Leicestershire facing relegation after 27-point pitch penalty
Club sanctioned for breaching the ECB's pitch regulations for home fixture against Glamorgan
Snubbed Rishabh Pant to captain Rest of India in Irani Cup
Rishabh Pant, recently excluded from India's white-ball squad, has been appointed captain of the Rest of India team for the upcoming Irani Cup match against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir.
PCB To Decide Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-Ul-Haq Fate After NCCIA Probe Into Alleged Dressing-Room Leaks
Experienced Pakistan cricketers Mohammad Rizwan and Imam-ul-Haq are set to await the findings of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA).
'Series Going Well...India Will Win Third Match As Well,' Rajiv Shukla On Afghanistan T20Is
Afghanistan T20Is: Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) vice-president and MP Rajiv Shukla has expressed confidence that the Indian men's team will win the third T20I too and complete a clean sweep. India will take on Afghanistan in the third and final match of the T20I series after winning the first two matches played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. The series is going very well. We have already won the series, and we will win the third match as well, Rajiv Shukla told IANS on the sidelines of an event in New Delhi on Wednesday. With the series already secured, India will look to use the third and final T20I against Afghanistan as an opportunity to fine-tune their squad ahead of the Asian Games, with the Arun Jaitley Stadium set to host the contest on Thursday. The match comes after India produced virtually identical seven-wicket victories in the opening two games. They successfully chased targets of 157 and 160, respectively, leaving Afghanistan with little to show despite moments of individual brilliance. The second T20I followed a familiar pattern. Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell for a second straight duck before Ibrahim Zadrans 37 provided Afghanistan with some stability. Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan then added 48 for the sixth wicket, helping their side reach 159/8. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Arshdeep Singh claimed five wickets between them. Indias response was largely comfortable, with Sanju Samsons 57, Abhishek Sharmas 39 and Ishan Kishans unbeaten 38 guiding the hosts home. Meanwhile, on Wednesday, the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) hosted the Indian cricket team for a dinner at which the Indian players talked about their experience of playing Afghanistan, as well as their familiarity with their players. Indias response was largely comfortable, with Sanju Samsons 57, Abhishek Sharmas 39 and Ishan Kishans unbeaten 38 guiding the hosts home. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Indian opener Abhishek Sharma said playing against Afghanistan is a good experience for young players as they play an aggressive brand of cricket. Article Source: IANS
Randell dents Northants promotion hopes as Derbyshire eke out slender lead
Hosts concede first-innings lead as rivals Kent close in on three-day win
Bouchier ton, Wellington five-for seal final spot for Hampshire
Freya Kemp and Abi Norgrove chip in with fifties to thrash Surrey
Amazon Warriors in final after winning eight-over shootout
They will next face TKR in the final in Barbados on Thursday
Daaryoush, Kishore dig deep as Gloucestershire frustrate Middlesex
Eighth-wicket stand rescue hosts from depths of 128 for 7 to close in on parity
Sussex build imposing lead as Notts' title bid comes under pressure
Clark, Price and Tear make half-centuries to take the initiative at halfway mark at Hove
Kent keep promotion prospects on track as Lancashire face further defeat
Hosts need a further 56 runs on third day in low-scoring clash at Canterbury
Shreyas Iyer, Mohammad Nabi Highlight Strong India vs Afghanistan Cricketing Bond At 'Koh-E-Zafar'
The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) hosted 'Koh-e-Zafar' (Mountain of Triumph), a special event on Wednesday, bringing together officials from the ACB and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI)
Nabi,Dhirget maidenODIcall-ups for West Indiesseries
Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli and Ravindra Jadeja are all part of the ODI series against the men from the Caribbean, providing vast experience to the Shubman Gill-led squad
Tahir: People remind me that I'm one of the oldest guys in world cricket
Under Tahir, Guyana Amazon Warriors are out to win their second CPL title
Pakistan Seeks Neutral Venue For Its Matches In Asian Champions Trophy To Be Played In Punjab
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann: A few days after Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann announced that the Pakistan hockey team will be travelling to India for the Asian Champions Trophy, the Pakistan Hockey Federation has sought a neutral venue for their matches for the tournament to be played in Mohali. The PHF has reportedly approached the Asian Hockey Federation, asking it to shift its matches to a neutral venue for the tournament, to be held from October 27 to November 5, to ensure the country's uninterrupted and full participation. Hosts India, Pakistan, China, Japan, Malaysia, and Korea are scheduled to participate in the event to be played in Jalandhar and Mohali. PHF President Mohiuddin Ahmed Wani said in a statement that the decision aimed to ensure a safe, dignified, and conducive environment for the national players and officials. We are ready to play against all FIH member countries, including India, he said, adding that the PHF remained committed to the principle of keeping sports free from politics. Pakistan news outlet Geo TV reported that the PHF president expressed hope that the AHF would positively consider Pakistans proposal for a neutral venue to ensure the countrys uninterrupted and full participation in the tournament. The change in the PHF stance came two days after Wani had clarified that the team's travel to India is subject to government clearance. The visit of the Pakistan team will depend on government clearance. We will do whatever the government asks us to do, Wani had said. A freeze in political relations between India and Pakistan has resulted in teams from both countries not travelling across the border to participate in sports events. The Indian men's cricket team was not allowed to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2025 and played its matches in neutral UAE. The ICC tried to hammer out a compromise, making it mandatory to have a neutral venue for events hosted by each country. A freeze in political relations between India and Pakistan has resulted in teams from both countries not travelling across the border to participate in sports events. The Indian men's cricket team was not allowed to travel to Pakistan for the Asia Cup 2025 Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Now, it seems the Pakistan Hockey Federation wants a similar treatment for its men's hockey team, even though the sport does not have a neutral venue concept. Article Source: IANS
Craig Overton hits back amid Ben Cliff's eight-wicket haul
Somerset step closer to maiden four-day title as talismanic allrounder leads with bat and ball
Bangladesh to tour Nepal for three T20Is in March 2027
It will be the first international bilateral series between the two countries
India eyes whitewash, Afghanistan hopes to salvage a win
Since July 2024, the Men in Blue have won 23 out of 27 T20Is in India, including winning the T20I world Cup as well as every bilateral assignment in India in this phase.
Adam Hose, Brett D'Oliveira repel relentless Ben Stokes
England's former Test captain dug deep for the newly-crowned Division Two champions
Suthar spins through Essex to seize title initiative for Warwickshire
Eight-wicket win propels visitors to top of table as hosts look in other direction
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Father Asked About Teenager's Absence In India XI vs Afghanistan. His Reply
For the second match running against Afghanistan, the Indian team went ahead with Sanju Samson in place of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi as the preferred opener
India will play three ODIs and five T20Is against the West Indies starting September 27 in Thiruvananthapuram
Nabi,Dhirget maidenODIcall-ups for WIseries
Rizwan challenges NCCIA summons in Lahore High Court
Rizwan is understood to have raised questions about the nature of the investigation and about the jurisdiction of the NCCIA
Rishabh Pant and Hardik Pandya will not be involved in India's forthcoming white-ball series against the West Indies after the selectors named the ODI and T20I squads on Wednesday. The news regarding the exclusion of Rishabh Pant is among the most
Why Pietersen's influence can benefit Brook in Test cricket too
England's white-ball captain and new mentor are kindred spirits, whatever the format
Naman Dhir, Aquib Nabi get maiden ODI call-ups for West Indies series
Ravindra Jadeja is back in the ODI fold, having last played a 50-over international in January
Davis Cup | An even contest in the offing on the hard-courts of Seoul
Irani Cup: Pant to lead Rest of India; Sarfaraz named vice-captain
Akash Deep, who last played a competitive game in February, has been included, subject to fitness
Vipraj Nigam Called Up As Injured Chakaravarthy Ruled Out Of Asian Games
Japan T20I: Young leg-spinner Vipraj Nigam has been called up to replace the injured Varun Chakaravarthy in Indias squad for the upcoming Japan T20I and the Asian Games, the BCCI announced on Wednesday. Chakaravarthy has been ruled out of both assignments after suffering a side strain. The Men's Selection Committee has named Nigam as his replacement, and all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, initially in the Asian Games squad, has been withdrawn from the continental event and will now be part of India's upcoming ODI series against the West Indies. The selection committee also announced India's squads for the white-ball home series against West Indies and the Rest of India squad for the Irani Cup clash against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu & Kashmir. The series against West Indies will have three ODIs and five T20Is starting September 27. Shubman Gill will lead the ODI side, with Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also named in the squad. Shreyas Iyer will be in charge of the T20I team, the side comprising a combination of experienced players and young talent such as Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson and Tilak Varma. The ODI series will start in Thiruvananthapuram on September 27 and then go to Guwahati and New Chandigarh. The five-match T20I series will take place in Lucknow, Ranchi, Indore, Hyderabad and Bengaluru. Rishabh Pant has been named the captain of the Rest of India team for the Irani Cup match versus Jammu & Kashmir, and Sarfaraz Khan has been named his deputy; the squad also includes Akash Deep, provided that he passes a fitness check. The Irani Cup squad includes several players who have featured prominently in domestic cricket, with Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Anukul Roy and Mukesh Kumar among those selected. India ODI squad vs West Indies Shubman Gill (C), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ruturaj Gaikwad, KL Rahul (VC), Dhruv Jurel, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar, Mohammed Siraj, Auqib Nabi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Naman Dhir. India T20I squad vs West Indies Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Ishan Kishan (WK), Sanju Samson (WK), Tilak Varma (VC), Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, Mayank Yadav. Rest of the India squad for the Irani Cup Rishabh Pant (C, WK), Sanat Sangwan, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, Sarfaraz Khan (VC), Smaran Ravichandran, Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Akash Deep*, Mukesh Kumar, Mukesh Choudhary, Aryan Juyal (WK), Aryan Pandey, Anukul Roy, Ayush Doseja. *Subject to fitness clearance. Rishabh Pant (C, WK), Sanat Sangwan, Shikhar Mohan, Sudip Gharami, Sarfaraz Khan (VC), Smaran Ravichandran, Manav Suthar, Saransh Jain, Akash Deep*, Mukesh Kumar, Mukesh Choudhary, Aryan Juyal (WK), Aryan Pandey, Anukul Roy, Ayush Doseja. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Shreyas Iyer (C), Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Shivam Dube, Tilak Varma (VC), Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Ravi Bishnoi, Jasprit Bumrah, Arshdeep Singh, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Yash Thakur, Vipraj Nigam. Article Source: IANS
Thailand's Natthakan Chantham Wants To Master Suryakumar's 'Supla Shot'
Thailand women's team batter Natthakan Chantham is attempting to incorporate Suryakumar Yadav's unique 'Supla shot' into her T20 game, despite initial difficulties, and also admires India's Shubman Gill for his effortless batting.
Varun Chakravarthy ruled out of Japan T20I and Asian Games, Vipraj Nigam named replacement
Nitish Kumar Reddy, who was in the Asian Games squad, has been withdrawn and will now feature in the ODI series against West Indies
Asian Champions Trophy: Pakistan Seeks Neutral Venue for All Matches, Wants Event Moved From India
Pakistan have asked the Asian Hockey Federation to either move the 2026 Men's Asian Champions Trophy from India or to arrange for all Pakistan matches to take place at a neutral venue, sparking a new diplomatic row over the event. The
Babar Azam Returns To First-Class Cricket After England Tour Debacle
Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam is set to play his first domestic first-class match since 2019, a move that follows the Pakistan Cricket Board's controversial decision to send back seven players and sack coaches after the recent Test tour of England.
India have had a perfect start to the three-T20I series against Afghanistan
Nilakshika Silva out of Asian Games with finger injury
Sri Lanka have picked Anushka Sanjeewani, Hansima Karunaratne and Rashmika Sewwandi in the 15-member squad
'Smriti Mandhana's extreme domination against spinners sets new benchmark'
Former India captain Anjum Chopra praises Smriti Mandhana's evolved power game and dominance against spinners, calling it a blueprint for younger players in women's T20 cricket.
Lancashire Women Confirm Seven Departures, Cross And Morris Set To Retire
Vitality T20 County Cup: Lancashire Women will undergo a significant squad transition at the end of the 2026 season, with seven first-team players set to leave the club, including England great Kate Cross and all-rounder Fi Morris, who will both retire when their current contracts expire. Seren Smale, Hannah Jones, Liv Bell, Alice Clarke and Danni Collins will also depart after reaching the end of their respective deals, bringing the curtain down on several notable Lancashire careers. Cross leaves as one of the most decorated players to have represented the Red Rose. Having played for Lancashire across both the amateur and professional eras, she has made more than 200 appearances for the club and claimed 244 wickets. Her international career with England saw her make 102 appearances and take 140 wickets, while she also captained the national side in 2024. Morris joined the club in 2023 and went on to make a significant contribution with both bat and ball. She accumulated more than 1,000 runs and took over 50 wickets for Thunder and Lancashire. Her impact was particularly evident in 2025, when Lancashire secured both the Vitality T20 County Cup and Metro Bank One-Day Cup. Smale, another product of Lancashires pathway, leaves having passed 2,000 runs across formats for Thunder and Lancashire. Her 72 in last seasons One-Day Cup final proved particularly influential as Lancashire lifted the trophy. Jones, a Manchester-born left-arm spinner and Red Rose Academy graduate, departs with 122 wickets for the club across formats. She played a key role in the 2025 One-Day Cup triumph, taking 14 wickets during the campaign. Bells standout year came in 2023, when she made her Thunder debut and claimed 25 wickets across formats. The Scotland international was also part of her countrys squad at the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup. Jones, a Manchester-born left-arm spinner and Red Rose Academy graduate, departs with 122 wickets for the club across formats. She played a key role in the 2025 One-Day Cup triumph, taking 14 wickets during the campaign. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories David Thorley, Director of Womens Cricket at Lancashire, said, We would like to extend our thanks to the seven players departing the Club at the end of the season. A massive congratulations goes out to Kate and Fi for what they have achieved throughout their careers. They have served the Club with distinction, and we wish them the very best of luck in their retirement. We would also like to wish Seren, Hannah, Liv, Alice and Danni well in their future cricketing endeavours. We thank them for their effort and commitment throughout their time with the Red Rose. Article Source: IANS
BCCI Chief Manhas, Team India Meet Japan Ambassador Ahead Of Historic T20I
His Excellency Mr Ono Keiichi: BCCI president Mithun Manhas and members of the Indian mens cricket team, led by captain Shreyas Iyer, met Japans Ambassador to India, ONO Keiichi, on Wednesday ahead of the historic T20I between India and Japan in Sano later this month. The meeting underlined the growing sporting ties between the two countries, with Ambassador ONO presenting Manhas and the Indian team with a Daruma, a traditional Japanese good-luck charm. The special gesture came ahead of the Suzuki Cup, which will see India and Japan face each other in a mens T20I for the first time on September 22 at the Sano International Cricket Ground in Tochigi Prefecture. Sharing pictures from the meeting, Manhas said the occasion was significant as cricket prepares to reach a new audience in Japan. It was a pleasure to meet His Excellency Mr Ono Keiichi, Ambassador of Japan to India @JapanAmbIndia, along with #TeamIndia in Delhi today. This is a special moment as cricket reaches a new audience in Japan, and one that reflects the vision championed by Mr @JayShah of taking our sport to new territories and making it truly global, Manhas wrote on X. We are proud to build on that vision and strengthen crickets presence in new parts of the world. The excitement for this historic fixture and the Asian Games is building! he added. Ambassador ONO also shared pictures from the meeting, saying he was delighted to meet Manhas and the Indian team led by Iyer. Dosti ki Nayi Innings, delighted to meet @BCCI President @MithunManhas and Team India led by Captain @ShreyasIyer15. Looking forward to the SUZUKI CUP India-Japan 75th Anniversary Cricket Match in Sano, Tochigi, Japan, on 22 September! Best wishes for the 20th Asian Games, he wrote on X. The Suzuki Cup is being organised as part of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Japan. It is also the first step of the Sport 75 initiative, which seeks to promote sporting exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. The match will also mark Indias first international cricket fixture in Japan and the first-ever international meeting between the mens teams of India and Japan. The Suzuki Cup is being organised as part of celebrations marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Japan. It is also the first step of the Sport 75 initiative, which seeks to promote sporting exchanges and cooperation between the two countries. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The match comes just days before the start of the mens cricket competition at the 2026 Asian Games, where both India and Japan are set to participate. India will be using the fixture as part of its preparations for the continental event. Article Source: IANS
It's sort of a deja vu. After 2025, it's the same story in 2026. After the men's team, now the women's cricket team has refused to receive the Asia Cup trophy from Pakistan's Mohsin Naqvi
WPL 2027 to be played from January 14 to February 7
The player auction will be held in Kochi on October 28
Selection meeting delayed! Indian team for Windies ODIs to be named tonight
The selection committee meeting to pick the Indian team for the three-match ODI series against the West Indies has been postponed to 7pm, in New Delhi on Wednesday.
Pakistan Cricket In Turmoil? Aaqib Javed Responds To Removal Reports With Blunt Message
Pakistan national selector Aaqib Javed on Tuesday dismissed reports of his impending resignation or removal from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as fake news.
'Want Afghanistan To Win One World Cup By The Time I Am In The Team,' Says Rashid Khan
Arun Jaitley Stadium: There is a particular kind of calm about Rashid Khan these days. The leg-spinner who once seemed to exist purely as a wicket-taking force of nature is now at his warm and affable self on the eve of the third T20I against India, a game which Afghanistan have to win to avoid a 3-0 series defeat. On Tuesday night at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where Afghanistan faltered yet again, Rashid was the exception for the designated hosts: 28 with the bat, and 3-36 with the ball. The runs, in particular, were not an accident, so as were the three boundaries he hit off Arshdeep Singh in the 18th over (with the inside-out loft over cover for six being the standout). They were the product of a shift that began the day he walked into the Gujarat Titans dressing room in the IPL and was told he was no longer merely a bowler who could swing a bat. I have always wanted to bat; I started playing cricket by batting. I always wanted to bat. For a team, 20-25 runs are very important, and I wanted to do that for my team, especially in T20s. So how can I do that? Earlier, I didn't get that much batting. But since I came to Gujarat Titans, I have been getting more batting in the net sessions. Ashish (Nehra) bhai told me that I will play as a batter too and not just as a bowler. So, I focused more on batting. By working on and improving my batting, when I make runs in the match, I automatically get more confidence. It comes from confidence, and when that goes high, the practice and hard work pay off, Rashid told IANS in an exclusive interaction facilitated by Red Bull on Wednesday. The technical work and success in batting have been made possible by someone who is not someone who appears in the headlines. Naeem Amin, who Rashid met during his time at Gujarat Titans, is the man the premier leg-spinner calls first when something feels off. Amin, who also trained India stars Virat Kohli and Hardik Pandya before they were in England, was quick to message Rashid after Tuesdays game was over. He has helped me a lot. To be honest, all my improved batting has been done by Naeem Amin. Not just in batting, but also in bowling. I always talk with him. Last night, when the match was over, he messaged me, saying that I had a lot of fun. But what I enjoyed the most was when you hit a six over mid-off against Arshdeep - that was the best effort for me. To be honest, before we came here, I had done 3-4 sessions with him. We were working on how to play straight, how to hit a straight six, and not hit cross-bat. He was very happy that I hit a straight six. He helped me a lot. My go-to person is Naeem Amin. I go to him and ask him what I did wrong and what I can do better. If Afghanistan's arrival as a side capable of beating anyone has a starting point, Rashid places it squarely at the 2023 ODI World Cup in India - the tournament where the underdog tag stopped being an excuse and started being a weapon. It also has a New Delhi connection they beat the then-reigning champions England and sent their loyal supporters back home in euphoria. Exactly, everything started from here. In the 2023 World Cup, we defeated England, then we defeated Sri Lanka and Pakistan -- we defeated big teams. Australia was also close, but it was an innings Maxwell played and changed the game. In the 2024 World Cup, we defeated New Zealand, then we defeated Australia and reached the semifinal, recalls Rashid. The list has only grown since. But Rashid is wary of a team that celebrates upsets rather than expects results, and he keeps returning to the same word. In the Champions Trophy, we defeated England in Pakistan. It was a great achievement for us in the last 3-4 years. That's when our cricket reached another level. Now, it's a tough challenge for us to maintain consistency. We want to do it again and again -- we don't just do it once, and that's it. That is because when you do it again and again, that's when you show consistency. It's a big challenge for us. It was a tough match for us against South Africa in the T20 World Cup; we played in a double super-over, and we didn't win the match. I think it's a positive thing that we played well and performed well. We will try to do better. We will try to find a way to defeat big teams again and again. When there is pressure, we will control ourselves and focus on our skills. The one subject on which Rashid's fluency briefly deserts him is the T20I captaincy role, which he held till Afghanistan exited this years T20 World Cup at the group stage. When that captaincy was taken from him and given to Ibrahim Zadran, Rashid let out a laugh. Le li (it was taken). I mean, I don't understand. Whatever happens, it will be for the good. We don't know what the future holds for us. For me, it was my destiny to lead Afghanistan to this much. It was the same for Jonathan Trott. It was his destiny. I always wanted to lead the team and do well. But there are some things that you can't control. You have to accept, as a player, that you have to move on and play for the country. I know it's not there, but hopefully, Ibrahim is a good young guy. We all know how skilful he is. Hopefully, he can lead the team and win more matches in Afghanistan. For a cricketer whose career was briefly affected by back surgery after the 2023 ODI World Cup and extensive pain management after that, the most significant scoreline of 2026 is no complaints, no pain, no management plans. To achieve that, red-ball cricket, Rashids favourite format, has been put on the back burner. It's been sabse zabardast (very fantastic). I want every year to be like this one only 2026. I want to perform well and try to do well. So far, it's great in both formats, T20 and ODIs. The biggest thing is that my back supports me a lot. It helps me a lot, and I don't get any complaints from my back. So, I'm so happy about that. That turnaround, he says, owes a great deal to a few days in Austria at Red Bull's High Performance Centre in Salzburg, Australia, where the diagnosis was less about treatment for the back. Yes, it was very important. I was struggling a lot with my back. Then, I went to Red Bull's High Performance Centre in Austria. I wanted to do a full-body check-up to see where I could do better and the areas where my back was having problems. Even after the surgery, I was getting pain little by little. The 2-3 days that I spent there were very big days for me because I did a check-up of my whole body and found out my strengths and weaknesses. I was so impressed with it that I wanted to go again. Inshallah, I will go there for 2-3 weeks for training only. It was a good experience where I clearly got an idea of my body. We did a full-body check-up, and then for half a day, we sat with the physiotherapists and discussed the areas that needed to be improved by showing them on the screen. That really helped me and gave me a clear picture of where I do better. It's simple for me. Apart from the recovery, the nutrition aspect has been super simple for Rashid, whose favourite food is Dal Makhani. It's simple for me. I don't exercise too much, don't do much extra dieting, or eat everything, and I try to keep it simple. I am not strict - like, I don't have a weight machine with me, and I eat too much or too little, and I try to eat only what is good for myself and my health, as if you become rigid, then the guy becomes mentally affected. Sometimes, I feel like I want to eat biryani today and then have it once a week. I mean, too many restrictions are also not fine like no biryani at all. But I try to eat as much healthy food as possible. We all know what is healthy and what is not. You don't ask anyone about that. The more you eat healthy food, the less unhealthy stuff you eat, and your diet automatically goes as per that. I don't focus much on high-protein things. Whatever the body wishes to eat, I do that to give it sukoon (peace). If the body is happy, then you are also happy. Ask him what has changed most in the last 12 months and the answer has nothing to do with cricket. Rashid's son, Azlan, has rewired how quickly he can leave a bad day behind and, going by his own admission, that has had a startling effect on his wicket column. Before he was born, my mind wouldn't get fresh quickly. But now when I see his face or video-call him, my whole body relaxes. He is also a lucky charm for me. Since he came to the ground for the first match in England, I took five wickets. Then, in 3 matches, he came to Ireland, and I took 12 scalps. He is a lucky charm. He woke up during last night's match and watched it when I picked three wickets. He was sleeping in the previous match, and that's why my performance was not good. He is my happiness. He is my lucky charm. It's a different feeling. With a younger group now coming through, Rashid and his contemporaries find themselves in the role of custodians - telling the newcomers not just where Afghanistan cricket is, but what it cost to get here. We do talk to them. But we have put in a lot of effort, practised a lot, and given a lot of qurbani (sacrifices). All of it was done by the senior players, and I think this stage is the result of that. It's not like we got some things for free. We have put in a lot of effort. It's a matter of where we started to where we are now like from starting by playing against small teams to beating big sides. We do talk about it, but how to bring consistency in that and defeat them constantly and always bring in good performances. Home, for this team, is largely an idea sustained across hotel rooms in other countries, including playing away games. Rashid's squad packs it the only way it can - in small, edible, and familiar things. It's difficult to take so many things from Afghanistan with us. We don't spend much time in Afghanistan. But people's love and prayers are always with us, wherever we go. We can't take anything else with us, apart from their love and prayers. But we do carry the most famous dry fruits in Afghanistan to bring that home-like feeling. Like we eat dry fruits and have green tea in Afghanistan. We do the same around it so that we get back that feeling. Hopefully one day we can play an international match in Afghanistan - in Kabul and other cities. It's going to be a dream. New Delhi, meanwhile, is a city he knows well enough to have a favourite haunt he can no longer visit in peace Mazaar, a popular Afghan cuisine serving restaurant in Lajpat Nagar, a place where the diaspora is supremely active, apart from Bhogal in Jangpura. It's very difficult to go to Lajpat Nagar now. Before, it was fun going there no one would recognise us, and we would go to easily eat food and have fun. But it's difficult now, though at the same time, it's good the food comes from there, and we eat in the hotel. But it's still good. For all the records, franchise titles and wickets in every league on planet Earth, Rashid's definition of a career well spent will come down to a single, unclaimed piece of silverware an ICC title. Afghanistan came within touching distance of it in the 2024 Mens T20 World Cup, when they entered the semi-finals. It's very difficult to go to Lajpat Nagar now. Before, it was fun going there no one would recognise us, and we would go to easily eat food and have fun. But it's difficult now, though at the same time, it's good the food comes from there, and we eat in the hotel. But it's still good. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories But the most important thing is that I want Afghanistan to win one World Cup by the time I am there in the team. I think this will be a big achievement for me. I hope that before I retire, I have this in the book that yes, we won the championship or a World Cup, whether it is T20 or ODI, he signed off. Article Source: IANS
Amol Muzumdar Sends Strong Message As India Women Arrive In Japan For Asian Games Gold Defence
The Indian women's cricket team head coach Amol Muzumdar said his players are eagerly looking forward to the unique atmosphere of the Asian Games.
Women's Premier League 2027 To Be Staged From January 14 To February 7
The Player Retention deadline is set for September 28
WPL 2027 to be held in January-February
The fifth edition of the Women's Premier League (WPL) is scheduled from January 14 to February 7, 2027, with the player auction slated for October 28 in Kochi, the BCCI confirmed.
Arun Jaitley Stadium: Afghanistan's premier leg-spinner Rashid Khan has admitted that his side were unable to read the conditions well in both T20Is against India and paid the price for a sluggish powerplay and poor shot selection, as the designated hosts suffered another seven-wicket loss on Tuesday to concede the series to the Shreyas Iyer-led side. Afghanistan were restricted to 159/8, a total that never looked like enough on a surface where big scores have been the norm and India chased it down easily in 14.5 overs. It now leaves Afghanistan to salvage pride in the final game happening at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Thursday. Well, we didn't read the conditions properly. I think the way it should have been, it hasn't happened. We have played a lot in Delhi and you have to post 200-210-220 runs if you want to win the match. So, according to me, we collapsed in the batting and didn't utilise the power-play properly. I think our shot selection was not at that level. So, we can improve on this. This is a good learning for us and next time, we will play with a better mind and better shot selection, Rashid told IANS in an exclusive interaction facilitated by Red Bull on Wednesday. Amid the gloom, Rashid was one of the few bright spots for his team, striking 28 with the bat before returning to claim 3-36 with the ball. His contribution with the willow came after a forgettable outing in the series opener, an innings he said had left him disappointed with himself and made him determined to bat with far greater intent. In the first match, I played ten balls and scored only one run. I was feeling very bad. Looking at the scoreboard, I said, 'This is not me. How can I score 1 run off 10 balls? So, I had the mind that the next time I go, I will show the intent, play positively, and use the experience to play for a good team. I tried to play with proper energy from ball one. At that time, the team needed runs. Still, 159 on that wicket was not enough. But I tried to stretch it as much as I could. If I could put more runs on the board, then I did and that's why it was a little peaceful, he added. Rashid, who has long been among the most economical bowlers in the shortest format via 196 scalps in T20Is and 739 wickets in T20s, stated that his approach with the ball on a batting-friendly pitch was built on keeping things uncomplicated and backing his plans regardless of the outcome of any single delivery. Well, my bowling was a simple plan. If I think more, I will get hit for runs. If I think less, it will be good for me. The plan was simple. Where do I want to bowl? Which batter do I want to bowl and in which way? Yes, you can get hit for a six. But if you stick to your plan, you will succeed. So, this was my plan - no matter what happens, no matter what they do, either hit fours or sixes aplenty, I have to execute my plan first. If I execute my plan, I will automatically get good results, he added. The obsession with AI worldwide has reached the Afghanistan dressing room too, as Rashid laughingly recalled a conversation after Tuesdays defeat. There's a very funny incident. After yesterday's game got over and we came back, Mujeeb was saying, 'I will ask AI over where I should bowl to Abhishek?' Everything nowadays is on AI. My timepass also happens with AI. I ask very strange questions to it and then try to see what it says. So, this was my plan - no matter what happens, no matter what they do, either hit fours or sixes aplenty, I have to execute my plan first. If I execute my plan, I will automatically get good results, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The endeavour is always to try to bowl in good areas and that's my mantra of success. I don't try to do too much bowl well in good areas, more success will come. But if you bowl less in good areas, then you will get less success. Article Source: IANS
WPL 2027 To Begin On January 14, Auction On October 28 In Kochi
WPL Player Auction: The fifth edition of the Womens Premier League (WPL) will be played from January 14 to February 7, 2027, with the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announcing the key dates for the upcoming season on Wednesday. The first major deadline on the road to the new campaign will be the player retention deadline on September 28, giving the five franchises an opportunity to decide which members of their existing squads they want to retain. The next stage of squad-building will take place at the WPL Player Auction on October 28. The auction will be held at the Grand Hyatt Kochi, where franchises will seek to fill gaps and finalise their combinations for the fifth season. The 2027 tournament will follow the 2026 edition, in which Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their second WPL title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final. The league continues to feature five franchises, RCB, DC, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz, and provides a platform for both established international players and emerging Indian talent. The retention window will be particularly significant as franchises assess their squads ahead of the auction. With the five teams required to build balanced combinations across batting, bowling and all-round options, decisions made in September will shape their approach in Kochi a month later. The 2027 tournament will follow the 2026 edition, in which Royal Challengers Bengaluru claimed their second WPL title by defeating Delhi Capitals in the final. The league continues to feature five franchises, RCB, DC, Mumbai Indians, Gujarat Giants and UP Warriorz, and provides a platform for both established international players and emerging Indian talent. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With the dates now confirmed, the immediate focus shifts to the franchises and their retention plans. Once those decisions are made by September 28, attention will turn to Kochi, where the October 28 auction will provide the next major step towards assembling the squads for the 2027 season. Article Source: IANS
India's bench strength and Naveen-ul-Haq's match-fitness in focus for final T20I
Despite having Farooqi in the XI, Afghanistan did not use him with the new ball. Could Naveen's return add heft to their seam attack?
Impact Player rule under consideration; IPL auction to take place in India, confirms Arun Dhumal
The IPL 2027 player auction is set to return to India after the recent practice of conducting the event overseas. The decision was taken at the Governing Council meeting on September 15. It will be a mini-auction, while the following years mega auction could once again be staged outside India, according to sources familiar with the developments.
AFG vs IND: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of 3rd T20I, Afghanistan vs India series 2026
AFG vs IND 3rd T20I,Approaching Milestones and Records :After an easy win in the first game, Team India recorded another win in the second T20I against the Afghanistan cricket team in Delhi. Nitish Kumar Reddy came good with the ball and recorded a figure of 3/24 to make the difference. He won his second Man of the Match award in just his sixth T20I match. Sanju Samson also gave a fitting reply to his critics with a 20-ball fifty, scoring 57 off 22 balls. Abhishek Sharma scored a quickfire 39 off 19 balls, whereas Ishan Kishan scored an unbeaten 38 off 23 balls. Afghanistan had another disappointing batting display, and they failed. With the ball, they didn't have much to defend. Team India have won the series, and they will be aiming to make it 3-0. The final T20I will kick off at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. This a dead rubber game and India should give chance to those who have not played yet. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the AFG vs IND 3rd T20I at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. AFG vs IND: Approaching Test Records and Cricket Milestones Ahead of the AFG vs IND 3rd T20I at Arun Jaitley Stadium 87 - Captain Ibrahim Zadran needs 87 more runs to become only the fourth Afghan batter to score 2000 runs in T20I cricket. He will become the fastest Afghan batter to do so. He is also five sixes away from reaching 50 T20I sixes. 20 - Abhishek Sharma needs 200 runs to become the sixth highest scorer for India in T20I cricket, surpassing Shikhar Dhawan (1759). 1 - Samson completed 1000 T20I runs as opener in the last game. He needs one more run to complete 1500 runs in this format for India. 76 - Indian Captain Shreyas Iyer is just 76 runs away from completing 1500 T20I runs. 6 - Six more wickets and Rashid Khan will become the first bowler to reach the world record of 200 T20I wickets. 4 - Ishan Kishan needs four runs to surpass Karanbir Singh (Austria) and become the leading scorer in T20I in 2026. 4 - Samson needs four sixes to surpass Suryakumar Yadav (429) and will have the third-most T20 sixes by an Indian. 2 - Ishan Kishan needs two more sixes to reach 350 T20 sixes. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 23 - Sanju Samson is just 23 runs away from becoming the only fifth Indian with 9000 T20 runs.
AFG Vs IND: When And Where To Watch Third T20I, Know All Details
Arun Jaitley Stadium: With the series already secured, India will look to use the third and final T20I against Afghanistan as an opportunity to fine-tune their squad ahead of the Asian Games, with the Arun Jaitley Stadium set to host the contest on Thursday. The match comes after India produced virtually identical seven-wicket victories in the opening two games. They successfully chased targets of 157 and 160, respectively, leaving Afghanistan with little to show despite moments of individual brilliance. The second T20I followed a familiar pattern. Rahmanullah Gurbaz fell for a second straight duck before Ibrahim Zadrans 37 provided Afghanistan with some stability. Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan then added 48 for the sixth wicket, helping their side reach 159/8. Nitish Kumar Reddy and Arshdeep Singh claimed five wickets between them. Indias response was largely comfortable, with Sanju Samsons 57, Abhishek Sharmas 39 and Ishan Kishans unbeaten 38 guiding the hosts home. The result leaves India with a selection decision for the finale. Shreyas Iyer indicated after Tuesdays win that changes could be made, particularly with the team due to travel to Japan for the Asian Games, which begin on September 19. That could open the door for players who have remained on the sidelines, including teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Sooryavanshi, the Player of the Series in Indias recent Zimbabwe T20I campaign, has not featured in this series. Samson, meanwhile, returned after being rested in Zimbabwe and has responded with form, while Abhishek has also contributed at the top. With both being established one-format players, breaking up the opening combination may not be an automatic decision. Ravi Bishnoi is expected to retain his place after coming in for the injured Varun Chakravarthy. Afghanistan could also consider a pace change, with Naveen-ul-Haq having yet to feature despite being fit. Fazalhaq Farooqi, meanwhile, has gone wicketless in the series. The Delhi conditions could again favour the batters, with short boundaries potentially encouraging another high-scoring encounter. Thunderstorms are forecast, with around 75 per cent cloud cover expected, making conditions worth monitoring before the start. For India, the final game is less about the series result and more about determining who can make an impact before the Asian Games assignment begins. For Afghanistan, it offers one last chance to disrupt an otherwise one-sided contest. When: Thursday, September 17, 7:30 PM IST Where: Arun Jaitley Stadium, New Delhi Where to watch: The match will be shown live on Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD channels. Live-streaming will be available on the FanCode app and website. Squads: Where to watch: The match will be shown live on Sony Sports Ten 5 SD & HD channels. Live-streaming will be available on the FanCode app and website. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Afghanistan: Ibrahim Zadran (c), Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Noor Rahman (wk), Sediqullah Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Gulbadin Naib, Mohammad Nabi, Rashid Khan, Nangyal Kharoti, Noor Ahmad, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fazal Haq Farooqi, Abdullah Ahmadzai and Naveen-ul-Haq. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2027 auction likely to return to India, says league chairman Arun Dhumal
Every year we try for this to happen in India, but we don't get the venue given the heavy marriage season. So, we definitely want it to be here this year, given that it would be a smaller auction and hopefully we will get the venue, Arun Dhumal said
Varun Chakravarthy ruled out of Asian Games, Vipraj Nigam to replace him
The 22-year-old Nigam, who represents Delhi Capitals in the IPL, has so far played 19 matches in the league, taking 13 wickets
IPL 2027 Auction To Be Held In India; Impact Player Rule Under Review
IPL players' auction for the 2027 season is slated to be held in India, marking a return after three overseas editions, with league chairman Arun Dhumal expressing a strong desire for a domestic venue.
It Hit Me Everywhere: Thailands Natthakan Chantham Reveals Painful Attempt At Suryas Supla Shot
The Asian Games: Thailand batter Natthakan Chantham has revealed her attempt to add Suryakumar Yadavs famous Supla shot to her repertoire ahead of the 2026 Asian Games, admitting that the experiment has been anything but straightforward. I have tried, but it hit me everywhere! Chantham said with a laugh in an interview with Olympics.com ahead of the Asian Games 2026. I would love to (play it), but first I have to stick to my strengths. Suryakumar remains Chanthams favourite cricketer, with the Thai batter following his exploits through YouTube highlights, Instagram and the Indian cricket teams social media channels. What appeals to her most is the freedom with which he bats. I could see his confidence and attitude to play, Chantham said. He just times the ball. He does not care about having good technique, or (looking) beautiful. He just times the ball well, and it becomes beautiful like he is. Should she ever meet the Indian star, Chantham already has a question prepared: I want a tip to play properly - what do you call that shot? Supla shot, she said. Shubman Gill is another Indian batter she admires, particularly for the ease of his strokeplay. Effortless, Chantham said when asked what she liked about Shubman Gills batting. I love someone who plays effortless and times the ball well. Rather than discussing technique with Gill, she would prefer to understand his mindset: I might ask about his thinking when he plays, when hes batting, she said. I want to know not about technique, but about how he plays, about the mind. Indias influence on Chantham has also extended to her own development. She credited Indian coach Harshal Pathak with helping her become a more aggressive batter. He guided me a lot - how to build the game, how to play aggressive batting, Chantham said. He impacted my batting a lot. Her cricket journey began almost by accident. At eight, Chantham wanted to join her schools movie club, but it was already full. I picked up cricket accidentally, she recalled. I wanted to pick the movie club, but the movie club was full and the cricket club was still empty. From those unlikely beginnings, Chantham became part of Thailands womens cricket journey. With few established players at home to look up to, the team drew inspiration from countries such as India, Australia and England. Crickets limited public recognition in Thailand remains evident in Chanthams everyday experiences. They still have no idea about cricket, she said. When they ask me what sport I play and I say cricket, I have to say it slowly, properly. They say, Oh, is it hockey? And I say, No, I said cricket, its not hockey. The Asian Games provides a different kind of platform because of its popularity in Thailand. When I tell them SEA Games, Asian Games, they definitely know, she said. They know thats quite big for you and quite popular in Thailand. With little margin for error in a knockout competition, Chantham said Thailand cannot afford to hold anything back. We have no excuse to say, We can go easy, or Next opportunity, next chance. We have no next chance, she said. We have to go 100 per cent and no excuses. The Asian Games provides a different kind of platform because of its popularity in Thailand. When I tell them SEA Games, Asian Games, they definitely know, she said. They know thats quite big for you and quite popular in Thailand. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The new generation have no idea about playing along with the big teams like India, Pakistan, Australia, England, she said. But when we reach that, it means we message them, You also can do it. Article Source: IANS
Jasprit Bumrah Enters Top 10, Varun Chakravarthy Rises To 5th Spot In ICC T20I Bowling Rankings
A host of Indian stars received a rankings boost in the T20Is after solid performances in the ongoing series against Afghanistan.
Ahead of the Asian Games 2026, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar spoke about how Team India has set the benchmark in the continent's cricket.
Easy game, this. The post Dream starts the 10 highest individual scores on ODI debut appeared first on Cricket365 .
Abhishek second among T20I batters; Robinson climbs to No. 3 in Test bowling
Varun, Bumrah, Arshdeep and Axar also made gains in the T20I bowling rankings
Asian Games: Sri Lanka Name Athapaththu-led 15-member Squad
Sri Lanka Cricket: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Wednesday announced a 15-member womens squad for the cricket competition at the 2026 Asian Games, with veteran Chamari Athapaththu named captain. The squad comes after Sri Lankas runners-up finish at the recent Womens Asia Cup and features a mix of experienced campaigners and emerging players. Sri Lanka will begin their Asian Games campaign against Malaysia on September 18. Athapaththu will lead a squad that includes several players who featured in Sri Lankas recent Asia Cup campaign, although a few notable names have been left out. Vishmi Gunarathne, who made important contributions during the ICC Womens T20 World Cup and the Womens Asia Cup, does not feature in the 15-member squad. Nilakshika Silva, another player who produced match-winning performances in both tournaments, has also been omitted. Chetana Vimukthi, who returned to Sri Lankas squad for the Asia Cup, is another notable absentee. The selectors have also included two promising teenagers in the squad. Seventeen-year-old Chamudi Praboda, who impressed during the Asia Cup, has earned a place, while 19-year-old Rashmika Sewwandi also makes the cut. Sewwandis most recent T20I appearance came against Pakistan in August. The squad retains considerable experience with Imesha Dulani, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hasini Perera, Sugandika Kumari, and wicketkeeper Anushka Sanjeewani. The selectors have also included two promising teenagers in the squad. Seventeen-year-old Chamudi Praboda, who impressed during the Asia Cup, has earned a place, while 19-year-old Rashmika Sewwandi also makes the cut. Sewwandis most recent T20I appearance came against Pakistan in August. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Sri Lanka squad: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Imesha Dulani, Sanjana Kavindi, Hansima Karunaratne, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Anushka Sanjeewani, Kaveesha Dilhari, Hasini Perera, Kaushini Nuthyangana, Nimasha Meepage, Sugandika Kumari, Rashmika Sewwandi, Chamudi Praboda, Mithali Ayodhya, Kawya Kavindi. Article Source: IANS
Australias billion-dollar dream could change the face of cricket
For Indian corporates, Australia is the final frontier. Last year, they boosted English cricket by half a billion pounds by investing in The Hundred
Nitish Kumar Reddy Gets Candid On Injury Struggles After 3-Wicket Haul vs Afghanistan
Nitish Kumar Reddy said the confidence gained from his second-game performance was exactly what he needed as he continues his comeback.
Laxman confirmed as India men's head coach for Asian Games
Gambhir will be with the India ODI team for the three-match series at home that overlaps with the Asian Games
Rinku Swaps Cricket For Football
Rinku Singh is making the most of his break in the UK, swapping cricket for football and basketball.
ICC Rankings: Abhishek Rises To Second, Kishan Retains Top Spot After Afghanistan Heroics
ICC T20I: Indias Abhishek Sharma climbed to second place in the latest ICC T20I batting rankings released on Wednesday, while teammate Ishan Kishan retained the top spot after the reigning T20 World Cup champions took an unassailable 2-0 lead in their three-match series against Afghanistan. Abhishek moved up one place after his blistering 82 in the series opener, overtaking Pakistans Sahibzada Farhan. The left-hander now trails Kishan by 51 rating points, who continues to lead the T20I batting chart. Sanju Samson was another Indian batter to make significant progress, climbing four places to 30th after his fine half-century in the second match against Afghanistan. India also made notable gains in the T20I bowling rankings. Varun Chakaravarthy rose two places to fifth, while Jasprit Bumrah climbed seven places to 10th. Arshdeep Singh made an 11-place jump to 14th, and Axar Patel rose six places to 27th after a good display against the hosts. Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai also climbed the T20I all-rounder rankings after scoring an unbeaten half-century in the opening match of the series. Three Australian players gained places in the ODI rankings following their 59-run victory over Zimbabwe in the series opener in Harare. Australia pacer Nathan Ellis rose 20 places to 20th among ODI bowlers after taking a five-wicket haul. Matthew Renshaw, named Player of the Match for his 109, moved from outside the top 100 to 68th among batters. Cooper Connolly also climbed nine places to 77th in the ODI batting rankings after scoring 51 at No. 3 against Zimbabwe. In the Test rankings, England pacer Ollie Robinson reached a new career-high rating and moved up two places to third among bowlers after taking 21 wickets in the recent three-Test series against Pakistan. England teammate Josh Tongue also achieved a career-best ranking, climbing two places to 11th after taking 19 wickets in the series. In the Test rankings, England pacer Ollie Robinson reached a new career-high rating and moved up two places to third among bowlers after taking 21 wickets in the recent three-Test series against Pakistan. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Despite Pakistan's 3-0 series defeat, skipper Babar Azam rose two places to 13th among Test batters, while Shan Masood climbed four places to 37th for his brilliant batting in the final match of the series. England wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith also moved up three places to 20th after his half-century in the first innings of the third Test. Article Source: IANS
Vipraj Nigam To Replace Injured Varun Chakravarthy In India's Asian Games Squad: Report
Chakravarthy, who was forced out of the ongoing T20I series against Afghanistan after suffering an injury in the opening game, is expected to remain sidelined for some time.
Exclusive: Rashid Khan On Battle With Vaibhav Sooryavanshi And A Fading Asian Games Dream
In an exclusive interview with NDTV, Rashid Khan spoke about 'special talent' Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, as well as a fading dream of winning a medal for Afghanistan in the Asian Games.
Team Is Well Prepared: Indian Womens Kabbadi Skipper Pushpa Rana Eyes Title Defence At Asiad
Nagoya Asian Games: As the Indian womens Kabaddi team prepares to compete at the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, captain Pushpa Rana and Pooja Kajla feel confident and motivated to defend Indias gold. The team is strongly aiming for first place. Rana, tasked with leading the 12-member squad, stated that the team has been preparing diligently by analysing opponents and focusing on areas of improvement highlighted by the coaching staff. First of all, we practice according to the situation. We also analyse the videos of the upcoming matches. Our coaches also tell us about the shortcomings of the past and what needs to be improved. And now we are working on that. I think our team is well prepared, said Rana. Kabaddi has always been a highly anticipated event at the Asian Games, with India securing 11 gold medals, including three in womens categories. The Indian womens team aims to defend their title from Hangzhou, where they narrowly defeated Chinese Taipei 26-25 in the final. Additionally, they won the World Cup last November. Rana feels that the expectation to repeat their success boosts their confidence instead of adding pressure. Yes, I feel that motivation. When our seniors have already done a good job, they have made their own history, so it is upto us to maintain that momentum. So, we see it as motivation; we dont see it as pressure. We are also working hard to maintain that momentum, she said. Rana emphasised the value of experience in the squad as she steps into her first captaincy role. Having previously been vice-captain, she continues to depend on senior players like Ritu Negi and Sonali Shingate for guidance in building team cohesion. I rely a lot on the seniors because they are already captains like Ritu Negi and Sonali Shingate. So, their advice is very important to me, said Rana. She also pointed out Chinese Taipei as a team to watch, remembering their narrow 26-25 victory at the last Asian Games. For Arjuna awardee Pooja Kajla, the opportunity to secure another Asian Games gold medal also presents a chance to motivate future generations of women athletes. First of all, it is very important to win gold at the Asian Games. Along with that, as we talk about the girls of the cricket World Cup, there are also juniors who are very inspired by the success of Indian women in sport. So, if we bring gold, then small children get inspired by us and they will also ask their parents to let them play, said Kajla. Kajla also praised the teams preparation at the strength and conditioning camp, organized jointly by the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) and the Pro Kabaddi League organizers, for aiding players in developing better recovery and performance habits. They gave us a few more classes on sleep and recovery. So, I got to learn a lot from there, she said. Kajla also praised the teams preparation at the strength and conditioning camp, organized jointly by the Amateur Kabaddi Federation of India (AKFI) and the Pro Kabaddi League organizers, for aiding players in developing better recovery and performance habits. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Indian Womens Kabaddi Team for 2026 Asian Games: Pushpa Rana (captain), Ritu Negi, Sonali Shingate, Sanju Devi, Pooja Kajla, Ritu Sheoran, Jyoti Thakur, Pinki Roy, Manisha Kumari, Bhavna Thakur, Raj Rani, Nikita Kumari Article Source: IANS
Varun's Asian Games dream over, Nigam gets India call-up
Leg-spin all-rounder Vipraj Nigam has been named as the replacement for senior spinner Varun Chakravarthy in India's Asian Games cricket squad. Chakravarthy was ruled out due to a side strain, marking a setback after his recent return from injury. Nigam, a Delhi Capitals player, brings IPL experience to the team.
Raised Expectations: India Star Clean Bowls Aakash Chopra With 2nd T20I Show
Aakash Chopra reserved special praise for Nitish Kumar Reddy, who conceded just 24 runs in three overs while taking three wickets and was trusted to bowl the final over.
After Ending 10-Year Wait For Century, Matt Renshaw Reveals Why Opening Isn't For Him
Matt Renshaw smashed his maiden ODI century as Australia amassed 294/8 in the series opener, and a five-wicket haul from Nathan Ellis ensured Zimbabwe were bowled out for just 235 in reply at the Harare Sports Club.
AFG vs IND 3rd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
AFG vs IND 3rd T20I, Cricket Tips: Two games and two dominating wins for Team India over Afghanistan in the ongoing T20I series. Shreyas Iyer and co. have won the series with one match left to play. Nitish Kumar Reddy won the MOTM award for his 3/24 with the ball. Sanju Samson regained his form with 57 off 22 balls. Abhishek Sharma (38 off 19) and Ishan Kishan (38* off 23) were among the runs once again. For Afghanistan, the batting didn't click, and they failed to score a competitive target. Can they rectify their errors in the final game? The third T20I will start at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. AFG vs IND: Match Details Date : September 17, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Arun Jaitley Stadium, Delhi AFG vs IND: Live Streaming Details Fans can access the live televcast of the game on the Sony Sports Networks in India. Fans can also watch the game through the FanCode mobile app or website. AFG vs IND: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches: 11 India : 10 Afghanistan : 0 No-result : 1 AFG vs IND: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Delhi is pretty flat and is brilliant to bat on. It has consistent bounce and pace, which allows the batters to bat through the line. Some of the sixes in this series were of less than 65 metres, which makes it even tougher for the bowlers. All in all there is nothing much for the bowlers. AFG vs IND: Possible XIs Afghanistan : Rahmanullah Gurbaz (wk), Ibrahim Zadran (c), Sediq Atal, Darwish Rasooli, Azmatullah Omarzai, Mohammad Nabi, Gulbadin Naib, Rashid Khan, Noor Ahmad, Naveen-ul-Haq, Fazalhaq Farooqi India : Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (c), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Ravi Bishnoi AFG vs IND: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Abhishek Sharma has been brilliant in this series, and his ability to hit sixes makes him very dangerous. Azmatullah Omarzai has shown decent batting form in two games, and he can put Indian bowlers under pressure. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep has been brilliant with the new ball and is bowling well in the powerplay. For Afghanistan, Rashid Khan bowled superbly in the second game, delivered a good spell and has been the go-to bowler for Afghanistan. Today Match Prediction: India have proved to be too good for Afghanistan, and we predict them to win the final game also. AFG vs IND Match 3rd T20I, Today Match AFG vs IND, AFG vs IND Prediction, AFG vs IND Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Afghanistan vs India Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Higher Up The Order, I Get A Bit Giddy: Renshaw After Maiden ODI Ton
ICC World Test Championship: After scoring his first international century in almost 10 years to help Australia beat Zimbabwe, Matt Renshaw admitted he might not have made his first ODI century had he opened the batting for Australia against Zimbabwe. Renshaw smashed his maiden ODI century as Australia amassed 294/8 in the series opener, and a five-wicket haul from Nathan Ellis ensured Zimbabwe were bowled out for just 235 in reply at the Harare Sports Club. It was Renshaw's first international century since his only previous hundred, which came against Pakistan in a Test match in Sydney at the start of 2017, ending a drought of almost 10 years. Higher up the order I get a bit giddy, Renshaw was quoted by ABC News. For me, my tempo when I come in the middle overs is just trying to hit the gaps, hit where the fielders aren't. Came to bat at No. 6, the left-hander navigated a spin assault, shepherding Australia's middle and lower order to a commanding total on a far-from-flat wicket. With spin being a very big factor in that middle period I see it as my strength. I really understood my role. It made it really simple for me, he added. Renshaw's century made him the first Aussie to score an ODI century batting at No. 6 or lower since Glenn Maxwell's unforgettable unbeaten 201 against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup, as the left-hander attempts to establish himself as a three-format player in the latter stages of his career. He is set to win a place in the playing XI for next month's ICC World Test Championship series in South Africa after being added to the 16-player squad. Even if Rabada misses some or all of the series through injury, Australia could field a threatening seam attack, with Renshaw on the front line. Renshaw's century made him the first Aussie to score an ODI century batting at No. 6 or lower since Glenn Maxwell's unforgettable unbeaten 201 against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup, as the left-hander attempts to establish himself as a three-format player in the latter stages of his career. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories (But) the mindset going in will be quite similar to what I bring in white-ball. That brings the best out of my movements. So I'll probably have to, when time suits, hit some red balls at some point during these six ODIs. But batting, I think if you're in a good rhythm, just trying to get as much rhythm as you can before that that Test series. There's five (ODIs) still to go before that. Article Source: IANS
Laura Wolvaardt matches Smriti Mandhana's legendary world record with century vs Zimbabwe
In the third T20I against Zimbabwe, South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt played a defining knock of 126 runs off 62 balls. With that, the modern-day legend equalled Smriti Mandhanas record for most centuries in international...
Pybus reveals what Afghanistan must fix after India loss
Afghanistan head coach Richard Pybus has identified key areas for improvement in the team's white-ball game following their T20I series loss to India. He stressed the need for better quality pitches at home to develop players and called for a significant increase in the team's strike rate and a reduction in dot balls, especially during the Powerplay.
You have to be mentally positive: Nitish Reddy on injury comeback, managements trust
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 16 (IANS) Nitish Kumar Reddys return from injury received a timely boost in Indias second T20I against Afghanistan, with the all-rounder producing a match-winning bowling performance with a three-wicket haul. After an underwhelming outing in the series opener, Nitish said the confidence gained from his second-game performance was exactly what he needed as he continues his comeback. Feels great, you know, every player needs the confidence when theyre coming from injury, and to be fair, the first game was not that great for me and in the second game Im feeling much more happy enough because any player would be needing this confidence and I hope I continue this confidence forward, Nitish said in a BCCI video on Wednesday. Nitish was named Player of the Match after returning figures of 3/24, playing a key role as India restricted Afghanistan to 159/8 before chasing down the target with seven wickets in hand. The performance came after the 22-year-old had spoken about the work done at the BCCI Centre of Excellence to get his body back to full fitness. The all-rounder also highlighted the confidence he has received from the Indian team management since breaking into the side, saying the backing has allowed him to focus on his game without worrying about his place. Its always been a privilege to be a part of the Indian team and the management, obviously, they have given me enough opportunities and they have shown a lot of trust. I think that is what a player would actually need and that Im getting from the management. Im pretty happy with that, he added. However, the road back from injury has also brought a mental challenge. Nitish revealed that the long periods at the COE can be mentally taxing despite the available facilities and training, with conversations with close friends and family helping him cope with the fatigue. I have a couple of best friends, I talk to them every day. Its just mentally very fatigued in COE. Obviously, it feels great to be, you know, getting those many facilities over there to train, to perform, to increase whatever ability you have. But I would say, I talk to my friends, I talk to my family and here and there I go to my home and come back for 1-2 days. That is kind of relief, but yeah, that mentally is one thing which we need to take care of, he stated. For Nitish, managing his body is particularly important given the workload of being an all-rounder. While injuries can be difficult to accept, he believes the response to setbacks ultimately comes down to maintaining the right mindset. Injuries happen. Because maybe Im an all-rounder, I have a lot more loads to work on. I have to keep an eye on them, I have to recover. Im taking all the boxes but somewhere, you know, when you get this injury, you will feel bad about it and its all about mindset, I would say. You have to be really strong at those points. You dont have to let any negative talk or any negative people coming at that time and poking at you. You just have to be mentally positive and do the good things and God will give you at the right time, he concluded.
Will Sooryavanshi get a game in final Afghanistan T20I?
India, having already secured the T20 series against Afghanistan, is likely to experiment with its playing XI in the third and final match in New Delhi. This provides an opportunity for players like Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and others on the bench to get game time before the Asian Games, while Afghanistan aims for an improved performance to boost morale.
Maddinson and Shaw named New South Wales captains
Jack Edwards has stepped back from the role as the state looks to the start of Brad Haddin's first season in charge
Deandra Dottin Re-signs With Melbourne Renegades For WBBL 12
Melbourne Renegades High Performance Manager: Melbourne Renegades have received a major boost ahead of the upcoming Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) season, as West Indies star all-rounder Deandra Dottin has confirmed her return to the club for another season. Dottin, regarded as one of the most powerful all-rounders in T20 cricket, will begin her third season with the Renegades after playing in all of the teams matches in WBBL 11. Her return follows the Renegades re-signing of West Indies all-rounder Hayley Matthews. The duo played a key role in Melbournes maiden WBBL title triumph in WBBL 10 and will now reunite in red for the upcoming season. Matthews missed WBBL 11 because of injury, while Dottin remained an important part of the Renegades campaign. Melbourne Renegades High Performance Manager Clint McKay welcomed Dottins return, saying the West Indies star would bring significant experience and match-winning ability to the squad. Deandra is one of the most impactful players in world cricket, and were thrilled to welcome her back to the Melbourne Renegades. She was a huge part of the WBBL 10 title success, and we know exactly what she can bring to our group both on and off the field. Her ability to influence games with both bat and ball is exceptional, McKay said. Dottins signing follows Cricket Australias changes to the overseas contracting system for WBBL 12. The overseas player draft has been scrapped, and the competition has returned to an open-market system that allows clubs to sign international players directly. Dottin said she was excited to return to Melbourne and to link up with Matthews again. Im looking forward to returning to the Renegades and especially playing with Hayley Matthews once again, Dottin said. Weve shared some special memories on the field together, and being back in Melbourne, where we won a title together, brings back plenty of great memories. Im excited for the season ahead, she added. Dottin made history as the first woman to score a T20I century and has established herself as a proven match-winner with bat and ball. Her return gives new Renegades coach Gavan Twining another experienced option as the team builds its squad for WBBL 12. Weve shared some special memories on the field together, and being back in Melbourne, where we won a title together, brings back plenty of great memories. Im excited for the season ahead, she added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Alice Capsey has moved to the Sydney Sixers, and Charis Bekker is also out of the squad. Sarah Coyte, Emma de Broughe, Sara Kennedy, Naomi Stalenberg and Tayla Vlaeminck remain uncontracted. Article Source: IANS
Pybus: 'Our dot-ball percentage is too high and our strike rate has got to improve'
The head coach also suggested the lack of power-hitting in Afghanistan cricket was a
Punjab T20 League: Abhishek Sharma's influence on the Amritsar Soormas extended beyond his performances during the Sher-E-Punjab T20 League, as opener Sahaj Dhawan revealed that the India all-rounder encouraged the team to express themselves freely and attack the bowlers. Dhawans approach proved effective as Soormas defeated Ludhiana Lions by eight wickets at the I.S. Bindra Stadium in Mohali on Sunday to claim the league title. When you share the dressing room with a player like Abhishek Sharma, you obviously learn a lot. He helped create an atmosphere where everyone was encouraged to express themselves and play with an open mind. There were no second thoughts; the message was to go out and play our shots and take on the bowlers, he said. That mindset was particularly evident in the final, where Dhawan played his part in steering Amritsar through a chase after Ludhiana were restricted to a manageable total. With rain having affected conditions earlier in the day, Soormas decided to make the most of winning the toss and put themselves in a favourable position. The wicket was a little damp because it had rained earlier in the day. Winning the toss was a plus point for us, so our plan was to restrict them to a manageable total, he stated. Amritsars chase was not entirely without setbacks. Early dismissals of Naman and Jashan put the pressure back on the batting side, but Dhawan said the dressing-room instructions were clear: avoid panic, spend time at the crease and finish the job. When we went out to bat, my plan was to play with an open mind. I got a few boundaries early on, but then Naman and Jashan got out. The message from the dressing room was to stay till the end. They told us to take our time. We just had to complete the match, and thankfully, we did that and got the win, he added. Dhawans partnership with Naman Dhir also carries a history that predates their title-winning campaign. The two cricketers hail from Faridkot and have been playing together since their Under-14 days, a connection that has translated into a close relationship on and off the field. First of all, Naman is my brother. We started playing cricket together when we were in the Under-14 age group. He is from Faridkot and I am also from there, so our bonding is very good, Dhawan said. Dhawans partnership with Naman Dhir also carries a history that predates their title-winning campaign. The two cricketers hail from Faridkot and have been playing together since their Under-14 days, a connection that has translated into a close relationship on and off the field. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He is like my big brother. Even during matches, he would tell me if I was doing something wrong, like asking why I was playing a certain shot from outside. We have been playing together for a long time, so that relationship makes our bonding special, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Sanju Samson on selection: I am not a robot, but cant sulk
I try to turn off the Wi-Fi. But sometimes the Wi-Fi turns on and I see the comments of the senior players. Its very normal. I think its their choice, Sanju Samson said
Jos Buttler breaks Rohit Sharma's T20I record after 80-run knock vs Sri Lanka
Jos Buttler has surpassed Rohit Sharma on the list of most runs scored in T20I cricket history. The former England captain played a sensational 80-run knock against Sri Lanka in the first T20I in Southampton...
Bangladesh's T20 World Cup Withdrawal: Investigation Report Reveals What Happened Behind The Scenes
Bangladesh's former youth and sports adviser Asif Nazrul had claimed that the players were aware of the situation and had agreed with the decision.
'He played himself in and he started hammering the balls only later. If he keeps on doing that, I don't think he'll ever fail.'
Kuldeep Yadav Breaks Silence On India Snub After Career-Best County Championship Haul
India's left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav had an eventful stint in the County Championship recently
Khawaja Re-signs With Brisbane Heat For BBL 16
Big Bash League: Former Australia batter Usman Khawaja has re-signed with Brisbane Heat for Big Bash League (BBL 16), marking his fifth season with the club. The 39-year-old retired from international cricket following the Sydney Ashes Test in January, before he confirmed his first-class career was over when Queensland's Sheffield Shield campaign ended in March. However, the left-hander has agreed to another season in the BBL where he will be available for all games. But whether he'll remain captain is still to be determined, as under new head coach James Hopes, the Heat are yet to confirm their captain for the upcoming season. Khawaja said he was keen at the prospect of playing the entire competition for the Heat, having notched up eight matches in 2022 when the club produced a late-season winning streak that took them to a final. Its going to be a bit strange, but very exciting as well, to be at the Gabba for the first game of our season on 15 December, he said. In the past it has been a few games here or there, depending on the Australian teams commitments, which has been enjoyable. But the prospect of a full competition is even better. Khawaja, who has been part of BBL championship squads with the Sydney Thunder in 2015-16 and the Heat in 2023-24, has played 124 T20 games in his career, featuring three centuries and 18 half centuries. Its going to be a bit strange, but very exciting as well, to be at the Gabba for the first game of our season on 15 December, he said. In the past it has been a few games here or there, depending on the Australian teams commitments, which has been enjoyable. But the prospect of a full competition is even better. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brisbane Heat coach James Hopes welcomed the return of Khawaja for BBL 16. Having someone with Uzzies class, composure and experience in our group is only going to make us better. His individual skills and reading of the game mean his contributions are always valuable, Hopes said. Article Source: IANS
Rohit Sharma's Future Under Spotlight As Selectors Meet To Name Squad For West Indies ODIs
At 39, Rohit continues to face questions over whether he can make it to the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
KL Rahul marked Ganesh Chaturthi with prayers and festive cheer at home, sharing a glimpse of the celebrations with his fans on Instagram.
