BBL, WBBL Contracting Delay Should've Been Resolved By Now, Admits Greenberg
New South Wales Cricket: Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg has admitted that the ongoing contract delays in the Big Bash League (BBL) and Womens Big Bash League (WBBL) should have been resolved earlier, as negotiations with the Australian Cricketers Association (ACA) are still in a deadlock over revenue-sharing models. With barely two months remaining before the WBBL season kicks off, franchises are unable to finalise their squads due to an embargo triggered by the delay in signing a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). Add to it, several Big Bash League players have voiced frustration at earning significantly less than overseas recruits in recent seasons, with their pay packets falling well short of global market rates offered in competitions such as the SA20 and ILT20 - a disparity attributed to the overseas draft. Weve got to unlock the contracting system pretty quickly. I think theres some final conversations going on at the moment, but yeah, we should have resolved it by now, so weve got to get moving. Weve got a big season to run. We want to be as successful as we can, Greenberg was quoted as saying by Cricinfo, on the sidelines of the ongoing first Test between Australia and Bangladesh. Greenberg revealed he held talks with ACA counterpart Paul Marsh on Wednesday, but both parties remain divided. The ACA has demanded an increase in the players' current 27.5 percent revenue share from the league - a proposal CA has firmly rejected. Were just at a fundamental difference at the moment. Australian cricket are strong believers and supporters of the revenue share model. I think its been great for cricket. Its great for the players. What were not supportive of is increasing the amount of percentage (share) that is. And so the ACA have put forward a proposal which increases it, and weve rejected that one. So weve got to find a way to get an outcome thats palatable for the ACA and palatable for us, he added. Were just at a fundamental difference at the moment. Australian cricket are strong believers and supporters of the revenue share model. I think its been great for cricket. Its great for the players. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mike and I have got sessions with the boards of both New South Wales Cricket and Queensland Cricket in the next few weeks, and we want to have those conversations, and we want to have them in person before we go back to the board in September to make a final call, concluded Greenberg. Article Source: IANS
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Aiming To Make Most Of Being In The Hundred Ahead Of Womens Asia Cup: Deepti
ODI World Cup: India's off-spin bowling all-rounder Deepti Sharma said she is utilising her ongoing stint with Sunrisers Leeds in The Hundred womens competition to sharpen her game across all departments ahead of the crucial Womens Asia Cup starting on August 28 in Dubai. Turning out for Sunrisers Leeds, Deepti is the joint second-highest wicket-taker in the competition with 12 scalps. There is still some time left for the Women's Champions Trophy, which will be played in February 2027. So right now, my focus is on The Hundred. The Women's Asia Cup is starting from 28th August, and that is an important tournament for the Indian team. Playing in The Hundred is giving me a great opportunity to work on my skills in all three departments, batting, bowling, and fielding. I am trying to make the most of this tournament so that I can go into the Asia Cup well prepared. I am giving my best for Sunrisers Leeds, and that will help me grow as a player and also benefit the team in the long run, Deepti told JioStar. Expressing her joy at representing Sunrisers Leeds, Deepti admitted that playing at home in front of a passionate crowd has been a unique experience. I was very excited when I was picked for Sunrisers Leeds, because orange is my favourite colour. So, it always feels good wherever I see orange. Playing on our home ground here in Leeds is special. The ground is full of Sunrisers fans, and everywhere I look, I see orange. I think the fans must also be enjoying watching us perform well at home. As a team, we really appreciate each other's contributions, whether it's a good innings or a tight bowling spell. We are enjoying that as a group. The more we learn from these experiences, the better it will be for us, she added. Speaking about the pressure and honour that comes with representing the country on the international stage, Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in 2025 Womens ODI World Cup triumph, stated that playing for India remains the ultimate moment of pride for her. When you wear the blue jersey, it fills you with pride, for yourself, for your family, and for your country. It's not just a jersey; it's the result of years of hard work and sacrifice. When expectations are high and you are able to deliver for the nation, that feeling is special. There is a responsibility that comes with it, but it's a responsibility we all welcome. Everyone wants us to succeed as a team and bring happiness to the fans who support us. That is what drives us to keep giving our best every time we step onto the field. Speaking about the pressure and honour that comes with representing the country on the international stage, Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in 2025 Womens ODI World Cup triumph, stated that playing for India remains the ultimate moment of pride for her. When you wear the blue jersey, it fills you with pride, for yourself, for your family, and for your country. It's not just a jersey; it's the result of years of hard work and sacrifice. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The more I can contribute to the team, the better it is. I really enjoy taking on challenges. Whenever tough situations come up, I'm always ready for them. I actually enjoy those pressure moments because they push me to perform better, she concluded. Article Source: IANS
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1st Test: WTC Points, Pride At Stake As India Gear Up For Trial By Spin Against SL (Preview)
Sri Lanka Cricket XI: A high-stakes trial by spin amidst sweltering humidity awaits Shubman Gill-led India when they take on Sri Lanka in the first of the two Tests at the iconic Galle International Stadium on Saturday. The encounter marks a milestone moment as the picturesque coastal venue plays host to its 50th Test match. However, beneath that backdrop lies a desperate scramble for World Test Championship (WTC) survival for both sub-continental teams. Standing at fifth spot in the WTC standings following embarrassing home series defeats to New Zealand and South Africa, India find themselves on a sticky wicket. With their long-standing Test aura severely dented and head coach Gautam Gambhir under immense scrutiny to revive their red-ball fortunes, Shubman Gills men are in a must-win scenario. Sri Lanka, sitting just below India at sixth, are equally pressed for points. Indias immediate challenge stems from a stark lack of red-ball game time having played just one Test in 2026, a brief one-off outing against Afghanistan in June. Added to the mix is the unfamiliarity between the two sides in this format, with India last playing a Test series on the island nation back in 2017. That fact makes KL Rahul (2015 and 2017 tours) and Ravindra Jadeja (2017 tour) the most experienced campaigners in the team, thanks to their prior experience of playing Tests in the island nation. Apart from navigating the heat and humidity (provided rains dont come in the way), India also has to adapt its plans to the Kookaburra ball, especially when it gets a little bit soft. To counter that, India came 10 days earlier and even won a three-day warm-up game over Sri Lanka Cricket XI in Colombo. On Galle's traditional slow, turning pitch, India are expected to field an aggressive three-prong spin attack led by veteran Ravindra Jadeja and possibly Kuldeep Yadav, with left-arm spinner Manav Suthar vying with off-spin all-rounder Saransh Jain for the final spot. The pace department, missing speedster Jasprit Bumrah, will be spearheaded by Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna or Gurnoor Brar. However, the defining battle of the Test will likely hinge on how Indias batters handle Sri Lankas spinners, left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya and off-spinner Ramesh Mendis, who have turned Galle into an impenetrable fortress. For India, the likes of Gill, KL Rahul, Rishabh Pant, Yashasvi Jaiswal, and Devdutt Padikkal will need to show sharp technical application on a surface expected to offer natural wear and tear. A final outcome on the toss-up between Dhruv Jurel and Sarfaraz Khan will be keenly awaited too. Meanwhile, Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva faces his own tactical hurdles overseeing an inexperienced bowling group due to the island nation's sparse Test schedule over the past year. Theres a bit of inexperience in batting too, with Kusal Mendis and Pathum Nissanka unavailable. With both sides seeking crucial points to keep their WTC final hopes alive, the stage is set for a grueling, high-pressure contest along the Indian Ocean to commence. Only time will tell if India manages to pass the Sri Lankan examination or whether their past issues come back to haunt them yet again. When: Saturday, August 15, 10:00 AM IST Where: Galle International Cricket Stadium, Galle Where to watch: The match will be shown live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD channel as on TV. The live-stream will be available on Sony LIV app and website Squads Where to watch: The match will be shown live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD channel as on TV. The live-stream will be available on Sony LIV app and website Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka: Dhananjaya de Silva (c), Kamindu Mendis (vc), Lahiru Udara, Nishan Madushka, Dinesh Chandimal, Pasindu Sooriyabandara, Sonal Dinusha, Niroshan Dickwella (wk), Ramesh Mendis, Prabath Jayasuriya, Keshara Nuwantha, Milan Rathnayake, Asitha Fernando, Lahiru Kumara, Vishwa Fernando, and Dilshan Madushanka Article Source: IANS
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Tanzid Hasan Becomes First Bangladesh Batter To Hit Test Ton Against Australia
Tanzid Hasan Tamim: Playing in just his second Test match, young left-handed opener Tanzid Hasan Tamim etched his name into the record books by becoming the first Bangladesh batter to score a Test century on Australian soil on day two of the ongoing first Test on Friday. Tanzid, 25, produced a disciplined yet aggressive 101 off 190 balls to put the visitors firmly in the drivers seat. Tanzids landmark knock surpassed former opener Hannan Sarkars 23-year-old record of 76, which was previously the highest individual Test score by a Bangladeshi batter in Australia back in 2003 in Cairns. Building on the early momentum provided by speedster Hasan Mahmuds brilliant figures of 6-55 that skittled Australia out for a paltry 198 on day one, Tanzid anchored Bangladeshs response with remarkable composure against a formidable home attack featuring Australia skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon. Surviving an early scare when he was dropped on zero by Lyon in the second over, Tanzid showed elite temperament. He forged a solid 102-run second-wicket partnership with Mominul Haque (49) before skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto joined him to further stretch the visitors' lead. Building on the early momentum provided by speedster Hasan Mahmuds brilliant figures of 6-55 that skittled Australia out for a paltry 198 on day one, Tanzid anchored Bangladeshs response with remarkable composure against a formidable home attack featuring Australia skipper Pat Cummins, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood, and Nathan Lyon. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This is very special for me because this is the first time I am here. They came at me very differently and I was trying to play normal cricket shots and keep calm myself. I wasn't trying too much. I just played the ball, a grinning Tanzid told Fox Cricket at the tea break. Despite his departure, Tanzids historic effort has placed Bangladesh in a commanding position to press for a famous victory. Article Source: IANS
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Galle International Stadium: Cricketing Legacy from Muralitharans 800 to Indias 600th Test
When India begin their two-Test series against Sri Lanka on August 15, the opening match will be played at the historic Galle International Stadium , one of the world's most picturesque cricket venues. The Test also marks India's 600th Test match, adding another chapter to the rich history of this remarkable ground. India have not lost a Test series to Sri Lanka since 2008-09, while their last Test defeat against the island nation came in 2015. As they seek to extend that dominance, they return to a venue where cricket, history and nature blend like nowhere else. Originally known as The Esplanade, Galle began life as a racecourse before being officially converted into a cricket ground in 1927. It staged its first Test on June 3, 1998, against New Zealand. Situated barely 669 kilometres from the Equator, it is the closest Test venue to the Equator anywhere in the world. What makes Galle truly unique is its breathtaking setting. The 17th-century Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site originally built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch, towers over one side of the ground, while the Indian Ocean stretches along the other. The salty sea breeze, swaying palm trees and colonial walls create the impression of a postcard rather than a sporting arena. The sea is so close to the ground that strong ocean winds often influence batting and bowling conditions, especially during morning sessions. The stadium is also home to the Galle Cricket Club, whose pavilion, built in 1955 through funds raised by a public lottery, served as the original main pavilion. Few Test venues have witnessed many historic milestones: Shane Warne claimed his 500th Test wicket here in 2004. Muttiah Muralitharan completed 800 Test wickets, when he dismissed Pragyan Ojha in his farewell Test in 2010. Remarkably, 111 of his 800 wickets came at Galle. Virender Sehwag produced a magnificent 201 against Sri Lanka in 2008. Chris Gayle hammered 333 against Sri Lanka in 2010. Sanath Jayasuriya's explosive 253 against Pakistan in 2004 remains one of the venue's finest innings. In 2016, Rangana Herath recorded a hat-trick against Australia. He became the most successful left-arm spinner in Test history by surpassing Daniel Vettori. In 2025, Steve Smith completed 10,000 Test runs. On December 26, 2004, the Indian Ocean tsunami devastated Sri Lanka's southern coastline and the stadium was also almost destroyed, with buildings washed away. Even then the outfield was transformed into a relief camp for hundreds of survivors. For many, it seemed impossible that international cricket would ever return. Yet Galle refused to disappear. Reconstruction began in 2006, supported by the international cricket community. Fundraising efforts led by Ian Botham and Shane Warne, both of whom had memorable associations with the venue, played a significant role. The reconstruction, work was briefly stopped as one of the new buildings obstructed the view of the adjacent Dutch Fort, raising concerns over its UNESCO World Heritage status. The issue was resolved, construction resumed, and the stadium triumphantly returned to the Test calendar in 2008. Today, Galle stands as one of cricket's greatest symbols of resilience. Few pitches in world cricket deteriorate as dramatically as Galle.The tropical heat bakes the surface, humidity drains fast bowlers and, from the third day onwards, the pitch increasingly favours spin. Visiting teams often find survival more difficult than scoring runs. Spin bowlers account for nearly 70% of all wickets, making it one of the most spin-friendly grounds in world cricket. Before the tsunami, Sri Lanka had already turned Galle into a fortress, winning six of their first 11 Tests, with Muralitharan claiming 87 wickets during that period alone. Even after reconstruction, it has remained one of Sri Lanka's strongest home venues. Galle InternationalStadium facts First Test: June 1998 (Sri Lanka vs New Zealand) Capacity: Approximately 35,000 Ends: City End and Fort End Floodlights: No Tests hosted: 49 Also Read: Live Cricket Score Results: Sri Lanka 27 wins, visiting teams 15 wins, Draws 7
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Indias 600th Test: The Extraordinary Journey from Lords 1932 to Galle 2026
When India takes the field against Sri Lanka at Galle on August 15 in the opening Test of the two-match series, the result will matter, but the occasion itself will be historic. The match will be Indias 600th Test, a landmark reached by only two other Test-playing nations. India began their Test journey at Lords in 1932 against England, with CK Nayudu as the first captain. Ninety-four years later, Shubman Gill is set to lead India in the 600th. The journey between the two landmarks tells the story of the transformation of Indian cricket, from a struggling newcomer to one of the leading Test teams in the world. Of the 599 Tests India have played so far, they have won 186, lost 188, drawn 224 and tied one. The fact that victories and defeats are now almost level is itself a reflection of the enormous progress made over the decades. England have played 1,097 Tests, winning 405 and losing 336, while Australia have played 882, winning 426 and losing 235. West Indies, with 596 Tests, are also close to the 600 mark. However, unlike India, England and Australia, the future of Test cricket in the Caribbean remains a concern, with poor attendances at several venues. The six landmark Tests 1st Test 1932, Lords: C.K. Nayudu captained India in their debut Test against England. India lost by 158 runs, but a historic journey had begun. 100th Test 1967, Birmingham: Mansur Ali Khan Pataudi was captain when India played England. In their first 100 Tests, India won only 10 and lost 40. Polly Umrigar was the leading run-scorer with 3,631 runs, while Vinoo Mankad was the leading wicket-taker with 162 wickets. 200th Test 1982, Lahore: Sunil Gavaskar led India against Pakistan. During Tests 101 to 200, Gavaskar was the outstanding batsman, scoring 7,034 runs, while Bishan Bedi topped the bowling charts with 252 wickets. India won 25 of these 100 Tests and lost 32. 300th Test 1996, Ahmedabad: Sachin Tendulkar captained India against South Africa. In Tests 201 to 300, Mohammad Azharuddin scored 4,459 runs, the most by an Indian batsman, while Kapil Dev claimed 267 wickets. India won 21 and lost 26 Tests in this phase. 400th Test 2006, Kingston: Rahul Dravid was India's captain against West Indies. The statistics now began to show a decisive change. In Tests 301 to 400, Dravid accumulated a remarkable 8,741 runs, while Anil Kumble took 405 wickets. India won 32 Tests and lost 31the first of these landmark 100-Test periods in which victories outnumbered defeats. 500th Test 2016, Kanpur: Virat Kohli led India against New Zealand. India won by 197 runs. In Tests 401 to 500, Sachin Tendulkar remained India's leading run-scorer with 5,452 runs, while Ishant Sharma topped the wicket-taking list with 209 wickets. India won 42 and lost only 28 Tests, underlining the team's emergence as a dominant Test force. The extraordinary journey from 500 to 600 The period between India's 500th and 600th Tests has been arguably the most successful phase in the country's Test history. In the 501st to 599th Tests, India won 56 and lost only 31. Virat Kohli was the leading run-scorer during this period, with 5,958 runs, while Ravichandran Ashwin was the leading wicket-taker with 334 wickets. The statistics underline the remarkable consistency of India's batting and bowling during this era. The transformation was not merely statistical. India developed a genuinely world-class pace attack, led by Jasprit Bumrah and supported by Mohammed Shami and others, while Ashwin and Ravindra Jadeja carried forward India's formidable spin tradition. Under Kohli in particular, fitness, fast bowling and the ambition to win overseas became defining features of the team. The contrast with India's first 100 Tests could hardly be greater. From 10 victories and 40 defeats in the opening century of Tests, India moved to 56 wins against 31 defeats in the most recent 99. That is what makes the 600th Test more than a milestone. It represents the complete evolution of Indian Test cricket. From C.K. Nayudu at Lord's in 1932 to Shubman Gill at Galle in 2026, India's Test story has travelled through the eras of Umrigar, Mankad, Bedi, Gavaskar, Kapil, Azharuddin, Tendulkar, Dravid, Ganguly, Kumble, Kohli and Ashwin. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Galle will simply provide the stage for the latest chapter. The real achievement is the extraordinary journey that brought India there.
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Indias August 15 Test History: Can Shubman Gills Team Rewrite the Record?
When India walks out at Galle on August 15 for the first Test of their two-match series against Sri Lanka, the occasion will carry significance far beyond India's 600th Test match. The Test begins on Indias Independence Day, making August 15 an important date in Indian cricket history. While the country celebrates its freedom, Indias cricketers will be trying to create another chapter of sporting history. Here are some fascinating facts connected with India and Test cricket on August 15: 1. India has played Test cricket on August 15 only six times before The Galle Test will be only the seventh Test (all away Tests) involving India in which play takes place on August 15. Given the international cricket calendar, Test matches in August have traditionally been concentrated largely in England and Sri Lanka. India's previous six Tests in which August 15 featured were: In England: The Oval, 1936 The Oval, 1952 The Oval, 2014 Lord's, 2021 In Sri Lanka: Galle, 2001 Galle, 2015 India are now returning to Galle for another August 15 Test, 11 years after their previous such match there. 2. India's record in Tests featuring August 15 The record is not particularly encouraging. Both previous Tests played in Sri Lanka on August 15 were at Galle, and India lost both. In the 2015 Galle Test, August 15 was the final day of the match. In England, however, India's record has been better. In the four Tests there featuring August 15, India recorded one win, one draw and two defeats. That makes the question intriguing: Can Shubman Gill's team change India's record in the two previous August 15 Tests at Galle? 3. Only two previous India Tests began on August 15 There is an important distinction between playing on August 15 and beginning a Test on that date. Of India's six previous Tests in which August 15 featured, only two started on August 15. Both were at The Oval against England, and India lost both. The first was in 1936. England made 471 for eight declared, and India's batting collapsed dramatically. The last six Indian wickets fell for only 37 runs, leaving them 249 runs behind. India was forced to follow on and, despite a courageous effort from captain CK Nayudu, who battled through injury, England were left with a modest target of only 64. Wally Hammond produced a magnificent 217, his second successive Test century, with 30 boundaries, as England completed a nine-wicket victory. The second was 2014, again at The Oval. It was the fifth and final Test of the series. Joe Root played a superb 149 not out, laying the foundation for England's victory by an innings and 244 runs. India managed only 148 in their first innings, with MS Dhoni's 82 providing almost all the resistance. The second innings was even more painful. India's top six contributed only 40 runs between them and by the time the score reached 62, all six had returned to the pavilion. India was eventually dismissed for just 94. Thus, as Shubman Gill's side begins a Test on August 15 for only the third time in India's history, there is another record to rewrite: India have lost both previous Tests that started on August 15. 4. India's women have also played on August 15 The date has not been exclusive to India's men's team. India Women have also played two Tests in which August 15 featured. Both were in England. In 2002 at Taunton, the Test ended in a draw, while in 2014 at Wormsley, India Women won. The unforgettable Independence Day at Lord's Of all India's August 15 Test appearances, the 2021 Lord's Test perhaps remains the most evocative. August 15 that year was a Sunday, and on India's 75th Independence Day, the atmosphere around the Lords had a distinctly Indian flavour. From St John's Wood station towards the ground, the streets were bustling from early morning. Indian flags were being sold by hawkers, and the surroundings seemed, for a few hours, to resemble a part of an Indian city rather than north-west London. Inside Lord's, the stands were filled with Indian supporters celebrating Independence Day while following a fiercely contested Test. Slogans such as Bharat Mata Ki Jai, Ganpati Bappa Morya and Jeetega Bhai Jeetega echoed around the ground, while the Indian national anthem was sung several times. The cricket provided plenty of drama too. India's resistance included a determined innings from Cheteshwar Pujara, as India fought to stay in the contest. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Now India returns to August 15 Test cricketthis time at Galle and on an even more historic occasion. It will be India's 600th Test, it will begin on Independence Day, and it will revive memories of the two previous August 15 Tests at Galle that ended in defeat. For Shubman Gill and his team, therefore, this is more than just the opening Test of a series. It is an opportunity to turn a date associated with history into one associated with victory.
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England cricket team batter Harry Brook is currently serving an IPL ban. The star was banned from the Indian Premier League (IPL) for two years after opting out of IPL 2025 despite being picked by Delhi Capitals in the auction
APL 2026: Denish Das' 52 Powers Barpeta Braves To Four-wicket Win Over Guwahati Royals
Assam Cricket Association Stadium: Captain Denish Das led from the front with a half-century as Barpeta Braves chased down Guwahati Royals' 137-run target to register a four-wicket victory in the Assam Premier League (APL) 2026 at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium in Guwahati on Thursday. The win lifted Barpeta Braves to third place in the points table with eight points from seven matches, while Guwahati Royals slipped to second, also on 10 points, behind table-toppers Dibrugarh Warriors on net run rate. Put into bat, Guwahati Royals were given a steady start by Sanjay Kumar Singh and captain Rishav Das after Rohit Sen was dismissed early. Rishav anchored the innings with a composed 39 off 35 balls, while Nibir Deka contributed 33 off 34 deliveries. Jyoti Deka added 14 to take the Royals to 136/6 in their 20 overs. Barpeta Braves' bowlers kept the Royals under control by picking up wickets at regular intervals. Shubham Kumar Gupta was the pick of the attack with two wickets. In reply, Barpeta Braves made a positive start through Saurav Mousum Dihingia, who struck 23 off 18 balls, including two fours and two sixes. After his dismissal, Pranjal Paul played a patient knock of 24 off 35 deliveries before Denish Das took charge of the chase. The Barpeta skipper produced a captain's innings, hitting 52 off 41 balls and striking five fours. His assured knock kept the chase on course through the middle overs, while Abhilash Maurya added a valuable 19 off 16 balls. With the target within reach, Arun Sonar provided the finishing touch with an unbeaten seven off just two deliveries, including a six. Barpeta Braves reached 137/6 in 19.4 overs to complete a four-wicket victory and move into third place in the standings. Brief scores: Guwahati Royals 136/6 in 20 overs (Rishav Das 39, Nibir Deka 33, Sanjay Kumar Singh 17; Shubham Kumar Gupta 2/35) Brief scores: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Barpeta Braves beat Guwahati Royals by 4 wickets Article Source: IANS
Ali, Abbas share six as Pakistan warm up for England Tests
England opener Emilio Gay makes 12-ball duck and drops catch on tough opening day
Bangladesh Pacer Hasan Mahmud Rips Australia Apart, Makes History In 1st Test
It was a historic day for Bangladesh pacers Hasan Mahmud, who took the best-ever figures by a bowler from his country against Australia and Taskin Ahmed, who completed 300 international wickets, during the first Test against the 2023 World Test Champions at Darwin on Thursday.
UPT20 League: No Pressure Of Captaincy; We Are Built For Challenges, Says Meerut's Rinku Singh
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Meerut Mavericks captain Rinku Singh expressed sheer confidence in his squad's consistency and said they are expecting to perform well in the upcoming Season 4 of the UPT20 League. Our team has consistently performed brilliantly; we have played the finals for the last three seasons and won the title as well. There is no pressure of captaincy; we are built for challenges! My strategy is very straightforward: I tell every player in the team to give their 100% on the field without any pressure whenever they get a chance, Rinku Singh explained in the Captains' Meet, the official countdown to Uttar Pradeshs most prestigious cricketing event held in Lucknow on Thursday. League Chairman Dr. Sanjay Kapoor unveiled the blueprint and special initiatives for the upcoming season in the presence of the captains and representatives from all six franchise teams. With a massive prize pool of 3 crore at stake, the 34-match tournament will be broadcast live across 150 countries globally. The star-studded event featured the leadership of all six franchises on stage, including Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Lucknow Falcons), Rinku Singh (Meerut Mavericks), Sameer Rizvi (Kanpur Superstars), Madhav Kaushik (Noida Kings), Aryan Juyal (Gorakhpur Lions), and Bhupendra Yadav (representing Kashi Rudras). Setting a deeply collaborative tone, Chairman Dr. Sanjay Kapoor addressed the media with a heartfelt message. This league does not belong to one individual, but to all of us. The media is a part of our family. Until you are completely satisfied, neither the soundbites will stop nor the photographs. If there are any shortcomings, please forgive us; together we will make this festival a success, he stated. The tournament will kick off on August 14 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium with a glittering opening ceremony featuring live concerts by musical maestro Shankar Mahadevan and celebrated singer Jasmine Sandlas, complemented by synchronised drone and light shows. In a major, fan-first initiative aimed at providing relief to stadium-goers, Dr. Kapoor also announced that all food and beverages, including drinking water, will be sold strictly at Maximum Retail Price (MRP) inside the venues. Highlighting the transformative impact of the league and Rajeev Shukla's vision for unearthing grassroots talent, Dr. Kapoor shared a remarkable success story from the UPCA Speed Hunt. We conducted the Speed Hunt without charging any trial fees. Shubham Gautam, who bowled at speeds of 144-145 kmph, entered the auction with a base price of 2.5 lakh and was eventually sold for 21.5 lakh. This is the biggest success of this league, he proudly noted. The franchise captains also shared their insights and strategies ahead of the season. Lucknow Falcons captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar reflected on his team's past campaigns, stating, In the last two seasons, our team's performance was not up to expectations, and we missed out on the trophy. This time, we identified our weaknesses in the auction and have built a balanced team. While IPL experience will be useful, T20 cricket is a game of 11 players. We will step onto the field creating a positive atmosphere to clinch the title this time. We conducted the Speed Hunt without charging any trial fees. Shubham Gautam, who bowled at speeds of 144-145 kmph, entered the auction with a base price of 2.5 lakh and was eventually sold for 21.5 lakh. This is the biggest success of this league, he proudly noted. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Young captains Sameer Rizvi, Madhav Kaushik, and Aryan Juyal echoed a unified sentiment, emphasising that the UPT20 League has provided them with the ultimate platform to prove their talent. They highlighted the influx of new and energetic players into the squads this year, promising an incredibly thrilling competition. Article Source: IANS
Shashank Singh Steps Up Bowling Work, Eyes India Call-Up
Punjab Kings all-rounder Shashank Singh is intensifying his bowling practice and rebuilding his fielding confidence during the off-season camp, aiming for an India call-up by excelling in his all-rounder role in the upcoming domestic season.
APL 2026: Dipak's Four-fer, Ghadigaonkar's Fifty Seal 7-wicket Win For Charaideo Sunrisers
Assam Premier League: Charaideo Sunrisers dominated proceedings as they chased down 129 in commanding fashion to beat Jorhat Stallions by seven wickets in match number 25 of the Assam Premier League 2026 at the ACA Stadium, Guwahati, on Thursday. With this win, Sunrisers jump to fifth place on the points table. Skipper Sumit Ghadigaonkar anchored the chase with an unbeaten fifty, and a late assault from Reshabh Dipak finished things off in style for Sunrisers. In the first innings, Reshabh Dipak was the standout performer with the ball, picking up four wickets. Having opted to field first, Sunrisers struck early by removing Erik Roy cheaply, with Aditya Roy Chowdhury following soon after to have Stallions in a spot of bother at 25/2. Swarupam Purkayastha kept the scoreboard ticking as he top-scored with 28 off 24 balls before falling to Dipak. Rajveer Singh chipped in with 22, while Dyutimoy Nath provided a brief flourish with 19 off just 7 balls before both batters departed in a span of two overs as Jorhat Stallions lost momentum in the middle overs. The lower order carried Stallions to help them post a modest 128/8 in their 20 overs. Reshabh Dipak finished with excellent figures of 4/18, while Dibakar Johori picked up two wickets, and Himanshu Saraswat and Abhishek Kumar Sing chipped in with one apiece. In response, Charaideo Sunrisers made light work of the target as the openers put on a 58-run stand to lay the platform. Pradyun Saikia got things going with a brisk 25 off 20 balls before being bowled by Dyutimoy Nath. Hrishikesh Tamuli and Kalam Reja both fell cheaply in the middle overs too, giving Stallions a glimmer of hope. However, Ghadigaonkar held firm throughout, remaining unbeaten on 56 off 44 balls with five fours and two sixes. Dipak then capped off an excellent bowling performance by producing a stunning late cameo, smashing an unbeaten 34 off just 11 balls with four sixes to lift Charaideo Sunrisers to 130/3 in 14.3 overs, sealing a comprehensive seven-wicket win. Brief scores: Jorhat Stallions 128/8 in 20 overs (Swarupam Purkayastha 28, Rajveer Singh 22; Reshabh Dipak 4/18, Dibakar Johori 2/24). Brief scores: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Charaideo Sunrisers beat Jorhat Stallions by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Indian Team Sent Grim Message On Ravindra Jadeja And The Need To Look At Future
Former India cricketer Murali Kartik believes the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka will be crucial for India's spin attack, with Ravindra Jadeja in the wilight of his career
Chasing Cricket Nirvana - Henriques Sets Sights On Guiding Portugal To T20 WC
T20 World Cup: Former Australia all-rounder Moises Henriques has described helping his birth nation Portugal qualify for their maiden mens T20 World Cup as the ultimate nirvana at the twilight of his playing career. Henriques, 39, represented Australia in four Tests, 16 ODIs, and 24 T20Is between 2009 and 2021. After retiring from Australian cricket, he switched allegiances to Portugal. He will captain the side at a European sub-regional qualifying tournament starting in Finland on Friday. Portugal, ranked 37th globally, are placed in Group B alongside the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, and Israel. Inspired by Italys recent qualification for their debut T20 World Cup, Henriques believes Portugal can follow a similar pathway. Obviously, the ideal, the nirvana, would be to replicate what Italy have done. Whether that's realistic for this World Cup, or the following, I don't know. We'll only be able to tell in a couple of games. I'm sure there's a lot of opposition that feel that they might be able to do something similar, Henriques told the BBC Stumped podcast on Thursday. Born in Funchal on the island of Madeira, Henriques moved to Sydney with his family when he was two. Reflecting on his childhood, he shared how the sport helped him integrate into Australian culture. Moises isn't the most common name going around in an Australian school, especially at that time. I had a few issues at school early on. I didn't speak English that well. Cricket gave me that little bit of confidence I probably needed as a kid to feel a part of something. Having reconnected with his roots during a visit to Madeira last year, Henriques feels a deep emotional connection to his new assignment. When I played for Australia, my family also felt I was representing them as well. I'm representing the motherland, so to speak, and it's going to feel somewhat similar. Hopefully we can make a positive impact trying to grow the sport in Portugal and probably Europe more broadly as well. Henriques admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the standard of his new squad, which includes former South Africa A batter Cameron Shekleton and former New Zealand Under-19 captain Craig Cachopa. I was quietly and pleasantly surprised with the quality of cricketers that we've got in the team. There's a lot of high-level cricketers going around, which I probably wasn't expecting a few years ago when I first started entertaining the thought of playing. Henriques admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the standard of his new squad, which includes former South Africa A batter Cameron Shekleton and former New Zealand Under-19 captain Craig Cachopa. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'm coming out of back surgery about five months ago, so the biggest challenge bowling will be landing on a synthetic wicket after coming off a full run-up. Obviously we train a lot indoors on synthetic wickets, so hopefully I can make the adjustment, concluded Henriques. Article Source: IANS
Stuart Broad Reveals The One Ravindra Jadeja Habit That Annoyed Him
Ravindra Jadeja will be back in action for the Indian cricket team in the two-Test series against Sri Lanka
Vinay Kumar named Karnataka senior men's team head coach
Former India fast bowler R Vinay Kumar has been appointed as the head coach of the Karnataka senior men's cricket team for the 2026-27 domestic season, bringing his extensive experience as a player and captain to the role.
DPL 2026: Shivam Stars As Outer Delhi Warriors Edge West Delhi Lions By Five Wickets
Outer Delhi Warriors: Off-spin bowling all-rounder Shivam Sharma produced an impressive all-round display as Outer Delhi Warriors registered a five-wicket victory over West Delhi Lions in the 2026 Delhi Premier League (DPL) match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium here on Thursday. Electing to bat, defending champions West Delhi Lions were bundled out for 178 in 19.4 overs, as they were hampered by frequent dismissals that prevented them from building substantial middle-order partnerships. The Lions were tottering at 119/7 before skipper Ayush Doseja took charge of the innings. Doseja hit a crucial 59 off 33 balls, laced with six fours and two sixes, and found support in Ajay Rana, who smashed a quickfire 16-ball 27, studded with a four and three sixes, to stitch a valuable 39-run stand for the eighth wicket. Senior left-handed batter Nitish Rana had earlier set a brisk tempo with a fiery 35 off 17 deliveries, laced with two fours and four sixes. For the Warriors, Shivam was the standout performer, returning figures of 3-25 in his four overs. Left-arm spinner Harsh Tyagi provided effective control at the other end by taking 2-17 in his four overs. The Lions were tottering at 119/7 before skipper Ayush Doseja took charge of the innings. Doseja hit a crucial 59 off 33 balls, laced with six fours and two sixes, and found support in Ajay Rana, who smashed a quickfire 16-ball 27, studded with a four and three sixes, to stitch a valuable 39-run stand for the eighth wicket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Akshay Saini then anchored the chase with a composed 42 off 32 balls alongside Mohit Panwar (retired hurt on 31) to keep the required rate within reach. Despite Sainis dismissal causing a late flutter, Shivam (13 not out) and Tyagi (10 not out) re-applied themselves to hold their nerves in the closing stages and steer the Warriors home without further hiccups and be in second spot in the points table, behind table toppers Central Delhi Kings. Article Source: IANS
Former India Seamer Vinay Kumar Appointed Karnataka Senior Mens Head Coach
Karnataka State Cricket Association: Former India right-arm pacer Vinay Kumar has been appointed as head coach of the Karnataka senior mens team for the upcoming 2026/27 domestic season, said the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) on Thursday. Vinay, 42, takes over the reins from Yere Goud, who joined the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru as a batting coach. Ex-Karnataka batter Deepak Chougule joins his support staff as the fielding coach. This will mark Vinays maiden stint as Karnatakas head coach. He previously coached the Hubli Tigers in the Maharaja T20 Trophy and served as bowling coach for MI Emirates in the ILT20. Following his retirement from all formats in 2021, Vinay also worked as a talent scout for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and commentator for Star Sports Kannada. Vinay represented India in one Test, 31 ODIs, and nine T20Is. He was also part of IPL-winning campaigns with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014 and Mumbai Indians in 2015 and 2017. He remains the highest wicket-taker among seamers in Ranji Trophy history with 442 wickets and stands in the fourth spot on the all-time list in Indias premier red-ball tournament. This will mark Vinays maiden stint as Karnatakas head coach. He previously coached the Hubli Tigers in the Maharaja T20 Trophy and served as bowling coach for MI Emirates in the ILT20. Following his retirement from all formats in 2021, Vinay also worked as a talent scout for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and commentator for Star Sports Kannada. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Karnataka, who finished as Ranji Trophy runners-up in the last domestic season, are set to kick off their 2026/27 campaign against Andhra on October 11. Former Karnataka and Vidarbha batter Ganesh Satish has been appointed as U23 mens coach, while former player Kunal Kapoor, who was working with the U16s for the past few years, is now U19 mens coach, and SN Ameet will serve as senior womens and U23 head coach. Article Source: IANS
Sri Lankan Coach Dies In Hospital After Clash With Players During Match
A 62-year-old coach who once mentored former Sri Lanka cricket captain Kusal Mendis during his school days has died following an altercation with players during a cricket match in Colombo
Meenakshi Lekhi Appointed Chairperson Of Divyang Cricket Control Board Of India
The Divyang Cricket Control Board: Former Union Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi has taken on a new responsibility as the Chairperson of the Divyang Cricket Control Board of India (DCCBI), the organisation working for and promoting the Indian Divyang Cricket Team and Indian Wheelchair Cricket Team. The announcement of her appointment was made during the grand Divyang Cricket Award Ceremony held in Agra. Addressing the gathering of Divyang cricket players, officials and organisers, Meenakshi Lekhi, a former Member of Parliament, senior social worker, and renowned Supreme Court advocate, said she would discharge this responsibility with complete dedication, sincerity and commitment and would work towards taking Divyang cricket to greater heights at both the national and international levels. Speaking to the players, sge said, 'We should draw inspiration from the life of Lord Shri Ram, who, despite being a prince, followed the wishes of his parents and accepted exile. She emphasised that ones karma is the most important aspect of life and said, Keep performing your duties with honesty and dedication; the path will continue to open before you. She further said the hard work, determination and talent of Divyang athletes are a matter of pride for the nation. Providing Divyang players with not only opportunities on the sporting field but also dignity, recognition and a better future is a collective responsibility. Welcoming Meenakshi Lekhi to her new role, Mukesh Kanchan, President, Divyang Cricket Control Board of India, said, The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India has found a mother in you. The Board was in great need of a mother who could guide her children, teach them to move forward, encourage them to work hard, and inspire them to achieve their goals. We are confident that under your guidance, Divyang cricket will reach new heights. Dr. Bhagwan Talware, President of the Wheelchair Unit, expressed his gratitude for Lekhi joining the Board as Chairperson. He said that her vast experience, leadership abilities, and commitment to social causes would provide new direction and strength to Divyang cricket in India. The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India is working continuously to promote Divyang cricket across the country and expand international cricket opportunities for players. As part of its upcoming international initiatives, the Board is moving forward with plans to organise a Tri-Nation Divyang Cricket Series in Mumbai featuring India, Sri Lanka and Nepal. The proposed series will provide players from all three countries an important international platform to showcase their talent, compete at a higher level and strengthen the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship through cricket. The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India is working continuously to promote Divyang cricket across the country and expand international cricket opportunities for players. As part of its upcoming international initiatives, the Board is moving forward with plans to organise a Tri-Nation Divyang Cricket Series in Mumbai featuring India, Sri Lanka and Nepal. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India remains committed to providing Divyang athletes with respect, opportunities, professional platforms, and pathways to national and international excellence through cricket. Article Source: IANS
Gautam Gambhir, Shubman Gill Get Clear Message On Sarfaraz Khan As Debate Of India XI Intensifies
After spending most of the last two years outside the national team, Sarfaraz Khan received a call-up for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka after Sai Sudharsan failed to regain fitness in time
Sandeep Warrierto turn out for Chhattisgarh this domestic season
Vinay Kumar appointed Karnataka head coach
Vinay is still the leading wicket-taker among seamers in the Ranji Trophy with 442 strikes
Coach's Death Highlights Player Discipline Concerns
A 62-year-old cricket coach, Sumith Fernando, who mentored Kusal Mendis, died in Colombo following an altercation with two school players over drinking water during a match. A 17-year-old player has been arrested and placed under child probation custody.
WV Raman Backs Sarfaraz To Start Over Jurel For Indias Galle Test Against Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Cricket XI: Former India batter WV Raman said he would prefer Sarfaraz Khan over Dhruv Jurel in the sides playing eleven for the first Test against Sri Lanka, starting in Galle on Saturday, citing the visitors' need for a frontline batter in the middle order who can attack the hosts' spin bowling line-up. India must fill two vacant batting slots from a pool of three players in Devdutt Padikkal, Jurel and Sarfaraz as they open their series against Sri Lanka. With Padikkal expected to seal the number three spot in B Sai Sudharsans absence, the remaining contest is between Jurel and Sarfaraz. I would tend to think in a Test match, you will have to go for the specialist. Dhruv Jurel has done well as a wicketkeeper-batter. He gets some runs. But this man has also done well. The young boy, Sarfaraz Khan. So, I think if you have picked him in the side as a specialist batter for Test cricket, I would rather tend to go with him. But he is also a very good player of spin. He can be an attacking option. The other thing that he will bring to the table is that he is also a good close-in catcher, and that is perhaps something that you would need, especially if Sri Lanka dishes out a turning track, Raman told IANS in an exclusive conversation, facilitated by Sony Sports Network, on Thursday. Both Jurel and Sarfaraz made their Test debut against England at Rajkot in February 2024, and their journeys have been very different since. Jurel has been a regular in the set-up as a wicketkeeping back-up to Rishabh Pant, while also playing as a specialist batter occasionally. A much-fitter Sarfaraz, meanwhile, was called up as a replacement for the injured Sudharsan, thus marking his return to the side after being unused in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Raman also backed Padikkal to bat at number three, after scoring a sparkling unbeaten 142 from that position in a three-day warm-up against Sri Lanka Cricket XI at the NCC Ground in Colombo. It will be very tempting to try and see other options as well. But I think Padikkal deserves to play, especially when you consider the fact that he is a top-order batter. He is rated as a very good red-ball cricketer and a left-hander at three will come in handy - that's a no-brainer at all. He has got the temperament. He has churned out enough runs in all formats. I think just to put it in one line, he has done enough to warrant a place in the eleven, he added. Shubman Gill-led India are under pressure to win both Tests in the series to stay in contention for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, where they are in the fifth spot in the standings, and are expected to finalise their batting combination in the coming days. He is rated as a very good red-ball cricketer and a left-hander at three will come in handy - that's a no-brainer at all. He has got the temperament. He has churned out enough runs in all formats. I think just to put it in one line, he has done enough to warrant a place in the eleven, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Watch Sri Lanka vs. India 1st Test Day 1 on August 15, 2026, from 10 AM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD & Sony LIV. Article Source: IANS
Gurkeerat Singh Mann: Punjab Kings spinner Harpreet Brar has opened up about the winding road that eventually led him to the IPL, recalling how he once had to choose between pursuing cricket and joining the Punjab Police, while seven years of repeated selection setbacks tested his patience. Brar, who ultimately broke through after moving to Mohali and impressing in the domestic circuit, says the journey has strengthened his belief that opportunities arrive when their time comes. Brar was 21 and still in college in 2018 when his father, who was in the police force, encouraged him to consider following a similar career path. Instead, the youngster asked for one more year to pursue cricket. Definitely, I think of it many a time. In 2018, when I was in college, my father, who was in the police force, told me that his friends sons were in the police and that I should try too. After a lot of thinking, I told my father that I wanted to play cricket for a year, Brar told IANS in an exclusive interaction. That decision altered the course of his life. Brar got an opportunity at the district level, progressed to the state setup, and eventually established himself as a professional cricketer. At that time, I was 21 years old. I got a chance to play for the district. I did well in the district. Then I did well at the state level. That's how I got selected. I say that this is the turning point of my life, he said. Brar acknowledges that the alternative path could also have brought happiness, but believes the decision to continue with cricket remains the defining choice of his life. If I had been in the police force today, obviously, I would have liked that life, and its not like this life isnt good because I hadnt experienced a cricketers life either. But this was the turning point of my life, he added. The decision to pursue cricket did not immediately lead to success. Brar spent seven years playing association cricket and repeatedly appearing in selection matches without making the cut. Over time, however, repeated rejection began to affect him differently. When someone is rejected constantly, he loses the fear of rejection. The fear of rejection wont disturb him when hes rejected; hell be disturbed when hes selected because itll be a new feeling, a new experience, he mentioned. Brar said that while the initial rejections hurt, they eventually became part of the routine. What kept him going was not simply the hope of selection, but the enjoyment he found in playing the game. When I played for the association for 7 years, I used to play selection matches, but I wasn't selected. At first, it felt different, but then it became common. I wasn't selected every year. But I used to enjoy playing cricket. I had an interest, and it was fun to perform. It's not that I didn't perform in those 7 years. I did perform, but the circumstances were different, Brar recalled. A major breakthrough came when Brar encountered former India and IPL cricketer Gurkeerat Singh Mann during a tournament. Mann's suggestion that Brar try for Mohali would prove decisive. The district I used to play in was minor. The performance there didn't count. Then I met Gurkeerat Singh Mann paaji in a tournament. He saw my game and asked me where I lived. I told him that I lived in Mohali. Then he told me to try for Mohali, Brar said. Brar regards that move as another turning point in a career that has been shaped by a series of seemingly small but significant decisions. The turning point in my career was coming to Mohali because of Mann paaji. He has played for India and also in the IPL for 10-11 years. So that was a turning point. As I said, sometimes you get what is written in your fate, he opined. Brar's connection with cricket goes back much further. As an 11-year-old, he happened to see a flyer for a cricket academy in the market, an encounter that eventually set him on the path towards the professional game. He no longer has the physical flyer, but the idea of tracing an alternate life does not appeal to him. I dont have that flyer; I was too young, just 11 years old. I did not have a phone back then either. And its not like I can comment on what I would have done had I not been a cricketer. Instead, Brar places his journey in the context of destiny and timing. I dont believe in that. I believe that what is written in a person's destiny will definitely reach him. Yes, sometimes it can take some time. But if one is destined to reach there, he will sometime or the other. Behind that journey, Brar credits his parents, particularly his mother, whose efforts included travelling with him in the early hours and helping him navigate the practical difficulties of pursuing cricket. Brar, however, was keen to place his own story within the larger sacrifices made by parents supporting young athletes. It's not just my mother. There are a lot of mothers out there who want their kids to be successful. It's every mother's dream to have her son at her feet. Whatever I want to do, my mother will do it for my son. My mother did the same. Obviously, I am very thankful to her. I think her hard work has helped me get to where I am today. For Brar, his progress cannot be separated from his family's support and prayers. Sometimes I don't even believe that it wasn't because of me. But it was my mother's prayers that shaped my destiny this way. I am very thankful to her. I am blessed to have such thoughtful and supportive parents. I can only say this much. Everyone's parents are the same. I am just sharing my experience. Despite already establishing himself in the IPL, Brar insists he does not consider his journey complete. His conversation with childhood hero Yuvraj Singh has only reinforced the ambition that remains ahead of him. I met Yuvraj paaji 3 days ago only, when I was practising. There are no questions that I havent asked him yet. I have asked him so many questions. Whatever I feel like, I ask him. Asked if Yuvraj were to ask whether Brar has achieved everything he set out to achieve, the answer would be unequivocal. If he asks me whether I have achieved everything or not, Ill say, No, I havent. I want to play Test cricket for my country. I met Yuvraj paaji 3 days ago only, when I was practising. There are no questions that I havent asked him yet. I have asked him so many questions. Whatever I feel like, I ask him. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I have already had a conversation with him about this. I will work hard and have a great season to achieve my dream and my goal as soon as possible, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Had Certain Expectations In IPL 2026; It Just Didn't Click, Admits Nehal Wadhera
The Punjab Kings: The Punjab Kings' off-season camp in New Chandigarh has been a stretch of open net sessions and practice games, though rain has made an appearance. Somewhere in the middle of all the games played by Mother Nature, Nehal Wadhera is working his way back from a season he is in no hurry to forget. A year ago, Wadhera was one of the stories of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 -- a young left-hander finishing games for Punjab Kings, as seen from his unbeaten 33 in the rain-hit group stage clash against Royal Challengers Bengaluru. That season saw him amass 369 runs in 16 games, though he was scratchy in the final, as RCB won the title in Ahmedabad. But this year told a different story for Wadhera the easy-on-the-eye timing and rhythm deserted him, as he made only 65 runs in eight games. Ask him about it now, months after he faced the last ball in IPL 2026, and he doesn't reach for the usual language players use to soften a bad season. I mean, I just couldn't click this year. So, I wouldn't say that I definitely worked on my game before the IPL, and I've had certain expectations out of me. But, yes, it didn't click - so it didn't click. But I definitely learned a lot of things out of it, and I'm working on it now. So, every player goes through such patches in their career. This season was one of those times when I couldn't do well, Wadhera said in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Thursday. There's no attempt to make it sound better than it was. It didn't click, and Wadhera has swiftly moved to having a better time with PBKS next year. What stands out is how little interest he has in complaining about the runs that didn't come off his willow or the games he watched from the dugout. So, I'm not someone who complains that I couldn't do something or anything like that. But, yes, I'm happy that I could learn something from it like how to be consistent, take the game forward, and how to win games when the team is certainly not in a good position. I tried to grab as much as I could from this season - all those games where I couldn't do well and also the games I didn't play. I used to just make notes out of it, and be mindful that if I was playing what I would have done. Sometimes no matter how hard you try, it just doesn't click. So, it was just one of those seasons. But, yes, I'm in a good headspace now, he said. That good headspace, Wadhera says, comes through the conversations he kept having with skipper Shreyas Iyer, now Indias T20I skipper, and head coach Ricky Ponting, even as PBKS' season nosedived in the second half. Shreyas has been doing really well for the past two-three IPL seasons. He deserves to be where he is today. The chats we had were always really positive. I mean, I did not do well, and yes, I did not deserve to be playing all those games. I did get my chances and could not grab them. So, I don't have any regrets that I did not play much. I did not complain, nothing of that sort. Rather, I was having some conversations with Shreyas and Ricky on how I could improve. What did they think I was lacking in or anything like that? But the same responses came from them, which were the things going on in my mind - that sometimes it just doesn't click no matter how hard you try. In practice also, when I was batting, I was batting really well. Even Ricky was really happy with the way I was batting. But it was the same response from him -that it just doesn't click sometimes. I was like, Okay, I'm fine with it. I'm trying my best, putting my best foot forward and giving my 100 percent. If it's still not working, it's fine. But still, if there's something I can learn out of it, I did, and I was practising even harder in the nets. But it's fine. I mean, no complaints, no regrets. I was giving my best, but it didn't happen. At the ongoing off-season camp, where the overall mood has been positive, the focus of Wadhera and others like Prabhsimran Singh and Shashank Singh has been on honing their strengths and the areas that need work, keeping in mind not just IPL 2027, but also the upcoming domestic season, where the left-hander will turn out for Himachal Pradesh. The work of turning a lean season into a better one is happening in a fairly unglamorous fashion for Wadhera under the eyes of assistant bowling coach Trevor Gonsalves, who keeps the rest of the PBKS coaching staff informed about day-to-day proceedings. Whenever we are having our sessions, he is always standing there and recording us. Hes always showing us our videos to see where we can improve, and that conversation is always going on. He also tries to dig in and bring out conversations from us about where we feel that we can improve our game. Then, we end up being in such a place that we meet at a centre point that says, Yes, this is where you need to improve. This is where your strengths are. These camps help us because we have such quality bowlers - all the cream of Punjab bowlers are collected, and they are also being tested for IPL. So, they also bring their best game forward while they are bowling to us, and its a really good challenge. We also sometimes play practice games, but it's raining here, and we are not able to play that right now, but we are having some open net sessions. It's fun as Trevor is just sharing his experiences with us and we're really happy working with him. The bigger picture, for Wadhera, who was briefly in India A set-up, is that none of this is optional extra effort on his part - it's PBKS choosing not to leave players to fend for themselves between seasons. Obviously, when we get a call for the camp, we as players get really excited. But it's a really great initiative by Punjab Kings because they don't want players to be left to practice on their own. They're also keen to improve every player's game. That's why they constantly have their camps because they want to see where the player is improving his game, where he can fit into the eleven and can win games for the team. In the many camps they conduct, it's not something that, if we feel that we need to work on this, we need certain two or three hours of batting - they're always there, and we don't have a time limit, so it's really good. Also, we are practising with the best bowlers out there, and we are more than happy when we get those calls for the camp. We are really excited because we know that Punjab Kings are there and they are going to provide us with everything. That's why they constantly have their camps because they want to see where the player is improving his game, where he can fit into the eleven and can win games for the team. In the many camps they conduct, it's not something that, if we feel that we need to work on this, we need certain two or three hours of batting - they're always there, and we don't have a time limit, so it's really good. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Wadhera doesnt offer any grand promise about whether IPL 2027 will mirror his breakout 2025 or his tough 2026 season. Instead, he is honest in talking about his difficult season, the support he got from PBKS, and renewing his belief in coming good whenever the next IPL comes. I've practised well, and I know if I'm brought into this similar situation again, I'll end up doing well, he signed off. Article Source: IANS
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings spinner Harpreet Brar has played down the talk surrounding his on-field exchanges with Virat Kohli, insisting there is no rivalry between the two and that a bowler's focus should remain firmly on the job at hand, regardless of who is batting at the other end. Brar, who has previously dismissed Kohli in the Indian Premier League (IPL), said the intensity seen between the two players is part of the competitive nature of franchise cricket and not a personal contest. For Brar, the respect for Kohli remains unchanged even when the two find themselves on opposite sides in an IPL game. It's not like that. It's good for the team. Theres nothing like a rivalry. Its all a social media gimmick which starts there and dies there. I play for PBKS, he plays for RCB. I have only played franchise cricket with him. We both want to do good for the team, Brar told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Thursday. Brar believes Kohli's enduring competitiveness is one of the qualities that has made him such a significant figure in Indian cricket. The spinner has also viewed that intensity as something younger players can learn from. He has played so many matches, and he plays the same way as he did when he was 18. His aggression on the ground is still the same. We have also learnt these things from him, he said. According to Brar, respect does not disappear simply because the two are competing. But it's not like that. He is a legend of this game. He is one of the legends. Respect is the same for him on and off the field. At the same time, Brar believes competitive cricket leaves little room for sentiment once the game begins. The objective, he said, is to perform for one's own side, irrespective of personal relationships. But we do our job on the field. And we have learnt it from him only. He will never give an excuse saying, He is my friend, so I wont hit him for a four or six. It's not like that. It's not possible. He wants to do well for his team; its all jokes and fun. We have always learnt from him, and he is a great example for the future youngsters as to how cricket should be played, he added. Brar's own history with Kohli adds another layer to their encounters. The PBKS spinner famously dismissed the former RCB captain in the same spell in which he also removed Glenn Maxwell and AB de Villiers. But Brar said the identity of the batter does not change his responsibility as a bowler. You should always have that current in you as a bowler; it doesnt matter if its Virat Kohli batting in front of you or a youngster. As a bowler, my duty is to take his wicket or bowl a good over for my team. That should be the motto. For him, even the intimidating aura associated with Kohli should have no bearing on a bowler's mindset. Someone giving a death stare should not bother a bowler. Brar also dismissed the idea that Kohli is necessarily staring directly at him during such moments, pointing instead to the way television cameras capture interactions on the field. I have never seen him staring at me. The camera angles are like this. When we are on the ground. It feels like they are staring at me, but theyre not. You can only hear the conversation around the stump mic. You can't hear anything else. But it's not like that, as far as staring is concerned. Brar pointed out that intense reactions from captains and players are a routine part of competitive cricket, though Kohli's profile naturally means his expressions attract greater attention. I have never seen him staring at me. The camera angles are like this. When we are on the ground. It feels like they are staring at me, but theyre not. You can only hear the conversation around the stump mic. You can't hear anything else. But it's not like that, as far as staring is concerned. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The spinner offered one final reminder that what viewers interpret from a television broadcast may not necessarily reflect what is happening between players. He doesn't need to be staring at me; he could be staring at someone else too, he concluded on a fun note. Article Source: IANS
Smith's honest DRS admission after lucky escape
Australia's top-scorer Steve Smith admitted he believed he nicked the ball during a DRS review on day one of the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin, despite the not-out decision being upheld. His crucial innings of 71 helped Australia reach 198, but Bangladesh finished the day strongly at 96 for one, trailing by 102 runs.
SL vs IND Tests | Role reversal Kirsten seeks to use India experience in Sri Lanka challenge
Sri Lanka head coach Kirsten, who coached the Men in Blue to victory in the 2011 World Cup, will be plotting Indias downfall when the two-match Test series begins at Galle on Saturday
Will India Travel to Bangladesh? BCCI Source Reveals Latest Position
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is awaiting formal approval from the Indian government for the proposed tour of the Indian men's team to Bangladesh, a source in the BCCI said
Morkel reveals KL Rahul's big role in Sri Lanka Test
India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has emphasised the crucial role wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul will play in the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka, citing his experience and ability to guide younger players.
R Ashwin Calls Ireland's Series Win Over India As Huge Positive. Here's Why
Ravichandran Ashwin has welcomed Ireland's recent 2-0 series victory over India, pointing to the result and the nature of the pitches as encouraging signs for cricket's global expansion.
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings batter Pyla Avinash believes his fearless approach can make him a match-winner in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the young Andhra cricketer looks to build on the domestic performances that earned him his maiden opportunity in the league. Picked by PBKS for Rs. 30 lakh after a standout run in the Andhra Premier League, Avinash says he wants to retain his attacking instinct while learning to temper it with greater responsibility in the high-pressure environment of the IPL. Avinash's rise to the Punjab Kings setup came after three consistent seasons in the Andhra Premier League, culminating in a stunning unbeaten 105 off 58 balls, an innings that included 11 sixes. Yet, despite that performance, he said an IPL call-up was not something he had begun planning for. After scoring that 100, I never thought that I'd be in the IPL setup because it was just all instincts. I wasn't thinking long enough. I mean, okay, I'm just going match by match and not thinking about the result of the IPL. So, yeah, it was all disbelief until I went to the trials. I did well in the trials, in the Punjab trials. So, I got shortlisted at the start, and I felt very happy for that. And later, after they picked me, I was really happy, and I was literally shocked. So, yeah, it's a different kind of feeling which I can't explain, Avinash told IANS in an exclusive interaction. PBKS' decision to invest in Avinash came when he was still largely outside the national spotlight. For the youngster, being identified by the franchise at that stage was a major moment in his career. First of all, I'm very lucky to be picked by the Punjab Kings. Then, I was doing really well in the Andhra Premier League. That was my third season. I was doing consistently well in all three seasons, where I scored a century when they picked me, the batter said. The IPL call-up brought both excitement and the awareness that the level of expectation would change. I can say both, where expectations are also higher, and responsibility comes from it. So it brought both. The franchise, however, ensured that the transition did not become overwhelming for a player entering the IPL environment for the first time. Avinash said the PBKS management and coaching staff helped him settle into the surroundings. PBKS owners kept me in a very good space in Punjab. To be honest, I was never kept aside, nor were they ever treated me in such a way. But they were really good to me. They were very kind to me in all scenarios. Our head coach, our owners, and all the staff looked after me very well because it was my inaugural season for the IPL. So, for me, there's a lot of pressure coming to the IPL setup because I don't know how the setup will be, how strong or how things will be here with our own people, with all the legends surrounding you. There are so many instances where they kept me really good, really comfortable in all the situations while on and off the field as well, he added. The innings that accelerated Avinash's journey came with an extraordinary display of power-hitting. During his unbeaten 105, he struck five sixes in an over, a sequence that showcased the natural aggression that has become a defining part of his batting. It was just instinct. I hit five sixes in that over where, on the second ball, two runs came. There's no chance for me to hit six sixes, Avinash said of the knock. The reference to six sixes inevitably brings Yuvraj Singh's famous feat into the conversation, but Avinash has no hesitation in admitting that achieving the same landmark remains an ambition. Obviously, it's a dream for anyone to hit six sixes in an over in any format or at any time of the game. I'm looking forward to having one in my bag. Avinash's challenge in the IPL is not to abandon the aggression that brought him this far, but to understand when to unleash it. The batter said he has spent the last two years observing established players and studying how they assess bowlers and situations. The last two years, I've been developing, you know, looking after so many players in the team. How they take on the bowlers, in what situation, at what point in time. I'm constantly learning from sitting in the dugout, though I didn't get any chance. But I still feel fearless is my thing, which I don't want to stop. But yeah, I can't be more reckless about it. So, I want to be more responsible and fearless, he expressed. For Avinash, that mindset does not depend on whether he is facing the first ball of an innings or the final delivery. His emphasis is on clarity and trusting the instincts developed through repetition. I'll have a clear mind while batting, even if it is the first ball or the last ball. I have a clear mind. So, it's just the instinct we get from practising a lot and executing well in the match. So, yeah, it's just all instinct, and it's just a clear mind and doing what you are doing since all your life, he mentioned. While Avinash has been identified primarily for his aggressive batting, he does not want his ambitions to end with simply becoming a power-hitter. He aims to be the player who can alter the course of a match when his team is under pressure. I can change the, you know, course of the game really well. Even if the team is in a losing situation, I can step up then because I've done those things so many times. So, I can describe it like that. If I am there in the race, the match is ours. I think of myself as a match winner, Avinash noted. That confidence is being shaped by an IPL environment in which Avinash has had the opportunity to observe some of the game's most experienced figures. One of those figures is Ricky Ponting, whom Avinash grew up watching as a batter before eventually finding himself working under him as a coach. The transition from watching the Australian great on television to discussing the game with him has been one of the more surreal aspects of his early IPL journey. His attitude and, you know, commitment towards the game really surprised me. In his whole career, he played really good innings. I used to watch him bat. And after I was picked, obviously Ricky Ponting is the head coach, and I felt it was unreal. So, there are times I used to sit and talk to him about the game, about the mindset and, you know, all the technical aspects. I am really happy that I got a chance to work with him the last two years. And about whether he has told me something about my batting, yeah, 100%. He did some technical changes and, you know, he didn't tell me so many big, big things. But he made small, small changes which really helped me in the way I am batting right now, Avinash said of working under Ponting. Behind Avinash's rapid rise is a family influence that predates the IPL, with his elder brother playing a central role in introducing him to the sport and supporting his development. Avinash believes that without his brother's own cricket journey, he may never have developed the vision or received the same support to pursue the game. Behind Avinash's rapid rise is a family influence that predates the IPL, with his elder brother playing a central role in introducing him to the sport and supporting his development. Also Read: Live Cricket Score From an Andhra Premier League hundred that he never expected to lead to the IPL, to learning under Ponting and preparing to compete alongside established names, Avinash's journey is now entering a new phase. And while the expectations have risen with his arrival in the IPL, his ambition remains rooted in the same instinctive, attacking cricket that brought him here. Article Source: IANS
UPT20: 'Team Has Come Together Well', Says Kashi Rudras Captain Karan Sharma Ahead Of Season Opener
Ekana Cricket Stadium: Two-time champions Kashi Rudras captain Karan Sharma believes the time spent together during the practice camp has helped build the connection within the squad and given the players a strong base as they begin their title defence against Meerut Mavericks on Friday in the opening match of the UPT20 2026 season at the Ekana Cricket Stadium. The opening fixture brings back a familiar contest for Kashi Rudras. The two sides met in last seasons final, with Kashi producing a dominant performance to beat Meerut Mavericks by eight wickets and claim their second UPT20 title. The Rudras will return to competitive action with a new-look squad, following an 11-day pre-season camp in Kanpur from August 1 to 11. The camp brought the players together for focused training and gave the group valuable time to settle into their roles ahead of the season. It has been a very good camp for us. We got the space to spend time together, understand each other, and get comfortable as a group before we started thinking about this first game. It is a great feeling to be part of a setup where the conversations began even before we stepped onto the field for practice. The team has come together really well, and we know there is a lot of hard work ahead, Sharma said. We have the support and prayers of Kashi behind us, and now it is about taking that energy into the first game and giving our best, he added. Rudras set the tone last season, winning seven of their 10 league matches, including their first six, before beating Mavericks in Qualifier 1 and the final. Captain Karan Sharma led the leagues run charts with 519 runs and finished as the top run-scorer, claiming his 2nd Orange Cap in UPT20 history. Atal Bihari Rai finished joint-second among the leading wicket-takers with 20 wickets, while Sunil Kumar and Kartik Yadav also made strong contributions with 15 and 14 wickets respectively. The meeting also brings together the only two teams to have won the UPT20 League so far. Kashi Rudras lifted the inaugural title in 2023 before winning again in 2025, while Meerut Mavericks claimed the championship in 2024. Speaking about the opening game, head coach Dhruv Singh said, We have had good preparation, and the camp was a really important part of that. It gave us time to look at the players closely, understand their strengths, and work on the things we wanted to improve before the competition begins. There is a good balance in this group, and everyone understands that we have to start well. The first game is against a familiar side, but our focus will be on executing our plans and making sure we are ready for the demands of the season. Retaining the core group, Rudras made further additions to the squad at the player auction in Agra. All-rounder Mohammad Sharim was the franchise's highest-priced signing at 17.50 lakh, while Vaibhav Choudhary, Vijay Yadav, Virat Jaiswal, Manav Sindhu and Sahab Yuvraj Singh also joined the squad. Speaking about the opening game, head coach Dhruv Singh said, We have had good preparation, and the camp was a really important part of that. It gave us time to look at the players closely, understand their strengths, and work on the things we wanted to improve before the competition begins. There is a good balance in this group, and everyone understands that we have to start well. The first game is against a familiar side, but our focus will be on executing our plans and making sure we are ready for the demands of the season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The UPT20 League will run from August 14 to September 6, with the opening phase in Lucknow before the tournament moves to Kanpur for the latter half, including the knockouts and final. Article Source: IANS
145 wickets: Sri Lanka's Galle spin duo awaits India
Sri Lankan spinners Prabath Jayasuriya and Ramesh Mendis have established the Galle International Cricket Stadium as their formidable stronghold, collectively taking 145 wickets, posing a significant challenge for visiting teams, especially India.
India's Playing XI For 1st Test vs Sri Lanka: No Auqib Nabi, Bowling Coach Hints At '3-Way' Strategy
Bowling coach Morne Morkel on Thursday indicated that India could field three left-arm spinners in the upcoming first Test against Sri Lanka
Auqib Nabi Breaks Silence On Long Wait For India Call-Up Despite Ranji Trophy Heroics
Pacer Auqib Nabi, who also contributes with the bat, impressed one and all with his heroics on the domestic circuit.
Indias cricket team intensifies training ahead of first test in Galle
The focus in catching emphasised ambidexterity, encouraging fielders to make one-handed catches with either hand
Indian Premier League: For spinner Praveen Dubey, being part of an Indian Premier League (IPL) squad has never been the same as getting a genuine run in the playing XI. After years of waiting, learning from some of the biggest names in Indian cricket and continuing to build his game in domestic competitions, the Punjab Kings leg-spinner believes he is ready to make the most of his next opportunity. Dubey, who entered the IPL ecosystem with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2016 before moving to Delhi Capitals and now Punjab Kings (PBKS), admitted that he is yet to get enough chances to demonstrate his full potential at the highest level. Rather than allowing that frustration to weigh on him, the leg-spinner has chosen to focus on his development and remain prepared for the moment his opportunity arrives. Until now, I haven't had enough opportunities to play and show my talent or performance. So, I have started my process in the domestic and local leagues. And I am ready for any chance I get, Praveen told IANS in an exclusive interview. The wait is not unfamiliar for Dubey. His first IPL season with RCB was largely a learning experience, as the youngster spent time with senior players and tried to understand what was required to perform at the highest level. So, my first year was a very good learning experience for me. I was selected for the IPL for the first time, he added. Among the senior figures he interacted with was Virat Kohli, with Dubey using those conversations to work on the mental side of his game while waiting for his opportunity. At that time, I had Virat with me. I used to talk to him about how I could improve my mindset. And in between, I used to think that whenever I get a chance to play, I should do well, Dubey stated. After spending two years around the RCB setup without getting a consistent opportunity, Dubey moved to DC. His chance eventually came soon after joining the franchise, and he was able to carry the confidence of his domestic performances into the IPL. When I didn't get a chance to play for a year or two, then I went to DC. I got a chance to play there only after two matches. So, I was with the players for 2 years during my time at RCB. And I was trying to do what I did in my domestic career. And after playing, it turned out very well. And then I played in the 2020 finals. So, that experience was very good, he mentioned. At Punjab Kings, Dubey has another opportunity to learn from an established leg-spinner, with Yuzvendra Chahal now part of the same bowling group. The relationship between the two goes back to their RCB days, giving Dubey an experienced teammate with whom he can discuss the finer details of T20 bowling. I was with Yuzi in RCB as well. We used to talk a lot. And obviously, it feels good to bowl with him. And you get to learn a lot, too. He has played so many matches. He is the highest wicket-taker in the IPL, he opined. While Chahal's presence provides a valuable learning opportunity, Dubey also believes the two could potentially operate together if conditions favour spin, as he stated, But at the same time, I thought that if the ground conditions are such that the spinners get more help, then maybe we can play together as well. Their conversations also extend to specific match-ups and game situations, with Dubey saying Chahal's experience has proved useful during practice sessions, as he added, But in practice, whenever we bowl together, we talk a lot. And he keeps telling me how to bowl to which batsman, what to do in which situation. So, it's very helpful to bowl with him. While waiting for his next IPL opportunity, Dubey has continued to refine his bowling philosophy. The leg-spinner believes that looking for wickets rather than simply trying to contain runs gives him a better chance of creating pressure. I feel that most of the time, the bowling that I am doing right now, I am only looking to take wickets. If I am going to save a lot, then that is a negative thing. And there are runs as well. Recently, I have also played in the Maharaja Trophy. So, my main focus was to go for the wicket. And that thing was helping me as well, Dubey said. For Dubey, the idea is to make aggressive batters uncomfortable and force them into taking risks. After going for a wicket, the batsmen automatically go into defensive mode, and we can attack more. And it depends on which batsman- right-handed batsman or left-handed batsman- I have for which wicket-taking ball. So, I bowl according to that. I feel that if I bowl my best ball to the most attacking batsmen and don't give them boundaries easily, they will try something extra, which will increase my chances of getting a wicket, he noted. That attacking mindset also means accepting that boundaries will come. Dubey believes the key is not to let one expensive delivery change his approach. T20 is such a game that even good balls have boundaries. And nowadays, as you can see in cricket, T20 is being played so easily. So, my mindset is to focus on my strengths. I will try to bowl my best ball. If there are boundaries or anything, then I don't have a problem. But if I get a mark on a good ball, then I don't have a problem. I will focus on that only, he expressed. Dubey's preparations have not been limited to bowling. His recent stint in the Maharaja Trophy also saw him put considerable emphasis on his batting, with the aim of making himself a more useful all-round option. Recently, I played the Maharaja Trophy, and I have also worked a lot on batting. So, I do bowl, but I have also won a lot of matches. So, as an all-rounder, I can play in the team. I will also contribute in bowling and 100% in batting. That additional dimension could become important for Dubey as he looks to make himself harder to leave out when an opportunity comes his way. Recently, I played the Maharaja Trophy, and I have also worked a lot on batting. So, I do bowl, but I have also won a lot of matches. So, as an all-rounder, I can play in the team. I will also contribute in bowling and 100% in batting. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That advice has shaped his approach to the latest phase of his IPL journey. So, I am doing the same thing. I am focusing on the process and waiting for my chance. Whenever I get a chance, I will do my best for the team and win, Dubey concluded. Article Source: IANS
Sri Lanka Test captain Dhananjaya de Silva highlighted one India batter as a major threat for the hosts for the upcoming two-match series.
Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is at a critical juncture in his Test career, with his performance in the upcoming Sri Lanka series crucial for his future, especially given his struggles against spin and the presence of Sarfaraz Khan.
Ball Goes Soft After 2530 Overs: Morkel Warns India Seamers Ahead Of Sri Lanka Tests
Sri Lanka Tests: India's bowling coach Morne Morkel has urged the teams seamers to adapt quickly to Sri Lankas heat, humidity and the changing nature of the Kookaburra ball, stressing that maintaining intensity and finding creative ways to generate pressure will be crucial in the two-Test series which will commence on Saturday. Indias pace department has been dealt a significant blow with Jasprit Bumrah ruled out of the series due to a knee injury. Mohammed Siraj is now the most experienced member of the seam attack, with Prasidh Krishna, Gurnoor Brar and newly called-up Auqib Nabi providing the other options. Morkel believes the conditions will test the Indian seamers ability to adjust their plans once the ball loses its hardness. Our skill is there, and the planning will be there, but the biggest challenge coming to Sri Lanka is the heat, the humidity, and the Kookaburra ball going soft a little earlier. It will go soft after 25 or 30 overs, so we have to expect that. In these conditions, its all about your mindset. If youre a fast bowler, if youre going to bowl the shortest spells, the energy you put into the ball and putting it into good areas -- youll always have opportunity, Morkel said, as quoted by Cricinfo. The bowling coach wants Indias seamers to make the most of the early stages of their spells before finding alternative methods to create chances as the ball gets older. As the Test match will go on, hopefully there will be a little bit of uneven bounce. Its about how we can stack up overs together with intensity and create that pressure because we havent played a lot of red-ball cricket in the last couple of months; going back into that is going to be a challenge as well, he said. The former South Africa pacer believes hitting the deck hard and maintaining disciplined lengths can still trouble batters in Sri Lankan conditions. Still, the bowlers will need to become more inventive once the Kookaburra loses its hardness. Even in our playing days, I thought if you hit the deck hard here, you are asking lots of questions on a good length, youre always in the chance of picking up results, Morkel said. The former South Africa pacer believes hitting the deck hard and maintaining disciplined lengths can still trouble batters in Sri Lankan conditions. Still, the bowlers will need to become more inventive once the Kookaburra loses its hardness. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The first Test will be played in Galle from August 15, while the second Test is scheduled for Colombo from August 23. Article Source: IANS
Smith was ready to walk off before DRS flat line
Bangladesh were convinced Smith had edged behind early in his innings and the batter himself thought so too
I knew I would get India call-up one day, says Auqib Nabi, ahead of SL Test series
Nabi has been drafted into the Indian squad as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka
Dhruv Jurel's Preparation: Talking To KL Rahul, Watchful Against Spin At Nets
Dhruv Jurel was a picture of concentration in the nets at the sweltering Galle, middling almost everything that came his way from pacers and spinners alike.
Shubman Gill Has 1 Big Challenge In Order To Qualify For WTC 2027 Final. Matthew Hayden Sums It Up
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has backed India's Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill to handle the challenges facing the team in the longer format.
'His name is doing the rounds': Ashwin hints at CSK coach
Following Stephen Fleming's departure, Chennai Super Kings are seeking a new head coach. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has suggested Eoin Morgan as a strong candidate, citing his leadership experience. Ashwin also believes MS Dhoni should continue to provide leadership during this transition period.
'Hardik Pandya Is My Idol': APL's Top Wicket-taker Credits Indian All-rounder For Success
Assam Premier League: Dibrugarh Warriors all-rounder Doikho Das has credited India star Hardik Pandya as his idol, saying he is trying to model his game on the dynamic all-rounders aggressive approach as he continues to make his mark in the inaugural Assam Premier League (APL) 2026. Das has been one of the standout performers for the Warriors, who sit at the top of the points table with five wins from six matches and 10 points. The seamer has claimed 13 wickets in six games at an economy rate of 7.80, including an impressive 4/33 against Charaideo Sunrisers. He believes his admiration for Pandya has influenced the way he approaches bowling, particularly his use of the short ball. Hardik Pandya is my idol. I like the way he plays his cricket, and I try to learn from his style. I focus on hitting the deck hard and bowling aggressively, especially with the short ball, Das said. The short ball is my stock delivery. It has brought me success, and with the pitches offering assistance, I am leaning into that strength, he added. While Das has so far made his biggest impact with the ball, he considers himself an all-rounder and is waiting for an opportunity to contribute with the bat. I havent had the chance to bat yet, but Im ready to make an impact whenever the opportunity arises. I want to contribute in both departments whenever my team needs me, he said. The 13-wicket haul has made Das one of the tournaments leading wicket-takers, but the youngster believes keeping things simple has been the key to his success. My mindset is clear. I dont focus on the batter; I only focus on hitting my areas and sticking to the plan. That helps me stay disciplined and not get distracted, he reckoned. The 13-wicket haul has made Das one of the tournaments leading wicket-takers, but the youngster believes keeping things simple has been the key to his success. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Personal performances dont matter as much if the team doesnt win. Im not satisfied yet because I want to keep improving to help the team move forward, he said. Article Source: IANS
Australia womens vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner has addressed the personal fallout from the breakdown of her marriage after allegations concerning a relationship with teammate Georgia Voll became public. Gardners ex-wife Monica Wright had criticised Cricket Australia...
Have No Interest In ODIs, Says India Great Who Played 200 Plus One-Day Internationals
The death of bilateral international cricket is a real possibility because of the exploding popularity of T20 leagues, feels the former India star.
Mitchell Starc becomes most successful left-arm bowler in Test history
Mitchell Starc surpassed Rangana Herath to become the most successful left-handed bowler in Test history with 434 wickets.
Ayodhya back in Sri Lanka Women's T20 Asia Cup squad
She is one of the three changes Sri Lanka made to the T20I squad that played Pakistan at home last month
European T20 Premier League: With the inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL) scheduled to get underway on August 26, Dublin Guardians captain and mentor Ravichandran Ashwin has welcomed Irelands recent 2-0 series victory over India, pointing to the result and the nature of the pitches as encouraging signs for crickets global expansion. Ashwin, who will lead the Dublin Guardians in the tournament, said Irelands triumph over the worlds No.1-ranked side underlined the competitive possibilities for emerging cricketing nations, while also highlighting how helpful balanced surfaces can be for bowlers in the shortest format. Two things made me very happy. One was that a team ranked 10th could beat a team ranked first. I think the sport should be like that. It is also a lesson that the FIFA World Cup has taught us. For this game to become a truly global sport, with more nations coming to the fore and with cricket set to feature in the Olympics in the next couple of years, I see it as a huge positive, Ashwin told JioStar. For Ashwin, Irelands success was not merely about an upset result. The veteran spinner also saw the series as evidence of how pitch conditions can bring different skills and tactical approaches into play, particularly in T20 cricket. The second aspect is that if there is something in the pitch and there is a balance between bat and ball, bowlers are going to come into play, which Ireland proved beyond any doubt, he added. He singled out Ireland left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys for particular praise, with the youngster's success against India providing Ashwin an example of the continued relevance of finger spin when conditions allow bowlers to operate effectively. To have a left-arm spinner like Humphreys bowl to Shivam Dube and get him caught at square leg is a lesson for people who ask me what has happened to the art of finger spin, he stated. Ashwin also questioned the extent to which modern T20 cricket has become favourable to batters, arguing that the conditions can make life difficult for every bowler and force teams to rely on detailed planning as well as an element of fortune. The pitches have reached a point where any bowler can go the distance on a given day. I think you need a lot of luck to survive, apart from having plenty of plans in place in modern T20 cricket, the former India all-rounder said. The manner in which Humphreys was entrusted with responsibility late in the innings further impressed Ashwin. The Dublin Guardians captain pointed to the decision to use the spinner against a left-handed batter deep into the innings as an example of how conditions can influence tactical calls. So, it was a refreshing pitch to watch, and it was even more refreshing to see Humphreys being trusted with the 18th or 19th over against a left-hander. The pitch had enough in it and did not allow the left-hander to hit through the line. So, on both counts, it was very, very pleasing to watch, Ashwin said. Ashwin will now turn his attention to the ETPL, where the Dublin Guardians are among the teams preparing for the leagues first season. The tournament has attracted prominent names from the cricketing world, including Rahul Dravid and Jonty Rhodes in ownership roles. Dravid, the co-owner of the Dublin Guardians, spoke highly of Ashwins role within the franchise and underlined the value of having an experienced cricketer focused on leadership and nurturing younger players. I'm glad that we got Ashwin on board. He is obviously a legend of the game and a world-class performer, but he is also a really good captain and leader. He is someone who has a very clear idea and vision of how, at this stage of his career, he wants to focus on developing and working with young talent, Dravid said. Dravid, the co-owner of the Dublin Guardians, spoke highly of Ashwins role within the franchise and underlined the value of having an experienced cricketer focused on leadership and nurturing younger players. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In Rotterdam specifically, we have a great opportunity because it is the gateway to Europe. We want people to come and experience something slightly different because Europeans are very outdoorsy and active. They play ball sports and participate in Olympic sports. With cricket now part of the Olympics, it presents a very compelling case. If you want to represent your country, here is an opportunity, Rhodes stated. Article Source: IANS
