, Reuben Wilson. Ireland Wolves White-Ball (Zimbabwe tour): Matthew Humphreys (c), Ben Calitz, Cade Carmichael, Chris Defreitas, David Delany, Gareth Delany, Stephen Doheny, Gavin Hoey, Matthew Hollard, Josh Little, Liam McCarthy, Byron McDonough, Jai Moondra, Jordan Neill, Tim Tector.
Adams leaves Hampshire after 25 years for Tasmania role
Hampshire's young batters have struggled to kick on under club legend's stewardship
Fast bowlers share honours on Day One as South Africa restrict Australia to 187/6
Digital Desk | Durban, Oct 9 (IANS) A fast bowling attack minus spearhead Kagiso Rabada helped South Africa restrict Australia to 187/6 before bad light and rain brought an early end to the first day of the first Test at Kingsmead in Durban on Friday. Despite missing Rabada, the likes of Anrich Nortje, Wiaan Mulder and Marco Jansen utilised early movement and bounce effectively after Australia elected to bat on a pitch carrying a tinge of grass. Mulder drew first blood by removing Travis Head (9), before Jansen ended Nic Maddinsons scoreless 33-ball stay on his Test return to leave the visitors reeling at 24/2. Marnus Labuschagne (37) and Steve Smith (25) mounted a recovery with a 60-run third-wicket alliance coming off 94 balls. Smith, who went past Steve Waugh to become Australias third-highest run-scorer in mens Tests, hit spinner Keshav Maharaj for two sixes before falling to Jansen after lunch. On the other hand, Labuschagnes 11th consecutive innings without a fifty ended when Mulder trapped him LBW with a sharp nip-backer. Nortje, making his comeback to red-ball cricket after three years, then dealt a double blow in a single over -- removing Alex Carey (14) and Beau Webster (4) to reduce Australia to 124/6. But Matt Renshaw (46 not out) and skipper Pat Cummins (33 not out) displayed immense patience under heavy overcast skies and floodlights by stitching together an unbeaten 63-run stand off 140 balls for the seventh wicket to steady the innings. Bad light and light rain eventually cut the final session short by an hour, with 65.2 overs bowled on the day. Jansen, Mulder and Nortje shared two wickets apiece for the Proteas, while off-spinner Simon Harmer bowled an economical spell of 0-34 in 14 overs. Play will resume early on Saturday with Australia seeking to build on their late recovery. Brief scores: Australia 187/6 in 65.2 overs (Matt Renshaw 46 not out, Marnus Labuschagne 37; Wiaan Mulder 2-31, Marco Jansen 2-35) against South Africa
AB de Villiers smacks 37-ball century; South Africa beat Australia by eight wickets
Former South Africa captain AB de Villiers stole the show in the World Championship of Legends clash against Australia. Chasing 210 runs at the Sharjah Cricket Ground, the Proteas lost the wicket of Faf du...
Bengal head coach provides major update on Rishabh Pant's fitness ahead of New Zealand series
The stage is set for the upcoming multi-format series between India and New Zealand. The two sides will meet across five T20Is, five ODIs, and two Test matches. Ahead of the series, there have been...
BCCI calls key meeting for IPL 2027 season
The Indian cricket board (BCCI) has scheduled a joint stakeholder meeting in Mumbai on October 15 to review past seasons and plan for the Indian Premier League's landmark 20th season in 2027, inviting franchise owners, CEOs, state associations, and broadcasters.
BCCI calls for joint stakeholder meeting ahead of 20th IPL season
BCCI calls for joint stakeholder meeting ahead of 20th IPL season
Pageant or pillar: what exactly is the Laver Cup?
Where does the tournament, modelled on golfs Ryder Cup, stand in tennis? What does it bring to the sport? And for how long will its carefully engineered success endure?
'Breakdown In Communication': Fresh Report Exposes BCCI And Centre Of Excellence Concerns
Of late, the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) has grabbed the limelight for all the wrong reasons
BBL Opener in Chennai: Cheapest Tickets Priced at Rs 1,500
Ticket sales for the historic Big Bash League (BBL) opener between Melbourne Renegades and Perth Scorchers, set to be played in Chennai on December 12, will commence on Saturday, with prices ranging from Rs 1500 to Rs 6000.
Vinay Kumar on a mission to restore Karnatakas golden era
The new coachs stint starts with the Ranji Trophy opener against Andhra; the former champion will not be at full strength due to injuries and national call-ups
2nd T20I: Motie Replaces Forde As WI Elect To Bowl In Ranchi
JSCA International Stadium Complex: The West Indies won the toss and elected to bowl first against India in the second T20I of the series at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on Friday. West Indies captain Shai Hope said his side opted to bowl first, taking into account the wet conditions and the possibility of them worsening as the evening progresses. He acknowledged the quick turnaround between matches and said the team was keen to learn from its mistakes and come back stronger. Hope also confirmed one change to the West Indies playing XI with Gudakesh Motie coming in for Matthew Forde. We are going to bowl first, this time around. We gotta look at the conditions; it's wet and will get worse in the evening. Quick turnaround, trying to learn from the mistakes. Just come back stronger. It's already a bit wet, so it's going to get even worse as the evening goes on. We're just going to try to put them under pressure with the ball and then chase them down. It's about trying to learn from the mistakes we made in the first game. Especially against a quality side like India, you can't really give them too many chances. We've got to make sure we put that game behind us quickly and come back stronger today. One change. Matthew Forde is out, and Gudakesh Motie is in. Everyone's probably going to get a go on this tour, said Hope after the toss. India captain Shreyas Iyer said his team would have preferred to bowl first as well, but stressed the need to adapt quickly to the conditions. He said the focus was on maintaining high standards throughout the 40 overs and challenging themselves to improve, adding that India would field an unchanged playing XI. We were looking to bowl first as well; we will have to adapt quickly. We have talked about maintaining standards for 40 overs. We want to challenge ourselves to get better. We are going with the same team, said Iyer. Playing XIs: India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson(w), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer(c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Kuldeep Yadav, Mayank Yadav Playing XIs: Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Josh Philippe and Sam Konstas hit aggressive half-centuries and pacer Spencer Johnson struck crucial blows as Australia A beat India A by 69 runs in the second one-day match on Friday.
West Indies bring in Motie and bowl; India unchanged
India are on a ten-match winning streak in T20Is
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st T20I LIVE Score Updates
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 1st T20I LIVE Score Updates: New captain Sahibzada Farhan will lead Pakistan against Sri Lanka.
Former New Zealand Test opener Jeet Raval has announced his retirement from all professional cricket, Northern Districts Cricket said on Friday
Razaullah, Mohammad Imran make T20I debuts as Sri Lanka bat in Rawalpindi
Pakistan's new T20I captain Sahibzada Farhan said they would have bowled anyway
Pakistan have pulled out of the Asian Hockey Champions Trophy 2026 after their request to host their matches at a neutral venue was denied, with Bangladesh set to replace them in the competition. The Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) had approached the
'X factor' Nortje is back, and Australia are in trouble
South Africa's Anrich Nortje, returning to first-class cricket after nearly four years, took two quick wickets to leave Australia struggling at 149-6 at tea on the opening day of the first Test. Nortje's fiery spell after lunch justified his recall, as he dismissed Alex Carey and Beau Webster in quick succession.
India defeated West Indies by eight wickets in the opening of the five-match T20I series in Lucknow. Captain Shreyas Iyer led by example, scoring an unbeaten century, while Ishan Kishan played the perfect role of a second fiddle. They will now look to strengthen their hold on the T20I series in the second match at the JSCA International Stadium Complex in Ranchi on October 9.
Patidar's fifty in vain as Australia A beat India A again
Australia A defeated India A by 69 runs in the second one-day match in Puducherry, securing an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Aggressive half-centuries from Josh Philippe and Sam Konstas, along with crucial wickets from pacer Spencer Johnson, led Australia A to victory, while India A's top order struggled.
Patidars lone hand not enough as Australia-A clinches series
India vs West Indies Live Streaming, 2nd T20I Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch
Here are the live streaming and live telecast details for India vs West Indies second T20I -
Ravindra Jadeja Returns To Saurashtra Ahead Of Crucial New Zealand Tests
India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja will turn out for Saurashtra in their opening match of the 2026-27 Ranji Trophy season against Chhattisgarh.
Konstas, Johnson Power Australia A To Series-clinching 69-run Win Over India A
Cricket Association Pondicherry Siechem Ground: Sam Konstas top-scored with 67 while left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson led a relentless bowling display with a three-wicket haul as the duo powered Australia A to a series-clinching 69-run victory over India A in the second 50-over game at the Cricket Association Pondicherry Siechem Ground on Friday. Australia A once again delivered a complete performance on a sluggish pitch. Their top order set the game up early, with Konstas and number three Josh Philippe (58) striking fluent half-centuries. The duo were also supported by handy contributions from skipper Nathan McSweeney (32), Mitch Owen (25), and Lachlan Shaw (25). Even when India A's bowlers triggered a late collapse, Australia A's top-heavy blitz ensured they reached 275 in 49.5 overs, a target that proved far beyond the reach of India A. For India A, seam-bowling all-rounder Arshad Khan took 3-56, while Yash Thakur grabbed 2-46. When it came to defending the total, Australia As pacers outclassed India As batters with pace and bounce. With Mahli Beardman rested, Johnson, Riley Meredith, and Ben Dwarshuis extracted sharp bounce and movement to reduce India As chase to a mere procession by taking out Devdutt Padikkal, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad and B Sai Sudharsan in the power-play. With Kumar Kushagra and Nishant Sindhu falling without doing much, India A never recovered from the early damage in the chase of 276. For India A, Rajat Patidar offered the sole resistance through hitting 67 off 82 balls - his second consecutive half-century of the series. However, with wickets tumbling around him, Patidar lacked support as the chase unravelled, before he fell to Johnson. Eventually, India A were bowled out for 206 in 45.2 overs, giving Australia A an unpassable 2-0 lead in the three-game series, with the final game to happen on Sunday. With Kumar Kushagra and Nishant Sindhu falling without doing much, India A never recovered from the early damage in the chase of 276. For India A, Rajat Patidar offered the sole resistance through hitting 67 off 82 balls - his second consecutive half-century of the series. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Kapil Dev has a blunt message for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Cricket legend Kapil Dev has cautioned against creating 'excessive hype' around 15-year-old Indian cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, drawing parallels with Vinod Kambli's career, and urged the media to give the young talent time to develop.
