New PCA Stadium: India all-rounder Washington Sundar expressed satisfaction with both his bowling rhythm and batting discipline after playing a decisive role in India's thumping 300-run win over Afghanistan in the one-off Test that concluded on the third day of play on Monday at the New PCA Stadium in Mullanpur. The off-spinning all-rounder, who returned to the longest format after a gap and weeks of non-stop T20 cricket, said finding his rhythm immediately was one of the most pleasing aspects of his performance. Sundar followed up an unbeaten half-century in India's first innings with a four-wicket haul in Afghanistan's second innings as India wrapped up an innings-and-300-run win. I felt really good, especially to play this format after a while. I just wanted to get a lot of volume coming into the game and obviously I felt like I was getting the rhythm right from the scratch, from ball one. And that was definitely a very good feeling, Sundar said after Indias win. Sundar's spell on the final morning proved instrumental in dismantling Afghanistan's resistance. While conditions offered assistance to the bowlers, the 26-year-old stressed that his focus remained on consistency rather than altering his pace. I didn't really think about the pace as such. I was just working on getting my rhythm right. Especially yesterday I was bowling really well. The way the ball was coming out of my hand, I was really pleased with it, he explained. The spinner added that understanding the nature of the surface was crucial to his success. With the pitch slowing down, he believed accuracy in length became more important than experimentation. I wanted to be as close to the stumps as possible. And obviously get those lengths really right because this wicket is a little slow. If you're going to bowl a good length or a little back of length, the batsmen just did have a little bit of time to actually go on the back foot and sort of manoeuvre. So I had to really get lengths really right on this wicket, Sundar said. India's bowlers were involved in a few unsuccessful reviews during the match, but Sundar viewed it as an inevitable part of modern cricket and a learning process for the team. It's part and parcel of the game. We just try and go with our experiences in the past and obviously what our gut says at that point of time. You've got to use the technology to the best. We try and use it to the best. It doesn't happen every time, but it's just an experience, he said. Sundar's contribution was not limited to the ball. Coming in during the latter stages of India's imposing first innings total of 564 for 8 declared, he remained unbeaten on 52 and helped extend the lead beyond Afghanistan's reach. It's part and parcel of the game. We just try and go with our experiences in the past and obviously what our gut says at that point of time. You've got to use the technology to the best. We try and use it to the best. It doesn't happen every time, but it's just an experience, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Definitely, it felt really good, both with the bat and the ball, he said. I wanted to show good discipline with the bat and glad the way I sort of approached the entire innings. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: All-round India Dominate Afghanistan To Script Biggest Test Victory (Ld)
Mohammad Saleem Safi: India completed their most dominant Test victory by margin on Sunday, crushing Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs inside three days after a commanding all-round performance spearheaded by centuries from Shubman Gill and KL Rahul and a match-winning bowling effort from debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar. Having piled up a mammoth 564/8 before declaring their first innings, India bundled Afghanistan out for 152 and then 112 after enforcing the follow-on, surpassing their previous biggest Test victory and underlining their dominance. The foundation for the victory was laid by India's top order after Afghanistan opted to bowl. Rahul produced a typically assured innings of 100 from 165 deliveries, weathering the early movement before taking complete control of the contest. Alongside him, captain Gill once again showcased his growing stature in Test cricket with a majestic 126 off 177 balls, striking 15 fours and a six in an innings that blended authority with elegance. Their efforts ensured Afghanistan spent long hours in the field as India steadily tightened their grip on the match. Sai Sudharsan continued his impressive rise with a fluent 81, while Rishabh Pant entertained with an aggressive 81 that featured six boundaries and three sixes. By the time Pant departed, Afghanistan's bowlers were already under immense pressure. Washington Sundar then provided the finishing touches with an unbeaten 52, while Manav Suthar and Mohammed Siraj chipped in with useful lower-order contributions as India eventually declared on 564 for 8. The lone bright spot for Afghanistan was Mohammad Saleem Safi, who claimed 6 for 140 despite receiving little support from the rest of the attack. Facing a mountain of runs, Afghanistan's first innings never truly gathered momentum. Opener Abdul Malik and Sediqullah Atal showed brief resistance, but wickets fell regularly as India's bowlers tightened their hold. The only substantial challenge came from Rahmat Shah, who fought a lonely battle with a determined 60 from 135 deliveries. The innings, however, belonged to Suthar. The debutant exploited the surface expertly, varying his pace and trajectory to consistently trouble the batters. He dismissed Abdul Malik, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, Rahmat Shah, Afsar Zazai, Sharafuddin Ashraf and Saleem Safi to finish with outstanding figures of 6 for 33 from 22 miserly overs. Prasidh Krishna provided excellent support with 3 for 37 as Afghanistan were bowled out for 152. With a lead of 412 runs, Gill had little hesitation in enforcing the follow-on. To Afghanistan's credit, their response was significantly more positive. Sediqullah Atal took the attack to the spinners and struck an enterprising 42, while Rahmanullah Gurbaz contributed a brisk 24 as the visitors raced to 42 without loss and briefly forced India to work harder for breakthroughs. The opening stand represented Afghanistan's best passage of the match and momentarily delayed the inevitable. India eventually found the breakthrough through Mohammed Siraj, whose persistence was rewarded when Abdul Malik was trapped lbw. Once the first wicket fell, the innings unravelled rapidly. Kuldeep Yadav removed the dangerous Gurbaz before Washington Sundar produced a decisive spell after tea. Sundar dismissed Rahmat Shah, Hashmatullah Shahidi and Azmatullah Omarzai while consistently extracting drift and turn. The off-spinner's control allowed India to tighten the screws as Afghanistan lost four wickets for just 24 runs during the middle session. Manav Suthar added another wicket to cap a memorable debut Test, trapping Afsar Zazai lbw, while Kuldeep wrapped up the tail with three wickets, including the final dismissal of Saleem Safi. Sharafuddin Ashraf, nursing an injury, did not bat, bringing the match to a close at 112 all out in 35.5 overs. Sundar finished with 4 for 36 in the innings and five wickets in the match to go with his valuable half-century, underlining his all-round impact. Kuldeep returned 3 for 30, while Siraj and Suthar chipped in with one wicket apiece. The victory was India's largest in Test cricket by margin, eclipsing previous records and showcasing the depth of a side that dominated every phase of the contest. Gill's century, Rahul's hundred, valuable contributions from Sudharsan, Pant and Sundar, and Suthar's seven-wicket match haul ensured India controlled proceedings from the first session to the last. Sundar finished with 4 for 36 in the innings and five wickets in the match to go with his valuable half-century, underlining his all-round impact. Kuldeep returned 3 for 30, while Siraj and Suthar chipped in with one wicket apiece. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100, Sai Sudharsan 81, Rishabh Pant 81, Washington Sundar 52*; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140) beat Afghanistan 152 in 58.4 overs (Rahmat Shah 60; Manav Suthar 6-33, Prasidh Krishna 3-37) and 112 in 35.5 overs (Sediqullah Atal 42, Rahmanullah Gurbaz 24; Washington Sundar 4-36, Kuldeep Yadav 3-30, Manav Suthar 1-29) by an innings and 300 runs. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: India Crush Afghanistan By Innings And 300 Runs, Register Biggest Red-ball Win
New PCA Stadium: Debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar capped a dream Test debut as India completed their biggest-ever victory in the format, thrashing Afghanistan by an innings and 300 runs on the third day of the one-off Test at the New PCA Stadium on Monday. After piling up a commanding 564/8 declared in their first innings, India dismissed Afghanistan for 152 before Lunch on Day 3 and enforced the follow-on. The hosts then bowled the visitors out for 112 in just 35.5 overs to seal an emphatic win inside three days. India had laid the foundation for the crushing victory through dominant batting performances over the first two days. KL Rahul struck 100, captain Shubman Gill led from the front with 126, while Sai Sudharsan (81), Rishabh Pant (81) and Washington Sundar (52 not out) ensured the hosts posted a mammoth total after opting to bat first. Afghanistan never recovered from that scoreboard pressure. Resuming Day 3 at 113/5 in their first innings, they were bowled out for 152 despite Rahmat Shah's fighting 60. Suthar was the chief destroyer, returning outstanding figures of 6/33 to register the second-best bowling figures by an Indian on Test debut. Faced with a deficit of 412 runs, Afghanistan were asked to bat again and initially showed far greater resolve. Openers Abdul Malik and Sediqullah Atal put on 42 runs, their best opening stand against India in Tests, while Atal counterattacked the spinners and looked determined to extend the contest. However, Mohammed Siraj provided the breakthrough by trapping Malik lbw, opening the door for India's spinners. Rahmanullah Gurbaz struck a brisk 24, but Kuldeep Yadav dismissed him before Washington Sundar triggered a dramatic collapse. The off-spinner removed Rahmat Shah and Hashmatullah Shahidi in the second session before dismissing the well-set Atal for 42 on the stroke of tea. Afghanistan slipped from a 74/1 to 98/5 and never recovered. The final session lasted barely six overs. Suthar struck again when he trapped Afsar Zazai lbw, while Sundar removed Azmatullah Omarzai to claim his fourth wicket of the innings. Kuldeep then wrapped up the tail, dismissing Nangeyalia Kharote and Mohammad Saleem Safi in successive deliveries. Afghanistan's innings ended at 112, with injured Sharafuddin Ashraf unable to bat, bringing the match to a conclusion. The final session lasted barely six overs. Suthar struck again when he trapped Afsar Zazai lbw, while Sundar removed Azmatullah Omarzai to claim his fourth wicket of the innings. Kuldeep then wrapped up the tail, dismissing Nangeyalia Kharote and Mohammad Saleem Safi in successive deliveries. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100, Sai Sudharsan 81, Rishabh Pant 81, Washington Sundar 52*; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140) beat Afghanistan 152 in 58.4 overs (Rahmat Shah 60; Manav Suthar 6-33, Prasidh Krishna 3-37) and 112 in 35.5 overs (Sediqullah Atal 42, Rahmanullah Gurbaz 24; Washington Sundar 4-36, Kuldeep Yadav 3-30, Manav Suthar 1-29) by an innings and 300 runs. Article Source: IANS
Sri Lanka A Batter Fernando Hopes To Cement National Team Berth Through 50-over Tri-series
Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium: Sri Lanka 'A' top-order batter Nuwanidu Fernando on Monday said he sees the upcoming 50-over tri-series against India 'A' and Afghanistan 'A' as a crucial opportunity to consolidate his position and work towards establishing himself as a regular in the national team. The tri-series begins at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday, with Sri Lanka A taking on Tilak Varma-led India A. In recent times, I have been batting well and the plan is to continue the same during this tri-series as well. I also consider the contests against India 'A' and Afghanistan 'A' as huge opportunities to excel as they are very good teams. I see this as a chance to further enhance my position and continue going forward towards my goal of playing regularly in the national team, Nuwanidu told IANS in an exclusive interview. Fernando, younger brother of Sri Lanka pacer Vishwa Fernando, said his elder sibling has been one of the prime motivations and pillars of support in his cricketing journey. I started playing cricket when I saw my elder brother Vishwas playing the game. Actually it's due to him that I started going to play cricket. Vishwa has been supporting me very well, which is why I am at this position right now. As someone who plays in the Sri Lankan team, Vishwa continuously advises me on how to handle pressure and adjust to the situations etc. So he's always there for me and one of the prime reasons for me playing cricket is my brother Vishwa, he said. On the playing conditions in Dambulla, Fernando said he expects uneven bounce and some turn, with weather also likely to play a role. The Dambulla pitch has uneven bounce and also there is a bit of a turn as well. As per the current weather conditions, it may have an impact on the bowling. I basically expect to have a look at the conditions on the day of the game and based on that, adjust my playing style to suit the conditions on offer, he said. Fernando, who has played six ODIs and three T20Is for Sri Lanka and amassed 102 runs in total, was keen to build on his performance in the recent 'A' series at home against New Zealand with 126 runs in three red-ball innings being the standout. The 'A' series against New Zealand was a good one for me and considering the team itself. I look to continue in the same vein in the 'A' teams tri-series. Yes, I did perform well for the national side, but that is now in the past. Now I need to once again start performing from this series, and play the way I have been playing and I will try to focus on making big in this particular series and focus on the future, he said. The St. Sebastian's College, Moratuwa alumnus also spoke about how his height gives him a technical edge in playing against both pacers and spinners. Owing to my height factor, it helps me to reach the ball and that's an advantage for me. Also, when it comes to playing the spin, I am able to easily play both on the front foot and back foot. Even for the fast bowlers, when they bowl a bouncer, I am able to handle it with some ease, and bring in some smoothness in my playing style because of the height factor, he said. The St. Sebastian's College, Moratuwa alumnus also spoke about how his height gives him a technical edge in playing against both pacers and spinners. Owing to my height factor, it helps me to reach the ball and that's an advantage for me. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Watch India A-Team Tri Series 2026 (OD) - Sri Lanka A vs India A on June 9th 2026, from 10:00 AM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD, Sony Sports Ten 3 SD & HD (Hind), Sony Sports Ten 4 SD (Tamil, Telugu, Kannada) and Sony LIV. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Sundar Strikes Thrice To Reduce Afghanistan To 98/5 At Tea
Mohammad Saleem Safi: Washington Sundar struck three crucial blows in the second session as India continued to tighten their grip on the one-off Test against Afghanistan, reducing the visitors to 98/5 in their follow-on innings at tea on Day 3 at the PCA Stadium on Monday. After being bowled out for 152 in their first innings earlier in the day and conceding a 415-run lead, Afghanistan responded with far greater intent in their second outing with the bat. Resuming from 18/0 at lunch, the visitors frustrated India for long periods and showed a willingness to counterattack the spinners before losing wickets at regular intervals. The foundation of Afghanistan's resistance was laid by opener Sediqullah Atal, who continued the positive approach he had displayed before lunch. Having taken on debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar in the morning session, Atal mixed caution with aggression and helped Afghanistan bring up their highest opening partnership against India in Test cricket. India finally broke through when Mohammed Siraj trapped Abdul Malik lbw for 8, ending a 42-run opening stand. Siraj had repeatedly tested Atal outside off stump and was rewarded immediately after switching his attention to Malik, who was pinned in front attempting to play across the line. Rahmanullah Gurbaz then injected momentum into the innings. The wicketkeeper-batter attacked both Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar, striking three fours and a six in a brisk 24 off 24 balls. Alongside Atal, Gurbaz added 32 runs and briefly put India on the defensive. However, Kuldeep earned his first wicket of the match when Gurbaz's attempted lofted drive off a spinning delivery found Prasidh Krishna at long-on. Afghanistan slipped to 74/2, opening the door for India once again. Rahmat Shah, Afghanistan's lone half-centurion from the first innings, looked to carry the fight forward and even launched Sundar for a six over mid-on. But Sundar's drift proved decisive as Rahmat charged down the track and miscued to Manav Suthar at mid-off for 13. The off-spinner struck again when Hashmatullah Shahidi edged a turning delivery to first slip, where Shubman Gill completed a low catch after a television review confirmed the dismissal. Rahmanullah Gurbaz then injected momentum into the innings. The wicketkeeper-batter attacked both Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar, striking three fours and a six in a brisk 24 off 24 balls. Alongside Atal, Gurbaz added 32 runs and briefly put India on the defensive. However, Kuldeep earned his first wicket of the match when Gurbaz's attempted lofted drive off a spinning delivery found Prasidh Krishna at long-on. Afghanistan slipped to 74/2, opening the door for India once again. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec. in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100, Rishabh Pant 81, Sai Sudharsan 81, Washington Sundar 52*; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140) lead Afghanistan 152 and 98/5 in 29 overs (Sediqullah Atal 42, Rahmanullah Gurbaz 24; Washington Sundar 3/30, Kuldeep Yadav 1/24, Mohammed Siraj 1/11) by 314 runs. Article Source: IANS
Sooryavanshi, A Special Talent We Are Putting Too Much Pressure On Him: Kapil Dev
India T20I: Former India captain Kapil Dev has described teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi as a special talent, but cautioned against burdening the youngster with excessive pressure so early in his career. At 15 years and 71 days, the left-handed opener earned his maiden call-up to the India T20I squad for the upcoming tours of Ireland and England and the Asian Games 2026. He became the youngest player to be picked, breaking Sachin Tendulkars 36-year-old record. I think he is a special talent, but he has to go a long way. There is no doubt that at such a young age, the way he has performed in club cricket shows his ability. He just needs to focus on himself because he has a long journey ahead. At the moment, I think we are putting too much pressure on him, Kapil Dev told IANS. Tendulkar made his India debut in 1989 against Pakistan at the age of 16 years and 205 days, making him the youngest Indian player ever to feature in a senior international cricket match. If Sooryavanshi features during the tour, he will also become the youngest player to debut for India in mens international cricket. Sooryavanshis call-up comes on the back of a sensational IPL 2026 campaign with Rajasthan Royals, where he established himself as one of the breakout stars of the tournament. Opening the batting for the RR, the left-hander won the Orange Cap after scoring 776 runs in 16 innings at a staggering strike rate of 237.30. His season included one century, five half-centuries and a record 72 sixes. Tendulkar made his India debut in 1989 against Pakistan at the age of 16 years and 205 days, making him the youngest Indian player ever to feature in a senior international cricket match. If Sooryavanshi features during the tour, he will also become the youngest player to debut for India in mens international cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Before joining the senior squad for the Ireland series, Sooryavanshi is set to represent India A for the tri-series in Sri Lanka from June 9 to 21. Article Source: IANS
Batting Heavy India Seek T20 WC Silverware Despite Inexperience In Bowling (SWOT Analysis)
With Renuka Singh Thakur: India will enter the tenth edition of the Women's T20 World Cup in England and Wales on the back of winning the 50-over World Cup on home soil last year. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side has a batting lineup capable of frightening any opponent, yet the bowling attack is still relatively inexperienced to excel in English conditions. Indias best finish in the Womens T20 World Cup came in 2020 when they became runners-up after losing to Australia in the final at Melbourne Cricket Ground. With the side set to open their Group 1 campaign against Pakistan on June 14 and followed by taking on Bangladesh, Netherlands, South Africa and Australia, IANS takes a look at the Indian team through an in-depth SWOT analysis. Strengths: The batting is where India genuinely stands apart from other 11 teams. Since the last Women's T20 World Cup in 2024, their top order possesses the second-highest team average in the world (30.1) and run rate (8.8), which is behind only six-time winners Australia. At the top, Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma have been nothing short of devastating. Their opening partnership has yielded 762 runs in that period, with a strike rate of 150, more than any other pair in women's T20Is. Smritis record in England specifically warrants attention. Among batters with 500 or more runs in women's T20Is in England, nobody averages higher than her 38.3. Despite her making 40 runs in the recent 2-1 T20I series loss in England, India will count on Smriti to get big runs at the top in the World Cup. Shafali, meanwhile, brings something different raw power coupled with immense maturity. Her strike rate of 157 during the powerplay since the 2024 World Cup is the highest among any batter who has faced a significant volume of balls, and she has somehow been even more destructive in the middle overs, striking at 164. She has hit 16 sixes in this period, joint-second in the world alongside Smriti, Sophie Devine and Sobhana Mostary. One will hope that Shafali will finally hit her first T20 World Cup fifty in England, as her explosive power-game separates her from a lot of batters in T20Is. The spin bowling department is also another strength point of India, especially if hot conditions are on offer on match days. Post the 2024 edition, the Indian spin bowling unit has the second-best balls per wicket rate (17.9) after Australia, while picking 84 wickets in 24 innings at an economy rate of 7.6. Sree Charani, who debuted in T20is in England last year and took ten wickets in that series to win Player of the Series award, will hold the key again alongside Shreyanka Patil and Radha Yadav. Deepti Sharma, the all-time leading wicket-taker in women's T20Is with 161 scalps, provides the experience that holds the Indian team together despite a slight recent mixed time in the format. Weaknesses: The pace bowling department remains a persistent source of anxiety, especially with no Amanjot Kaur and Kashvee Gautam due to back and knee injuries respectively. With Renuka Singh Thakur not featuring in Indias 2-1 series loss to England due to unknown reasons, it has meant that the side are well short of depth in fast bowling pool. Moreover, not all bowlers in the Indian team have considerable experience of bowling in English conditions, which means theres inexperience aplenty and thats something which opposition batters will look to exploit. In the powerplay, when conditions in England may offer the most help, India have been the most expensive attack in - conceding at eight runs per over, and they take a wicket only once every 28 balls - again the worst figure among the top teams. For a side that relies heavily on spinners to do the choking and wicket-taking job, the pacers giving away runs could prove to be costly. There is also the matter of India not settling its middle order Yastika Bhatia did well on return to the T20I team after two years at number three, a place held by Jemimah Rodrigues for a long time. But her tendency to suffer a slowdown after power-play means the pressure comes more on batters coming after her to do the bulk of the scoring. The point of concern for India is also their finishing department Richa Ghosh hasnt fired yet while Bharti Fulmali, who was brought into the Indian team for the second finisher role, has not got a consistent run and when she has come in, hasnt looked in prime touch. Opportunities: A year ago, India lifted the 50-over World Cup on home soil and sent the nation into the joy of breaking the drought of a senior womens cricket silverware. Now, going all the way to the T20 World Cup title will help India become the third side to clinch back-to-back silverwares after Australia and England. Momentum has been on Indias side until at least April's 4-1 defeat to South Africa and 2-1 loss to England. But India can take heart from their ability to switch on and perform well when it matters the most. Since the 2024 Womens World Cup, India have a win percentage of nearly 62 percent something which suggests a team moving in the right direction, even if the last few weeks have introduced doubts in the mind of its ardent supporters. The WPL has handed Harmanpreet two players who could change the complexion of close matches. Bharti is the power-hitter India's lower order has been eyeing on. Her role is straightforward - to go after bowling alongside Richa and give the innings a good finishing flourish. Meanwhile, Nandni Sharma arrives with even more fanfare. The Chandigarh-based pacer is the joint-leading wicket-taker in this year's WPL with 17 scalps from ten outings, she walked into her T20I debut against England last month and took 3-34. For a bowling attack searching for variety, Nandni is a timely arrival. Threats: The mixed recent form of India has meant that theres a feeling of the script from 2024 edition possibly repeating in 2026. In the UAE in 2024, India entered the competition with high expectations but unravelled after a heavy opening defeat to New Zealand in Dubai. Meanwhile, Nandni Sharma arrives with even more fanfare. The Chandigarh-based pacer is the joint-leading wicket-taker in this year's WPL with 17 scalps from ten outings, she walked into her T20I debut against England last month and took 3-34. For a bowling attack searching for variety, Nandni is a timely arrival. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For India to enter the semi-finals, it has to upstage South Africa and Australia in Group 1. The Proteas have been dominant, while Australia, entering without the pressure of a silverware defence, are dangerous to deal with in major competitions. India have been here before - good enough to go deep, unable to go all the way. Whether that is enough remains the only question that matters. Article Source: IANS
Kochhar Gets Top-10 Finish As Lindh Claims Bharath Classic Title In Morocco
Indian Golf Premier League: India's Karandeep Kochhar continued his impressive run on the Asian Tour with a bogey-free final-round 68 to secure a top-10 finish at the USD 500,000 IGPL Bharath Classic, while Sweden's Charlie Lindh stormed to victory with a tournament-best closing round. Kochhar carded rounds of 66, 73, 70 and 68 to finish at 11-under-par, good enough for a share of ninth place and his third top-10 finish of the season. The result also lifted the Chandigarh golfer to 12th in the Asian Tour Order of Merit standings. The tournament, co-sanctioned by the Indian Golf Premier League (IGPL) and the Asian Tour, was won convincingly by Lindh, who closed with a sensational eight-under 64 to finish at 18-under-par. The Swede, who had finished runner-up at the Kolon Korea Open in his previous start, capped off a superb week with an eagle on the 18th hole to secure a four-shot victory and move up to third on the Order of Merit. For Kochhar, the week was another demonstration of his growing consistency. The winner of the IGPL Dubai event was outstanding from tee to green, regularly finding fairways and greens in regulation. His only frustration came on the greens, where he required at least 28 putts in each round, including 34 during his second-round 73. On Sunday, Kochhar produced a flawless card, picking up birdies on the third, 10th, 11th and 14th holes to sign off with a four-under-par effort. He finished the tournament with 16 birdies and remained firmly in contention throughout the week. The 28-year-old Indian, who also registered a tied-fifth finish at the International Series Japan earlier this season, will now turn his attention to next week's USD 2 million International Series Morocco as he continues his pursuit of a maiden Asian Tour title. His only professional victory to date came on the Asian Development Tour in Egypt, a triumph that earned him full Asian Tour status. Among the other Indian contenders, Gaganjeet Bhullar and Yashas Chandra were the next-best performers, both finishing tied for 27th at six-under-par. Bhullar closed with a 68 featuring five birdies and a lone bogey, while Yashas produced a bogey-free round of 68. Rashid Khan finished tied 41st at three-under after a final-round 71, alongside Kartik Singh and Sachin Baisoya. Baisoya's closing 67 featured two eagles on the par-five third and seventh holes, while Kartik endured a roller-coaster round containing seven birdies, two bogeys and two double bogeys. Shaurya Bhattacharya signed off with a 71 to finish tied 52nd, Aman Raj was tied 56th after a round of 70, while Pukhraj Singh Gill, Raghav Chugh and Udayan Mane ended the week in the lower half of the leaderboard. Amateur Jai Bahl finished tied for 67th. At the top, Lindh produced the round of the tournament to overturn a three-shot overnight deficit. Starting the day behind Thailand's Settee Prakongvech, the Swede surged through the field before delivering a memorable finish. With childhood friend Isaac Bondesson on the bag, Lindh reached the edge of the 18th green in two shots and rolled in a 20-foot putt from the fringe for eagle to seal the title in style. It feels goodfeels really good. Feels like Im still focused, but when everything settles a little bit, I will realise what I have done today. I have been playing good coming into this week, and I have been very, very excited to play golf the last couple of months, because the game has been feeling better. And thankfully, I got some good results today, Lindh said. American Charles Porter briefly threatened to force a dramatic finish and was tied for the lead after 17 holes at 16-under. However, a wayward second shot into a water hazard on the final hole led to a costly double bogey, leaving him tied for second with Settee at 14-under. Thailand's Sarit Suwannarut fired a 66 to share fourth place with England's Sam Broadhurst, while American Marcus Plunkett joined Thailand's Poom Saksansin and Runchanapong Youprayong in a tie for sixth at 12-under. American Charles Porter briefly threatened to force a dramatic finish and was tied for the lead after 17 holes at 16-under. However, a wayward second shot into a water hazard on the final hole led to a costly double bogey, leaving him tied for second with Settee at 14-under. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Asian Tour now heads to Rabat for the USD 2 million International Series Morocco presented by Visit Morocco, where Kochhar and several other Indians will look to build on their encouraging performances from El Jadida. Article Source: IANS
Mithali, Anjum Among Former Captains In Womens T20 World Cup Star-studded Commentary Panel
The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced a top-tier, female-led commentary team for the 2026 Womens T20 World Cup, showcasing the range of expertise, experience, and impact fuelling the global expansion of womens cricket. The commentary team includes for captains and international stars Mithali Raj, Tash Farrant, Anjum Chopra, Simon Doull, Veda Krishnamurthy, Sana Mir, Isobel Joyce, and Katey Martin. The line-up also consists several ICC World Cup winners with direct experience of triumphs on crickets biggest stages. Mel Jones and Julia Price were part of Australias winning ICC Womens Cricket World Cup team, while Stacy-Ann King was a member of the West Indies squad that won the ICC Womens T20 World Cup. Isa Guha and Ebony Rainford-Brent both achieved success with Englands ICC Womens Cricket World Cup-winning team and also played in the squad that secured the first ICC Womens T20 World Cup in 2009, the last edition held in England. In the mens game, Matthew Hayden is a two-time ICC Mens Cricket World Cup champion, while Dinesh Karthik and Carlos Brathwaite each hold ICC Mens T20 World Cup titles with India and West Indies, respectively. The lineup features some of the most well-known and respected voices in modern cricket commentary. Nasser Hussain, Ian Bishop, and Ian Smith, whose commentary contributed to the legendary broadcast of the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup 2019 final at Lords, will come together again at another major event in England, offering decades of expertise and perspective. Joining the lineup are experienced presenters and broadcasters, including Charles Dagnall, Natalie Germanos, Alan Wilkins, Laura McGoldrick, Jatin Sapru, Kass Naidoo, Raunak Kapoor, and Ali Mitchell. They have contributed to narrating some of the most unforgettable moments in sports and will deliver their distinctive insight, energy, and storytelling to audiences this summer. Bringing together ICC World Cup winners, former international captains, accomplished broadcasters, and some of the most respected voices in cricket, the commentary team will deliver expert analysis, insights, and stories across all 33 matches. The tournament begins on June 12 with England versus Sri Lanka and concludes with the final at Lords on July 5. Mel Jones, speaking of the upcoming stint, said, This is the biggest ICC Womens T20 World Cup ever, and it feels like a real milestone for the game. This tournament is a fitting celebration of how far women's cricket has come, and through our broadcast, fans everywhere will experience the skill, drama and emotion that continue to drive the sport forward. Meanwhile, former India captain Mithali Raj said, The depth of talent across the 12 competing teams is remarkable. Wherever you look, there are world-class players capable of producing moments that can define a tournament, and I can't wait to share those moments with the world. England great Isa Guha said, All of the host cities and venues provide a wonderful stage for an event of this magnitude, which will be reflected both in the stadium and on broadcast. Fans will experience world-class cricket in some of the most iconic settings our sport has to offer. Former England mens captain Nasser Hussain stated, The passion surrounding womens cricket, and the breadth of talent across the world, has never been stronger. The players taking the field this summer will help shape the future of the game and inspire the next generation to follow in their footsteps. England great Isa Guha said, All of the host cities and venues provide a wonderful stage for an event of this magnitude, which will be reflected both in the stadium and on broadcast. Fans will experience world-class cricket in some of the most iconic settings our sport has to offer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ian Bishop, the voice behind some of the best commentary calls, mentioned, Every ICC event creates moments that live on long after the trophy is lifted, and this tournament has all the ingredients to produce memories that will be remembered by fans for generations. It is a privilege to help tell the stories of the players who will inspire the next generation to dream bigger than ever before. Article Source: IANS
Confident Bangladesh pose Australia a fresh challenge after 15-year wait for an ODI series
While spin dominated in Pakistan, Australia could find pace playing more of a role this series
One-off Test: Afghanistan Reach 18/0 At Lunch After Follow-on As Suthar's 6fer Puts India In Command
New PCA Stadium: Debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar starred with a six-wicket haul before Afghanistan's openers showed greater resistance in the follow-on, reaching 18/0 at lunch on Day 3 of the one-off Test against India at the New PCA Stadium on Monday. After resuming the day at 113/5, Afghanistan were bowled out for 152 in their first innings, conceding a massive 412-run first-innings lead after India had declared at 564/8. Suthar was the chief architect of the collapse, finishing with outstanding figures of 6/33 in 22 overs to record the second-best bowling figures by an Indian on Test debut. India made an early breakthrough in the morning when Prasidh Krishna dismissed Azmatullah Omarzai for a duck, castling the all-rounder with a delivery that sneaked through his attempted drive. The wicket left Afghanistan at 118/6 and firmly on the back foot. Rahmat Shah, who had carried Afghanistan's hopes overnight, continued his determined resistance and became the first batter from his country to score a Test fifty against India. Having already become the first Afghanistan player to cross 1,000 Test runs on Day 2, Rahmat once again stood tall amid a batting collapse around him. The right-hander found support from Sharafuddin Ashraf, who battled through a visible injury to add valuable runs. However, Suthar returned to break the partnership, with Ashraf edging behind to Rishabh Pant after India successfully reviewed the on-field decision. Suthar then produced the ball of the innings, dismissing Rahmat for 60. The spinner drew the batter into a sweep with a flighted delivery that dipped sharply before crashing into the stumps, bringing up his maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket. The left-arm spinner added the wicket of Mohammad Saleem Safi soon after to complete a memorable six-for, while Washington Sundar wrapped up the innings by dismissing Ziaur Rahman Sharifi as Afghanistan folded for 152. With a lead of 412 runs, India enforced the follow-on and immediately handed the new ball to Suthar. Afghanistan's second innings, however, began with greater purpose. Opener Sediqullah Atal adopted an aggressive approach against the debutant spinner, refusing to allow him to settle into a rhythm. After surviving an early lbw appeal and a difficult chance at short leg, Atal counterattacked by striking a six over long-on and a boundary over mid-off, before adding another four to race to 16 off 12 deliveries. With a lead of 412 runs, India enforced the follow-on and immediately handed the new ball to Suthar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100, Rishabh Pant 81, Sai Sudharsan 81, Washington Sundar 52*; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140) lead Afghanistan 152/10 and 18/0 in 4 overs (Sediqullah Atal 16*, Abdul Malik 2*) by 394 runs. Article Source: IANS
Suthar six-for rolls Afghanistan over for 152
Rahmat Shah waged a lone battle for Afghanistan, but couldn't stop India from enforcing the follow-on
One-off Test: Debutant Suthar Bags 6-fer As India Bowl Out Afghanistan For 152, Enforce Follow-on
Mohammad Saleem Safi: Debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar marked his arrival in Test cricket with a six-wicket haul as India bundled out Afghanistan for 152 in their first innings and enforced the follow-on before lunch on Day 3 of the one-off Test at the PCA Stadium on Monday. Resuming at 113/5 and still trailing Indias imposing first-innings total of 564/8 (declared) by 451 runs, Afghanistan needed a substantial partnership from overnight batter Rahmat Shah to avoid a complete collapse. But Suthars ability to extract turn from the surface ensured India tightened their grip on the contest. The morning began positively for India when Prasidh Krishna struck in the fifth over of the day. Azmatullah Omarzai, who had faced 10 deliveries without scoring, was bowled attempting a drive, leaving Afghanistan at 118/6 and exposing the lower order. Rahmat, however, continued to fight a lone battle. The right-hander became the first Afghanistan batter to register a Test fifty against India, bringing up the landmark with a boundary off Prasidh. Having already become Afghanistans first player to cross 1,000 Test runs on Day 2, Rahmat once again showcased his resilience amid the ruins. He found brief support from Sharafuddin Ashraf, who battled through a visible quad injury and added 24 runs for the seventh wicket. The pair frustrated India for a period, with Rahmat unfurling a few crisp drives and Ashraf showing commendable determination despite struggling to run between the wickets. Just when Afghanistan appeared to be stabilising, Suthar returned to break the stand. Ashraf, attempting an ambitious slog, edged behind to Rishabh Pant, with India successfully overturning the on-field decision through a review. The breakthrough opened the floodgates. Suthar then produced the moment of the innings when he castled Rahmat for 60 with a beautifully flighted delivery that dipped, turned and crashed into the stumps as the batter attempted a sweep. The wicket brought up the spinners maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket and effectively ended Afghanistans resistance. The debutant was not done yet. He trapped Mohammad Saleem Safi lbw and finished with outstanding figures of 6/33 from 22 overs, becoming only the 10th Indian and seventh spinner from the country to claim a five-wicket haul on Test debut. Washington Sundar wrapped up the innings when Ziaur Rahman Sharifi holed out to Pant, leaving Afghanistan all out for 152 in 58.4 overs. Rahmats 60 was the only substantial score as Afghanistan lost their last five wickets for just 36 runs. The debutant was not done yet. He trapped Mohammad Saleem Safi lbw and finished with outstanding figures of 6/33 from 22 overs, becoming only the 10th Indian and seventh spinner from the country to claim a five-wicket haul on Test debut. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100, Rishabh Pant 81, Sai Sudharsan 81, Washington Sundar 52*; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140) lead Afghanistan 152/10 in 58.4 overs (Rahmat Shah 60, Hashmatullah Shahidi 20; Manav Suthar 6-33, Prasidh Krishna 3-37, Washington Sundar 1-21) by 412 runs. Article Source: IANS
U18 Men's And Women's Hockey Stars Accorded Grand Welcome At Delhi Airport After Asia Cup Success
Indira Gandhi International Airport: The Indian Under-18 men's and women's hockey teams were accorded a thunderous and warm welcome at the Indira Gandhi International Airport upon their return from a highly successful campaign at the Asia Cup. As the players walked out wearing their medals, they were greeted with garlands, and the tricolor amidst loud chants cheering with dhol. The Indian U-18 men's team returned with the ultimate prize, clinching a gold medal, while the spirited women's team locked in a podium finish with a bronze medal finish. The dual success has triggered widespread celebration, drawing high praise from the country's top leadership, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Speaking on the sidelines of the grand reception, men's head coach and hockey icon Sardar Singh noted that the overwhelming public reception and words of encouragement from the Prime Minister would act as a massive psychological booster for the junior stars. On the other hand, women's head coach Rani Rampal and captain Sweety Kujur reflected on their journey, calling the podium finish a stepping stone for the long international road ahead while remaining determined to iron out chinks in their armor. The bronze medal marks a strong finish to Indias campaign at the Womens U18 Asia Cup 2026, with the team showcasing its attacking quality, scoring 36 goals, defensive resilience and immense promise throughout the tournament. On the other hand, women's head coach Rani Rampal and captain Sweety Kujur reflected on their journey, calling the podium finish a stepping stone for the long international road ahead while remaining determined to iron out chinks in their armor. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It also announced a cash award of Rs 1 lakh for each player of the Indian U-18 Women's Hockey Team, who secured the bronze medal earlier in the day, along with Rs 50,000 for each member of the support staff. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Suthar Will Be A Match-winner In This Format, Believes Sundar
New Chandigarh: India all-rounder Washington Sundar believes debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar has all the abilities to become a match-winner in Test cricket after the youngster impressed on the second day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan at the PCA Stadium. Suthar enjoyed a memorable start to his Test career on Sunday, picking up 3-21 in 15.5 overs as India reduced Afghanistan to 113/5 after declaring their first innings at 564/8. Speaking before the start of play on Monday, Sundar said Suthar's impact did not come as a surprise to those within the Indian setup. I mean, we all know what he could actually bring into the table, especially in this format. And we've all seen him win games for all the teams that we've played, especially in this format. I guess it was just about time and it was going to come, Sundar told the broadcasters. The 25-year-old Rajasthan spinner struck on the fourth ball of his Test career, dismissing Abdul Malik before adding the wickets of Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Afsar Zazai to put Afghanistan under immense pressure. Sundar backed Suthar to make an even bigger impact for India in the years to come. And especially the way he turned up and bowled on his day one was amazing. And obviously, we could expect a lot more from him. And eventually, he will be a match winner for us, especially in this format, he added. Asked what stands out most about Suthar as a bowler, Sundar pointed to the effort and intensity he puts behind every delivery. I think the amount of body that goes into every single delivery of his is fabulous to watch. And I think that's something which is quite evident for all of us to see. And it's amazing to watch for all of us, I'd say, he said when asked which attribute of Suthar had impressed him the most. While Suthar shone with the ball, Sundar himself made a valuable contribution with the bat. The all-rounder remained unbeaten on 52, helping India stretch their advantage after centuries from captain Shubman Gill and KL Rahul, while Sai Sudharsan and Rishabh Pant also made significant contributions. Sundar, however, said his focus remains on fulfilling whatever role the team requires rather than settling into a particular batting position. Honestly, it's not like that for me. For me, whatever the team demands and wherever I need to play so that obviously the team benefits and we win a lot of games, that's more important to me. And that's what I've been looking to do also. Try and understand situations, obviously conditions in different test matches that we play and play the role that I need to play in that situation in that game, he stated. Sundar, however, said his focus remains on fulfilling whatever role the team requires rather than settling into a particular batting position. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'd say there was a lot of preparation that needed to be done mentally also. And once that mental shift happened, it's all about just execution and playing some quantity of balls and prep also. So, I think all of it panned out really well just before the test match and I'm really happy with the way it went for all of us, Sundar mentioned. Article Source: IANS
Marsh, Head, Sangha Miss Out With Injuries As Australia Name White-ball Squads For Bangladesh Tour
Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur: Australia will head into their white-ball tour of Bangladesh without several of their biggest names after injuries and availability issues forced late changes to the squads for the upcoming ODI and T20I series. The reigning ODI world champions have confirmed their squads for the six-match tour, with regular captain Mitchell Marsh, explosive opener Travis Head and leg-spinner Tanveer Sangha among the notable absentees from the 50-over leg of the series. Marsh has been ruled out of the three-match ODI series as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury, although he is expected to link up with the squad in Dhaka and resume preparations ahead of the T20I series, where he will captain Australia. Head, meanwhile, has been granted personal leave and will miss the entire Bangladesh tour, including both the ODI and T20I assignments. Australia have also suffered a blow with Sangha being ruled out after sustaining a hamstring injury during the recent tour of Pakistan. In response, selectors have drafted in off-spinner Todd Murphy and retained young batting prospect Ollie Peake and all-rounder Matt Short for the ODI squad. The trio effectively replace Marsh, Head and Sangha for the Bangladesh leg. Josh Inglis will continue as captain for the ODI series after leading Australia during their recent one-day campaign in Pakistan. The wicketkeeper-batter will oversee a side featuring a blend of established internationals and emerging talent. National selector Tony Dodemaide said the management had hoped Marsh would recover in time for the ODI fixtures but opted against rushing the all-rounder back into action. We were hopeful Mitch Marsh would be available for the Bangladesh ODI series however he is still returning to full fitness from an ankle injury. Mitch will join the group in Dhaka and begin preparations for the T20I Series, Dodemaide said. Travis was initially selected in the ODI and T20I legs of this Bangladesh tour but has subsequently been granted personal leave for both. We look forward to seeing him again for the top end Test Series against Bangladesh, he added. The absence of Marsh and Head could provide opportunities for 19-year-old Ollie Peake, who made his international debut in Pakistan and remains one of Australia's most highly-rated young batting talents. Short also earned an extended stay after an impressive series against Pakistan, contributing with both bat and ball. Murphy's inclusion presents the off-spinner with a chance to make his white-ball international debut. The Victorian has already represented Australia in Test cricket but has yet to feature in either ODIs or T20Is. Australia have also reinforced their pace stocks, with Xavier Bartlett and Ben Dwarshuis joining the ODI squad, while Riley Meredith is expected to return for the T20I series after missing the 50-over matches. Despite the absence of some of their biggest stars, Australia will view the Bangladesh tour as an important step in building squad depth ahead of a packed international calendar that includes major Test assignments against Bangladesh, South Africa and New Zealand later in the year. Schedule: 1st ODI: June 9 2nd ODI: June 11 3rd ODI: June 14 (All matches to be played at Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka) 1st T20I: June 17 2nd T20I: June 19 3rd T20I: June 21 (All matches to be played at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram) Australia squad for Bangladesh tour: (All matches to be played at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium in Chattogram) Also Read: Live Cricket Score T20Is: Mitchell Marsh(c), Xavier Bartlett, Cooper Connolly, Tim David, Joel Davies, Nathan Ellis, Cameron Green, Aaron Hardie, Josh Inglis, Spencer Johnson, Matthew Kuhnemann, Riley Meredith, Josh Philippe, Matthew Renshaw, Adam Zampa Article Source: IANS
The Untold Story of Team India Spin Coach Sairaj Bahutule
With the Test against Afghanistan at New Chandigarh, former India player Sairaj Bahutule began his new innings with Team India, this time not as a player but as India's new spin-bowling coach. India has never lacked for big-name spinners, and compared to them, former India leg-spinner Sairaj Bahutule was neither as prominent nor as well-known. The truth is that his name may not be popular with Gen Z as he was not in the news in recent years for some controversy or some juicy stories. He has consistently been involved in cricket and not only coached the IPL sides (this season Punjab Kings), but also previously served in the India Under-19, India A and domestic sides. Bahutule himself played two Tests and eight ODIs, taking five international wickets. Clearly, he wasn't very successful in international cricket and accordingly didnt get many opportunities. However, in a first-class career spanning nearly two decades, he took 630 wickets, scored over 6,000 runs, and took 197 wickets in List A cricket. He played in six Ranji Trophy finals (all for Mumbai), winning all of them. The most talked-about of these was the 2003-04 final, in which he scored 92 runs, lower down the order. Currently around 53, Bahutule's resume as a coach is comparatively much better. He retired from cricket and served as head coach of Vidarbha, Kerala, Gujarat, and Bengal. In the IPL, he was spin-bowling coach for Rajasthan Royals and then Punjab Kings. He was also associated with the BCCI and coached at the Center of Excellence in Bengaluru from 2021 to 2024. He was the bowling coach for the Indian team that won the ICC Under-19 World Cup in 2022 and was part of the support staff for the 2024 edition of the event also. He has also worked as a specialist bowling coach on several other assignments. In India, there aren't many coaches with such an active resume. Well, now he's got his biggest promotion, and what could be a bigger responsibility than joining Team India's support staff? This role with Team India will open the doors of international assignments for him. With the opportunity to play international cricket drying, Bahutule intended to remain involved with the game as a coach. Thats why while still playing cricket, when an opportunity came to coach the Vidarbha side, he grabbed it with both hands and announced his retirement. He became only the 9th bowler to take 400 wickets in the Ranji Trophy. Despite all this, Bahutule is disappointed that he never played in the IPL. He played List A cricket until 2010, T20 cricket until 2011, and first-class cricket until 2013, but franchises focused more on his age than his skill. Especially in the first two seasons of the IPL, he was one of the most successful spinners in India. Bhuutule holds a unique record that often goes unnoticed when his name is mentioned. He holds the India record for missing the most matches during his One Day International career. He played seven ODI between December 1997 and January 1998 but returned to Team India in November 2003 to play another one. During that period, Team India had played 196 consecutive ODI in which he was not part of the team. He failed to make a significant impact upon his return and was sidelined thereafter. In Indian cricket, the most discussed story of a cricketers recovery from a traumatic car accident gets connected with Rishabh Pant. The story of Sairaj Bahutules accident was no less tragic. In July 1990, the car accident of Vivek Singh, son of famous singers Jagjit and Chitra Singh, in which he died was in the headlines. Sairaj Bahutule, his close friend, was also with him in the car and was lucky to survive. He broke my femur, and had a major fracture on his right leg, and needed to have a steel rod inserted in the leg. He also slipped into a coma, and it was very, very tough. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The medical aid and familys support helped him, particularly his fathers support, who himself was a Ranji cricketer. His father Vasant, who played for Maharashtra, kept on motivating him to get back to playing cricket. The steel rod was removed a year after the accident and very soon he started playing for the senior Mumbai team as well as got picked for the India Under-19 squad against New Zealand.
WI look to level series in rainy Kingston
Hosts may think about bringing Shimron Hetmyer in, while Sri Lanka may keep their winning XI
Head out of Bangladesh tour, Marsh to miss ODIs; Murphy called up
Head rested from the entire Bangladesh tour while Australia hope Marsh can recover from his ankle injury in time for the T20 series
Abbottabad canter to National T20 Cup title with dominant all-round display
Chasing just 119, Shahzaib Khan and Kamran Ghulam made short work of the target
Molineux urges Australia to play with freedom in bid to reclaim title
The new captain has overcome her back injury and believes the team has 'all the ingredients' for a successful campaign
MPL T20 Scindia Cup: Akshat Raghuwanshi's explosive knock went in vain as Bhopal Leopards held their nerve in a thrilling run chase to register a three-wicket win over Rewa Jaguars in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday. Batting first after winning the toss, Rewa Jaguars rode on a sensational innings from Raghuwanshi to post a challenging 203/8 in their 20 overs. The right-hander took control from the outset and attacked the Bhopal bowlers all around the ground. Raghuwanshi hammered 85 runs off just 32 deliveries, striking nine sixes and six fours in a breathtaking display of power-hitting. His innings gave Rewa a flying start and put the opposition under pressure early in the contest. Although Rewa lost a few wickets in the middle overs, Prithviraj Singh Tomar played a steady knock of 35 off 32 balls to provide support. Sagar Solanki then added valuable late runs with a brisk 48 off 28 deliveries, helping the Jaguars cross the 200-run mark. For Bhopal Leopards, Himanshu Shinde stood out with the ball, returning figures of 2/21 from his four overs and helping prevent the total from becoming even bigger. In reply, Bhopal Leopards began confidently through openers Tanishq Yadav and Rahul Chandrol, who added 60 runs for the first wicket. Tanishq scored 29 off 17 balls before being dismissed, while Suraj Yadav's stay at the crease was brief as he managed only six runs. Chandrol kept the scoreboard moving with a fluent 44 off 21 deliveries and shared a useful partnership with captain Aniket Verma. Verma made an immediate impact with a quickfire 25 off just 10 balls before being dismissed by Sagar Solanki. The chase appeared to be slipping away when Chandrol departed soon after and Kunal Rai was dismissed for just one run, leaving the Leopards in trouble at 109/5. However, Himanshu Shinde and Pawan Nirwani launched a spirited recovery. The duo added crucial runs and kept Bhopal in the contest as the required run rate continued to climb. Shinde played a valuable knock of 37 off 24 balls before being dismissed by Ashwin Das at a crucial stage. Nirwani also contributed significantly with 29 off 22 deliveries, but his wicket left the Leopards needing 22 runs from the final two overs. However, Himanshu Shinde and Pawan Nirwani launched a spirited recovery. The duo added crucial runs and kept Bhopal in the contest as the required run rate continued to climb. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The last over began with a dot ball, increasing the tension inside the stadium. But Kamal quickly ended the contest in dramatic fashion, smashing a six off the second delivery of the over to seal a memorable three-wicket victory for Bhopal Leopards and spoil what had been a remarkable innings from Raghuwanshi. Article Source: IANS
Webster's maiden T20 ton ends Warwickshire's winless Blast run
Defending champions Somerset slip to fourth consecutive defeat despite posting 215
Dan Lawrence double-hundred puts Surrey in charge
Hampshire made to toil after putting home side in, Lawrence and Pope putting on 255 for fourth wicket
Allison, Benkenstein give Eagles wings before Middlesex implode
Noah Thain takes 3 for 11 as home side bundled out unceremoniously for fifth defeat in six
Munsey, Haynes lay platform as Notts continue upturn in form
Derbyshire fall short in chase as Mohammad Ali, Dillon Pennington share six wickets
'He's Broken Down The Door And Deserves His Place': AB De Villiers Backs Vaibhav's India Selection
Representing Rajasthan Royals: South African great AB de Villiers has thrown his weight behind teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's selection in India's T20I squad, saying the youngster has done enough to earn his opportunity at the highest level despite his tender age. Speaking at a private event, de Villiers said it would have been easy for selectors to overlook the 15-year-old and opt for a more experienced player, but felt Vaibhav's performances had made the decision impossible to ignore. It would have been easy to say that he's still too young and he's not ready and go for more experience. He's broken down the door, and he deserves his place in the India T20 team, so I'm happy for him, de Villiers said. Former Australia all-rounder Shane Watson also showered praise on the teenager during the same event, highlighting both his extraordinary power-hitting ability and fearless approach to batting. Asked which qualities he would borrow from current Indian cricketers, Watson immediately picked Vaibhav and pointed to the youngster's ability to clear boundaries in all directions. Number one, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, for the power that he's got all around the ground, not just straight or to the leg side. Not just straight or to the leg side, it's also over the offside, Watson said. The former Australian star was even more impressed by Vaibhav's mindset, describing fearlessness as one of the defining traits behind his rapid rise. And also to go with that, Vaibhav's fearless mindset as well. He's got no fear of getting out, which is something that I struggled with for a decent part of my career, he added. The former Australian star was even more impressed by Vaibhav's mindset, describing fearlessness as one of the defining traits behind his rapid rise. Also Read: Live Cricket Score His selection has made him one of the youngest players ever named in an Indian senior squad, and he is now in line to become India's youngest international cricketer if he makes his debut in the upcoming T20I series. Article Source: IANS
Glamorgan blast 41 off last 11 balls to upstage Livingstone fireworks
Cooke and van der Gugten pull off heist after Livingstone's eight sixes and three-for
Mills treasures Hunt as Sussex left-armers run through Kent
Sussex left-arm seamers share six wickets between them to keep knockout hopes alive
Duan Jansen claims four as Gloucestershire win thriller
Gloucestershire make it five wins from six group matches with three-run victory over Worcestershire
Rehan brings Yorkshire back to earth as Leicestershire finally win at home
England legspinner takes three as high-flying Yorkshire fluff chase of 148
Tamim Iqbal Elected BCB President, Vows Transparency And Revival Of Bangladesh Cricket
Shere Bangla National Stadium: Former Bangladesh captain Tamim Iqbal has been elected president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board, promising greater transparency, improved facilities and a restoration of Bangladesh cricket's reputation after a turbulent period for the sport in the country. The 36-year-old-the only candidate in Sunday's elections in Dhaka-will serve a four-year term, having already spent the last two months running the board's interim committee. Tamim, after being elected, insisted it was a huge responsibility rather than an personal honour. There is no extra feeling that I have become something really big. It is a massive responsibility. I have spoken about so many things about the cricket board for the last few years, so now I feel that this is the time when I have to prove myself to everyone. The elections were held at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, following the Bangladesh government's decision in April to dissolve the previous board run by Aminul Islam and hold fresh polls under the interim administration. In total, 23 directors were elected via physical and electronic voting under three categories and two representatives, appointed by the government, later joined the board to make it a 25-member governing body. Tamim was one of 12 directors who got elected in the Dhaka clubs category before being unanimously picked to serve as board president by the new council. One of the vice-presidents is Fahim Sinha and the second is yet to be named. Among the top priorities for Tamim is a modern High Performance Centre, which the new BCB president called his biggest aspiration. The High Performance Center is probably my biggest dream, Tamim said. I hope that I can fulfill this dream. We will need big support from the government. Initially the BCB can fund this center. We have asked the company that designed the existing centre for a re-design. We hope that we can start the center in Purbachal. As you can imagine, such a large-scale project requires a lot of money. We will definitely seek the government's support in that regard. I have met the country's finance minister about it, he was very positive about the project so now we have to apply to the government. The center would represent a massive upgrade on the existing High Performance Centre which is situated at the Shere Bangla National Stadium complex, but is considered limited. Tamim also vowed to restore the country's cricketing image following a turbulent period involving controversial decisions which led to the national team not participating in the T20 World Cup, and disputes involving the media. The players need to be respected as much as possible - not just current cricketers, but former cricketers too, Tamim said. Every stakeholder in Bangladesh cricket will be respected. It was maybe lacking in the BCB in the last one and a half years. We have to come together and fix this damaged reputation of Bangladesh cricket. The High Performance Center is probably my biggest dream, Tamim said. I hope that I can fulfill this dream. We will need big support from the government. Initially the BCB can fund this center. We have asked the company that designed the existing centre for a re-design. We hope that we can start the center in Purbachal. As you can imagine, such a large-scale project requires a lot of money. We will definitely seek the government's support in that regard. I have met the country's finance minister about it, he was very positive about the project so now we have to apply to the government. The center would represent a massive upgrade on the existing High Performance Centre which is situated at the Shere Bangla National Stadium complex, but is considered limited. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Tamim is widely regarded as one of Bangladesh's all-time greatest players, having played 391 international matches for his country and scored over 15,000 international runs across all three formats of the game. He captained the Bangladesh team 38 times and guided them to 21 wins, most notably an historic ODI series victory against South Africa in 2022. Tamim continued to play domestic cricket after retiring from international cricket at the beginning of 2025, before he suffered a heart attack during a Dhaka Premier League match which marked an end to his playing career. Article Source: IANS
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MCC 'frustrated' By Lord's Pitch After Wicket-filled England-New Zealand Test
The Marylebone Cricket Club: The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has admitted it was aturally frustrated by the Lord's pitch used in the opening Test between England and New Zealand after concerns over excessive seam movement and variable bounce dominated discussion throughout the match. The four-day contest ended with England winning by 115 runs against New Zealand. However, the pitch faced harsh criticism after 40 wickets fell in just 166 overs. Throughout the game, the pitch produced uneven bounce, with some deliveries staying unusually low while others rose sharply. This led to 24 dismissals that were either bowled or leg-before wicket. In a statement released after the Test, MCC chief executive Rob Lawson admitted that the playing surface did not meet expectations, despite significant investment to improve conditions at Lord's. We recognize that the pitch for this Test has shown more variable bounce than we would have wanted, Lawson said. We hold ourselves to the highest standards and are naturally frustrated when a surface falls short of those expectations. The comments come as the ICC prepares to review the pitch under its monitoring process. Match referee Andy Pycroft will decide if the surface provided a fair contest between bat and ball. If judged unsatisfactory, Marylebone Cricket Club could receive a demerit point. Lord's officials conducted extensive work on the square during the off-season, including relaying the outfield and introducing a steaming process to improve soil conditions beneath the pitches. However, Lawson pointed to difficult weather conditions before the Test. He explained that the combination of unusually hot weather in May, followed by rain before the match, created a number of challenges for head groundsman Karl McDermott and his team. However, we fully recognize the need to act quickly, Lawson added. England captain Ben Stokes also questioned whether such conditions were good for the future of Test cricket, even though his team won. I get asked questions all the time about the longevity of this format, Stokes said. The game is played over five days. Without the weather, it wouldn't have finished on day four. As someone who believes Test cricket should never disappear, that [early finish] is not ideal. While Stokes acknowledged that dealing with difficult conditions is part of Test cricket, he suggested that excessively tough batting surfaces could hurt the format's appeal. From a playing point of view, it's great to be challenged. We might have conditions that are completely different next week [at The Oval]. We will have to do the same thing: assess the conditions quickly and come up with the best chance of winning. It is tough for groundsmen. They are not trying to create tricky wickets, with 16 wickets falling in a day [as happened on day one]. But I get asked all the time about what needs to happen to save Test cricket. When you see extreme conditions like that, it's not going to help the game in the future. New Zealand captain Tom Latham stopped short of blaming the pitch for his team's loss. He pointed instead to missed chances in the field and England's effective use of the conditions. However, he agreed that the surface played a big role in the match finishing early. It's obviously a great week here at Lord's, and for it to play out like that is unfortunate, Latham said. We understand that the ball does move sideways, whether it be in the air or off the surface, but I think it was more the nature of the ball going up or down this week. Latham mentioned the dismissal of Jacob Bethell in England's second innings. A good-length delivery from Matt Henry barely bounced before hitting the stumps, demonstrating the unpredictability batters faced. We saw Bethell's dismissal, and we saw a lot of guys getting hit on the gloves today, which shows that there's not necessarily trust in the surface, he said. You'd expect guys to be caught on the crease when they can trust the lengths that the bowlers are bowling. Throughout the whole Test match, the dismissals were either bowled or lbw, which shows that guys are being caught on the crease. I think that's just the nature of not being able to trust a surface when balls do keep low and obviously go through the top. New Zealand captain Tom Latham stopped short of blaming the pitch for his team's loss. He pointed instead to missed chances in the field and England's effective use of the conditions. However, he agreed that the surface played a big role in the match finishing early. It's obviously a great week here at Lord's, and for it to play out like that is unfortunate, Latham said. We understand that the ball does move sideways, whether it be in the air or off the surface, but I think it was more the nature of the ball going up or down this week. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Former New Zealand fast bowler Simon Doull suggested that authorities should think about moving matches away from Lord's if conditions do not improve. Article Source: IANS
Tamim: Building a world-class High Performance Centre 'my biggest dream'
The newly elected BCB president also hopes to restore the reputation of Bangladesh cricket
'My Focus Was To Bowl In The Right Areas': Suthar Reflects On Dream Test Debut
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar said sticking to his strengths and relentlessly bowling in the right areas helped him make an immediate impact in Test cricket after his three-wicket haul put India in complete control of the one-off Test against Afghanistan at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium here on Sunday. Suthar returned figures of 3-21 in 15.5 overs as India reduced Afghanistan to 113/5 at stumps on Day Two after declaring their first innings at a commanding 564/8. The visitors still trail by 451 runs, with the young spinner emerging as the standout performer on his first day in Test cricket. Speaking after the day's play, Suthar said his plan was straightforward: make the most of the assistance available from the surface by consistently bowling in the right areas. My focus during the spell seemed to be on bowling in the right areas and backing my strengths. The wicket was helping, so my effort was to bowl in the right areas and hit the right length as consistently as possible, Suthar said. Asked about the strengths that helped him succeed, Suthar pointed to his ability to generate turn and his emphasis on consistency. The focus was simple. The wicket was offering some help and my strength is getting the ball to turn. So my aim was to extract as much turn as possible because the pitch was assisting. At the same time, I wanted to keep bowling in good areas and hit the ideal length consistently, because that was where the help was coming from. That was my entire focus, he explained. The spinner also acknowledged the role played by India captain Shubman Gill, with whom he has shared a dressing room in the IPL, saying the skipper's understanding of his game proved valuable. The focus was simple. The wicket was offering some help and my strength is getting the ball to turn. So my aim was to extract as much turn as possible because the pitch was assisting. At the same time, I wanted to keep bowling in good areas and hit the ideal length consistently, because that was where the help was coming from. That was my entire focus, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, India posted 564/8 declared, powered by centuries from Shubman Gill and KL Rahul before Washington Sundar's unbeaten 52 provided the finishing touches. Suthar then struck key blows, dismissing Abdul Malik, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Afsar Zazai, to leave Afghanistan staring at a follow-on threat heading into Day Three. Article Source: IANS
Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs: Shivam Dube-led ARCS Andheri let a winning position slip away as Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburbs staged a sensational late comeback to clinch a seven-run victory in the T20 Mumbai League 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. Chasing 172, Andheri were cruising for large parts of the innings before a dramatic collapse in the final four overs saw Ankur Singh's brilliant spell of 4/39 turn the match on its head. Andheri endured an early setback with Divyaansh Sksena (10) and Musheer Khan (1) departing cheaply, leaving the side reeling at 18/2. Impact Player Ayush Jethwa and the in-form Prasad Pawar rebuilt the innings with a crucial 58-run partnership for the third wicket after the early setbacks. While Jethwa contributed a fluent 36, Pawar once again underlined his consistency, bringing up his third half-century of the season with a composed 54 off 39 deliveries that included three fours and two sixes. The Tigers, however, fought back through Naman Pushpak, who broke the stand by removing Jethwa, before Shams Mulani dismissed Pragnesh Kanpillewar (15) to apply further pressure. Andheri regained control when skipper Dube launched a counterattack, hammering 25 off just 13 balls with three towering sixes to leave his side firmly in command of the chase. However, Dubes dismissal proved to be the turning point. Ankur struck repeatedly at the death as Andheri lost five wickets in the final three overs, collapsing from a winning position and handing the Tigers a dramatic victory. Earlier, Aakash Tigers MWS recovered from an early setback through a valuable 44-run partnership between Jay Gokul Bista and Varun Lavande for the second wicket. Bista chipped in with 35. Ajit Yadav, later, anchored the innings with a fluent 55, striking five fours and three sixes. The Tigers looked set for a bigger total at one stage, but regular wickets in the latter half of the innings prevented them from capitalising on the platform, eventually finishing on 171/6. For Andheri, Ajay Mishra was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 2/18, while Dube chipped in with 1/31. The Tigers looked set for a bigger total at one stage, but regular wickets in the latter half of the innings prevented them from capitalising on the platform, eventually finishing on 171/6. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Aakash Tigers MWS 171/6 in 20 overs (Ajit Yadav 55, Jay Bista 35; Ajay Mishra 2/18) beat ARCS Andheri 164 all out in 20 overs (Prasad Pawar 54, Ayush Jethwa 36; Ankur Singh 4/39) by seven runs Article Source: IANS
Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh: A dominant all-round performance helped Gwalior Cheetahs register a convincing 51-run victory over Malwa Stallions in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 at the Daly College Ground in Indore on Saturday. Batting first after being put in, Gwalior Cheetahs posted a competitive 190/7 in 20 overs, thanks largely to a brilliant knock from captain Rajat Patidar, who smashed his first fifty in Madhya Pradesh League eventually hit 65 off just 30 balls, including six fours and four sixes. Rajat Patidar's aggressive innings provided the momentum the Cheetahs needed in the middle overs. Opener Parth Chaudhary contributed a valuable 38 off 34 deliveries, while Mangesh Yadav remained unbeaten on 33 off 17 balls, ensuring a strong finish. The Stallions bowlers struggled to contain the flow of runs despite regular breakthroughs. Vineet Rawat was the pick of the bowlers, claiming four wickets, while Harshvardhan Singh chipped in with three scalps. Chasing 191 for victory, Malwa Stallions never managed to build substantial partnerships and were bowled out for 139 in 17.1 overs. Rakesh Thakur top-scored with 33 off 26 balls, while Ansh Yadav played a brisk knock of 30 from 19 deliveries. However, the rest of the batting line-up failed to capitalize as wickets fell at regular intervals. The Gwalior bowling attack shared the spoils effectively. Ishan Afridi and Saumy Pandey starred with three wickets each, putting the Stallions under constant pressure. Akash Raghuwanshi and Mangesh Yadav also chipped in with crucial breakthroughs as the Cheetahs wrapped up the innings with nearly three overs to spare. For his match-winning innings that laid the foundation for Gwalior's imposing total, Rajat Patidar (who has played 4 international matches for India) was named Player of the Match. Chambal Ghariyals vs Royal Nimar Eagles Fans at the Holkar Stadium were treated to another gripping encounter in the Aditya Birla Group Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026, with Chambal Ghariyals prevailing over Royal Nimar Eagles by four wickets. Bowling first, the Chambal Ghariyals pacers once again delivered a brilliant performance against Royal Nimar Eagles, setting the tone from the very start of the match at the Holkar Stadium in Indore. The Eagles endured a shaky start, losing opener Himanshu Mantri in just the second over. The wicketkeeper-batter miscued a short delivery from Avesh Khan and was caught behind for 4 off 6 balls. From there on, the Ghariyals kept striking at regular intervals and never allowed the Eagles to build any significant partnerships. Kanishk Dubey, Anand Bais and Abhishek Mavi all got starts but failed to convert them into substantial scores. Dubey scored 23 off 17 balls, Bais made 28 off 22, while Mavi chipped in with a quick 28 off 15 deliveries. As a result, Royal Nimar Eagles were restricted to 145/9 in their 20 overs. Akshay Singh was impressive with the ball, claiming 2 wickets for 23 runs in his four overs. Avesh Khan chipped in with 1/28, while Tripuresh Singh also picked up two wickets, finishing with figures of 2/30. However, it was Mayur Singh Patel who did the most damage to the Eagles middle order, returning with outstanding figures of 3/28 in his four-over spell. In reply, openers Ankush Singh and Apurve Dwivedi provided a solid start to the chase, adding 40 runs for the first wicket. However, Royal Nimar Eagles fought back strongly and struck twice in quick succession to put the brakes on the scoring. With the score at 62/2, captain Shubham Sharma joined Gautam Raghuwanshi in the middle, and the duo steadied the innings with a crucial 41-run partnership. Just when Chambal Ghariyals looked to be cruising, the Eagles clawed their way back into the contest with wickets at regular intervals, reducing the Ghariyals to a tricky 132/6. In reply, openers Ankush Singh and Apurve Dwivedi provided a solid start to the chase, adding 40 runs for the first wicket. However, Royal Nimar Eagles fought back strongly and struck twice in quick succession to put the brakes on the scoring. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For Royal Nimar Eagles, Parush Mandal was the standout performer with the ball, claiming 3 wickets for 36 runs in his four overs, while Kumar Kartikeya chipped in with 2/24 from his four-over spell. Article Source: IANS
'Highly Encouraging Debut': Gavaskar Lauds Suthar After Three-wicket Haul Against Afghanistan
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Batting great Sunil Gavaskar heaped praise on debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar after the youngster played a key role in putting India firmly in control of the one-off Test against Afghanistan at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium here on Sunday. Gavaskar was particularly impressed by Suthar's all-round contribution, noting that the spinner had looked assured with both bat and ball. Manav Suthar has certainly made an impressive start to his Test career. What stood out was not just his bowling, but also the confidence he showed with the bat, particularly in the way he used his feet and looked comfortable at the crease, Gavaskar told Jio Hotstar. With the ball, he was extremely accurate and consistently put the batters under pressure. There was some assistance available from the surface, which he utilised well, but the real test for any spinner comes on flatter pitches where greater variety and adaptability are required, he added. The former India captain, however, felt Suthar had shown enough promise to suggest he could develop into a strong option in the longer format. Having said that, this was a highly encouraging debut and he has shown the attributes to be a strong contender at the Test level going forward, he noted. Suthar struck crucial blows in Afghanistan's innings, removing Abdul Malik, Rahmanullah Gurbaz and Afsar Zazai, while maintaining excellent control and extracting assistance from the surface. Gavaskar also praised fast bowler Prasidh Krishna, who claimed 2-27 and accounted for Sediqullah Atal and Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. Prasidh Krishna showed excellent awareness and adaptability in the way he approached his spell. As a fast bowler, the natural instinct is often to operate on a shorter length and use bounce to trouble batters, but he recognised the conditions and adjusted accordingly, Gavaskar said. By pitching the ball much fuller, he was able to generate movement back into the left-handers and create genuine wicket-taking opportunities. Both his wickets came as a result of that adjustment, one through a clean-bowled dismissal and the other via LBW. Prasidh Krishna showed excellent awareness and adaptability in the way he approached his spell. As a fast bowler, the natural instinct is often to operate on a shorter length and use bounce to trouble batters, but he recognised the conditions and adjusted accordingly, Gavaskar said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, India were powered by centuries from captain Shubman Gill and KL Rahul before Washington Sundar's unbeaten 52 helped the hosts declare at 564/8, setting up a dominant position in the match. Article Source: IANS
APL Is Andhra Pradesh's Cricket Festival, Will Boost Rural Talent: ACA President Kesineni Sivanadh
Andhra Pradesh Education Minister Nara: Andhra Cricket Association (ACA) President and TDP MP Kesineni Sivanadh on Sunday announced that the Andhra Premier League (APL) will begin on June 9 in Visakhapatnam, describing the tournament as the cricket festival of Andhra and a key platform for nurturing talent from rural and economically weaker backgrounds. Addressing the media ahead of the tournament, Sivanadh said the ACA was proud to bring back the league after the successful conduct of its previous edition. We are proud to announce the cricket festival of Andhra. The Andhra Premier League will start from June 9 in Visakhapatnam. Last year we successfully conducted the APL, and we are excited to host it again this year, Sivanadh said. The ACA chief revealed that this year's tournament will be staged across three venues, Visakhapatnam, Kadapa and Mangalagiri in the Amaravati capital region. The present APL is being conducted at three destinations. Matches will be played in Visakhapatnam, Kadapa and Mangalagiri. Each venue will host six days of matches and the final will be conducted in Mangalagiri, he said. Sivanadh added that Andhra Pradesh Education Minister Nara Lokesh has been invited to attend the final as the chief guest. We are inviting our Honourable Education Minister Nara Lokesh ji as the chief guest for the final match at Mangalagiri. We hope this festival will bring cheers to cricket lovers across Andhra Pradesh, he said. Highlighting the league's role in talent development, Sivanadh urged media organisations to support and promote the tournament. I urge the media to promote the APL because a lot of rural cricketers and players from very poor communities are benefiting through this league. With the support of the media, we can make the APL an even bigger success, he said. Highlighting the league's role in talent development, Sivanadh urged media organisations to support and promote the tournament. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As in the previous year, seven teams will participate. We have not added any new team. Each team will play eight matches during the tournament. I congratulate all the teams and wish them success in making this year's APL a grand event, Sivanadh added. Article Source: IANS
Salman Agha To Replace Shan Masood As Pakistan Test Captain: Report
Pakistan Cricket Board: Pakistan cricket is all set to see another change in Test captaincy with Salman Agha replacing Shan Masood who has a disappointing stint in the last three years. Masood has lost 12 of the 16 Tests he has captained since the tour of Australia in December 2023 with fourth straight loss to Bangladesh last month. Masood is the only captain from the top nine countries excluding Bangladesh, Ireland and Afghanistan losing his first 12 Tests in the 150-year history of the longer format, excluding Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. Sources told Masood has requested the Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi to not sack him for the sake of consistency but Naqvi has had enough and rues his decision to keep Masood despite Pakistan finishing ninth and last in the third cycle of World Test Championship last year. Naqvi has had enough of Masood and now he and his advisers believe that Agha is the best candidate to replace Masood with two tough Tests coming in the West Indies and three more in England in the next few months, Telecomasia quoted as saying. Pakistan plays two Tests in Trinidad starting from July 25 before they tour England where the first Test is in Leeds from August 19. Masood also failed in the two-Test series with just one half century in four innings, which also makes his position in the squad untenable. The coaching staff is set to continue with former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed as head coach and Umar Gul as bowling coach. There may be a new batting coach for the Caribbean tour. PCB is also considering another former captain Mohammad Hafeez as director international cricket, a department important to get better cricket schedule and to monitor the progress of players. The coaching staff is set to continue with former skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed as head coach and Umar Gul as bowling coach. There may be a new batting coach for the Caribbean tour. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hafeez told Telecomasia that he has yet to get any offer but will consider if there is any offer. Article Source: IANS
Jay Shah Wishes Teams Ahead Of Biggest-ever Women's T20 World Cup
T20 World Cup Global Qualifier: ICC chairman Jay Shah extended his best wishes to all 12 participating teams ahead of the start of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026, describing the tournament as the biggest edition in the event's history. Taking to X ahead of the tournament opener on June 12, Shah highlighted the scale of the competition, which will be hosted across England and Wales and feature a record 12 teams for the first time. Wishing all 12 teams the very best for the biggest ICC Women's @T20WorldCup ever! With iconic venues across England and Wales set to experience record-breaking attendance and the widest-ever global broadcast for a women's event, we're set for an unforgettable tournament which brings together millions of fans and the best athletes in the world, Shah posted. The 10th edition of the Women's T20 World Cup represents an important step forward for women's cricket. This marks the event's return to England for the first time since the inaugural tournament in 2009. A total of 33 matches will be played at seven venues, and the event is expected to draw record crowds and global viewers. Hosts England aim to repeat their success from the first Women's T20 World Cup, which they won in 2009 under former captain Charlotte Edwards, who is now the head coach. England is also boosted by their memorable Women's ODI World Cup victory at home in 2017. Defending champions New Zealand Women's Cricket Team come in as the title holders after winning their first Women's T20 World Cup in the UAE in 2024. The White Ferns are only the fourth country to win the trophy since the tournament started. While England, New Zealand, and the West Indies Women's Cricket Team have each claimed the title once, Australia has dominated the competition's history with six championships. This tournament will include a record 12 teams. England has qualified automatically as hosts, while Australia, India, New Zealand, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and the West Indies secured direct entry based on ICC rankings. Bangladesh, Ireland, Scotland, and the Netherlands qualified through the ICC Women's T20 World Cup Global Qualifier. Among the newcomers, the Netherlands Women's Cricket Team will make their Women's T20 World Cup debut, highlighting the expanding reach of women's cricket across Europe. The teams are divided into two groups. Group A includes Australia, Bangladesh, India, Netherlands, Pakistan, and South Africa. Group B features England, Ireland, New Zealand, Scotland, Sri Lanka, and West Indies. Each team will play five matches in the group stage, with the top two from each group moving on to the semi-finals. The tournament will take place at some of England's most famous cricket venues, such as Old Trafford, Headingley, Edgbaston, County Ground Bristol, Utilita Bowl, The Oval, and Lord's. Each team will play five matches in the group stage, with the top two from each group moving on to the semi-finals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The semi-finals will be held at The Oval on June 30 and July 2, with the final set for July 5 at Lord's, the spiritual home of cricket. Article Source: IANS
Gus Atkinson Five-for Guides England To 115-run Win Against New Zealand In 1st Test
After New Zealand: Fast bowler Gus Atkinson continued his love affair with Lord's, taking yet another five-wicket haul in the second innings as England registered a dominant 115-run win against New Zealand in the first match of the three-match series at the iconic stadium. Chasing a challenging target of 254, New Zealand resumed on 55/5 on the third day and never seriously threatened the chase despite improved batting conditions compared to the opening days of the match. England struck early on Day 4 when Josh Tongue removed Tom Blundell with a superb delivery, leaving the visitors further behind in the contest. After New Zealand slipped to 58/6, Glenn Phillips led the resistance with a fighting knock of 78, the highest score of the match. He shared a valuable 53-run partnership with Devon Conway, who contributed 41 runs and looked comfortable at the crease. The stand was broken by England captain Ben Stokes, who dismissed Conway to put the hosts back in control. Atkinson then wrapped up the innings with a decisive spell. He dismissed Nathan Smith caught behind, had Kyle Jamieson chip a catch to short midwicket, and bowled Matt Henry to finish with another five-wicket haul. Phillips was left stranded at the non-striker's end as New Zealand were bowled out for 138. Earlier, New Zealand had made the most of favourable bowling conditions in the first innings, dismissing England for 140, with Kyle Jamieson claiming five wickets. England responded strongly with the ball, bundling New Zealand out for 113 to secure a 27-run first-innings lead. Ollie Robinson, making his return to the side, starred with a five-wicket haul as the visitors struggled against disciplined bowling. The hosts then strengthened their position by posting 226 in the second innings. Debutant Emilio Gay impressed with a well-made 57, helping England set New Zealand a target of 254. England responded strongly with the ball, bundling New Zealand out for 113 to secure a 27-run first-innings lead. Ollie Robinson, making his return to the side, starred with a five-wicket haul as the visitors struggled against disciplined bowling. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: England 140 & 226 ( Emilio Gay 57, Nathan Smith 6-70) beat New Zealand 113 & 138 ( Glenn Phillips 44, Atkinson 5-30) by 115 runs. Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Is Going To Have A Good Time As Well: Rohit Sharma Backs New India T20I Captain
Nuvama Pri T20 Mumbai League: Batting icon Rohit Sharma has backed newly-appointed India T20I captain Shreyas Iyer to thrive in his new role, while hailing the T20 Mumbai League as an important platform for nurturing the next generation of cricketers. Rohit's remarks came on a night when 21,708 fans packed the Wankhede Stadium for a star-studded Nuvama Pri T20 Mumbai League 2026 clash between SOBO Mumbai Falcons and Triumph Knights Mumbai North East, featuring Iyer and Suryakumar Yadav. Iyer marked his recent elevation as India's T20I captain with a match-winning 61 off 36 balls, guiding the Falcons to a five-wicket victory. The Face of the League, Rohit said Mumbai cricket's demanding environment helps prepare players for leadership roles at the highest level. Playing in Mumbai teaches you a lot of things. And if you ask anyone who has captained India or Mumbai, they'll tell you the same thing. Because nothing comes easy here, he said. You have to really earn it. So, captaincy is also something that you have to earn and earn the respect of people around you. And that is something that all these guys have. The World Cup-winning India captain pointed to the journeys of Mumbai cricketers who have gone on to lead the national side, citing both Suryakumar Yadav and Shreyas Iyer as examples of resilience and leadership. You've seen Surya who led India to the World Cup final. Look, he made his India debut at 31, if I'm not wrong. Which means that he never gave up. He always wanted to be in the fight. And when it came, he wanted to grab it with both hands. And he did it. Now, Shreyas has been announced as a T20 captain. And I'm sure looking at how he has captained in the last few years for his franchise in Mumbai and all of that, he's going to have a good time as well. Rohit also underlined the importance of the T20 Mumbai League in providing opportunities for emerging cricketers and strengthening Mumbai's cricketing ecosystem. We want the platform for all the players to come out and show their talent. And this is the perfect platform for a lot of these guys who are playing and taking part in it. Last year was a huge success, I saw it. A lot of people turned up as well, he said. Now, Shreyas has been announced as a T20 captain. And I'm sure looking at how he has captained in the last few years for his franchise in Mumbai and all of that, he's going to have a good time as well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rohit also credited Mumbai Cricket Association President Ajinkya Naik and his team for successfully staging the tournament and ensuring high standards despite the challenges of hosting it immediately after the IPL season. Huge credit to Ajinkya [Naik] and his team for putting up this show and a wonderful platform for everyone. And what I've been hearing from everyone is that there hasn't been any compromise. It's never easy, especially after the IPL. I know how tough it is, not just for the players but also not to forget the groundsmen who have been here day in, day out. That shows the people involved in the T20 Mumbai League are quite passionate as well. Article Source: IANS
Gus Atkinson Stars at Lords as England Crush New Zealand to Take 1-0 Test Series Lead
Gus Atkinson's love-affair with Lord's continued Sunday as England overwhelmed New Zealand by 115 runs to win the first Test. New Zealand, set 254 to win, were dismissed for 138 before lunch on the fourth day in what was the 150th Test staged at Lord's -- the most at any ground. Surrey paceman Atkinson took 5-30 -- his fourth five-wicket innings haul in three Tests at Lord's -- as England went 1-0 up in a three-match series. But fellow seamer Ollie Robinson was named player-of-the-match after marking his first Test in over two years with seven wickets in the match -- including a Test-best haul of 5-39, featuring a rare triple-wicket maiden, in New Zealand's meagre first-innings 113. England's success also owed much to debutant opener Emilo Gay's 57 in their second-innings 226. On Sunday, Devon Conway (41) and Glenn Phillips (44 not out) kept England at bay with a seventh-wicket partnership of 53 -- New Zealand's highest of a low-scoring match. England still only needed 19 overs to take the five wickets they required for victory as their first Test since a woeful 4-1 Ashes series loss in Australia, ended in a comprehensive success. New Zealand's overnight 55-5 became 58-6 when Tom Blundell was lbw to fast bowler Josh Tongue. Left-handed opener Conway, who resumed on 19 not out, slashed Tongue through gully for four. He should have been out next ball for 24 when Harry Brook dropped a two-handed chance above his head at second slip after the batsman tried to uppercut Tongue. New batsman Phillips drilled Robinson through extra-cover for four on another overcast morning that favoured the fast bowlers, with stroke-play far from easy on a pitch of inconsistent bounce. The aggressive Phillips thrashed a slightly wide Robinson delivery through the covers for four. England captain Ben Stokes brought himself on but Phillips clipped his fifth ball through midwicket for four to bring up New Zealand's hundred. Stokes did break through when he squared up Conway with a good-length ball that took the edge, Jacob Bethell holding a fine low catch in the gully to end a gritty 91-ball innings. New Zealand's 111-7 was transformed into 116-8 when Atkinson had Nathan Smith caught behind. And the Black Caps were nine wickets down and on the brink of defeat when Kyle Jamieson, who made 38 not out in the first innings, fell for six after clipping Atkinson to midwicket Phillips defiantly pulled Tongue for six - one of eight boundaries in 52 balls faced. But there was nothing he could do when Atkinson bowled last man Matt Henry for a duck to finish with innings figure of 5-30 in 11.3 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The series now moves across London to the Oval, where the second Test starts on June 17.
Atkinson five-for seals England win on up-and-down Lord's pitch
The pitch made batting so treacherous that a wicket fell every 24.9 balls, the quickest rate in a Test in England since 1907
Sarfaraz and Hesson to oversee red and white-ball camps in Lahore
Babar is one of 22 players part of the red-ball camp which will run until July 10, while the 27-player white-ball camp will last until September 18
One-off Test: Batters, Suthar Shine As Afghanistan Trail India By 451 Runs At Stumps (Ld)
Captain Shubman Gill: India continued their dominance in the one-off Test against Afghanistan - declaring at 564/8 in 126 overs and then reduced the visitors to 113/5 at stumps on day twos play. For India, debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar emerged as the standout performer to pick 3-21 in 15.5 overs, as Afghanistan still trail by 451 runs. On a scorching Sunday, Indias innings was built on skipper and local lad Shubman Gills authoritative 126, KL Rahuls century, Sai Sudharsans 81 and Rishabh Pants 81 earlier in the day. But the lower-order contributions ensured the hosts had a healthy run-rate of 4.44 and also placed the innings among Indias fourth fastest 500-plus totals in Test history. The hosts declared after Washington Sundar hit a composed 52 not out, his sixth Test fifty, while Suthar hit two sixes and as many fours to get India past 500 and Mohammed Siraj produced an entertaining cameo of 22 off 12 balls. Captain Shubman Gill declared soon after Sundar reached his fifty, giving his bowlers two full sessions to put Afghanistan under the pump. Afghanistans reply faltered almost immediately. Abdul Malik attempted to counterattack but was undone by Suthars sharp turn on a sweep, he gave a top-edge to backward square leg. After the tea break was over, Prasidh Krishna produced a lovely nip-backer to uproot Sediqullah Atals stumps. Suthar, operating with remarkable control and brisk pace, bowled maiden after maiden to keep the batters on a lid. His accuracy was rewarded again when Rahmanullah Gurbaz nicked to slip, where sharp catch was taken. Rahmat Shah provided the only semblance of stability for Afghanistan, reaching 43 not out by stumps and becoming the first Afghanistan player to cross 1000 Test runs. Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav also kept the pressure on, ensuring Afghanistan never found rhythm. His 36-run partnership with Hashmatullah Shahidi briefly steadied the innings. But Prasidh struck again to trap Shahidi lbw, leaving the visitors in deeper trouble. Afsar Zazais resistance ended in dramatic fashion as he closed the bat face too early and offered a simple return catch to Suthar, who ended his first day of bowling in Test cricket on a high. Afghanistan, meanwhile, now face a daunting task to avoid follow-on. In the morning, Gill, resuming from overnight score of 103 not out with authority, extended his innings to a commanding 126 off 177 balls before falling to Mohammad Saleem Safi, who bowled a fiery and disciplined spell with pace and movement with the second new ball. Pant, who looked equally assured, mixed caution with aggression to reach 81 off 121 balls, apart from sharing a 169-run stand with Gill. But his dismissal to skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, who also got his first Test wicket, mirrored Sai Sudharsans fate from the previous day - both left-handers falling short of centuries after hitting promising fifties. India added 107 runs in the morning session, but Afghanistan could have had more success had they been sharper with their decision making in taking reviews. Gill survived a close lbw shout and Pant edged one behind - both decisions went unchallenged despite clear evidence of them being out later. Keeper Afsar Zazai endured a difficult time, unable to convince Shahidi to take the crucial DRS calls that might have changed the complexion of the innings. Safi was the standout bowler, claiming Gill and Dhruv Jurel in quick succession. Jurel, who looked positive with four boundaries in his 19 off 20 balls, misjudged a nip-backer and was castled. Shahidi then joined the wicket-taking act when he lured Pant into a mistimed lofted stroke and mid-off easily took the catch. Despite going off the steam in the later half, India remain firmly ahead as Sundar and Suthar held firm till lunch by hitting two boundaries each and ensuring no further damage was caused. After lunch, Sundar, Suthar and Siraj hit boundaries well, despite Safi picking 6-140, to ensure India had a healthy total on board before the declaration arrived at 1:33pm. Jurel, who looked positive with four boundaries in his 19 off 20 balls, misjudged a nip-backer and was castled. Shahidi then joined the wicket-taking act when he lured Pant into a mistimed lofted stroke and mid-off easily took the catch. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140, Hashmatullah Shahidi 1-91) trail Afghanistan 113/5 in 39.5 overs (Rahmat Shah 43 not out, Hashmatullah Shahidi 29; Manav Suthar 3-21, Prasidh Krishna 2-27) by 451 runs Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Suthar Picks 3-21 As Afghanistan Trail India By 451 Runs At Stumps
Captain Shubman Gill: India continued their dominance in the one-off Test against Afghanistan - declaring at 564/8 in 126 overs and then reduced the visitors to 113/5 at stumps on day twos play. For India, debutant left-arm spinner Manav Suthar emerged as the standout performer to pick 3-21 in 15.5 overs, as Afghanistan still trail by 451 runs. The hosts had earlier declared after Washington Sundar hit a composed 52 not out, his sixth Test fifty, and Mohammed Siraj produced an entertaining cameo of 22 off 12 balls. Captain Shubman Gill declared soon after Sundar reached his fifty, giving his bowlers two full sessions to put Afghanistan under the pump. Afghanistans reply faltered almost immediately. Abdul Malik attempted to counterattack but was undone by Suthars sharp turn on a sweep, he gave a top-edge to backward square leg. After the tea break was over, Prasidh Krishna produced a lovely nip-backer to uproot Sediqullah Atals stumps. Suthar, operating with remarkable control and brisk pace, bowled maiden after maiden to keep the batters on a lid. His accuracy was rewarded again when Rahmanullah Gurbaz nicked to slip, where a sharp catch was taken. Rahmat Shah provided the only semblance of stability for Afghanistan, reaching 43 not out by stumps and becoming the first Afghanistan player to cross 1000 Test runs. Washington Sundar and Kuldeep Yadav also kept the pressure on, ensuring Afghanistan never found rhythm. Suthar, operating with remarkable control and brisk pace, bowled maiden after maiden to keep the batters on a lid. His accuracy was rewarded again when Rahmanullah Gurbaz nicked to slip, where a sharp catch was taken. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140, Hashmatullah Shahidi 1-91) trail Afghanistan 113/5 in 39.5 overs (Rahmat Shah 43 not out, Hashmatullah Shahidi 29; Manav Suthar 3-21, Prasidh Krishna 2-27) by 451 runs Article Source: IANS
He Didnt Seem To Have Too Much Gas Left In The Tank: Karim On Pants Dismissal
New Delhi: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim believes Rishabh Pant's dismissal on day two of the one-off Test against Afghanistan was more a result of fatigue and dehydration than poor shot selection, after the left-hander's impressive innings ended on 81. Pant, who was removed as India's vice-captain ahead of the series with the role being handed to KL Rahul, appeared set for a century after batting fluently alongside skipper Shubman Gill. However, the wicketkeeper-batter fell for 81 off 121 balls when he miscued an attacking stroke and was caught at mid-off off Afghanistan captain Hashmatullah Shahidi. Karim believes that Pant looked in complete control for most of his innings and was surprised to see him depart in that fashion. I was expecting a big knock from Rishabh Pant because he seemed to be in control, despite that outside edge for which no review was taken, Karim told Jio Hotstar. The former national selector felt Pant's physical condition in the extreme heat may have contributed to the dismissal. However, I felt that an over before his dismissal, he was beginning to lose energy. He didn't seem to have too much gas left in the tank. He required some treatment from the physio, and I think he was getting dehydrated. So perhaps it was a lapse in concentration more than anything else, he added. Karim also pointed out that the shot was uncharacteristic of Pant, who is generally known for calculated aggression despite his attacking reputation. Rarely do you see Rishabh Pant go for a big shot when both long-on and long-off are stationed on the boundary. He was simply trying to accelerate but didn't get the right ball to play that shot, he said. Karim also pointed out that the shot was uncharacteristic of Pant, who is generally known for calculated aggression despite his attacking reputation. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pant's innings played a key role in India's commanding first-innings total of 564/8 declared, helping the hosts tighten their grip on the match despite falling 19 runs short of what would have been his seventh Test century. Article Source: IANS
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: The inaugural TG20 Player Auction got underway at Princess Convention Centre, Ramoji Film City, with a player pool comprising over 1,300 HCA-registered cricketers, franchises began assembling their squads by securing some of the states finest cricketing talent across the Icon, A+ and A categories. The auction brought together international stars, accomplished domestic performers and promising district cricketers, reflecting TG20s vision of creating a world-class platform for Telangana talent. India batter Tilak Varma emerged as the highest-valued player of the auction, joining Medak Falcons for Rs 33 Lakhs in the Icon Category. Meanwhile, Mohammed Siraj was picked by Warangal Warriors for Rs 14 Lakhs and CV Milind became the most expensive uncapped player, with Anvita Khammam Aces securing him for Rs 17 Lakhs. Other notable Icon category signings included Ravi Kiran (Palamuru Strikers), T. Raviteja (Medak Falcons), Tanay Thyagarajan (Pranava Ranga Reddy Risers), Rahul Buddhi (Anurag Nalgonda Knights), Tanmay Agarwal (Karimnagar Diamonds) and Rohit Rayudu (Palamuru Strikers). In an A+ Category, Aman Rao (Warangal Warriors), Pragnay Reddy (Palamuru Strikers), Ajay Dev Goud (Hyderabad e-Champions), Nitin Sai Yadav, Aaron George and Rakshann Readdi were among the marquee acquisitions as franchises strengthened their core squads. In an A Category, emerging talents also attracted strong bidding, with Arfaz Ahmed and Abhirath Reddy becoming the joint-highest buys in the category at Rs 11 Lakhs each. Chandan Sahani (Karimnagar Diamonds), Pranav Varma (Hyderabad e-Champions) and Hima Teja (Anvita Khammam Aces) were among the other prominent signings. In an A+ Category, Aman Rao (Warangal Warriors), Pragnay Reddy (Palamuru Strikers), Ajay Dev Goud (Hyderabad e-Champions), Nitin Sai Yadav, Aaron George and Rakshann Readdi were among the marquee acquisitions as franchises strengthened their core squads. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The inaugural edition of TG20 will commence on June 21 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, Uppal, featuring 8 franchises competing in 32 matches over 21 action-packed days. Article Source: IANS
The Afghan Boys Showed A Lot Of Heart: Gavaskar Lauds Visitors Fightback Despite Indias 564
Decision Review System: India's former captain Sunil Gavaskar praised Afghanistan's fighting spirit after the visitors mounted a spirited comeback with the second new ball on day two of the one-off Test, despite India eventually declaring their first innings at a commanding 564/8. Resuming the day at 368/3, India looked set for an even bigger total after skipper Shubman Gill extended his overnight century to 126 and Rishabh Pant made a fluent 81. However, Afghanistan's pacers struck back in the morning session, reducing India to 475/6 by lunch and preventing the hosts from running away unchecked. Gavaskar lauded Afghanistan's determination and the way they utilised the second new ball. You could find yourself in a situation where you resume play at 368 for three and feel a little down as a bowling side. But what the Afghan boys showed was a lot of heart because they knew the second new ball was available, and they used it to very good effect, Gavaskar told Jio Hotstar. The former India captain also felt Afghanistan missed a crucial opportunity by failing to make full use of the Decision Review System during the session. Maybe if they had been better with their reviews, they might have had a lot more wickets to show for their efforts because the two reviews they missed came in the same over. Had they taken those wickets when the ball was still new, they might have picked up a few more, and perhaps the score would not have been 475 for six, but rather 450-odd for eight, or thereabouts, he added. Gill and Pant both benefited from unreviewed chances during their innings, with wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai unable to convince captain Hashmatullah Shahidi to challenge the on-field decisions. Mohammad Saleem Safi led Afghanistan's charge with the ball, dismissing Gill and Dhruv Jurel in a probing spell with the new ball, while Shahidi chipped in with the prized wicket of Pant. Despite India's eventual declaration at 564/8, Gavaskar said Afghanistan's approach deserved appreciation. Mohammad Saleem Safi led Afghanistan's charge with the ball, dismissing Gill and Dhruv Jurel in a probing spell with the new ball, while Shahidi chipped in with the prized wicket of Pant. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India's imposing total was built around centuries from Gill and KL Rahul, while Pant's aggressive 81 further strengthened the hosts' position. Article Source: IANS
SOBO Mumbai Falcons Storm Into Inaugural T20 Mumbai Womens League Final
Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburb: SOBO Mumbai Falcons sealed their place in the final of the inaugural T20 Mumbai Womens League after registering their third successive victory with a comprehensive 39-run win over Aakash Tigers Mumbai Western Suburb at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. Defending a competitive total of 143/7, the Falcons produced a clinical bowling display to dismiss the Tigers for 104 in 18.2 overs. The chase got off to the worst possible start for the Tigers as skipper Humairaa Kaazi was dismissed for a duck by her opposite number Sayali Satghare before the team could open its account. Opener Sanika Chalke and Sejal Raut attempted to rebuild the innings with a 47-run partnership for the second wicket. Sejal made 15 before falling in the seventh over, while Sanika looked set for a bigger score before being run out for a fighting 42 with the score on 61/3. After Sanika's dismissal, the Tigers struggled to keep pace with the required rate as wickets fell regularly. None of the remaining batters managed to make a substantial contribution, and the innings folded for 104. Sayali led (2-21) from the front with the ball, while Nirmiti Rane (2-21) and Swara Jadhav (2-12) chipped in with two wickets apiece. Earlier, Sarika Koli's composed 49 laid the foundation for the Falcons' total. Put in to bat, the Falcons suffered an early setback when Riya Chaudhari departed for two. Simran Shaikh (38) and Aarohi Bambode (19) steadied the innings with a valuable 44-run stand for the second wicket before the Tigers struck twice in quick succession to pull things back. Koli then took charge alongside captain Sayali, adding 43 runs for the fourth wicket. However, Fatima Jaffar, who impressed with figures of 3/20, broke the partnership by dismissing Sayali and continued to keep the scoring in check. Earlier, Sarika Koli's composed 49 laid the foundation for the Falcons' total. Put in to bat, the Falcons suffered an early setback when Riya Chaudhari departed for two. Simran Shaikh (38) and Aarohi Bambode (19) steadied the innings with a valuable 44-run stand for the second wicket before the Tigers struck twice in quick succession to pull things back. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: SOBO Mumbai Falcons 143/7 in 20 overs (Sarika Koli 49, Simran Shaikh 38; Fatima Jaffar 3-20) beat Aakash Tigers MWS 104 all out in 18.2 overs (Sanika Chalke 42; Swara Jadhav 2-12, Sayali Satghare 2-21, Nirmiti Rane 2-21) by 39 runs. Article Source: IANS
Anushka Leads From The Front As Bundelkhand Bulls Edge Gwalior Shernis In MPL T20 Scindia Cup
MPL T20 Scindia Cup: Bundelkhand Bulls continued their winning run in the womens competition of Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 with a thrilling four-wicket victory over Gwalior Shernis. After being put in to bat by Bundelkhand Bulls at Daly College, Indore, Gwalior Shernis scored 117/6 in their 20 overs. Openers Nuzhat Parween and Aashna Patidar gave the Shernis a steady start, adding 37 runs for the first wicket before Aashna was dismissed for 16 off 15 balls. Parween then joined hands with Soumya Tiwari, and the duo stitched together a valuable 41-run partnership to keep the innings on track. However, the Shernis suffered a collapse after the skippers dismissal for 38 off 45 deliveries, losing wickets at regular intervals. Bundelkhand Bulls seized control through disciplined bowling from Shuchi Upadhyay and Muskan Biswas. Shuchi was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/30 in her four overs, while Muskan claimed 2/17 in an equally impressive spell. Payal Balmik also chipped in with a wicket, conceding just 14 runs from her two overs. Parween then joined hands with Soumya Tiwari, and the duo stitched together a valuable 41-run partnership to keep the innings on track. However, the Shernis suffered a collapse after the skippers dismissal for 38 off 45 deliveries, losing wickets at regular intervals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Anushka, meanwhile, continued to anchor the chase from one end and kept the scoreboard moving like an international match. The match took an interesting turn in the 17th over when Mahi Thakur appeared to have been dismissed, only for the delivery to be called a no-ball. Article Source: IANS
My Sister Told Me, 'It's Official': Manav Suthar Reveals How He Learned About His Test Selection
Indian Premier League: Promising left-arm spin-bowling all-rounder Manav Suthar recalled the emotional moment of his India call-up, revealing that his sister told him that his name had come up for the Indian team for the one-off Test against Afghanistan. India added Suthar to the XI for the one-off Test against Afghanistan in Mullanpur. Before the game began on Saturday, Suthar, who played for the Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 under Indias red-ball skipper Shubman Gills leadership, earned his first cap from senior spinner Kuldeep, becoming India's first specialist spin-bowling Test debutant since Axar Patel made his debut in 2021. I was in my room when my sister called me. Maybe she was watching the squad announcement event. She told me that my name had come up in the Indian team. I asked her if it was official. She said yes, it's official. She was the first one to call me. Everyone was emotional when I got the call. Dad, mom, everyone called me. They couldn't believe it. I can't describe it in words. It's the biggest feeling. You work hard for years, and then you finally get selected for India. It's the best feeling. The best feeling of my life, Suthar told JioStar. The 23-year-old allrounder opened about how his love for cricket first developed as a child. Cricket has always been a big part of my family. My father loves the game, and everyone at home watches matches regularly. As a young boy, I used to sit with them and watch. That is where my love for cricket first started. I began playing in the streets with my friends. Those street games taught me the basics, how to hold the bat and how to bowl. When I was 10 or 11, I joined a proper cricket academy. I started training under coach Dheeraj sir and Vinod sir. They taught me the right techniques and helped me improve my game. My first big breakthrough came when I played for Rajasthan in the Under-14 category. That experience gave me a lot of motivation. I realized that I could make a career out of this sport. From there, my journey as a cricketer truly began. On the obstacles he overcame to make it to the top level, Suthar said, In a country like India, with such a huge population, succeeding in cricket is never easy. You never know what the future holds. There are so many talented players competing for the same few spots. I faced a lot of challenges along the way. Many people told me to focus on my studies. They said cricket had no scope and that I was wasting my time. But I didn't listen. I didn't give up. I kept working hard, session after session, season after season, he said. Hailing from Rajasthan and having sharpened his skills through the state's domestic circuit, Suthar has built an impressive first-class record. In 29 first-class matches, he has claimed 129 wickets, establishing himself as one of the country's most promising young spinners. He has also featured in 25 List-A matches and 29 T20 games. I had a great domestic season. I performed well for India A too. My name was being discussed, and I knew the call could come anytime. It was a waiting game, but I stayed patient. I made my IPL debut in 2024 with Gujarat Titans. I played only one game that season. I didn't get a chance to play in 2025, but I played four games in 2026, and it felt good to be back on the field. Now, all the hard work in domestic cricket and for India A has paid off. I am in the playing XI for the Afghanistan Test, making my international debut. It is a dream come true. All the sacrifices have finally paid off. I feel proud, grateful, and ready to give my best for the country, he added. I had a great domestic season. I performed well for India A too. My name was being discussed, and I knew the call could come anytime. It was a waiting game, but I stayed patient. I made my IPL debut in 2024 with Gujarat Titans. I played only one game that season. I didn't get a chance to play in 2025, but I played four games in 2026, and it felt good to be back on the field. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yuvraj Singh is my favourite cricketer. I also really admire R Ashwin. The way they bowled, the variety they had in their bowling, and how they adapted to Test cricket, ODIs, and T20s, that inspires me a lot. They are my role models, Suthar said. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Washington Hits 52 Not Out As India Declare At 564/8 Against Afghanistan
Mohammad Saleem Safi: India declared their innings at 564/8 in 127 overs on day two of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, with Washington Sundar unbeaten on a composed 52. For Afghanistan, pacer Mohammad Saleem Safi finished with 6-140. The declaration came at 1:33pm local time, signalled by captain Shubman Gill after Sundar reached his fifty The all-rounder, often shuffled in the batting order, once again underlined his value with the bat by mixing patience with timely aggression. His fifty was marked by a wristy flick for four off Safi, after slamming a commanding pull for six. Indias lower order added quick runs before Gill called time. Debutant Manav Suthar struck two lusty sixes to push the total past 500, but his attacking cameo ended when he became Safis fifth victim. Mohammed Siraj was promoted ahead of Kuldeep Yadav and responded with a breezy 22 off 12 balls, including a six and three boundaries, before Safi cleaned him up. Kuldeep Yadav then joined Sundar and added nine runs before the declaration came. Safis spell was the highlight of Afghanistans effort. Having gone wicketless in his previous four international appearances, the pacer found rhythm and consistency with the second new ball, exploiting variable bounce and mixing lengths to trouble Indias batters. On a scorching Sunday in New Chandigarh, when India walked off after declaring their innings, Safi left the field with the match ball raised in acknowledgement of the sparse crowd. Indias innings was built on skipper Shubman Gills authoritative 126, KL Rahuls century, Sai Sudharsans 81 and Rishabh Pants 81 earlier in the day. But the lower-order contributions ensured the hosts had a healthy run-rate of 4.44 and also placed the innings among Indias fourth fastest 500-plus totals in Test history. Safis spell was the highlight of Afghanistans effort. Having gone wicketless in his previous four international appearances, the pacer found rhythm and consistency with the second new ball, exploiting variable bounce and mixing lengths to trouble Indias batters. On a scorching Sunday in New Chandigarh, when India walked off after declaring their innings, Safi left the field with the match ball raised in acknowledgement of the sparse crowd. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 564/8 dec. in 127 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100; Mohammad Saleem Safi 6-140, Hashmatullah Shahidi 1-91) against Afghanistan Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Iyer has replaced Suryakumar Yadav as India's T20I captain following a strategic review by selectors and his impressive recent form. Suryakumar's underwhelming performances, including a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign, resulted in him losing both the captaincy and his place in the squad.
Don't Let Expectations Distract From Process: Harmanpreet's Mantra For Women's T20 WC
T20 World Cup: India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur has a knack for keeping things simple, even as the noise around the upcoming Womens T20 World Cup has started to take centrestage. The chatter about India being in the group of death, batting frailties or the scars of the group stage exit in the 2024 Womens T20 World Cup fades quickly when she speaks with the utmost clarity. Hardened by previous setbacks at global events, India finally broke the trophy drought with the ODI World Cup won at home in 2025. Now, India seeks to clinch its first Womens T20 World Cup title in England and Wales, expectations from all quarters are on a high when Harmanpreet & Co. take the field on June 14 against Pakistan in Birmingham. But Harmanpreet insists that one thing has still not changed - of not letting expectations distracting one from their usual process to achieve glory. With success naturally comes more expectations, but I see that as a positive sign for women's cricket. It shows that people are emotionally invested in the team and are following our journey closely. Personally, I try not to think too much about outside pressure. My focus remains on preparation, contributing to the team, and staying present in the moment. Over the years, I have realised that expectations will always exist at this level, and the key is to not let them distract you from your process. It is also very encouraging to see more fans engaging with women's cricket now. Growing support motivates all of us to keep improving and performing consistently, recalls Harmanpreet in an exclusive conversation with IANS ahead of the T20 World Cup, facilitated by CREX. Even though India suffered series losses in South Africa in the run-up to the 12-team mega event, the extensive hardwork done at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru was, by Harmanpreet's account, as thorough a preparation as she has been part of - not just in terms of skill work, but also in terms of role clarity and mental readiness. The preparatory camp at the Centre of Excellence was very structured and focused on multiple aspects of readiness for the T20 World Cup. Along with skill-based training, there was strong emphasis on fitness, match simulations, game awareness, and handling pressure situations. We also worked a lot on role clarity within the team, which is extremely important in T20 cricket because situations change very quickly. The support staff ensured that preparation was not just physical, but also mental and tactical. Camps like these help build rhythm and confidence as a group before a major tournament, and they also allow younger players to spend more time with experienced players in a competitive environment, added Harmanpreet. Apart from keeping an eye on ensuring the 2026 T20 World Cup campaign tells a different story for India as compared to earlier years, the onlookers will be keen to cast a view on Harmanpreets own batting. In South Africa earlier this year, she showed a willingness to attack earlier in the innings while hitting 66 in Johannesburg. A more aggressive version of Harmanpreet has been shaped by a sharper intent that head coach Amol Muzumdar later highlighted. Its also evident from the numbers too - in T20Is this year, Harmanpreet has scored at a strike rate of 132.3 - her best in any calendar year by a distance. Asked about her recent surge in aggression with the bat in the shortest format, Harmanpreet traces it to one word process. Modern T20 cricket is constantly evolving, and as players, we also need to evolve with the demands of the game. The idea behind becoming more aggressive was not about changing my natural game completely, but about being more proactive and taking calculated risks earlier when the situation allows. A lot of discussions with the coaches, including Amol sir, helped in identifying areas where I could put more pressure on bowlers and improve scoring options. We worked specifically on intent, shot selection, and adapting quicker to match situations. Implementing it was more about mindset and clarity. Once you trust your preparation and decision-making, you can play with more freedom and confidence, she added. Aside from batting and hitting deliveries from the get go, Harmanpreets love for fielding still remains high, for it is treated not as a secondary skill, but as part of the same commitment she brings to batting and captaincy. Cast your mind back to November 2, 2025 at DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai, when South Africas Nadine de Klerk backed away to carve an inside out against a low full toss outside off stump from Deepti Sharma. But Nadine only managed to slice the ball high towards extra cover, where Harmanpreet turned swiftly, ran back and tracked the ball over her shoulder before completing a clean catch and confirmed Indias long awaited ODI World Cup victory. Absolutely - fielding is something I genuinely enjoy because it allows you to stay constantly involved in the game and contribute to the team in different ways. A good catch, a sharp run-out, or saving crucial runs can change the momentum of a match just as much as an important innings. I have always believed that energy on the field reflects the attitude of the team. Diving, chasing balls, and putting in that extra effort also motivates teammates and lifts the overall intensity on the field. Batting will always be special to me, but fielding gives a different kind of satisfaction because it is completely about awareness, commitment, and reacting in the moment. Quizzed on whether she enjoys the thrill of taking a good catch or the satisfaction of a dive leading to a good run-out, Harmanpreet refuses to choose between the two. I think it is a combination of both. As a fielder, you always have the opportunity to make an impact on the game, whether it is through taking a catch, saving crucial runs, or creating a run-out opportunity. There is a special thrill in taking a difficult catch, but at the same time, putting in a dive to stop a boundary or contributing to a run-out can be equally satisfying because it helps the team in an important moment. What I enjoy most about fielding is the energy and involvement it brings. You are constantly alert, reading the game, and looking for opportunities to make a difference. Good fielding can shift momentum just as much as a good innings or a crucial wicket, and being able to contribute in that way is something I really enjoy. The same logic runs through how Harmanpreet thinks about something beyond her own performance: - the visibility of women's cricket itself and the chatter amongst fans for the game on a daily basis, which is visible through her partnership with CREX and its unique Social feature which allows fans to have discussions and analysis in real time, especially when the matches are on. Today, audiences want instant updates, live engagement, statistics, and match conversations in one place, and digital platforms help bridge that gap effectively. For womens cricket, consistent visibility is extremely important. The more regularly fans can follow matches, player performances, and a tournaments moments, the stronger the connection with the sport becomes. For womens cricket, this kind of engagement is very valuable because it helps build familiarity and long-term fan loyalty beyond just headline moments. Fan conversations are extremely important because they create a sense of community around the sport. When people actively discuss matches, players, performances, and key moments in real time, it increases emotional investment and visibility for the game. For womens cricket, these conversations help normalise the sport within mainstream cricket culture rather than treating it separately. The more people talk about the sport regularly, the stronger and more connected the fan ecosystem becomes, she added. For womens cricket, this kind of engagement is very valuable because it helps build familiarity and long-term fan loyalty beyond just headline moments. Fan conversations are extremely important because they create a sense of community around the sport. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harmanpreet has faced harder situations with less certainty and found her way through all of it. Whether that same quiet conviction of staying in the present, to not let lofty expectations swallow the team, and trusting the process above all else carries India to the one white-ball trophy that still eludes them, only these next few weeks will tell. A thrilling English summer awaits Harmanpreet and she looks ready to face it headon. Article Source: IANS
India march ahead despite Saleem's strikes, Pant misses out on century
India lost three wickets in the morning session, of Gill, Jurel and Pant
One-off Test: Gill, Pant Power India To 475/6 Against Afghanistan At Lunch
Mohammad Saleem Safi: Indias batting charge continued to shine bright on day two of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, with skipper Shubman Gill and Rishabh Pant hitting 126 and 81, respectively, before the visitors struck back to claim three wickets in the first session. At lunch, India are at 475/6 in 110 overs, with Washington Sundar (14 not out) and debutant Manav Suthar (nine not out) at the crease. Gill, resuming from overnight score of 103 not out with authority, extended his innings to a commanding 126 off 177 balls before falling to Mohammad Saleem Safi, who bowled a fiery and disciplined spell with pace and movement with the second new ball. Pant, who looked equally assured, mixed caution with aggression to reach 81 off 121 balls. But his dismissal to skipper Hashmatullah Shahidi, who also got his first Test wicket, mirrored Sai Sudharsans fate from the previous day - both left-handers falling short of centuries after hitting promising fifties. India added 107 runs in the morning session, but Afghanistan could have had more success had they been sharper with their decision making in taking reviews. Gill survived a close lbw shout and Pant edged one behind - both decisions went unchallenged despite clear evidence of them being out later. Keeper Afsar Zazai endured a difficult time, unable to convince Shahidi to take the crucial DRS calls that might have changed the complexion of the innings. Safi was the standout bowler, claiming Gill and Dhruv Jurel in quick succession. Jurel, who looked positive with four boundaries in his 19 off 20 balls, misjudged a nip-backer and was castled. Shahidi then joined the wicket-taking act when he lured Pant into a mistimed lofted stroke and mid-off easily took the catch. Keeper Afsar Zazai endured a difficult time, unable to convince Shahidi to take the crucial DRS calls that might have changed the complexion of the innings. Safi was the standout bowler, claiming Gill and Dhruv Jurel in quick succession. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 475/6 in 110 overs (Shubman Gill 126, KL Rahul 100; Mohammad Saleem Safi 4-109, Hashmatullah Shahidi 1-70) against Afghanistan Article Source: IANS
Triumph Knights Mumbai North East: Indias newly-appointed T20I captain Shreyas Iyer produced a sensational knock, smashing a fluent 61 off 36 balls to guide SOBO Mumbai Falcons to a convincing five-wicket victory over Triumph Knights Mumbai North East in a marquee T20 Mumbai League 2026 encounter at the Wankhede Stadium. The blockbuster fixture offered a glimpse into Mumbai crickets remarkable depth and enduring legacy, bringing together World Cup-winning captains Rohit Sharma, whos also the face of the league, and Suryakumar Yadav alongside Indias newest T20I captain Iyer on the same stage. Rohit was present for the toss and also enjoyed the thrilling contest. With 21,708 fans packing the Wankhede, the contest underlined the growing stature and competitiveness of one of Indias leading franchise-based domestic T20 tournaments as spectators were treated to a high-quality action featuring some of the biggest names in Indian cricket. Chasing a modest 148, the Falcons were jolted early after losing both openers with just 41 runs on the board. Introduced as an Impact Player, Iyer transformed the chase with an authoritative innings, immediately taking charge with back-to-back boundaries to wrest control of the contest, played late on Saturday night. The right-hander stitched together a 33-run stand with Gautam Waghela for the third wicket before unleashing an array of elegant strokes against the Knights' attack. He brought up his half-century in style with a towering six over deep midwicket and continued to dominate the bowling, putting the Falcons firmly on course for victory. Parikshit Valsangkar eventually ended Shreyas enterprising knock, which featured five fours and four sixes, but by then the result was all but sealed. Akash Parkar applied the finishing touch with a six as the Falcons completed the chase with 20 balls to spare. Earlier, Suryakumar starred with the willow, scoring a fluent 48 off 24 deliveries, laced with three fours and four sixes. The T20 World Cup-winning captain helped the Knights recover from the early setbacks with a 56-runs partnership with the in-form Nutan Goel (34). However, the Falcons' bowlers tightened the screws after the stand was broken, preventing the Knights from building further momentum. Prathamesh Dake starred with the ball, claiming four wickets as Triumph Knights MNE were restricted to 147/8 in their allotted 20 overs. Earlier, Suryakumar starred with the willow, scoring a fluent 48 off 24 deliveries, laced with three fours and four sixes. The T20 World Cup-winning captain helped the Knights recover from the early setbacks with a 56-runs partnership with the in-form Nutan Goel (34). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Triumph Knights Mumbai North East 147/8 in 20 overs (Suryakumar Yadav 48, Nutan Goel 34; Prathamesh Dake 4-30) lost to SOBO Mumbai Falcons 149/5 in 16.4 overs (Shreyas Iyer 61, Gautam Waghela 26) by five wickets. Article Source: IANS
From England to New Zealand: Cricket Nations at the FIFA World Cup 2026
The 2026 FIFA Mens World Cup kicks off when joint-hosts Mexico get the tournament underway in Mexico City's Azteca Stadium on June 11, 2026. It will be the biggest World Cup, expanding from 32 nations in Qatar 2022 to 48 teams in the USA, Mexico and Canada. What is crickets contribution to the FIFA World Cup? There are not many countries who have participated in both the football and cricket World Cup. England is the most prominent nation among those who have featured in both the tournaments. Football is one of the most popular games in Europe and with cricket also expanding, World Cup participation in both the sports has also increased in recent years. England is the only team to have a world-class side in both sports. The lack of World Cup wins is a common strand between both mens national teams, but they are the only side to achieve the double. India, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan and Bangladesh are far away from a shot at making the football World Cup. New Zealand gets a chance every four years but is inhibited by their continents frailties. South Africa even hosted it in 2010, but their run also ended there, and now they are returning after 16 years. The West Indies compete as individual nations in football, which leaves only Australia and Ireland amongst the top 12 full members of the International Cricket Council. *The football World Cup expansion has helped in an increase the participation of nations in the event, of those who have appeared in the cricket World Cup (50 overs) also, and this time a total of 7 such teams are playing. *In addition to the playing of regulars, the number of cricket World Cup teams in the football World Cup has been boosted by the return of New Zealand (after last participation in 2010), Scotland (after last participation in 1998) and South Africa (after last participation in 2010). * So far, England is the only team to have won both the football and cricket World Cup. Let us have a look: Australia World Cup Cricket: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987,1992, 1996, 1999, 2003,2007, 2011, 2015. 2019, 2023 Best: Champions 1987, 1999, 2003, 2007,2015, 2023 World Cup Football: 1974, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022 ,2026 Best: Second round 2006, 2022 Canada World Cup Cricket: 1979, 2003, 2007, 2011 Best: First round World Cup Football: 1986, 2022, 2026 Best: First round 1986, 2022 England World Cup Cricket: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987,1992, 1996, 1999, 2003,2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023 Best: Champion 2019 World Cup Football: 1950, 1954, 1958, 1962,1966, 1970, 1982, 1986, 1990, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2018, 2022, 2026 In 1958 Wales also participated and entered QF. Best: Champion 1966 Netherlands World Cup Cricket: 1996, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2023 Best: First round World Cup Football: 1934, 1938, 1974, 1978, 1990, 1994, 1998, 2006, 2010, 2014, 2022, 2026 Best: Runners-up 1974, 1978, 2010 New Zealand World Cup Cricket: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987,1992, 1996, 1999, 2003, 2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023 Best: Final 2015, 2019 World Cup Football: 1982, 2010, 2026 Best: First round Ireland World Cup Cricket: 2007, 2011, 2015 Best: Super Eights 2007 World Cup Football: As Republic of Ireland in 1990, 1994, 2002 with best of Quarter-final in 1990 As Northern Ireland in 1958, 1982, 1986 with best of second round in 1958, 1982 Scotland World Cup Cricket: 1999, 2007, 2015 Best: First round World Cup Football: 1954, 1958, 1974, 1978,1982, 1986, 1990, 1998, 2026 Best: First round South Africa World Cup Cricket: 1992, 1996, 1999, 2003,2007, 2011, 2015, 2019, 2023 Best: Semi-final 1992, 1999, 2007, 2015, 2023 World Cup Football: 1998, 2002, 2010, 2026 Best: First round UAE World Cup Cricket: 1996, 2015 Best: First round World Cup Football:1990 Best: First round West Indies World Cup Cricket: 1975, 1979, 1983, 1987,1992, 1996, 1999, 2003,2007, 2011, 2015, 2019 Best: Champion 1975, 1979 World Cup Football: Jamaica in 1998 with best of first round Also Read: Live Cricket Score Trinidad & Tobago in 2006 with best of first round
Womens T20 WC: Mooney Tips Voll To Justify No.3 Batter Tag
T20 World Cup: Australia opener Beth Mooney has backed her partner at the top Georgia Voll to justify her credentials as the worlds top-ranked T20I batter when she makes her maiden appearance in a Womens T20 World Cup when the tournament begins in England and Wales on June 12. Georgia, 22, climbed to the summit of the ICC Womens T20I batting rankings earlier this year after a string of commanding knocks, including hitting her maiden century against the West Indies in March. With the legendary Alyssa Healy retiring earlier this year, Georgia is set to partner with Beth as Australia attempt to add a record seventh Womens T20 World Cup title. She (Voll) has put a marker out there to other teams with the way she's been playing her cricket in the past 12-18 months, so I am really excited to see her take her opportunity at the top of the order. She played a lot of cricket before she made her debut for Australia. She played for Queensland and Brisbane at a pretty young age, so I think that's given her a lot of confidence going into international cricket, and she's got real clarity on her game and her role as well. She's a real talent, she hits the ball nice and hard, she picks up length really well, so she'll be a real threat for us for sure, Beth was quoted as saying by ICC on Sunday. She (Voll) has put a marker out there to other teams with the way she's been playing her cricket in the past 12-18 months, so I am really excited to see her take her opportunity at the top of the order. She played a lot of cricket before she made her debut for Australia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For me personally, walking out with someone different in a T20 World Cup is going to be a little bit weird, but fortunately, 'Volly' and I have a pretty cool relationship as well. Hopefully we can replicate some of the cool things that 'Midge' (Healy) and I did at the top of the order in T20 World Cups and create our own story there open the batting for Australia in big games, and have a lot of fun doing it, she added. Article Source: IANS
'It Couldve Been A Big Innings': Sudharsan Rues Missing Out On Big Score In One-off Test
New Chandigarh: Young India left-handed batter Sai Sudharsan said he was disappointed at missing out on a bigger score in the ongoing one-off Test against Afghanistan, but expressed happiness over having contributed to the teams score of 368/3 on day ones play. Batting at number three after India elected to bat first, Sudharsan scored 81, his third fifty in the format and had a second-wicket stand of 139 with centurion KL Rahul. I think, I was set, it could have been a big innings. Definitely disappointed, but really happy that I could contribute for the team and be a bit more certain there, Sudharsan said to broadcasters ahead of day twos play. Asked about the transition from T20 cricket to the longer format, Sudharsan explained, I mean, mentally, I think it's not a big difference for me, as I play the sport very similar, wherever I go and play, whether white ball or red ball. It's all about decision-making for me and just a few minor technical adjustments, which we had three, four days of time, which helped me to get back to red ball cricket and it was great. Sudharsan, known for his methodical preparation, said his process to bat in Tests is built on clarity and trust. Definitely, we had videos in place, so I worked on it. I looked what the bowlers can bowl and what they can come, what they can do against me. At the same time, I was very clear with what I wanted to do with the game plan and what I wanted to look at when I entered the game. It was more about me mentally being there and more about me mentally trusting myself or believing myself more. I think that kicked in a bit more, just came and it helped well. Sudharsan, known for his methodical preparation, said his process to bat in Tests is built on clarity and trust. Definitely, we had videos in place, so I worked on it. I looked what the bowlers can bowl and what they can come, what they can do against me. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That's what a cricketer wants, that certainty or that freedom, whatever he wants to do. And if he gets that, he doesn't have to think about what will happen in the future or what had happened in the past. It's all about now and if that freedom is being placed, I think it's the best place for a cricketer to express himself and do what he wants to do at best. Article Source: IANS
Cricket Victoria apply to trademark Melbourne Rangers name
Melbourne Stars will be rebranded should a hybrid model for BBL privatisation be approved in the coming weeks
A new name, a new champion: Andreeva conquers Roland Garros
The 19-year-old became the youngest Roland Garros womens champion since Monica Seles in 1992, cementing her status as one of tenniss brightest stars
Russian Teen Mirra Andreeva Says She Had to Overcome So Many Demons Inside to Win the French Open
After bursting onto the scene at 15, Andreeva became a Grand Slam champion at 19 when the Russian ended the run of 114th-ranked Polish qualifier Maja Chwalinska with a 6-3, 6-2 victory in the French Open final on Saturday.
Broad, Sanderson and Sales help keep Northants winning run going
Callum Parkinson takes 3 for 19 but Durham struggle in low-scoring arm wrestle at Chester-le-Street
WI bowl first in drizzly Kingston; Malinga, Jangoo named in XIs
SL need a win to gain their first ODI series victory in WI since 2003
Bengal T20 League: Shami Hat-trick, Vishal's 86 Power Siliguri Strikers To Dominant Win
Bengal T20 League Season: The iconic Eden Gardens on Saturday witnessed another Md Shami special as the veteran pacer bagged an impressive hat-trick for Servotech Siliguri Strikers against Shrachi Rarh Tigers in the Bengal T20 League Season 3 match. Shami dismissed Shahbaz Ahmed in the fourth ball of the 16th over, followed that up by claiming Rohit Kumar and Dipanjan Mukherjee in the fifth and sixth balls respectively to complete his hat-trick. Shami finished with 4 for 27 in 4 overs while Karan Lal (3-36) also impressed as Siliguri bagged a 24-run victory over Rarh Tigers. Put into bat, Siliguri Strikers posted a challenging 208/4 in 20 overs, thanks to Vishal Bhati's brilliant 46-ball 86. His knock included 6 sixes and 5 fours. At the end, Pramod Chandila's quickfire 36 not out off 16 powered the team past 200. Chasing the target, Shrachi Rarh Tigers managed 184/9 in 20 overs. Shuvam Dey Sr (48 off 25) and Rahul Prasad (44 off 26) were the pick of the batters. Earlier in the day's first match, Sobisco Smashers Malda outclassed Murshidabad Kings by seven wickets. Put into bat, after the match was reduced to 15-overs-a-side due to rain, Murshidabad Kings scored 134/7 in the allotted overs. Deepanshu (47 off 33) top-scored for his side. For Malda, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal was the pick of the bowlers, bagging 3 for 18. In reply, Writam Porel (50 off 29) and Abhimanyu Easwaran (48 not out off 31) helped Malda chase the target down, scoring 138/3 in 13.4 overs. Riding on a dominant batting display, Sobisco Smashers Malda registered a convincing seven-wicket victory over Murshidabad Kings in the Bengal T20 League Season 3 men's competition at Eden Gardens on Saturday. After rain reduced the contest to a 15-overs-a-side affair, Murshidabad Kings batted first and posted a competitive 134/7. Deepanshu led the scoring with a brisk 47 off 33 deliveries, while contributions from the middle order helped the side maintain momentum through the innings. In response, Sobisco Smashers Malda made light work of the chase. Writam Porel set the tone with an aggressive 50 off 29 balls before Abhimanyu Easwaran anchored the innings with an unbeaten 48 off 31 deliveries. The duo ensured Malda remained firmly in control as they chased down the target, finishing on 138/3 with eight balls to spare. Brief scores: Murshidabad Kings vs Sobisco Smashers Malda Murshidabad Kings 134/7 (15 overs) Sobisco Smashers Malda: 138/3 (13.4 overs) Brief score Shrachi Rarh Tigers vs Servotech Siliguri Strikers Sobisco Smashers Malda: 138/3 (13.4 overs) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shrachi Rarh Tigers: 184/9 (20 overs). Article Source: IANS
'Very Happy For Shreyas': Suryakumar Reacts To Iyer Becoming India T20I Captain
Former India T20I: Former India T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav has welcomed Shreyas Iyer's appointment as the new skipper of the men's T20I side, saying he was very, very, very happy for his long-time Mumbai teammate and describing the development as a proud moment for Mumbai cricket. Hours after being replaced as captain by Shreyas, Suryakumar came face-to-face with the newly-appointed India skipper during a T20 Mumbai League fixture on Saturday. Suryakumar led Triumph Knights MNE, while Shreyas was part of the SoBo Mumbai Falcons setup as an Impact Substitute. The two Mumbai stalwarts shared a warm hug before the start of the match, reflecting the bond they have built over years of playing together for Mumbai and India. Speaking at the toss, Suryakumar put aside any personal disappointment and congratulated Shreyas on taking charge of the national T20 side. As you said, so many things are happening, but obviously very, very, very happy for Shreyas as he's getting to lead the T20 Indian team. We played a lot of cricket together in Bombay. The most important thing, what I felt, is that three back-to-back Mumbai captains are going to lead T20s for India. I think it's a very proud moment, and everyone needs to celebrate that, Suryakumar said. The comments marked Suryakumar's first public reaction to Shreyas' appointment after the BCCI announced sweeping changes to India's T20I setup earlier in the day. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had acknowledged that removing Suryakumar from the captaincy was a difficult decision, especially after he guided India to the T20 World Cup title earlier this year. However, the selectors opted for a fresh leadership direction with an eye on the next World Cup cycle, citing Shreyas' strong leadership credentials and consistent performances across formats. Earlier in the day, Suryakumar had also taken to social media to wish the Indian team success, posting a picture of the squad on his Instagram story with the message: Wishing this highly skilled group all the best for challenges ahead. Chief selector Ajit Agarkar had acknowledged that removing Suryakumar from the captaincy was a difficult decision, especially after he guided India to the T20 World Cup title earlier this year. However, the selectors opted for a fresh leadership direction with an eye on the next World Cup cycle, citing Shreyas' strong leadership credentials and consistent performances across formats. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While his tenure as India's T20I captain has come to an end, Suryakumar's public messages throughout the day reflected support for his successor and encouragement for the next generation of Indian cricketers. Article Source: IANS
Bengal T20 League: Writam, Easwaran Power Sobisco Smashers Malda To Easy Win Over Murshidabad Kings
The Bengal T20 League: Riding on a dominant batting display, Sobisco Smashers Malda registered a convincing seven-wicket victory over Murshidabad Kings in the men's competition of Season 3 of the Bengal T20 League at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Saturday. After rain reduced the contest to a 15-overs-a-side affair, Murshidabad Kings batted first and posted a competitive 134/7. Deepanshu led the scoring with a brisk 47 off 33 deliveries, while contributions from the middle order helped the side maintain momentum through the innings. For Malda, Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal starred with the ball, returning impressive figures of 3/18 and keeping the opposition in check during the latter stages of the innings. In response, Sobisco Smashers Malda made light work of the chase. Writam Porel set the tone with an aggressive 50 off 29 balls before Abhimanyu Easwaran anchored the innings with an unbeaten 48 off 31 deliveries. The duo ensured Malda remained firmly in control as they chased down the target, finishing on 138/3 with eight balls to spare. For Murshidabad Kings, Aditya Sharma picked up two wickets, but his efforts were not enough to prevent Malda from securing a comfortable win. The Bengal T20 League is a franchise-based T20 cricket competition organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). Now in its third season, the league has established itself as West Bengal's premier domestic T20 platform, built on the belief that cricket in Bengal has always been more than a sport it is a matter of identity. The league features eight city-based franchises representing the breadth of West Bengal - Adamas Howrah Warriors, Novus Royals Purulia, Kolkata Royal Tigers, Murshidabad Kings & Kueens, Rashmi Nes Medinipur Wizards, Servotech Siliguri Strikers, Shrachi Rarh Tigers, and Sobisco Smashers Malda competing across men's and women's competitions. For Murshidabad Kings, Aditya Sharma picked up two wickets, but his efforts were not enough to prevent Malda from securing a comfortable win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Murshidabad Kings 134/7 in 15 overs (Deepanshu 47; Suraj Sindhu Jaiswal 3-18) lost to Sobisco Smashers Malda 138/3 in 13.4 overs (Writam Porel 50, Abhimanyu Easwaran 48 not out) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Young pacer Mangesh Yadav may not have featured regularly in Royal Challengers Bengaluru's playing XI, but his time in the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise has provided him with invaluable lessons from some of the biggest names in world cricket. Having shared the dressing room with stalwarts such as Virat Kohli, Josh Hazlewood, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Mangesh believes the transition from domestic cricket and tournaments like the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) to the IPL is defined by the sheer amount of experience available around a young player. Reflecting on the difference between domestic cricket and the IPL environment, Mangesh, RCBs Rs. 5.2 crore buy, said the opportunity to observe and learn from world-class players every day was unlike anything he had experienced before. In domestic cricket, I feel there are some senior players and some youngsters like me who, like in MPL, perform well, learn a little from there, and then play alongside the seniors. There, Rajat was also captaining, so I learnt a little from him. So, there, you learn, and whatever you get, you learn. But when you go from domestic to IPL, you share the dressing room with Virat Kohli, Virat Bhaiya, Josh Hazlewood, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Bhuvi Bhaiya, and all the other players, Mangesh told IANS in an exclusive interaction. The youngster said that interacting with players who have spent years at the highest level helped accelerate his understanding of the game. So, it's good because they have so much experience. Bhuvi bhaiya (Bhuvneshwar Kumar) has at least 200 matches of experience in T20. They have 200 IPL matches. Hoff (Hazlewood) has a lot of experience. So, you get to learn from them daily. Virat Bhaiya also has a lot of experience, he said. While he did not get on-field opportunities, Mangesh said that even observing games closely from the sidelines offered important lessons about team culture and a winning mentality. I didn't get a chance to play in the field. But when we used to go in as waterboys and talk about matches, it felt very intact that you don't want to leave the match in the middle, and you want to play as a team. Not a single moment felt like we had won. Until the match is won, you want to play as a team. So, that felt really good. So, I got to learn a lot in this IPL, Mangesh stated. Among the many memories from the season, Mangesh highlighted RCB's title-winning moment as one he will never forget. There are a lot of moments. The first one is the trophy. When we won the trophy, it was a next-level feeling. Before that, it felt normal to win a match, even the final. But when we won the trophy, it felt very different. It felt special, he said. Beyond the celebrations, he pointed to the willingness of senior players to guide younger teammates as one of the defining aspects of the dressing room. The second thing is that, in every moment, I learned from a player. If there was a doubt, I asked Josh Hazlewood what we could do in that situation. He explained it to me with a lot of love, saying we could do this. It was mind-blowing for me because I wasn't even thinking about it. Then he explained it to me, and I thought yes, we could do this too, he said. Mangesh said similar interactions with Bhuvneshwar Kumar helped him solve technical and tactical issues quickly. The same thing happened with Bhuvi Bhaiya. I was lagging in a few things. I asked him a few things, and he told me that if I did this, it would be good. So it got better immediately. Then I felt that it was very good. I learned a lot. The things that were troubling me, they had so much experience. So they had a solution. Whatever happened, I would go and ask immediately. That, Bhuvi Bhaiya, this is happening. And this is happening. So he would give me a solution immediately, Mangesh said of Bhuvneshwar. Despite spending much of the season outside the playing XI, Mangesh said the coaching staff constantly reminded him to remain match-ready. I was always told that you have to be prepared. DK sir and Andy sir told me that you have to be prepared. You can play a match anytime. If anyone gets injured, you are going to play. So, they told me that you can play anytime. The message shaped his preparation throughout the tournament. So, I had to be prepared for every match. So, I used to go to every practice session in the same way. I used to practise. Now, what happened is not in our hands. And, a very good team combination was formed. So, the team kept going in the same way, he stated. For Mangesh, the team's larger objective remained more important than individual opportunities. And, we all have the same motive. The motive for our going to the IPL is to win the trophy. So, that was the main motive. And I was prepared that, whenever I got a chance, as the coach had told me, I could play whenever something happened. So, I was prepared in the same way. Having played under Rajat Patidar at both RCB and MPL, where he represents JK sports-owned Gwalior Cheetahs, Mangesh reserved special praise for the captain's man-management skills and calm demeanour. Some people have still said this on social media. But what I would like to say is that it is completely pressure-free to play under him, he noted. According to Mangesh, Patidar's greatest strength lies in trusting players and backing their instincts. He gives plans. First, he asks for our plan. If you give another plan to a bowler, he will not be able to do it at all, because he also has a plan. So, it happened to me in the Mushtaq Ali Trophy as well. I got a little run on my plan. So, he gave his plan, saying, You can do this now. And I followed his plan and got a wicket there. The approach, he said, continued in the MPL as well. Like, I played in the last MPL match. So, he asked me for my plan, and I did well on it. So, he doesn't have any such attitude, and neither is he egoistic, saying I am the captain. He doesn't look like that at all. Mangesh also highlighted Patidar's composure during difficult phases of a game. And the second thing is that when the bowler gets hit, the captain shouts a lot. But he is not like that at all. He is completely calm. If he gets hit on that plan, he gives another plan. And if you execute it, he says nothing at all. Like, if you execute it well, it's fine. If you did it wrong, he himself says that it was wrong. For a fast bowler operating under pressure, such support can make a significant difference. So, that is one thing. He doesn't give any expression at all. Because as a bowler, I feel that if I bowl and get a six, my first look goes to my captain to see what he has to say. And he is not like that at all. He doesn't get angry at all. So, it feels very motivating that, yes, something like this is not happening. Asked about the biggest lesson from being part of a title-winning dressing room, Mangesh pointed to one quality above all else: discipline. The biggest learning was that everyone was very disciplined about their work. Everyone is having fun, but they know that when we go to the ground, we have to react, be aggressive, and be on our game. It is very chill outside. The best thing was the discipline of all the players. He observed that elite players stick to routines regardless of circumstances. Everyone is doing their thing daily. It is not like they are doing something different every day. So the discipline I saw is why they are completely different. Using Hazlewood and Bhuvneshwar as examples, Mangesh explained how attention to small details separates top professionals from the rest. Like, Josh Hazlewood comes, and he does his warm-up first. Then he goes and bowls. It is not like he wont warm up if hes feeling good on a particular day. Same with Bhuvi. He does everything first, then comes to the ground. And I think there is no such thing as a big thing. Because small things make it big. We always take our warm-up lightly. Like, I will bowl or whatever. But that is the most important role for a player. That you warm up well. So I liked that, he said. The discussion on discipline inevitably led to Virat, as Mangesh agreed, Kohli has given a different definition to discipline, because everyone knows about his discipline and how seriously he takes everything. Looking ahead, Mangesh is focused on becoming a fully professional after securing an IPL contract. I have planned many strategies for how I want to improve. And I am still playing MPL, so I don't have that much time. But I am talking to my mentor. This time, he is the team's trainer, so I am playing with him. I have done a gym session with him, he said. He added that better resources and structured planning have strengthened his confidence. So I am working on those things gradually, and I have planned everything. Because RCB has given me so much money. So I have to become a pro. And I am absolutely ready for that. And I am feeling good. Now, the things I want, the things that were lacking, are now easily available. So this time, I absolutely feel I will reach the next level. Be it fitness or bodybuilding, Mangesh stated. As for his performances in the ongoing MPL, where his economy rate has been on the higher side in the opening matches, Mangesh remains unconcerned and believes it is only a matter of time before rhythm returns. I feel that you can say every day is not the same in cricket. Sometimes, you get hit. Sometimes, you don't. But in the last two games, I have felt that it is just that runs are being conceded. I am doing well. Some things are happening here and there, Mangesh expressed. As for his performances in the ongoing MPL, where his economy rate has been on the higher side in the opening matches, Mangesh remains unconcerned and believes it is only a matter of time before rhythm returns. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Confident that there are no major issues in his game, Mangesh is backing himself to improve as the tournament progresses. As for the rest, I don't feel that anything is missing, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Women's T20 World Cup 2026 warm-up: Kapp, Wolvaardt take SA past Ireland
Scotland thumped Netherlands by 58 runs in Derby as Fraser, Fontenla and Maqsood shared seven wickets
MPL T20 Scindia Cup: Rewa Bowl Out Bundelkhand Bulls For 74 For 9 Wickets Win
Madhya Pradesh League: Rewa Jaguars produced a clinical all-round display to outclass Bundelkhand Bulls by nine wickets in the Madhya Pradesh League (MPL) T20 Scindia Cup 2026 at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Saturday. After winning the toss and opting to bowl, the Jaguars seized control of the contest from the outset. Bundelkhand Bulls captain and opener Abhishek Pathak survived a scare when a catch was dropped off the very first ball of the innings, but Rewa quickly made amends. Ramveer Gujjar struck on the next delivery to remove Harsh Gawali for a golden duck, giving his side the perfect start. The early breakthrough triggered a collapse as the Bulls failed to recover from the pressure applied by the Jaguars' disciplined bowling attack. Wickets fell at regular intervals, preventing the batting side from building any meaningful partnerships. By the 12th over, Bundelkhand Bulls were reeling at 58/6 and never managed to regain momentum. Ramveer Gujjar emerged as the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 16 in 2.3 overs. He received excellent support from Sagar Solanki, Rohit Rajawat, and Prithviraj Singh Tomar, who claimed two wickets apiece as the Jaguars bundled out Bundelkhand Bulls for just 74 in 15.3 overs. Amid the collapse, Parth Goswami was the lone bright spot for the Bulls. The batter showed some resilience and fought his way to 25 runs off 30 balls before being trapped lbw by Rohit Rajawat. He was the only player from his side to reach double figures, underlining the extent of the batting struggles. Ramveer Gujjar emerged as the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3 for 16 in 2.3 overs. He received excellent support from Sagar Solanki, Rohit Rajawat, and Prithviraj Singh Tomar, who claimed two wickets apiece as the Jaguars bundled out Bundelkhand Bulls for just 74 in 15.3 overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Thanks to Raghuwanshi's blistering innings, Rewa Jaguars raced to the target in just 5.1 overs, finishing on 75/1 and sealing a commanding nine-wicket victory. The comprehensive win showcased the Jaguars' dominance with both ball and bat as they wrapped up the match in emphatic fashion. Article Source: IANS
Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals: Tushar Deshpande produced a sensational all-round performance to guide Mumbai South Central Maratha Royals to a 25-run victory over Bandra Blasters in the T20 Mumbai League 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Saturday. Tushar emerged as the difference-maker, first rescuing the Royals with an unbeaten 55 off just 25 balls before returning figures of 2/12 in three overs. His all-round effort proved decisive as the Royals successfully defended 203/8. Chasing the target, the Blasters were led by their top order. Skipper Suved Parkar continued his fine form with 56 off 40 balls, his third half-century of the tournament, along with a century earlier in the season. Prateek Ravishankar provided early momentum with a brisk 47 off 22 deliveries along with Parkar, while Jay Jain added a quickfire 46 off 23 balls. The trio kept Bandra in the hunt for most of the chase, but once they were dismissed, the innings quickly lost momentum. The middle and lower order failed to build on the platform, with eight batters managing single-digit scores as Bandra were bowled out for 178 in 17.5 overs, thanks to some quality bowling by the Royals. Earlier, the Royals had slipped to 36/3 inside the first five overs after being asked to bat. Ayaz Khan (31) and Chinmay Sutar (31) made useful contributions but failed to convert their starts. With wickets falling regularly, Tushar played a brilliant rescue act, smashing six sixes in his unbeaten knock and sharing a crucial 73-run stand with Rohan Raje (28), lifting the Royals to a strong total. The trio kept Bandra in the hunt for most of the chase, but once they were dismissed, the innings quickly lost momentum. The middle and lower order failed to build on the platform, with eight batters managing single-digit scores as Bandra were bowled out for 178 in 17.5 overs, thanks to some quality bowling by the Royals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score MSC Maratha Royals 203/7 in 20 overs (Tushar Deshpande 55 not out, Chinmay Sutar 31, Ayaz Khan 31; Om Keshkamat 2/28) beat Bandra Blasters 178 in 17.5 overs (Suved Parker 56, Prateek Ravishankar 47; Tushar Deshpande 2/12) by 25 runs. Article Source: IANS
UPDATE 1-Tennis-Andreeva comes of age with Roland Garros triumph over surprise package Chwalinska
The 19-year-old Russian swept aside surprise finalist Maja Chwalinska 6-3 6-2 on a blustery Court Philippe Chatrier, where the Pole appeared frozen by the magnitude of the occasion
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Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: India opener KL Rahul said he deliberately avoided curbing his natural strokeplay while making the transition from T20 cricket to the Test format, a mindset that helped him compile a patient century on the opening day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan. Rahul's 100, along with captain Shubman Gill's unbeaten 103 and Sai Sudharsan's 81, powered India to a commanding 368/3 at stumps on Day 1 at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. Reflecting on the challenge of moving from months of T20 cricket straight into the longest format, Rahul admitted that overthinking can often become a trap for batters. Sometimes you sit and overanalyse and try to play completely differently to T20 cricket. Something that I consciously tried was not to restrict my shots, but also be aware of what kind of shots I can play on this wicket against what kind of bowlers, Rahul said after the day's play. The right-hander revealed that maintaining a balance between attacking instincts and Test-match discipline was central to his preparation. That's something that I thought about in the last week leading up to this Test match. That's what I tried to do. In the morning, I think I did play a few shots more than what I would have played ideally, but it didn't make me frustrated or angry at myself. Rahul said he was keen to continue backing his strengths rather than become overly cautious simply because he was playing red-ball cricket. I was okay with playing shots and playing to the merit of the ball. That's what I was trying to do more, he added. The opener also expressed satisfaction at how quickly he was able to adjust from the fast-paced nature of the IPL to the patience required in Test cricket. I'm really happy that I could get some time in the middle and make that switch from T20 to Test cricket in a couple of days. That was the most pleasing thing. Rahul credited India's preparation in New Chandigarh for helping him understand the nature of the surface before the match. It wasn't coming on at all. It was a really slow and low sort of wicket, which we did expect. We had a few days of training here, and it was pretty similar to this. I had to get used to spending time in the middle and letting the ball come to you. Rahul credited India's preparation in New Chandigarh for helping him understand the nature of the surface before the match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rahul's century, his 12th in Tests, anchored India's innings after an early wicket and set the platform for a dominant opening day against Afghanistan. Article Source: IANS
WI vs SL 2nd ODI: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
WI vs SL 2nd ODI Cricket Tips : Sri Lanka had a great start to the tour of West Indies. They clinched a 41-run win in the first ODI over West Indies in Jamaica. Captain Kusal Mendis took his team to a comfortable win, while Pathum Nissanka and Dusmantha Chameera played important roles in the wins. Sri Lanka will take that confidence into the second ODI, which will begin at 1 AM IST on Sunday at Sabina Park in Kingston. West Indies need this win to stay alive in the series. But the bigger issue with them is the consistency. Shai Hope and his men will look for a better show to level the series. WI vs SL: Match Details Date : June 7, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 1:00 AM IST Venue : Sabina Park, Kingston, Jamaica WI vs SL: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the WI vs SL 2nd ODI in India through the FanCode mobile app or website. WI vs SL: Head-to-Head in ODI Total Matches : 69 West Indies : 32 Sri Lanka : 34 No - result : 03 Tied : 00 WI vs SL: Ground Pitch Report The wicket played well in the first game, and one can expect another good track for the second game. But traditionally this is a slow track, and the wicket will get slow with time. The team that bats second has done well here in ODIs. WI vs SL: Possible XIs West Indies : Justin Greaves, John Campbell, Shai Hope (c & wk), Keacy Carty, Sherfane Rutherford, Gudakesh Motie, Roston Chase, Matthew Forde, Alzarri Joseph, Shamar Joseph, Jayden Seales. Sri Lanka : Pathum Nissanka, Kamindu Mendis, Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Charith Asalanka, Pavan Rathnayake, Janith Liyanage, Priyanath Rathnayake, Wanindu Hasaranga, Milan Maheesh Theekshana, Dushmantha Chameera, Asitha Fernando. WI vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Kusal Mendis and Shai Hope are two in-form batters in this game. They will be the ones to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Matthew Forde and Dushmantha Chameera did well in the first game and used the conditions brilliantly. Today Match Prediction : Sri Lanka have the momentum and form on their side. Hence, we predict Sri Lanka to win the 2nd ODI. WI vs SL Match 2nd ODI, Today Match WI vs SL, WI vs SL Prediction, WI vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for West Indies vs Sri Lanka Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions
Gen Next Academy: On a fine Saturday afternoon, Manish Ojha was doing what he has done for a long time making his students go through their paces at his Gen Next Academy in the Sampatchak area of Patna. Amidst the focus on the trainees perfecting their craft in the afternoon training session, Ojha got a call from Sanjeev Sooryavanshi. The message was short, but electric: his son Vaibhav Sooryavanshi got his India senior mens T20I call-up to tours of Ireland, England, and the Asian Games event in Japan. Hearing that, Ojha was left really delighted and congratulated Sanjeev. It was expected that, the way Vaibhav was performing well in the T20 format, he would get the call-up. He performed well in the U-19 World Cup win and then showed his explosive strokeplay in the IPL. So, it was quite obvious and expected for me that he would be given a chance. But when he would be given a chance, I had no idea. Now that it has come, it's a great moment. After I congratulated his father, he, in return, congratulated me, Ojha recalled in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Saturday. The mutual congratulations felt earned because what Sooryavanshi has done at 15 years of age isn't merely precocious - it is historic. In the words of chief selector Ajit Agarkar, Sooryavanshi had almost forced his way into the T20I squad. It's not hard to see why. In the 2026 IPL, Sooryavanshi made a staggering 776 runs at a strike rate of 237.30, and single-handedly dragged Rajasthan Royals to Qualifier 2. He hit 72 sixes - breaking Chris Gayle's record for the most maximums in a single season. He became the first player in IPL history to be named both the Most Valuable Player and the Best Emerging Player. Before any of that, Sooryavanshi wowed the world by walking out and making a whirlwind 175 from 80 balls - 15 fours, 15 sixes, the highest ever individual score in an ICC World Cup final - as India posted 411/9. He finished the tournament with 439 runs at a competition-best strike rate of 169.49, a World Cup-record 30 sixes, and the Player of the Final as well as Player of the Tournament awards in his pocket. Before those senior assignments, he will line up for India A in the 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka from June 9-21. He is, by some distance, the youngest player selected in an Indian men's squad since a teenage Sachin Tendulkar announced himself to the world in 1989. Back in Patna, Ojha doesn't need match footage or highlight reels to remember how the Sooryavanshi journey began - the memories in his mind are sharper than anything. I often talk to Sanjeev ji about the journey from the start to the present. All of those memories are still vivid in my mind - the first time I met him, the first practice session he did under me, him coming to the academy and going back home - all these memories appear in front of my eyes now. Not just in Bihar, there are thousands of cricket coaches in India. But it was God's will that Vaibhav's father came to me with him at my academy. It was God's grace that he made me capable enough to put in a lot of hard work on Vaibhav and invest heavily in him. It is all due to God's blessings that Vaibhav has reached a very high level and made me very proud. Without God's grace, all these things don't happen in life. What strikes Ojha most isn't just the talent - it's the trajectory of Sooryavanshis improvement in 2026. The improvement has been visible, quantifiable, and almost startling in its consistency. His level of maturity is improving at every level. His execution capacity in terms of stroke play is improving. There are a lot of differences between playing at a local, state, and international level. But Vaibhav has maintained the intent of their game on all three platforms. In fact, I would say that you can clearly see the improvement in their strength. All the experts who have seen him play can easily point out the difference between how he batted in the first IPL and the second IPL. When he played the initial matches of U-19, after he reached there for the first time and from then to the difference in his game in the World Cup, there has been a lot of difference in terms of maturity, shot selection, and execution. Day by day, Vaibhav is growing as a player. He is improving his skill sets and executing them better. You can see his performance - it has improved by three times since the last IPL. Yet, for all the records and the fanfare and the historic comparisons to Tendulkar, Ojha is careful not to let the moment be mistaken for the destination. I would say that this is the first step in the ladder for Vaibhav after earning selection into the T20I team, as he has to serve Team India for a long time. When he played the initial matches of U-19, after he reached there for the first time and from then to the difference in his game in the World Cup, there has been a lot of difference in terms of maturity, shot selection, and execution. Day by day, Vaibhav is growing as a player. He is improving his skill sets and executing them better. You can see his performance - it has improved by three times since the last IPL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Fifteen years old - barely old enough to remember Dhoni lifting the 2011 World Cup, and yet hes the most enthralling batting talent since Tendulkar captured the worlds attention. Hes already rewriting records and becoming the batting lynchpin in a line-up with more established batters. Sooryavanshi's ladder to a permanent India berth has only just appeared, and Ojha already knows where it leads to and how long this dizzying climb will last. Article Source: IANS
Who Is Manav Suthar? The Story Of Rajasthan Spinner Making Test Debut For India Against Afghanistan
Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Rajasthan spin-bowling all-rounder Manav Suthar's steady rise through the domestic ranks reached a defining milestone on Saturday when he made his Test debut for India in the one-off match against Afghanistan at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. The 23-year-old left-arm spinner was named in India's playing XI ahead of fellow spin-bowling all-rounder Harsh Dubey, ending speculation over who would get the nod as the team management looked to assess options ahead of the upcoming two-Test tour of Sri Lanka. Suthar received Test cap No. 319 from senior spinner Kuldeep Yadav, becoming India's first specialist spin-bowling Test debutant since Axar Patel made his debut in 2021. Hailing from Rajasthan and having sharpened his skills through the state's domestic circuit, Suthar has built an impressive first-class record. In 29 first-class matches, he has claimed 129 wickets, establishing himself as one of the country's most promising young spinners. He has also featured in 25 List-A matches and 29 T20 games. Earlier this year, Suthar was part of the Gujarat Titans setup in IPL 2026 under the leadership of India's Test captain Shubman Gill, further enhancing his exposure to top-level cricket. His talent had also come into the spotlight during India's preparations for the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he reportedly impressed senior stars Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli while working as a net bowler. An admirer of Ravichandran Ashwin, Suthar's ability to generate a sharp turn and extract bite from the surface has earned praise from several cricketing experts. Ashwin himself had highlighted the youngster's ability to impart significant revolutions on the ball, identifying him as a spinner with immense potential. Moments after receiving his maiden Test cap, an emotional Suthar admitted that fulfilling his childhood dream was difficult to put into words. I can't even express these emotions in words. To be honest, it's the best feeling of my life so far. A Test cap is a dream for every cricketer. It gave me a lot of motivation, and receiving this cap from a legend like Kuldeep bhai, who has served Team India for so long, makes me very grateful, Suthar said in a video shared by the BCCI. Presenting the cap, Kuldeep welcomed the youngster into the Indian dressing room and urged him to trust his strengths on the biggest stage. Cap number 319, Manav Suthar. Firstly, congratulations on making your Test debut for India. It's my privilege to present you with this cap. This is a very special moment in your cricket journey, and we wish you all the very best. We hope you have a long and successful Test career. Presenting the cap, Kuldeep welcomed the youngster into the Indian dressing room and urged him to trust his strengths on the biggest stage. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With India beginning a transition phase in their spin department and preparing for challenging conditions in Sri Lanka later this year, Suthar now has an opportunity to convert years of domestic consistency into a long-term international career. Article Source: IANS
Suryakumar Responds To Captaincy Axe With Message For Team India, Congratulates Vaibhav
T20 World Cup: India's T20 World Cup winner Suryakumar Yadav has broken his silence after being removed as the men's T20I captain, extending his best wishes to the national team and congratulating teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on earning his maiden international call-up. Hours after the BCCI announced Shreyas Iyer as India's new T20I captain and left Suryakumar out of the squads for the upcoming tours of Ireland, England, and the Asian Games, the 35-year-old took to social media for the first time. In an Instagram story, Suryakumar shared a photograph of the Indian team and wrote, Wishing this highly skilled group all the best for the challenges ahead. The brief message came shortly after chief selector Ajit Agarkar described the decision to move on from Suryakumar as captain as a ough one, despite him leading India to the T20 World Cup title earlier this year. With regards to Surya, obviously, it's a tough one, having just won the World Cup. Someone who's led you to the World Cup, it's not the easiest thing to try and change, Agarkar said in the press conference. Suryakumars recent struggles with the bat also influenced the decision. The 35-year-old endured a lean T20 World Cup campaign and followed it up with a disappointing IPL 2026 season, scoring 270 runs in 13 innings as the Mumbai Indians finished ninth. Suryakumar also reserved special praise for 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who was named in India's T20I squad on Saturday following a sensational IPL campaign. Sharing a separate message on social media, Suryakumar wrote, You have earned it and how. Super excited to follow your journey. Suryakumar also reserved special praise for 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who was named in India's T20I squad on Saturday following a sensational IPL campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The teenager is now on the verge of creating history. If he makes his international debut during the upcoming series, Vaibhav could become India's youngest-ever international cricketer, surpassing the record held by legendary batter Sachin Tendulkar, who made his Test debut at the age of 16 years and 205 days in 1989. Article Source: IANS
Got High Hopes From Sooryavanshi, I Think He Just Has Picked Himself Really, Says Agarkar
Secretary Devajit Saikia: India's chief selector Ajit Agarkar said he had high hopes for teenage batter Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after giving him a maiden T20I call-up to tours of Ireland, England, and the Asian Games, adding the youngster had picked himself into the squad with his explosive IPL 2026 performances. Sooryavanshi had a stellar IPL 2026 for the Rajasthan Royals and was the leading run-getter in the competition with 776 runs, including a hundred and five half-centuries. He also bagged the most valuable player and emerging player of the competition awards in the competition. What do you say, we've seen what he can do. You saw, even towards those playoffs, almost singlehandedly carried the Rajasthan Royals. For a young kid, I don't need to talk about how well he's batting or how well he's playing. It's not just this season. He's obviously made a great start last season. To back it up for a young kid in a competition that's as competitive and has a highpressure environment, and how explosive he can be, and a gamechanger that he can be. So we've, like everyone else that's watched cricket, or at least watched T20 cricket in India, we've got high hopes of him, and I think he just has picked himself really, said Agarkar in the press conference at the BCCI HQ on Saturday. Sooryavanshis selection comes after he landed in Sri Lanka as a member of the India A team for the 50-over triseries starting on June 9 in Dambulla. Secretary Devajit Saikia said the priority would be to send Sooryavanshi to Ireland and England, while adding that selectors and technical staff are monitoring his every step to ensure his future is handled with care. But we can all see what kind of talent he has, and we're hopeful that if and when he gets an opportunity to actually play for the country, he shows the same sort of ability that he's shown. Obviously, there will be tougher challenges when you play for your country, but he's shown great promise and temperament. So we're all very hopeful, like everyone is. I think he's picked himself through his performances. You always deliberate, because, like the question before, there's so much talent around, especially when it comes to T20 cricket at this point, but it tells you a lot that his performances have made us pick him, and we're very hopeful. With regards to red ball, I mean, he's a kid, and let him just be as he's just starting his journey. I'm sure when the season starts, the domestic season starts, and he plays for his team, plays a little bit of red ball cricket, we'll wait and observe at this point, why jump the gun? I think we're very excited with what he's doing in T20 cricket. Hopefully, we as selectors or the BCCI and the coaching staff can help him push in the right direction. So at this point, we're just focused on, you know, what he can bring to the T20 team, and we'll take one step at a time, elaborated Agarkar. On Rajat Patidar missing out on selection despite being in stellar form to help Royal Challengers Bengaluru defend their IPL title, Agarkar said, You discuss a host of players when you sit there. I don't think you just sit and put 15 names down. So that's always the case. We think all these 15 players are deserving. I think there are a lot of good players in India. We've seen over the last couple of months in the IPL, or if you follow domestic cricket through the season, there are plenty of guys who are you'd think they're good enough to walk into the team. But the guys who are playing are doing as well as we just won a World Cup a couple of months back. So no, I think we picked a really good one. 16 for the Ireland and England series and 15 for the Asian Games. There'll always be players missing out, but like I said, you can only pick 15, and we're very happy with this one. On Jasprit Bumrahs inclusion for the Asian Games, he said, We know how important he is. Plus the WTC cycle, we've still got a chance to enter the final. If he plays well enough over these next nine Tests, this one is not part of WTC, the Afghanistan one. But if you can have Jasprit play the majority of those games and still keep him fit and healthy, it's always the thing. I mean, there's a lot of T20 cricket. You can always bring him back. Asian Games he will be there. So, the main aim is to try and keep him fit for the Tests and the one-dayers. I don't know whether worry is the right word, but we obviously need to improve our (Test) performances. I think England was good and the South African series probably didn't go to plan, but we still have a chance if we play well enough. We know we've got the players, but we've got to play better. On Hardik Pandya not named in T20I squads, Agarkar said, With regards to Hardik, firstly, he's part of the oneday squad right now against Afghanistan. Obviously, if we can get him playing well and keep him fit for oneday cricket, I don't think he's played oneday cricket for a while. That is, at this point, the main objective. We can always bring him back. It also gives us an opportunity to give someone like Nitish Reddy a few opportunities with T20 cricket. So there will be a little bit of rest and rotation with regard to T20. But the main objective is to see if he can start playing well and stay healthy with 50over cricket with the World Cup in, what, a year and a half. He gives us a lot of balance. The World Cup is in South Africa. If he's bowling well enough, I mean, we'll assess how we go in the next few months. That's primarily the reason at this point. On Prince Yadav being included in T20I teams for the Ireland and England series, Agarkar said, It's domestic performance, really. We saw him in the Vijay Hazare Trophy enough this year, and he looked impressive. I don't think he played a lot of red ball cricket last year, but the white ball stuff was really good. Then to back it up in the IPL against really good quality batters - when you play a lot of games in the IPL, it's always going to be up and down, particularly when most teams get 200 for fun these days. So, he can bowl under pressure, which is the first thing that you try and see if a guy can do that day in, day out, and has the skill set, obviously can move the ball, bowls towards the end of the innings. On Prince Yadav being included in T20I teams for the Ireland and England series, Agarkar said, It's domestic performance, really. We saw him in the Vijay Hazare Trophy enough this year, and he looked impressive. I don't think he played a lot of red ball cricket last year, but the white ball stuff was really good. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Not first time, we've seen him before, but he bowled well this season, and that caught our eye, and so he was always there in our planning. This Afghanistan series coming up gives us an opportunity to see what he can do in 50over cricket, but in T20, we've all seen that. He's got the skill set. So, again, like the guys that we picked, they're always hopeful. Article Source: IANS
One-off-Test: 'Apart From That Technical Flaw, Sai Sudharsan Looked Very Composed', Says Saba Karim
Sai Sudharsan: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim praised Sai Sudharsans composure during his fluent innings against Afghanistan in the one-off Test but pointed out a technical issue against spin bowling that he believes will be closely monitored by India head coach Gautam Gambhir. Sudharsan, who was handed the crucial No. 3 role by the team management, made a confident 81 after surviving an early reprieve when Afghanistan wicketkeeper Rahmanullah Gurbaz failed to hold a chance created by an outside edge. Karim said India's struggles against quality spin in recent times made Sudharsans technique an area of interest for the coaching staff. Gautam Gambhir would be keeping a very close eye on this because I think the biggest challenge for the Indian batters over the past season has been how they cope against high-quality spin bowling, Karim told Jio Hotstar. The former selector noted that Sudharsan was fortunate to survive after a technical lapse against spin. On this occasion, Sai Sudharsan appeared to be hiding his bat behind the pad, which suggested that his first line of defence was the pad rather than the bat. That resulted in a thick outside edge, which Rahmanullah Gurbaz should have taken at first slip, he observed. Despite that moment, Karim was impressed by the left-handers overall temperament and shot-making during his innings. Apart from that technical flaw, he looked very composed overall and played a few delightful shots on the on side, including a straight drive. His shot selection and the way he adjusted to the pace and bounce of the surface were quite good, he said. Despite that moment, Karim was impressed by the left-handers overall temperament and shot-making during his innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sudharsans assured 81 underlined why India have persisted with the young left-hander at No. 3, with his innings playing a key role in helping the hosts build a strong platform against Afghanistan despite the missed chance that could have ended his stay much earlier. Article Source: IANS
Yashasvi Jaiswal: Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar praised Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul for laying a strong foundation in the opening session of the one-off Test against Afghanistan, saying the pair helped calm nerves in the dressing room on a surface whose behaviour was still uncertain on the first morning. India reached 96/1 at lunch on Day 1 after electing to bat, with Jaiswal scoring a brisk 24 before being dismissed. Rahul, who was unbeaten on 37 at the break, went on to convert his start into a century, while Sai Sudharsan added a valuable 81 before falling later in the innings. Gavaskar feels that India would be pleased with the way their openers handled the challenging early conditions. On day one, when you get off to a start of almost a hundred and have lost just one wicket, you've done really well. They managed to negate whatever early assistance the seam bowlers received, Gavaskar told Jio Hotstar. The batting great felt Jaiswal was unfortunate to lose his wicket after looking fluent during his brief stay at the crease. Yashasvi was unlucky to get out, strangled down the leg side. On the first day, there are always nerves in the dressing room about what the pitch is going to do because nobody really knows, so he and Rahul helped settle those nerves, he added. Gavaskar was particularly impressed with the approach shown by both batters, despite Rahul surviving a couple of early scares. The way they batted was impressive, and some of the shots Jaiswal played were particularly pleasing. He didn't score too many runs, and Rahul had a couple of close shaves early on, but overall, I thought both of them batted really well, he said. Former England spinner Graeme Swann also backed Rahul to make his start count after surviving the difficult opening phase against Afghanistans seam attack. First and foremost, you'll probably be thinking, Right, I've done the hard bit by getting through the crucial first two hours. Now is the time to be patient. They are relatively inexperienced spinners in the grand scheme of things, so they are bound to bowl the occasional loose delivery, Swann said. Former England spinner Graeme Swann also backed Rahul to make his start count after surviving the difficult opening phase against Afghanistans seam attack. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rahuls eventual century and Sudharsans composed 81 ensured India capitalised on the solid platform established during the opening session. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: KL Rahul, Gill Hit Tons As India End Day One At 368/3 Against Afghanistan
Opener KL Rahul: Opener KL Rahul and captain Shubman Gill struck commanding centuries after B. Sai Sudharsan impressed with a fluent 81 as India ended the opening day of the one-off Test against Afghanistan in a dominant position at 368/3 in 85 overs on Friday. After opting to bat, India were tested early by Afghanistan's disciplined pace attack. Yashasvi Jaiswal looked positive in his 24 off 32 balls, hitting five boundaries, but fell to Mohammad Saleem Safi after edging a leg-side delivery to wicketkeeper Afsar Zazai, leaving India at 41/1. Rahul, meanwhile, endured a difficult start and survived a major scare on 16 when Afghanistan declined to review a caught-behind appeal despite an edge. The experienced opener gradually settled alongside Sai Sudharsan, who looked assured from the outset, though he offered a chance that was spilt by Rahmanullah Gurbaz before lunch. India reached 96/1 at the interval, with Rahul and Sai beginning to wrest control from the visitors. The second session belonged entirely to the pair. Rahul emerged with greater intent after lunch and brought up his 21st Test fifty, while Sai continued to impress with his composure against both pace and spin. The left-hander used the sweep effectively against the spinners and rotated the strike smartly as the partnership crossed three figures. Afghanistan's bowlers worked hard without much reward, though Saleem Safi generated reverse swing and created opportunities. Sai survived another chance on 59 when an outside edge evaded the diving wicketkeeper, while Rahul escaped an lbw review thanks to a faint inside edge. The breakthrough finally arrived when Saleem Safi dismissed Sai for a well-crafted 81 off 104 balls, ending a superb 139-run second-wicket stand that had transformed India's position. Gill settled quickly at No. 4 and provided immediate momentum with a series of crisp boundaries. By Tea, India had advanced to 209/2, with Rahul unbeaten on 81 and Gill looking increasingly comfortable. The final session further tilted the contest in India's favour. Rahul completed his 12th Test century, reaching the landmark with a flick for two runs before eventually falling for exactly 100, caught behind by Gurbaz off Ziaur Rahman Sharifi. It was the third successive occasion he had been dismissed on the century mark. Gill then assumed control, batting with authority and patience to bring up a century of his own. Alongside him, Rishabh Pant curbed his natural aggression to compile an unbeaten 50 as the pair added an unbroken century partnership. Home boy Gill remained unbeaten on 103, while Pant was not out on 50, leaving India firmly in command heading into Day 2. Gill then assumed control, batting with authority and patience to bring up a century of his own. Alongside him, Rishabh Pant curbed his natural aggression to compile an unbeaten 50 as the pair added an unbroken century partnership. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 368/3 in 85 overs (Shubman Gill 103*, KL Rahul 100, Sai Sudharsan 81; Mohammad Saleem Safi 2-50) against Afghanistan. Article Source: IANS
BCA President Harsh Vardhan Congratulates Sooryavanshi On India Selection
Bihar Cricket Association President Harsh: Congratulating Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on his selection to the Indian team, Bihar Cricket Association President Harsh Vardhan described it as a historic achievement for Bihar cricket. He said that Vaibhav's success reflects not only his individual talent and dedication but also the continuous growth of cricket in Bihar and the emergence of exceptional talent from the state. Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's selection in the Indian team is a historic achievement for Bihar cricket. This is not just the success of an individual player but a reflection of the continuous growth of cricket in Bihar, the hard work of our players, and the emergence of exceptional talent from the state. Vaibhav has proven through his performances that cricketers from Bihar have the ability to succeed at the highest level. I am confident that he will make a significant impact on the Indian team and continue to bring pride to both the country and Bihar. I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to him for a bright international career, Harsh Vardhan said. With this selection, Vaibhav Sorryavanshi is set to represent India for the first time and make his international T20 debut. Having emerged from Bihar and showcased his talent at both the national and international levels, Vaibhav Suryavanshi captured the attention of the cricketing world with his outstanding performances in IPL 2026. Representing the Rajasthan Royals, he displayed aggressive batting throughout the season and finished as the tournament's highest run-scorer, winning the Orange Cap. Vaibhav also set a new IPL record by smashing 72 sixes during the season, the most by any batter in a single IPL edition. Having emerged from Bihar and showcased his talent at both the national and international levels, Vaibhav Suryavanshi captured the attention of the cricketing world with his outstanding performances in IPL 2026. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bihar Cricket Association secretary Ziaul Arfin said, Vaibhav Suryavanshi's achievement is an inspiration for millions of young cricketers in Bihar. He has reached this milestone through talent, discipline, and relentless hard work. His performances in the IPL were extraordinary, and his selection to the Indian team marks an important chapter in his cricketing journey. We are confident that Vaibhav will make valuable contributions to the Indian team and establish himself among the country's leading cricketers in the years to come. On behalf of the Bihar Cricket Association, I extend my heartfelt congratulations and best wishes for his bright future. Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Was A Stand-out Candidate With Enough Experience Now, Tough Call On Surya, Says Agarkar
T20 World Cup: India chief selector Ajit Agarkar said Shreyas Iyer was a standout candidate with the experience to become the new mens T20I skipper, while admitting it was a tough call to move on altogether from Suryakumar Yadav despite him leading the team to winning the World Cup three months ago. Suryakumar, 35, has struggled with the bat in recent months, managing only 242 runs in nine T20 World Cup innings, with his unbeaten 84 against the United States the lone standout. His form dipped further in IPL 2026, where he scored just 270 runs in 13 innings at an average of 20.76 as Mumbai Indians finished ninth in the tenteam points table. With Shreyas taking over, Suryakumar has been totally omitted from the squads for tours of Ireland, England and the Asian Games. Iyer, 31, last played a T20I in December 2023 but boasts of strong captaincy credentials in the IPL. He led Kolkata Knight Riders to the title in 2024, guided Punjab Kings to a runnersup finish in 2025, and steered Delhi Capitals to the final in 2020. I mean, with regards to Shreyas, obviously, we've seen what he's done over the last few years, leading different franchises, obviously, won once, finals twice, and probably had a tougher season this year after a great start. So we've seen everything that a captain possibly can. His own performances have been really good. He was quite close to getting in that World Cup squad as well. Obviously, with Surya still there, there was no room for him. So he is, in my opinion, a standout candidate with enough experience now having led in the T20 format. This is obviously a different challenge, said Agarkar in the press conference at BCCI HQ on Saturday. On Suryakumars removal, Agarkar admitted it was a tough call. With regards to Surya, obviously, it's a tough one, having just won the World Cup. But as it happens, after most World Cups, you try and reassess what your best way forward is. Partly his own form, but also looking at the next twoyear cycle or a little bit more than two years now till the next World Cup. We thought this was the best way forward and like I said, Surya is a welldeserving captain. I mean, of course, it's a tough decision. Someone who's led you to the World Cup, it's not the easiest thing to try and change. But like I said, we've not had any international cricket after that World Cup. Partly the form, but partly also how we go forward is always at the back of your mind. Going ahead with a new captain, in this case, Shreyas, was in our opinion, added Agarkar. Tilak Varma has been named as the new vicecaptain and Agarkar stated it was another call made keeping the long-term vision in mind. I mean, Shubman Gill was vicecaptain leading into that World Cup when we made a call to obviously have two keepers at the top and he missed out. Then Axar Patel was vicecaptain and just replacing Shubman Gill. So, no, I think we were, again, like Shreyas Iyer, obviously you're looking at what's the best thing for the next twoyear cycle. Tilak, firstly, he's a terrific player and this gives him an opportunity to learn the job as well, just in case if that need arises ever. Further speaking on Shreyas and Tilak, Agarkar explained, It's, again, this is a clean slate almost. We played the World Cup in USA and Caribbean in 2024 June, and this was sort of February, March, which is not even two years really. But the next one, we've got a bit more time. Like I said, I think Shreyas absolutely deserves it with his performances, one, particularly with the bat. I think first, he should be good enough to be a player in the team. Then his performances as captain, and obviously, having won it once with, GG was with him at KKR, and then a couple of really good seasons with Punjab. So, no, it's perhaps a little bit unusual that he wasn't, but he was very close to always being in the team over the last couple of years. It's just that Surya and Tilak, the spots that he bats, were there, and he couldn't find a spot. So, now that he's found a spot, I think he's, like I said, he's earned it. On the conversation he had with Surya, Agarkar explained, You look at, obviously, the form in the last couple of years. But he was the captain, we were doing really well as him winning so many games, and eventually ending up winning the World Cup. Obviously, we deliberated a lot, especially when someone's led you to a World Cup win. So, no, it's perhaps a little bit unusual that he wasn't, but he was very close to always being in the team over the last couple of years. It's just that Surya and Tilak, the spots that he bats, were there, and he couldn't find a spot. So, now that he's found a spot, I think he's, like I said, he's earned it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With regards to Sky, I don't think I don't want to give an insight. I mean, it's like a conversation between Surya and me. Look, we know he's been captain that's just won a World Cup. So it's not the easiest conversation when you want to tell the player that. But you're doing everything in the interest of what the team needs going forward, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
