NAM vs SA 1st T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
NAM vs SA 1st T20I, Cricket Tips: Namibia are all set to host South Africa and Zimbabwe for an exciting T20I tri-series. All three teams will play four group games, and the top two sides will make it to the final. The first game of the tri-series will be played between Namibia and South Africa. This contest will kick off at 5:30 PM IST on Friday at the Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek. Gerhard Erasmus will lead the hosts. They have a star-studded lineup with several experienced sides. They have a really good chance against the inexperienced South African sides. The Proteas will be led by Bjorn Fortuin. Only two players from their current team have played more than 20 T20Is. NAM vs SA: Match Details Date : August 28, 2026 (Friday) Time : 5:30 PM IST Venue : Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek NAM vs SA: Live Streaming Details There is no direct option to watch the live telecast. The live stream will be available on the FanCode mobile app or website. NAM vs SA: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches: 1 Namibia : 1 South Africa : 0 No-result : 0 NAM vs SA: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Windhoek is a good batting venue. It has bounce and pace, which keeps the batting side interested. Fast bowlers will get initial assistance, but there will not be much help. Spinners will get some grip when the game goes on. NAM vs SA: Possible XIs Namibia : Michael van Lingen, Louren Steenkamp, Junior Taanyanda, Gerhard Erasmus (C), Jan-Nicol Eaton, Zane Green (wk), Jan Frylinck, JJ Smit, Ruben Trumpelmann, Ben Scholtz, Jack Brassell South Africa : Lhuan dre-Pretorius, Tony de Zorzi, Connor Esterhuizen, Jordan Hermann, Dewald Brevis, Rubin Hermann (wk), Duan Jansen, Bjorn Fortuin (C), Lutho Sipamla, Kwena Maphaka, Eathan Bosch NAM vs SA: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Gerhard Erasmus and Dewald Brevis are two experienced players on either side. They know how to tackle tough conditions and perform well. Probable Best Bowler Bjorn Fortuin comes with immense experience and is a very smart operator in the middle over. For Namibia, Ruben Trumpelmann is the key with the new ball. Today Match Prediction: Namibia have an experienced side, and they have the home conditions in their favor also. But South Africa have a strong batting unit. Hence, we predict South Africa to win this game. NAM vs SA Match 1st T20I, Today Match NAM vs SA, NAM vs SA Prediction, NAM vs SA Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Namibia vs South Africa 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.
'A World-Class Player...': Sri Lanka Coach Kirsten Hails Jurel
Sri Lanka coach Gary Kirsten praised Sonal Dinusha's twin centuries and pressure-handling ability, while calling India's Dhruv Jurel a world-class player with superb technique and short-ball skills.
'No Focus on One Team...': Harmanpreet Shrugs Off Pakistan Buzz
Harmanpreet Kaur said India will not single out Pakistan or any opponent at the Women's T20 Asia Cup, focusing instead on consistent cricket and handling pressure.
Sam Cook links with Essex to compound Surrey woes
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MCA Honours Ajinkya Rahane With Scholarship Fund
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PCB complains to Sky over interview with Imran Khan's sons
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Jamie Smith, Jordan Cox Revive England Against Pakistan After Mohammad Abbas Strikes
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Carse in spotlight before Aldridge five-for cleans up Gloucestershire
Discarded England seamer starts well with ball as Durham take grip against bottom side
Australia Great Delivers 'Red Ball' Verdict On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: 'Freakish Talent'
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Sachin Tendulkar Sends Special Message To Families Affected By Nepal Floods
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Gill sees nothing wrong in decision to enforce follow-on
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Wharton, Whiteman go to work for Yorkshire
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Putting In All The Hard Work and Doing Everything I Can: Suryakumar Yadav
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'Don't think it backfired' - Gill defends India's follow-on plan
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Yastika Bhatia, Anushka Sharma To Lead India A Squads During Australia A Women's Tour
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Women's T20 Asia Cup: Harmanpreet Kaur Says India Not Focusing On Any Particular Team
India captain Harmanpreet Kaur on Thursday said her team is not singling out any opponent in the Women's T20 Asia Cup and will instead focus on playing good cricket.
Yastika Bhatia named India A captain for one-day, red-ball series vs Australia A
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I Love The Way He Plays Test Cricket: Sri Lanka Head Coach Gary Kirsten Praises Sonal Dinusha
Sri Lanka head coach Gary Kirsten on Thursday heaped praise on Sonal Dinusha, saying the young batter thrives in ough situations and it is a treat to watch him playing Test cricket.
DPL 2026: Purani Dilli 6 Eye Final Berth; Set To Face Central Delhi Kings In Qualifier 2
Central Delhi Kings: Purani Dilli 6 have their sights firmly set on a place in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026 final after storming into Qualifier 2 with a convincing seven-wicket victory over Outer Delhi Warriors in the Eliminator at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi on Wednesday. The franchise, which has shown remarkable improvement this season, will now face Central Delhi Kings in Qualifier 2 on Friday. A win will take Purani Dilli 6 into the final, where South Delhi Superstarz are already waiting. The Eliminator showcased the teams all-round strength. After restricting Outer Delhi Warriors to 179, Purani Dilli 6 chased down the target with seven wickets in hand, led by a sensational 82 off 32 balls from Dev Lakra and a composed unbeaten 52 off 25 balls from captain Anuj Rawat. The victory has further strengthened the belief within the Purani Dilli 6 camp as the team looks to complete a remarkable turnaround this season. Purani Dilli 6 owner Akash Nangia said, This team has shown tremendous character throughout the season. What makes me particularly proud is the way the players have stood up for each other and continued to believe in themselves. The win against Outer Delhi Warriors was a complete team effort, and performances like Dev Lakras and Anuj Rawats showed the confidence and intent we have been looking for. He added, We are now just one game away from the final, but we know Central Delhi Kings will be a strong challenge. Our focus is to stay composed, trust the process, and give our best on Friday. The players have worked extremely hard for this opportunity, and we want to make the most of it. The support from our fans has also been incredible, and we hope to give them another memorable performance. Purani Dilli 6s bowling unit set the platform in the Eliminator, with Udhav Mohan returning impressive figures of 2/25, while Dev Lakra contributed with the ball as well, picking up 2/14 in two overs. Rajneesh Dadar claimed three wickets to help restrict the Warriors to 179. In the run chase, the early dismissal of Samarth Seth did little to unsettle Purani Dilli 6. Aryan Gaur and Lakra added 67 runs for the second wicket before Lakra launched a breathtaking counter-attack. His 32-ball 82 ensured that the required run rate remained firmly under control. Purani Dilli 6s bowling unit set the platform in the Eliminator, with Udhav Mohan returning impressive figures of 2/25, while Dev Lakra contributed with the ball as well, picking up 2/14 in two overs. Rajneesh Dadar claimed three wickets to help restrict the Warriors to 179. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Qualifier 2 against Central Delhi Kings on Friday will determine who joins South Delhi Superstarz in the DPL 2026 final. Article Source: IANS
Trans-athlete Anaya Bangar opens up on cricket comeback and WBBL dream
Trans-athlete Anaya Bangar opens up on cricket comeback and WBBL dream
Kieron Pollard smashed T20 world record with stunning show for Trinbago Knight Riders in CPL
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'PM Modi Always Stands With Athletes': Arundhati Chaudhary After Khelo India Dialogue
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: The 2026 Commonwealth Games gold medallist Arundhati Chaudhary on Thursday attended the 'Khelo India Dialogue', a virtual address by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Chaudhary reacted to Modi's address to the youth as she highlighted that the PM is standing with the athletes at all times, be it a win or a loss. Through this event, the youth would have got a glimpse that PM Modi always stands with the youth, whether they win or lose. Whenever we return from a competition, the PM interacts with us. He discusses our wins and losses. If we lose, he motivates us not to bog down and keep working hard, she said after attending the virtual briefing. Students of Punjabi University also shared their experiences at the event. B.Tech student Anshul Auluwalia said the 'Khelo India Dialogue' allowed him to learn about the changes taking place in sports and the governments sports policies. Meanwhile, university student and NSS volunteer Khushdeep Kaur said hearing about athletes' struggles, injuries, and experiences from their sporting careers was highly motivating for the students. She said the hard work and determination of athletes are an inspiration for young people. B.Tech student Gauri said she had stopped playing sports some time ago, but after participating in the 'Khelo India' program, she once again felt motivated to return to sports. She said that students should participate in sports alongside their studies. During his address, the Prime Minister called for India to broaden its participation across Olympic disciplines, saying the country must develop athletes in sports where it has traditionally had little or no representation, as part of preparations for the 2036 Olympics. Addressing the youngsters, Modi said a nationwide talent hunt targeting children aged 5 to 15 would be crucial for identifying athletes early and training them in sports suited to their abilities. This time, from the Red Fort, I drew the country's attention to a major challenge in sports. This challenge is related to the Olympics. The bitter truth is that India's teams don't participate in half of the sports that are a part of the Olympics, he said. PM Modi said India's limited participation had remained a longstanding concern and directly affected the country's prospects in the overall medal standings. That is, we do not compete for a very large part of the medal tally. And this has been the situation for a long time now. In the 2012 Olympics, India participated in only 13 sports. In more than 20 sports, India did not participate. This time, from the Red Fort, I drew the country's attention to a major challenge in sports. This challenge is related to the Olympics. The bitter truth is that India's teams don't participate in half of the sports that are a part of the Olympics, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories There are so many sports whose names people in the country have probably heard of. Other countries win medals in those sports. And we do not participate in those sports. We have to acquire the skills in these sports to increase the medal tally in these sports as well. For example, surfing and sports climbing, he added. Article Source: IANS
Can Joe Root Break Sachin Tendulkar's Record? England Skipper's Father Gives Big Verdict
England cricket team skipper Joe Root is just 1741 runs away from overtaking Sachin Tendulkar in the list of batters with the most runs in Test cricket.
Gill Rues Missed Chance but Gives Players Full Marks
Shubman Gill called India's drawn second Test against Sri Lanka frustrating but praised his players' effort, cleared Mohammad Siraj of injury concerns and backed India's WTC qualification hopes.
Feels Like A Dream To Face Off Against India And Pakistan In Womens Asia Cup, Says Kary Chan
For Hong Kong China: For Hong Kong China left-arm wrist-spinner Kary Chan, a brief hospital stay due to diarrhoea was merely a minor speed bump on the road to a dream of featuring in this years Womens Asia Cup. Known as Ka Ying Chan on the team sheet, Kary is one of only seven bowlers in history to surpass 150 Womens T20I wickets. But on the eve of the side opening their campaign against Thailand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, Kary can barely process the reality awaiting her team at the tournament, where they will also face off against Pakistan and heavyweights, seven-time tournament winners India. Oh my god, we just think it's very unreal because we were always just watching, like, maybe the India or Pakistan team play on TV, and we didn't really have a chance to face them. So all of us, when we qualified (via the 2026 Womens Premier Cup), were just very excited and we were just like, We don't think it's come true. We really thought it was like a dream. All of us are just so excited now and can't wait for it, Kary told IANS in an exclusive conversation facilitated by Sony Sports Network. For Kary, bowling to the players she has long watched on her TV and mobile screens brings a surreal mix of reverence and competitive fire. I don't know how to express this feeling because I learned my cricket by seeing those players on screen, and now I'm going to play against them. Like I need to bowl to them and bat against their bowling. It's a very nervous feeling, to be honest, but the main thing is that I am really excited. I learned a lot of cricket skills from them and also watched a lot of cricket videos and games to improve my cricket. So now it's a chance to show them what our level is. Preparation in Sri Lanka offered the squad vital exposure to conditions and bowling variations similar to what they expect in Dubai. We got to face a lot of different bowlers like left-arm bowlers we have never faced before. Its a bit similar to what we will be facing in the Asia Cup, because there are a lot of bowlers that we have never faced from the India or Pakistan sides. It was a good chance to face those different bowlers to prepare for the games, especially since the wicket is quite similar to what it will be in Dubai. So in terms of the time we spent practising for the team and for the Asia Cup, I think we got ready in Sri Lanka and fully prepared ourselves for it. Behind the excitement lies a transformed squad, elevated by professional standards brought in by former India captain Mamatha Maben, currently their head coach. Having Maben in our team is a very big thing for us because she used to captain India, and she also has a lot of international playing and coaching experience. From the time she came to coach us, I feel like we have had to go to the next level and adopt a new mindset, because her mindset is mainly about high quality, professionalism, and how to be the best of the best. When she came into the team, she changed us a lot - not only skill-wise, but especially mentally, in how we prepare for the game, our daily routine, and all these small details we thought were not important. Once she brought all that culture to us, it made us become better cricketers. Alongside Maben, their strength and conditioning coach Tanuja Lele, who has spent considerable time in the Indian cricket ecosystem, has reshaped her fitness routine over the last three months. We got a very good S&C joining us to help us know what to eat, what not to eat, and what we need to do. Before, we had a trainer from another sport, but it wasn't specific to cricket. Now we have a trainer who knows so much about cricket, and that's why she can provide us with a very good program to let us know, as a cricketer, bowler, and batter, what kind of program we need. It keeps me motivated because she also used to train players on the Indian side. It makes me feel like, 'Okay, if I follow what she is asking us to do, maybe one day we can get closer to their level.' It's not easy, but to be honest, I am quite enjoying it. The focus under the new coaching staff has shifted toward adopting elite mental habits. Both Maben and our S&C coach worked for India too - so they shared with us, not specifically how Indian players do things, but what a great cricketer's mindset should be, because at this moment, our skills are already set. What we have is already there - we can't change it too much. The main thing is how we are going to put that legendary mindset into our heads to become better cricketers and play our best game against them. The path has also required overcoming significant infrastructural hurdles at home, especially as they have only one main ground and get roughly three hours thrice a week, combined with boys and girls, to practice. I feel that different teams or countries face different problems. Yes, we have a venue problem and don't have much area to train. But I always tell the girls, and we share, that we can't complain about the environment. We can't change the environment around us, nor can we suddenly bring in a venue or anything. If we can't control those things, we just accept it, adapt to the situation, and do what we can. We mainly just use our free hours. If we have free hours today, we use them to do our best and do as much as we can. So we are used to it now. Of course, in the future, we hope that because we qualified for this Asia Cup, the government can give us more time to train on turf wickets or give us a bigger venue for fielding training and other things. That anticipation is best captured by a light-hearted wager regarding India vice-captain and star opener Smriti Mandhana. Kary harboured a wish to swap jerseys with Smriti and Jemimah Rodrigues during the tournament. But with Jemimah ruled out due to a high-grade hamstring injury, Kary hopes to get Smritis wicket on September 3 and then swap jerseys with her. I'm a big fan of Smriti because I'm a left-hander as well, and she's a legend among left-handers worldwide. Of course, I'm not really sure if she's going to swap jerseys with me, but if I have a chance, I would like to swap jerseys with her and ask her a lot of questions about how to become such a big legend of the game. We also have a joke - my teammate and I made a deal that if I can get Smriti out, I will get a bubble tea. But I don't think the bubble tea is the main thing - it's about enjoying the time bowling to her if I get the chance. That really motivates me right now and makes me want to become a better bowler. Kary also hopes Hong Kong China playing in a Womens Asia Cup for the first time since 2012 inspires the next generation of cricketers back home, especially after suffering the heartbreak of not making it to the main event in 2024. I think for local kids, especially if they play cricket, they will be very excited that we made it to the Asia Cup. Before I left, some of my students told me they were going to watch it on TV and support us no matter what. For the kids in Hong Kong, it's important because we are not traditionally a cricket city, and not many people know about the sport. But seeing a team like us make it to the Asia Cup will motivate the younger generation and show them that anything is possible. I think for local kids, especially if they play cricket, they will be very excited that we made it to the Asia Cup. Before I left, some of my students told me they were going to watch it on TV and support us no matter what. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Watch DP World Women's Asia Cup 2026- Thailand vs Hong Kong on August 28, 2026, from 8 PM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hindi), Sony Sports Ten 4 SD (Telugu, Kannada) & Sony LIV. Article Source: IANS
Kieron Pollard Reclaims Sensational T20 Record From Star England Batter
Former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Poillard scripted history by becoming the highest run-scorer in the history of T20 cricket.
TNPL | Madurai Panthers, Kovai Kings to fight it out in an intriguingfinale
Lord's Test: Abbas Tears Through England Top Order
Mohammad Abbas struck three times and Mohammad Ali removed Harry Brook as Pakistan reduced England to 80-4 at lunch after opting to bowl first at Lord's.
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Despite A 1-0 Series Win Over Sri Lanka, India Stay In Fifth Spot In WTC Standings
World Test Championship: Indias hopes of upping their position in the World Test Championship (WTC) standings took a hit on Thursday as a resilient day five rearguard act by Sri Lanka forced the second Test at the SSC Ground to end in a draw. Having registered a comprehensive 165-run victory in the series opener at Galle, India looked firmly on course to sweep the two-match series 2-0. However, Sonal Dinushas heroic second-innings century of 133 not out ensured Sri Lanka salvaged a draw, leaving India to settle for a 1-0 series triumph. The drawn result also meant Indias Points Percentage (PCT) dropped from 53.33 to 51.52, though they retain the fifth spot after playing in eleven matches. India are still behind leaders, 2023 WTC winners Australia (80.00 PCT), 2025 WTC winners South Africa (75.00 PCT), 2021 champions New Zealand (72.22 PCT), and Bangladesh (55.56 PCT). Sri Lanka, meanwhile, are still placed sixth in the WTC standings with a 33.33 PCT. Resuming on day five with a slender 16-run lead, Sri Lanka's lower order displayed remarkable grit. Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha safely negotiated 31.2 overs in the morning session to add 100 runs. Dinusha brought up a half-century while Nuwantha stroked a disciplined 46 to push the lead past 100 before the lunch break. India struck early in the second session when left-arm spinner Manav Suthar induced an edge from Nuwantha to second slip, where Dhruv Jurel took a clean catch. Ravindra Jadeja soon removed Prabath Jayasuriya, with Jurel holding onto another sharp chance. Yet, Dinusha remained steadfast, taking the hosts to safety at tea alongside a resolute Lahiru Kumara. Sri Lanka, meanwhile, are still placed sixth in the WTC standings with a 33.33 PCT. Resuming on day five with a slender 16-run lead, Sri Lanka's lower order displayed remarkable grit. Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha safely negotiated 31.2 overs in the morning session to add 100 runs. Dinusha brought up a half-century while Nuwantha stroked a disciplined 46 to push the lead past 100 before the lunch break. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Having already crossed the halfway mark of their campaign following a 0-2 home reversal against South Africa and a drawn series in England last year, India now face a crucial stretch. Shubman Gills side will travel to New Zealand for a two-game Test series in November before hosting Australia in a five-match series to decide their fate for the WTC final. Article Source: IANS
Sonal Dinusha Gives Big Reaction On Earning Draw For Sri Lanka In 2nd Test Against India
Sri Lanka batter Sonal Dinusha expressed immense satisfaction after his marathon batting efforts across the series, including hitting an unbeaten 133, helped the hosts secure a hard-fought draw in the second and final Test against India.
Would Have Been Better If We Won This Game: Devdutt Padikkal After Drawn Colombo Test
Indian batter Devdutt Padikkal expressed disappointment after Sri Lanka forced a draw against India in the second Test at the Sinhalese Sports Club.
Dehradun T20 League: As Uttarakhand prepares for its biggest franchise cricket showcase, a senior cricket administrator has hailed the inaugural Dehradun T20 League 2026 as a transformative milestone that will reshape the pathway for grassroots cricketers across the state. Speaking about the vision behind the league and its impact on the regions youth, former Vice-President of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and former secretary of the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand Mahim Verma emphasised that the tournament was built specifically to bridge the gap between local talent and professional cricket. Our main goal with the Dehradun T20 League is to give our boys the kind of environment that speeds up their growth. Uttarakhand has no shortage of raw talent, but what our young players needed was a high-exposure platform where they could test themselves under pressure, learn professional match standards, and get noticed, Verma said. The tournament, scheduled to run from September 2 to 9 at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy in Dehradun, will see six franchise teamsRishikesh Dragons, Doiwala Kings, Mussoorie Thunder, Herbertpur Knightriders, Vikasnagar Dhamaka, and Selaqui Strikerscompete over 18 high intensity matches. Echoing this vision, Navneet Mishra, CEO of the Dehradun T20 League, highlighted the operational excellence and long-term ecosystem being created for the players. We haven't spared any effort in making sure this league matches the highest professional standards in terms of infrastructure, broadcast, and player facilities. Our focus is to create an ecosystem where young athletes feel valued and inspired to perform at their absolute best. Seeing the enthusiasm from players and franchises alike gives us complete confidence that this league will become a cornerstone for cricket development in the region, Mishra stated. For many emerging players in the state, the league offers an unprecedented opportunity to rub shoulders with experienced coaches and match-winners, providing them with lessons that go far beyond a single week of cricket. When an 18- or 19-year-old kid shares a dugout with established domestic names, their entire perspective changes. They learn how to handle big-match pressure, how to prepare mentally, and how to carry themselves as professionals. That exposure is priceless, and it will give them the confidence to perform at higher levels of Indian cricket, Verma added. For many emerging players in the state, the league offers an unprecedented opportunity to rub shoulders with experienced coaches and match-winners, providing them with lessons that go far beyond a single week of cricket. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Having nationwide coverage means these young players aren't just playing for their franchises; they are putting their names on the radar. I am confident that this inaugural season will mark the beginning of a new era for cricket in Uttarakhand, and we will see many of these boys step up to make the state proud in the coming years, Verma noted. Article Source: IANS
Gill Refuses to Give Up on WTC Final Dream
Shubman Gill remains hopeful of India reaching the WTC final, but the team must win at least six of their remaining seven Tests.
'Fielded for about 250 overs, did everything we can' - Shubman Gill analyses Colombo Test draw
After the draw against Sri Lanka in Colombo, India captain Shubman Gill said there was little more his team could have done. Sonal Dinushas unbeaten 133 frustrated India, who eventually settled for a draw after the hosts declared later on Day 5 at the Sinhalese Sports Club on Thursday.
Anaya Bangar opens up on cricket comeback and WBBL dream
Trans-athlete Anaya Bangar, daughter of former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar, has been cleared to play community-level cricket in Australia and is aiming for the Women's Big Bash League (WBBL) by March 2027, following her gender-affirming surgery and Cricket Australia's comprehensive review of her case.
'Test Cricket Won Today...': Gill Hails Sri Lanka's Fightback
Shubman Gill hailed Sri Lanka's gritty resistance after Sonal Dinusha's second century forced India to settle for a draw in the second Test.
2nd Test: Would Have Been Better If We Got The Win In Colombo, Says Devdutt Padikkal
Devdutt Padikkal: Indias left-handed batter Devdutt Padikkal expressed mixed emotions after being named the Player of the Series in the 1-0 series win over Sri Lanka on Thursday, adding that while the individual recognition was gratifying, a victory in the second Test at the SSC Ground would have made it truly memorable. Padikkal enjoyed a standout tour with the bat by amassing 328 runs in two Tests, including hitting two centuries. In the absence of injured B Sai Sudharsan, Padikkal demonstrated immense maturity on slow, subcontinent surfaces. However, Sri Lankas stubborn rearguard effort on day five, highlighted by Sonal Dinushas unbeaten 133, ensured the match at the SSC Ground ended in a hard-fought draw for the hosts. It's great, but it would have been better if we got the win in this game. I think the two pitches were quite similar. It was pretty slow here, but at the end of the day the batters got better at playing on such surfaces and that showed over the last couple of days, Padikkal said after collecting his Player of the Series award. Elaborating on the tactical approach required to succeed on sluggish, turning tracks, Padikkal said, It takes a lot of clarity. You need to have clear plans. Everyone came with their own plans, and the way the batsmen applied themselves showed out there. Reflecting on his journey back into the national Test setup after spending time on the sidelines, Padikkal highlighted the mental toughness and persistence required to capitalise on opportunities at the highest level. You want to play for the country, so you keep working hard and try to help your teammates out and take your opportunities when you get them. It's important that you forget that as fast as possible and move on to the next ball, and that's what I tried to do. Reflecting on his journey back into the national Test setup after spending time on the sidelines, Padikkal highlighted the mental toughness and persistence required to capitalise on opportunities at the highest level. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Honestly, I'm just happy to score runs. It doesn't matter what position. The team must win, and as long as I'm contributing to that, I am happy. We are a very young side. Important that we continue to learn. Everyone is really hungry and looking forward to doing that and getting better, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Anushka, Bhatia to captain India A teams in home series against Australia A
Sixteen-year-old Deeya Yadav not picked in any squads after playing T20s against England A
2nd Test: 2nd Test: Getting Runs Against India Is A Pleasure, Says Dinusha After Sealing Heroic Draw
Sonal Dinusha: Sri Lanka batter Sonal Dinusha expressed immense satisfaction after his marathon batting efforts across the series, including hitting an unbeaten 133, helped the hosts secure a hard-fought draw in the second and final Test against India at the SSC Ground on Thursday. Dinusha, who was named the Player of the Match for his heroic knock in the second innings that saved the game for the hosts after Sri Lanka were forced to follow on, credited his preparation on turning tracks and lauded the lower order for standing firm alongside him to keep India at bay. First of all, I should mention who helped me get here. I want to mention our coaching staff and my school coach and provincial coach and family as well. It's really about the preparation at Galle, and here, I had an idea about the turning pitches, so I practised for that, Dinusha said after receiving his Player of the Match award to raucous applause from the Colombo crowd. In all, Dinusha ended the series with 419 runs at 139.66 and became a gem of a find for Sri Lanka. I would like to mention that the tailenders batted really well. It helped me get runs as well. I tried to do my best, reading the situation. I am really happy about that (getting three hundreds). When the team is down, I wanted to get runs for the team, so I am happy I was able to do that. Getting runs against India is a pleasure as a player, he added. First of all, I should mention who helped me get here. I want to mention our coaching staff and my school coach and provincial coach and family as well. It's really about the preparation at Galle, and here, I had an idea about the turning pitches, so I practised for that, Dinusha said after receiving his Player of the Match award to raucous applause from the Colombo crowd. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories However, de Silva also reflected on his own dismissal in the first innings, admitting it allowed India to assert dominance early in the match. Maybe in the second innings I should have batted longer. That's the point where they got back in the match. Article Source: IANS
Aiming To Pursue Elite Women's Cricket In Australia From March 2027: Anaya Bangar
Anaya Bangar says she does not have a team yet but is confident of making the breakthroughs that would open up the Women's Big Bash League for her next year.
Shubman Gill's 1st Reaction On India's WTC Final Chances After Draw In 2nd Test Against Sri Lanka
India skipper Shubman Gill reckoned Test cricket won after Sri Lanka produced a stirring rearguard action to help the hosts to a draw in the second match.
Captain Dhananjaya De Silva Credits Youngsters After Sri Lanka Draw Second Test Against India
Sri Lanka captain Dhananjaya de Silva credited the team's young players, selectors and coaching staff after his side produced a fighting performance to draw the second Test against India in Colombo on Thursday.
2nd Test: Honestly Nothing Could Be Done Differently, Says Shubman Gill After Draw In Colombo
World Test Championship: India captain Shubman Gill insisted his team gave everything it had on the field and expressed no regrets over his tactical decisions after Sri Lanka mounted a heroic rearguard effort to secure a draw in the second and final Test at the SSC Ground on Thursday. India needed to take out four wickets quickly and chase a small total to get a 2-0 series win. But they were left frustrated by a marathon unbeaten 133 from Sonal Dinusha, as the hosts comfortably kept India at bay on a docile day-five pitch. Honestly, nothing (could have been done differently). You field for so many overs over three days; we did everything we could, but they played really well. Their batters showed a lot of skill and had a little bit of luck as well, Gill said at the conclusion of the game, as India got a 1-0 series win. Addressing questions regarding his decision to enforce the follow-on, Gill noted that match decisions are made in the moment and cannot be judged through hindsight. In hindsight you can think (about the follow-on), but you can only talk about these things in hindsight. You take the best decision you can in the moment, and something doesn't go your way. But it was a brilliant game, and I think Test cricket won today. Despite being denied a 2-0 series sweep, Gill pointed to several positive takeaways for his side. I think there are a lot of positives for us. Also, learning from the opposition. They were under a lot of pressure, and the way they came back was tremendous. A lot of positives for us. Devdutt was brilliant, Manav was really good, and so was KL. Fast bowlers also did everything they could. Very exciting times for us. Left-arm spinner Suthar finished as the leading wicket-taker in the series with 16 scalps, and earned high praise from Gill. Everything impressed me about him. How consistent he is, how he releases the ball, and how it goes off his wrist and fingers. Very pleasing bowler to watch. He's going to be a very crucial bowler for us. Despite being denied a 2-0 series sweep, Gill pointed to several positive takeaways for his side. I think there are a lot of positives for us. Also, learning from the opposition. They were under a lot of pressure, and the way they came back was tremendous. A lot of positives for us. Devdutt was brilliant, Manav was really good, and so was KL. Fast bowlers also did everything they could. Very exciting times for us. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories It's important for us to be consistent on and off the field with our preparation and performance and how we go about things. Yes, we are going to New Zealand, so that'll be a good series for us and then a good home season. We'll keep believing, and hopefully we'll make it to the WTC final. Article Source: IANS
SA domestic teams to play more first-class matches in 2026-27 season
The eight division 1 provincial teams will play ten matches each, while the seven division 2 sides will play 12 matches each
Resilient Sri Lanka salvage draw as Dinusha denies India
Sri Lanka's Sonal Dinusha scored an unbeaten 133, his second century of the match, to help the hosts salvage a draw against India in the second Test, denying them a series sweep.
2nd Test: Dinushas Unbeaten 133 Helps Sri Lanka Seal Hard-fought Draw Against India (ld)
Though Sri Lanka: Sonal Dinusha capped a defining series with a second-innings masterclass in resolve and patience by hitting a marathon unbeaten 133 off 264 balls to help Sri Lanka seal a hard-fought draw against India in the second Test at the SSC Ground on Thursday. The result also meant that India won the two-game series 1-0. Forced to follow-on after making 290 in the first innings and starting Day Five with a slender 16-run lead, Dinushas rearguard and resilient efforts meant Sri Lanka reached 429/9 in 154 overs before declaring late in the final session. Keshara Nuwantha also showed his abilities with the bat, as did the tail-enders. The hosts being steely resilient with the bat meant only three wickets fell on the final day of the game and series. In the morning, resuming with a precarious 16-run lead on a pitch offering very little help to the bowlers, Sri Lanka added 100 unbroken runs in 31.2 overs of the first session, as Dinusha and Nuwantha walked back to a standing ovation from the hosts' dressing room. What looked like a simple task for India to take four remaining wickets developed into a full-blown headache. Opting for defensive, spread-out fields without close-in catchers, India allowed Dinusha and Nuwantha to rotate the strike and settle into an easy rhythm. Consequently, not a single Indian bowler managed to string together a consistently threatening over, with the seamers mostly bowling away from the stumps. Dinusha anchored the fightback with a flawless knock laced with only two boundaries and continued his exceptional run to register his fourth consecutive 50-plus score of the series. He was wonderful in playing the spinners with deft sweeps and driving cleanly through the off-side. It also earned left-handed batter Dinusha a place in an elite group of batters to achieve fifty or more in each of their first four Test innings against India. At the other end, Nuwantha looked increasingly assured against both pace and spin, with drive being his go-to shot. He negotiated the second new ball spells from Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna with soft hands and admirable patience. Indias frustration boiled over in the 90th over when Siraj burned a review on a desperate caught-behind appeal against Nuwantha, only for the DRS to reveal the bat had merely hit the turf. In an eventful final over, Nuwantha survived a final scare on the stroke of lunch when on-field umpire Ahsan Raza adjudged him LBW off Ravindra Jadeja. He immediately reviewed the decision, and DRS confirmed the delivery was sliding comfortably down leg, as Sri Lanka walked off as the happier side at lunch. Though Sri Lanka added only 54 runs in the second session, they still managed to keep India at bay, as Dinusha got his second standing ovation of the day from the Sri Lankan dressing room. India began on a high as Suthar took out a patient Nuwantha by having him caught at second slip and breaking the 112-run partnership. Dinusha kept going with immense patience - combining defensive discipline with calculated strokeplay, especially by showcasing various types of sweep shots in his repertoire. He found capable support in Kumara, who mounted a stoic blockathon to frustrate the weary Indian attack. Though Suthar broke through early in the stretch, India didnt find many clear-cut opportunities to get more scalps and end Sri Lankas defiant innings. Veteran left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja provided the second breakthrough of the session when he removed Prabath Jayasuriya for two after having him caught at slip. But Indias hopes of quickly mopping up the tail were stymied by Kumara, who absorbed 56 deliveries for his unbeaten knock. He survived a close run-out chance when a wide throw from Prasidh Krishna allowed him to dive back safely, while also edging past a vacant second slip off Saransh Jain. At the other end, Dinusha masterfully managed the strike and capitalised on any rare boundary offerings. The left-hander repeatedly deployed the reverse sweep against Jain and Jadeja to break the pressure, while late-cutting and paddling with precision to be on the cusp of getting another three-figure score in the series. Though India rotated their bowling options well and had close-in fielders, they were rendered ineffective by a combination of solid defensive cricket led by Dinusha and a pitch offering very little help till tea break arrived. The final session began with Dinusha reaching his second century of the match off the very first ball. Clipping a full delivery from Mohammed Siraj into the mid-wicket pocket for a couple, Dinusha took off his helmet and raised his bat to soak in the applause for his third hundred of the series. The landmark made him only the third Sri Lankan to score three centuries in a two-match Test series after Aravinda de Silva and Kumar Sangakkara, and the eighth man from his country to hit twin tons in a Test. Indias tiring attack struggled to break down Sri Lankas lower-order defiance throughout the final session. Siraj was limited in his bowling overs due to a physical niggle, while Jadeja also laboured through discomfort. With all that in mind, Sri Lankas tail dug in to completely extinguish Indias victory hopes. Lahiru Kumara grounded it out for a stoic 12 off 90 balls before falling to Jadeja, after being caught brilliantly by Jaiswal at short leg. Dinusha accelerated by launching both Jadeja and Gill over deep mid-wicket for a brace of sixes before striking successive boundaries off Jaiswals leg-spin, as he put on 27 runs for a last-wicket stand with Asitha Fernando, who was unbeaten on 0, but more importantly played 24 balls. By the time hands were shaken and a draw was called, Dinusha took his series tally to 419 runs at an average of 139.66. The Sri Lankan dressing room gave the youngster a standing ovation for the third time in the day, with Indian players offering warm congratulations for a heroic marathon effort that saved the Test for the hosts after they were in danger of losing it quickly. Dinusha accelerated by launching both Jadeja and Gill over deep mid-wicket for a brace of sixes before striking successive boundaries off Jaiswals leg-spin, as he put on 27 runs for a last-wicket stand with Asitha Fernando, who was unbeaten on 0, but more importantly played 24 balls. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories India 503/9 dec in 138 overs drew with Sri Lanka 290 and (f/o) 429/9 in 154 overs (Sonal Dinusha 133 not out, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92; Manav Suthar 3-105, Ravindra Jadeja 3-94) Article Source: IANS
WTC Standings: India Stay Fifth After Colombo Test Ends In Draw
The draw in the second Test saw India miss out on a chance to improve their position in the ICC World Test Championship standings.
Dinusha's defiant 133* earns Sri Lanka epic draw in Colombo
Dinusha got solid support from the Sri Lankan lower order as India were made to toil on the fifth day, managing just three wickets
Anushka, Bhatia to Share India A Leadership vs Australia A
Anushka Sharma will captain India A in T20s, while Yastika Bhatia leads the One-Day and multi-day teams against Australia A across three venues.
2nd Test: Dinushas Marathon Unbeaten 133 Helps SL Seal Hard-fought Draw Against India
The Sri Lankan: Sonal Dinusha capped a defining series with a second-innings masterclass in resolve and patience by hitting a marathon unbeaten 133 off 264 balls to help Sri Lanka seal a hard-fought draw against India in the second Test at the SSC Ground on Thursday. The result also meant that India won the two-game series 1-0. Forced to follow on after making 290 in the first innings and starting day five with a slender 16-run lead, Dinushas rearguard and resilient efforts meant Sri Lanka reached 429/9 in 154 overs before declaring late in the final session. In a stark reflection of Indias bowling exhaustion on an unresponsive pitch, captain Shubman Gill, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel were called upon to bowl the closing overs of the match. But the day belonged entirely to the young left-hander Dinusha, who reached his second century of the match off the very first ball after the tea break was over. Clipping a full delivery from Mohammed Siraj into the mid-wicket pocket for a couple, Dinusha took off his helmet and raised his bat to soak in the applause for his third hundred of the series. The landmark made him only the third Sri Lankan to score three centuries in a two-match Test series after Aravinda de Silva and Kumar Sangakkara, and the eighth man from his country to hit twin tons in a Test. Indias tiring attack struggled to break down Sri Lankas lower-order defiance throughout the final session. Siraj was limited in his bowling overs due to a physical niggle, while Ravindra Jadeja also laboured through discomfort. With all that in mind, Sri Lankas tail dug in to completely extinguish Indias victory hopes. Lahiru Kumara grounded it out for a stoic 12 off 90 balls before falling to Jadeja, after being caught brilliantly by Jaiswal at short leg. Dinusha accelerated by launching both Jadeja and Gill over deep mid-wicket for a brace of sixes before striking successive boundaries off Jaiswals leg-spin, as he put on 27 runs for a last-wicket stand with Asitha Fernando, who was unbeaten on 0, but more importantly played 24 balls. By the time hands were shaken and a draw was called, Dinusha took his series tally to 419 runs at an average of 139.66. The Sri Lankan dressing room gave the youngster a standing ovation for the third time that day, with Indian players offering warm congratulations for a heroic marathon effort that saved the Test for the hosts after they were in danger of losing it quickly. Dinusha accelerated by launching both Jadeja and Gill over deep mid-wicket for a brace of sixes before striking successive boundaries off Jaiswals leg-spin, as he put on 27 runs for a last-wicket stand with Asitha Fernando, who was unbeaten on 0, but more importantly played 24 balls. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories India 503/9 dec in 138 overs draw with Sri Lanka 290 and (f/o) 429/9 in 154 overs (Sonal Dinusha 133 not out, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92; Manav Suthar 3-105, Ravindra Jadeja 3-94) Article Source: IANS
'He's Going to...': Why Dinusha Will be Major Force for Sri Lanka
Avishka Gunawardene acknowledged India's dominance but hailed Sonal Dinusha's breakthrough, with the young batter scoring 420 runs, including three centuries, as a major positive for Sri Lanka.
Pakistan win toss, bowl as Salman Agha makes way for captain Babar Azam
Stand-in skipper replaced by Babar in only change to sides from first Test, won by England
Simran Dil Bahadur: Wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia and batting all-rounder Anushka Sharma have been named captains of the India A squads for the upcoming multi-format home series against Australia A, the BCCI said on Thursday. Anushka will lead India A in the T20 games, with seam-bowling all-rounder Sayali Satghare acting as her deputy. Yastika will come to take charge of both the 50-over squad and the red-ball sides, with Anushka serving as vice-captain in those two formats. The womens selection committee have made notable structural adjustments across formats when compared to the India A squads that toured England in July and won the 50-over series. In the T20 setup, top-order batter Tejal Hasabnis, fast bowler Sayali Satghare, wicketkeeper Shipra Giri, and Sujata Dey have earned call-ups. They replace G Kamalini, Purvaja Verlekar, Saima Thakor, and Deeya Yadav from the unit that played in England. For the 50-over matches, Yastika, the first batter to hit a century in a womens Test match at Lords, steps in to captain the side. The one-day roster features new additions in left-arm wrist-spinner Amandeep Kaur and pacer Akshita Bhagat, alongside Tejal Hasabnis and Anushka Sharma, who missed out on the previous 50-over leg in England. They come into the 50-over team in place of Harleen Deol, Pratika Rawal, G Kamalini, Tanuja Kanwer, and Saima Thakor. The squad for the multi-day fixture in Dharamshala sees the inclusion of Test batter Shubha Satheesh, all-rounder Sushree Dibyadarshini, left-arm spinner Shuchi Upadhyay, and wicketkeeper Mamata Madiwala. The series will commence with three T20 matches in New Chandigarh on September 12, 15, and 17, respectively. The action then shifts to the PCA Stadium in Mohali for three 50-over fixtures scheduled for September 20, 23, and 25, respectively. The tour will conclude with the four-day match in Dharamshala, to be played from September 29 to October 2. India A T20 games squad: Anushka Sharma (captain), Sayali Satghare (vc), Vrinda Dinesh, Sujata Dey, Tejal Hasabnis, Nikki Prasad, Shipra Giri (wk), Shweta Sehrawat, Uma Chetry (wk), Tanuja Kanwer, Minnu Mani, Vaishnavi Sharma, Jintimani Kalita, Shabnam Shakeel, and Simran Dil Bahadur The series will commence with three T20 matches in New Chandigarh on September 12, 15, and 17, respectively. The action then shifts to the PCA Stadium in Mohali for three 50-over fixtures scheduled for September 20, 23, and 25, respectively. The tour will conclude with the four-day match in Dharamshala, to be played from September 29 to October 2. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories India A Multi-Day game squad: Yastika Bhatia (captain & wk), Anushka Sharma (vc), Shubha Satheesh, Priya Punia, Tanisha Singh, Tejal Hasabnis, Nikki Prasad, Mamata Madiwala (wk), Sushree Dibyadarshini, Shuchi Upadhyay, Vaishnavi Sharma, Sayali Satghare, Jintimani Kalita, Shabnam Shakeel, and Akshita Bhagat Article Source: IANS
The second Test between India and Sri Lanka at R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo ended in a draw, as the Shubman Gill-led side had no answer to Sonal Dinushas resistance. The day started with Sri Lanka enjoying a 16-run lead, but with only four wickets remaining, India entered as the favourites. However, as the clock turned noon, the Dhananjaya de Silva-led side grew in confidence and put pressure back on India.
Sonal Dinusha Joins Elite List With 3 Centuries During India vs Sri Lanka Test Series
Sri Lanka batter Sonal Dinusha became the third player from his country to score three centuries in a two-match Test series, achieving the milestone during the second Test against India in Colombo.
It was a frustrating day for the Shubman Gill-led Indian cricket team in the second Test against Sri Lanka. Coming into Day 5, nobody predicted the fight that Sonal Dinusha and Co. would conjure to keep India at bay
Addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Union Minister for Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya on Thursday said India had, for the first time, begun viewing sports as a national priority rather than merely an activity, while highlighting the government's wider efforts to provide young people with opportunities, mentorship and a greater role in the country's development and policymaking. Addressing Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Khelo India Dialogue, Mandaviya said the government's approach towards youth development had sought to combine opportunities in sports, skills and nation-building through platforms designed to channel the energy and ideas of young Indians. Prime Minister, you have considered youth to be the future of India. You have also said that they are the future of India. For the first time, the country has seen sports as a national priority, not just an activity, Mandaviya said. Mandaviya pointed to the launch of the My Bharat platform in 2023 as part of efforts to provide young people with direction, mentorship and opportunities to contribute to national development. To strengthen this vision on the ground, you started a powerful platform like My Bharat in 2023. Our youth had the desire for energy, ideas, passion and service. But they also needed the right direction, mentorship, and opportunity. Today, My India is fulfilling these needs as a one-stop solution. Across the country, more than 2.66 crore youth have joined us. They are contributing to the nation's development alongside their careers, he added. The Sports Minister also highlighted the Developed India Young Leader Dialogue, saying the initiative had created a direct channel for young people to contribute ideas that could feed into the policymaking process. By advancing this vision, you have connected youth and ideas directly to policy-making through the Developed India Young Leader Dialogue. Prime Minister, on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda's birthday on 12th January, you sang a song with the youth. You listened to their ideas and interacted with them. Mandaviya said the interaction had helped reinforce among young people the belief that their ideas could have a tangible role in shaping the country's future. By advancing this vision, you have connected youth and ideas directly to policy-making through the Developed India Young Leader Dialogue. Prime Minister, on the occasion of Swami Vivekananda's birthday on 12th January, you sang a song with the youth. You listened to their ideas and interacted with them. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He further said the government had opened up new avenues for young people seeking opportunities and skill development. Prime Minister, you have opened new doors for opportunities for the youth. If any youth wants to develop skills, you have launched the Prime Minister's Skills Development Programme. Article Source: IANS
Sonal Dinusha becomes third Sri Lanka cricketer to achieve major feat in Test cricket
Sri Lanka all-rounder Sonal Dinusha played a commendable knock in the second innings of the second Test against India in Colombo. The hosts were made to follow on after the first innings and they faced the heat in the second as well, being reduced to 218/6 at one stage, but Sonal rose to the occasion and single-handedly rescued the team from danger.
Sonal Dinusha Joins Kumar Sangakkara, Andy Flower In Elite List With Ton In 2nd Test Against India
Sri Lankan batter Sonal Dinusha joined legends Kumar Sangakkara and Andy Flower in elite lists as he smashed his fourth successive fifty-plus score against India at Colombo on Thursday.
After three years of hard work, the inaugural edition of the European T20 Premier League kicked off in Voorburg with the Dutch derby between Rotterdam Dockers and Amsterdam Flames
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2nd Test: Dinusha Nears Another Ton As Sri Lanka Extend Lead To 170
Sri Lanka: Sonal Dinusha continued his exceptional display of composure and technical resilience by guiding Sri Lanka into a position of relative security with a gritty, unbeaten 98 off 195 balls, as the hosts reached 383/8 in 133 overs at tea on day fives play at the SSC Ground on Thursday, holding an overall lead of 170 runs. India took only two wickets across two sessions on the final day as Sri Lanka added 54 crucial runs before tea. Battling to keep India at bay, Dinusha walked off to his second standing ovation of the day from the Sri Lankan dressing room, setting up a decisive final session of the match and series. Resuming after India struck an early blow, Manav Suthar dismissed the patient Keshara Nuwantha. Dinusha anchored the innings with immense patience, combining defensive discipline with calculated strokeplay, especially by showcasing various sweep shots in his repertoire. He received solid support from tailender Lahiru Kumara, who is unbeaten on two off 56 balls and crafted a resilient blockathon that frustrated the tiring Indian bowlers during the afternoon session. Although Suthar managed to break through early in that period, India struggled to find clear chances for more wickets and to end Sri Lankas stubborn innings. Veteran left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja provided the second breakthrough of the session, removing Prabath Jayasuriya for two after he was caught at slip. But Indias hopes of quickly mopping up the tail were stymied by Kumara, who absorbed 56 deliveries for his unbeaten knock. He survived a close run-out chance when a wide throw from Prasidh Krishna allowed him to dive back safely, while also edging past a vacant second slip off Saransh Jain. At the other end, Dinusha masterfully managed the strike and capitalised on any rare boundary opportunities. Veteran left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja provided the second breakthrough of the session, removing Prabath Jayasuriya for two after he was caught at slip. But Indias hopes of quickly mopping up the tail were stymied by Kumara, who absorbed 56 deliveries for his unbeaten knock. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief Scores: India 503/9d in 138 overs trail Sri Lanka 290 and 383/8 f/o in 133 overs (Sonal Dinusha 98 not out, Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92; Manav Suthar 3-105, Ravindra Jadeja 2-90) by 170 runs Article Source: IANS
England vs Pakistan Live Score 2nd Test Day 1
England vs Pakistan Live: The toss for the second Test between England and Pakistan has been delayed due to rain at Lord's.
Cheteshwar Pujara's tenure in the Indian cricket team from 2010 to 2023 saw the rise of India as a formidable fast-bowling unit.
Dehradun T20 Leagues Goal Is To Provide An Environment That Speeds Up Their Growth: Mahim Verma
Dehradun T20 League: Former BCCI vice-president and former Cricket Association of Uttarakhand secretary Mahim Verma believes the inaugural Dehradun T20 League 2026 will provide a crucial platform for young cricketers in the state, offering them greater exposure and an opportunity to develop in a professional competitive environment. The six-team franchise tournament will be held from September 2 to 9 at the Abhimanyu Cricket Academy in Dehradun, featuring Rishikesh Dragons, Doiwala Kings, Mussoorie Thunder, Herbertpur Knightriders, Vikasnagar Dhamaka and Selaqui Strikers. A total of 18 matches will be played during the competition. Verma said one of the league's primary objectives was to bridge the gap between grassroots cricket and the professional game by giving promising players an environment in which they could test themselves under pressure. Our main goal with the Dehradun T20 League is to give our boys the kind of environment that speeds up their growth. Uttarakhand has no shortage of raw talent, but what our young players needed was a high-exposure platform where they could test themselves under pressure, learn professional match standards, and get noticed, Verma said. Navneet Mishra, CEO of the Dehradun T20 League, said organisers had focused on creating a professional ecosystem for players through investment in infrastructure, broadcast facilities and player welfare. We haven't spared any effort in making sure this league matches the highest professional standards in terms of infrastructure, broadcast, and player facilities. Our focus is to create an ecosystem where young athletes feel valued and inspired to perform at their absolute best. Seeing the enthusiasm from players and franchises alike gives us complete confidence that this league will become a cornerstone for cricket development in the region, Mishra stated. According to Verma, one of the key benefits for emerging players will be the opportunity to share dressing rooms and playing environments with experienced domestic cricketers, helping them understand the demands of competing at higher levels. When an 18 or 19-year-old kid shares a dugout with established domestic names, their entire perspective changes. They learn how to handle big-match pressure, how to prepare mentally, and how to carry themselves as professionals. That exposure is priceless, and it will give them the confidence to perform at higher levels of Indian cricket, Verma added. All 18 matches, including 15 league fixtures, two semi-finals and the final, will provide the tournament and its players a wider audience. When an 18 or 19-year-old kid shares a dugout with established domestic names, their entire perspective changes. They learn how to handle big-match pressure, how to prepare mentally, and how to carry themselves as professionals. That exposure is priceless, and it will give them the confidence to perform at higher levels of Indian cricket, Verma added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With the inaugural edition set to get underway next month, the organisers are hoping the Dehradun T20 League will establish a stronger pathway for emerging talent and become a significant platform for the continued development of cricket in Uttarakhand. Article Source: IANS
England Cricket Hit By Fresh Controversy As Brydon Carse Nightclub Incident Takes New Twist
In an official statement, Derbyshire Police revealed that it has launched an investigation into the matter but has not made any arrests so far.
Cricketer Asif Khan Banned For Doping
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BCCI Vice-President Sees Shades Of Sachin Tendulkar In This Sri Lankan Batter
Sonal Dinusha is having a ball in the two-Test series against India with four fifty-plus scores
I'm A Manchester City Guy, Like The Way They Play, Says Rachin Ravindra
Premier League Season: New Zealand all-rounder Rachin Ravindra has revealed his deep admiration for Premier League champions Manchester City, citing their controlling style of play as the main reason for his allegiance to the English football giants. Manchester City will face Crystal Palace in the Premier League Season 2026/27 on August 29. I'm a Manchester City guy. I've followed them for a while. I like the way they play and the style of football they bring. Watching them is always exciting, and I enjoy seeing how they control games, Ravindra said to JioStar on Wednesday. Recalling his experiences of watching top-tier matches live at the stadium, Ravindra, the attacking left-handed batter who also bowls left-arm orthodox spin, singled out a visit to the Etihad Stadium as the pivotal moment that cemented his support for the club. I've had two incredible football experiences. One of them made me a Manchester City fan. They hosted me at the Etihad (Stadium) for the first Premier League game of last season against Tottenham. We didn't win, but it was still a great day. More recently, I went to the Round of 16 match between Spain and Portugal in Dallas. That was one of the best days of my life. It might have been Ronaldo's last international game, which was a bit sad, but it was special to be there, he added. I've had two incredible football experiences. One of them made me a Manchester City fan. They hosted me at the Etihad (Stadium) for the first Premier League game of last season against Tottenham. We didn't win, but it was still a great day. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I'd say Chris Woakes. He would make a very solid centre-back. He's good on the ball, comfortable under pressure, and reads the game well. I think he has the skills to play that role. Article Source: IANS
Sonal Dinusha Creates History, Matches Jardine, Sanga
Sri Lankan batter Sonal Dinusha has made history by smashing his fourth successive fifty-plus score against India in the ongoing Test series, joining an elite group of cricketing legends.
ETPL: Faf Du Plessis Powers Rotterdam Dockers To Five-Wicket Win In Dutch Derby
The European T20 Premier League could hardly have asked for a more compelling opening chapter
UAE Batter Asif Handed 15-month Ban After Testing Positive For Banned Substance
United Arab Emirates: United Arab Emirates (UAE) batter Asif Khan has been handed a 15-month ban from all cricket activities after testing positive for a prohibited substance, the International Cricket Council (ICC) announced on Thursday. Asif, 36, admitted to breaching Article 2.1 of the ICC Anti-Doping Code after an out-of-competition test on September 8, 2025, detected a metabolite of mesterolone. Article 2.1 specifies that an anti-doping violation occurs when a prohibited substance, its metabolites, or markers are found in a cricketer's urine or blood sample. Asif admitted the violation of Article 2.1 of the ICC Anti-Doping Code and accepted a 15-month period of ineligibility pursuant to a Case Resolution Agreement entered into with the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the International Cricket Council (ICC). The players individual results from 8 September 2025 until his provisional suspension on 29 December 2025 have been disqualified, along with all resulting consequences, including the loss of any medals, points, prize money or prizes. There is no right of appeal under the Case Resolution Agreement, the ICC said in its statement. Generally found in urine samples, Mesterolone is a synthetic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) that is banned by WADA both in-competition and out-of-competition. The players individual results from 8 September 2025 until his provisional suspension on 29 December 2025 have been disqualified, along with all resulting consequences, including the loss of any medals, points, prize money or prizes. There is no right of appeal under the Case Resolution Agreement, the ICC said in its statement. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Asif has represented the UAE in 38 ODIs and 56 T20Is since making his international debut in 2022, amassing 1270 and 1302 runs respectively. His last international appearances came in 2025, before the 15-month ban came into effect. Article Source: IANS
Ex-India Star Urges Youngsters To Choose Test Cricket Over IPL Glamour
Former Indian cricketer Javagal Srinath had an important word of advice for young players, encouraging them to take Test cricket more seriously if they want a longer career in sports.
India vs Sri Lanka 2nd Test: Dinusha, Nuwantha frustrate India with dogged partnership on Day 5
The Indian bowlers added one more chapter to their age-old struggles against late order batters
The stage is set for the second Test of the ongoing series between England and Pakistan. The two sides are slated to take on each other at Lords Cricket Ground in London from August 27th,...
Dravid Jr and Sehwag Jr in India Under-19 one-day squad for Australia series
Lakshya Raichandani to lead India Under-19s in the one-dayers, and Yashbardhan Chauhan in the multi-day matches
Anvay Dravid and Aaryavir Sehwag included in India U-19 ODI squad for Australia series
The BCCI selection committee picked separate squads for the three one-day matches and two multi-day games, with Lakshya Raichandani set to lead the ODI side and Yashbardhan Singh Chauhan named captain for the longer-format fixtures
2nd Test: Dinusha, Nuwantha Fight Back For Sri Lanka In Wicketless Morning Session
With Sri Lanka: Sonal Dinusha (55 not out) and Keshara Nuwantha (46 not out) engineered a spectacular seventh-wicket rearguard partnership, batting through a wicketless morning session to steer Sri Lanka to 329/6 off 104 overs and swell the lead to 116 runs at lunch on day five of the second Test against India at the SSC Ground on Thursday. Resuming with a precarious 16-run lead on a pitch offering little help to the bowlers, Sri Lanka added 100 unbroken runs in 31.2 overs and left India clueless about dislodging the unbeaten batters Dinusha and Nuwantha, who walked back to a standing ovation from the hosts' dressing room. With the partnership still unbroken at 111 off 238 balls, Sri Lanka are now daring to dream of drawing the game. A lead approaching 200 runs will set the stage for a riveting conclusion to the Test match, provided the forecasted rain stays away. What looked like a simple task for India to take the four remaining wickets has become a full-blown headache. Opting for defensive, spread-out fields without close-in catchers, India allowed Dinusha and Nuwantha to rotate the strike and settle into an easy rhythm. Consequently, no Indian bowler managed to string together a consistently threatening over, with the seamers mostly bowling away from the stumps. Dinusha anchored the fightback with a flawless knock, laced with only two boundaries, and continued his exceptional run to register his fourth consecutive 50-plus score of the series. He was wonderful against the spinners, using deft sweeps and driving cleanly through the off-side. It also earned left-handed batter Dinusha a place in an elite group of batters to score fifty or more in each of their first four Test innings against India. At the other end, Nuwantha, primarily a bowling all-rounder, looked increasingly assured against both pace and spin, with the drive his go-to shot. He negotiated the second-new-ball spells from Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna with soft hands and admirable patience. Indias frustration boiled over in the 90th over when Siraj used a review on a desperate caught-behind appeal against Nuwantha, only for the DRS to reveal the ball had merely hit the turf. In an eventful final over, Nuwantha survived a final scare on the stroke of lunch when on-field umpire Ahsan Raza adjudged him lbw off Ravindra Jadeja. At the other end, Nuwantha, primarily a bowling all-rounder, looked increasingly assured against both pace and spin, with the drive his go-to shot. He negotiated the second-new-ball spells from Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna with soft hands and admirable patience. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief Scores: India 503/9d in 138 overs trail Sri Lanka 290 and 329/6 f/o in 104 overs (Pasindu Sooriyabandara 92, Sonal Dinusha 55 not out; Manav Suthar 2-98, Mohammed Siraj 1-19) by 116 runs Article Source: IANS
2nd Test: Sri Lanka Lower Order Frustrate India On Day 5
Sonal Dinusha and Keshara Nuwantha displayed remarkable resilience, stonewalling the Indian bowling attack for an entire session on the fifth day of the second Test. Their unbroken 111-run seventh-wicket partnership helped Sri Lanka extend their lead and avoid an imminent defeat, highlighting India's persistent struggles against lower-order batsmen.
BCCI name India U19's squad upcoming Australia series, Sehwag-Dravid's sons make the cut
The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) has come forward and named India U19s squad for the upcoming multi-format series against Australia U19. It is worth noting that Australia will be touring India for the series, and both sides will take on each other across three one-day matches and two multi-day fixtures.
Sons Of Two India Greats Picked For U-19 National Team vs Australia
Legendary batters Rahul Dravid's and Virender Sehwag's sons, Anvay and Aaryavir respectively, were on Thursday included in India's Under-19 squad for the upcoming one-day series against Australia
Dravid and Sehwag's sons named in India U-19 squad
Anvay Dravid and Aaryavir Sehwag, sons of India greats Rahul Dravid and Virender Sehwag, have been named in the India U-19 squad for Australia series.
Aaryavir Sehwag, Anvay Dravid Picked In India U-19 Squad For Series Against Australia
The Junior Men: Aaryavir Sehwag, son of former India opener Virender Sehwag, and Anvay Dravid, son of former captain and head coach Rahul Dravid, have been named in the India Under-19 squad for the upcoming three-match one-day series against Australia U-19. The Junior Mens Selection Committee, whose term is ending soon, announced the squads for the home assignment, comprising three 50-over matches in Rajkot on September 18, 21 and 23. This is followed by two red-ball multi-day fixtures to be played from September 27-30 in Rajkot and from October 5-8 at Ahmedabads Narendra Modi Stadium B Ground. The 50-over side will be led by Uttarakhand batter Lakshya Raichandani, with Madhya Pradesh batter Yashbardhan Chauhan as his deputy. Chauhan will take over as captain for the red-ball leg, with Raichandani serving as his vice-captain. While leg-spin all-rounder Aaryavir and wicketkeeper-batter Anvay secured places in the 15-member one-day unit, neither is in the squad selected for the two long-format games. Aaryavir is currently playing for West Delhi Lions in the 2026 Delhi Premier League (DPL) and has played only two games so far. Anvay, meanwhile, scored 101 runs in two 50-over games for India U19 on their July tour of Sri Lanka. On that tour, India U19 lost the 50-over series 2-1 but won the red-ball series 1-0. Apart from Aaryavir, Manal Chauhan and Chigurupati Venkata have been included in the 50-over games against Australia, with Sagar Virk, Anmoljeet Singh, and Ishan Sood omitted. In the multi-day games squad, wicketkeeper-batter Abhipray Biswas (WK), Ishan Om, Ayaan Akram, Mohit Ulva, and Aryan Yadav are included, replacing wicketkeeper-batter Aryan Sandesh Sakpal, Hemchudeshan J, BK Kishore, Kavya Paresh Patel, and Chigurupati Venkata. Anvay, meanwhile, scored 101 runs in two 50-over games for India U19 on their July tour of Sri Lanka. On that tour, India U19 lost the 50-over series 2-1 but won the red-ball series 1-0. Apart from Aaryavir, Manal Chauhan and Chigurupati Venkata have been included in the 50-over games against Australia, with Sagar Virk, Anmoljeet Singh, and Ishan Sood omitted. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories India U19 squad for multi-day fixtures: Yashbardhan Chauhan (captain), Lakshya Raichandani (vc), Sagar Virk, Kushagra Ojha, Manal Chauhan, Kush Patel, Manav Krishna (wk), Abhipray Biswas (wk), Rohit Yadav, Ishan Om, Ayaan Akram, Pranav Ragavendra, Priyanshu Singh, Mohit Ulva, and Aryan Yadav. Article Source: IANS
India's Tour To New Zealand Sees Record Ticket Demand
India's multi-format cricket tour of New Zealand has seen unprecedented early ticket sales, with 26,000 tickets sold in the first 48 hours of the pre-sale. The 12-match series, starting in October, is proving to be a major draw, particularly for white-ball matches, prompting New Zealand Cricket to urge fans to secure their seats quickly.
India tour of New Zealand drives record early ticket sales
Early sales have also been strong for matches in Wellington, which will host the third T20I and second ODI, while the Basin Reserve will stage the opening Test from November 19.
