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Hockey Star Hardik Singh Proposed For Khel Ratna; 24 Recommended For Arjuna Awards
Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna: Two-time Olympic bronze medallist hockey player Hardik Singh has been recommended for the prestigeous Major Dhyan Chand Khel Ratna, the highest award for sportsperons given the government, while athletes Tejaswin Shankar, Priyanka, chess grandmaster Vidit Santosh Gujarati and Divya Deshmukh, shooters Akhil Sheron and Mehuli Ghosh and women's badminton pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand were among those recommended for the Arjuna Award by the committee set up by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports on Wednesday. The committee, which met in New Delhi on Wednesday, has recommended the 27-year-old midfielder, Hardik, for the prestigious award for his contributions to the Indian hockey team in the last two years. Hardik has played a key role in the Indian team winning bronze medals in the Tokyo and Paris Olympic Games and was also a member of the Indian team that won gold in the Asian Games in Hangzhou in 2023 and the Asia Cup 2025 in Rajgir. Born in Khusropur in Punjab, Hardik, who has been a mainstay of the Indian men's hockey team, has so far earned 166 caps with the national team and is employed with the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC). Six hockey players have been conferred the Khel Ratna so far - Dhanraj Pillay (1999-2000), Sardar Singh (2017), Rani Rampal (2020), PR Sreejesh (2021), Manpreet Singh (2021), and Harmanpreet Singh (2024). Sources said his was the only name recommended by the panel. What was surprising for many was that no member of the Indian women's cricket team, which made history by winning their maiden Women's ODI World Cup title last month, was considered by the panel. Interestingly, last year, Indian mens hockey team captain Harmanpreet Singh received the Khel Ratna alongside two-time Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker, chess prodigy Gukesh D, and para-athlete Praveen Kumar. The selection committee also recommended 24 sportspersons for the Arjuna Awards, including Aarti Pal, who became the first yogasana athlete to be recommended for the honour. Aarti is the reigning national and Asian champion in yogasana, which will feature as a demonstration sport at the Asian Games in Japan next year. Rifle shooter Mehuli Ghosh, gymnast Pranati Nayak, and India's top-ranked women's badminton pair of Treesa Jolly and Gayatri Gopichand are also among the recommendations. Polo star Padmanabh Singh, along with Sonam Malik (wrestling), Sutirtha Mukherjee (table tennis), Rudransh Khandelwal (para-shooting), Olympian rower Arvind Singh, and Ekta Bhyan (para-athletics), have also been recommended. Notably, no cricketer features among this years recommendations. Mohammed Shami was the last cricketer to receive the Arjuna Award in 2023. The committee did not suggest any names for the Dronacharya Award and the Dhyan Chand Lifetime Award. The recommendations: The committee did not suggest any names for the Dronacharya Award and the Dhyan Chand Lifetime Award. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Arjuna Award: Tejaswin Shankar (athletics), Priyanka (athletics), Narender (boxing), Vidit Gujrathi (chess), Divya Deshmukh (chess), Dhanush Srikanth (deaf shooting), Pranati Nayak (gymnastics), Rajkumar Pal (hockey), Surjeet (kabaddi), Nirmala Bhati (kho kho), Rudransh Khandelwal (para-shooting), Ekta Bhyan (para-athletics), Padmanabh Singh (polo), Arvind Singh (rowing), Akhil Sheoran (shooting), Mehuli Ghosh (shooting), Sutirtha Mukherjee (table tennis), Sonam Malik (wrestling), Aarti Pal (yogasana), Treesa Jolly (badminton), Gayatri Gopichand (badminton), Lalremsiami (hockey), Mohammed Afsal (athletics), Pooja (kabaddi). Article Source: IANS
Narendra Modi Stadium Ground: Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Vaibhav Suryavanshi, along with Ishan Kishan and Devdutt Padikkal, smashed centuries to benefit their respective teams in Round One of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26 Season on Wednesday. It was a day on which a record 22 individual centuries were scored on the opening day of the competition. From a team perspective, Karnataka and Bengal completed mammoth successful run chases to make a big statement on Day One of Indias premier domestic mens one-day tournament. Kohli marked his return to Bengaluru with a commanding century as Delhi chased down 299 against Andhra with more than 12 overs to spare in their Elite Group D opener on Wednesday. Kohli's 58th List A hundred - 131 off 101 balls with 14 fours and three sixes - at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground overshadowed Ricky Bhui's 122 for Andhra as Delhi secured a four-wicket victory. Delhi pacer Simarjeet Singh was adjudged Player of the Match for picking 5-54. Meanwhile, in Jaipur, another former India captain, Rohit Sharma, produced a masterclass in front of over 20,000 spectators at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, smashing an unbeaten 155 off 94 balls to guide Mumbai to an eight-wicket victory over Sikkim in Elite Group C. Rohit raced to his 37th List A century in just 62 balls before adding another 50 runs off 29 deliveries, cutting and driving at will against an inexperienced Sikkim attack that had posted 236/6, as Mumbai chased down the target in 30.3 overs. In Ranchi, Bihar posted a staggering 574/6 - now the highest score in men's List A cricket - as teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi smashed 190 off 84 balls and captain Sakibul Gani blasted an unbeaten 128 off 40 balls - the fastest by an Indian batter in men's List A cricket - to crush Arunachal Pradesh by 397 runs in a Plate Group match on Wednesday. Suryavanshi struck 16 fours and 15 sixes in his blistering knock at a strike rate of 226.19, adding 158 runs for the opening wicket with Mangal Mahrour (33) before combining with Piyush Singh (77 off 66 balls) for a 103-run second-wicket partnership. Wicketkeeper Ayush Loharuka continued the carnage with 116 off 56 balls, including hitting 11 fours and eight sixes, before Gani unleashed mayhem in the final overs by hitting 10 fours and 12 sixes to propel Bihar past the 500-mark. Bihar's bowlers then completed the rout, dismissing Arunachal Pradesh for just 177 in 42.1 overs with Akash Raj (3-29), Suraj Kashyap (3-31) and Himanshu Tiwari (2-33) sharing eight wickets between themselves. In Rajkot, Dhruv Jurel and Rinku Singh hit half-centuries as Uttar Pradesh opened their campaign with an 84-run win over Hyderabad at the Niranjan Shah Stadium. Apart from the duo, Abhishek Goswami and Aryan Juyal were among their other half-centurions. UP's spin trio - List A debutants Zeeshan Ansari (4-31) and Prashant Veer (3-47), along with Vipraj Nigam - stifled Hyderabad's chase of 325 after the UP top-order posted 324/5. Hyderabad captain Tanmay Agarwal's 53 off 43 balls threatened briefly before the lower-order collapsed, as they were bowled out for 240. Defending champions Karnataka pulled off a stunning run chase, overhauling a record target of 413 against Jharkhand with 15 balls to spare at the Narendra Modi Stadium Ground B in Ahmedabad. Player of the Match Devdutt Padikkal's brilliantly-paced 147 off 118 balls eclipsed Ishan Kishan's explosive 125 off just 39 balls - the second fastest List A century by an Indian male batter - as Karnataka romped home despite losing five wickets on the way. Captain Mayank Agarwal (54 off 34 balls) and Padikkal added 114 in the first 11.5 overs before Abhinav Manohar (56 not out) and debutant Dhruv Prabhakar (40 not out) sealed Karnatakas victory with an unbroken 88-run stand off 41 balls. Kishan had earlier clubbed 14 sixes in his whirlwind knock, helping Jharkhand amass 151 runs in the final 10 overs to post 412 for nine. Meanwhile, at the main Narendra Modi Stadium, Tamil Nadu opened their campaign with a 101-run victory over Pondicherry, with Pradosh Ranjan Paul (73) and captain N. Jagadeesan (67) laying the foundation for a total of 310/9. Bengal completed a successful chase of 383 against Vidarbha, with Abishek Porel (56 off 35 balls), captain Abhimanyu Easwaran (71), Sudip Gharami (68), and Shahbaz Ahmed (71 off 58 balls) guiding them to a stunning victory. Shubham Khajuria smashed an unbeaten 129 as Jammu and Kashmir thrashed Chandigarh by 10 wickets, with Nasir Lone taking four wickets and recent IPL auction pick Auqib Nabi claiming two. Himachal Pradesh defeated Uttarakhand by 95 runs as Akash Vasisht took three wickets, while Arzan Nagwaswalla's four-wicket haul powered Gujarat to an eight-wicket victory over Services. Saurashtra successfully chased down a 346-run target against Odisha with five wickets in hand, powered by Gajjar Sammar's unbeaten 132. Odisha's Swastik Samal had earlier smashed 212 with Biplab Samantaray contributing 100. Kerala thrashed Tripura by 145 runs after posting 348 for eight, with Baba Aparajith taking 5-15. Vignesh Puthur created List A cricket history by taking six catches as a fielder - the most ever in an innings, surpassing the previous record of five shared by 21 fielders. Punjab defeated Maharashtra by 51 runs, with Naman Dhir's 97, Anmolpreet Singh's 85, and Prabhsimran Singh's 60 laying the foundation for their big win before debutants Sukhdeep Bajwa and Krish Bhagat claimed two wickets each. Brief scores: Andhra 298/8 in 50 overs (Ricky Bhui 122; Simarjeet Singh 5-54, Prince Yadav 3-50) lost to Delhi 300/6 in 37.4 overs (Virat Kohli 131, Nitish Rana 77; Maramreddy Hemanth Reddy 2-6, Satyanarayana Raju 2-74) by four wickets Sikkim 236/7 in 50 overs (Ashish Thapa 79, Shardul Thakur 2/19) lost to Mumbai 237/2 in 30.3 overs (Rohit Sharma 155) by 8 wickets. Bihar 574/6 in 50 overs (Vaibhav Suryavanshi 190, Sakibul Gani 128 not out; Tadakamalla Mohith 2-99, Techi Neri 2-83) beat Arunachal Pradesh 177 in 42.1 overs (Kamsha Yangfo 32 not out, Techi Doria 28; Akash Raj 3-29, Suraj Kashyap 3-31) by 397 runs. Odisha 345/6 in 50 overs (Swastik Samal 212, Biplab Samantaray 100) lost to Saurashtra 347/5 in 48.5 overs (Gajjar Sammar 132 not out, Chirag Jani 86) by five wickets Services 184 in 42.2 overs (Arzan Nagwaswalla 4-34) lost to Gujarat 185/2 in 34.5 overs (Aarya Desai 77 not out) by eight wickets Haryana 267/9 in 50 overs (Himanshu Rana 126, Parth Vats 57) lost to Railways 270/4 in 43.4 overs (Ravi Singh 109 not out, Upendra Yadav 80) by six wickets Uttar Pradesh 324/5 in 50 overs (Abhishek Goswami 81, Dhruv Jurel 80) beat Hyderabad 240 all out in 43 overs (Tanmay Agarwal 53, Rahul Buddhi 47; Zeeshan Ansari 4-31) by 84 runs Jharkhand 412/9 in 50 overs (Ishan Kishan 125, Virat Singh 88; Abhilash Shetty 4/72) lost to Karnataka 413/5 in 47.3 overs (Devdutt Padikkal 147, Abhinav Manohar 56 not out) by five wickets Tamil Nadu 310/7 in 50 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 73, N. Jagadeesan 67) beat Pondicherry 209 in 46.5 overs (Neyan Kangayan 60, Gurjapneet Singh 4/32) by 101 runs Punjab 347/6 in 50 overs (Naman Dhir 97, Anmolpreet Singh 85) beat Maharashtra 296/8 in 50 overs (Ramakrishna Ghosh 73, Prithvi Shaw 46) by 51 runs Tamil Nadu 310/7 in 50 overs (Pradosh Ranjan Paul 73, N. Jagadeesan 67) beat Pondicherry 209 in 46.5 overs (Neyan Kangayan 60, Gurjapneet Singh 4/32) by 101 runs Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chhattisgarh 233 in 48.5 overs (Amandeep Khare 76, Mayank Verma 64; Deepraj Gaonkar 4/35) lost to Goa 234/4 in 44.1 overs (Snehal Kauthankar 107 not out) by six wickets Article Source: IANS
Pakistan Super League Gets 12 Bids For Two New Teams, But High Base Price Worries Bidders: Report
The Pakistan Super League: The Pakistan Super League (PSL) has received as many as a dozen bids for buying the rights for two new teams in the 2026 edition, with offers coming from five continents, even though a news report claimed that most of them are skittish on the high base price sought by the board. The PCB has set USD 4 million as the base price for the new PSL teams, claiming the interest has been high after two successful roadshows in London and New York attracted a good number of investors. There were reports that PCB has not received any bids for the new teams because of the high base price it sought, but sources told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) that they have received several bids. Around 12 bids were received, which is an exceptional and encouraging response to the tender issued for the sale of two new franchises of the Pakistan Super League (PSL), a source told www.telecomasia.net. The bidders belong to five continents, including the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Pakistan, which clearly reflects the PSLs growing global popularity and commercial appeal, the report claimed. A prominent businessman from the USA, Aamir Wain, has registered a bid under a consortium and is interested in buying the Hyderabad team, a source was quoted as saying in the report. The next phase of the bidding process will be announced on December 27 after scrutiny of the bids, as some of the bidders are reluctant to the price, which may go over 5 million dollars under the current rate of the currency. The PCB will conduct an auction in Islamabad on January 8, 2026, to finalise the sale. According to the report, PCB conducted a valuation of the existing five teams, which showed Lahore Qalandars got the highest rise in value. Lahore will pay 2.37 million dollars for the next ten years, while Karachi Kings estimated value stands at 2.27 million dollars. Multan Sultans became the most expensive franchise in 2018, but after a fallout with the PCB, their new value is estimated at 3 million dollars. The PCB will conduct an auction in Islamabad on January 8, 2026, to finalise the sale. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A bidder from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) told www.telecomasia.net that if top-class players are attracted to the PSL 2026, then only the League will be successful and give the right kind of value to the franchises. Article Source: IANS
SA20 Season 4: Proteas Spinner Harmer Joins DSG As Temporary Replacement For Narine
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Durban's Super Giants (DSG) have signed South Africa off-spinner Simon Harmer as a temporary replacement for West Indies off-spin bowling all-rounder Sunil Narine ahead of Season Fours commencement, said the tournament on Wednesday. Narine will arrive at Kingsmead for his maiden SA20 season after completing his commitments elsewhere, said a statement from the tournament. Harmer returns to Kingsmead after spending the past two seasons with Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC), where he was part of their season two championship-winning squad by picking eight wickets in 11 matches. Harmer, 36, joins DSG after being in exceptional form following a spectacular run with the Proteas Test side that saw him dismantle Pakistan and India batting line-ups. Harmer claimed 6-50 in the second Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi in October, driving South Africa to their first Test victory there in 18 years while reaching the landmark of 1,000 first-class wickets. But his spin bowling masterclass came against India, where he took 17 wickets at an average of 8.94, as South Africa, the current World Test Championship winners, got a 2-0 Test series win. Harmer began by picking figures of 4-30 and 4-21 at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, as South Africa got their first Test victory on Indian soil after 2010. Harmer, 36, joins DSG after being in exceptional form following a spectacular run with the Proteas Test side that saw him dismantle Pakistan and India batting line-ups. Harmer claimed 6-50 in the second Test against Pakistan in Rawalpindi in October, driving South Africa to their first Test victory there in 18 years while reaching the landmark of 1,000 first-class wickets. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Durban's Super Giants, which is owned by the RP-Sanjiv Goenka Group that also owns Indian Premier League team Lucknow Super Giants, is based in Durban and was formed in 2022. The team's home ground is the Kingsmead Cricket Ground. The team is coached by Lance Klusener. Article Source: IANS
DC School Cup: Modern School Barakhamba Road Claims Double By Winning Both Boys' And Girls' Titles
Modern School Barakhamba Road: Modern School Barakhamba Road were crowned champions of the DC School Cup 2025 in both boys and girls categories after the girls beat DPS RK Puram by 133 runs and the boys defeated St Thomas School by 57 runs to mark the successful completion of the tournament. In all, 16 schools participated in the boys category and four in the girls event across multiple weeks of cricketing action. Through this initiative, Delhi Capitals contributed meaningfully to Delhis cricketing ecosystem and inspired tomorrows champions. The DC School Cup Delhi Capitals flagship inter-school T20 tournament celebrated the citys sporting identity while discovering next-generation talent with BCCI-qualified officials, premium venues including the Arun Jaitley Stadium and GMR ground, with kits and professional match-day setups. In the girls final, Modern School Barakhamba Road beat DPS RK Puram by 133 runs to clinch the title. Batting first, opener Myra Rewal scored 83 off 53, and skipper Kashvi Kumar smashed 118 off 62 to take Modern to 240/2. Bowling with discipline, Avni Aggarwal took 1/12 as DPS managed 107/3 despite Vaibhavi Dudejas 75* off 63. In the boys final, Modern School Barakhamba Road beat St. Thomas School by 57 runs. Batting first, Tanmay Chaudhary starred with 118 off 65, and skipper Varun Sharma added 76 off 41 in a total of 215/5. Modern School then restricted St Thomas to 158/8 with Grihith Gumbers 3-43 and Tanmays 1-15, making Modern double champions. On the successful completion of the DC School Cup 2025, Sunil Gupta, CEO of Delhi Capitals, said, Heartiest congratulations to Modern School Barakhamba Road for their remarkable double triumph in both boys and girls categories of the DC School Cup 2025. Seeing hundreds of young Delhi cricketers showcase their talent coming from various schools has been truly inspiring, breathing new life into school cricket in the city. The sight of these budding cricketers playing their finals at the iconic Arun Jaitley Stadium smiles beaming ear to ear made every effort worthwhile. We look forward to even greater participation next year, particularly from more girls teams, as we continue to try and contribute to building Delhis cricketing future, he said. DC School Cup 2025: Best Performers Boys Player of the Match (Final): Tanmay Chaudhary - 118 off 65 balls Player of the Tournament: Tanmay Chaudhary - 583 runs Best Batter: Tanmay Chaudhary - 583 runs Best Bowler: Avyam Jain - 12 wickets Girls Player of the Match (Final): Kashvi Kumar - 118 off 62 balls Player of the Tournament: Kashvi Kumar - 147 runs Player of the Match (Final): Kashvi Kumar - 118 off 62 balls Also Read: Live Cricket Score Best Bowler: Avni Aggarwal - 5 wickets Article Source: IANS
Gujarat Giants Lack Indian Batting Reliability Despite Having A Balanced Squad, Says Chopra
IANS File Photo: Former India opener Aakash Chopra feels Gujarat Giants (GG) have assembled a well-rounded squad for their 2026 Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 campaign, but lack reliability in terms of Indian batting resources. Only one of Georgia Wareham or Kim Garth makes the XI. Gujarat Giants need batting firepower, which makes it tricky. Unlike Mumbai, Delhi, UP, or RCB - who boast 1-2 settled Indian stars in their top 4-5 - GG lacks that reliability, Chopra said on JioStar. Yastika Bhatia returns from injury, not a lock ahead of Richa Ghosh, leaving her isolated. Bharti Fulmali follows, so the lineup feels thin. Kim Garth sits out; Georgia Wareham plays to shore up batting, or it crumbles, he added. The WPL 2026 season runs from January 9 to February 5, and former India batter Veda Krishnamurthy felt the side did well to assemble a balanced squad at the auction table last month in New Delhi. Gujarat Giants are strong with Beth Mooney at the top, who scored heavily, and Ash Gardner excelled as captain at number four last year. They just needed the right combination with Sophie Devine, providing flexibility. Plenty of bowling options and experience with Renuka Singh Thakur taking the new ball. They stayed quiet for 70% of the auction, waited patiently, then secured key players - resulting in a well-balanced squad, she said. Gujarat Giants are strong with Beth Mooney at the top, who scored heavily, and Ash Gardner excelled as captain at number four last year. They just needed the right combination with Sophie Devine, providing flexibility. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Their pace bowling looks solid with Indian talents Kashvee Gautam, Titas Sadhu, and Renuka Singh, who brings valuable experience. The top and middle order boast depth with Sophie Devine, Beth Mooney, and Ash Gardner, while the spin attack appears robust toomaking this a very solid side overall, he said. Article Source: IANS
Ktaka Home Minister Defends Permission Denial For Vijay Hazare Trophy Match At Chinnaswamy Stadium
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar: Karnataka Home Minister G. Parameshwara has defended the governments decision not to allow the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match to be held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru. Speaking to reporters in Bengaluru on Wednesday, Parameshwara said that the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) president and former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad had met both him and the Chief Minister. The Justice Michael DCunha Commission has made a set of recommendations. The report was submitted to the KSCA, and they are required to respond to those recommendations, he said. However, the KSCA appears to have taken no action in this regard. When Venkatesh Prasad held a meeting, the matter was discussed. Subsequently, a high-level committee was formed. When the committee members visited the stadium, they found that not a single recommendation had been implemented. In this context, the committee decided not to grant permission to host cricket matches, Parameshwara stated. He further said that a total of 17 recommendations had been made to the KSCA, and permission would be granted to host matches once action is taken on these recommendations. The Karnataka Police have denied permission for the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd control concerns. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who raised critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh stated, The committee had gone to the stadium on Monday, on the instructions of the Home Department. Officers from various departments, including fire, Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and police, had inspected the stadium. As per the report from the officers, permission has not been granted for the match on Wednesday at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The committee has also given a detailed report. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemanth Kumar Singh, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who raised critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Notably, 11 people were killed in a stampede near the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory celebrations on June 4. Article Source: IANS
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Karnataka Script History With Record-breaking 413-run Chase In Ahmedabad
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Karnataka accomplished the second-highest run chase in the history of List-A cricket after chasing down an almost impossible target of 413 runs with fifteen balls remaining against Jharkhand in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. This chase now stands as the second-highest successful chase in List-A history, trailing just behind South Africa's record-setting chase of 435 runs against Australia at Johannesburg in 2006. Karnataka's historic chase was led by Devdutt Padikkal, who scored a majestic hundred. The left-handed batter scored 147 runs off 118 balls with 10 fours and seven sixes. He controlled the innings and struck the ball exceptionally cleanly, even with the required run rate throughout the majority of the innings hovering above 8 runs per over. Earlier, Jharkhand captain Ishan Kishan scored a century in just 33 balls--the second fastest in Indian List-A history, propelling his team past 400 runs and making it appear that the run chase could not be done in the List-A format. Karnataka's batting order responded to the challenge of the chase with as much intent and aggression as the bowling side did. It was Mayank Agarwal (54) who provided early momentum to the innings with a fluent half-century. In contrast, Abhinav Manohar (56), who is known for his powerful batting style, also contributed a quick strike rate through the middle of the innings with a further quick half-century. Thanks to these two players, Karnataka was able to keep the run rate within reasonable limits for the innings. Dhruv Prabhakar finished the innings off with an impressive performance on his List-A debut with an unbeaten 40, showing great maturity and poise for someone so young. Thanks to these two players, Karnataka was able to keep the run rate within reasonable limits for the innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this successful chase, Karnataka has entered the List-A record books, with only South Africa's 435 against Australia currently ranked higher. Karnataka's successful chase is now listed ahead of several well-known teams, including Queensland, Karachi, and Middlesex. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: After a roller coaster 2025, the Indian mens cricket team faces a jam-packed 2026, headlined by a home T20 World Cup defence, lots of ODI matches, and some tough World Test Championship (WTC) assignments in overseas conditions. It was a memorable 2025 for India, as they won the Champions Trophy in Dubai, especially with their four-pronged spin strategy bearing fruit. In terms of T20Is, the sides upswing continued with wins in bilateral series at home and abroad, including the Asia Cup, although they have yet to hold the trophy in their hands. But in terms of the Test team, results were mixed: a defeat to Australia in Sydney meant India lost the Border-Gavaskar Trophy series 3-1 and bid goodbye to their hopes of entering the World Test Championship final. Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and Cheteshwar Pujara retired from the format to mark the start of a big transition in the Test team. Shubman Gill became the new Test skipper and later took over as ODI captain. After a hard-fought 2-2 draw in England, India got an easy 2-0 series win over the West Indies at home. However, the ghosts of the 3-0 series loss in New Zealand came back to haunt them when South Africa condemned them to a 2-0 defeat. India's batting order in Tests remains in flux, with persistent experimentation raising questions about role clarity and long-term planning. But come 2026, the shortest format will be in focus big time, while ODIs take over the attention once the T20 World Cup is over. India's busy 2026 opens with New Zealand visiting for three ODIs and five T20Is, with the latter in huge focus due to the T20 World Cup happening on home soil and in Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, will enter the tournament as defending champions. As per current form and squad personnel, India are primed to retain the title they claimed in Barbados in June 2024 and try to make history as the first hosting side to win a Mens T20 World Cup. If that happens, India will also become the only team to have three titles in the T20 World Cup. The post-T20 World Cup schedule, once the IPL 2026 jamboree is over, resumes in June with Afghanistan arriving in India for one Test (not under WTC cycle) and three ODIs. India will then quickly leave for a white-ball tour to England in July, featuring three ODIs and five T20Is. India's World Test Championship assignments for 2026 begin in August with a two-Test series in Sri Lanka, a trip which will be a big examination for the side, who are yet to come to grips with how to play against spinners on spin-friendly pitches. A brief three-match T20I stopover against Afghanistan in the UAE is on the cards in September. The likelihood of it happening is larger than the postponed tour to Bangladesh, which looks shaky to take place due to the recent tensions in the country. India will also travel for the Asian Games T20 event in Aichi-Nagoya, Japan, from September 19 to October 4, where a second-string squad is expected to participate. India's World Test Championship assignments for 2026 begin in August with a two-Test series in Sri Lanka, a trip which will be a big examination for the side, who are yet to come to grips with how to play against spinners on spin-friendly pitches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will wrap up the year by hosting Sri Lanka for three ODIs and three T20Is in December, as they continue to fine-tune their preparation for the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup. India's players and various stakeholders will have to be at their best in terms of workload management across all three formats while pursuing a silverware quest and constant victories in various bilateral series. Article Source: IANS
Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate: Bihar Cricket Association (BCA) president congratulated the Bihar team for their historic performance, calling the match a moment of immense pride for state cricket. He lauded the entire squad for their fearless approach and discipline and extended special appreciation to the three centurions, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sakibul Gani and Ayush Loharuka, for their outstanding batting displays. Bihar produced a batting performance for the ages, shattering the mens List A record for the highest team total by piling up a staggering 574 for 6 in 50 overs against Arunachal Pradesh in a Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate match. The innings rewrote history, eclipsing the previous record of 506/2 by Tamil Nadu against the same opponents in 2022 and Englands 498/4 scored earlier that year. Bihar's innings was highlighted by three magnificent centuries, an astonishing 49 fours and 38 sixes, and a run rate of 11.48 throughout the 50 overs. The BCA president noted that such performances reflect the consistent hard work of the players, coaches and support staff. Heartiest congratulations to the Bihar team for producing a truly historic performance. Today's match is a moment of immense pride for Bihar cricket, said BCA president Harsh Vardhan in a statement. I congratulate the entire squad for their fearless approach and discipline, and extend special appreciation to our three centurions, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sakibul Gani and Ayush Loharuka, for their outstanding batting displays. Such performances reflect the hard work being put in by our players, coaches and support staff, he added. The standout performer was teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi, who, at just 14 years and 272 days, became the youngest player to score a hundred in mens List A cricket. He went far beyond that landmark, racing to the fastest 150 in mens List A history off just 59 balls, before being dismissed for a breathtaking 190 off 84 deliveries, laced with 16 fours and 15 sixes. The BCA president made a special mention of Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, calling the innings exceptional. He said records are meant to be broken and expressed confidence that this achievement is only the beginning, with many more milestones to come. A special mention must go to young Vaibhav Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, said Harsh Vardhan. The BCA president made a special mention of Suryavanshi for smashing multiple records and becoming the youngest player to score a century in mens List A cricket, calling the innings exceptional. He said records are meant to be broken and expressed confidence that this achievement is only the beginning, with many more milestones to come. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Vaibhav found excellent support in the middle order. Captain Sakibul Gani played a blistering unbeaten 128 off just 40 balls, smashing 10 fours and 12 sixes, and finishing the innings with brutal efficiency. Wicketkeeper-batter Ayush Loharuka scored a commanding 116 off 56 balls, striking 11 fours and 8 sixes, as Arunachal Pradeshs bowlers struggled to contain the onslaught. Article Source: IANS
Rohit, Kohli Smash Centuries On Vijay Hazare Trophy Return
Vijay Hazare Trophy: While the first half of the opening day of the Vijay Hazare Trophy was all about record-breaking centuries, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli stole the limelight in the second half with their respective hundreds on their return to the premier one-day domestic tournament. Rohit scored a century for Mumbai off just 62 balls against Sikkim, and Kohli followed soon, hitting an 83-ball ton against Andhra Pradesh, as both players dominated their opponents. Rohit made a sensational comeback to domestic cricket, scoring a century in what was his first Vijay Hazare Trophy match in seven years for Mumbai on Wednesday. Chasing Sikkims 236 runs in Jaipur, Rohit began confidently, hitting a series of sixes and fours that made the target seem easy to reach. Approaching 14,000 runs in the 50-over format, this century marked the former India skipper's 37th in List A cricket, adding to his tally of 33 international centuries for India. Following Rohits impressive 155 for Mumbai, Kohli marked his return to the Vijay Hazare Trophy after 15 years with a typical century during a 299-run chase against Andhra at the BCCIs Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru. Kohli confidently led the chase, showcasing his usual flair, and scored a dazzling hundred. This marked his 58th List A century and his third century in four innings since the South Africa series earlier this month. With his first run of the innings, Kohli joined an elite club as the ninth player ever to reach 16,000 List A runs, with more than 14,000 coming while playing for India since his debut in 2008. During the game, Kohli also etched his name in cricketing folklore by completing 16000 List A runs. With his first run of the innings, Kohli joined an elite club as the ninth player ever to reach 16,000 List A runs, with more than 14,000 coming while playing for India since his debut in 2008. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 37-year-old now stands as the ninth player overall to breach this milestone, joining the ranks of cricketing legends like Tendulkar, Ricky Ponting, Kumar Sangakkara, Sir Vivian Richards, and others. Article Source: IANS
Pant, Bumrah Apologised After Saying Something In Their Language About Me, Says Bavuma
World Test Championship: South Africa captain Temba Bavuma has revealed that India duo of Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah apologised to him after making remarks in their own language during the first Test at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Bavuma, who captained South Africa to 2-0 Test series win over India, noted that while such words are not easily forgotten, he harbours no ill will. A stump mic incident during day ones play caught Bumrah and Pant referring to Bavuma as bauna while appealing for an lbw off him in the 14th over. The term is generally used for people suffering from dwarfism, but can be deemed offensive when directed at individuals of short stature. A series against India is always going to be intense, and when it's heated, it makes it even more of a spectacle and motivates the players further. As long as the respect is still intact between players, it's all good with whatever happens on the field. I know from my side there was an incident where they said something in their language about me. At the end of the day two senior players, Rishabh Pant and Jasprit Bumrah, came and apologised. When the apology was made, I was in the dark about what it was about, I hadn't heard it at the time and I needed to check in with our media manager about it. What happens on the field, stays on the field but you don't forget what is said. You use it as fuel and motivation, but there are no grudges per se, Bavuma was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo on Wednesday. He also acknowledged that head coach Shukri Conrad could have used a better word instead of grovel during the second Test in Guwahati. Shukri also took some heat for his grovel remark. I was put under pressure by the media on that side, asking me to clarify the comments that were made. I thought Shukri was the man best positioned to give context to it all. The first time I heard about it, it had that unsavoury taste to it, but I think it just reminded me how tough and competitive the Test series was and what it meant to certain individuals within the group. Shukri spoke after the ODI series and put that issue to bed. In hindsight, he said he could have chosen a better word and I agree with him, added Bavuma. Before Bavuma & Co, South Africa last won a Test series in India under Hansie Cronjes leadership in 2000. Bavuma explained how he and Conrad made plans for months to ensure South Africa, the current World Test Championship holders, emerged victorious on their Test trip to India after previous failures in 2015 and 2019. In terms of coach Shukri getting the best out of us as players, that groundwork has been in play since we started. Shuks instils confidence in the players and makes them believe that they are the best. The premise is that if we play at our best, no one can stand near us. Before Bavuma & Co, South Africa last won a Test series in India under Hansie Cronjes leadership in 2000. Bavuma explained how he and Conrad made plans for months to ensure South Africa, the current World Test Championship holders, emerged victorious on their Test trip to India after previous failures in 2015 and 2019. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The seed was planted long before the Test series. The fact that we did it two and a half decades later speaks to the magnitude of our performance and overall achievement. It's another feather in our cap as a side, and we're growing very well as a Test team, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
England search for Christmas miracle, Australia eye next step to 5-0
The visitors have confirmed two changes while Australia will make at least three in a series where their adaptability has stood out
Kohli breaks a Tendulkar record, Rohit catches up with Warner
Virat Kohli is now the fastest to 16,000 List A runs, while Rohit Sharma has the joint-highest number of 150-plus scores in the format
Former India Physio Patrick Farhart Joins LSG As Global Head Of Science And Medicine
RPSG Sports Private Limited: Former India men's team physio Patrick Farhart has joined Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as Global Head of Science and Medicine, a franchise official told IANS on Wednesday. Besides LSG, Farhart will also join its sister franchises, the Durban Super Giants in SA20 and the Manchester Originals of The Hundred. Patrick Farhart will join LSG and its sister franchises as their Global Head of Science and Medicine from today. His work will start from the upcoming SA20 season for the Durban franchise, an LSG official told IANS on Wednesday. Farhat has been in the field for more than 20 years now and has also served the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash, the Kings XI Punjab and the Mumbai Indians in the Indian Premier League, as the team's physio over the years. He has also served as Performance Director for New South Wales, Hampshire, and Australia, and has worked with major rugby and football teams in Australia. Im happy to share that Im starting a new position as Global Head of Medicine and Science at RPSG Sports Private Limited! wrote Farhart on his LinkedIn account. The purpose of this role is to establish and maintain world class standards in athlete performance, health, injury prevention, injury rehabilitation, continuing professional development and scientific innovation for sports medicine and sports science staff attached to RPSG Sport teams, including Lucknow Super Giants (IPL), Manchester Originals (The Hundred), Durban Super Giants (SA20) and Mohun Bagan SG (ISL), added Farhart. Im happy to share that Im starting a new position as Global Head of Medicine and Science at RPSG Sports Private Limited! wrote Farhart on his LinkedIn account. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Australian served as the Indian team's physiotherapist from 2015 until the 2019 ICC World Cup. Article Source: IANS
Head, Conway Gain Big In Latest Rankings After Recent Red-ball Heroics
T20I Player Rankings: Performers in Test victories for Australia and New Zealand experienced significant gains following the most recent update in the ICC Mens Player Rankings. Players from both teams experienced a double celebration as Australia advanced to an unassailable 3-0 series lead against England in a home Ashes series, and the Black Caps secured a 2-0 series victory over the West Indies in Mount Maunganui. These performances have brought some Australian players close to the top positions in the Mens Test batting and bowling rankings. In Adelaide, Australia, Travis Head led the charge to an 82-run victory, with his second-innings score of 170 off 219 balls helping secure the win. This performance also moved Head up four places to joint third (815) in the rankings, alongside teammate Steve Smith. Alex Careys century in the first innings propelled him six spots up the rankings, advancing to ninth place with his highest rating of 737. Across the Tasman, New Zealands strong batting performance secured their win against the West Indies, resulting in a 2-0 series victory. Rachin Ravindras unblemished scores of 72 and 46 led to a five-place rise to 13th, while Devon Conways impressive scores of 227 and 100 boosted him to a career-high ranking of 681, tying him for 17th. Kavem Hodges aggressive innings of 123 not out resulted in an 11-place jump to 66th, marking his highest career ranking and rating. On the bowling front, two Australians are now best positioned to challenge Jasprit Bumrah as the top Test bowler. Mitchell Starc (third) and Pat Cummins (up four spots to second with a rating of 849) took a total of ten wickets in Adelaide, with Cummins just 30 rating points behind the Indian pacer. Starc also rose to third place on the Test all-rounders list after playing a key half-century in the victory, tying with Ashes rival Ben Stokes with a rating of 311. There were also improvements in the Mens T20I Player Rankings following the recently completed five-match T20I series between India and South Africa, which the Team in Blue won 3-1. The final match was an offensive showcase in Ahmedabad, as the hosts scored 231 runs in the first innings. India's leading scorer, Tilak Varma, scored 73 off 42 balls, surpassing Sri Lankas Pathum Nissanka to secure third place with 805 rating points. Meanwhile, Dewald Brevis rapid 31-run innings helped him rise into the top 10. The final match was an offensive showcase in Ahmedabad, as the hosts scored 231 runs in the first innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Varun Chakaravarthys four-wicket performance cements his leading position in the rankings, with a rating of 804, comfortably ahead of Jacob Duffy with 699 in second place. Article Source: IANS
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Ishan Kishan slams second-fastest List A century by an Indian
Just before Kishan's 33-ball feat, Bihar's Sakibul Gani scored the fastest List A ton by an Indian off just 32 balls
Bihar Captain Sakibul Gani Becomes Fastest Indian Batter To Score List A Century
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Bihar captain Sakibul Gani became the fastest Indian to score a List A century in just 32 balls in the Plate Group opener against Arunachal Pradesh in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at JSCA Oval Ground on Wednesday. Gani finished not out with 128 off 40 balls, just ahead of Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who on the same day scored a 33-ball century against Karnataka in the same tournament. Gani's record-breaking century included 10 fours and 12 sixes. The top two fastest List A centuries by Indians have all been recorded on the same day at two different venues, Ahmedabad and Ranchi, on the opening day of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-25. The world record for the fastest century in List A cricket belongs to Australian batter Jake Fraser-McGurk. The former Delhi Capitals player reached the 100-run mark in just 29 balls for South Australia against Tasmania in Adelaide on October 8, 2023. Teen prodigy Suryavanshi led the charge of Bihar's batting with an impressive 190 off 84 deliveries, whereas Ayush Loharuka scored a 56-ball 116, as captain Gani contributed another hundred to round out the assault. Suryavanshis performance made him the youngest centurion in List A cricket. After electing to bat first, Bihar went on to post the highest List A total of 574 for six, surpassing the previous record of 506 for 2 set by Tamil Nadu against Arunachal Pradesh in the same competition in 2022. The Bihar innings included 49 fours and 38 sixes. Fastest centuries by Indians in List A cricket Sakibul Gani 32 balls, Bihar vs Arunachal Pradesh, December 24, 2025 Ishan Kishan 33 balls, Jharkhand vs Karnataka, December 24, 2025 Anmolpreet Singh 35 balls, Punjab vs Arunachal Pradesh, December 21, 2024 Ishan Kishan 33 balls, Jharkhand vs Karnataka, December 24, 2025 Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yusuf Pathan 40 balls, Baroda vs Maharashtra, February 16, 2010 Article Source: IANS
Bihar Script History With Highest List A Team Total In Vijay Hazare Trophy
Vijay Hazare Trophy: Bihar are on a roll in its Vijay Hazare Trophy, having registered the highest team total in List A cricket during the Plate League opener against Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday. Batting first, Bihar posted a staggering 574 for the loss of six wickets, surpassing the previous List A record of 506/2 set by Tamil Nadu against Arunachal Pradesh in the 2022 Vijay Hazare Trophy. Teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshis blistering 190, coupled with a captains knock of 128 not out from Sakibul Gani and a fluent 116 from Ayush Loharuka, powered the team to a record-breaking total in a dominant batting display. Suryavanshi smashed a century off 36 balls to become the youngest centurion in List A cricket. His century was the second-fastest by an Indian man overall in List A cricket, after Punjab batter Anmolpreet Singh's 35-ball century against Arunachal in the Vijay Hazare competition last season. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84. Suryavanshi laid the foundation for Bihars imposing total with a dominant batting display, first adding 198 runs for the opening wicket alongside Mangal Mahrour (33). He then kept the momentum going by stitching together another century stand, putting on 103 runs for the second wicket with Piyush Kumar Singh, before being dismissed for a magnificent 190. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Skipper Gani, who joined Ayush to establish a 94-run partnership, hit the third-fastest century in List A cricket with his 32-ball hundred. His century is the fastest by an Indian in List A. He remained unbeaten on 128 off 40 balls, which comprised 10 fours and 12 sixes. Article Source: IANS
Ishan Kishan Becomes Second-fastest Indian To Smash Century In List A History
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Jharkhand wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan produced a breathtaking display of power-hitting, smashing a 33-ball century against Karnataka in a Vijay Hazare Trophy fixture in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. The innings ranks as the second-fastest hundred by an Indian in List A cricket, falling just one ball short of the national record set earlier the same day by Bihar skipper Sakibul Gani, who reached the milestone in 32 deliveries against Arunachal Pradesh. Kishans latest feat adds to an extraordinary run of form for the left-hander. Only days ago, he was a surprise inclusion in Indias squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, shortly after captaining Jharkhand to their first-ever Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy triumph. During the SMAT campaign, Kishan topped the charts with 517 runs and played a decisive role in the final against Haryana, where he struck a blistering century. His hundred came off just 45 balls, making him only the second player to score a ton in a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy final and registering as the third-fastest century in a mens T20 final. With five centuries in the tournament, he now shares the record for most hundreds in SMAT history with Abhishek Sharma. Kishans explosive credentials are well established at the international level, too. He holds the record for the fastest double century in One-Day Internationals, reaching the landmark in just 126 balls against Bangladesh in 2022. The Vijay Hazare Trophy witnessed several breathtaking performances on Wednesday. It all started with youngster Vaibhav Sooryavanshi grabbing headlines with his 36-ball century for Bihar, which he later converted into an 84-ball 190 before his knock came to an end. What followed next in the same innings was Ganis record-breaking ton and Ayush Loharukas 56-ball 116 as Bihar finished with a massive 574 runs on the scoreboard against Arunachal Pradesh. Kishans explosive credentials are well established at the international level, too. He holds the record for the fastest double century in One-Day Internationals, reaching the landmark in just 126 balls against Bangladesh in 2022. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Courtesy of Kishans recent performances in the domestic arena, he has earned a recall to the international setup, having been named in Indias T20I squad for the five-game series against New Zealand and the T20 World Cup in February 2026. Article Source: IANS
Archer Ruled Out Of Ashes, Atkinson Returns As England Name XI For MCG Test
Melbourne Cricket Ground: England announced their playing XI for the fourth Ashes Test against Australia, making two changes from the Adelaide game, as Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the series with side strain and Ollie Pope missed out on the upcoming game. Left-handed batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell comes into the side and is listed at No.3, while fast bowler Atkinson returned after missing the last outing. The fourth Ashes test is set to begin on Boxing Day, December 26, at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). England have made two changes to the XI that played in the third Test in Adelaide. Fast bowler Jofra Archer has been ruled out for the remainder of the tour with a left side strain, and Surrey batter Ollie Pope misses out. Warwickshires Jacob Bethell comes into the side and will bat at number three. Surrey seamer Gus Atkinson returns after missing the third Test, the ECB said in a statement. England have already lost the series, with the hosts winning the first three matches and taking an unassailable 3-0 lead. While the Ben Stokes-led side lost their campaign opener by eight wickets in Perth, on just the second day of the Test, they went on to lose the second Test at the Gabba by the exact same margin as the Aussies inched closer to retaining the urn. Warwickshires Jacob Bethell comes into the side and will bat at number three. Surrey seamer Gus Atkinson returns after missing the third Test, the ECB said in a statement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Englands XI for the MCG Test: Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes (c), Jamie Smith (wk), Will Jacks, Gus Atkinson, Brydon Carse, Josh Tongue. Article Source: IANS
Stokes promises 'complete support' to embattled Duckett
Ben Duckett, who is being investigated for his conduct while on tour in Australia and has gone six innings in the Ashes without getting to 30, has been retained in England's XI for the MCG Test
Vaibhav Suyavanshi Hits 36-ball Ton For Bihar In Vijay Hazare Trophy Opener
Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate: India's 14-year-old batting sensation, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, made headlines again after smashing a 36-ball century in the Vijay Hazare Trophy Plate league opener for Bihar against Arunachal Pradesh at the JSCA Oval Ground on Wednesday. Suryavanshi's century off 36 balls was the second-fastest hundred by an Indian man in overall List A cricket, after Punjab batter Anmolpreet Singh's 35-ball century against Arunachal in the Vijay Hazare competition last season. Overall, Suryavanshi's 36-ball ton ranks as the joint-fourth-fastest ever in the world in List A cricket. The teenage batter racked up his 150 off only 54 deliveries before being dismissed for 190 off 84, as Bihar are currently 379/2 in 39 overs. Earlier this month, Suryavanshi smashed an unbeaten century for Bihar against Maharashtra in an Elite Group B Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. He scored an unbeaten 108 off 61 balls, his maiden ton in the T20 domestic cricket tournament and third overall in the format. His century also made him the youngest batter to score a century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, at 14 years and 250 days. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. The explosive southpaw also slammed a ton against the Australia U19 team in Brisbane during a Youth Test match in November. His most recent jaw-dropping innings came in the Rising Stars Asia Cup, where he scored 144 off 42 balls for India A against UAE, smashing 11 fours and 15 sixes. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Last month, Instagram chose to spotlight Vaibhav Sooryavanshis journey on its official page - making him only the second Indian cricketer after Virat Kohli to receive the honour. Article Source: IANS
VHT: Suryavanshi slams 36-ball ton for Bihar, becomes the youngest List A centurion
Playing against Arunachal Pradesh in a Plate League fixture in Ranchi, Suryavanshi scored his first non-T20I ton in senior cricket
Kirstie Gordon Returns To International Cricket With Scotland, Ends Time With England
T20 World Cup: Kirstie Gordon, the captain of Nottinghamshire's Blaze team in English domestic women's cricket, has decided to return to international cricket with Scotland, over six years after her last appearance for England The 28-year-old left-arm spinner, who was born in Huntly, began her international career with Scotland at just 14 years old. However, in 2018, she chose to focus on a full-time cricket career within the English domestic system. During her time with England, Gordon earned selection for the 2018 T20 World Cup and played in a one-off Test against Australia in 2019. It's always been in the back of my mind in the last couple of years to return to Scotland, and it has helped having Craig Wallace (Scotland head coach) in my ear! He's been on the phone a few times and I feel like I've really connected with him and his vision for the team. If you couple that with the chance to play again with two of my best mates in Kathryn (Bryce) and Sarah (Bryce), it feels like it's the right moment to come home, Gordon said in a Cricket Scotland statement. I made my Scotland debut very young, and I was fortunate to go to the first global qualifiers in Thailand in 2015, so I had some awesome experiences with Scotland at that time, but I was really keen to try and take my cricketing career as far as I could. Going to Loughborough for university, the opportunities and avenues to play at a higher level really opened up from there. I eventually decided to stop my Scotland career and become a local player in order to play for Loughborough Lightning. I guess I did that while not really knowing what the prospects were, but I then was selected for England at the World Cup in the West Indies. It was probably always on my radar that I wanted to play at the highest level, so I absolutely loved it, and I'm really grateful for those opportunities, she added. Between 2012 and 2017, Gordon represented Scotland in 60 international matches before switching to England. Now, after recovering from a back injury, she plans to be ready for the start of the 2026 domestic season and will be available for future Scotland selections. It's exciting to hear Kirstie is now available for selection for Scotland and we are delighted to welcome her back home. She's obviously a top-class player and an excellent person and having got to know her I'm looking forward to the opportunity to work with her. I think the most pleasing thing about her decision is that it shows the strength of our squad, that somebody of Kirstie's ability is wanting to come and challenge to compete for a place in the team. We have created a strong group and culture on and off the pitch, and it's fantastic that she wants to join it and be part of the journey, head coach Craig Wallace said. Scotland are gearing up for the T20 World Cup qualifiers, which will take place in Nepal in January 2026. It's exciting to hear Kirstie is now available for selection for Scotland and we are delighted to welcome her back home. She's obviously a top-class player and an excellent person and having got to know her I'm looking forward to the opportunity to work with her. I think the most pleasing thing about her decision is that it shows the strength of our squad, that somebody of Kirstie's ability is wanting to come and challenge to compete for a place in the team. We have created a strong group and culture on and off the pitch, and it's fantastic that she wants to join it and be part of the journey, head coach Craig Wallace said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'm hoping like everyone else is that the team will be successful in Nepal and qualify for the World Cup in the summer, but this decision is not about the short term - hopefully for a number of years, I can be a part of Cricket Scotland as a player as well as supporting the younger players coming through. Whatever that looks like, I'm eager to get involved, Gordon said. Article Source: IANS
'Quite Hard To Get A Gauge On Him Yet, Ponting Assesses Green's International Career
The ICC Review: Former captain Ricky Ponting has offered his assessment of Cameron Green's young international career, calling the all-rounder one of Australias most intriguing long-term prospects, even as his Test returns continue to invite scrutiny. Green has had a below-par Ashes series, with Australia already having secured the series after the first three Tests. In three matches, he scored 76 runs and took only two wickets, though he had limited game time with the ball. Ponting acknowledged that, despite Greens growing experience, his overall impact in Test cricket remains difficult to quantify. Its actually quite hard to get a gauge on him yet as an international player. He averages under 30 in Australia now. His career averages just over 30, Ponting said on The ICC Review. Hes made two Test match hundreds in 30-odd Test matches. Hes had back surgery, and his bowling pace is probably not quite what it was 12 months ago, he said. Green has played 35 Tests since his debut against India in Adelaide five years ago, with the right-handed batter chipping in with 1641 runs at an average close to 33, while also grabbing 37 wickets. But there is a very complete package there if it all comes together. And weve seen him play some pretty remarkable innings. He made an incredible 100 in New Zealand last year. Hes got 100 in India as well, albeit on a very, very flat pitch, Ponting added. Green made his maiden Test century in Ahmedabad, scoring 114 after coming in in a tricky situation against India, while his best effort came a year later in March 2024, when he smashed an unbeaten 174* in Wellington to guide the Aussies to a big 172-run win. Beyond some individual performances, Ponting highlighted the value Green brings to the Australian dressing room, while identifying consistency of method as the key challenge ahead. Talking to the players, talking to the coaching staff, they absolutely love what he brings to the group, Ponting noted. The biggest challenge he has is, hes just got to find out the right way and right style for him to play, work out whats going to work for him, and then commit to that and stick to it for a long period of time. Ponting suggested that Greens tendency to constantly search for solutions can sometimes complicate the process and that offering straightforward advice would be preferable. Apparently, hes a very deep thinker about his own game and likes to tinker with things a lot. But if I had some advice for him, itd be just keep things as simple as you can, think about what youve done at domestic cricket and take your domestic game to the Test match and back it in for a while, he said. Apparently, hes a very deep thinker about his own game and likes to tinker with things a lot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score bc/vi Article Source: IANS
Kirstie Gordon commits international future to Scotland
Kirstie Gordon made her international debut for Scotland and then represented England, and now wants to help Scotland rise in the ranks in the women's game
'I'll Always Protect My Players As Much As I Can', Stokes Reacts To Noosa 'stag Do' Allegations
The England Cricket Board: Skipper Ben Stokes has come out in defense of his teammates after it was revealed that Englands mid-Ashes break in Noosa between the second and third Ashes Tests was allegedly a stag do, causing excessive drinking by some players. The England Cricket Board is currently investigating claims of the English teams drinking culture after a video of Ben Duckett went viral, appearing to show intoxication. Stokes has hit back at the viral social media post and stag do rumours, saying his main concern is the wellbeing of his teammates. How I handle this moment right now is the most important thing to me. The welfare of everyone in there and probably some certain individuals as well is the most important thing to me right now as England captain, Stokes told reporters at a press conference before the Boxing Day Test, as quoted by Fox Cricket. This kind of stuff is very, I dont know if close to me is the right wording, but something that I have first hand experience of how it can affect people. And as I said, my role as England captain is to protect my players as much as I possibly can. We have a goal still to try and achieve out here on this trip. Its not gone anywhere near to plan whatsoever, he said. Stokes continued, Looking after my players is one of the main things that I need to get out of this because we need to go out there and win two games of cricket. I know how this kind of stuff can affect people and as I said, I will always protect my players as much as I possibly can. Right here right now, that is my main job as England captain is to ensure that they know that they have my backing because the most important thing to me, sitting here right now, is a group of players who I can get into a best possible state to go out there and try and perform for this country and the remaining of this trip. I know how this kind of stuff can affect people and as I said, I will always protect my players as much as I possibly can. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I have a responsibility as captain out on the field to try and win games of cricket but in moments like these I have that other responsibility of making sure that I will always protect my players in a moment where I feel that is necessary, he further said. Article Source: IANS
ILT20: MI Emirates beat Gulf Giants by Eight Wickets
MI Emirates sealed their playoff berth after a comfortable eight-wicket win over the Gulf Giants at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. An impressive bowling performance, coupled with Nicholas Pooran and Muhammad Waseems unbeaten 140-run stand in just 89 balls, sealed their fourth straight win with 21 balls to spare. Chasing 142, MI Emirates were 58/2 in 10 overs, before Pooran and Waseem smashed 84 runs in the next 6.3 overs. Waseem carried the bat with 59 runs in 42 balls, hitting three fours and three sixes, while Pooran scored an unbeaten 69 in just 49 balls, smashing six sixes and three fours. For the Giants Moeen Alis 51 runs in 48 balls went in vain. In the second innings, Mark Adair set the tone when he trapped Jonny Bairstow LBW (0 off 3), before Azmatullah Omarzai removed Tom Banton (0 off 5) reducing MI Emirates to 2/2 within the first two overs. Pooran and Waseem rotated the strike effectively, finding the odd boundary. Pooran began accelerating post the 10th over and brought up his half-century in 43 balls with a boundary in the 14th over. After completing a 100-run partnership with Pooran in just 74 balls, Waseem then bagged his own half-century in just 38 balls, his first of the season. At the 15th over mark, MI Emirates needed 27 runs in 30 balls. The duo closed out the win with ease, with Pooran hitting back-to-back sixes in the 16th over to bring scores level before Waseem calmly saw the chase home. Earlier, Romario Shepherd made early inroads by removing James Vince (3 off 4) in the second over, before Rahmanullah Gurbaz (11 off 10) was bowled by Fazalhaq Farooqi an over later. Shepherd struck again in the fourth to dismiss Asif Khan (12 off 8), as MI Emirates kept the Giants to 36/3 at the end of the powerplay. MI Emirates continued to squeeze the Giants, with Arab Gul trapping Lorcan Tucker (13 off 13) LBW in the ninth over. Moeen Ali and Omarzai (14 off 19) struggled to lift the tempo as tidy spells from Gul, Shakib Al Hasan and Kieron Pollard ensured the Giants scored just 18 runs between overs seven and 10. Ali and Omarzai added momentum with a partnership of 40 runs in 34 balls, which was broken in the 15th over when Farooqi got Omarzai. Ali and Mayers then put up a 52-run stand off 35 balls. The acceleration came with 15 runs in the 16th over, followed by another 15 in the 18th. Ali brought up his half-century in the 19th over, and with Mayers unbeaten cameo of 28 runs in 18 balls, including four fours and a six, pushed the Giants to 141/6. Match Summary Also Read: Live Cricket Score MI Emirates beat Gulf Giants by eight wickets Gulf Giants 141/6 in 20 overs (Moeen Ali 51, Kyle Mayers 28 not out, Fazalhaq Farooqi 2 for 17, Romario Shepherd 2 for 36) MI Emirates 142/2 in 16.3 overs (Muhammad Waseem 59 not out, Nicholas Pooran 69 not out, Azmatullah Omarzai 1 for 20, Mark Adair 1 for 30) Player of the match: Muhammad Waseem
ODI World Cup: Indian opener Shafali Verma said her game has been central to her revival as a more assured and compact batter after she accepted flaws in her batting. Verma was awarded the Player of the Match award for guiding India to a seven-wicket victory in the second T20I match against Sri Lanka, scoring an unbeaten knock of 69 off 34 deliveries. Shafali also reflected on the period of inconsistency and technical issues that had earlier cost her a place in the squad ahead of the World Cup final. Cricket always teaches you things. Its important to accept your weaknesses. Thats the only way you can improve. The ball was holding a bit at the start, so I tried to play along the ground and take singles. They bowled well at the start. It was a good knockout, Shafali said after the second T20I against Sri Lanka at the ACA-VDCA Stadium in Visakhapatnam. She also credited head coach Amol Muzumdar for guiding her approach, especially in conditions where the ball was not coming on freely. The coach told me to play along the ground initially and then go for aerial shots. . I kept myself calm, tried to play along the ground, and the ball was coming on nicely. I know I can score runs if I play the ball on the ground, she added. Shafali made a dramatic return to the India squad for the ODI World Cup semifinals and final after Pratika Rawal suffered an injury and scored a match-winning half-century and claimed two wickets in the final against South Africa. Earlier on Tuesday, India chose to bowl and were briefly tested by Sri Lanka's skipper Chamari Athapaththu. She attacked from the start and found the boundary regularly in the PowerPlay. Unlike the first T20I, where she got out cheaply, Athapaththu appeared to be in good form. However, Sneh Rana's introduction changed the momentum. Replacing an unwell Deepti Sharma, Rana bowled with control and intelligence. She gave away just 11 runs in her four overs and dismissed Athapaththu, which slowed Sri Lankas progress. Earlier on Tuesday, India chose to bowl and were briefly tested by Sri Lanka's skipper Chamari Athapaththu. She attacked from the start and found the boundary regularly in the PowerPlay. Unlike the first T20I, where she got out cheaply, Athapaththu appeared to be in good form. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias chase began with a small setback when Smriti Mandhana was out for 16, but Shafali quickly took charge. She punished any short or loose deliveries, confidently attacking both spin and pace. Inoka Ranaweera and Shashini Gimhani faced the brunt of her assault, while Chamari Athapaththu was hit for a 4, 6, and 4 in the last PowerPlay over. Jemimah Rodrigues provided excellent support, scoring quickly against the spinners as India cruised to victory in the 12th over. Article Source: IANS
IGPL Finale: Aryan Tops Table At 9-under As Jeev Leads Legends Impressive Show With 7-under
IGPL Invitational Sri Lanka: Aryan Roopa Anand, playing the historic Royal Colombo Golf, for the first time, produced one of his best rounds as a professional with a 9-under 62 on the opening day of the IGPL Invitational Sri Lanka, the final event of the 2025 Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) Tour on Tuesday. The two-time All India amateur champion, Aryan, opened birdie-birdie and closed similarly, and had a total of nine birdies and an eagle against one bogey on each side of the Royal Colombo. But the man having the most fun seemed to be Indias best-known professional golfer ever, Jeev Milkha Singh, who was playing his first IGPL event. Jeev, a four-time winner on the DP World Tour and four times in Japan, shot 7-under, which included a run of five birdies in the last six holes to lie second. Lying third was local youngster Kaya Daluwatte, who shot 6-under 65. She was also the top woman in the field after the first day. The next best woman was IGPL Mumbai winner, Pranavi Urs, who tumbled from 5-under through 15 holes to 2-under with a bogey-double bogey-par finish over the last three holes. The 54-year-old Jeev was pleased not only with his score but also with the presence of so many young stars in the IGPL field, as several legends shared the stage with Gen Next of Indian golf. The current IGPL Order of Merit leader, Aman Raj, and six-time Asian Tour winner SSP Chawrasia were tied fourth at 4-under, while the 11-time Asian Tour winner, also a double winner at IGPL, Gaganjeet Bhullar, the highly consistent Sachin Baisoya, promising Veer Ganapathy, IGPL UAE winner, Karandeep Kochhar, and Harendra Gupta were in a five-way tie for sixth place. It was a very strong leaderboard on a low-scoring day when 10 players went four-under or better. I dont think there is a pro Tour like this anywhere. The IGPL is getting the legends of Indian golf to play in the same field as promising young stars, many of whom are still amateurs. This will help the young stars learn by just watching the seniors. Plus, we had some very good women players, said Jeev, who now divides his time between the senior Tours in Europe and Japan and some events on the Asian Tour. Jeev remarked. Jeevs group included Veer Ganapathy, son of former touring pro Rahul Ganapathy, while Jyotis son Zorarvar was in the group with Gaganjeet Bhullar, and Harjai played in the group that had Jyoti Randhawa. Among the legends, Jeev had the best score at 7-under, SSP Chawrasia shot 5-under, Gaganjeet Bhullar shot 4-under, and Jyoti Randhawa went 1-over 72. Among the young stars, Veer carded 4-under 67, Zoravar shot even par 71, and Harjai carded 3-over 74. I was quite relaxed today, and the putter was rolling well, so it turned out to be a pretty good score. I did shoot something like 6-under at Ahmedabad, and I wanted to go past it. When I was 7-under with two holes, one of the guys said, It will be great to finish birdie-birdie. And it happened, leader Aryan, who is still searching for his first pro win, said. Jeev, making his debut on the IGPL, was thrilled to play with a bunch of young stars in the same field. I have always wanted to play this historic course, but it never happened. It finally did as I played the Pro-Am with the legendary cricketer, Mahela Jayawardene, and it was great fun, and he plays very well. As for today, it was my first competitive round in Colombo. It was very hot, but I got used to it as I went along. After being two under for the first 12 holes, it was great to finish with five birdies in the last six holes, said Jeev, who also caught up with old buddies. I have played so much golf with Jyoti Randhawa and SSP Chawrasia. It was fun to be in the field with them again today. But the added joy was to play in a field which also included Jyotis son, Zoravar; my son, Harjai, and Veer Ganapathy, son of Rahul Ganapathy. Jeev was just 2-under for the first 12 holes. He was trying to get used to the heat in what was his first appearance in Colombo. Then Jeev found a different gear and birdied four in a row from the 13th to the 16th, missed a birdie on the 17th, and closed again with a birdie to make it five birdies in the last six holes. I have played so much golf with Jyoti Randhawa and SSP Chawrasia. It was fun to be in the field with them again today. But the added joy was to play in a field which also included Jyotis son, Zoravar; my son, Harjai, and Veer Ganapathy, son of Rahul Ganapathy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kaya, who has represented Sri Lanka at the Womens Amateur Asia-Pacific (WAAP), shot 6-under 65, which included a stunning run of six birdies in the last seven holes. She was also the top women's player in the field. It was great to play alongside two Olympians, Udayan Mane and SSP Chawrasia, who are both great players, and I learnt so much, just watching them, said the 16-year-old Kaya, who will be joining college golf in the US when she joins Pepperdine next year Article Source: IANS
Lennox Earns First Call-up; Santner, Henry, And Jamieson Return For T20 Tour Of India
The Black Caps Head Coach: New Zealand 'A' left-arm orthodox bowler Jayden Lennox has earned his first call-up to the Black Caps squad, as New Zealand Cricket named a balanced squad with rotating players for both the one-day and T20 series in India to be played next month. The NZC picked squads that are a mix of experienced while-ball experts like Devon Conway, Mitchell Santner, and Michael Bracewell, with debutants like Lennox and Kristian Clarke, as they search for a perfect squad for a series that will help the team prepare for the upcoming T20 World Cup. Lennox has been named in the ODI squad, alongside the uncapped Kristian Clarke, and emerging internationals Adi Ashok, Josh Clarkson, Nick Kelly, and the recent Test debutant, Michael Rae. The Black Caps Head Coach, Rob Walter, said hes pleased to see Lennoxs progression through the NZC high-performance system. Jayden has been an identified player of interest for some time and has some good New Zealand A experience under his belt. He's consistently been one of the top performers in white-ball cricket domestically for a number of seasons. Kyle Jamieson and Mitchell Santner are set to feature for New Zealand again, with Jamieson coming straight back into both the one-day and T20 sides, and Santner being named in the T20 side only, as part of his return-to-play plan as he recovers from his groin injury. Michael Bracewell will captain the side during the one-day series in Santners absence, surrounded by an experienced leadership group of Devon Conway, Daryl Mitchell, Will Young, and Henry Nicholls. Test captain Tom Latham and front-line seam bowler Matt Henry both miss the ODI series, with the former staying in New Zealand for the birth of his third child, and the latter continuing to rehab after his recent calf tear ahead of the T20 series and the ICC Mens T20 World Cup in February, New Zealand Cricket informed in a release on Tuesday. Nathan Smith (side), Blair Tickner (shoulder), and Mark Chapman (ankle) were not considered for selection for the ODI series as they continue with their respective return-to-play plans. Chapman is on track to play in the T20 series. Ben Sears has returned from his stint in Melbourne, but was not considered for selection in ODI cricket as he works through his return to play program. Sears is progressing well and is on track to be available for the Super Smash. Kane Williamson is unavailable for ODI selection due to commitments in the SA20 league. Mitch Hay will keep wicket for the ODI series, whereas Devon Conway will take the gloves for the T20Is. Jacob Duffy and Rachin Ravindra will both sit out the ODI series to allow them to rest after being involved in all cricket since the start of the home summer. New Zealand will play five T20Is immediately after the three ODIs in India, as part of their final preparation for the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup in February and March. The importance of the series ahead of the T20 World Cup is not lost on Head Coach Rob Walter. Playing in the sub-continent is obviously very different to what were used to in New Zealand, so any opportunity we can get to expose our guys to those conditions can only be a good thing, especially prior to a T20 World Cup in the subcontinent. Alongside Santner, Chapman and Henry are set to return to the T20 side after recovering from ankle and calf injuries, respectively. Batters Bevon Jacobs and Tim Robinson both come back into the T20 squad after producing some impressive performances for their respective domestic sides. Jacobs is averaging 54 across his seven most recent innings, including one century, and Robinson is averaging just over 60 across his last nine innings, including two centuries. James Neesham and Ish Sodhi also come back into the Black Caps squad, with Neesham having stints in the Nepal Premier League and ILT20 in recent weeks. Sodhi returns from domestic duties with Canterbury. Newly IPL-contracted players Jacob Duffy and Zak Foulkes have earned the nod after impressing throughout the home summer, with Foulkes set to experience T20 cricket in India for the first time. Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, Finn Allen, and Tim Seifert will be joining the squad in India as soon as their franchise commitments are completed. This will allow them to feature in the back end of the T20 series in India ahead of the T20 World Cup. The T20 World Cup Squad will be announced in mid-January. ODI Squad for India Michael Bracewell (c), Adi Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Will Young T20 Squad v India Michael Bracewell (c), Adi Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Devon Conway, Zak Foulkes, Mitch Hay, Kyle Jamieson, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Daryl Mitchell, Henry Nicholls, Glenn Phillips, Michael Rae, Will Young Also Read: Live Cricket Score Unavailable due to injury: Will ORourke (back), Blair Tickner (shoulder), Nathan Smith (side) Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: As A Bowling Unit, We Struggled To Adapt, Says Athapaththu After Seven-wicket Defeat
Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket: Sri Lanka Women skipper Chamari Athapaththu lamented about the batting woes of the visitors despite a good batting surface as they suffered their second straight loss in the five-match series against hosts India at Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket Stadium. Opener Shafali Verma delivered an impressive unbeaten 69 as India Women defeated Sri Lanka by a seven-wicket victory, finishing the match with 49 balls remaining to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match T20I series. Choosing to bowl first, India struck quickly and kept Sri Lanka from gaining any momentum. Sri Lanka improved slightly from their 121 in the first T20I. Kranti Gaud continued her good form by taking down Vishmi Gunaratne for 1 in the first over, caught off the follow-through. Although Arundathi Reddy let a few runs slip early on, the Indian bowlers applied enough pressure to keep Sri Lanka from breaking free. Sri Lanka managed to score 39 runs in the Power-play but faced difficulties, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu as their main contributor. Athapaththu hit two sixes in her 31 off 24 balls before falling to Sneh Rana, the only change in the lineup for the second T20I due to Deepti Sharma's absence because of a fever. We had a good Power-play, but unfortunately, we lost 2 wickets, including myself included. India bowled according to their plans. The batters always try to play horizontal shots, which is not their strength. We have to improve. We have to play the middle and death overs well. We need to go for boundaries rather than a rotating strike. As a bowling unit, we struggled to adapt. It's too hard to spin. We need 150+ runs to defend. This wicket is really good for batting. With the dew coming in, it's not easy to bowl. We need runs to play with, Athapaththu said after the match. Sri Lanka managed to score 39 runs in the Power-play but faced difficulties, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu as their main contributor. Athapaththu hit two sixes in her 31 off 24 balls before falling to Sneh Rana, the only change in the lineup for the second T20I due to Deepti Sharma's absence because of a fever. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In response, Shafali Verma led Indias chase with an impressive unbeaten 69 off 34 balls. She contributed 29 runs alongside Smriti Mandhana, who scored 14 off 11. Jemimah Rodrigues added 26 off 15 balls. India sped to 113 in the first 10 overs and completed the chase at 129 for 3 in 11.5 overs, with Richa Ghosh hitting the winning run. Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: Shafali, Charani Star As India Thrash Sri Lanka Women By Seven Wickets
Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket: Opener Shafali Verma delivered an impressive unbeaten 69 as India Women tasted a strong seven-wicket victory over Sri Lanka Women, finishing the match with 49 balls remaining at the Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACA VDCA Cricket Stadium to take a 2-0 lead in the five-match T20I series. India's bowlers, especially Shree Charani, set a solid foundation before Shafali completed the chase in style. Choosing to bowl first, India struck quickly and kept Sri Lanka from gaining any momentum. They took wickets consistently, limiting the visitors to 128 for 9 in their 20 overs. Sri Lanka improved slightly from their 121 in the first T20I. Kranti Gaud continued her good form by taking down Vishmi Gunaratne for 1 in the first over, caught off the follow-through. Although Arundathi Reddy let a few runs slip early on, the Indian bowlers applied enough pressure to keep Sri Lanka from breaking free. Sri Lanka managed to score 39 runs in the Power-play but faced difficulties, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu as their main contributor. Athapaththu hit two sixes in her 31 off 24 balls before falling to Sneh Rana, the only change in the lineup for the second T20I due to Deepti Sharma's absence because of a fever. Hasini Perera and Harshitha Samarawickrama stabilised the innings by rotating the strike, bringing Sri Lanka to 66 for 2 by the halfway point. As the field opened up, Perera struggled to find the boundary and was eventually out for 22 off 28 balls, dismissed by Shree Charani in the 13th over, ending their 44-run partnership. Harshitha appeared confident during her knock and scored 33 before being run out in the 17th over. Sri Lanka could not maintain their pace at the end, losing wickets rapidly. Nilakshi de Silva added just two runs before being dismissed by Vaishnavi Sharma, who took her first T20I wicket, as Sri Lanka finished at 128 for 9. Shree Charani (2/23) and Vaishnavi Sharma (2-32) were the top bowlers, with Kranti Gaud (1-21) and Sneh Rana (1-11) each taking one wicket. In response, Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana started strong for India, putting together 29 runs before Mandhana was out for 14 off 11 balls. Jemimah Rodrigues took control next, hitting four fours and a six in her 26 off 15 balls before being caught at long off by Kawya Kavindi. India raced to 113 in the first 10 overs, their highest tally after the first 10 in womens T20Is, surpassing the previous record of 111 against Malaysia Women at Hangzhou during the 2023 Asian Games. Shafali continued her onslaught after the Power-play, reaching her 12th T20I fifty off just 27 balls. She ended her innings unbeaten on 69 off 34 balls, including 11 fours and a six. Harmanpreet Kaur scored 10 off 12 balls before being bowled by Malki Madara when the score was tied, and Richa Ghosh then hit the winning run in the 12th over, completing the chase at 129 for 3 in 11.5 overs. This victory marked Indias second-largest win over Sri Lanka in womens T20Is in terms of balls left, only behind the 69-ball win in Sylhet in 2022. The series now moves to Thiruvananthapuram for the third T20I on Friday, December 26. Shafali continued her onslaught after the Power-play, reaching her 12th T20I fifty off just 27 balls. She ended her innings unbeaten on 69 off 34 balls, including 11 fours and a six. Harmanpreet Kaur scored 10 off 12 balls before being bowled by Malki Madara when the score was tied, and Richa Ghosh then hit the winning run in the 12th over, completing the chase at 129 for 3 in 11.5 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka Women 128/9 in 20 overs (Harshitha Samarawickrama 33, Chamari Athapaththu 32; Shree Charani 2-23, Vaishnavi Sharma 2-32) lost to India Women 129/3 in 11.5 overs (Shafali Verma 69 not out, Jemimah Rodrigues 26; Kavisha Dilhari 1-15) by seven wickets. Article Source: IANS
Markram Embraces Fresh Challenge At Durban's Super Giants Ahead Of New SA20 Season
World Test Championship Final: After three successful seasons at Sunrisers Eastern Cape (SEC), South African star Aiden Markram said he is looking forward to embracing a new challenge of captaining Durban's Super Giants (DSG) in Season 4 of SA20, starting on December 26. In Markram, DSG have acquired the league's most successful captain and the only one to have led South Africa to a Mens Cricket World Cup final. Markram steered the SEC to three consecutive finals and has demonstrated a proven ability to extract peak performances from his players. Speaking to IANS in the JioStar Press Room ahead of SA20 Season 4, Markram, the right-handed opener, outlined his approach to leading a new franchise, particularly with the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup to come immediately after the end of the competition. New team, obviously exciting. You don't want to put too many expectations and additional pressures on players. I think it's a month and a time of year in South Africa that all the players thoroughly enjoy, and that should be sort of the way you go about things, Markram said. As sportsmen, naturally, no one likes losing, and everybody wants to win, and you let that natural competitiveness come out on the field. But off the field and in between games, I think it's really important that guys have a really fun time in South Africa and enjoy what South Africa has to offer. Naturally, on the field, you try to deliver a winning performance and get competitive, he added. The tournament comes at a time when South African cricket has experienced a notable resurgence in men's ICC events making the semi-finals of the 2023 ODI World Cup, becoming runners-up in the 2024 T20 World Cup, and winning the 2025 World Test Championship Final. League commissioner and former South African skipper Graeme Smith credited the players for their recent success while highlighting SA20's role in developing talent. Credit needs to go to the players and the national team for their performance over the last couple of years. Seeing the squad depth and the performances they've put in has been a proud thing to watch and be a part of, so credit must go to them. Our role at SA20 from the beginning, we've always said that we want to put 50-60 players on the global map every year, expose them to the best possible cricket in front of big crowds, big production, and start to really help develop the player pool around the national teams. Credit needs to go to the players and the national team for their performance over the last couple of years. Seeing the squad depth and the performances they've put in has been a proud thing to watch and be a part of, so credit must go to them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch all the action from SA20 Season 4, December 26 2025 - January 25 2026, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: Charani, Vaishnavi Claim Two Each As India Restrict Sri Lanka To 128/9
Rajasekhara Reddy ACA: Superb spells by spinners N. Shree Charani (2-23) and Vaishnavi Sharma (2-32) helped India reduce Sri Lanka Women to 128/9 in 20 overs at the Dr. Y. S. Rajasekhara Reddy ACAVDCA Cricket Stadium in Visakhapatnam on Tuesday. Having opted to bowl first, the hosts struck early and maintained pressure throughout the innings, picking up wickets at regular intervals. Sri Lanka had managed 121 in the first T20I and showed only marginal improvement this time with a total of 128. Sri Lanka suffered an early setback in the very first over as Kranti Gaud, living up to her reputation, removed Vishmi Gunaratne for 1, caught on the follow-through. Arundathi Reddy bowled a few loose deliveries, leaking runs, but the pressure kept on building on the visitors, who struggled to build momentum against a disciplined Indian bowling attack. Despite adding 39 runs in the first six overs, Sri Lanka found themselves in trouble once again, with skipper Chamari Athapaththu scoring the bulk of the runs. Athapaththu struck two sixes in her 31 off 24 balls before being dismissed by Sneh Rana, the only change in either side for the second T20I after Deepti Sharma missed out due to a fever. India had earlier won the toss and elected to bowl again. Harshitha Samarawickrama walked in at No. 3 and, along with Perera, steadied the innings. The pair rotated the strike well as Sri Lanka reached 66 for 2 at the halfway mark. However, with the field spread out, Perera struggled to find the boundary. He was eventually out for 22 off 28 balls by Shree Charani in the 13th over, which ended a 44-run partnership. Harshitha looked strong and scored 33 before getting run out in the 17th over. Sri Lanka could not build momentum in the final stages. Nilakshi de Silva had a short stay, scoring 2 before being dismissed by Vaishnavi Sharma, who took her first T20I wicket. A late flurry of wickets meant the visitors finished their innings at 128 for 9. For India, Shree Charani (2/23) and Vaishnavi Sharma (2/32) took two wickets each, while Kranti Gaud (1/21) and Sneh Rana (1/11) added one each. Harshitha Samarawickrama walked in at No. 3 and, along with Perera, steadied the innings. The pair rotated the strike well as Sri Lanka reached 66 for 2 at the halfway mark. However, with the field spread out, Perera struggled to find the boundary. He was eventually out for 22 off 28 balls by Shree Charani in the 13th over, which ended a 44-run partnership. Harshitha looked strong and scored 33 before getting run out in the 17th over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka-W 128/9 in 20 overs (Harshitha Samarawickrama 33, Chamari Athapaththu 32; Shree Charani 2-23, Vaishnavi Sharma 2-32) against India Article Source: IANS
Nagesh Trophy: CAB Rajasthan, CAB Kerala Win In League Matches
National T20 Cricket Tournament: Rajasthan delivered a dominant all-round performance to register a convincing 10-wicket victory over Himachal in a league match of the 8th Edition of the Nagesh Trophy Mens National T20 Cricket Tournament for the Blind, held at the Railway Sports Ground, Hubli on Tuesday. After winning the toss, Rajasthan opted to field and produced a disciplined bowling effort to restrict Himachal to 164/8 in 20 overs. Vijay Kumar anchored the innings for Himachal with a brisk 104 runs, while BR Kaushal contributed 22 runs. Despite the resistance from Vijay Kumar, regular strikes by the Rajasthan bowlers prevented Himachal from building sustained momentum. Rajasthan skipper Lalit Meena (B1) led from the front with the ball, picking up two wickets, well supported by Murari Lal (B2). In reply, Rajasthan showcased complete batting dominance. Openers Nikhil Maharshi and Rohitash made light work of the chase, remaining unbeaten and guiding the team to victory in just 14.4 overs. Nikhil Maharshi scored a fluent 65 off 46 balls while Rohitash smashed an aggressive 86 off 47 balls. Their explosive partnership ensured a swift finish without the loss of a wicket. For his match-winning knock and impactful all-round contribution, Nikhil Maharshi (CAB Rajasthan) was deservedly adjudged the Player of the Match. Kerala secured an emphatic win Kerala continued the momentum with a commanding performance, registering a comprehensive nine-wicket win over Maharashtra in another league match of the tournament. After winning the toss, Maharashtra opted to bat but were kept under tight control by a disciplined Kerala bowling attack. Maharashtra were bowled out for 109 in 16 overs, with Anil Belsare (B3) top-scoring with 31 runs, while Swapnil Dilip Wagh contributed 28 runs off 22 balls. Keralas bowlers shared the spoils effectively, led by Sayanth K.B. (B1) and Jayakrishnan, who claimed two wickets each, supported well by Sachin (B2) and Snehith (B2). After winning the toss, Maharashtra opted to bat but were kept under tight control by a disciplined Kerala bowling attack. Maharashtra were bowled out for 109 in 16 overs, with Anil Belsare (B3) top-scoring with 31 runs, while Swapnil Dilip Wagh contributed 28 runs off 22 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For his impactful all-round performance, Sayanth K.B. (B1) was adjudged the Player of the Match. Article Source: IANS
ECB investigating Ben Duckett video amid drinking allegations
Recording posted on X appears to show England batter worse for wear during team's break in Noosa
India bowl against Sri Lanka but Deepti ruled out with mild fever
Sneh Rana replaced Deepti, while Sri Lanka were unchanged for the second T20I
Thomas Rew to lead England at Under-19s World Cup
Highly rated wicketkeeper-batter returns after missing Caribbean tour while with England Lions
Jemimah Rodrigues appointed Delhi Capitals captain ahead of WPL 2026
She replaces Meg Lanning in the role, who was not retained by DC this season
Tom Curran and Sam Harper power Stars past Strikers
Curran, who got 3 for 35, struck twice in the second over as Stars restricted Strikers to 155
DDCA Vice President Shikha Kumar: The Delhi & District Cricket Association (DDCA) on Tuesday held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) for the 202526 term at its registered office at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, Ferozeshah Kotla Ground in New Delhi. The meeting focused on several essential governance matters, which were discussed and approved by the members. As part of the event, the DDCA also expressed gratitude by presenting 20 motorcycles to the Delhi Police, Central District, in recognition of their continued support during cricket events hosted at the venue. During the AGM, a special resolution was passed to appoint Honble Justice M.M. Kumar, former Chief Justice of the Jammu & Kashmir High Court, as the Ombudsman and Ethics Officer of the Association. Additionally, four regular agenda items were discussed and approved by an overwhelming majority. These included the adoption of the audited financial statements for 2025 and the reappointment of the Association's Chartered Accountants, alongside other statutory matters. Speaking on the proceedings of the AGM, DDCA President Rohan Jaitley said, The Annual General Meeting is central to the democratic functioning and governance framework of the DDCA. The decisions taken today, including the appointment of the Ombudsman-cum-Ethics Officer, reflect our commitment to transparency, accountability, and robust institutional processes. Later in the day, the DDCA officially transferred 20 motorcycles to the Delhi Police, Central District, recognising their vital role in maintaining safety, managing crowds, and ensuring smooth operations during national and international cricket matches held at the Arun Jaitley Stadium throughout the year. Thanking the Delhi Police, Jaitley added, The successful conduct of major cricketing events in Delhi is made possible through close coordination with the Delhi Police. Their professionalism and timely assistance are vital to maintaining safety and order during matchdays. This initiative is a small token of our appreciation and a step towards strengthening operational efficiency on the ground. Rishi Kumar Singh, Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police, accepted the motorcycles on behalf of the Delhi Police, Central District. He expressed gratitude and mentioned that the additional vehicles would enhance mobility and support better law and order management during sporting events and everyday police work. Thanking the Delhi Police, Jaitley added, The successful conduct of major cricketing events in Delhi is made possible through close coordination with the Delhi Police. Their professionalism and timely assistance are vital to maintaining safety and order during matchdays. This initiative is a small token of our appreciation and a step towards strengthening operational efficiency on the ground. Also Read: Live Cricket Score These dual initiatives highlight the DDCA's commitment to robust governance and fostering meaningful institutional partnerships, all geared towards ensuring the smooth and successful hosting of cricket events in the national capital. Article Source: IANS
Thomas Rew Named Captain As England Names U19 World Cup Squad
U19 World Cup: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has announced a 15-member squad for the upcoming Mens U19 World Cup, set to be hosted by Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15, 2026. Somerset wicketkeeper-batter Thomas Rew, who recently took part in the England Lions tour of Australia, will lead the team as captain for the upcoming ICC Under-19 Men's Cricket World Cup. Nottinghamshire all-rounder Farhan Ahmed, who served as captain in Rews absence during the seven-match Youth ODI series against West Indies in Grenada, continues to hold a leadership position as vice-captain. Uncapped Leicestershire left-arm spinner Ali Farooq has received his first selection for the Young Lions. England Men U19s Head Coach, Mike Yardy, in an ECB statement, said, This is an amazing opportunity for the players we have selected to not only wear an England shirt at a World Cup but also to go out and try and do something special. We have a balanced squad with a core group of players who already have county experience and who have developed a camaraderie while playing together for the U19s that will serve them well during the tournament. I really want the players to enjoy the opportunity to play at a World Cup, in a beautiful country like Zimbabwe, and to embrace the chance to compete against different countries and show their quality. The English side will be located in Zimbabwe and is placed in Group C of the 16-team tournament. They will start their campaign with a match against Pakistan in Harare on Friday, January 16, followed by games against co-hosts Zimbabwe and Scotland on January 18 and 21. The three leading nations from each of the four groups will advance to the Super Six stage. The final match is scheduled to take place at Harare Sports Club on Friday, February 6. The English side will be located in Zimbabwe and is placed in Group C of the 16-team tournament. They will start their campaign with a match against Pakistan in Harare on Friday, January 16, followed by games against co-hosts Zimbabwe and Scotland on January 18 and 21. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Thomas Rew (c), Farhan Ahmed, Ralphie Albert, Ben Dawkins, Caleb Falconer, Ali Farooq, Alex French, Alex Green, Luke Hands, Manny Lumsden, Ben Mayes, James Minto, Isaac Mohammed, Joe Moores, Sebastian Morgan. Article Source: IANS
Sarfaraz to Pakistan's U-19s after beating India: 'Celebrate but with decorum'
In a video from the Asia Cup final that went viral, Pakistan's mentor was heard telling his players not to be uncivil even if India's players crossed lines
Deepti becomes No. 1 T20I bowler; Wolvaardt tops ODI batting charts
Jemimah Rodrigues jumped up to No. 9 among T20I batters after match-winning 69* against SL
All-format Ambition A Driving Force Behind Karnataka's Run Machine Smaran Ravichandran
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Smaran Ravichandran has never been interested in choosing between formats. For Smaran, 22, the goal has always been to be a batter who excels in all three formats of the game. The goal right from the beginning when I started playing was to focus on all three formats and to become an all-format player for the country has always been my goal. All my work ethics and all the preparation that goes in during the off-season goes into all the three formats and not just one particular format. Yes, I would lay emphasis more on the red-ball aspect in order to play Tests for the country. But I think it's equally important to focus on the other two formats as well. As I said, my goal has always been to represent the country in all three formats. So I think even now my preparation and everything that I do will go into getting my team through across all three formats, Smaran told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of the start of Vijay Hazare Trophy, where Karnataka enter as defending champions. It's an ambitious declaration, considering playing all three formats as a batter is a rarity due to hectic scheduling. But then its backed by numbers that suggest Smaran is literally walking the talk. From having a forgettable start to his first-class career, Smaran has quickly become one of the closely followed batters in Indian cricket, due to his ability to adjust seamlessly between formats. His arrival into public memory came in last seasons Vijay Hazare Trophy, amassing 432 runs, including a match-winning century in the final. Then he ended the last Ranji season with scores of 203, 35 & 133 not out and had scores of 77 & 10, 3, 220 not out, 54 & 4 and 227 not out. In that Vijay Hazare Trophy final against Vidarbha in Vadodara, Karnataka were struggling early on a pitch offering conditions suitable for batting. But Smaran, playing in his first senior final for the state, recognised an opportunity to do something special. We were three down for 60-65 odd runs (67/3). As I recollect, the wicket was good to bat and just needed one partnership to get the team through. Me and (KL) Shrijith (who made 78) got a really big partnership to take it forward from there. With Abhinav (Manohar) coming in at the end and giving us those hits got us to a very good score of 350 or 348 if I'm not wrong. Lifting the trophy for Karnataka has always been the dream. I'm glad that we did it and now heading into this Vijay Hazare Trophy, obviously we are the defending champions and hopefully we can get another title home, he added. There's no hesitation when Smaran says the 101 that final stands at the top of his list of best knocks in his career so far. Its not just for the runs but for what it represented - Karnataka's first domestic trophy in five years and his own arrival on the big stage. His maiden first-class century, scored at his home ground M Chinnaswamy Stadium, comes a close second. It came in his sixth game after a lean opening phase, making the breakthrough all that sweet. Smaran goes into the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy on the back of amassing 319 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 158.70 for Karnataka in the recently concluded Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, though the team failed to qualify for the knockouts. With a much longer break in hand, Smaran had time in hand to prepare for switching from 20-over cricket to 50-over format. After coming back to a chilly Bengaluru, Smaran had a weeks preparation to work on Vijay Hazare Trophy preparation with his childhood coach Syed Zabiulla, before playing a few practice games within the states set-up. When not doing anything around cricket, Smaran enjoys playing paddle and catching up on all kinds of movies in Hindi, English and Kannada, but crime thrillers is his go-to genre to watch. But the transition from red-ball to white-ball wasn't straightforward, he admits. In the Ranji Trophy, emphasis is on occupying the crease for extended periods. T20 cricket demands explosive bursts and immediate gear changes, as well as 3-4 days of focus on quality power hitting. But moving from T20 to 50-over cricket? That's more manageable for Smaran. In Ranji Trophy, you focus on playing the entire day or one and a half days. The focus is to stay at the crease. But in T20s, it's about those short bursts of runs and intensity is higher, and you straight away switch into different gears. So that was challenging. Heading into Vijay Hazare, the switch is going to be easier compared from when we switched to Ranji Trophy to Mushtaq Ali because it's still the white-ball format. Obviously, in the 50-over format, you have that extra time of settling down and taking your time out there in the middle, unlike the T20 format. Smaran's brief stint with Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) in this years IPL provided him with direct access to some of T20 cricket's most destructive players. Though he wasnt a like for like replacement for Adam Zampa, Smaran conceded going from watching IPL matches on television to sharing a dressing room with a plethora of international stars was surreal. Though his stint prematurely due to an injury picked after tripping over advertising hoarding while taking a catch in the practice, the conversations he had with Heinrich Klaasen and Ishan Kishan were very precious for Smaran, who stands just shy of six feet, and his long levers giving him a natural ability to clear the boundary. His strength lies square of the wicket - a result of picking lengths sharply and assured back-foot play. I spoke to Klaasen and I had conversations with Ishan as well regarding their aspects of and how they approach the game in the T20 format. A lot of valuable inputs came from Klaasen regarding how he stays still and how he keeps a solid base while hitting. Just conversations like that to inculcate into my game so that I can keep getting better at it, he said. Those insights are now woven into his own game, as he continues to develop the power-hitting skills required in modern white-ball cricket. As someone who grew up admiring Kumar Sangakkara and Michael Hussey - two left-handers renowned for their adaptability across formats - Smaran understands what true all-format success looks like. He recalls watching Sangakkara's 287 against South Africa, coming in a record 684-run stand with Mahela Jayawardene against Sri Lanka, leaving him in awe of the patience and concentration required to bat for long periods in Tests. That ability to occupy the crease through extended passages of play is something Smaran knows he must continue developing. There are still phases of the game where you feel during a Test game to go with your shots and that is something that I still have to work on But yes, a big aspect of Test cricket goes to patience, but that is still a work in progress and I just try to bat long phases of the game without losing concentration. I mean it's easy to say but to get the job done is really hard but that is something that I have to keep in mind, he said. While his cricket career accelerates, Ravichandran hasn't abandoned his academics. He's currently pursuing an MBA in finance at Ramaiah University in Bangalore, after completing his B.Com degree. It's a balance his parents have always insisted upon. Right from the beginning they have been supportive of my journey and they have really allowed me to give me all the freedom to go ahead and pursue it side to side because with the competition in the country there is no guarantee with sport in general in the country, he says. Are his parents satisfied with his progress in cricket? Well, not yet. The answer is no because there is still a long way to go and my mom asked me why didn't you get runs in the last two games of the Mushtaq Ali trophy. So thats something that always keeps me going and that is the motivation that my mom keeps giving me. Smarans cricketing journey ironically began from a decision made by his mother she need an activity to keep her restless son engaged and more importantly, be outside home. The solution arrived when a cricket coaching academy opened in the same residential layout where Smarans family still lives. His mother enrolled him there, hoping it would burn off some of that restless energy. I always had an interest towards cricket, but didn't know the facets of the game and how professional cricket worked. But I always had an interest towards batting and cricket in general. That's when I met my coach and things were gradually taken forward. What began as a parenting strategy has become the foundation of a promising cricket career. In his early years, Smaran was an all-rounder who bowled off-spin, though its frequency has gone down. I still bowl off-spin, but now I bowl a lot less. But till I was about 14 or 15, I played as an all-rounder, but then after a while when I grew in height, I didn't have that much of accuracy in my off-spin. But that is something that I still have to work on because the way the game is growing, having 2 or 3 skills is equally important. So that is something that I want to work on and I'm going to do it. Smaran represented Karnataka at every level, making his under-19 debut at just 15 while also piling up runs in under-16 cricket. That early success fuelled a specific ambition: representing India at the 2022 Under-19 World Cup. Then Covid-19 pandemic arrived, and with it, the suspension of cricket worldwide. When the game restarted, Smaran couldnt make the cut for the mega event which India won. That was something that I really had my mind on fulfilling. My main goal was to represent India at the under-19 World Cup but that didn't happen. But it's all part and parcel of the game. The game always has its ups and downs. After that, I realized that representing Karnataka at the senior level and playing Ranji Trophy for the state will be my biggest goal, he said with his tone being polite rather than bitter. It was a recalibration rather than a setback and swiftly paved the way for Smaran to break into the senior Karnataka team. I am glad that I got to make my debut last year and I am looking to take it forward from there. Again, the main goal is to still win a lot of tournaments with Karnataka and whichever team that I play for. For Smaran, personal milestones matter less than collective success. Growing up watching Vinay Kumar-led Karnataka claim back-to-back Ranji Trophy titles and the trebles in 2013/14 and 2014/15 instilled in him a clear sense of what the state expects from the current crop. It was a recalibration rather than a setback and swiftly paved the way for Smaran to break into the senior Karnataka team. I am glad that I got to make my debut last year and I am looking to take it forward from there. Again, the main goal is to still win a lot of tournaments with Karnataka and whichever team that I play for. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hopefully we can do in the upcoming years as well as in the season that we're in now - we can win both the trophies and bring it back home. Definitely that's the goal, irrespective of whether I'm on top of the runs or not, I think as long as we get the trophy back home, that itself is the cherry on the cake, he signed off. Article Source: IANS
All Vijay Hazare Trophy Matches In Bengaluru Moved From Chinnaswamy To BCCI CoE
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar: All Vijay Hazare Trophy matches that were set to take place at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium have been relocated to the BCCI Centre of Excellence, due to a directive from the Karnataka government citing security issues. All Vijay Hazare Trophy matches scheduled to be held at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium will now happen at the BCCI CoE. Its a decision which was taken earlier in the day due to security reasons, as said by the state government, a DDCA official told IANS on Tuesday. The official further said that both participating teams for the opening game had been notified, and their pre-match training session is now set to take place at the BCCI CoE. The Delhi team has been told about it and their pre-match practice against Andhra will now happen at CoE, the official added. Meanwhile, all the Vijay Hazare matches in Bengaluru will be held without spectators. The Bengaluru police have assured a strong security presence around the Aerospace Park, where CoE is located. Karnataka Police have refused permission for the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd-control concerns. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who identified critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. On Monday, a committee constituted by the Karnataka government, comprising officials from the police, public works and fire safety departments, inspected the Chinnaswamy Stadium and submitted a report. The Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had already issued a 17-point advisory outlining mandatory safety measures. The committee verified whether these points had been complied with and submitted its findings to the government. On Monday, a committee constituted by the Karnataka government, comprising officials from the police, public works and fire safety departments, inspected the Chinnaswamy Stadium and submitted a report. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The KSCA had earlier expressed confidence in staging matches featuring Kohli and Pant at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Article Source: IANS
Formula 1 2025 Season turns out to be pivotal year for Indian motorsport
The Indian market's link to F1 is more robust than ever. Record-breaking viewership confirms India's vital role in the sport's worldwide strategy. This growth is supported by extending FanCode's exclusive broadcast deal through 2028, allowing Indian fans to stay connected to the action as local drivers gear up for the 2026 world stage.
Indonesia's Gede Priandana becomes first to pick five wickets in an over in T20Is
Gede Priandana, the right-arm quick, recorded the feat in the first T20I against Cambodia in Bali on Tuesday
Karnataka Police Deny Permission For Vijay Hazare Trophy Match At Chinnaswamy Stadium
Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar: Karnataka Police have denied permission for the Vijay Hazare Trophy match between Delhi and Andhra Pradesh at Chinnaswamy Stadium, citing serious safety and crowd control concerns. The decision was taken after a thorough inspection by Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar, officials from the Greater Bengaluru Authority, and the Fire Department, who raised critical gaps in venue infrastructure and emergency preparedness. Bengaluru Police Commissioner Seemant Kumar Singh made the statement in this regard on Tuesday, while addressing media persons. The committee had gone to the stadium on Monday, on the instructions of the Home Department. Officers from various departments, including fire, Bengaluru Electricity Supply Company (Bescom), Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and police, had inspected the stadium. As per the report from the officers, permission has not been granted for the match on Wednesday at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. The committee has also given a detailed report, Commissioner Singh stated. The Bengaluru City Police Commissioner had already issued a 17-point advisory outlining mandatory safety measures. The committee verified whether these points have been complied with and submitted its findings to the government. Police sources stated the stadium gates were too narrow to handle large crowds, especially with Virat Kohli expected to attend. Sources further revealed that in a last-ditch effort, Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) President Venkatesh Prasad met with state Home Minister G. Parameshwara, pleading for an exception, but authorities stood firm. Parameshwara announced on Monday that a committee was formed to inspect and assess whether the Chinnaswamy Stadium is fit to host the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match. The minister chaired a meeting at the Vidhana Soudha with officials from the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) and senior police officers to discuss arrangements for the upcoming match. Parameshwara announced on Monday that a committee was formed to inspect and assess whether the Chinnaswamy Stadium is fit to host the Vijay Hazare Trophy cricket match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Notably, 11 people were killed in a stampede near the Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru during the Royal Challengers Bengaluru's (RCB) victory celebrations on June 4. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: Australia vice-captain Tahlia McGrath has candidly acknowledged she is navigating the most challenging stretch of her international career, conceding a loss of confidence following a disappointing World Cup campaign. For the first time in eight years, Australia finished a global tournament without lifting either the ODI or T20 World Cup trophy, bowing out of last months ODI World Cup in the semi-finals against eventual champions India. The team will next regroup in February for a home multi-format series against India, before turning attention to the T20 World Cup in England in June. McGraths personal journey has mirrored the teams challenges. The 30-year-old endured a lean tournament, managing just 69 runs at an average of 13.75 in a competition where her opportunities with both bat and ball were limited. Reflecting on that period, she admitted the toll it took. Cricket's a pretty brutal game, and it's very much based around confidence. And when it's not going your way, the world gets pretty big on you. I definitely underperformed and felt the pressure a bit, McGrath was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo. Asked whether this represented the toughest phase of her career, McGrath did not shy away from the assessment. Probably. I think you add captaincy into that, you add time away from home. And, obviously, when you lose a World Cup, it's pretty hard to get over as well. It's been a challenging time. As much as I was doing everything possible to get us playing some finals cricket (in the WBBL), I was hanging out for a bit of a break, she said. Since 2022, McGrath has frequently deputised for Alyssa Healy, leading Australia on 15 occasions. Alongside Ashleigh Gardner, she is widely regarded as a leading contender to take over the captaincy once Healy steps aside. Yet McGraths openness about her form struggles highlights a player reassessing both her role and readiness. In a move reflecting that need for reset, McGrath chose not to nominate for next months Womens Premier League in India. Instead, she has opted for time at home with South Australia ahead of the upcoming international schedule. Since 2022, McGrath has frequently deputised for Alyssa Healy, leading Australia on 15 occasions. Alongside Ashleigh Gardner, she is widely regarded as a leading contender to take over the captaincy once Healy steps aside. Yet McGraths openness about her form struggles highlights a player reassessing both her role and readiness. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While she remains committed to the teams needs, McGrath has not ruled out a return to those positions. I'm a very team-first person and love being in the XI and contributing. I haven't quite nailed that No.7 spot, so I probably need to go away and do a bit of work on that and make that my own first of all. Then once I can do that, try and get myself up the order, she added. Article Source: IANS
Delhi Vs Andhra Vijay Hazare Trophy Match To Be Held Behind Closed Doors: Report
Andhra Vijay Hazare Trophy: As the Indian cricket star Virat Kohli is expected to make a comeback to domestic cricket, targeting the Vijay Hazare Trophy (VHT) 2025-26 for Delhi, but fans will not get a chance to witness the batting stalwart playing, as Delhis first-round match against Andhra at M Chinnaswamy Stadium will be held behind closed doors. As per the ESPNcricinfo report, the Karnataka government is set to issue an order to the KSCA to stage matches behind closed doors, with the BCCI's Centre of Excellence to be a back-up venue in case police permission isn't forthcoming for matches at the Chinnaswamy. The KSCA previously suggested opening two stands to the public, with a capacity of 2000-3000 spectators if fully utilised. However, the government strongly opposed this plan, citing potential security and compliance issues, while work on resolving these concerns is still in progress. The state government aims to avoid chaos around the venue during the holiday season, considering the prominence of the players involved. The availability of Kohli and Rishabh Pant for the first two matches previously led the KSCA to shift the venue from Alur to Chinnaswamy to address logistical issues. The BCCIs Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru has become a vital hub for Indian cricket, providing top-tier infrastructure and facilities focused on developing players. Hosting numerous domestic matches creates an excellent environment for both young and seasoned players to hone their skills. Should Delhis matches be held at the CoE, it will be Kohlis first competitive appearance there, making it a memorable experience for him and his teammates. The state government aims to avoid chaos around the venue during the holiday season, considering the prominence of the players involved. The availability of Kohli and Rishabh Pant for the first two matches previously led the KSCA to shift the venue from Alur to Chinnaswamy to address logistical issues. Also Read: Live Cricket Score According to BCCI rules, centrally contracted players must participate in domestic tournaments when they are not on international duty. In line with this requirement, Kohli will play in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, bringing valuable experience and leadership to the Delhi team. Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant will lead the team as captain during the tournament, while Kohli will serve in a senior role within the squad. Article Source: IANS
Australia prepare for life without 'shattered' Nathan Lyon
It'll be pretty long, Australia coach Andrew McDonald says of Nathan Lyon's road back after veteran offspinner undergoes hamstring surgery
Sharjah Warriorz survive low-scoring thriller to beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders
Sharjah Warriorz held their nerve to clinch a dramatic four-wicket win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Monday. They moved to six points, and with two games to spare, have set up a tight race for the remaining playoff spots in DP World ILT20 Season 4. The Warriorz Taskin Ahmed and Wasim Akram reduced the Knight Riders to 10/4, with Adil Rashid's three wickets later restricting them to 134/9 despite Sherfane Rutherford's 44 off 36. Then, James Rews unbeaten 42 off 29 balls with four fours and a six, coupled with Razas 28 off 25 tookthem to the victory on the final ball. In the second innings, Jason Holder got the early wicket of Johnson Charles (0 off 6) in the second over, and Monank Patel (7 off 8) soon followed in the third over, bowled by Ajay Kumar. Tom Kohler-Cadmore (30 off 35) then hit three boundaries in a single over. Charles, along with Tom Abell (13 off 13), guided the Warriorz to 38/2 by the end of the power play. Olly Stone delivered a breakthrough for the Knight Riders by removing Tom Abell, while Sunil Narine kept Kohler-Cadmore and Sikandar Raza in check. The Warriorz eventuallyreached 58/3 at the halfway stage of the chase. Sunil Narine finally broke the resistance by trapping Kohler-Cadmore LBW. His 35-run stand off 32 balls with Raza kept the Warriorz in the chase. James Rew then struck a pair of boundaries off Andre Russell in the 14th over and continued to rotate the strike alongside Raza as the Warriorz reached91/4 after 15 overs. Raza and Rew kept the scoreboard ticking to complete a 57-run partnership off 35 balls. He was then dismissed in the 18th over for Ajay Kumars second scalp, after which skipper Holder bowled a superb penultimate over to leave 12 required off the final six balls. However, Rew and Adil Rashid saw outthe final over to seal an important win. Earlier, Taskin Ahmed and Wasim Akram ripped through the top order as the Knight Riders suffered an early collapse. Taskin struck in the opening over to remove Phil Salt (4 off 6), before Wasim trapped Brandon McMullen (0 off 3) LBW in the second. Taskin then added Alex Hales (5 off 5) to histally in the third over. Wasim followed it up with a historic wicket maiden in the fourth over the first maiden by a UAE player in league history to remove Liam Livingstone for a duck. This left the Knight Riders reeling at 10/4, before Alishan Sharafu (19 off 25) and Sherfane Rutherford took them to 28/4 at the end ofthe powerplay. The Knight Riders continued to struggle in the middle overs after spin was added to the bowling equation. Sikandar Raza broke the SharafuRutherford stand of 38 runs in 33 balls when he dismissed the UAE batter. Despite a brief counterattack from Rutherford, the Knight Riders limped to 51/5 at the end of 10 overs. Unmukt Chand (24 off 22) then joined Rutherford in the middle and stitched together a much-needed stand of 52 runs in 45 balls to steady the Knight Riders. Rutherford shifted gears in the 15th over with a six and two boundaries off Nathan Sowter. The pair added vital runs through the middle, taking the totalto 95/5, before the momentum was checked in the 17th over when Dwaine Pretorius removed the set Rutherford. Adil Rashid sent Unmukt Chand packing in the 18th over, but Andre Russell and Jason Holder provided a late surge with a couple of sixes each, hammering 25 runs off Taskin in the 19th over. Rashid returned in the final over to dismiss Holder (14 off 6) and Russell (18 off 12), finishing with a decisive three-wicket haul as the Knight Riders were restricted to 134/9. Match Summary Sharjah Warriorz beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by four wickets Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 134/9 in 20 overs (Sherfane Rutherford 44, Unmukt Chand 24, Adil Rashid 3 for 18, Wasim Akram 2 for 12, Taskin Ahmed 2 for 41) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sharjah Warriorz 135/6 in 20 overs (James Rew 42 not out, Tom Kohler-Cadmore 30, Sikandar Raza 28, Ajay Kumar 2 for 29, Jason Holder 2 for 25) Player of the match: Adil Rashid
A brutal game: Tahlia McGrath opens up on form struggle
The allrounder opted not to nominate for the WPL and will focus on preparing for the multi-format series against India
'We Havent Done That Well Enough', Admits Rob Key On Englands Ashes Defeat
Boxing Day Test: Rob Key, England cricket team's managing director, has conceded that Englands current setup has fallen short when it has mattered most, pointing out that they have not won any of their last four five-Test series against Australia or India. Australia have retained the Ashes with a dominant 82-run victory over England in the third Test in Adelaide on Sunday. With the Ashes already out of reach, England now face the task of limiting the damage, beginning with the Boxing Day Test at the MCG. Clearly, weve mucked up on the big occasions. Whether that was the home Ashes series or whether that was last summer against India, where we should have won the series, the big ones have eluded us, Key told reporters at the MCG on Tuesday. The truth is we havent done that well enough for a while. Theres been some brilliant moments along the way and I still feel like theres plenty of life in this whole thing, but we have to evolve. We have to make sure that were doing things better. You dont mind losing, the regret is that youve not played anything like your best. Thats my view on it but, as you know, these things are taken out of peoples hands a lot of the time. The decision really for the ECB will be whether or not they want to rip it up and start again, or whether they want to evolve and whether were the right people to do that, he said. After England lost 4-0 four years ago, this has been the first away series loss of the Bazball era following the appointments of Brendon McCullum as head coach and Ben Stokes as captain in 2022. Despite the scrutiny, Key continues to back McCullum, whom he appointed as Test coach in 2022 before broadening his remit to all formats at the start of this year. McCullum has already indicated that he wants to continue in the role, and Key remains convinced he is the right man for the job. Despite the scrutiny, Key continues to back McCullum, whom he appointed as Test coach in 2022 before broadening his remit to all formats at the start of this year. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Weve had three games here where theyre adapting slowly, and I dont think personally thats because we need a fresh voice or theyre not listening. Sometimes the opposition is just bloody good, he said. Article Source: IANS
Fans unlikely for Kohli's Vijay Hazare Trophy matches at Chinnaswamy Stadium
Kohli and Pant arrived in the city late on Monday, and are expected to train on Tuesday ahead of their tournament opener against Andhra
Cummins Ruled Out Of Remainder Of Ashes, T20 World Cup Participation Uncertain
T20 World Cup: Skipper Pat Cummins has been ruled out of the rest of the Ashes series after being left out of Australias squad for the Boxing Day Test, and it is unclear whether he will be available for the T20 World Cup in February. Cummins had signalled in his post-match press conference, following the Adelaide Test, that he could be rested to manage an ongoing back issue. The pacer, who was diagnosed with a lumbar stress reaction after the West Indies tour, pushed the limits of his rehabilitation from a back stress injury to return for the third Test. He took six wickets in the Adelaide Test as Australia won by 82 runs, retaining the Ashes urn with two games to go. On Tuesday, head coach Andrew McDonald confirmed his injury omission for the rest of the Ashes series. He won't play any part in the rest of the series. That was a discussion that we had a long time out around his return. Yeah, we were taking on some risk. We've now won the series, and that was the goal. To position him for further risk and jeopardise him long term is not something that we want to do, McDonald told reporters in Melbourne. Pat's really comfortable with that. If he had any setback in the build-in as well, we would have shut him down straight away. Everything went really smoothly, and full credit to him, the medical team and to navigate through that risk profile, to get him back and take six wickets in that game and nail the Ashes series was incredibly pleasing for everyone associated with that, he added. It remains to be seen if Cummins will be available for the T20 World Cup set to start in February. I cant really say at the moment, we are hopeful, said McDonald. Everything went really smoothly, and full credit to him, the medical team and to navigate through that risk profile, to get him back and take six wickets in that game and nail the Ashes series was incredibly pleasing for everyone associated with that, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking on Cummins' T20 World Cup chances, McDonald said, That'll be an assessment. I'm assuming he'll have a check-in scan at some point and gather more information around where his back is at looking forward to the World Cup, whether he'll be there or not. I can't really say. It's quite grey at the moment. We're hopeful. Article Source: IANS
Match fees more than doubled for women's domestic cricketers in India
The changes are part of BCCI's ongoing efforts to elevate the domestic game in the wake of India's maiden ODI World Cup triumph
Ashes over for Cummins, uncertainty over T20 World Cup too
That was a discussion that we had a long time out around his return, head coach Andrew McDonald says about Australia captain Pat Cummins' one-Test appearance at the Ashes
Murphy, Richardson Named In Boxing Day Test Squad, Lyon To Undergo Surgery
Boxing Day Test: Todd Murphy and Jhye Richardson have been added to Australia's 15-member squad for the fourth Ashes Test, starting on December 26. Murphy edged out Matt Kuhnemann and Corey Rocchiccioli to replace Nathan Lyon as the veteran off-spinner set to undergo surgery on his injured hamstring. Murphy has featured seven times at Test level for Australia, with his most recent match coming at the start of the year against Sri Lanka in Galle. Australia confirmed on Tuesday that Nathan Lyon will undergo surgery after suffering a torn right hamstring while diving to stop a boundary on the final day of their Ashes-sealing third Test. Meanwhile, Steve Smith is set to resume captaincy subject to clearance from the inner-ear problem that ruled him out in Adelaide, while Pat Cummins will sit out the Boxing Day Test. Richardson could be in line to replace Cummins after making a recent return from injury and linking up with the squad in Adelaide ahead of the third Test. The right-arm quick has featured in just three Tests during an injury-hit career, with his most recent appearance coming against England in Adelaide in 2021, but the selectors continue to hold the 29-year-old in high regard. Richardsons formal addition to the squad puts him in contention for a Test comeback after a four-year absence. He underwent his third shoulder surgery earlier this year and has gradually built up his bowling workload in recent weeks, training alongside the squad during the opening three Tests. The right-arm quick has featured in just three Tests during an injury-hit career, with his most recent appearance coming against England in Adelaide in 2021, but the selectors continue to hold the 29-year-old in high regard. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia squad (fourth Test only): Steve Smith (c), Scott Boland, Alex Carey, Brendan Doggett, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Josh Inglis, Usman Khawaja, Marnus Labuschagne, Todd Murphy, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Mitchell Starc, Jake Weatherald, Beau Webster Article Source: IANS
NZC introduces bonus points in Women's Super Smash to lift scoring rates
With average team totals on the rise in global cricket, the board hopes the new rule keeps NZ on track with global trends
Ashes fallout: Key to investigate whether England's drinking went too far in Noosa
The managing director admitted England had mucked up on the big occasions but backed Brendon McCullum as coach
Murphy, Richardson called up for Boxing Day, Lyon set for surgery
Steven Smith returns from illness to captain in Pat Cummins' absence
BCB Integrity Chief Alex Marshall: The death of a key figure in last year's political uprising and cancellation of the opening ceremony in Dhaka over political unrest have raised doubts over the next season of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). As franchises ramp up preparations, questions continue to swirl around the tournaments ability to start on schedule amid political unrest and security concerns across Bangladesh, a news report said on Monday. Though the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) remains firm in its assertion that the BPL T20 will begin on December 26 in Sylhet, doubts have risen over the event because of the volatile law-and-order situation following the death of Sharif Osman Hadi, a key activist linked to last years political uprising, Telecom Asia Sport said in its report. The incident reignited fears that large-scale sporting events could face disruption. The report said that the BPL Governing Council had initially announced an opening ceremony in Dhaka on December 24, but the plan was later shelved due to security considerations. The postponement amplified speculation over whether the tournament itself could proceed smoothly. Despite this, franchises began training camps in Dhaka and Sylhet from December 20, a move that officials say reflects growing confidence that the situation is stabilising. I think there is no uncertainty regarding BPL, and we are optimistic that it will start on time. The fact that franchises have started full preparation suggests that the law-and-order situation is now under control, a senior BPL official told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) on Monday. According to the BCB, constant coordination with law-enforcement agencies has been central to risk management ahead of the tournament. We are in continuous discussion with the agencies. They have said there is no problem. Everything is ready, including the grounds, to host the tournament, the official added. Players and coaching staff across franchises have echoed similar optimism, proceeding with logistical planning and training schedules for what remains Bangladeshs only franchise-based T20 league. Beyond security, the BPL also faces an integrity crisis that threatens its long-term credibility. On December 21, BCB Integrity Chief Alex Marshall met senior officials of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) to finalise anti-corruption measures for the upcoming season. Marshall, the independent chair of the BCBs newly formed Integrity Unit, held discussions with CID chief Sibgat Ullah to map enforcement strategies during the tournament, the report said. It was a very fruitful meeting where several issues were discussed to ensure a successful BPL. Organisers are keen to deliver a clean tournament, especially after fixing allegations damaged the leagues reputation and the countrys image, a senior official close to the developments told Telecom Asia Sport. The urgency around integrity reforms follows a damaging previous edition of the BPL, which was marred by widespread match-fixing allegations. Acting on a 900-page investigation report, Marshall barred nine cricketers from participating in the BPL auction, sending a strong message ahead of the new season. The move underscores the high stakes for BCB: another controversy could significantly undermine sponsor confidence, broadcaster interest, and the leagues standing in global T20 cricket. The urgency around integrity reforms follows a damaging previous edition of the BPL, which was marred by widespread match-fixing allegations. Acting on a 900-page investigation report, Marshall barred nine cricketers from participating in the BPL auction, sending a strong message ahead of the new season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For now, the board is projecting calm and control. But as the countdown to December 26 continues, the BPL stands at a defining moment, one that could either restore confidence or deepen the challenges facing Bangladesh cricket. Article Source: IANS
BCCI Hikes Match Fee For Women's Domestic Matches
ODI World Cup: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced a hike in the fee for women's domestic matches during an online meeting of its Apex Council on Monday. Under the new proposed structure, the daily match fee for senior womens tournaments (50-over and multi-day) will be increased to Rs 50,000 for the playing XI members and Rs 25,000 for reserves. For senior women's T20 matches, the revised rates will be Rs 25,000 and Rs 12,500, respectively. In a similar vein, domestic T20 match fees have also been increased. The playing XI would now receive Rs 25,000 per match day in national T20 competitions, while reserves will get Rs 12,500. Additionally, the Apex Council raised junior cricket players' fees too. Reserves will receive Rs 12,500 in ODI games, while players in the Under-23 and Under-19 divisions will receive Rs 25,000. The playing XI will get Rs 12,500 for T20 matches, while the reserves will get Rs 6,250. Match officials are also set to benefit significantly under the proposed revisions, with a substantial increase in match fees for umpires and match referees in domestic tournaments. The playing XI will get Rs 12,500 for T20 matches, while the reserves will get Rs 6,250. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The fee hike for domestic matches coming after the Indian women's cricket team triumphed in the ICC Women's ODI World Cup, beating South Africa in the final played in Navi Mumbai, is a clear indicator of the rising status of women's cricket in the country. With the Women's Premier League (WPL) ushering in riches for the top stars, it was the right time for the benefits to pass down to the players at the domestic level, as that will attract new talents and help in identifying and nurturing talent at the grassroots level. Article Source: IANS
ICC pledges to fund USA cricketers amid USAC dysfunction
The ICC revealed it had offered to provide a loan to USAC after the bankruptcy filing that included the payment of player and High-Performance staff salaries
'Bit of a privilege' - Record-breaking Duffy on being NZ's frontman
Duffy toppled Sir Richard Hadlee's record for the most wickets by a New Zealand bowler in a calendar year
From Borgaon To Being Roped In By RCB For Rs 5.20 Crore: Mangesh Yadav's Surreal Tale
MPCA President Mahanaaryaman Scindia: When Mangesh Yadav's name flashed on the IPL 2026 auction broadcast in Abu Dhabi, Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) locked horns in a fierce bidding war that would forever change the left-arm quick's life. Within seconds, his price rocketed from a base price of Rs 30 lakh to a staggering Rs 5.2 crore a staggering jump FOR pacer. Mangesh, a skiddy left-arm pacer consistently clocking 140 kmph with a sharp yorker in his repertoire, could barely process what had just unfolded. I was just thinking the first bid should happen and a team takes me in. I was very happy with the first bid from RCB. But within seconds in front of my eyes, SRH and RCB were bidding for me and it reached five crores, which was extremely astonishing. My parents back home were very happy. They were also getting calls from relatives, recalled Mangesh in an exclusive conversation with IANS. By the roadside in Noida, miles away from where his protege's life was being transformed, Phoolchand Sharma, who runs Wonders Cricket Club in Sector 34, was over the moon. I can't tell you how happy I was on seeing him get selected. Before that, a lot of my kids have played in IPL, but theres a different happiness for him. I did hope that he would be picked by any franchise in the auction. I have never met his father or mother, nor have I ever spoken to them. I have raised him like my own kid. Hes been a good boy from the start, a calm and hardworking kid. I gave him a lot of matches to play in Delhi, as well as in district leagues in Delhi and UP. Hes had a very long journey and is now seeing the fruits of being committed to that path, he told IANS. Mangeshs cricketing journey began in Borgaon village in Madhya Pradeshs Chhindwara district, not in an established academy but within the confines of his homes compound. As a six-year-old, he'd return home in tears after fighting with boys while playing. His mother Rita found a solution: she'd bowl to him in the compound and he would bat for as long as he wished for. From there, I started playing cricket regularly and it went on and on. I started bowling a little late with the left arm. But I used to see the bowling of Mitchell Johnson and RP Singh sir bowling and that served me with a lot of motivation, he said. As years went by, Mangesh's talent was remarkable. But in a family of six, including three sisters, his father Ramavadh drove trucks to make ends meet. Pursuing professional cricket seemed financially impossible till his maternal uncle convinced Ramavadh to let his son train seriously in cricket. After that, Mangesh headed to Noida to train under Sharma. The hostel fees was Rs 20,000 per month, well beyond his familys reach. What happened next would alter the trajectory of Mangesh's life. Sir saw my game and he liked it. He forgave my fees and told me to stay here and practice, so that was very helpful in my journey. My father has done so much for me. I didn't have any stress, I just wanted to play cricket, all the struggle was of my father. If it wasn't for Phoolchand sir, I wouldn't have been able to play cricket. The reality of Ramavadh's sacrifice was never lost on Mangesh. While Mangesh caught 4am trains for training and playing matches, his father was waking at the same time to begin another gruelling shift behind the wheel - navigating treacherous roads through the night with no fixed schedule. My father's struggle is unmatchable. I used to feel sad that I am going out to play, but the father is waking up daily in the morning, goes out to drive the truck in night through a lot of dangerous roads, though they are in a much better condition now. The academy evolved alongside Mangesh - from basic facilities to a comprehensive setup featuring gym, indoor nets, trainers and coaches. Apart from Shivam Mavi, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, India stars Jasprit Bumrah, Ashish Nehra and Hardik Pandya would drop in for net sessions at Sharmas academy when in Delhi-NCR. What immediately struck Sharma about Mangesh was the rarity of discovering a left-arm quick whose natural bowling action didn't require fundamental reconstruction. His bowling action reminded him of how Zaheer Khan bowled - smooth, repeatable, lethal. You do know that when a left-handed batter or bowler plays, there is an alag nazakat (different sheen) to it. Right from the rhythm of his run-up, he seemed like a perfect packaged bowler. We have to teach a lot of kids that you are running slow, head is falling over and rhythm is not good. But when he used to run and bowl, it was perfect action, like how Zaheer used to have. I used to like Zaheer's action and he was just like that. We worked on improvising it, he added. Small technical tweaks combined with natural athleticism gradually revealed a complete cricketer capable of consistently hitting 140kmph. The biggest thing is he had a lot of seniors to learn and get support from, like Anureet Singh, who played for IPL for many years, Mavi, and Bhuvneshwar. We caught some of his small shortcomings, or at times, other boys caught it. We developed his bowling slowly. He is a good fielder from the start. In between, when the kids used to go elsewhere, he used to hit long sixes. His hitting power has been very good, he added. Mangesh represented MP in U19 and U23 teams, but feared opportunities were slipping away without a proper platform to showcase his talent. Then came the Madhya Pradesh League - an initiative by current MPCA President Mahanaaryaman Scindia that proved to be transformative. Playing for Gwalior Cheetahs this year, Mangesh claimed 14 wickets to become the tournament's leading wicket-taker and IPL scouts took notice. I thought I would be late in grabbing my opportunity, but Scindia ji introduced the MP League and then I got the chance to perform. When I got good performances in it this year, everything has happened well from then onwards for me. Mangeshs three mentors - Anand Rajan, Tanmay Srivastava and Ankur Tyagi also stepped in to refine his game and mindset. Srivastava, an Under-19 World Cup winner for India in 2008 and now an active umpire, provided invaluable perspective to Mangesh, so as Rajan, who played for the state and in the IPL. I talk to Ankur Tyagi after every match - he is like a big brother to me. He has always supported and guided me in the right way. Due to all three of them, I have always improved in the right way, he said. Despite a disappointing debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (SMAT), MP head coach Chandrakant Pandit pushed him to showcase his batting abilities in the second match against Punjab. Mangesh grabbed the chance by hitting 28 off 12 balls, proving that he was more than just a bowler. My first match was not that good, but the captain backed me well, due to which I was amongst the wickets. Pandit sir told me 'Mangesh, you will also have to do some batting'. In the second game, he sent me up to bat and I was able to showcase my batting abilities, which felt really good. Before embarking to Pune for the tournaments Super League stage, Mangesh went through trials with RCB, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and Mumbai Indians. Though he couldn't attend SRH and PBKS trials due to hectic schedule, the formers bowling coach, ex-India pacer Varun Aaron took notice of his skillsets. But now, landing at RCB means sharing a dressing room with the talismanic Virat Kohli - a childhood dream that Mangesh admits never seemed remotely possible. I always wanted to play under Virat sir's captaincy. But he is not doing it and I feel sharing the dressing room with him is a big deal. I never imagined that I would play alongside him and this set to become a reality is a great feeling. His recent experience under Patidar's captaincy during high-pressure SMAT games also keeps Mangesh in good stead. Cricket is tough if you think in mind about it and playing in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy is a lot of pressure, as you do know the likes of Prabhsimran Singh and Ishan Kishan are tough to bowl to. But all of this was made easy by playing under Rajat bhaiya's captaincy. The role he gave me, I managed to fulfill that and it made life easy. The visualization has already begun Mangesh standing at the top of his run-up in RCB's iconic red jersey, with the new ball in hand, enough to give him goosebumps. But the ultimate dream still remains to be wearing Indias blue jersey. How exciting it will be to wear the RCB jersey and have the ball in hand at the top of my run-up mark. I hope that this paves the way for me to wear the Indian team jersey and bowl the first ball for my country. That will be an out of the world feeling. Rather than dwelling on IPL's magnitude, Mangesh plans to focus on absorbing lessons from Kohli, Patidar and Venkatesh Iyer to improve his craft. We will have a team camp, where I will prepare alongside with Virat sir, Venky and Rajat bhaiyas. I will learn from them by playing a lot of practice matches and improve along the way. I will get to be in touch with them, so it is going to be very helpful for me. What separates Mangesh from India's impressive stable of fast bowlers, Sharma argues, isn't just his left-arm pace - it's being that rare quick offering genuine all-round capabilities. The biggest thing is India has a lot of fast bowlers, but you won't get a perfect package like him. I can count them - Arshdeep, Bumrah, Harshit Rana, Shami. All of them are good bowlers. They play for India because they are good. But they won't be a batter or fielder like them. It's not that he is my child. I am talking about the language of cricket. Being a cricketer, he is a perfect package. In the future, if God keeps him healthy, you will see him play for India in a year or two. The financial windfall from the life-changing IPL deal means Mangesh can fulfill his off-field aspirations. Marrying off his three sisters with pomp and splendour tops his priority list, followed by giving his father respite from decades of grueling truck driving work and buying a house to end the familys stay in a rented home. His message to aspiring cricketers reflects hard-earned wisdom - that talent alone isn't enough, that even strong performances don't guarantee selection, and that persistence matters more than immediate results. What I have felt through my cricketing journey is without struggle, you won't get anything. You won't get anything easy and if you're playing cricket, you'll have to put in more effort, including the double of what is expected usually, as there are times when you won't get selected even if you perform well. His message to aspiring cricketers reflects hard-earned wisdom - that talent alone isn't enough, that even strong performances don't guarantee selection, and that persistence matters more than immediate results. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You just have to be true to yourself and your efforts. My seniors always tell me that I have to put my head down and play cricket. So it's important to respect everyone and keep your head down and play well when on the field, signed off Mangesh. Article Source: IANS
K Gowtham retires from all forms of cricket
Gowtham, 37, finishes with 394 wickets across formats for Karnataka in a domestic career that spanned for nearly 14 years
McGrath Questions England's Mentality After Australia Retain Ashes Title
The Boxing Day Test: Former Australia cricketer Glenn McGrath questioned England's approach after the visitors were handed defeat in the third Test of the Ashes series as hosts Australia on Sunday claimed the series 3-0 and defended the Ashes title. Australia stormed to an 82-run victory in the Adelaide Test, retaining the Ashes series after winning their third consecutive Test this series. Australia already have an unbeatable 3-0 lead in the five-match series after just 11 days of cricket, matching the fastest time frame in which the Ashes have been won in the past century, following easy victories in Perth and Brisbane. England have now gone 18 Tests without a win in Australia. England came here with a big reputation. We heard lots about how this was their best chance to win here since 2010-11, and how this was the worst Australia team since then. No one expected Australia to be 3-0 up after three Tests. We can criticise England - and plenty of people have - but we also must give immense credit to Australia for the way they have played, McGrath wrote in a column for BBC Sport. However, McGrath believes there was no lack in quality of the England players; rather, it's the mentality that is putting them down. The Australian great labelled captain Ben Stokes and Joe Root as the greatest of the generation, but they have yet to win a Test match in Australia. I do not believe England's long barren run in Australia is down to the quality of their players. Think of all the men who have been part of England's Ashes teams since they last won in Australia. Alastair Cook, Kevin Pietersen, James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Chris Woakes, Mark Wood, Jofra Archer. The list goes on. Joe Root and Ben Stokes, the cornerstones of this current team and two of the greatest to ever play for England, have never won a Test here. If this long winless streak is not down to ability, it must be down to mentality. It was a tough fight from England's lower-order, particularly from wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith and all-rounder Brydon Carse. Their efforts raised hopes of a miracle, but a disciplined bowling attack kept the hosts in control, and they continued to hold the urn. Smith (60), Will Jacks (47), and Brydon Carse (38 not out) offered hope to Ben Stokes' team after England reached 207-6 on Saturday. Nonetheless, Mitchell Starc (3-62) brought Australia close to victory before Scott Boland dismissed Josh Tongue, ending the tourists' innings at 352 in pursuit of a record 435 to win. The Boxing Day Test at the MCG begins on December 26, and McGrath has urged England to adapt their style of play, predicting a strong fightback from the visitors as they embrace the challenge of performing in front of a crowd of 100,000 spectators. It was a tough fight from England's lower-order, particularly from wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith and all-rounder Brydon Carse. Their efforts raised hopes of a miracle, but a disciplined bowling attack kept the hosts in control, and they continued to hold the urn. Smith (60), Will Jacks (47), and Brydon Carse (38 not out) offered hope to Ben Stokes' team after England reached 207-6 on Saturday. Nonetheless, Mitchell Starc (3-62) brought Australia close to victory before Scott Boland dismissed Josh Tongue, ending the tourists' innings at 352 in pursuit of a record 435 to win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, if we're talking about mentality, it will not get any easier for England. They are due to play in front of 100,000 spectators at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, most of whom will be firmly behind Australia. The Boxing Day Test is an institution in Australian sport, and the atmosphere on Friday will be electric. It will be a tough place to be an English cricketer. England should embrace the challenge, react to it, and enjoy it. It could be a valuable lesson for the players who come back to Australia in four years, he said. Article Source: IANS
Krishnappa Gowtham Retires From All Forms Of Cricket
Karnataka State Cricket Association: Former India all-rounder Krishnappa Gowtham has called time on his professional cricket career, announcing his retirement from all formats on Monday. The 37-year-old shared the news at a special press conference held at the KSCA Media Lounge, attended by Karnataka State Cricket Association president Venkatesh Prasad, vice-president Sujith Somasundar, and secretary Santosh Menon. Gowtham featured once for India at the international level, making his lone ODI appearance against Sri Lanka on July 23, 2021. His only international wicket came in that match, when he dismissed wicketkeeper Minod Bhanuka. He rose to prominence in the Indian Premier League when he became the most expensive uncapped Indian player at the IPL 2021 auction, after being snapped up by Chennai Super Kings for INR 9.25 crore. That record later changed hands, first with Avesh Khan and more recently with Kartik Sharma and Prashant Veer at the IPL 2026 mini-auction. Across his IPL career, Gowtham has turned out for Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants. His final appearance in the league came in May 2024, representing Lucknow Super Giants against Sunrisers Hyderabad. In 36 IPL matches, the spin-bowling all-rounder scored 247 runs at a strike rate of 166.90, while also taking 21 wickets at an economy rate of 8.24. Beyond the IPL, he enjoyed solid returns in domestic cricket, finishing with 737 runs and 116 wickets from 32 first-class games. In List A cricket, he scored 400 runs and claimed 51 wickets in 32 matches, while his T20 career saw him amass 454 runs and take 32 wickets across 49 appearances. Across his IPL career, Gowtham has turned out for Mumbai Indians, Rajasthan Royals, Punjab Kings, Chennai Super Kings and Lucknow Super Giants. His final appearance in the league came in May 2024, representing Lucknow Super Giants against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gowtham also represented India A on multiple occasions and came close to earning further international caps in other formats. Known for his resilience and fierce competitiveness, he carved out a career built on grit and determination, leaving behind a reputation as a cricketer who consistently punched above his weight against elite opposition. Article Source: IANS
Gilkes 76, Shadab four-for lead Thunder to first win of the season
Matt Renshaw's quick 43 was not enough to salvage Heat's chase of 194
Ishan Kishan Named Captain As Jharkhand Announce Squad For Vijay Hazare Trophy
Jharkhand Squad For Vijay Hazare: India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been named captain of Jharkhand for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite (VHT) 2025/26, the Jharkhand State Cricket Association (JSCA) confirmed. The domestic 50-over tournament begins on December 24, with Jharkhand set to open their campaign against Karnataka in Ahmedabad. The squad announced for the season features a mix of experience and youth, including Kumar Kushagra, Anukul Roy, Robin Minz, Abhinav Sharan and Virat Singh, as Jharkhand look to build on recent success in white-ball cricket. Kishans appointment follows a standout Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025/26 season, where he led Jharkhand to their maiden SMAT title. The wicketkeeper-batter was in outstanding form throughout the tournament, amassing 517 runs from 10 innings at an average of 57.44, with two hundreds and two half-centuries to his name. His defining moment came in the final against Haryana, where he struck a commanding 101 to guide his side to the championship. That run of performances has also earned Kishan a recall to the Indian squad for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. He has been included as the teams second-choice wicketkeeper-batter, behind Sanju Samson, marking a return to the national setup on the back of sustained domestic excellence. Kishans appointment follows a standout Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025/26 season, where he led Jharkhand to their maiden SMAT title. The wicketkeeper-batter was in outstanding form throughout the tournament, amassing 517 runs from 10 innings at an average of 57.44, with two hundreds and two half-centuries to his name. His defining moment came in the final against Haryana, where he struck a commanding 101 to guide his side to the championship. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jharkhand Squad For Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025/26: Ishan Kishan (WK & captain), Virat Singh, Utkarsh Singh, Kumar Kushagra (WK & vice-captain), Robin Minz, Anukul Roy, Sharandeep Singh, Shikhar Mohan, Pankaj Kumar (WK), Bala Krishna, Md Kounain Quraishi, Shubh Sharma, Amit Kumar, Manishi, Abhinav Sharan, Sushant Mishra, Vikash Singh, Saurabh Shekhar, Rajandeep Singh, Shubham Singh. Article Source: IANS
Cameron Green breaks IPL overseas record in move to Kolkata Knight Riders
The Australia allrounder was part of a bidding war which saw him finish with a AU$4.2 million deal
Suryakumar Yadav To Play Two Vijay Hazare Trophy Matches In Jan 2026
The Indian T20I: India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav and all-rounder Shivam Dube have informed the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) of their availability for two Vijay Hazare Trophy fixtures scheduled for January 6 and 8. Mumbais 50-over campaign will get underway in Jaipur from December 24, with their opening league match against Sikkim on Wednesday. As per a report by Indian Express, Suryakumar and Dube are set to feature in the games against Himachal Pradesh on January 6 and the next against Punjab two days later. Surya and Dube have informed us that they will be playing two Vijay Hazare Trophy games on January 6th and 8th. Their names will be added in the Mumbai squad. As far as Rohit Sharma is concerned, he will be playing two league games at the moment, an MCA official was quoted as saying in the report. All players who were part of Indias recent 3-1 T20I series victory over South Africa have been directed to play at least two matches in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. The BCCI has communicated this requirement to its contracted players, continuing a push for greater participation in domestic cricket. Earlier this year, selection committee chair Ajit Agarkar had stressed the importance of internationals turning out in domestic competitions whenever their schedules allow. I think we made it clear a year or a couple of years back that whenever players are available, they should be playing domestic cricket. I mean, thats the only way youll keep yourself sharp and playing cricket, if youve got a long enough break. Whether thats possible with the international cricket youre playing or not, that only time will tell, but if the guys are free, they should be playing domestic cricket, Agarkar had said. Earlier this year, selection committee chair Ajit Agarkar had stressed the importance of internationals turning out in domestic competitions whenever their schedules allow. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In the meantime, Rohit and Mumbai captain Shardul are expected to arrive in Jaipur on Monday and take part in a practice session the following day. Mumbais first two fixtures of the tournament are against Sikkim on December 24 and Uttarakhand on December 26, both to be played in Jaipur. Article Source: IANS
Meet Mohammad Izhar - The Left-arm Pacer From Bihar Who Caught The Eye Of Mumbai Indians
The Bihar Cricket Association: Mohammad Izhar had little time to savour the feeling of his IPL dream coming true. As his name was called out at the IPL 2026 auction, the left-arm pacer from Birpur in Bihars Supaul district was already racing against the clock - within 15-20 minutes, he needed to board a bus for a six-hour ride to Patna, where the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp awaited him. When the auction was on, I was at home with my brothers in law. While from the outside I was very excited and nervous, I was very anxious about whether my name will come in the auction or not. Finally, the Mumbai Indians picked me and it brought in a different level of happiness. While I was feeling very good and excited about getting a chance to be in IPL, I became very emotional. Though everyone began celebrating at home, I had to leave to catch the bus for Patna, so I didn't celebrate it much, Izhar recalled in an exclusive conversation with IANS. The five-time champions have been renowned for unearthing uncapped gems through a robust scouting system. Though they had a small purse in IPL 2026 auction, picking Izhar for his base price of Rs 30 lakh is very much a signal that they may have unearthed another gem in the making. Even as he remained engaged with the trials of Kolkata Knight Riders, Izhar recalled how the five-time champions chose patience in having a look at him. Though Mumbai Indians is a big franchise, they are so humble, which even words cannot explain. When they called me for a trial, I was at KKR's trial. But despite being such a big team, they waited for me to come for the trials. When I reached, I was very tired, but I saw they waited for me and told me to rest for a while, so that I could bowl comfortably after recovering. I rested well and then went through the trials very well. It's a very good franchise and the coaches there were very humble. Izhar's cricketing journey began in Birpur, a town in Supaul district, where tennis ball cricket was the gateway to bigger dreams. His transition to leather ball cricket came through a chance observation by his local mentor Jaichand, who spotted raw talent that others missed. Jaichand bhaiya and Birbal bhaiya got me into leather ball cricket and taught me a lot for the last 2-3 years. Previously, I played tennis ball cricket and in one of the games, Jaichand bhaiya saw me bowling and then he told me to start playing with a leather ball. I then went on to play for the district and initially it felt a little tough as I was straightaway playing these games without having played leather ball cricket before. But it began so well that I havent looked back after that. Birbal bhaiya is a star bowler himself. I learnt a lot from him and Jaichand, who himself was a cricketer, he added. Watching legendary fast bowlers Mitchell Starc, Shoaib Akhtar and Brett Lee also transformed Izhars casual interest into a Junoon (passion) to play cricket. Starc has always been my idol from the start. Then seeing Akhtar and Lee take wickets brought in a junoon in me about playing cricket. From the start, it was not like I will play for India or be in IPL. Gradually, I started playing and those thing started to come in my mind. You do get a good understanding of these things once you start to put yourself through the grind. I started setting aims that I want to play for the state and do well there. It was in my mind that I wanted to play in the IPL, though the goal of playing for India is still at the top. But I didn't anticipate that I will get picked this year. So, I am very thankful to God that I got picked for IPL this year. Like many young cricketers from smaller towns, Izhar's early journey wasn't paved with automatic support. Bihar's limited cricketing infrastructure meant initial struggles were there, but his father's growing belief in him transformed everything. When I started playing, my father started giving me a lot of support. He began to understand that I have games to play and do well in them. The support from him grew so much that he started taking care of everything around me by himself. Whenever I got small bruises, he would put a bandage quickly at home. The Bihar Cricket Association's faith proved equally crucial, especially after Izhar had a disappointing previous season. The backing from BCA officials, including previous President Rakesh Tiwari, allowed Izhar to rebuild confidence and rediscover form when it mattered most. Last year, I did not get anything great in terms of performances. I started preparing for this season early and the association trusted me to come good. So I am very thankful for that to all of them in BCA. I am very thankful for the chances because of which I got selected for the IPL. I had a good performance this time in Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy (taking nine wickets in five games in Kolkata), where the IPL scouts saw me, called me for trials, got into the auction and now I will be in IPL. Izhars bowling arsenal centers on both inswing and outswing, complemented by variations of slower ball essential for success in T20s. Operating around 135 kmph, Izhar acknowledges his game remains a work in progress, particularly his execution of yorker and consistency with swing deliveries. I also have the yorker in my repertoire, but I need to groom and polish it more. In all, I need to do everything better because I am not always perfect. Like my in swing and out swing is not perfect yet, and I need to work on it more. I always try to work on the small things and make my bowling better. Plus, there are some variations of slower ball that I need to polish and groom more. With an IPL deal in hand, Izhar will have access to two masters of the craft - Trent Boult, whose left-arm swing bowling mirrors Izhar's own style, and Jasprit Bumrah, whose yorkers and control have redefined modern-day fast bowling. Boult bowls with the left arm like me and Bumrah swings the ball well. His yorkers are deadly. I am going to learn a lot from them. For youngsters from modest cricketing outposts, Izhars rise carries a clear message: patience and persistence outweigh the lure of instant success. His journey from tennis-ball matches in Birpur to an IPL contract with MI stands as validation of that belief. With an IPL deal in hand, Izhar will have access to two masters of the craft - Trent Boult, whose left-arm swing bowling mirrors Izhar's own style, and Jasprit Bumrah, whose yorkers and control have redefined modern-day fast bowling. Boult bowls with the left arm like me and Bumrah swings the ball well. His yorkers are deadly. I am going to learn a lot from them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Now on the cusp of wearing MIs iconic blue and gold in IPL 2026, Izhars emergence adds fresh momentum to his promising cricketing story. It underlines once more that, with the right backing, cricketing talent can emerge from the games most unheralded corners. Article Source: IANS
Sky Sports Cricket: Former England captain Nasser Hussain has criticised Englands performance in the Ashes series against Australia, saying the latest campaign has proved o different from previous heavy defeats in Australia, despite a major change in approach. Australia have retained the Ashes with a dominant 82-run victory over England in the third Test in Adelaide on Sunday. The hosts clinched the series win midway through the final day of the Adelaide contest, with Scott Boland claiming the decisive wicket as England were bowled out for 352 in their second innings. Australia made it 3-0 in the five-game Ashes series. After England lost 4-0 four years ago, this has been the first away series loss of the Bazball era following the appointments of Brendon McCullum as head coach and Ben Stokes as captain in 2022. Speaking on the Ashes Daily podcast on Sky Sports Cricket after the third Test, Hussain said he initially welcomed Englands attempt to think differently after repeated failures in Australia. He noted that the team had planned ahead, made bold selections and focused on pace and aggressive batting to challenge Australian bowlers. I quite like the fact they have done things differently over the last four years since the last Ashes drubbing. I do like the fact they have thought differently; they have planned ahead. If you carry on doing what you have always done, you will get the same results, so they saw we need to do something different. I quite like that, they've thought ahead, said Hussain The former skipper also noted that Englands rethink was driven by history, as most touring sides have lost convincingly in Australia. He added that Joe Root, despite playing 17 Test matches in the country, has yet to record a win there. But actually, if you've come here and looked at them in the last three-four weeks you'd have thought 'is it really that different from any other England side?' They've not batted well, they've not bowled well, they've not caught well. Under key moments and pressure situations, they've buckled. Every other England side apart from the (Andrew) Strauss side [in 2010-11] has come here and lost and lost convincingly. Joe Root has now played 17 Test matches in Australia; he hasn't won one, he said. But actually, if you've come here and looked at them in the last three-four weeks you'd have thought 'is it really that different from any other England side?' They've not batted well, they've not bowled well, they've not caught well. Under key moments and pressure situations, they've buckled. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So that's why there was this rethink... even after the massive rethink and left-field selections and 'we must have pace' and 'we must have batters that put bowlers under pressure', actually we've ended up getting exactly what we've had on virtually every other Ashes tour, and that's what disappoints me because I thought this time, with this opposition, it might have been slightly different. It has been no different, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Sakib Hussain Ready For Fresh Start In IPL Bandwagon After Being Picked By SRH
Tunna Giri Cricket Academy: Sakib Hussain was at Bihars Vijay Hazare Trophy camp in Patna when Sunrisers Hyderabad picked him for his base price of Rs 30 lakh at the IPL 2026 auction. The move marks the start of a new IPL chapter for Hussain, the right-arm pacer who tasted championship glory with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in 2024, though he didnt get to play a single game. At the time of the auction, we were at the Vijay Hazare Trophy camp in Patna. When SRH picked me, I felt really good because the things where I had my shortcomings, I did improve on them during the IPL and implemented that in domestic games. I have made sure to leave no stone unturned in overcoming those shortcomings and do well whenever a chance comes to play in the tournament, said Hussain in an exclusive conversation with IANS. Hussains path of coming back to the IPL involved trials with Chennai Super Kings, Delhi Capitals, Rajasthan Royals, and KKR before SRH got him in the auction. Shortly after that, he received an encouraging call from the franchise's bowling coach and former India pacer Varun Aaron. Varun Aaron told me to get ready and that I have to do well and move ahead by working hard. On hearing this, first of all, I thanked him and the SRH team for taking me in. He replied back by telling me that this is just the fruit of your hardwork. Despite not getting a game in IPL 2024, Hussains time with KKR proved invaluable, as the Gopalganj native got masterclass from some of cricket's biggest names like Andre Russell, Sunil Narine, Rinku Singh and coach Abhishek Nayar. All of them taught me a lot of good things. Like, the way they planned, playing with a different mindset on match day, and how to judge a player, I got to learn a lot of things there, he said. Hussain also learnt a valuable lesson in KKR - that physical talent alone wouldn't separate the good from the great at a higher level. In my time of being in KKR, one big thing I learnt was cricket is a mind game. The one who thinks well plays well on the field. Everyone is talented, but the one who thinks well, plays well. In the IPL, on a daily basis, you have to think and plan about what to do. Sometimes you have to change your plan in seconds and I got to learn about how to do that. Hussains journey traces back to humble beginnings at Tunna Giri Cricket Academy in Gopalganj, where coach Robin Singh became his pillar of support through every high and low. People like Saket bhaiya, Kumar bhaiya at the academy have supported me. My coach Robin Singh is the most special person in my life. He has helped me through ups and downs, as well as been in my good and bad times. Hes supported me a lot, he said. He also credited the Bihar Cricket Association leadership - President Harsh Vardhan, Rakesh Tiwari, and Secretary Rahul - for creating pathways that helped a small-town cricketer like him to play at the highest level. They all have helped me in going from playing in a small town to such a big stage. They have supported me a lot and I would like to thank them from the bottom of my heart. Looking ahead to his stint with SRH, Hussain is eager to learn from captain Pat Cummins and other international stars in the setup. In IPL, you get a good coach and mentor who can guide you well. But everywhere you go, the main interest is in playing at any given opportunity and that aids your growth. In the Hyderabad team, a lot of legendary players like skipper Pat Cummins are present, as I will get to learn a lot and carry those lessons very well. Hussains bustling pace in his domestic performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, particularly a remarkable 10-wicket haul against Arunachal Pradesh in the first half of Ranji Trophy and taking six wickets in Bihars Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league games in Kolkata. In matches, I just keep things simple and focus on what I want to do, which was to pick timely breakthroughs. It also helps that I never think too far and keep focus on doing things in the present moment in the match. Hussains bustling pace in his domestic performances caught the attention of IPL scouts, particularly a remarkable 10-wicket haul against Arunachal Pradesh in the first half of Ranji Trophy and taking six wickets in Bihars Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league games in Kolkata. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Having experienced the euphoria of an IPL title with KKR, Hussain signed off by saying hes hungry to recreate that success in SRH colours. Definitely we will try to become the winning team again in the IPL next year. It will be very good to have a picture there with the trophy again on my Instagram profile. I am very excited to learn a lot and do well to win the trophy for SRH this time. Article Source: IANS
Thailands Nattaya Boochatham, Rosenan Kano Retire From International Cricket
ICC Emerging Nations Trophy: In a surprising move, two long-serving women cricketers of Thailand, Nattaya Boochatham and Rosenan Kanoh, announced their retirements from international cricket after claiming their sixth consecutive gold medal in the Womens T20 competition at the SEA Games Thailand 2025. Veteran all-rounder Nattaya Boochatham confirmed the final was the last appearance of her international career. At 39, she has been a central figure in Thailands rise on the regional and global stage, consistently contributing as a left-handed top-order batter and a reliable off-spinner. The gold-medal win against Malaysia provided a fitting end to Boochathams time in national colours. A cornerstone of the Thailand womens team for more than a decade, she played key roles in the sides successes across ICC and ACC tournaments, including appearances at the 2020 ICC Womens T20 World Cup in Australia and multiple Asia Cup campaigns. She was also part of the squad that recently lifted the ICC Emerging Nations Trophy. Boochatham finished her career with more than 100 wickets in official womens T20 internationals, a mark that stood as a national record until Thipatcha Putthawong surpassed it recently. Her value as a dependable all-rounder leaves a significant gap as Thailand transitions into their next phase. Joining her in retirement was all-rounder Rosenan Kanoh, who ended her international career on a high during the same final. Thailand were under pressure at 19/3 while chasing a modest target of 59 when the 26-year-old walked to the crease. Boochatham finished her career with more than 100 wickets in official womens T20 internationals, a mark that stood as a national record until Thipatcha Putthawong surpassed it recently. Her value as a dependable all-rounder leaves a significant gap as Thailand transitions into their next phase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As Thailand women's cricket moves forward, the impact and legacy of both Boochatham and Kanoh will remain deeply woven into the teams international journey. Article Source: IANS
Connolly Eyes IPL 2026 Stint With PBKS As A Platform To Sharpen Spin Bowling Skills
Indian Premier League: Australia's rising left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Cooper Connolly said he is viewing his maiden Indian Premier League (IPL) stint with Punjab Kings in 2026 as a crucial opportunity to sharpen his skills as a bowler by learning from elite spinners in the competition. I think I'm still developing my game with the ball. But it's super exciting. I think I'm just going to try to develop my bowling as much as I can. I think what's happened over sort of last three years is there's been a big factor in me trying to get my bowling up to speed. I feel like it's starting to slowly become a threat. It'll be nice to learn off, I guess, some guys there and watch how some guys go about it. But it's something I've been working hard and looking forward to sort of getting stuck in and challenging myself, Connolly told IANS in a virtual round table organised by the franchise on Monday. PBKS acquiring Connolly's services for Rs 3 crore in last weeks auction at Abu Dhabi, came after he hit a match-winning unbeaten 61 off 53 balls in Adelaide against a visiting Indian side in October, where he guided Australia from a precarious 132/4 to chasing 265 and grab a series win. This, though, wasnt Connollys first brush with anything related to India in his cricketing career. Connolly, who modelled his batting on former batter Shaun Marsh (who coincidentally turned out for PBKS from 2008 to 2017 in IPL) toured India with the Australia A side in September-October, where he excelled in the red-ball and white-ball games played in Lucknow and Kanpur. He also attended an intensive 12-day training camp organised by Cricket Australia at the MRF Academy in Chennai in 2023. Connolly agreed that his prior experience of being in Indian conditions should prove to be valuable when playing on different pitches and packed crowds in IPL 2026. It's very valuable. I think I've been to India a couple of times now and any chance we get to go over there is always a chance to sort of understand those conditions. I always take sort of a lot of learnings and obviously it's not as fast and bouncy as Australia, but just sort of the different sort of looking pitches and wickets that can spin. So I've taken a lot of learnings and obviously there's still going to be some time for me to learn a bit more about the conditions when I'm over there. But it's just sort of trying to understand it as quickly as I can so that I get the best out of myself when I'm out there in the middle, he added. For Connolly, who was captaining Australia in the 2022 ICC Under-19 Mens World Cup in the West Indies, his rapid ascent through international cricket has been dizzying. He remains grateful for all the chances coming his way and is keen to maximise the opportunities which can continue his impressive upward trajectory. While Connolly faces stiff competition for entering Australia's T20 World Cup squad given the team's depth, his all-round abilities and the tournament's location in India and Sri Lanka could work in his favour. Everything's happened fast over the last three years; it's been pretty surreal. I've sort of had a couple of moments recently where I've just looked back at what's happened over the last three years. But it's obviously an honour to represent your country in all three formats. I'm still 22, and there's still a lot of cricket for me to play. So, every opportunity I get at the moment, I'm just trying to make the most of it and just put my best foot forward. Connolly is particularly eager to work under PBKS captain Shreyas Iyer, whom he briefly met during the Australia A tour of India. When I was over there for Australia vs India 'A' games, I spoke to him a little bit and just watching him go about his work, he's a world-class player and even watching him in Australia, he's a star. I'm still 22, and there's still a lot of cricket for me to play. So, every opportunity I get at the moment, I'm just trying to make the most of it and just put my best foot forward. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There's obviously some guys that I haven't met yet. So I'm looking forward to getting over there and meeting them all and trying to just pick up everyone's brains and how to play in Indian conditions. But it's going to be an unbelievable tournament, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Gill, Arshdeep, Abhishek Named In Punjab's 18-man Vijay Hazare Trophy Squad
New Zealand T20Is: India openers Shubman Gill and Abhishek Sharma, along with pacer Arshdeep Singh, have been named in Punjab's 18-man Vijay Hazare Trophy squad Alongside the trio, the squad also includes Prabhsimran Singh, Naman Dhir, Anmolpreet Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Sanvir Singh, Harpreet Brar, Gurnoor Brar and Krish Bhagat. Punjab, who were last season's quarterfinalists, are slotted in Elite Group C and will begin their campaign against Maharashtra on December 24, playing all seven league matches in Jaipur. The league-stage fixtures conclude on January 8, three days before India's first ODI. Gill, Abhishek and Arshdeep's availability, however, remains unclear, as India are scheduled to play three ODIs against New Zealand starting January 11, followed by five T20Is from January 21. Gill, who was dropped from the T20I squad for the T20 World Cup and the New Zealand T20Is, will captain the ODI side, while Abhishek and Arshdeep are part of the T20I squad. With a three-week gap between Indias final T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad on December 19 and the opening ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, this window can be utilised by all India players to play in the 50-over domestic competition for their respective states. Earlier, Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant had already been included in Delhis probables list, and the duo will be available for Delhi till Indias ODI series against New Zealand happens from January 11 to 17, 2026. Meanwhile, former skipper Rohit Sharma was also named in the Mumbai squad for the first two Vijay Hazare Trophy games. With a three-week gap between Indias final T20I against South Africa in Ahmedabad on December 19 and the opening ODI against New Zealand on January 11, 2026, in Vadodara, this window can be utilised by all India players to play in the 50-over domestic competition for their respective states. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, Arshdeep Singh, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Harnoor Pannu, Anmolpreet Singh, Uday Saharan, Naman Dhir, Salil Arora (wk), Sanvir Singh, Ramandeep Singh, Jashanpreet Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Harpreet Brar, Raghu Sharma, Krish Bhagat, Gourav Choudhary, Sukhdeep Bajwa Article Source: IANS
Nepal Name 24-player Group For Training Camp Ahead Of T20 WC
T20 World Cup Asia: Nepal have announced a 24-player group that will help determine their final squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup. The 24-player list that will attend a training camp ahead of the ICC Men's T20 World Cup will determine their final squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, with selectors needing to reduce the size of the group to 15 players prior to the next edition of the 20-over showcase in India and Sri Lanka, starting on February 7. Nepal have stuck with the 16 members that performed well when defeating the West Indies 2-1 during the T20I series in September and October and added a further eight players into contention, such as Sher Malla, Binod Bhandari, Abinash Bohara and Bashir Ahmed, who impressed during the recent Nepal Premier League, ICC reports. Nepal qualified for the 2026 T20 World Cup with an unbeaten run at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia-Pacific Regional Final in Oman in October and will compete in the tournament for a second consecutive time and third overall. Nepal are drawn in Group C at the T20 World Cup and will play against England, the West Indies, Bangladesh and Italy. The 20-team tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka across 29 days and eight venues (five in India and three in Sri Lanka). A total of 40 group matches will be played between February 7-20, with the top two sides from each group then progressing to the Super Eights phase of the tournament that commences on February 21. The 20-team tournament will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka across 29 days and eight venues (five in India and three in Sri Lanka). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Nepal training camp squad: Rohit Paudel, Dipendra Singh Airee, Sandeep Lamichhane, Kushal Bhurtel, Aasif Sheikh, Kushal Malla, Sundeep Jora, Gulshan Jha, Sompal Kami, Nandan Yadav, Lalit Rajbanshi, Lokesh Bam, Aarif Sheikh, Aadil Ansari, Karan KC, Sahab Alam, Sher Malla, Bhim Sharki, Ishan Pandey, Basir Ahamad, Binod Bhandari, Abinash Bohora, Pratish GC, Rupesh K Singh Article Source: IANS
Ashes: Jhye Richardson Likely To Be Added To Australias Camp Ahead Of Boxing Day Test
Boxing Day Test: Right-arm quick Jhye Richardson is likely to be included in the XI for the Boxing Day Test of the Ashes series after recovering from shoulder surgery. After undergoing surgery in January, Richardson returned to cricket with his club, Fremantle, last month. He also spent time with the Test squad ahead of the Ashes opener in Perth, before playing for a Cricket Australia XI and Australia A against England Lions. Richardson got a golden chance to push his claims for a Test recall after taking 4-35 against the England Lions, as he was called in to bowl with Australia's Test attack ahead of the third Ashes Test. With skipper Pat Cummins expected to sit out the Melbourne Test, and potentially the rest of the series, this will open the vacancy in the pace attack, meaning Richardson is very close to being in consideration. The fact that Richardson has been called into camp to bowl in front of the coaching staff shows he remains very much in Australia's plans, despite playing his last Test in December 2022. Moreover, with veteran spinner Nathan Lyon being ruled out of the series with a hamstring injury, Australia will need to figure out a replacement for the veteran of 141 Tests. Todd Murphy is likely the frontrunner to replace Lyon in the squad, with Corey Rocchiccioli, Matthew Kuhnemann, Mitch Swepson and Cooper Connolly also in the fray. Moreover, with veteran spinner Nathan Lyon being ruled out of the series with a hamstring injury, Australia will need to figure out a replacement for the veteran of 141 Tests. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Murphy was called in as Lyon's injury replacement during the 2023 Ashes and returned to the Test team against Sri Lanka in January this year, taking one wicket in Australia's innings victory. Article Source: IANS
For The Love: Former England pacer Stuart Broad has doubled down on his assertion that the current Australian side is the weakest Ashes team England have faced in 15 years, despite the hosts referencing his comments during their celebrations in Adelaide. Ahead of the series, Broad had claimed Australia were at their lowest ebb since England last won the Ashes in Australia in 201011, describing his assessment as not an opinion but a fact. He cited Australia's transition and uncertainty around selection as the basis for his view. Those remarks clearly resonated within the Australian camp. After Australia secured the Ashes with victory in the third Test in Adelaide, Marnus Labuschagne referenced Broads comments during a post-match interview with the ABC. Travis Head later added fuel to the fire by posting a photo of himself alongside captain Pat Cummins on social media, captioned Is it 2010 yet? followed by three laughing emojis. Speaking following Australias 82-run win that gave the hosts an unassailable 3-0 series lead, Broad maintained that his original comments still stood, arguing England had failed to perform anywhere near their potential. Do I regret saying that? No. I did say Australia would have to play very badly and England would have to play very well. Australia haven't played very badly, and England haven't played very well, Broad said on his For The Love of Cricket podcast. Speaking following Australias 82-run win that gave the hosts an unassailable 3-0 series lead, Broad maintained that his original comments still stood, arguing England had failed to perform anywhere near their potential. Also Read: Live Cricket Score From England's point of view, what would they have liked coming into this series? A lot of things have gone England's way. But England haven't been good enough ultimately. Australia have been relentless in what they've done. Do I think the 2013-14 (Australian team) man-for-man was a better side? Yes, probably still. I don't think individually they are better than any other team since 2010-11, but they've been relentless in the pressure they've managed to put on England. Article Source: IANS
Gill, Abhishek and Arshdeep named in Punjab's Vijay Hazare Trophy squad
How many games they will feature in, though, is unclear with India playing New Zealand in an ODI and T20I series starting January 11
Sachin Tendulkar and Cricket Legends Pay Emotional Tribute to Dharmendra
Veteran Bollywood star Dharmendra, 89, died recently after a long illness. A lot has been written about his films and his versatility. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan, India's third-highest civilian honour, for his work. He left a legacy in films, had a fan base that crosses borders and was equally popular in non-film zones which included sports. Thats why various sports persons also paid him glowing tributes describing him a legend and icon of Indian cinema, whose work left a lasting mark on the masses. Today, we have lost a legend of Indian cinema who captivated hearts with his charm and his talent. A true icon who inspired everyone who watched him, said Virat Kohli. I, like many others, took an instant liking to Dharmendra ji, the actor, who entertained us with his versatility. That on-screen bond became stronger off-screen when I met him. His energy was incredibly infectious, and he would always tell me, Tumko dekhkar ek kilo khoon badh jaata hai mera. He had an effortless warmth, making everyone around him feel valued and special. Aisa lagta hai jaise mera 10 kilo khoon kam ho gaya hai. Will miss you, said Sachin Tendulkar. Several Pakistani cricketers also paid a moving tribute to the star, calling him a global legend. Dharmendra ji was a legendary hero, and Sholay remains an all-time classic. He leaves behind a remarkable legacy across the subcontinent and was immensely popular in Pakistan as well. My deepest condolences, said former captain Rashid Latif. Dharmendra was a huge cricket fan and regularly followed the Indian cricket team and many a times openly praised players for their performances. Once he shared a photograph on social media of a chance encounter with Sachin Tendulkar on a flight and captioned it, Desh ke gauravshaali Sachin se aaj achanak hawai jahaz mein mulaqat ho gai. Sachin jab jab mila mujhe hamesha mera pyaara beta ban ke mila Jeete raho. Love you, Sachin. Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir also paid his condolences and revealed that Dharmendra was the favourite actor in his household. He added that his personality and charisma were like none other. Mohammed Siraj will also never forget him. On Indias historic Test series triumph against Australia in 2021, Dharmendra praised Indian pacer from his heart, not just for his heroics with the ball, but for his emotional strength. Siraj had remained with the Indian team despite the tragic loss of his father during the tour and fulfilled his late fathers dream of playing Test cricket. He claimed 13 wickets in the series and helped India in winning the series by 21. When Siraj returned India, he drove straight from the Hyderabad airport to Khairtabad graveyard to pay his respects to his father and this deeply moved Dharmendra, and he penned an emotional note, Siraj , Brave heart son of India Love you Naaz hai tujh par, dil par walid ki maut ka sdma liye tum watan ki Aan ke liye match khelte rahe ..aur ek unhoni jeet watan ke naam darj kar ke lote..Kal tujhe apne walid ki qabbr par dekh kar mun bhar aya. PT Usha, one of India's greatest athletes, often called the country's queen of track and field who won 23 medals in all, 14 of which were gold, is now a MP as well as the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). She recently shared a secret while paying a tribute to the late actor and disclosed that the Bollywood legend had gifted her a princely sum of Rs.50,000 as a private token of appreciation for her performance at the Seoul Asian Games 1986, where she won four gold and one silver medal. On an inflation calculator, that amount is worth approximately Rs.4.26 lakh today. The best part was that the gesture was made quietly, without disclosing to media, for publicity and never sought an acknowledgement. This was a sign of his humility and genuine support for sports. Incidentally PT Usha now regrets that she never got to meet Dharmendra in person, We couldn't meet personally due to our busy schedules but sometimes love & affection are enough to keep the hearts connected even 1000 miles apart. Veteran film star Sharmila Tagore remembered him with the note, Stardom can make people larger than life. Dharmendra, paradoxically, became larger by remaining human. She worked with him in many films and she also disclosed a cricket story. The India-West Indies Kolkata Test was played from 31 December 1966 to 5 January 1967, and the last day of the Test was the birthday of India captain Tiger (Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi). During those days Sharmila Tagore was dating Pataudi and wanted to wish him his birthday in person. At that time Sharmila Tagore and Dharmendra were working together filming Mere Hamdam Mere Dost. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She wanted to take an early morning flight from Mumbai to be in Kolkata for the match, and to celebrate Tigers birthday but also didnt want the producer to suffer due to her sudden absence. She requested Dharmendra for an all-nighter, which he graciously agreed and shot till 7 am. No disclosure, no story and he never spoke of the inconvenience of working the whole night. However, this gesture helped Sharmila to board the flight that morning, without a guilt of putting producer in any inconvenience or loss.
Duffy Is Operating At Peak Efficiency, Sensational Coup: Ashwin
World Test Championship: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin was full of praise for New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy, whose five-wicket haul on Day 5 of the final Test against West Indies on Monday helped his side clinch a 2-0 victory in the three-game series. Duffy registered 5/42 in the West Indies' second innings as the Caribbean side was dismissed for 138 while chasing an unlikely victory target of 462. The fast bowler also set a new New Zealand record, surpassing Kiwi legend Richard Hadlee's previous mark of 80 wickets in a calendar year, thanks to his third five-wicket haul of the series. Duffy will conclude the 2025 calendar year with 81 international wickets, setting a new record for the Black Caps. His 23 wickets throughout the series contributed to New Zealand's 2-0 series victory, marking a strong start to their World Test Championship campaign. The fast bowler also set a new New Zealand record, surpassing Kiwi legend Richard Hadlee's previous mark of 80 wickets in a calendar year, thanks to his third five-wicket haul of the series. Duffy will conclude the 2025 calendar year with 81 international wickets, setting a new record for the Black Caps. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On the fifth day at Mount Maunganui, Duffy led the charge as the hosts achieved a 323-run victory in the last session, having started the day with a likely draw. The fast bowler dismissed top-scorer Brandon King (67) and then tore through the middle order of Alick Athanaze, Justin Greaves, and Roston Chase, giving up just seven runs combined. He also took the final wicket, clinching the win. Article Source: IANS
Jhye Richardson closing in on return to Australia's Test squad
The quick bowler would bolster Australia's pace resources for Melbourne with Pat Cummins set to sit out
