Indias blind women cricketers still wait for house sites and jobs a year after their World Cup win
Captain Deepika T.C. of Madakasira in Andhra Pradeshs Sri Sathya Sai district is still waiting for the house site she was promised
Sourav Ganguly returns to Delhi Capitals as head coach for IPL 2027 season
Former India captain Sourav Ganguly was on Tuesday announced as the head coach of the Delhi Capitals team ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season. Ganguly has been associated with the franchise since 2019,...
Ganguly takes over as Delhi Capitals' new head coach
Rishabh Pant is back at Delhi Capitals from Lucknow Super Giants, and Yuvraj Singh is expected to join the franchise as batting coach
'I Have Done My Duty': Harmanpreet Steps Down As India Captain
ODI World Cup: Indian womens ODI World Cup winning skipper Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down from captaincy across all formats after serving as the full-time T20I captain since 2018 and as the ODI captain since 2022, having taken over the reins from the legendary Mithali Raj. Today, I step down as captain of the Indian Womens Cricket Team across all formats. This is not an easy decision. It carries years of memories, emotions, sacrifices, and moments that will stay with me for the rest of my life, Kaur wrote on Instagram. I have given everything I had to this team and to Indian womens cricket my blood, my sweat, my time, and many times, a part of my own game and personal ambitions. There were moments when I had to put my individual performance, my own growth, and what I wanted for myself aside, because I believed the team had to come first. As a captain, I have had to make difficult decisions. Decisions that were not always understood, not always easy, and sometimes came at a personal cost. But every decision I made was with one intention - to make this TEAM better and to give other players the opportunity to grow, believe in themselves and become the best versions of themselves, she added. She etched her name in history books by becoming the first female skipper to lead the Indian team to a maiden senior ICC World Cup title by defeating South Africa on home soil. I have seen it all. I have seen the lowest moments, the heartbreak, the criticism, the doubts and the days when nothing seemed to go our way. And I have also experienced the highest highs - the victories, the celebrations, the pride of representing our country, and the moments that made every sacrifice worth it, Kaur wrote. Harman also led the side to a record four Asia Cup titles as captain in 2012, 2016, 2022, 2026 and also guided the team to consecutive gold medals at the Asian Games, finishing on top of the podium in Hangzhou 2022 and Aichi-Nagoya 2026. I leave the captaincy today with a heart full of emotions , but also with PEACE. Because I genuinely believe my team is in a good place. A team with talent, character, belief and a future that I am incredibly excited to watch and be a part of. I feel I have done my duty. I gave this team everything I had. I carried the responsibility with pride, and I will always be grateful for the privilege of leading Indian womens cricket. Now, it is time for me to turn the page. Captaincy may end today, but my love for Indian cricket never will. Thank you to every teammate, coach, support staff, management , BCCI , family members every single fan who stood by me through the highs and lows. Blood. Sweat. Sarifice. Pride. I gave it all. Now, Im ready to play for the love of the game again. Captaincy ends. The journey continues, she concluded. Harmans other major notable achievements as captain include leading India to their first bilateral Women's ODI series win on English soil since 1999, when the team clinched a historic win in 2022. She also commanded the team to a historic Test match win against Australia in 2023 and a breakthrough T20I series victory against England in 2025. Harmans other major notable achievements as captain include leading India to their first bilateral Women's ODI series win on English soil since 1999, when the team clinched a historic win in 2022. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
VVS Laxman On What Makes Shreyas Iyer A Special Captain
VVS Laxman, who coached the Indian team at the Asian Games, lauded Shreyas Iyer's captaincy, highlighting his meticulous preparation, sharp tactical understanding, and ability to assess opposition strengths as key to his success.
Shafali, Charani, Athapaththu nominated for ICC Womens Player of the Month for September
Digital Desk | Dubai, Oct 6 (IANS) Indias Shafali Verma and Sree Charani, along with Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu, have been nominated for the ICC Womens Player of the Month award for September 2026 following a month of standout performances across the Womens Asia Cup and Asian Games. The three players played key roles for their respective teams during a packed month of T20I cricket, with India winning both the Asia Cup and the Asian Games gold medal, while Sri Lanka reached the finals of both competitions. Shafali enjoyed a prolific month at the top of Indias order, scoring 360 runs in seven T20Is at an average of 72.00 and a strike rate of 184.61. The 22-year-old also contributed with the ball, claiming six wickets at an average of 13.00 and an economy rate of 4.33. She was the leading run-scorer at the Womens Asia Cup, accumulating 236 runs in five innings. She scored 64 in the semifinal against Bangladesh before making 68 in the final against Sri Lanka as India secured a record-extending eighth Asia Cup title. Her form continued at the Asian Games in Japan, where she amassed 188 runs in three innings. After an unbeaten 40 against Japan, she produced her maiden T20I century in the semifinal against Bangladesh, smashing 100 from just 49 balls. She followed it with 48 in the gold-medal match against Sri Lanka as India completed a 147-run victory. Verma also contributed with the ball, taking two wickets during the Asia Cup and four more at the Asian Games, including two in the gold-medal clash against Sri Lanka. While Verma provided the fireworks with the bat, Charani emerged as one of Indias most consistent performers with the ball. The left-arm spinner claimed 18 wickets in seven T20Is during September, averaging just 4.83 while maintaining an economy rate of 3.30. Charani took 12 wickets during Indias successful Asia Cup campaign, including outstanding figures of 4/20 in the final against Sri Lanka. She continued her run at the Asian Games, taking 4/10 against Japan before returning figures of 2-/7 against Bangladesh and 2/13 against Sri Lanka in the gold-medal match. Her eight wickets at the Asian Games took her monthly tally to 18. Charanis month was capped by a landmark achievement in the ICC Womens T20I Player Rankings. She finished September with 817 rating points, becoming the highest-rated womens T20I bowler in history and surpassing Australias Megan Schutt, whose previous record stood at 806 points. With 18 wickets across the two competitions, Charani was Indias leading wicket-taker during a month in which the team secured both the Asia Cup and Asian Games titles. Sri Lanka captain Athapaththu provided a major all-round contribution as her side reached the Womens Asia Cup semifinals and then advanced to the Asian Games final. Across seven T20Is, the left-hander scored 226 runs at an average of 37.66 and a strike rate of 140.37. She also claimed 14 wickets at an average of 10.21 and an economy rate of 6.08. Her most remarkable bowling performance came early in the Womens Asia Cup, when she returned extraordinary figures of 7/5 against Indonesia, including a hat-trick. At the time, the spell was the fifth-best bowling performance in womens T20I cricket and only the sixth occasion on which a bowler had taken seven or more wickets in a Womens T20I. Athapaththu was equally influential with the bat at the Asian Games. She scored 175 runs in three innings, beginning with 63 against Malaysia before producing an unbeaten 83 off 50 balls against Pakistan in the semifinal to take Sri Lanka into the gold-medal match. She finished the Asian Games as Sri Lankas leading run-scorer and also contributed three wickets as the island nation claimed the silver medal. The September shortlist therefore features three players who combined individual brilliance with significant team success, with Verma and Charani helping India complete a memorable double and Athapaththu leading Sri Lanka to medals on both fronts.
'Core In Good Place, We Know What To Do At Auction': Pretoria Capitals Coach Ganguly
Sunrisers Eastern Cape: Pretoria Capitals head coach Sourav Ganguly is confident in the core group of players in the team and has clarity on what the franchise needs to do when the auctions for the SA20 2027 take place on Wednesday. The Capitals made it to the final of the previous edition, where they lost to two-time winners Sunrisers Eastern Cape, who bagged their third title. Capitals have retained the core of their runners-up group and have also pre-signed Phil Salt and Matthew Short ahead of the auction. We were in the final last season, and we didnt finish the job. This time, we have come back stronger. Phil Salt is back, and we have retained the players who delivered for us Dewald Brevis, Keshav Maharaj, and Lungi Ngidi, Ganguly said, as quoted by Pretoria Capitals. Add the firepower of Andre Russell and Sherfane Rutherford, along with some very good domestic talent coming through, and the core is in a good place. There are five spots left, and we will go into the auction knowing exactly what we need, he added. The SA20 auction will take place on Wednesday as Capitals, and the other five teams will have their chance to finalise their squads for the fifth season. 156 players have been shortlisted for the auction, with the likes of Faf du Plessis, Rassie van der Dussen, Wiaan Mulder and Nandre Burger headlining the pack. Only 19 slots can be filled across the six teams. Durban's Super Giants and Paarl Royals will not be busy as they have already completed their 19-player squads. Joburg Super Kings and MI Cape Town have the most slots to fill, as they can rope in six players. Capitals and Sunrisers Eastern Cape can bring in five and two players, respectively. Only 19 slots can be filled across the six teams. Durban's Super Giants and Paarl Royals will not be busy as they have already completed their 19-player squads. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Shreyas Iyer A Player's Captain: VVS Laxman Clean Bowled By India T20I Skipper
A classy batsman in his playing days, Laxman also highlighted Iyer's tactical acumen and his understanding of the players at his disposal, qualities that he believes helps him get the best out of the team.
Michael Bracewell Joins Melbourne Renegades For BBL 16
Big Bash League: Melbourne Renegades have bolstered their overseas contingent for the Big Bash League (BBL) 16 with the signing of New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell, adding an experienced campaigner capable of influencing matches with both bat and ball. Bracewell becomes the Renegades second international signing for the season after England batter Jonny Bairstow, giving the club another proven option as it builds its squad for the upcoming Big Bash League campaign. The 35-year-old, who made his New Zealand debut in 2022, has established himself as a multi-format international and has also led the Black Caps in both ODIs and T20Is. His value, however, extends beyond his international record, with Bracewell having built a substantial T20 resume across several major franchise competitions. He has played more than 200 T20 matches, accumulating over 3,600 runs at a strike rate above 135 while also claiming more than 100 wickets. His experience includes stints in the Indian Premier League, Pakistan Super League, Major League Cricket, The Hundred and the Super Smash. Bracewells ability to change the course of a game with the bat was underlined by his unbeaten 141 off 65 balls for Wellington in the 2022 Super Smash. The knock remains the highest individual score in New Zealand domestic T20 cricket. He has continued to make an impact in franchise cricket, striking at more than 170 during the 2026 Pakistan Super League, further highlighting his ability to provide rapid runs in the middle and lower order. For Bracewell, the move also offers an opportunity to finally experience the BBL after following the competition from afar. Im looking forward to joining the Renegades, the BBL is a competition Ive watched plenty of over the years and one Ive always wanted to experience. Playing in Melbourne, in front of big crowds at the MCG, is going to be special, Bracewell said. The New Zealanders appeal lies in the range of roles he can perform rather than any one specialist discipline. As a left-handed batter and right-arm off-spinner, he gives Melbourne the flexibility to alter their combination depending on conditions and opposition. I enjoy being able to contribute in different ways - whether thats with the bat, with the ball or in the field - and Im looking forward to doing whatever the team needs to help us win games. Renegades head coach Luke Ronchi believes that adaptability could prove particularly valuable in the shortest format, where teams often need players capable of filling multiple roles. Michael gives us a lot of options and thats incredibly valuable in T20 cricket, Ronchi said. Hes a genuine all-rounder. He can play a number of different roles with the bat, hes a very smart off-spinner and he brings a huge amount of experience from playing international and franchise cricket around the world. Hes also been trusted to captain New Zealand, which tells you plenty about the way he sees the game and the type of character he is around a group. Hes a genuine all-rounder. He can play a number of different roles with the bat, hes a very smart off-spinner and he brings a huge amount of experience from playing international and franchise cricket around the world. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sanju Samson is at his peak. Pujara wants him to open
Former cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara believes the Indian team is well-prepared for the slowish tracks expected in the upcoming T20I series against the West Indies, particularly the first match in Lucknow, thanks to their recent experience on challenging pitches at the Asian Games in Japan.
Pressure Off: Priyansh Arya On Playing With Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Priyansh's strongest format is the T20Is, but with Abhishek, Sooryavanshi and Sanju Samson being India regulars now, even his PBKS partner Prabhsimran remains on the fringes and has not made his debut despite being in the squad for the recent Zimbabwe series.
India A vs Australia A Live Streaming, 1st Unofficial ODI: India A are set to square off against Australia A in the first Unofficial ODI of the three-match series on Tuesday in Puducherry.
Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as captain of India women's team
The 37-year-old led the Indian T20 side for a decade, taking over the position in 2016, and was elevated to ODI captaincy in 2022 before becoming the all-format leader in 2023
'Playing With Vaibhav Takes Pressure Off You': Priyansh On Batting With Sooryavanshi
New Delhi: Delhi, India A and Punjab Kings batter Priyansh Arya reflected on his time batting with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma and Prabhsimran Singh as he continues his rise in Indian cricket. Priyansh has set the IPL on fire in the last two seasons and has also scored runs for India A, including a century against Australia A last year. Priyansh's strongest format is the T20Is, but with Abhishek, Sooryavanshi and Sanju Samson being India regulars now, even his PBKS partner Prabhsimran remains on the fringes and has not made his debut despite being in the squad for the recent Zimbabwe series. The Delhi batter's road to the senior Indian team remains a bit longer; however, he is putting in the hard yards for India A and will also be featuring in the one-day series against Australia A, which begins on Tuesday. However, Priyansh looks at this as a healthy competition and aims to learn from the openers. It's quite chill between all of us because we only focus on performance, Priyansh told the media in Delhi ahead of India A's opening one-dayer against Australia A on Tuesday. The better you perform, the higher you go in the pecking order. I've batted with Prabhsimran, Abhishek and Vaibhav, and have learnt something from each of them. I've played with all of them at one level or the other, and I always watch them while they're training. I try to incorporate some of their methods into my game so I can benefit from them. I like their batting style and intent. He added that he has enjoyed batting with Sooryavanshi. For instance, I enjoy playing with Vaibhav because he takes pressure off you by scoring big runs. When he bats, the opposition even starts bowling defensively. This makes batting easier for (his partners) as well. There's great joy in watching Vaibhav bat from the non-striker's end. I just tell him, 'If you're hitting well, just keep hitting.' He has batted with Sooryavanshi in the one-day tri-series in Sri Lanka, which also featured Afghanistan A. They played together twice, once against Afghanistan A, where they put up a 75-run stand, and then in the tri-series final against Sri Lanka A, where they made 132 and played a strong part in winning the final for the team. But Priyansh enjoys batting with Prabhsimran the most. I have the best bond with Prabh bhai. He has been playing in the IPL for the last seven or eight years, and is a lot more experienced than me. He has batted with Sooryavanshi in the one-day tri-series in Sri Lanka, which also featured Afghanistan A. They played together twice, once against Afghanistan A, where they put up a 75-run stand, and then in the tri-series final against Sri Lanka A, where they made 132 and played a strong part in winning the final for the team. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as India captain
The 37-year-old led India in five Tests, 51 ODIs and 155 T20Is
Harmanpreet Kaur Quits as India Women's Cricket Captain
Long-serving Indian women's cricket team captain Harmanpreet Kaur has announced her decision to step down from her leadership role across all formats, citing years of memories, emotions, and sacrifices.
'I have done my duty': Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as India captain
India womens captain Harmanpreet Kaur has stepped down from captaincy in all formats, bringing an end to her stint as the teams leader. Harmanpreet said the decision was not easy but felt she had fulfilled her responsibility as captain.
Harmanpreet Kaur Quits As Indian Women's Team Captain In All Formats
This is not an easy decision. It carries years of memories, emotions, sacrifices, Harmanpreet Kaur said on stepping down from captaincy.
Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as captain of India women's cricket team captain from all formats
Harmanpreet Kaur steps down as captain of India women's cricket team captain from all formats.
New career low for Suryakumar Yadav
Suryakumar Yadav has been dropped from Mumbai's Ranji Trophy squad for the opening match against Chandigarh, despite confirming his availability, due to selectors' concerns over his red-ball form after an 18-month hiatus from the format.
Main Toh Hoon Hi Nahi: Shubman Gill Stumps Reporter With Epic Reply To T20 Team Question
Shubman Gill, who currently captains India in ODIs and Tests, has been left out of the T20I side following a string of low scores in the shortest format.
No game time, but Sooryavanshi gaining invaluable experience
'I think the more time he spends in this environment with the quality players, the more time he trains at this standard, will only be great for his cricket.'
The Day Imran Khan Played Cricket in Allahabad: A Forgotten 1984 Classic
There are cricket grounds that became famous because of Test matches, international tournaments or great performances. And then there are grounds whose place in cricket history is secured by a single extraordinary afternoon. For Allahabad, now Prayagraj, that afternoon came on 26 February 1984, when Pakistan captain Imran Khan walked into the Madan Mohan Malviya Stadium to play a benefit match for an Indian cricketer. It was not an India-Pakistan international. There were no championship points at stake and no official record to be created. Yet, for Allahabad's cricket lovers, it became one of the most memorable sporting occasions the city had witnessed. The match was organised as a benefit for William Ghosh, a veteran Indian Railways cricketer facing financial and health difficulties. Ghosh had played 71 first-class matches, taking 239 wickets. Imran's presence transformed what might otherwise have been a local fundraising game into an extraordinary meeting of domestic cricket and international stardom. But what brought one of the world's biggest cricket stars from Pakistan to Allahabad for just a few hours? The answer lay in an old family friendship. Ghosh was a close friend of Imran's father, Ikramullah Khan Niazi, dating back to the pre-Partition period. When Ghosh fell on difficult times, that friendship became the bridge that brought Imran to Allahabad. Imran was then at the height of his cricketing fame. Yet he agreed to make the journey for a benefit match in Allahabad. He flew from Pakistan to New Delhi and then travelled to Allahabad by train. According to local recollections, he maintained his strict fitness regime during the journey, eating nothing but oranges. Imran captained the Geep XI, walking out before a huge crowd at the Madan Mohan Malviya Stadium. The ground was packed to capacity, while people also gathered outside simply to be part of the occasion. For a city accustomed to watching its own Ranji heroes, this was a rare opportunity to see a Pakistani superstar at close quarters. Imran did not disappoint. He played an aggressive innings that became the enduring cricketing memory of the day. Syed Hyder Ali, one of the leading local players in the Geep XI, recalled years later that Imran's sixes seemed to dwarf the dimensions of the stadium, with the ball sailing beyond the ground. The precise score of the exhibition innings mattered less than the memory it created. For those watching in Allahabad that afternoon, Imran was not merely a visiting Pakistani cricketer; he was a world-class sportsman suddenly playing on their own ground. The match had another remarkable feature. Mansoor Ali Khan Pataudi , India's former captain and the Nawab of Pataudi, was among the umpires, alongside Swarup Kishan. Pataudi reportedly officiated for the first hour before being replaced by TD Mukherji. What did it mean to Allahabad? This is where the story goes beyond Imran Khan. Local players did not merely watch Imran from the stands; they shared the dressing room and field with him. Hyder Ali, who played first-class cricket for 25 years and represented Uttar Pradesh, Railways and Bengal, regarded the 1984 match as one of the memorable moments of his career. The benefit match helped raise money for a respected cricketer at a difficult stage of his life. At the same time, it gave thousands of ordinary cricket followers an experience normally associated with international stadiumswatching one of the world's most famous cricketers in their own city. It also created a powerful image of cricket cutting across the India-Pakistan divide. The match did not become part of the history of the India-Pakistan series. But it became part of Allahabad's cricket memory. A city better known for its literary, cultural and political heritage also had its cricketing moments. Few can match the afternoon when Imran Khan arrived, captained Geep XI, shared the ground with India's cricketing royalty and sent the ball soaring into the Allahabad sky. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories For Allahabad's cricket lovers, Imran Khan's visit lasted much longer than those few hours.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Told To Spend More Time With Team, Coach Makes Expectations Clear
India's bowling coach Morne Morkel on Monday said teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi needs to spend more time with the team even if he is not playing which will only be great for the game.
Suryakumar Yadav Dropped By Mumbai, Selectors Name Teenage Star As New Vice-Captain For Ranji Trophy
Suryakumar Yadav is running out of options to revive his career, having been dropped from Mumbai's Ranji Trophy team.
Hardik Pandya To CSK? Report Reveals Key Zaheer Khan Factor Ahead Of IPL Retention Deadline
Despite his injury concerns, Hardik Pandya remains one of the most sought-after all-rounders in the game due to his ability to contribute with both bat and ball.
With Ajit Agarkar's tenure as BCCI's chief selector over, a former India player within the committee has emerged as a potential candidate to take over.
Nations League PIX: France rally to trounce Belgium
France staged a remarkable comeback to defeat Belgium 4-1 in their Nations League Group A1 encounter, with substitutes playing a crucial role in the final minutes. Meanwhile, Italy secured a comfortable 3-1 victory over Turkey in the same group, maintaining their strong form. These results significantly impact the group standings, with France now leading.
Baloda stars with 6 wickets as Australia U-19 collapse
Left-arm spinner Tanmay Baloda claimed six wickets for 32 runs, helping India Under-19 dismiss Australia for 174 on the opening day of the second Youth Test in Ahmedabad. India, however, lost both openers and ended the day at 38 for two, trailing by 136 runs, setting up an intriguing contest.
Uncapped batter Kamil Pooran admitted to being left speechless and in shock upon receiving his maiden West Indies T20I call-up for the upcoming series against India, adding that the national team selection is the ultimate reward for years of relentless hard work on the domestic circuit.
Pakistan Champions Withdraw From WCL Season 3 After PCB Refuses NOCs For Players
Pakistan Champions on Monday confirmed their withdrawal from the World Championship of Legends Season 3 following the PCB's refusal to grant NOCs to their players. The team had been trying to resolve the issue through discussions with the Pakistan
Pakistan withdraw from World Championship of Legends after PCB refuse NOCs
This year's tournament began on 3 October, but Pakistan's game against Bangladesh was postponed
Sai Sudharsan not worried about competition for spots
The batter is focussed on charting his own path after recovering from toe injury
Delhi Capitals Parts Ways With IPL Coaching Staff; Official Word On New Coaches To Come Soon
Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals have officially parted ways with their existing coaching group ahead of the 2027 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, by making an announcement through their social media accounts. Under GMR, who were at the helm for the 2025 and 2026 seasons as per an operational agreement signed with co-owners JSW in 2024, DC had former India player Hemang Badani as their head coach, alongside director of cricket Venugopal Rao, bowling coach Munaf Patel, assistant coach Ian Bell and fielding coach John Mooney. A special coaching group, and some very special memories. Thanks for everything, Tigers, Delhi Capitals posted on 'X' and Instagram accounts on Monday. The announcement comes on the back of operational control now transitioning to JSW Sports for the 2027 and 2028 IPL cycles. Yes, the term of the Badani-led coaching group is over. In a day or two, the new Delhi Capitals coaches for the IPL 2027 season will be officially announced, said a source to IANS on Monday. As previously reported on September 14, Yuvraj Singh, Amit Mishra and Chaminda Vaas are expected to join the new-look DC coaching staff. Former India captain Sourav Ganguly, currently serving as JSW's Director of Cricket, is expected to take over as head coach, though it remains to be seen if he will be hit by the Conflict-of-Interest clause as he also serves as President of the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB). In 2019, when he was CAB President before crossing over to become BCCI President, Ganguly was the team advisor for DC in the IPL. At that time, Ganguly had stated that his position as CAB President was purely honorary and he couldnt influence anything in the IPL. Ganguly worked as head coach of Pretoria Capitals in SA20 earlier this year, which marked his maiden foray as a coach, and was also involved with the DC side in the Womens Premier League (WPL). Yuvraj, whos won World Cups for India in ODIs and T20Is, is set to step into his maiden formal cricket coaching role as DCs batting coach. Yuvraj has been a hands-on mentor to Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma and Prabhsimran Singh, as well as worked with Rishabh Pant and Sanju Samson intermittently. Vaas, the Sri Lankan fast bowling legend, and Mishra, the former India leg-spinner who was a prolific wicket-taker in the IPL, are slated to join the franchise as fast and spin bowling coaches. Vaas has worked in a coaching capacity with the Sri Lanka mens team many times and with the SLC academy. He also worked with New Zealand and Ireland teams in a consulting capacity, as well as held coaching roles in various franchise leagues. For Mishra, it will be his first coaching stint after announcing his retirement from all forms of cricket last year. Ganguly, Yuvraj and Mishra were present at DCs trials and off-season camp at the Just Cricket Ground in Bengaluru in August. In September, Yuvraj, Mishra and Vaas were present at another camp and trials held at a ground in Aerocity, New Delhi. Vaas, the Sri Lankan fast bowling legend, and Mishra, the former India leg-spinner who was a prolific wicket-taker in the IPL, are slated to join the franchise as fast and spin bowling coaches. Vaas has worked in a coaching capacity with the Sri Lanka mens team many times and with the SLC academy. He also worked with New Zealand and Ireland teams in a consulting capacity, as well as held coaching roles in various franchise leagues. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
U-19 WC-winning Captain Mhatre Appointed Mumbai Vice-captain; Suryakumar Left Out
T20 World Cup: Ayush Mhatre, who captained India to U-19 World Cup triumph earlier this year, has been appointed vice-captain in Mumbais squad for their Ranji Trophy season-opener against Chandigarh, starting on October 11 at the Wankhede Stadium. In a major development, Suryakumar Yadav, who led India to win the T20 World Cup on home soil earlier this year, has not been included in the squad despite making himself available for selection, as the selectors led by Rajesh Pawar have opted to prioritise youth power in the red-ball format. Pawar had an hour-long meeting with other selectors, which was also attended by skipper Siddhesh Lad, head coach Omkar Salvi, and cricket advisor, former India cricketer and chief selector Dilip Vengsarkar. Mumbai will also miss seam-bowling all-rounder Shardul Thakur, who suffered a fracture to his right middle finger during training and is set to miss at least the first two matches. India opener Yashasvi Jaiswal has also been named in the squad, boosting the batting unit and giving him valuable match time in preparation for Indias Test series against New Zealand, to be held in November. Mhatre missed competitive action for almost five months following a hamstring injury during IPL 2026, where he was playing for Chennai Super Kings. Mhatre and Lad, who dislocated his shoulder while playing in the Mumbai T20 league, recently cleared their fitness tests at the BKC indoor facility and even played in the Kanga League to prove their match fitness. Opener Divyansh Saxena, who was Jaiswals teammate in the 2020 Mens U19 World Cup in South Africa, has also made a comeback to the Mumbai Ranji Trophy squad on the basis of putting out strong performances in the pre-season competitions. Mumbai, the 42-time Ranji Trophy winners, are in Elite Group D in this years competition alongside Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Railways, Uttarakhand, Haryana and Himachal Pradesh. Mhatre missed competitive action for almost five months following a hamstring injury during IPL 2026, where he was playing for Chennai Super Kings. Mhatre and Lad, who dislocated his shoulder while playing in the Mumbai T20 league, recently cleared their fitness tests at the BKC indoor facility and even played in the Kanga League to prove their match fitness. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Morkel: Mayank, Prince 'still learning the trade' in small windows
Morne Morkel also spoke about the importance of India developing part-time seamers
Zimbabwe excited for home World Cup challenge
Zimbabwe is buzzing with excitement to co-host the ODI World Cup next year, marking their return after a 12-year absence. Veteran all-rounder Sikandar Raza and coach Justin Sammons express enthusiasm for playing on home soil and testing themselves against top teams like India, while also highlighting caution regarding Afghanistan's strong X-factor players.
Doesn't Get Enough Credit: India Cricketer Receives Massive Praise After Asian Games Gold
India beat Pakistan by 19 runs in the final of Asian Games 2026 cricket event to clinch the gold medal.
Salman Ali Agha Sacked As Pakistan T20I Captain As Sahibzada Farhan Named Skipper For SL Series
Salman Ali Agha: Salman Ali Agha has been sacked as the captain of the Pakistan men's T20I team, with Sahibzada Farhan replacing him in the role for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka that begins on Friday in Rawalpindi. Apart from being sacked as captain, Salman has also been dropped from the T20I team altogether as Pakistan named their T20I squad for the Sri Lanka series and also for the ODI tri-series featuring Sri Lanka and England. The Men in Green have not been impressive under Salman, having lost the Asia Cup final last year to India and having failed to make it to the semifinals of the T20 World Cup 2026. Sahibzada recently led Pakistan to the silver medal at the Asian Games, where they lost to the Men in Blue. Meanwhile, Naseem Shah has been called back into the side after last featuring in the T20 World Cup 2026. Razaullah, Pakistan's hero in the third Test against England, has been handed his maiden white-ball call-ups in both squads. The squad has several changes from the team that played in the T20 World Cup. Former captain Babar Azam is also not in the T20I team for the series, while a few Asian Games performers have been rewarded. Hasan Nawaz, who played a strong 96 against India in the Asiad final, has kept his place. Before the Aichi-Nagoya Games, he last played a T20I in November 2025. Abdul Samad, Maaz Sadaqat, Arafat Minhas, and Sufiyan Moqim have also been picked after featuring in the Asian Games and not being part of the World Cup squad. Shaheen Afridi has also not been named in the T20I series; however, he leads the ODI team for the tri-series that begins on October 18 in Rawalpindi. Salman has been picked in the ODIs after being removed as T20I captain. This series also marks the return of Shaun Tait as Pakistan's bowling coach after he served in the role from February 2022 for a year. Pakistan T20I squad for Sri Lanka series: Sahibzada Farhan (capt), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Arafat Minhas, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Nawaz, Muhammad Imran Randhawa, Khawaja Nafay (wk), Maaz Sadaqat, Naseem Shah, Razaullah, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Shadab Khan, Sufiyan Moqim Pakistan ODI squad for tri-series: Sahibzada Farhan (capt), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmed, Arafat Minhas, Fakhar Zaman, Hasan Nawaz, Muhammad Imran Randhawa, Khawaja Nafay (wk), Maaz Sadaqat, Naseem Shah, Razaullah, Saim Ayub, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Shadab Khan, Sufiyan Moqim Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
1st T20I: Veteran Spinner Akeal Hosein Banks On Data, Instinct To Counter India
With the West Indies set to embark on a five-match T20I tussle against a buoyant India side in the shortest format, the veteran spinner Akeal Hosein's motto is simple: use the data, but don't get addicted to it; trust your instinct, but don't abandon preparation.
BCCI Set To Recall Star Pacer For New Zealand Tests. Not Mohammed Shami Or Bhuvneshwar Kumar
Fast bowler Akash Deep is set for a Test recall as the selectors prepare to pick three India squads for the upcoming New Zealand tour, which begins with the T20I series on October 22.
Mhatre appointed Mumbai vice-captain, cold shoulder for Suryakumar
Ashutosh Sharma Switches From Railways To Gujarat For 2026/27 Domestic Season
Gujarat Cricket Association: Ashutosh Sharma has switched allegiance from Railways to Gujarat for the 2026/27 domestic season, Gujarat Cricket Association (GCA) Secretary Anil Patel told IANS on Monday. It is understood that Ashutosh has been training with the Gujarat team and even featured in some of their practice games. Known for his explosive power-hitting in the death overs in the shortest format, Ashutosh is among three guest players signed by the GCA alongside India leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi, who is currently in the squad for the T20I series against the West Indies, starting in Lucknow on Tuesday, and fast bowler Ashok Sharma, who moved on from Rajasthan but is currently undergoing rehab at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. Yes, Ashutosh Sharma will be playing domestic cricket for Gujarat from this year. Hes definitely a great addition to our batting order, especially in the white-ball formats. We are waiting for good results now. Theres a need for us to get a big title, as last to last year (2024/25 season), we missed out after coming into the Ranji Trophy semi-finals. With a new coach in Monty Desai, lets hope for the best, Patel told IANS on Monday. Ashutosh initially played domestic cricket for Madhya Pradesh before moving to Railways. His reputation as a high-impact finisher in the shortest format earned him Indian Premier League (IPL) stints with Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals. Earlier this year, Ashutosh had a stint with Hampshire in the One-Day Cup, where he picked 14 scalps in seven games, including a five-wicket haul, though he made only 56 runs with the bat. Gujarat will open their 2026/27 Ranji Trophy campaign against Odisha at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. The first round of the Ranji Trophy will also see senior opener KL Rahul turn out for Karnataka against Andhra in Vijayawada, while left-arm spinner Manav Suthar will captain Rajasthan in their opening game against Tamil Nadu in Jaipur. Earlier this year, Ashutosh had a stint with Hampshire in the One-Day Cup, where he picked 14 scalps in seven games, including a five-wicket haul, though he made only 56 runs with the bat. Gujarat will open their 2026/27 Ranji Trophy campaign against Odisha at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Sunday. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
An opportunity for the A team players to stake claim in ODIs
Pakistan Drop And Sack Salman Ali Agha As T20I Captain, Appoint Star Batter In The Role
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has axed Salman Ali Agha from the T20I squad, replacing him with opener Sahibzada Farhan as the nation's captain in the format.
Make Him Think: Morne Morkel Reveals How India Are Nurturing Sooryavanshi
Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee: India bowling coach Morne Morkel believes young opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi can make significant strides simply by being around an experienced Indian dressing room, urging the teenager to observe, ask questions and absorb the habits of established players as India begin their five-match T20I series against West Indies here on Tuesday. Two Lucknow-based IPL pacers, Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav, will also return to Indias T20I setup in the series opener at the Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, with the management pondering over its bowling combinations on a pitch that is expected to offer a mix of pace, bounce and spin. But Morkel believes Sooryavanshis growth should not be judged by the amount of game time he gets, with the 14-year-old already reaping the benefits of being around senior players and watching them prepare and react to different situations. Yeah, I mean, we all know the talent of Ivan. I think the more time he spends in this environment with the quality players, the more time he trains at this standard, will only be great for his cricket. And if he's not getting that game time, he's still on a bus, in the dugout, in the hotel with guys with a lot of experience. And I think with him sharing that sort of dressing room and talking to guys, or just actually watching how the guys go through their processes and how they set up innings, will be key for him, Morkel said in the pre-match press conference in Lucknow on Monday. Im a big believer that sometimes, if you put guys in the right environment and they can ask the right questions and they can observe. So I always challenge them; I say, watch what this guy is doing in training, how does he face his first 15 balls? When the wicket is doing stuff, what sort of game plan does he come up with? And for any young player, if he gets game time or if that game time is a little limited, its still our job to make sure that these guys learn, they grow, and they ask questions. Morkel said he also encourages the young batter to reflect on what he has learnt from each training session. I think that for me is a fantastic growth sort of mind map. I mean, I'm a fast bowler; I can't really talk too much about batting, but I always ask him on the bus, ' What's one thing you've learned today? Tell me, what did you think about that guy's batting? And that makes him think. And I think next time when he comes to nets, those sort of things he'll observe; he'll adapt to his game, he added. While Sooryavanshis role at the top could depend on Indias combination, Morkel expects the management to assess the players returning from the Asian Games before finalising the XI. Im pretty sure Gautam will look to rotate. I mean, as I said, that is up to the selectors, and obviously the coach and the captain in terms of the playing 11, or which playing 11 will be the best to win a game for India on home soil. And that will always be the main focus, Morkel said. In terms of the starting 11, as I said, the guys just came back from the Asian Games, so we'll assess how everybody is feeling after jet lag, after travelling, and then from there make a plan. India enter the T20I leg after winning the preceding three-match ODI series 2-1, although the West Indies finished that contest on a high by taking the final game at New Chandigarh. India will also carry the confidence of their Asian Games campaign, where they won the men's T20 gold medal. Morkel expects the transition between formats to provide a stern test, particularly with West Indies possessing a batting line-up capable of putting pressure on the bowling attack from the outset. Yeah, I think, you know, waiting for the spectators, it's going to be fantastic viewing. I think for both sides at the moment, the red flag or the problem might be, you know, our guys travelling back after the Asian Games. Some of the guys only arrived a couple of days ago, so jet lag, getting over the journey. But I think once we are up and running and we get the series going, we are all really looking forward to it, Morkel added. The immediate challenge for India will be adapting to a fresh format while also continuing to build their player pool, with the 2027 ODI World Cup already behind them and the next global tournament still some distance away. Look, the main goal always will be to win the games. I think this group of players have played some exceptional cricket over the last couple of years. The guys who got opportunities came in and, you know, they've done a brilliant job, Morkel said. Yes, it will be great for Indian cricket if we keep on growing that pool, keep on giving guys that experience of the taste of what it is to play in an Indian shirt. And also a nice opportunity for guys who were out of the loop for a while to come back. One such returnee is Mayank Yadav, whose comeback from injury adds another dimension to Indias pace attack. You know, Mayank Yadav, he's back from injury, so look forward to seeing how he goes when he gets an opportunity. So I think it is sort of looking at the bigger picture, but also you want to win games for India. You want to give the guys who have done well so far to continue that, and yeah, we look forward to the series, and we'll take it as it comes. Mayanks raw pace gives India an X-factor that is difficult to replicate, while Prince Yadav has taken a different route into the international setup after initially being a net bowler. I mean, if you look at Mayank, immediately that comes to mind is his pace, his X-factor. I think for me, Prince, where he was a net bowler a couple of years ago, he's now playing for India. That resilience, the hard work that he's put into his game to reach international stages, is admirable, Morkel said. For me, that shows that these guys are hardworking players. Mayank had a couple of setbacks with injury, back-to-back setbacks with that; for a young player to get through that, and then again to find themselves in the situation to play for India just shows character. Both pacers have a particularly strong connection with the venue, having represented Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL, and their knowledge of the Ekana surface could prove useful for India. The question, however, is whether India will lean heavily on that local knowledge. Of course, you know, one aspect is obviously for them to share their knowledge, what they found playing here. But to be honest with you, I think for us it is about... we talk about that, but it's not to make that our main focus, Morkel said. Like I said, the strength of this team moving forward will be how individuals can, at the moment, adapt to some of the conditions and how they can execute that. Of course, we'll look at all the players, we'll come up with plans, but I think that is the winning moment in white-ball cricketis that decision under pressure as a bowler with a captain. What's the best decision you can make, and can you execute that? Execution could be especially important with the conditions on Pitch No. 5, the centre strip, being used for the contest. The pitch is a combination of red and black soil surface; Lucknow saw a lot of runs in IPL 2026 after being a little more bowler-friendly in the first part of the season. There has been some rain around the city too, with both teams practice sessions affected on Monday, although no rain is forecast during match hours on Tuesday. There are a few showers expected during the day, but conditions should be clear when the match kicks off. The Ekana wicket has been tricky to read over the years. The last T20I played here was against New Zealand in 2023, when India chased down 100 successfully, but that was before the surfaces were re-laid. IPL 2026 was a tale of two halves for the venue. Bowlers had help in the initial half of the tournament with movement and bounce on the more bowler-friendly pitches, while in the second half the pitches flattened out quite a bit. Any moisture left from the recent rain could bring the seamers back into the contest early, while the surface is generally considered good for batting and can bring spinners into play as the ball gets older. Morkel said India will not enter the match with a rigid pace-versus-spin blueprint. Look, I don't think there is one sort of blueprint or thing we're gonna go with. We'll come up with the best solution for how we think we're going to win games. If it's extra pace, if it's extra spin, that is yet to be determined, but for me, it's always my sort of feel here in T20 or especially white-ball cricket; it's good wickets, so yeah, I think you get tested on your execution. That execution could become even more important against a West Indies side known for aggressive batting. Morkel expects both teams to have to read conditions quickly rather than rely solely on pre-match plans. Yeah, look, I mean, I just walked past the square now; I haven't had a proper look at the wicket. We'll assess sort of the conditions as best as possible tonight. We understand that in this series it's going to be a high-scoring game. Your skills will be tested; execution, most importantly, will be tested, he said. In a short turnaround, we'll try and plan as best as possible. But I think the key for both teams is how we can read the conditions and how you can come up with the best plans in that moment, and then, as I said, execution is going to be key. The size of the Ekana boundaries could also increase the value of having additional bowling options. But I think purely on that, you need to see what the conditions are like, and from there you can make a play. But from my point of view, the more bowling options we can have on a night, as a captain, at times that can help, Morkel said. So I think it's about always keeping these guys ready, and then from there reading the conditions, reading what the wicket is doing, boundary sizes. Obviously we've got a luxury here that it's quite a big field, so these guys come into the conversation a lot more. India could also have a selection call to make between Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav, with the latter returning to the T20I setup after last playing the format in February. Morkel said Kuldeeps confidence and rhythm have returned at the right time. Look, I think Kuldeep spoke about it in the past after the ODI series that he feels he's bowling well again. And that is great news for us. As a bowler, sometimes we can struggle with our rhythm; it takes a little bit longer at times to find that, but for us, he's a massive match-winner, he's confident, he's bowling well. India could also have a selection call to make between Ravi Bishnoi and Kuldeep Yadav, with the latter returning to the T20I setup after last playing the format in February. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India vs West Indies first T20I: Windies could run India close in the shortest format
The host boasts of a power-packed batting line-up; Samson under the scanner; how the team management handles Sooryavanshi remains to be seen; the visitor gets a big boost with the return of Hetmyer, Powell, Shepherd and Akeal
IND vs WI first T20I: Need to strike a balance between continuity and giving exposure, says Morkel
On Vaibhav Sooryavanshis development, Morkel was of the opinion that being around the team will be useful for the youngster even if he doesnt make it to the XI
West Indies spinner Hosein confident team will push India in the T20 series
The 33-year-old is set to play in his 100th T20I match, and the Trinidadian hoped he could continue for another five years
Zimbabwe To Showcase Talent And Culture As Co Hosts Of 2027 Men's ODI World Cup
As Zimbabwe prepares to co-host the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup, skipper Richard Ngarava made no secret of what lies ahead for his team, a trial by fire against the game's finest teams in front of their passionate home crowd.
No guarantees for Sooryavanshi as India look to build on Asian Games success
West Indies will hope to carry the momentum from their ODI win in New Chandigarh
Durham Rope In Luke Robinson On Two-year Professional Deal
Metro Bank One Day Cup: Durham have signed rising fast-bowler Luke Robinson on a two-year professional deal that will see him with the club until the end of the 2028 season, Durham confirmed on Monday. Robinson, 22, is a product of the Durham Cricket Academy and has penned his first professional deal. He made his debut against Middlesex under ECB's new injury replacement ruling in place of the injured Kemar Roach. He went on to dismiss Toby Roland-Jones for his maiden first-class wicket. Robinson was left overwhelmed to sign the contract. Im over the moon to be signing another contract with Durham. This club has been my home for my career so far, and I wouldnt want it any other way. I thoroughly enjoyed the 2026 season and cant wait to hit the ground running back in Division One and help bring some more silverware home for Durham, he said. Meanwhile, Ryan Campbell, Director of Cricket and High-Performance Coaching at Durham, welcomed Robinson. We are really pleased that Luke has signed a new contract with us, which keeps him in Chester-le-Street for another couple of years. We have seen this year how much of an exciting prospect he is with the ball and his performances in the Metro Bank One Day Cup and the County Championship demonstrate this, Campbell said. He had an excellent 50-over campaign, and we saw glimpses of what he can offer to the team with a red ball too; he has genuine pace which is exciting to see. We will work closely with Luke over this winter as his game continues to develop, and we look forward to seeing him continue to grow as a Durham Cricketer into next season and beyond, he added. We have seen this year how much of an exciting prospect he is with the ball and his performances in the Metro Bank One Day Cup and the County Championship demonstrate this, Campbell said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
IND vs WI: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of 1st T20I, India vs West Indies series 2026
IND vs WI 1st T20I , Approaching Milestones and Records :The three-match ODI series between Indian Cricket Team and West Indies Cricket Team was high-scoring. Both teams broke many batting records in three games. More than 2100 runs were scored in three games, which is a record in a three-match bilateral ODI series. Now, these two sides will move to the T20I series, which will begin on October 6. The first game will kick off at 7 PM IST at Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow, on Tuesday. Shreyas Iyer and co. are back after winning the gold medal at the Asian Games 2026. India have won 9 consecutive T20Is and will be looking to keep their winning streak going. Jasprit Bumrah has been rested while Hardik Pandya is not fit. For West Indies, the record chase in the final ODI must have boosted them with confidence. They will now be aiming to kick off the T20I series with a win. They have a strong squad, and they can certainly challenge India in their own conditions. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the IND vs WI 1st T20Iat Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow.. IND vs WI: Approaching Test Records and Cricket Milestones Ahead of the IND vs WI 1st T20I at Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. 74 - Abhishek Sharma has been in excellent form, and he is coming off a match-winning knock in the final of the Asian Games 2026. Abhishek is just 74 runs away from becoming the sixth fastest batter to reach 2000 T20I runs. 6 - Sanju Samson is six sixes away from becoming the sixth Indian with 100 T20I sixes. 8 - Shai Hope struck consecutive centuries in the last two ODI innings. He is in excellent form and is 8 sixes away from completing 100 T20I sixes. 5 - Kuldeep Yadav finished the ODI series with the most wickets. He is just five wickets away from reaching 100 T20I wickets for India.6 - Akeal Hosein needs six wickets to complete 100 T20I wickets. 15 - Shreyas Iyer needs 15 more runs to reach 7500 T20 runs. 13 - Tilak Varma needs 13 more runs to complete 5000 T20 runs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 6 - Abhishek is just 6 boundaries away from reaching 1000 boundaries in T20 cricket. He will be the fastest batter to do so among the full-member squad.
Tanmay Balodas Six-wicket Haul Puts India U19 On Top Despite Late Strikes From Australia
Narendra Modi Stadium: Left-arm spinner Tanmay Baloda picked up a six-wicket haul as India Under-19 gained the upper hand in the second Youth Test despite a late double blow by Australia U19 on an action-packed Day One of the match at the Narendra Modi Stadium B ground in Ahmedabad on Wednesday. Balodas wonderful spell helped India U19 bowl out Australia U19 for a modest 174 in their first innings. But the visitors fought back valiantly in the final session by removing both Indian openers to reduce the hosts to 38/2 at stumps, as India U19 trailed by 136 runs. At stumps, Kushagra Ojha was unbeaten on 13 alongside skipper Yashbardhan Chauhan, whos not out on seven. Opting to field after winning the toss, Indias fast bowlers set the tone early. Priyanshu Singh struck in the second over by removing Australian skipper Matthew Lough for a duck, before fellow quick Mohit Ulva had Hayden Barbulovic caught behind in the fifth over to leave the visitors in early trouble at 9/2. Neel Patel and Eli Brain briefly steadied the ship with a cautious partnership, but the introduction of Baloda turned the tide completely in Indias favour. The left-arm spinner broke the stand by trapping Brain LBW and followed it up in his very next over by having Patel stumped. Pacer Aayan Akram then joined the wicket-taking act by inducing an edge from Blake Cattle, before Baloda took out Zed Hollick to leave Australia reeling at six down inside 21 overs. Just as the visitors appeared in danger of being bowled out for a double-digit score, wicketkeeper-batter Charlie Henderson and Jacob Pietz staged a gritty rescue act. The duo added 70 runs for the seventh wicket to take Australia past the 150-mark. But Baloda once again proved to be the partnership breaker by cleaning up Pietz for 26. Akram then dismissed Henderson shortly after, as Baloda took out the tail and became Indias standout bowler. Indias innings began on a shaky note -- Lakshya Raichandani, who had slammed a double century in the series opener, edged behind off fast bowler Thomas Vaseo after a laborious 1 off 22 balls. Leg-spinner Spencer Green then trapped Sagar Virk lbw to leave the hosts two down early before Ojha and Chauhan saw off the remaining overs safely. Brief scores: Indias innings began on a shaky note -- Lakshya Raichandani, who had slammed a double century in the series opener, edged behind off fast bowler Thomas Vaseo after a laborious 1 off 22 balls. Leg-spinner Spencer Green then trapped Sagar Virk lbw to leave the hosts two down early before Ojha and Chauhan saw off the remaining overs safely. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Youth Test: Balodas six-for leaves the Aussies in a bind
The host bowls out the visitor for 174 and ends the first day at 38 for two
The development comes after the Indian team refused to play against Pakistan last season following the Pahalgam terror attack.
Pakistan pulls out of WCL 2026 as PCB refuses to cooperate after 2025 fiasco
In a major development, Pakistans team at the WCL (World Championship of Legends) has pulled out of the ongoing edition of the tournament. It is worth noting that the PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) upheld its...
'We're not backing down': WI spinner warns India
West Indies spinner Akeal Hosein acknowledges India as a very dangerous side ahead of the upcoming five-match T20I series. He discusses the challenges of bowling in the powerplay against India's strong batting lineup and emphasizes the importance of planning, execution, and sticking to effective strategies, aided by data. Hosein asserts that the West Indies team is ready for the challenge and will not back down.
NZ Tour: Akash Deep set for Test comeback
Fast bowler Akash Deep is expected to be recalled to India's Test squad for the upcoming New Zealand tour, following a successful return to domestic cricket after a seven-month injury layoff. The selection committee is also set to pick squads for T20Is, ODIs, and India A's shadow tour.
Mohammad Kaif cites Virat-Rohit's example, hails their performance after WI ODIs
The Indian team defeated the West Indies in the recently concluded three-game ODI series. Winning the first two games of the series, India clinched the three-game series but succumbed to a loss in the third...
Kolkata Warriors Crowned Champions Of Deaf Indian Premier League 2026
KVS Sports Park Cricket Ground: Kolkata Warriors were crowned the champions of the Deaf Indian Premier League 2026 after beating Bangalore Badshahs in the final by 14 runs at the KVS Sports Park Cricket Ground here. Kolkata Warriors made 121/5 in their 15 overs with their batters putting up a good show. The bowlers backed them really well and kept the lid on the Badshahs, restricting them to 107/9 and winning by 14 runs in the end. The championship took place at the KVS Sports Park Cricket Ground in Tirupati from October 1 to 4, 2026. It gave the deaf cricketers from across the country a national platform to demonstrate their sporting ability. Sumit Jain, President, Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), spoke at the conclusion of the tournament and appreciated the players, officials, partners and stakeholders for their contribution to the tournament. Several players were also honoured with awards for their performances in the tournament. Bangalore Badshahs' Aman Chouksey was named Player of the Series and also received the Best Bowler of the Series and Highest Wicket-Taker awards. Eight teams participated in the event: Deaf Hyderabad Eagles, Deaf Bangalore Badshahs, Deaf Lucknow Giants, Deaf Delhi Bulls, Deaf Mumbai Stars, Deaf Kolkata Warriors, Deaf Punjab Lions and Deaf Chennai Blasters, giving their all for the title. IDCA also acknowledged the support and cooperation of institutions and stakeholders associated with the development of deaf cricket, including the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), Deaf International Cricket Council (DICC), Asian Deaf Cricket Association (ADCA), Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI), Andhra Cricket Association (ACA), Deaf Cricket Association of Andhra Pradesh (DCAAP) and Differently Abled Cricket Council of Andhra Pradesh (DACCAP). Here is the list of individual award winners from the tournament: Player of the Match Final: Jitan Nayak, Deaf Kolkata Warriors Best Batter of the Series: Krrish Manish Prajapati, Deaf Kolkata Warriors Best Bowler of the Series: Aman Chouksey, Deaf Bangalore Badshahs Player of the Series: Aman Chouksey, Deaf Bangalore Badshahs Super Sixes Award: Deepak Lamba, Deaf Mumbai Stars Best Wicketkeeper: Umar Ashraf, Deaf Kolkata Warriors Highest Wicket-Taker: Aman Chouksey, Deaf Bangalore Badshahs Best Fielder of the Series: Venu Siliveru, Deaf Bangalore Badshahs Highest Wicket-Taker: Aman Chouksey, Deaf Bangalore Badshahs Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Nortje poised for Test comeback against Australia
South Africa's fast bowler Anrich Nortje is on the verge of a surprising return to Test cricket after nearly four years, potentially bolstering an injury-hit Proteas attack against Australia in the first Test starting Friday in Durban.
1st T20I: Akeal Hosein Banks On Data, Instinct To Counter India
Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee: With the West Indies set to embark on a five-match T20I tussle against a buoyant India side in the shortest format, the veteran spinner Akeal Hoseins motto is simple: use the data, but dont get addicted to it; trust your instinct, but dont abandon preparation; and keep on evolving before the opposition can catch up. The West Indies enter the T20I leg after India won the preceding three-match ODI series 2-1, although the visitors finished that contest on a high by claiming the final match at New Chandigarh. The focus now shifts to the shortest format, where the Caribbean side will have to contend with an India batting line-up packed with aggressive players capable of changing the game in a matter of overs, here at the Bharat Ratna Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. For Hosein, the past record against India matters little once the first ball is bowled. Its just about planning well, going out there, and executing. I think the past is the past. All we can do is control our output now, go out there, and change the results, Hosein said at the pre-match press conference. The five-match nature of the series will bring its own tactical challenge. With both teams likely to face each other repeatedly, bowlers can expect batters to study their methods and look for patterns from one game to the next. For me, its just about trying to do whatever the team requires. A five-match T20 series means that if you play in every game, the opposition can plan better for you each time. So, its always about trying to stay one step ahead of the batter, being as clever as possible, and getting the job done for the team. Thats my general game plan, he said. That becomes particularly important against an Indian top order that thrives on taking the initiative from the first over. Abhishek Sharma and Ishan Kishan are among the batters the West Indies will have to plan for, although the spinner admits his experience against the pair has been limited. Unfortunately, I only bowled a couple of balls to Abhishek and Ishan in the IPL. I havent bowled a lot to them, but as I mentioned, there is a lot of data available. Its just about having a clear mind, sticking to your plans, and trying to execute them as best as possible, he said. For a spinner, the Powerplay can be an especially unforgiving phase. With only two fielders allowed outside the circle, even a well-planned delivery can disappear quickly against a batter in full flow. Bowling in the powerplay in general is pretty scary, especially when youre a spinner. You have a short space to work with on the pitch, and you only have two guys out, he said. Its extra difficult when you have good batting surfaces and guys who score at high strike rates. With that being said, there is a lot of data available. Even though I might not have played against these guys a lot, the data helps you plan and come up with a few options. Its just about going out there, backing yourself, and trusting your process. Once you execute what you have planned, you will more than likely come out successful. Yet the growing influence of analytics has not diminished the importance of instinct. In fact, against a batting line-up that also has access to extensive data, the ability to make decisions in the moment could be just as important. Sometimes you have to let your instincts take over because, just as you are looking at data and trying to exploit a batters weaknesses, they are also looking at data to get better, he said. You have to make that judgment on the day based on how the batter is operating, the boundary sizes, the wind factor, and whether the pitch is spinning, grassy, flat, or made of red or black soil. You try to factor in all those things as quickly as possible to come up with the best plan. That adaptability will also be crucial when the West Indies arrive at the venue with information about how the surface has behaved previously. When we played the IPL here, I didnt play in that match. However, on the day, you make your plans. There is a lot of information out there; sometimes you hear that the ball spins at a venue, but when you arrive, it isnt spinning, he said. Its just about assessing conditions as quickly as possible, understanding your dos and donts for that particular day, and against specific batters. You formulate plans quickly, try to stay ahead of the batter, and stick to whats working. The spinner also stressed the importance of resisting the temptation to constantly change things simply because the opposition is strong. Dont get too greedy or experiment too much. Just stick to bowling the most difficult delivery for the batters to get away, and that should be your game plan, he said. While India will start as a formidable opponent, the West Indies are not approaching the series with any sense of intimidation. First of all, I didnt play in the ODIs; I just watched the matches, and its two different teams. However, I back my boys, he said. Even when we played them in the World Cup, we gave them a hell of a run. They know the fear we bring to T20 cricket and the brand we play. We know they are a dangerous team, but we are not going to back down. The West Indies spinner believes the contest could ultimately come down to which side handles the tactical battle better. Both teams are looking forward to the challenge. Its simply about who plans and executes best. We are going to focus only on the things we can control, rather than outside factors. If we go out and execute as well as possible, I think we will be successful, he said. The series also has a personal significance for the veteran, who is approaching his 100th T20I appearance. For now, however, he remains conscious that selection comes before the milestone. I wish I could see the next five years. First of all, Im still at 99 games; I have to get selected to play my 100th, he said. With that being said, its an achievement in itself. It shows that youre dedicated, hungry, and that your performances have been up to par. Its a great achievement and something to look back and smile on. Rather than treating the landmark as an endpoint, he sees it as another incentive to extend his international career. Who knows if I can make 100 more? Its motivation to continue pushing and see how many games I can play, he said. When you realise how many games a player has played, it shows they are doing something well and performing consistently. Thats always the challenge for metrying to perform and help my team win cricket games. There is also an individual ambition that remains firmly alive. Having previously reached the summit of the world rankings, the spinner wants to return to No. 1. Always. Ive been number one before, and the aim is always to get back there. Its a personal motivation, he said. There is also an individual ambition that remains firmly alive. Having previously reached the summit of the world rankings, the spinner wants to return to No. 1. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Baloda six-for bundles Australia Under-19 out cheaply on first day
India Under-19 lost both openers after the visitors folded for 174 on day one of second Youth Test
Mandeep Returns To Tripura Squad For 2026/27 Ranji Trophy, Lahiri Named Head Coach
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Seasoned batter Mandeep Singh has made a return to Tripura for the 2026/27 Ranji Trophy, after being named in the state's squad for their opening three games against Hyderabad, Assam & Karnataka, to be played in Secunderabad, Guwahati and Mysuru respectively. Mandeep, who has played three T20Is for India, had previously captained Tripura during the 2024/25 season after ending his 15-year association with Punjab, which he led to a historic Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy title. After missing the entire 2025/26 domestic calendar, the right-handed Mandeep has rejoined the north-eastern side. In his previous stint with Tripura, Mandeep made significant contributions across all formats -- playing six Ranji Trophy games, six Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, and seven Syed Mushtaq Ali T20 games. He notched an unbeaten 124 alongside five fifties in red-ball cricket, three half-centuries in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, including a top score of 94 against Bengal, and two fifties in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. Mandeep features alongside high-profile outstation recruits Hanuma Vihari and Swapnil Singh in the 18-member squad announced by the Tripura Cricket Association (TCA). Experienced seam-bowling all-rounder Mani Sankar Mura Singh will lead the team, with pacer Abhijit Sarkar, who was in the East Zone team that won this years Duleep Trophy, serving as the vice-captain. Tripura have also overhauled their support staff and have appointed former domestic batter and umpire Satrajit Lahiri as head coach. Lahiri, a Deodhar Trophy winner with East Zone in 1996/97, holds Level C coaching certification from the BCCI and Level 3 credentials from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Lahiri is supported by batting coach Aniruddha Saha, bowling coach Rajib Saha, physio Deepti Ranjan Parida, strength and conditioning coach Yuvraj Salvi, throwdown specialist Jayanta Debnath, masseur Niloyjyoti Saha, and video analyst Partha Banik. Tripura have also overhauled their support staff and have appointed former domestic batter and umpire Satrajit Lahiri as head coach. Lahiri, a Deodhar Trophy winner with East Zone in 1996/97, holds Level C coaching certification from the BCCI and Level 3 credentials from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
The Indian team is all set to take on the West Indies across five T20Is as part of their ongoing multi-format white-ball series. The two sides will take on each other in the first ODI...
J&K aims to iron out glitches for Ranji defence
With Dogra & Co. facing Madhya Pradesh in their opener on October 11, the 41-year-old stressed that there is only a need to fine-tune
Simon Cook Steps Down As Kent's Director Of Cricket After Promotion Season
County Championship Division One: Simon Cook has decided to step down from his role of director of cricket at Kent with immediate effect after having guided the club to promotion to Division One of the County Championship this season. Cook was appointed to the role in 2023 after he took over from Paul Downtown. In his first season in charge in 2024, Kent finished bottom in the County Championship Division One to get relegated. They were last in Division Two in 2025, but they secured a second-place finish this season to earn a promotion. Speaking on his exit, Cook reflected on his tenure with the club. Leading the cricket department at Kent has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. Ive thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Club and am incredibly proud of what we have achieved together across the Mens game, Womens game and talent pathway, Cook said. We have established a clear pathway for identifying and nurturing talent through the KRDP, MCC Hubs and SAC programmes that will benefit the Club in the years ahead. It has also been a privilege to be a part of the Professional Squads development. They are exceptionally talented and entering the prime years of their careers, which will allow them to enjoy a strong period of success, supported by coaches and staff who are capable of maximising that potential. The Club is now in a position to move beyond simply competing and to expect to challenge for honours across all formats, he added. Meanwhile, Lucy Arman also steps down from her role of Head of Womens Cricket with Kent. Kent Cricket has been a huge part of my life, from playing county cricket from the age of 12, to coaching within the pathway and, ultimately, becoming Head of Womens Cricket during such an enormous transformation of womens and girls cricket across the country, she said on leaving the club. It has also been a privilege to be a part of the Professional Squads development. They are exceptionally talented and entering the prime years of their careers, which will allow them to enjoy a strong period of success, supported by coaches and staff who are capable of maximising that potential. The Club is now in a position to move beyond simply competing and to expect to challenge for honours across all formats, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
After ODI Debut Against WI, Auqib Nabi Named In J&K's Ranji Trophy Preparatory Camp
Kashmir Cricket Stadium: Fresh off making his ODI debut for India in their recent 2-1 win over the West Indies, fast bowler Auqib Nabi has been named in Jammu & Kashmir's 18-member squad for the senior men's Ranji Trophy preparatory camp, scheduled to begin at the Sher-i-Kashmir Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Secretary Vivek Khajuria announced the list of players for the camp following approval from the selection committee. Nabi features alongside fellow express pacer Umran Malik, experienced batter and captain Paras Dogra, batters Abdul Samad, Shubham Khajuria, Qamran Iqbal, and left-arm spinner Abid Mushtaq, among others. The inclusion in the state camp comes right on the heels of Nabi's international debut in the second ODI between India and the West Indies at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati. Nabi was presented with his India cap by KL Rahul, and became the third player from Jammu & Kashmir to play for India after Malik and Parvez Rasool. But Nabi endured a stern test on a batting paradise, as he leaked 84 runs in 8.4 overs without taking a scalp. Nabis selection to Indias ODI team meant he didnt feature for J&K in their recent Irani Cup game, which they lost by 167 runs to Rest of India. Highly cited to get a Test cap following a record-breaking time in the 2025/26 Ranji Trophy, where he picked 60 wickets in Jammu & Kashmir, winning the title for the first time, Nabi was previously included in Indias Test squad for the series in Sri Lanka in August. The series was won by India 1-0, though Nabi did not feature in the playing eleven during that tour and later had a short County Championship stint with Surrey. Nabis performances will be closely watched by the selectors ahead of picking Indias squads for the three-game A team tour of New Zealand and the two-game Test series in the country, set to happen in October-November. J&K will commence their Ranji Trophy title defence against Madhya Pradesh in a clash starting in Srinagar on October 11 and will then host Vidarbha in the game starting on October 18. They also play an away match against Baroda and then host Puducherry at home before the Ranji Trophy season takes a break for white-ball tournaments. The series was won by India 1-0, though Nabi did not feature in the playing eleven during that tour and later had a short County Championship stint with Surrey. Nabis performances will be closely watched by the selectors ahead of picking Indias squads for the three-game A team tour of New Zealand and the two-game Test series in the country, set to happen in October-November. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'India moved beyond him': DK's verdict on Shami
Dinesh Karthik believes Mohammed Shami's chances of an India comeback are slim, stating the team has moved beyond him. He also expressed concerns about the future of ODI cricket once Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli retire, highlighting their significant impact on the sport.
IND vs WI 1st T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs
IND vs WI 1st T20I, Cricket Tips: The ODI series between India and West Indies was a highly fought one. Both teams recorded their highest ODI chases in the series. Now, the action moves to the T20I format. These two sides will take on each other in the five-match series, starting on October 6 (Tuesday). The first game will begin at 7 PM IST at Ekana Stadium. Team India are coming off winning the gold medal in the Asian Games 2026. But West Indies are also very strong in T20Is, which will add more spice to this series. West Indies have a strong batting lineup and they showed it in the third ODI. IND vs WI: Match Details Date : October 06, 2026 (Tuesday) Time : 7 PM IST Venue : Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow IND vs WI: Live Streaming Details The live action of the T20I series will be televised on the Star Sports networks. Fans can also watch the live stream of the game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND vs WI: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches: 31 India : 20 West Indies : 10 No-result: 1 IND vs WI: Ground Pitch Report Just like the ODI series, the wicket for the T20I series is also expected to be batting-friendly. The wicket in Lucknow is generally good for batting, and the ball comes nicely onto the bat. However, the wicket is expected to get slower with time, and spinners will get good assistance with the old ball. IND vs WI: Possible XIs India : Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (c), Tilak Varma, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Prince Yadav, Arshdeep Singh West Indies: Shai Hope (c & wk), Amir Jangoo, Sherfane Rutherford, Shimron Hetmyer, Rovman Powell, Romario Sherpherd, Roston Chase, Akeal Hosein, Gudakesh Motie, Matthew Forde, Shamar Joseph. IND vs WI: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Abhishek Sharma has delivered impactful performances with the bat, and he will be a dangerous batter for the opposition. For West Indies, Shai Hope is in excellent form and is coming off two consecutive centuries. Probable Best Bowler Kuldeep Yadav and Akeal Hosein will get good assistance from the wicket in Lucknow and will be tough to hit in the middle overs. Today Match Prediction : India will have an advantage of home conditions and will start this game as favorites. IND vs WI Match 1st T20I, Today Match IND vs WI, IND vs WI Prediction, IND vs WI Predicted XIs, Injury Update for India vs West Indies Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Reaching five years is a significant milestone for SA20: Graeme Smith
Digital Desk | Johannesburg, Oct 5 (IANS) The SA20 League celebrated five years of its journey on Sunday as the South African franchise competition looked ahead to its fifth season, with League Commissioner Graeme Smith describing the milestone as a moment of pride while promising further growth and innovation ahead of the 2027 edition. Since the tournaments inaugural ball was bowled before a sold-out crowd at Newlands on January 10, 2023, SA20 has established itself as a prominent fixture on the cricket calendar. The league has sold more than 1.6 million tickets across its first four seasons, attracted over 500 million television viewers and built a social media following of four million. As stakeholders, franchise representatives, partners and other members of the SA20 community gathered to mark the occasion, Smith credited the leagues growth to the collective backing it has received since its inception. Reaching five years is a significant milestone for SA20, but its not one weve reached alone. Its been built on the belief of our six franchises, who bought into this vision from the very first ball and have backed it every season since; the players, both local and international, who chose to be part of something new and helped shape what SA20 has become; the partners who bought into the dream when it was just that - a dream; and the fans, who have shown up season in and season out and made this league theirs. As we head into Season 5, we carry that same belief with us, and we cant wait to keep building on it together, Smith told SA20. The first four seasons have produced two champions, with Sunrisers Eastern Cape emerging as the dominant force. They won the inaugural title in 2023, retained it in 2024 and reclaimed the trophy in 2026. Their run was interrupted in 2025 when MI Cape Town secured their first SA20 title. The fifth season will again bring together leading South African players and some of the biggest international names in the game. David Miller, Kagiso Rabada, Aiden Markram, Lungi Ngidi and Ryan Rickelton are among the domestic stars expected to feature, while Jos Buttler, Sunil Narine, Rashid Khan, Phil Salt and Mitchell Marsh headline the international contingent. Smith believes that combination has been central to the competitions identity and its role in developing South African cricket. The combination of international stars, Proteas players and South Africas emerging talent has been one of the defining features of SA20, with the competition providing a platform for the countrys next generation to perform alongside some of the worlds best, Smith added. The Season 5 squad-building process will continue at the Player Auction in Johannesburg on October 7. A total of 19 player slots remain available across the four participating franchises, with a maximum purse of $2.10 million. Durbans Super Giants and Paarl Royals have already completed their 19-player squads and therefore will not take part in the auction. The new season will begin on January 17, 2027, at St Georges Park in Gqeberha, where defending champions Sunrisers Eastern Cape will host Pretoria Capitals in a repeat of the previous seasons final. The month-long competition will subsequently travel across South Africa, with all six franchises competing for the SA20 trophy. Reflecting on the leagues growth and its plans for the future, Smith said the tournament would continue to focus on both the quality of cricket and the experience for spectators. What we have seen over the past four seasons has shown us that the love for cricket has always been there. SA20 has created a platform for world-class cricket, new talent and unforgettable fan experiences. As we enter our fifth season, we are excited to continue building on the legacy and introducing new innovations that will deliver memorable spectator experiences, Smith concluded. Tickets for Season 5 are scheduled to go on sale on November 5, 2026, through the SA20 website and ticket offices at the six participating stadiums.
Bhuvneshwar To Lead A Strong Indian Side At Hong Kong Sixes 2026
Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground: Team India will bring a star-studded IPL contingent for the 2026 Hong Kong Sixes, with seven leading Indian cricketers set to take on the fast-paced six-a-side format from 30 October to 1 November. Leading Team India will be seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, alongside fellow IPL performers Krunal Pandya, Shashank Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi and T. Natarajan. The squad brings together a mix of international experience, explosive batting, all-round ability and specialist bowling to one of crickets fastest and most entertaining formats. Bhuvneshwar brings years of international and IPL experience and the ability to make an impact with the new ball, while Krunal provides the versatility of a proven all-rounder. Nitish adds aggressive stroke play and experience at the top of the order, while Shashank and Tewatia bring proven finishing ability. Tripathi adds attacking intent, with Natarajan providing a specialist left-arm pace option. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Director of Marketing and Commercial, Cricket Hong Kong, said, We are very grateful to the Indian cricket authorities for their support in helping us put together arguably one of the strongest sides that has represented India in the history of the Sixes. This will surely prove to be a quantum leap forward in terms of viewership and further validation for this iconic tournament. Team India will return to the Hong Kong Sixes looking to go deeper into the competition after opening their 2025 campaign with a two-run DLS victory over Pakistan before exiting the tournament following defeats in their subsequent matches. The challenge will be formidable. Pakistan enters the 2026 edition as defending champions, having defeated debutants Kuwait in last year's final to claim a record sixth Hong Kong Sixes title. The 2026 tournament will feature eight major cricketing nations alongside four Associate Members, setting the stage for three days of fast-paced, attacking cricket at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground. The Hong Kong Sixes has distinctive short-format competitions. Played with six players per side, the tournament compresses the intensity of a full cricket match into a rapid-fire format where boundaries, innovative shots, wickets and momentum shifts come thick and The 2026 tournament will feature eight major cricketing nations alongside four Associate Members, setting the stage for three days of fast-paced, attacking cricket at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India A's pace trio has a point to prove against Australia
Young Indian fast bowlers Gurjapneet Singh, Arshad Khan, and Yash Thakur are set to feature in the India A vs Australia A one-day series, aiming to showcase their talent and address the senior national team's current scarcity in the pace department. The series, initially anticipated for Hardik Pandya's return, now serves as a crucial platform for these emerging pacers to catch the attention of national selectors amidst injuries and inconsistent form among established bowlers.
Fast-Rising Pace Bowler Hasan Mahmud Says Test Cricket Momentum Turning For Bangladesh
Fast-rising pace bowler Hasan Mahmud said on Monday Bangladesh's upward trajectory has made a place in the World Test Championship final a realistic dream for his team. Bangladesh are fourth in the World Test Championship standings after a shock nine-wicket victory over Australia in Darwin in August, a result that highlighted the strides made by a side long regarded as Test underachievers. The momentum is coming towards us, definitely, Hasan, 26, told AFP in an interview in Dhaka. The atmosphere is such that Bangladesh can now dominate in Test cricket, said the right-arm bowler, who played a key role by taking 6-55 in Darwin. We haven't dominated (in Test cricket). Now is the time. Hasan said the Darwin victory could be a springboard for bigger achievements for Bangladesh, who have won six of their 13 Tests in the past two years. Bangladesh have six Tests remaining in the current World Test Championship cycle, including home series against the West Indies and England, as well as a tour of South Africa. If we win four matches at home, why shouldn't we play in the World Test Championship final? That's the dream for Bangladesh now, Hasan said. The paceman, who enjoyed a successful county stint with Kent this year, has been a central figure in Bangladesh's recent rise. Nicknamed Mini-McGrath after the Australian great Glenn McGrath, he believes the perception of Bangladeshi pace bowling is changing as the South Asian country produces a new generation of quicks. Since we started playing, the thinking has changed, he said. They now realise Bangladesh also has good-quality fast bowlers who can be world-class. Hasan's aggressive approach was evident during the Australia series, where he focused on building pressure on batsmen. I was just doing my job and bowling. I wasn't giving them anything easy to hit. I would attack them with the short ball and keep bowling my way. If they hit me, they hit me, he said. Bangladesh were unable to clinch the two-Test series, with Australia claiming the second Test in Mackay by an innings and 51 runs. However, Hasan said he was confident that Bangladesh's graph will continue to move upward in the coming days. Look at how much we've improved in Test cricket, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories If the fast bowlers stay in good shape and the batsmen remain in form, then we will go to a higher level.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Is Not Like We Used To Be: India Teammate's Stunning Verdict On Teenager
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has already gained enough exposure to understand the demands of professional cricket, according to his teammate, while the senior members of the squad are making a conscious effort to ensure he feels at home.
I Never Chased Milestones: Abhishek Sharma Reveals The Secret Behind His Success
Abhishek Sharma has credited the freedom provided by his teammates and coaches for allowing him to embrace an aggressive, impact-driven approach, saying his ambition has never been centred on personal milestones but on helping India and his teams win trophies.
Why Sooryavanshi Will Have To Wait: Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir has told Vaibhav Sooryavanshi that despite his impressive form, he will need to wait for his opportunity in the T20 team due to the established players and the importance of team continuity.
India, West Indies Fined By ICC After Third ODI In Chandigarh. This Is The Reason
India have been fined 20 per cent of their match fee, and the West Indies have been fined 10 per cent of their match fee after the third and final ODI of the three-match series.
Abdominal Strain May Rule Out Green From Australias First Test Against South Africa
The West Australian: Star all-rounder Cameron Green could be forced to miss Australias opening Test against South Africa, starting in Durban on October 9, as he continues his recovery from an abdominal strain. A report in The West Australian on Monday said if Green doesnt play the first Test at Kingsmead, it hands a potential look into the playing eleven for his Western Australian teammate, batting all-rounder Cooper Connolly. Green sustained the injury while playing a hook shot during the third ODI against the Proteas and has been in a race against time to regain match fitness. Green, 27, was absent from Australias two-day warm-up fixture in Potchefstroom and was restricted to minor physical conditioning work on the sidelines. As per the report, Green could be targeting the second or third Test for his return to action. The setback is particularly frustrating for the Australian selectors as Green had also been nursing a sore shoulder through the recent ODI series, which limited his bowling workload. The latest abdominal strain impacts his batting, bowling, and fielding capabilities, thus depriving Australia of a key balance provider in their playing eleven. Green had been in fine touch with the bat - having registered a Test century against Bangladesh in Darwin, and finished as one of the standout batters in that series alongside Steve Smith. Greens potential absence firmly places Connolly in line for a potential second Test appearance after making his debut in Sri Lanka early last year. The Durban pitch, historically expected to offer assistance to slow bowlers, could favour Connollys inclusion as a spin-all-rounder who offers handy left-arm orthodox bowling option alongside his middle-order batting. Green's injury also guarantees Beau Webster a spot in the playing eleven, while wicketkeeper-batter Sam Harper and veteran Nic Maddinson were brought into the Australian Test squad last week. But the inclusion of the 34-year-old Maddinson, who last played Test cricket a decade ago and has been out of red-ball action for 18 months, has drawn sharp criticism from former Australian speedster Mitchell Johnson. Green's injury also guarantees Beau Webster a spot in the playing eleven, while wicketkeeper-batter Sam Harper and veteran Nic Maddinson were brought into the Australian Test squad last week. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
I Think About What They Are Thinking: Abhishek Sharma Reveals How He Prepares For Bowlers
Abhishek Sharma: Abhishek Sharma has revealed that his preparation for international cricket increasingly involves trying to anticipate the plans of opposing bowlers, with the India opener using video analysis and hypothetical match-ups to prepare for the challenges posed by world-class attacks. Speaking ahead of Indias new home season against the West Indies, Abhishek explained that his aggressive batting is accompanied by detailed planning designed to ensure he is ready when bowlers refuse to give him his preferred scoring options. Its not like I just go and hit. I know there are world-class bowlers, world-class teams ahead, and they wont give away easy runs, and they wont easily let me hit the shots I want to play. But as a player, I feel this is my responsibility, that I think about what they are thinking, Abhishek said on JioStar. The left-hander said he has recently been working with his video analyst by reversing the perspective and imagining himself as part of the opposition trying to devise a plan against him. Recently, Ive been talking with my video analyst that, If you were in the other team, probably, just imagine youve been working with the Afghanistan team right now, then what plans would you keep for me as a bowler? So, I asked him that, took videos from him. So, I keep preparing myself, that they wont bowl where I want. I will have to make some adjustments. They are not going to give you easy runs. So, I prepare myself like that, he added. The left-hander said he has recently been working with his video analyst by reversing the perspective and imagining himself as part of the opposition trying to devise a plan against him. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'His time will come': Shreyas Iyer on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Despite limited opportunities in the playing XI, India skipper Shreyas Iyer has expressed strong confidence in young cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, stating that the 15-year-old's time to dominate Indian cricket will come.
When I Saw Mukesh's Rhythm, I Knew 'kuch Kaatilana Spell Aayega': Akash Deep After Irani Cup Win
Match Smaran Ravichandran: Unwavering belief, a united team effort, and a spectacular comeback victory marked the Rest of Indias epic Irani Cup triumph over Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir, as the players reflected on the fierce fightback that made the title win possible. Akash Deep highlighted the intensity of the contest and praised his bowling partner Mukesh Kumars terrific rhythm, which gave him an inkling that a superb spell was coming from his hand. Akash Deeps intuition became true as Mukesh picked 6-33 to bowl out J&K for 111 and get a 167-run win for Rest of India. The competitive way in which the match was going on, it was a lot of fun to win this match because if you win any match in this way, it's a lot of fun. I was bowling from the other end, and when I saw Mukesh's rhythm in the morning, I felt that he was running with a good rhythm. It was like aaj kuch kaatilana spell aayega (an absolute thrilling spell would come from him). The way the ball was coming out of his hand, I was sure that he would bowl really well, Akash Deep said in a video posted on BCCI Domestics social media accounts on Monday. Mukesh, whose standout performance turned the tide in Rest of Indias favour, spoke about the satisfaction of overcoming J&K, the reigning Ranji Trophy champions. It's a really good feeling. The team is from the Rest of India, and winning against a Ranji Trophy champion team always makes for a tough competition. So, it's a really good feeling. It's a different feeling to take a five-wicket haul. I was enjoying bowling and I had support from the inside, I told him to give it his all, there's nothing to worry about just do what you have been doing so far. He supported me and told me to do what I was doing, he said. Player of the Match Smaran Ravichandran expressed pride in delivering for the side, especially with his decisive second innings knock of 135. It's a very proud moment for me to win the player of the match, especially in a big game like the Irani Cup final. Yes, I felt the situation was not very easy when I went into bat, and I'm glad that I could get the job done for the team, he said. Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar commended the collective individual brilliance across both innings. We've been playing for two years, and as soon as we won this match, it was an amazing feeling. Smaran's batting in the first and second innings was really exceptional, and even when Mukesh Choudhary bowled in the first innings, it was really good piece of bowling, he said. Opener Sanat Sangwan described the thrilling four-day victory as unforgettable. It's surreal, and the way we played these four days, it was amazing, and it's a really special feeling, he said. Vice-captain Sarfaraz Khan, who led the charge on day four as Rishabh Pant sat out due to fever, was in praise of the camaraderie within the group despite players coming from different states. Obviously, we're from different states, but when we're together, everyone's unity is good, and when we win a match, it's a really fantastic feeling. Four matches played and I won all four Irani matches, he said. Pant signed off by attributing the success to total team integration across support staff and players. Everyone has contributed to this team - the coaches and players. Smaran has played an outstanding winning game and brought us back into the game. Obviously, we're from different states, but when we're together, everyone's unity is good, and when we win a match, it's a really fantastic feeling. Four matches played and I won all four Irani matches, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India, West Indies fined by the ICC after third ODI due to slow over-rate; Check details
The ODI series between India and the West Indies ended with the Men in Blue clinching the three-game affair. Winning the first and second ODI of the series, India won the series but ended up losing the third ODI. For the final game of the ODI series, India took on the West Indies in New Chandigarh, and the Windies managed to register a brilliant victory after an incredible performance in the game.
'I had only one goal that is to win trophies, says Abhishek on his impact-first approach
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 5 (IANS) Abhishek Sharma has credited the freedom provided by his teammates and coaches for allowing him to embrace an aggressive, impact-driven approach, saying his ambition has never been centred on personal milestones but on helping India and his teams win trophies. The 26-year-old, who was part of Indias ICC Mens T20 World Cup-winning side, discussed his playing philosophy ahead of the new home season against the West Indies. Abhishek traced the development of his mindset to his domestic cricket days, when he began placing greater emphasis on influencing matches rather than chasing individual numbers. When I started, I thought that I have to play in a way that I can play impactful innings for my team. That started from my Punjab team in domestic cricket and we won the domestic T20 competition in 2024. From there, I feel, a mindset developed that I dont have to chase milestones, because thats not in your hands. Whats in your hands is how much impact you can make. That is how I want to play, no matter what opposition we are playing. As an individual, I never had this urge that I should achieve this, achieve that. I had only one goal that I have to win trophies. I feel that you need a lot of support from the team, the management, the coaches, the captain, because they know how you play. I feel they have helped me quite a lot, the entire team, not just the support staff, even the players as well, senior players. So now, like it has happened for me when I was new, the new players should also get that freedom, they should feel that they belong here. So, I really enjoy that when I talk with Vaibhav or with other young players, Abhishek told JioStar. That backing, according to Abhishek, has been crucial in allowing him to play without being constrained by the pressure of reaching specific statistical targets.
Doing it once, I feel, is still easy: Abhishek Sharma wants Indias winning habit to continue
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 5 (IANS) Fresh from being part of Indias Asian Games gold-medal-winning campaign, Abhishek Sharma is looking beyond the celebrations, saying the challenge for the young Indian side is to turn its recent success into a sustained winning habit as they begin the new home season against the West Indies. The opener said repeating success requires the team to preserve the same processes and collective hunger that helped it win the World Cup. I feel, in cricket especially, when I came, I was 24, now I am 26, as a young cricketer, you tell yourself that theres still a lot to achieve, its just a start. Doing it once, I feel, is still easy, but making that thing a habit and doing it again and again, keeping the process the same, its not easy as a player. But if the atmosphere in the team is such that everyone wants to perform for each other, wants to make India win, wants to dominate, then I feel it becomes a habit and it definitely helps, Abhishek told JioStar. For Abhishek, the emphasis is therefore less on the achievement already secured and more on building an environment in which winning can become a recurring outcome. The 26-year-old believes a collective desire to succeed can help India maintain its intensity from one tournament to another. That approach also shapes the way he interacts with the next generation inside the dressing room, including 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who has emerged as his young opening partner. Abhishek said the teenage batter has already gained enough exposure to understand the demands of professional cricket, while the senior members of the squad are making a conscious effort to ensure he feels at home. He is a very smart guy. He is not like how we used to behave at 15 or anyone does because he has already been in that cricket setup for 2-3 years. So he knows what, where, and how much to practice. I feel gradually these are things he will learn more with experience. And what we discuss in the team with each other, all teammates, is how we can make him more comfortable. Because we all know what he has achieved and that he belongs here. So I also feel like its my duty as well, to make him feel that all of us, his elder brothers, are here for him. You just have to enjoy and just give your best and win the games whenever you get the chance, he added. The West Indies series provides India with the first opportunity to build on their World Cup success in the new home season.
After HIL, our focus will be on building a fresh squad for LA 2028: India head coach Craig Fulton
Digital Desk | Nagoya, Oct 5 (IANS) After the Indian mens hockey team successfully defended their Asian Games crown for the very first time in the sport's history, head coach Craig Fulton said that LA 2028 is not far away and that once the Hockey India League (HIL) gets over, he will have to build a new team afresh. This will include infusing more young faces in the team in order to strike a fine balance between youth and experience. LA 2028 is within two years. It seems a long way off, but it obviously comes around pretty quick. I think at the moment were just trying to get the right schedule, the right planning in place, the big blocks of what is the preparation like, two years out, one year out, six months out, and plan accordingly to that. Yeah, I think every team has its phases at and flows with experience and youth. We have a good group of experienced players with us now, Craig Fulton told SAI Media. We have some youth, but we have a lot of youth in the Indian A team and a strong Under-21 team as well, which is great. So in the next two-three months, I think just post the Hockey India League, we'll have a look at all the talent that we have, choose new squad, and start afresh from there, the 51-year-old added. This was the fifth gold medal overall for the Indian mens hockey team in the continental sports extravaganza after 1966 Bangkok, 1998 Bangkok, 2014 Incheon and 2022 Hangzhou editions. Fulton, who represented South Africa in the 1996 and 2004 Summer Olympic Games, said defending back-to-back gold medals was always special. Personally, this Asian Games was very unique. It was very different to the last Asian Games as we were isolated out here in a sense of away from the other events and athletes. There was no so-called Games Village. But at the same time, we had our own routine. We went to the field, we played, we came back, and everything is the same. But Hangzhou, being the first gold medal, was very special. But to come back and defend it back-to-back golds is always special, he said. India edged past arch-rivals Pakistan 4-3 by scoring in the dying minutes of the match at the Gifu Prefectural Green Stadium, squandering a 3-0 lead. Captain Harmanpreet Singh (5, 13) and Sukhjeet Singh (23) gave India a 3-0 lead but Abu Mahmood (30), Hannan Shahid (45) and Waheed Rana (49) brought Pakistan back on level terms. It was Abhishek who scored in the final minute of the match to take India into the mens final. Everything did go according to plan. We had a really good first half, and then the third quarter was difficult. Pakistan is that team that if you give them any free opportunities, they take them and they are a great team, and they showed that. They came back nicely and put us under a lot of pressure from 3-0 to 3-all. We still had some good chances in that period, but we couldnt finish, we couldnt score. And found a way in the last minute to do so and to get the fourth goal, which helped us make the final, Fulton said. The feat was a first-ever double gold finish for the mens and womens hockey teams at the Asian Games. It was only the third Indian team sport to have a double gold finish after Kabaddi and Cricket at Aichi-Nagoya. The turnaround was fuelled by the Sports Authority of Indias (SAI) support of INR 77.8 Crore on both the mens and womens hockey teams, including the national coaching camp, international competition exposure, remuneration of foreign coach and equipment support, among others. I think the government is our biggest supporter in terms of the resources and the funds that they put forward to helping the grassroots programs all the way through to the 18s, 21s, seniors. Without them, obviously, I don't know what would happen if they didn't put as much support and resources around. But at the same time, by doing that the girls stand on the podium winning gold for the first time in 44 years. And we're fortunate enough to go back to back. Yes, that's domination in Asia. We obviously want to do that on the world stage. And the women had a fantastic World Cup, and the men obviously had a fantastic Paris. So the balance is there. The resources are there. But the main thing is we just got to keep pushing forward to find the talent and expose it on the international platform, he signed off.
Gautam Gambhir Reveals Shreyas Iyer's 'Rare' Captaincy Quality That Left Him Stunned
Gautam Gambhir and Shreyas Iyer share a strong bond that dates back to 2024, when they were part of the Kolkata Knight Riders setup in the IPL. While Gambhir served as the team's mentor, Iyer led the side as captain, and together they guided KKR to their third IPL title.
'Rohit Will Be Crucial In 2027 WC': Karthik Praises Ex-captain For Windies Knock
CA International Cricket Stadium: Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik heaped praise on Rohit Sharma for his measured knock in the third ODI against the West Indies in a tough situation, highlighting that his outing showed why he will be crucial for India in the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. India lost their captain, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli in the first three overs, and with conditions offering a bite for the fast bowlers, the Men in Blue were under the pump in the third rubber at the CA International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh. However, Rohit dropped the anchor and negated the tough period with Ruturaj Gaikwad before smashing 92 from 85 balls. Taking note of how Rohit sailed the ship through the tough shores before cashing in, former cricketers Karthik and Ajinkya Rahane heaped praise on the former captain, with the former highlighting that his innings proved why he will be crucial for the Men in Blue in the 2027 World Cup. The beauty of having experience is that they have seen this situation a lot before. If you take Rohit Sharma, when he saw the two early wickets fall, if you see he was on 20 for the first 40 balls with a 50 strike rate. That was because he knew he could trust himself and back it up and get those runs quickly. And then you see how quickly he moved to 92 after scoring less than a run-a ball. His strike rate went above 100, but he made that all up in the next 40 balls. In the first 40 balls, he took time, didn't allow wickets to fall and then in the next 40 balls, he went and smashed, Karthik said on Cricbuzz. With West Indies bowling well and reaping the rewards from the pitch, Rohit curbed his aggressive instincts to play time before going all guns blazing. Karthik believed that can also happen in South Africa, highlighting how experience can be crucial at that time. He saw Jayden Seales was bowling a good spell; Alzarri (Joseph) was bowling nice and sharp. He took time, waited for them to bowl in his areas and if not, I am happy to defend. To have that courage and conviction in that moment is what experience is. A lot of people would have tried to do a little more than they should because they would fear. A young Rohit Sharma would have made that mistake but today he has a wealth of experience. The same thing could have happen even in South Africa, and that's when the experience of a Rohit or Shubman or Virat can come through, where they are able to lower their gears down and say, 'okay I am not going to play big for the moment, and I know I can make up later, he added. He saw Jayden Seales was bowling a good spell; Alzarri (Joseph) was bowling nice and sharp. He took time, waited for them to bowl in his areas and if not, I am happy to defend. To have that courage and conviction in that moment is what experience is. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
