Nortje Ruled Out Of South Africas Test Series Decider Against Australia Due To Groin Injury
Cricket South Africa: South Africa fast bowler Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the series decider against Australia due to a mild groin injury, with Cricket South Africa (CSA) opting against naming his replacement in the squad. The three-match series is currently locked at 1-1, with the final Test starting at Newlands in Cape Town on Tuesday. Nortje suffered the injury while bowling in the first innings of the second Test in Gqeberha on Wednesday, and scans done on the following day confirmed the injury. The pacer walked off midway through his fourth over on the fourth morning at St George's Park and did not return, as he spent the rest of the match in the dressing room. The setback cut short a promising return to Test cricket for Nortje, who had not played a red-ball game in more than three-and-a-half years before the series opener in Durban. Nortje had been expected to be rested for the second Test, but South Africa retained him in the playing eleven after he came through the opener without any trouble. The length of Nortjes lay-off is not yet clear. South Africa will now have to pick between Gerald Coetzee, who has not played a Test in nearly two years, all-rounder Corbin Bosch and pacer Dane Paterson to fill the slot left by Nortjes absence in the playing eleven. The trio have been with the squad since the first Test. Should South Africa prefer a spinner, left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Senuran Muthusamy could also come into contention. South Africa are also monitoring several other injured players ahead of a busy summer. Lungi Ngidi, who hurt his hamstring in the opening round of the domestic first-class competition, is expected to be back in action next month and could feature against Bangladesh. Ottneil Baartman, who also injured his hamstring, returned for the Dolphins in the Pro20 competition on Friday and picked 4-12. There is no update on left-arm pacer Kwena Maphaka or batter Tony de Zorzi, who injured his hamstring in the third ODI against Australia last month. Lungi Ngidi, who hurt his hamstring in the opening round of the domestic first-class competition, is expected to be back in action next month and could feature against Bangladesh. Ottneil Baartman, who also injured his hamstring, returned for the Dolphins in the Pro20 competition on Friday and picked 4-12. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: Phillips And Jacobs' Fifties Lead New Zealand To 180/5 Against India In Christchurch
With New Zealand: Glenn Phillips and Bevon Jacobs put up impressive half-centuries to lead New Zealand to a decent total of 180/5 in the second T20I of the five-match series against India at the Hagley Oval here on Saturday. With New Zealand's backs against the wall at 41/3 after 5.2 overs, Phillips (70 off 43 balls) and Jacobs (58 off 46 balls) put up a fighting 116-run partnership for the fourth wicket to lead the comeback for the hosts in the second match, which was played on the same venue and the same pitch as that run-scoring first T20I. The surface, however, behaved much better for the bowlers this time around, with the batters finding it hard to hit the hard lengths, and the Indian bowlers also bowled well, especially in the powerplay and then at the death. India began pretty well and tested the New Zealand batters with their hard lengths. The second T20I is being played at the same venue and on the same pitch which hosted the first match between the two sides. With the game being played on a used surface, some wear and tear played a role in the bowling extracting help and troubling the batters. India sent the hosts down to 43/3 in the powerplay as Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh and Prince Yadav took a wicket each. The Indian bowlers were spot on with their plans, bowling a lot more good-length and short balls and not going fuller for the Kiwi batters to get under the ball and go big. When they occasionally missed, the Kiwis pounced. Phillips and Jacobs put up a stellar 116-run stand off 76 balls for the fourth wicket. This was New Zealand's first century stand for the fourth or lower wicket in T20Is against India, surpassing the 99 which Tim Seifert and Ross Taylor had put against the Men in Blue at Mount Maunganui in 2020. The visitors began well when Arshdeep struck in the second over to remove Tim Seifert, who miscued a wild mow for Tilak Varma to hold the catch at covers. Bhuvneshwar Kumar followed suit in the next over to get his first wicket on his India return. He removed Daryl Mitchell for six, with the Kiwi batter getting a leading edge to a back-tracking Tilak at extra cover. Prince Yadav removed Finn Allen in the final over of the powerplay as he cleaned him up. The Kiwis then dug deep to rebuild, with Phillips and Jacobs doing the heavy lifting. India deployed spinners, as Axar Patel and Naman Dhir also got help from the surface. The two kept the scoreboard ticking and brought up their 50-run partnership off 43 balls. They began pouncing on any errors India made as Axar was taken to 11 runs in the 15th over before Bhuvi was hit for 18 in the next one and Prince for 12 in the 17th over. Both players brought up their half-centuries, as Phillips made it two-in-two, having also made a fifty in the previous game. He got to his half-century off 33 balls, while Jacobs made a fifty off 40 balls. Jacobs was also dropped by India captain Shreyas Iyer off Prince in the 11th over. The two managed to put 116 in 76 balls before India struck back in the death overs. Arshdeep finally got the breakthrough in the 18th over when he removed Phillips, caught at deep point by Naman Dhir. Nitish Kumar Reddy followed it up when he got Jacobs out on a full toss at long-off by Axar. Michael Bracewell joined captain Mitchell Santner, and the former hit a couple of boundaries to take the Kiwis to a decent total of 180/5. For India, Arshdeep turned out to be the pick of the bowlers as he took 2-33 in his four overs, while Bhuvneshwar, Prince and Nitish also took a wicket each. Nitish Kumar Reddy followed it up when he got Jacobs out on a full toss at long-off by Axar. Michael Bracewell joined captain Mitchell Santner, and the former hit a couple of boundaries to take the Kiwis to a decent total of 180/5. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Anrich Nortje ruled out of third Test vs Australia, South Africa announce updated squad
Ace pacer Anrich Nortje has been ruled out of the third Test against Australia at Newlands in Cape Town. Cricket South Africa (CSA) has confirmed the development, announcing an updated squad for the series finale, now tied at 1-1.
MI Should Go Big For Sushma Verma At WPL Auction: Reema Malhotra
Caribbean Premier League: Former India cricketer Reema Malhotra believes Mumbai Indians should target wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma at the upcoming Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027 auction to address their concerns at the top of the order. According to Reema, Mumbai need to settle their opening combination and find a replacement for wicketkeeper-batter G Kamalini, while also strengthening their spin and pace-bowling options ahead of the fifth season. Mumbai Indians, who missed out on the playoffs in WPL 2026, have retained a core group of 11 players led by captain Harmanpreet Kaur. The franchise will enter the auction, scheduled to be held in Kochi on October 28, with a purse of Rs 1 crore. The best thing for the Mumbai Indians is that they head into the auction with the least money, which means the least problems. They have retained their core group but need to sort out a few problems. One major problem is their opening pair, Reema told Jio Star. Last season, G. Kamalini opened with Hayley Matthews, and then Amelia Kerr was tried as an opener as well. They kept changing their opening pair, and now they head into the auction looking to solve that. By letting go of G Kamalini, they lost their wicketkeeper batter, and they let go of Saika Ishaque too, so they are also on the hunt for a spinner to partner Vaishnavi Sharma, she added. Reema identified Sushma Verma as a potential solution to Mumbais opening and wicketkeeping concerns, citing her performances in domestic cricket and the Womens Caribbean Premier League. To solve the problem of an opening batter who can keep wickets, the Mumbai Indians should go after Sushma Verma. She had an amazing domestic season with the bat and performed well in the Womens Caribbean Premier League too. Plus, she was called for trials by the MI team management, and I feel Mumbai is going to go big for Sushma Verma in the mini-auction, she said. Reema also backed all-rounder Amanjot Kaur, who is recovering from a back injury at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, to retain her place in the side. Mumbai Indians will surely back Amanjot Kaur as the all-rounder. Shes a three-dimensional player and someone whos not replaceable. Shes been the star of the team for the last two seasons, so I find no reason for her exclusion from the team, she said. She also pointed to Sajeevan Sajana as a player Mumbai is likely to continue backing after investing in her over the last three years, while naming Shweta Sehrawat as another potential target following her release by UP Warriorz. They have invested a lot in S. Sajana over the last three years, so she is likely to retain her spot in the playing XI, unless they pick a dynamic finisher or an Indian batter who can replace her, which can be Shweta Sehrawat. She had a good domestic season, and UP Warriorz has released her this time. So, Mumbai will keep an eye on her as well, Reema said. Mumbai have also strengthened their pace attack by trading USA left-arm pacer Tara Norris from UP Warriorz for WPL 2027 at her existing fee of Rs 10 lakh. Norris, who was previously part of MI London, became the first bowler to take a five-wicket haul in the WPL. However, Reema stressed that Mumbai should also invest in an Indian pacer to provide cover if Norris is unavailable or unable to deliver wickets consistently. Tara Norris arrival is good news for Mumbai Indians because it strengthens their pace bowling unit. She was the first bowler to pick up a five-wicket haul in the WPL, and her bowling skills will help Mumbai a lot. But if Tara Norris picks up an injury or doesnt find that wicket-taking form, then Mumbai will be in trouble, she said. Which is why I want them to go after an Indian pacer who can step up if things dont go as planned with Tara Norris, she added. Reema said Mumbais limited auction purse could make it practical to target young Indian players who can provide depth to their bowling attack. If Mumbai get a young Indian pacer, then they will have a proper backup option who can bowl in the powerplay and at the death, and that will give them more depth in their pace attack, she said. Reema said Mumbais limited auction purse could make it practical to target young Indian players who can provide depth to their bowling attack. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
It took Tilak Varma only three overs in the second India vs New Zealand T20I on Saturday to achieve a world record
'It's Great For Cricket, Brings People Back': Phillips On Close Series Opener Vs IND
The T20Is: New Zealand batter Glenn Phillips called the close, high-scoring first T20I against India a fantastic match, which is great for cricket as Hagley Oval in Christchurch saw a run-feast, where India chased down a record 226 with four wickets in hand. Speaking ahead of the second T20I between New Zealand and India at the same venue on Saturday, the New Zealand batter referenced that close games are great and that they help the crowd to return to the stadiums and watch cricket. Yeah, it's fantastic, great for cricket (on close first game). To be able to have a game like that, going 220, playing 220, I think it's great for this crowd. It brings people back, and that's great for the game, he told broadcasters ahead of the second match. The T20Is these days are often played with quick turnaround, as is seen during the New Zealand-India series. The two teams began the five-match series on Thursday and are again playing on Saturday with less than 48 hours of gap between the end of the opener and the start of the second game at the same venue. Phillips, who made an unbeaten 82 from 40 balls in the opener, spoke on the importance of recovery during the short turnaround. Yeah, I think it's about getting rest and recovery in. Obviously it's been fantastic down here in Christchurch, weather-wise. So I think a few of the boys got out there, played some golf, tried to get their mind off the game as much as possible, and then come back here and refresh and recover for today, he said. He also said that he had a short break with his mates to Newton Peak and to the Southern Alps in between the two matches for some refreshment. Yeah, for me, I actually took a couple of mates up flying. We went out to Newton Peak and to the Southern Alps. Fantastic. It was great to get out there, just free the mind for a little bit, do something that I love, and I guess come back, enjoy the evening, and rest and recover for today, he added. Phillips switched to a left-hander against Bhuvneshwar Kumar on the final ball of New Zealand's innings and nailed a four on the final ball to take the Kiwis to 225/4. He admitted that he trains batting left-handed during the IPL and unleashed his learnings in the game. Yeah, I try to, especially when we have, I guess, the time overseas, like the IPL, for example, where you've got lots of net opportunities, lots of sidearms, lots of throwers. I guess it's a little bit remiss to not use that opportunity to upskill. Phillips switched to a left-hander against Bhuvneshwar Kumar on the final ball of New Zealand's innings and nailed a four on the final ball to take the Kiwis to 225/4. He admitted that he trains batting left-handed during the IPL and unleashed his learnings in the game. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
KL Rahul, Jaiswal Fail As New Zealand A Rout India A On Opening Day
KL Rahul: India A endured a difficult opening day against New Zealand A in the first unofficial Test in Lincoln, with the hosts exploiting favourable seam conditions to bowl out the visitors for 113 before building a 22-run lead by stumps on Saturday. New Zealand A, who elected to field after winning the toss, made full use of the green surface as Simon Keene claimed five wickets for 24 runs and Zak Gibson took three for 29. India As batting line-up struggled to withstand the sustained pressure, with only Yash Rathod and Devdutt Padikkal managing to offer meaningful resistance. KL Rahuls stay ended without scoring after he chased a delivery outside off stump, while Yashasvi Jaiswal managed 17 before edging behind to first slip. Keene then struck twice in quick succession, dismissing Sai Sudharsan for a duck and captain Dhruv Jurel for one, leaving India A in early trouble. Padikkal provided some stability at No. 3, reaching 32 before falling off the first delivery he faced after lunch. His dismissal left the visitors reeling at 56 for five, and the situation deteriorated further as Washington Sundar departed without scoring. The lower order offered little resistance as India A slipped to 81 for nine, with Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi and Akash Deep unable to turn their starts into substantial contributions. Rathod, however, produced a spirited counterattack to prevent the innings from ending even sooner. The right-hander struck three sixes and remained unbeaten on 44, taking the attack to the bowlers after New Zealand A had dominated for much of the innings. Keene eventually completed his five-wicket haul by dismissing Mukesh Choudhary, bringing India As innings to a close in 39.2 overs. New Zealand As reply began cautiously as Curtis Heaphy and captain Rhys Mariu negotiated the challenging conditions. Mariu was given an early reprieve when Jaiswal failed to hold a catch at the third slip off Akash Deep, allowing the opener to continue his innings. The hosts gradually established control through a century-opening partnership, with Heaphy remaining unbeaten on 37 and Mariu leading the scoring. The captain reached 76 before Choudhary trapped him leg before wicket, finally breaking through for India A. Auqib Nabi then swung the momentum briefly in the visitors favour, dismissing night watchman Jayden Lennox before removing Tim Robinson leg before wicket with the next delivery. The sequence left Nabi one wicket away from a hat-trick, but the close of play prevented him from attempting it until the second morning. New Zealand A ended the day at 135 for three in reply to India As 113, holding a lead of 22 runs with Heaphy still at the crease. Auqib Nabi then swung the momentum briefly in the visitors favour, dismissing night watchman Jayden Lennox before removing Tim Robinson leg before wicket with the next delivery. The sequence left Nabi one wicket away from a hat-trick, but the close of play prevented him from attempting it until the second morning. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India A had a rough start to their two-match unofficial Test series against New Zealand A at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln. Multiple senior team cricketers, including KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan and...
IPL 2027 Mumbai Indians Team News: Kieron Pollard To Replace Mahela Jayawardene As MI Head Coach
Mumbai Indians have returned to an old acquaintance in their coaching set up as former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard has been appointed as head coach for the upcoming season of Indian Premier League (IPL). Pollard, who was the batting coach
Selectors Using Injury Excuse To Drop Shan Masood? Report Makes Big Claim
While Shan Masood is confident that he will recover in time for the series, beginning November 9, he remains concerned about retaining his place in the Test squad.
Blind Cricket Asia Cup: India Name 17-member Squad To Defend Title In Dhaka
ICC Blind Cricket World Cup: India have announced a 17-member squad for the second Mens Blind Cricket Asia Cup, scheduled to be held in Dhaka from November 15 to 20, as the defending champions prepare to retain their title after a decade-long gap in the tournament. The Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI) confirmed the squad following an intensive 10-day selection and coaching camp, which featured 24 prospects. The selected players will undergo a month-long preparatory camp in Delhi NCR before travelling to Bangladesh for the continental competition. The training programme will focus on batting, bowling, fielding, fitness, conditioning and match strategy. Players were assessed on their performances, fitness levels, technical skills and overall readiness during the selection process. Naresh Tumda, Sanjay Kumar Shah, Debaraj Behera, Ashok Reddy, Praveen Kumar Sharma and Mukesh Kumar Rawat have been selected in the B1 category. The B2 category includes Dunna Venkateshwararao, Rambir Singh, Lokesha, Manish Kumar and Nakula Badanayak, while Durga Rao Tompaki, Sunil Ramesh, Sukhram Majhi, A Ravi, Dinesh Rathva and Deepak complete the squad in the B3 category. Dr Mahantesh G. Kivadasannavar, chairman of CABI, congratulated the selected players and expressed confidence in their preparations. Congratulations to the 17 players selected to represent India at the Mens Blind Cricket Asia Cup 2026. Each has worked hard to earn a place in the national team. We look forward to seeing them build on Indias proud legacy as they prepare to defend the title. I wish the team every success, he said. India won the inaugural Blind T20 Asia Cup, hosted by CABI in Kochi in January 2016, defeating Pakistan by 44 runs in the final. The Indian team scored 208/5 before restricting Pakistan to 164, securing the maiden title. Congratulations to the 17 players selected to represent India at the Mens Blind Cricket Asia Cup 2026. Each has worked hard to earn a place in the national team. We look forward to seeing them build on Indias proud legacy as they prepare to defend the title. I wish the team every success, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Why is Ishan Kishan not playing in India's 2nd T20I vs New Zealand in Christchurch?
India and New Zealand take on each other in the second T20I of the ongoing series between them. The teams meet at Hagley Oval in Christchurch for the game, and both teams will look to...
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Included In India's Playing XI vs New Zealand But Gets New Batting Position
India captain Shreyas Iyer won the toss and opted to bowl first against New Zealand in the second T20I.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in as India choose to chase in Christchurch
Prince Yadav came in for Mayank Yadav, and New Zealand brought in Jacob Duffy for Adam Milne
That's What Wins You Games: Travis Head Urges Australia To Step Up As Unit
Australia batter Travis Head has called for a collective batting effort from his team after a series of individual performances failed to prevent two heavy defeats in their last four Tests, highlighting the need to build substantial partnerships and handle pressure better.
IND vs NZ second T20I: India opts to bowl against New Zealand
India made two changes, replacing injured Ishan Kishan with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi while Prince Yadav came in for Mayank Yadav
Dominant India women look to seal ODI series against Zimbabwe
A dominant India Women's team is set to face Zimbabwe in the second ODI in Vadodara, aiming to secure an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series after a comprehensive nine-wicket victory in the first match.
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I LIVE Score Updates: India skipper Shreyas Iyer won the toss and elected to bowl against New Zealand in the second T20I at Hagley Oval, Christchurch, on Saturday.
IND vs NZ 2nd T20I LIVE score: India look to extend lead against Black Caps in Christchurch
India and New Zealand are all set to take on each other in the second of five T20Is. The two teams meet at Hagley Oval in Christchurch for the clash, and both sides will look to put in a good showing in the clash. It is worth noting that the Indian team came out on top in the first T20I of the series, registering a brilliant victory in the clash, chasing down the target of 226 runs as the likes of Sanju Samson, Shreyas Iyer, and Naman Dhir put forth an excellent performance with the bat to chase down the target.
You Did Nothing Wrong: Du Plessis Recalls Standing By Steve Smith During Ball-tampering Scandal
Former South Africa: Former South Africa captain Faf du Plessis has recalled how Steve Smiths handling of the 2018 Cape Town ball-tampering controversy reminded him of his own experience two years earlier, prompting him to reach out to his Australian counterpart with a message of support during one of the most difficult periods of his career. Du Plessis said he empathised with Smith after the latter accepted responsibility for the incident during the Test series against South Africa, even as the controversy triggered widespread criticism. Steve came out at the end of the day (in Cape Town in 2018) saying: I take responsibility. And we were like: Why are you taking responsibility? You did nothing wrong, du Plessis recalled speaking to Cricinfo. Smith was subsequently banned for one Test by the ICC, while Cricket Australia imposed a 12-month suspension on him and David Warner, with Cameron Bancroft receiving a nine-month ban. The scandal erupted after Bancroft was caught attempting to alter the balls condition using sandpaper during the Cape Town Test. For du Plessis, the episode brought back memories of the controversy he faced in Hobart in 2016, when he was found guilty of changing the balls condition using saliva containing residue from a sweet. He said the backlash had escalated beyond what the South African team initially anticipated, making Smiths public support particularly meaningful. At the time, in our dressing room, honestly, we thought nothing has happened badly, du Plessis said. But cameras [were] everywhere. And it just got built up into this thing now. All of a sudden, I was in real trouble. It was going around the world, people saying, Cheating. That weighs heavy on you, he said. Du Plessis revealed that he contacted Smith after the Cape Town incident, recognising the pressure his former rival was facing. He admitted, however, that he had underestimated how long the consequences would follow the Australian. I remember sending a message and saying: Listen, Im so sorry you are going through this. Just be strong. Its going to be a hell for a week or so and then it will probably blow over. Never knowing that it was going to be a year for him to go through. But just saying were behind you. We understand you did nothing wrong. So if you need anything from us, were here, the former Proteas skipper said. The former South African skipper also remembered Smith defending him publicly during the 2016 controversy, despite Australia trailing 0-2 in the Test series after the Adelaide match. Du Plessis said Smith could easily have capitalised on the situation but instead chose to speak in his defence. He was asked: What are your thoughts on Faf du Plessis and Mintgate, and its terrible, hes cheating. And hes like, no, hes not. Hes just shining the ball. Ive been in many teams where we shine the ball, we use different sweets, du Plessis stated. Recalling the reaction within the South African dressing room, du Plessis said Smiths intervention earned him considerable respect from the team. He was asked: What are your thoughts on Faf du Plessis and Mintgate, and its terrible, hes cheating. And hes like, no, hes not. Hes just shining the ball. Ive been in many teams where we shine the ball, we use different sweets, du Plessis stated. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Five Batters Out For Duck: India A's Horrific Show In Unofficial Test vs New Zealand A
India A were bundled out within 40 overs for just 113 runs on Day 1 of the first unofficial Test match against New Zealand A at Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Lincoln on Saturday.
India and New Zealand are all set to take on each other in the second T20I of the ongoing series between the two sides. The teams are slated to meet at Hagley Oval in Christchurch...
No Expectations, Just Keep Doing Your Work: Bhuvneshwar On India Comeback
New Zealand T20I: India pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar said having no expectations from himself and focusing on the work at hand helped him navigate his four-year absence from international cricket, adding that his preparation never suffered despite being away from the national team. Bhuvneshwar returned to the national setup after a four-year absence earlier this month when he was called up for the fifth T20I against the West Indies in Bengaluru as a replacement for injured Arshdeep Singh. However, the match got abandoned due to rain. He finally got to bowl in the 1st T20I against New Zealand. Speaking in a video shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the experienced pacer said the key to his approach over the last three to four years had been staying in the present rather than worrying about the future. The headspace I am in is very simple. I have no expectations of myself. I think thats how things worked out for me in the last 3-4 years. No expectations; just keep doing your work. Generally, we talk about being present; we dont think about the future. I think thats the headspace I am in right now. And that has happened in the last 3-4 years, he said. The 36-year-old said his time away from international cricket had brought maturity and that he had not spent the period actively chasing a comeback. I know I didnt play for the country. But the things I did and the maturity that came in me as a person. I think thats what he taught me: just be in the present, he said. Four years, I never chased this Indian jersey. So honestly, I didnt even know when those four years would come. I think it evolved big time, and I think IPL has a big role in that. The pacer credited the Indian Premier League (IPL) and domestic cricket for keeping him connected to the game during his international absence. He said he had continued to prepare thoroughly for matches despite not knowing whether another India opportunity would come his way. The last two IPLs were like when I went to IPL; there were zero expectations. I had zero expectations from myself either. But it wasnt like I didnt prepare. I did all the preparation needed to prepare. From fitness to skills and mental aspects, I did all that. But yes, there was zero expectation as to what I would do, he said. Of course, I had to contribute for the team. But I never thought that I would go to IPL like this. That I would get two IPL titles in two years. Bhuvneshwar believes the IPL has also helped him understand the changing demands of T20 cricket, in which batters have become more aggressive and high scores are increasingly common. I know there is an impact player. But that impact player has opened up the batsmans mindset a lot. They go after the ball from the first ball, he said. But I have always believed that we take bowlers as victims. But they are not. I think being a bowler, you can control the game. You can want them to hit where we want. So I think its just a perspective. What we have to do is being a bowler, he added. He added that the game had changed significantly in recent years, not just in franchise cricket but also at the international level. 100%. The game has evolved a lot in the last four years. Not just league cricket. Even international cricket. The way the score is being made. 200 is just a sparse score. When it becomes 200, I think there is something. But yes, it evolved big time, he said. The experienced pacer also highlighted the challenges of playing overseas, particularly in SENA countries, where conditions can be difficult for both batters and bowlers. No, its not a big deal. Because we are a young group. We have been playing for many years. But everyone else is young, he said. When you come on an away tour, its tough. The conditions are different. Generally, we come with expectations. That maybe we will get something from a fast bowler. But for the last four to five years, the way we have been seeing the white ball format, even on Mondays. There is not much support for bowlers, he added. He said conversations among bowlers generally centred on assessing conditions and identifying the best way to execute their plans. Whenever we talk, we talk about very basic things. What are the conditions? What can we do? But what I have realised is that T20 has become such a format where you need a lot of maturity as a bowler, he said. Bhuvneshwar added that winning overseas tournaments brings a special sense of satisfaction and could help build confidence across formats. Whenever we come on a tour, the biggest mindset is to win there. Especially when we come to SENA countries. Its not easy. Whether you are a bowler or a batsman, there are some challenges. And winning in such countries gives you a lot of satisfaction. That you came there, performed, contributed and won the tournament, he said. Reflecting on Indias opening win in the New Zealand T20I series, he said a successful start could have a positive impact on the teams confidence for the remainder of the tour. Whenever we come on a tour, the biggest mindset is to win there. Especially when we come to SENA countries. Its not easy. Whether you are a bowler or a batsman, there are some challenges. And winning in such countries gives you a lot of satisfaction. That you came there, performed, contributed and won the tournament, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Mumbai Indians name Kieron Pollard as head coach ahead of IPL 2027
In a major development, five-time IPL (Indian Premier League) champions Mumbai Indians took centre stage and announced former West Indies international cricketer Kieron Pollard as their new head coach ahead of the upcoming IPL 2027 season.
Kieron Pollard appointed as head coach for Mumbai Indians
Pollard replaces Mahela Jayawardene, whose two-season second stint ended with a disappointing IPL 2026 campaign for the team
Delhi Capitals unveil Yuvraj as assistant and batting coach
Yuvraj will work with head coach Ganguly at Delhi Capitals
When You Know Youre Middling The Ball Well, Batting Becomes Very Easy: Pratika Rawal
Pratika Rawal: India opener Pratika Rawal credited her preparation and confidence at the crease for her unbeaten century against Zimbabwe in the first ODI at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, on Friday, as the reigning 50-over World Cup champions registered a nine-wicket victory in the three-match series opener. Rawal struck 100 not out off 96 deliveries, sharing an opening stand with Smriti Mandhana before finishing the chase alongside Shafali Verma. Reflecting on her rhythm with the bat, the opener said feeling in control of her strokes helped her avoid unnecessary pressure. As a batter when you tap that bat, you feel confidence. Every day, obviously, is different but when you know that youre middling the ball well, your balls are going into those gaps, youre hitting the shots where you want to hit, so it becomes actually easier because youre not very clustered in your mind. You dont have multiple thoughts in your mind, so it becomes very easy when youre batting in that sense. It was one of those days and Im really happy that it came through really well, Pratika said in a BCCI video. The century also brought back memories of Rawals first ODI hundred, a milestone she had not realised coincided with the days match until coach Amol Muzumdar pointed it out before the innings. Mandhana then encouraged her to recreate the feat. I had no idea to be very honest that this was the day when I scored my first ODI 100. But we were sitting before going into bat and there was this match coming on TV which was New Zealand against India, and I was asking Amol sir, this was around that time onlyand then he said this is the exact day when you scored a 100, and then Smriti di said, Chalo aaj bhi karte hain phirlets just recreate it; its the exact same number of runsthe kind of partnership that we had that day. So its good memories, World Cup memoriesits always good to be back in that groove, she stated. Rawal also pointed to the conditions and her recent work in practice as factors behind her fluent knock, explaining that a clear plan helped her remain aggressive without becoming preoccupied with the scoring rate. Luckily, the wicket was in our favour. It was a flat track, the ball wasnt doing much, plus the kind of field placement that they had put helped us a lot. Also, I think when youre batting well in the nets, when you have prepared well in your practise sessions, you feel that kind of confidence, you feel that kind of stability in your mind that it doesnt take a lot from you in terms of being stressed out, where I have to hit, Oh the runs are not coming. So its basically how you prepare, and I wanted to play in that manner.I wanted to score a lot of boundaries; I wanted to go about it because this is something that Ive worked on recently, so Im really happy that it all turned out well, she added. The opener also praised spinner Sree Charani, who claimed four wickets to help restrict Zimbabwe to 197, highlighting her ability to make breakthroughs even when the pitch offered little assistance. Luckily, the wicket was in our favour. It was a flat track, the ball wasnt doing much, plus the kind of field placement that they had put helped us a lot. Also, I think when youre batting well in the nets, when you have prepared well in your practise sessions, you feel that kind of confidence, you feel that kind of stability in your mind that it doesnt take a lot from you in terms of being stressed out, where I have to hit, Oh the runs are not coming. So its basically how you prepare, and I wanted to play in that manner.I wanted to score a lot of boundaries; I wanted to go about it because this is something that Ive worked on recently, so Im really happy that it all turned out well, she added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India vs New Zealand 2nd T20I LIVE TV Channel, Venue, Teams, Pitch Report, Other Details
India will look to continue their winning run when they face New Zealand in the second T20I at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on October 24. The visitors secured a thrilling victory in the series opener and will aim to extend their
Kieron Pollard appointed Mumbai Indians head coach for IPL 2027 season
The News Mill
Mumbai Indians Appoint New Head Coach Days After Mahela Jayawardene Steps Down
Kieron Pollard has been promoted to the position of head coach for Mumbai Indians after serving as the batting coach of the side.
Kieron Pollard Promoted To Mumbai Indians Head Coach
Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians have appointed former West Indies all-rounder Kieron Pollard as their head coach, marking a new chapter in his 16-year association with the five-time Indian Premier League (IPL) champions. The franchise announced the elevation on Saturday, October 24, entrusting Pollard with the responsibility of leading the team after he served as its batting coach in recent years. Pollard joined Mumbai Indians at the age of 22 and became a key figure in the franchises most successful period as a player. His transition into coaching has kept him closely involved with the team, giving him an understanding of its culture, personnel and approach to T20 cricket. A prominent figure in the evolution of franchise-based T20 cricket, Pollard brings extensive experience of the formats tactical demands and changing competitive landscape. His time as both a player and batting coach is expected to inform his approach as he takes charge of the team. Reacting to his appointment, Pollard described the role as a significant milestone in his long association with Mumbai Indians and expressed his gratitude to the franchises leadership for placing their trust in him. It is an honour to take on the role of Head Coach of Mumbai Indians. MI has been a huge part of my life and career, and the bond I share with this team, the players and the Paltan means a great deal to me. Having experienced this journey as a player and then as a coach, I understand what Mumbai Indians stands for and the responsibility that comes with representing the Blue and Gold. I am grateful to Mrs. Nita Ambani, Akash Ambani and the entire MI family for their trust in me. I look forward to working closely with the players and support staff, building on the teams legacy, helping our talent grow and giving the Paltan many more reasons to celebrate, Pollard said. Mumbai Indians co-owner Nita M. Ambani welcomed the appointment, highlighting Pollards longstanding contribution to the franchise and his familiarity with the expectations associated with representing the team. Pollard joined Mumbai Indians as a young 22-year-old and, over the past sixteen years, has become an integral part of our family. As a player, he gave us many unforgettable moments, and as a coach, he has continued to share his experience, passion and deep understanding of the game. We are delighted to see him take on this new responsibility as Head Coach. Polly knows what it means to wear the MI jersey and what it takes to play for the Paltan. I am confident that he will bring the same commitment, belief and determination to this role. I wish him every success as he leads the team into its next chapter, she said. Mumbai Indians co-owner Nita M. Ambani welcomed the appointment, highlighting Pollards longstanding contribution to the franchise and his familiarity with the expectations associated with representing the team. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Mumbai Indians appoint Kieron Pollard as head coach for IPL 2027
Mumbai Indians have appointed Kieron Pollard as head coach for IPL 2027 after Mahela Jayawardene stepped down, ending his decade-long association with the franchise. Co-owner Nita M. Ambani said Pollard, who joined MI as a 22-year-old 16 years ago, understands the teams culture and brings deep experience, passion and commitment to the role.
India vs New Zealand Live Streaming, 2nd T20I Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch
Shreyas Iyer and Co. are 1-0 up in the five-match series after winning the first game by four wickets.
India vs New Zealand Free Live Telecast, 2nd T20I Live Streaming: When And Where To Watch
Here is how the fans in India could watch the India vs New Zealand second T20I for free.
Shreyas Iyer on the verge of breaking Rohit Sharma's elite record ahead of second NZ T20I
The stage is set for the second T20I of the ongoing multi-format series between India and New Zealand. The two sides will meet at Hagley Oval in Christchurch for the clash on October 24th. It...
Rahul, Sudharsan fall for ducks; India A 113 all out vs NZ A
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Mohsin Naqvi's PCB Set To Launch Pakistan's Own Hong Kong Sixes Style Tournament
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Travis Head hopes under-fire Australia find 'that collective batting day'
Australia have lost two of their last four Tests, by crushing margins at that, and the lack of partnerships - or more than one batter standing tall at any given time - has hurt them the most
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi To Play 2nd T20I Against New Zealand? India's Batting Coach Drops Big Hint
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made his T20I debut in early July following an impressive Player-of-the-Tournament performance in IPL 2026, but has featured in only seven of India's 19 matches since then.
Dinesh Karthik Spots Worrying Sign In Bhuvneshwar Kumar's India Return
Bhuvneshwar Kumar's comeback match was far from ideal, as he endured an expensive outing. In his four-over spell, the 36-year-old conceded 49 runs without taking a wicket.
Faf du Plessis to Steven Smith: 'You did nothing wrong, just be strong'
The Sandpapergate series was acrimonious, but the two captains had empathy for each other
Naman Dhir remained unbeaten on 42 off just 15 deliveries, smashing five fours and two sixes. At one stage, India found themselves in a precarious position as the chase threatened to slip away. However, Dhir kept his composure under pressure and sealed the victory in style with a six.
India vs New Zealand, 2nd T20I Pitch Report, how will surface in Christchurch play?
India and New Zealand are all set to continue their ongoing series against each other. The two sides are slated to meet each other in the second T20I of the series at the Hagley Oval...
Sanju Samson stressed the importance of staying focused on his game and trusting his process amid the scrutiny and opinions that come with representing India.
Irfan Pathan came out in support of head coach Gautam Gambhir after Ishan Kishan batted lower down the order in the first T20I, revealing that the wicketkeeper-batter had a niggle
Gautam Gambhir Urged To Make Big Playing XI Call Amid India's Bowling Concerns
India's bowling woes have been a headache for head coach Gautam Gambhir, who has been forced to chop and change the lineup more often than not.
Pratika Rawal struck an unbeaten century and India's bowlers delivered a disciplined performance as the hosts defeated Zimbabwe by nine wickets in the firstODI at Kotambi Stadium in Vadodara. India completed the chase of 198...
Ishan Kishan Ruled Out Of 2nd India vs New Zealand T20I, BCCI Names 'Cover' For Star
Uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Kumar Kushagra was on Friday added to the Indian squad for the second T20I against New Zealand as cover for the injured Ishan Kishan
'Don't know what he was thinking' - Harmer's surprise at Labuschagne's shot
Australia's No. 3 tried to take on the wind and failed to heap further pressure on his position
1st ODI: Pratika And Shafalis Chase Was A Masterclass, Says Smriti After India's Win
Smriti Mandhana: India captain Smriti Mandhana praised Pratika Rawal and Shafali Verma for their commanding batting performances, describing their match-winning partnership as a masterclass after the World Champions registered a nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe in the first ODI of the three-match series at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, on Friday. Rawal struck an unbeaten 100 off 96 balls, while Shafali remained not out on 64 off just 34 deliveries as India chased down Zimbabwes target of 198 in 27.1 overs to take a 1-0 lead in the series. Praising the duos approach during the chase, Mandhana said their performance was a standout feature of Indias dominant outing. Yes, we can tidy up our fielding; a few catches went down our way, but otherwise, again Shafali and Pratika went about that chase, and it was a masterclass, Mandhana said after the match. Rawal anchored the chase with an assured unbeaten century, striking 15 boundaries, while Shafali provided the aggression with five fours and four sixes. The pair ensured India maintained control after Mandhanas dismissal for 32 off 34 balls, reaching the target with nine wickets in hand. Earlier, Indias bowlers restricted Zimbabwe to 197 in 49.5 overs, with spinner Shree Charani leading the attack with figures of four for 23. Kranti Gaud picked up three wickets, while vice-captain Deepti Sharma claimed two and Shafali took one. Mandhana lauded the bowling unit for adapting well to a different venue, singling out Charani and also praising the discipline shown by the pace bowlers. Coming into a different ground, I think the bowlers adapted really well, especially Shree Charani, I think the standout bowler for us. Also the pacers, the way they bowled, Kranthi to mention, out of all the bowlers, they were pretty disciplined, she said. Despite the comprehensive win, the India captain acknowledged that her side could have maintained greater intensity in the field during certain phases of Zimbabwes innings. India have largely played T20 cricket over the past seven months, and Mandhana said the transition back to the 50-over format required some adjustment. Well, we are playing fifty overs after a very long time. We have played T20 cricket for almost the last seven months, so definitely in the period between 20 and 35, I would say, we could have had more intensity on the field. That is something which we will take back from a game and work on, she said. Mandhana also highlighted communication as a key factor in maintaining consistency in the bowling attack, particularly with players moving between the T20 and ODI sides. She credited the support staff, especially bowling coach Aavishkar Salvi, for helping the bowlers understand their roles and keeping the plans clear. Again, its communication. You need to be absolutely clear with them. When they came in as well, we had a lot of communication, especially again the T20 side from the one-day side; we had two days, she said. Good communication, knowing about, again, support staff, Aavishkar (Salvi) sir, not to mention, hes always with the bowlers, coordinates with them, then gets back to me with the plans. So hes really on it and makes my job easy, she added. Looking ahead to the second ODI, Mandhana said the team would welcome some time to relax after returning to the longer format while also using the opportunity to build stronger connections among players, including those who have recently joined the squad. Hopefully a relaxed, chill day would be good because we have all played one-day cricket after a very long time. So yeah, we will hang out with each other, trying to get to know more about the players, because we have a lot of new players coming in and a lot of energy, especially Jintimani. I mean, shes just a ball of energy around the team, she said. Looking ahead to the second ODI, Mandhana said the team would welcome some time to relax after returning to the longer format while also using the opportunity to build stronger connections among players, including those who have recently joined the squad. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Pratika Rawal Hits Century As India Beat Zimbabwe By Nine Wickets In 1st ODI
Pratika Rawal slammed her third 50-overs century after Shree Charani recorded career-best figures of 4/23 as India thrashed Zimbabwe by nine wickets in the opening women's ODI of their three-match...
Harmer: SA realise Australia batters are human and can be put under pressure
Spinners back SA to adapt to whatever Cape Town throws at them in the series decider
Kumar Kushagra replaces Ishan Kishan in India squad for 2nd T20I vs NZ - Why BCCI made late change?
India have added keeper-batter Kumar Kushagra for the second T20I against New Zealand. He replaced Ishan Kishan, who was ruled out with a right adductor strain, as BCCI confirmed in an earlier statement. Meanwhile, Kushagra is...
Women's T20 World Cup: Home Turf for Pakistan, UAE Detour for India?
Pakistan is set to host the 2028 Women's T20 World Cup, with plans to use a hybrid model where matches involving India will be played in the United Arab Emirates. The ICC announced the tournament dates, and the Pakistan Cricket Board aims to host all other games, including knockout stages not featuring India, potentially boosting women's cricket in the country.
Kumar Kushagra Added As Cover After Ishan Kishan Ruled Out Of Second T20I (Ld)
Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia: The Mens Selection Committee has added Kumar Kushagra to the squad for the second T20I against New Zealand as cover for India wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan, who has been ruled out due to a low-grade right adductor strain, the BCCI said on Friday. Kushagra, who is currently in Christchurch with the India A squad, will join the India squad for the second T20I, BCCI's Honorary Secretary Devajit Saikia informed in a release. The BCCI Medical Team will continue to monitor Ishan Kishans progress. Ishan sustained the injury during the first T20I of the series, which India won by four wickets in Christchurch. Ishan Kishan is ruled out of the second T20I against New Zealand due to a low-grade right adductor strain, which he sustained during the first T20I of the series. The BCCI Medical Team is monitoring his progress, the BCCI said in a statement. In the series opener, Ishan was seen batting at No. 5 with Tilak Varma coming at No. 3. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, while addressing batting order changes, said that the wicketkeeper-batter was dealing with a groin injury. Ishan's absence in the second T20I may open the door for teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to get a place in the playing 11. There was a lot of speculation I have also seen; just because Ishan had a strain in his groin, the batting order was changed, Kotak told reporters. If Ishan doesnt play, unless he recovers completely, which the medical team will advise, Vaibhav (Sooryavanshi) could definitely step in for him. He is one of the strongest contenders, he added. In the series opener, Ishan was seen batting at No. 5 with Tilak Varma coming at No. 3. Batting coach Sitanshu Kotak, while addressing batting order changes, said that the wicketkeeper-batter was dealing with a groin injury. Ishan's absence in the second T20I may open the door for teenage batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to get a place in the playing 11. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Kushagra Replaces Injured Kishan In India T20I Squad
Uncapped wicketkeeper-batter Kumar Kushagra has been added to the Indian squad for the second T20I against New Zealand as a cover for Ishan Kishan, who sustained a low-grade right adductor strain and is ruled out of the upcoming match. Kushagra, currently with the India A squad, will join the main team.
Pratikas unbeaten century makes it a walk in the park for India
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1st ODI: We Were Around 100 Runs Short, Says Zimbabwe Skipper Sibanda
Wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh: Zimbabwe stand in captain Nomvelo Sibanda admitted that her side fell around 100 runs short of a competitive total and rued missed fielding opportunities after the visitors suffered a nine-wicket defeat against world champions India in the first ODI of the three-match series at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi here on Friday. Zimbabwe were bowled out for 197 in 49.5 overs after being put into bat, with Beloved Biza top-scoring with 62 off 92 balls. In reply, India chased down the target in just 27.1 overs, with Pratika Rawal scoring an unbeaten 100 and Shafali Verma smashing 64 not out off 34 deliveries. Reflecting on Zimbabwes performance, Sibanda said the team had fallen short with both the bat and in the field, with dropped catches adding to their difficulties against a dominant Indian batting line-up. We did not play as well as we wanted. We were like 100 runs short, and then in some of our fielding as well, we did not complement our bowlers enough. Those chances that we put down, Sibanda said after the match. Zimbabwe made an early breakthrough when Kranti Gaud dismissed opener Loryn Phiri in the third over, but missed opportunities in the field allowed India to maintain control during the visitors innings. Wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh dropped a catch off Chipo Mugeri-Tiripano, while vice-captain Deepti Sharma also missed an opportunity in the slips. Bizas fighting half-century and Michelle Mavungas 29 off 23 balls helped Zimbabwe reach 197, but the total proved insufficient against Indias aggressive approach. Sibanda acknowledged that the Indian batters put the Zimbabwe bowlers under pressure and said her team needed greater consistency in its line and length to contain them. I thought they played aggressive. Obviously, we didnt bowl that good length consistently, but I thought the spinners pulled it back nicely, she said. Indias opening pair of Rawal and Smriti Mandhana made a brisk start, putting on 83 runs before Mandhana fell for 32 off 34 balls. Rawal then combined with Shafali to take the game away from Zimbabwe, with the latter bringing up her half-century off just 29 deliveries. Rawal completed her fourth ODI half-century before going on to score her century off 96 balls, while Shafalis explosive innings ensured India completed the chase with nine wickets in hand. Sibanda also pointed to the pitch conditions as a factor that made it difficult for Zimbabwe to defend their total, stressing the importance of hitting the right areas consistently. Obviously the pitch is a bit flatter, so as bowlers we have to hustle and hit that good length, she said. Despite the defeat, the Zimbabwe captain expressed appreciation for the support the team received from its fans during the contest. Obviously the pitch is a bit flatter, so as bowlers we have to hustle and hit that good length, she said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be fully supported to feature in the 2027 Men's ODI World Cup, as the two greats have earned the right to decide when to call time on their illustrious playing careers, said former New Zealand assistant coach James Pamment
1st ODI: Rawals Ton, Shafalis 64 Power India To Nine-wicket Win Over Zimbabwe
World Champions India: Pratika Rawal struck an unbeaten century while Shafali Verma smashed a blistering 64 not out as World Champions India cruised to a nine-wicket victory over Zimbabwe, chasing down a target of 198 in just 27.1 overs in the first ODI of the three-match series at the BCA Stadium in Kotambi in Vadodara on Friday. Rawal remained unbeaten on 100 off 96 balls, hitting 15 boundaries, while Shafali provided the fireworks with an unbeaten 64 off just 34 deliveries, including five fours and four sixes. The emphatic victory came after Indias bowlers, led by Shree Charanis four-wicket haul, restricted Zimbabwe to 197 in 49.5 overs despite a fighting half-century from Beloved Biza. Chasing 198, India made a flying start as Rawal struck two boundaries in the opening over to put the Zimbabwe bowlers under immediate pressure. The opener continued her aggressive approach, finding two more boundaries across the next two overs while rotating the strike effectively. Captain Smriti Mandhana joined the assault in the fifth over, hammering consecutive fours off Michelle Mavunga as the Indian openers took advantage of the fielding restrictions. Rawal was particularly proactive during the Powerplay, combining crisp strokeplay with effective running between the wickets. The opening pair dominated the Zimbabwe attack, taking India to 72 without loss after 10 overs, with Rawal contributing 42 runs during that period. India needed just 126 more runs to secure victory. With the fielding restrictions lifted, Rawal and Mandhana initially adapted a more measured approach, looking to keep the scoreboard moving through singles and twos. Rawal received a reprieve in the 13th over when Loryn Phiri dropped her at deep mid-wicket. The opener capitalised on the opportunity, completing her fourth ODI half-century off 54 balls. Another boundary in the 15th over helped India move to 93 without loss as the opening partnership continued to put Zimbabwe on the back foot. Zimbabwe finally broke through in the 16th over when Mandhana attempted to attack a delivery outside the off stump but was dismissed. The Indian captain scored 32 off 34 balls, ending the opening partnership after a strong start. However, the dismissal did little to slow Indias progress, as Shafali joined Rawal in the middle and immediately made her intentions clear with a boundary off her third delivery. The two batters maintained a scoring rate of around eight runs per over, putting the visitors under mounting pressure. Rawal continued to anchor the chase with assured strokeplay, while Shafali attacked the bowlers with her trademark aggression. India reached 166/1 at the halfway stage of the innings, leaving Zimbabwe with little room to stage a comeback. Shafali accelerated further in the 26th over, taking the bowlers apart and bringing up her half-century off just 29 balls with consecutive sixes as India moved within touching distance of the target. Rawal, who had been in control from the beginning, reached her century off 96 deliveries in the 27th over to cap a dominant individual performance. Shafali then completed the chase in style, striking a boundary off the first ball of the 28th over. She remained unbeaten on 64 off 34 balls, with five fours and four sixes, as India finished at 198/2 in 27.1 overs. Olinder Chare was the only Zimbabwe bowler to take a wicket, finishing with figures of 1/58. Earlier, India produced a disciplined bowling performance to dismiss Zimbabwe for 197 in 49.5 overs after the visitors won the toss and elected to bat. Zimbabwe suffered an early setback when opener Loryn Phiri was caught and bowled by Kranti Gaud in the third over. Mugeri-Tiripano and Modester Mupachikwa attempted to rebuild the innings, rotating the strike and capitalising on loose deliveries. Zimbabwe reached 46/1 at the end of the powerplay. After the fielding restrictions were lifted, Captain Mandhana introduced Charani, who trapped Mugeri-Tiripano's leg before the wicket for 21 off 27 balls. The spinner struck again in the 15th over, dismissing Mupachikwa, who mistimed a lofted shot and was caught by Gaud for 25 off 44 deliveries. Deepti added to Zimbabwes troubles in the 18th over by dismissing newly appointed vice-captain Sharne Mayers. Attempting to play an aerial shot against a tossed-up delivery, Mayers failed to clear the infield and departed for eight off 12 balls. Zimbabwe was in need of a substantial partnership when Biza and Nyasha Gwanzura came together. The duo rotated the strike effectively and found boundaries at regular intervals to rebuild the innings, taking the visitors past the 100-run mark in the 26th over. Charani broke the partnership in the first over of her third spell, taking a return catch to dismiss Gwanzura for 13 off 28 balls. Biza continued to hold the innings together and found support in Chiedza Dhururu. The pair attempted to revive Zimbabwes scoring rate, with Biza reaching her half-century in the 35th over off 64 balls. India struck again when Gaud bowled Dhururu for 10 off 23 deliveries, leaving Zimbabwe searching for another partnership. Mavunga, batting at No. 8, provided some late impetus with an aggressive innings. Her boundaries helped Zimbabwe cross the 160-run mark in the 39th over, but Charani ended her resistance in the 43rd over to complete her four-wicket haul. Mavunga scored 29 off 23 balls. Biza remained the visitors top scorer, but her fighting innings ended when Gaud dismissed her, with Mandhana taking a good catch. Biza made 62 off 92 balls, striking four boundaries. Deepti wrapped up the innings by bowling Tendai Makusha off the penultimate ball as Zimbabwe were dismissed for 197 in 49.5 overs. Brief scores: Deepti wrapped up the innings by bowling Tendai Makusha off the penultimate ball as Zimbabwe were dismissed for 197 in 49.5 overs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Rawal century, Shree Charani four-for hand India comfortable win
Shafali Verma and Kranti Gaud also made useful contributions as India galloped to victory
Will Vaibhav Sooryavanshi play 2nd T20I vs New Zealand after Ishan Kishan ruled out?
India keeper-batter Ishan Kishan has been ruled out of the second T20I against New Zealand at the Hagley Oval in Christchurch. BCCI has already confirmed the development, stating that the cricketer suffered a low-grade right adductor strain. As of now, Kishan is out of the second T20I and it could very well open the door for the 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi to return to the playing XI.
Wait Before Passing Judgment - Pathan Defends Gambhir After Kishan Ruled Out Due To Groin Strain
Captain Shreyas Iyer: Former India left-arm pacer Irfan Pathan on Friday came out in support of head coach Gautam Gambhir, saying the criticism over Ishan Kishan batting lower down the order in the first T20I against New Zealand at the Hagley Oval was unfair as the wicketkeeper-batter had been nursing a niggle, which later turned out to be a groin strain. The strain forced India to rejig their batting order in the series opener, with Tilak Varma promoted to number three, Kishan's usual position. Kishan came in at number five and lasted only three balls before falling for just 1 when he was caught on the leg-side boundary off New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner. Pathan took to social media to urge fans and critics to hold off on passing judgment without knowing the full facts. So, Ishan Kishan had a niggle during the first T20, which is why he batted lower down the order. But everyone was quick to go after @GautamGambhir for changing the batting order. Criticising him has become everyone's favourite timepass these days. Please, please wait a bit before passing judgment. Don't jump to conclusions without knowing the full story. And this applies to everything in life. In the rush to get 'views' and 'numbers' on social media, you might end up hurting someone without even knowing the full story. Think before you judge, wrote Pathan in a note on his X account on Friday. Later, the BCCI said on Friday that Kishan has been ruled out of the second T20I, to be played in Christchurch on Saturday, with a right adductor strain picked during the first T20I. India won the series opener by four wickets after chasing down a record 226 with two balls to spare. Sanju Samson set up the chase with a 33-ball 67, while sharing a 93-run opening stand inside the Powerplay with Abhishek Sharma. Captain Shreyas Iyer added 42 off 28 balls, and Naman Dhir hit an unbeaten 42 off 15 deliveries. With Kishan unavailable for the second game, teenaged opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi is the frontrunner to take his place in the playing eleven. Later, the BCCI said on Friday that Kishan has been ruled out of the second T20I, to be played in Christchurch on Saturday, with a right adductor strain picked during the first T20I. India won the series opener by four wickets after chasing down a record 226 with two balls to spare. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
After Yusuf Pathan, Land Sought For Indian Spinner Radha Yadav In Vadodara For Cricket Academy
Days after the Gujarat government proposed to hand over a civic plot to former cricketer Yusuf Pathan, a former Vadodara corporator has sought land for Indian spinner Radha Yadav to set up a cricket academy
Sarfaraz Khan's last Ranji Trophy score reads 154 (against Himachal Pradesh). In 96 first-class innings, Sarfaraz has scored 18 centuries. His first-class average is a mind-boggling 70.67
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Ex-Skipper Masood's place in Pakistan Test squad Under Threat?
Former Pakistan captain Shan Masood is racing against time to recover from a calf muscle injury ahead of the two-Test series against Sri Lanka. His place in the playing XI is uncertain, especially with selectors and coach Mike Hesson looking to introduce younger players into the Test squad for the next World Test Championship cycle. Masood, who had an unsuccessful run as Test captain, fears his injury might be used as a reason to sideline him.
Charani Spins a Web as Zimbabwe Fold for 197 in ODI Series Opener
Shree Charani delivered a career-best performance, taking 4/23 to restrict Zimbabwe to 197 all-out in the first women's ODI against India. Despite Beloved Biza's resilient 62, Zimbabwe struggled against Charani and Kranti Gaud's bowling. India's fielding, however, was marred by several dropped catches.
'No hate, just testosterone': Rabada on Steve Smith rivalry
Kagiso Rabada and Steve Smith's intense rivalry has reignited as South Africa and Australia head into a decisive third Test in Cape Town. Rabada's recent dismissal of Smith in the second Test, coupled with their history from the 2018 series marked by controversy, sets the stage for a thrilling encounter. Both players acknowledge the competitive spirit, with Smith reflecting on his past ban.
India Batter S Meghana Hangs Up Her Boots at 30
Indian top-order batter S Meghana has announced her retirement from all forms of cricket at the age of 30, expressing gratitude for her career and her intention to remain involved in the sport through mentoring.
NZ vs IND: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of 2nd T20I, New Zealand vs India series 2026
NZ vs IND 2nd T20I , Approaching Milestones and Records :The Indian Cricket Team and the New Zealand Cricket Team produced a high-scoring encounter in the first game of the five-match T20I series at Hagley Oval. New Zealand posted their joint-highest T20I total against India of 225, while Team India recorded their highest successful chase in T20I and made 230 runs in 19.4 overs. There were plenty of records that were broken in the first match with the bat. It was a tough place to bowl for the bowlers. These two teams will now face each other in the second T20I on Saturday at Hagley Oval at 12:30 PM IST. Team India will miss Ishan Kishan, who has been ruled out of the second game after a groin strain. Vaibhav Suryavanshi is expected to replace him for the second game. Team India will be looking to win the second game and take a 2-0 lead in the series. Both teams have strong batting lineups, and it is likely to be another tough game for the bowlers. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the NZ vs IND 2nd T20Iat Hagley Oval, Christchurch. NZ vs IND: Approaching Test Records and Cricket Milestones Ahead of the IND vs WI 5th T20I at Hagley Oval, Christchurch 4 - Abhishek Sharma hit a six of his first ball and took his tally to 146 T20I sixes. He is just four sixes away from becoming only the third Indian after Rohit Sharma (205) and Suryakumar Yadav (179) to reach 150 T20I sixes. Abhishek will also become the fastest batter to achieve this feat among the FM teams. 7 - Tilak Varma is seven sixes away from reaching 100 T20I sixes. 2 more sixes, and he will reach 250 T20 sixes. 93 - Daryl Mitchell is 93 runs away from reaching 2000 runs in T20I cricket. 4 - Arshdeep Singh needs four more wickets to become the first Indian with 150 T20I wickets. He will also become the fastest pacer to achieve this landmark. 2 - Kuldeep Yadav is just two wickets away from reaching 100 T20I wickets. 6 - Mitch Santner needs six wickets more to complete 150 T20I wickets. 34 - Abhishek needs 34 runs to complete 6500 T20 runs. 4 - Glenn Phillips needs four sixes more to complete 400 sixes in T20 cricket. 5 - Finn Allen is five sixes away from reaching 400 T20 sixes. 2 - Axar Patel is two wickets away from reaching 300 wickets in T20 cricket. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 2 - Jacob Duffy needs two more wickets to complete 200 wickets in T20 cricket.
'We Played West Indies As Friends': Abhishek Sharma's Huge Warning To India Amid New Zealand T20Is
Abhishek Sharma said that the team made a few mistakes in their 2-2 draw against West Indies at home and played them as if they were their friends.
ICC World Test Championship: How The Teams Stack Up
As the cycle enters a crucial phase, the teams now look to strengthen their case for a top-two finish.
NAM vs IRE 2nd ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs
NAM vs IRE 2nd ODI, Cricket Tips: The first ODI between Ireland and Namibia was a low-scoring thriller where Ireland successfully defended 229 runs. In fact, they bowled so well and bowled out Namibia for a score of 174 runs, winning by 55 runs. Gavin Hoey bowled superbly for his 3/29, and Jai Moondra and George Dockreel took two wickets each. Ireland will look to take the momentum forward in the second game. The second match will start at 1 PM IST on Saturday at Namibia Cricket Ground. Namibia need to find contributions from their batters, which was a big issue in the first game. NAM vs IRE: Match Details Date : October 24, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 1:00 PM IST Venue : Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek NAM vs IRE: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the NAM vs IRE game on the FanCode app or website. NAM vs IRE: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches : 01 Namibia : 00 Ireland : 01 No-result : 0 NAM vs IRE: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Windhoek is a little patchy, which will have seam and swing movement for the fast bowlers. Seamers will get good bounce, and as the game goes on, the conditions will become tough for batting. Early on the conditions for batting will be better. NAM vs IRE: Predicted XIs Namibia : Michael van Lingen, Louren Steenkamp, Jan Frylinck, Gerhard Erasmus (c), Zane Green (wk), Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton, JJ Smit, Waldo Smith, Jack Brassell, Ruben Trumpelmann, Ben Scholtz Ireland : Andrew Balbirnie, Paul Stirling (c), Cade Carmichael, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (wk), Curtis Campher, George Dockrell, Andy McBrine, Gavin Hoey, Liam McCarthy, Jai Moondra NAM vs IRE: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Paul Stirling and Gerhard Eramus are two experienced batters, and they have played match-winning knocks numerous times in the past. Probable Best Bowler Jan Nicol Loftie-Eaton and Gavin Hoey bowled well in the first game, and they will be the ones to watch out for. Today Match Prediction : Ireland have an experienced and skillful lineup. Hence, we predict Ireland to win this game. NAM vs IRE Match 2nd ODI, Today Match NAM vs IRE, NAM vs IRE Prediction, NAM vs IRE Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Namibia vs Ireland 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.
Zimbabwe bat with two changes; Farooqi back for Afghanistan
Zimbabwe brought in Newman Nyamhuri and Tadiwanashe Marumani in place of Ernest Masuku and Ben Curran
India U-19 Women's A, B Teams To Take On Nepal In Tri-series At BCCI CoE In November
Road U19 Girls T20I: Two India U-19 women's sides will take on Nepal in a tri-series at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru from November 10 to 22, as the two-time defending champions look to enter the final leg of preparations ahead of next years U19 World Cup. According to a press release issued by Cricket Association of Nepal (CAN) secretary Paras Khadka, the series will feature India U-19 Women's 'A' and India U-19 Women's 'B' alongside Nepal's U-19 women's team. India U-19 B team will first take on Nepal on November 12, before the visitors face India A side on November 14. India U-19 B team will take on Nepal in the first reverse fixture of November 18, before India U-19 A take on the visitors on November 20. The tri-series will conclude with the final on November 22, with all matches having 1pm start time. India have been drawn with co-hosts Nepal, the West Indies and Ireland in Group A of the 2027 ICC U-19 Women's T20 World Cup, to be held in Bangladesh and Nepal from January 21 to February 6. The two-time champions will open their title defence against the West Indies in Kathmandu on January 22. Shafali Verma led India to the inaugural title win in South Africa in 2023, and Niki Prasad's team retained the crown in Malaysia in 2025. For India, fielding two squads in the same competition offers the selectors a chance to assess a wider pool of players before narrowing down on a 15-member World Cup squad. Nepal will arrive in Bengaluru with recent match practice, after participating in 'Belt and Road U19 Girls T20I' tournament in China from November 3 to 8, alongside hosts China, Hong Kong and Thailand. After this tri-series, India U-19 women will also host England U-19 women in a five-match T20I series from November 26 to December 6. The BCA Stadium in Kotambi, Vadodara, will host the first two games, before the action moves to Surat's CB Patel International Cricket Stadium for the last three matches. Earlier in the season, India U-19, led by wicketkeeper-batter Bhavika Ahire, a member of the 2025 title winning team, had taken on Sri Lanka U-19 women in a six-match white-ball home series which they won in Chennai and Puducherry in June and July. The third edition of the U-19 Womens T20 World Cup will feature four groups of four teams, with matches spread across Chattogram, Sylhet and Kathmandu. The group stage runs till January 26, after which the qualifiers will be split into two Super Six groups. Earlier in the season, India U-19, led by wicketkeeper-batter Bhavika Ahire, a member of the 2025 title winning team, had taken on Sri Lanka U-19 women in a six-match white-ball home series which they won in Chennai and Puducherry in June and July. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sourav Ganguly Suffers Setback As Delhi High Court Refuses Stay On 'Doosra' Release
The Delhi High Court on Thursday refused to stop the theatre release of the film 'Doosra' on October 23 on a plea filed by cricketer Sourav Ganguly.
NZ vs IND 2nd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs
NZ vs IND 2ndT20I, Cricket Tips: Team India carried on their batting form from the West Indies series to the first game against New Zealand in Christchurch. New Zealand posted a massive total of 225 runs, but they failed to defend it as India responded with 230/6 in 19.4 overs. The Indian batting was superb, and Sanju Samson led it with a 23-ball fifty. New Zealand also batted well, but their catching and bowling were disappointing. With a 1-0 lead, India will take on New Zealand in the second game on Saturday at Hagley Oval at 12:30 PM IST. Ishan Kishan has been ruled out from the second game and Vaibhav Suryavanshi is likely to replace him. NZ vs IND: Match Details Date : October 24, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 12:30 PM IST Venue : Hagley Oval, Christchurch NZ vs IND: Live Streaming Details Fans can watch the live action of the second T20I on the Sony Sports Networks. The live stream will be available on the Sony LIV app or website. NZ vs IND: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 32 New Zealand : 11 India : 20 No-result : 1 NZ vs IND: Ground Pitch Report Hagley Oval offered a flat deck for the first game, and there won't be many changes. There are chances that we might see another 200+ score in the second game. The fast bowlers will still have some swing with the new ball, and the bounce here is excellent. NZ vs IND: Predicted XIs New Zealand : Finn Allen, Tim Seifert (wk), Daryl Mitchell, Bevon Jacobs, Glenn Phillips, Michael Bracewell, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Adam Milne, Matt Henry, Lockie Ferguson India : Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Sanju Samson (wk), Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Shreyas Iyer , Nitish Reddy, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Yadav NZ vs IND: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Sanju Samson and Glenn Phillips showed their good form in the first game. They showed how to play an impactful knock and will be confident for another good game. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep Singh and Mitch Santner had a good first game. Despite a high-scoring game, they were pretty good with their lengths. Today Match Prediction: India must be confident after the first win, and they will start the second game as favorites to win. NZ vs IND Match 2nd T20I, Today Match NZ vs IND, NZ vs IND Prediction, NZ vs IND Predicted XIs, Injury Update for New Zealand vs India Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi-Abhishek Sharma selfie goes viral!
After the match, Naman Dhir also said that Abhishek's pep talk, especially the Punjabi bit pumped up the players.
ICC revises Olympic cricket qualification rules, confirms T20 World Cup 2028, 2030 window
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has revised the qualification pathway for the women's cricket tournament at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. It has linked a potential additional berth to the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy in...
Rohit, Kohli Should Be Supported To Play For India In 2027 WC: Pamment
ODI World Cup: Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli should be fully supported to feature in the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, as the two greats have earned the right to decide when to call time on their illustrious playing careers, said former New Zealand assistant coach James Pamment. Pamment spent eight years with the Mumbai Indians as a fielding coach, where Rohit led the side to IPL 2019 and 2020 wins. Well, I think with all top players, when the time is coming towards the end of the career, it's a conversation that is always had with them. Those guys have earned the right to make the decision on when they do want to move away. If they have decided that the ODI World Cup in South Africa is a pinnacle event that they want to be at, then they should be supported to be there. Then it becomes about performance and contribution to the group. Now, I've never worked closely with Virat. I've watched him, obviously, very closely when I've been with the New Zealand team or with Mumbai Indians. I've watched him and to me, he's just the ultimate professional. So he's the sort of guy that I would want in my environment the whole time because he's the ultimate professional, Pamment told IANS in an exclusive interaction. Since Rohit was removed as the captain despite leading India to the 2025 Champions Trophy title, every bilateral ODI series has turned into a verdict on the futures of the two batting veterans. India last won an ODI series in New Zealand in 2018/19 and curiosity will again be on a high on whether Rohit and Kohli help India win the five-game series starting on November 4, especially when bilateral series wins have been hard to come and the Test team-bound players will be unavailable for the last two games. Rohit, I know obviously very well. He was captain at Mumbai when I was there for eight years. Once again, just the sort of guy that you want around the group. As long as their performances are warranting their selection and their contributions to the group, sharing their experiences and knowledge, I would love to have them in my group for sure. But as soon as that starts to wane a little bit, they'll know more than anybody else. If the passion starts to wane and it becomes a drag to be travelling, training and playing, that's the time when you step aside. I hope that these guys make it all the way through to South Africa and can finish their careers in fine styles because both are incredible servants for the game, obviously for the BCCI and for Indian cricket and Indian fans. Amazing to have these guys playing for so long, but for world cricket as well. I don't think you find too many people who just don't hold them in the highest of regards, added Pamment. He also felt the series would double up as an ideal platform for ODI World Cup preparation, with conditions closely resembling those in South Africa, and predicted packed stands for what could be the pair's farewell appearances in the country. I think so because the New Zealand conditions will be very similar to the conditions that the teams will get in South Africa, especially down on the coastal grounds. Grounds like Durban, Port Elizabeth (now Gqeberha) and Newlands will be very similar to the New Zealand conditions that they experience here for these five ODIs. For New Zealand fans and fans in general of cricket, to be able to say, we're going to get Rohit and Virat here again, maybe for the last time, is incredible. I think already there's been 115,000 tickets sold across the three series. 63,000 of those have been sold, I think, for the T20s. But I would be very surprised if all those ODIs are not sellouts. It's the attraction to be able to go and watch world-class players like those two, probably for the last time, and to see how our New Zealand boys compete in that environment. We have played some very good ODI cricket on some very good wickets at home. Pamment, however, was not entirely comfortable with the scheduling of the 50-over games. The start time will be three o'clock. So, the second half of those games will be a little bit like the T20I games that we're going to watch. I hope the conditions don't impact too much so that it becomes a bit of an imbalance. I'd much prefer it if we were playing at maybe one o'clock starts and then it goes into the early evening. But I realise that television times are very important, especially for the viewership back in India as well. This is such an important series for New Zealand cricket. To be able to host India for 12 fixtures across the time that they're here is invaluable, I guess, from a financial perspective as well. He further stated the Indian teams multi-format trip would offer a much-needed boost to the finances of New Zealand Cricket (NZC). New Zealand cricket posted a 7 million dollars loss last year. So, looking for this series to just financially put them on a solid footing and it usually does. But like I say, the interest at this stage is, once again, it's a little bit unprecedented. The amount of tickets that have been sold, still with a few days left - the first two games are sold out. The game in Hamilton is sold out as well. The game in Auckland, which is the biggest venue for hosting T20 cricket, it'll break the record. So I think the bilateral record is maybe 36,000 or 37,000 and it will break that record. It wouldn't surprise me if there were 42,000 to 45,000 people watching that T20 on Friday night in Auckland. Pamment also pointed to the growing Indian diaspora in New Zealand as a huge factor in big ticket sales. So, it's of great interest and obviously, the guys that are coming are of experience and quality. It's exciting for New Zealand fans to be able to see that. Also, we've got a massive growing population of Indians now living in New Zealand as well. Obviously, as you know, all passionate cricket people and it wouldn't surprise me if, especially at that Auckland venue, there'll be a very large number of expatriate Indians there cheering on India as well. It'll be a fantastic sign. With Jasprit Bumrah held back for the Tests, the series also opens a door for India's younger fast bowlers to strengthen their case for ODI World Cup spots. Pamment felt those who found their lengths quickest would thrive, as New Zealand pitches now offer far more pace and bounce than before. Well, from a bowling point of view, a little bit like we talked about in the T20Is, it's just trying to make sure you understand where the length is I need to bowl, to bowl my best ball, which is that top of the off, top of the fourth stump line and length consistently. The guys that adapt and find that length the quickest and can stay there consistently will be the ones that will perform well. The New Zealand wickets have improved considerably over the last five to 10 years. We used to have little seam in wickets that stayed relatively low and it made scoring hard. But New Zealand wickets now, if the bowlers don't bowl well, there is pace and bounce and the quality in both these teams will capitalise if bowlers are missing their areas. So from a batting point of view, it will be about remaining positive. You'll have your little targets where you want to try and get to, but 300 plus on all of those ODI venues is something that's achievable with good batting, good communication, and partnerships formed. At the same time, Pamment flagged his concern over dew and late finishes skewing the contest. Like I say, I just hope that those second innings in those ODIs are not impacted too much by, let's say, dew or conditions that become difficult because fielders are slipping around, the ball gets wet and is changed. That's my only thought: that it generally takes nearly four hours now to bowl 50 overs these days. So that takes the first innings up to seven o'clock. By the time that second innings starts, it'll be 7:40. By the time the game comes to a conclusion, it's almost approaching midnight. So I can tell you even at the back end of those ODIs, it'll still be very much spring when we're coming down the track of those back-end ODIs. I'm hoping that the conditions don't make it a lottery and it just becomes so difficult to be in the field in the second innings and teams just want to bat second because they think that that's going to give them an advantage. I love to think that a team can win the toss, look at the wicket and think we should be batting first here because ODI cricket is played in good conditions. By the time that second innings starts, it'll be 7:40. By the time the game comes to a conclusion, it's almost approaching midnight. So I can tell you even at the back end of those ODIs, it'll still be very much spring when we're coming down the track of those back-end ODIs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ex-Pacer Awana to Head BCCI Junior Selection Committee
Former India fast bowler Parvinder Awana has been appointed as the chairman of the newly constituted BCCI junior selection committee. The Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) also named Krishna Das, Rakesh Patel, and N. Arjun Yadav as members, with a fifth member to be announced soon. The committee members bring extensive experience from their playing careers and coaching roles at various levels.
LA Olympics Cricket Qualifiers Scheduled for Early 2028
The International Cricket Council (ICC) has confirmed that the qualifiers for the Los Angeles Olympics' cricket competition will take place in January-February 2028, according to a media report.
Los Angeles Olympics Cricket Qualifiers in January-February 2028: Report
Cricket would be returning to the Olympics after over 100 years in the 2028 Games
Sooryavanshi In Focus As India Step Out For Milestone T20I Against New Zealand (Preview)
T20 World Champions: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's potential return has grabbed the headlines again as India gear up to face New Zealand in the second T20I of the five-match series at Hagley Oval here on Saturday. India, the reigning two-time T20 World Champions, will be stepping onto the field for their 300th T20I match and will be looking to double up their 1-0 lead in the series after they won a run-scoring feast at the same venue on Thursday. That was also India's highest T20I chase as the likes of Sanju Samson, Abhishek Sharma, Shreyas Iyer and Naman Dhir starred in the 226-run chase. Now they are likely to get the addition of Sooryavanshi as Ishan Kishan is out of the second match due to a low-grade right adductor strain. Sooryavanshi, if he gets the nod, would be licking his lips as the second match will also be played at the same venue and on the same pitch which hosted the 455-run feast across the two innings. That might also mean that the used surface can have something in it for the bowlers, with likely wear and tear expected too. With Sooryavanshi likely to return, India are likely to open with two left-handers in Sooryavanshi and Abhishek Sharma and shift Samson to No.3. This might also open the window for the Kiwis to bring an off-spinner up front, at which India struggled during the T20 World Cup 2026. New Zealand would be happy to take the game to the last over despite the start India had and dew being there in Christchurch in the opener. But they would want to make a comeback sooner rather than later, as another defeat would make a comeback way too far in the five-match series. This would not be ideal for the Kiwis as West Indies recently pushed India to the limits and tied the five-match series 2-2 with the last game getting washed out. India's 300th T20I match will see them become just the second team to complete a triple century of matches in the format, after Pakistan, who have played 304 games. The Men in Blue have 199 outright wins, but their six super over and bowl-out wins have already put them past the 200-mark, and they have 205 wins in the format. When: October 24, 2026, 12:30 PM Where: Hagley Oval, Christchurch Where to watch: The match will be shown live on the Sony Sports Network channels on TV, and live streaming is available on the Sony LIV app and website. Squads: India: Shreyas Iyer (captain), Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Abhishek Sharma, Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Prince Yadav, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Varun Chakaravarthy, Arshdeep Singh, Mayank Yadav, and Bhuvneshwar Kumar. Squads: Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ex-India Pacer Parvinder Awana Named Chairman Of BCCI Junior Mens Selection Committee
Al Amerat Cricket Grounds: Former India pacer Parvinder Awana was on Friday appointed as chairman of the BCCI's junior mens selection committee, with Krishna Das, Rakesh Patel and N Arjun Yadav named as members of the panel. The appointments were made on the recommendation of the Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC), which screened and interviewed the applicants before finalising the names, the BCCI said in a media advisory. The fifth member of the committee will be appointed shortly, according to the advisory issued by BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia. Awana, who played two T20Is for India, had a productive first-class career for Delhi, claiming 191 wickets in 62 matches. The former fast bowler turned out for Delhi, India A and Rest of India, and also played in the IPL for Kings XI Punjab, now known as Punjab Kings. After hanging up his boots, Awana moved into coaching and has worked extensively in age-group cricket, with Delhi's U-16, U-19 and U-23 sides as well as the India U-19 team. Hes also currently the Delhi senior mens bowling coach and it means that he will have to relinquish the role to become the new India junior mens chief selector. He has also been involved in various high-performance programmes run by the BCCI and its Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. That previous experience of working closely with young players is expected to be valuable in his new role. Meanwhile, Das, a former fast bowler, represented Assam and Goa in domestic cricket and picked up 166 wickets in 49 first-class matches. He played for India U-19 and India A, and later served as bowling coach of the India U-19 side and of Uttarakhand's senior mens team. Patel, who represented Gujarat and Baroda, also played for India A and featured in the Duleep Trophy, Deodhar Trophy and Irani Trophy. He has coached both his former state sides across the U-19, U-23 and senior levels, and was head coach of the Baroda U-23 team in the 2025/26 season. Yadav, who played 83 first-class matches, was a member of India's U-19 World Cup-winning squad in 2000 and also represented India A. After his playing days with Hyderabad, he took up coaching and served as head coach of the Hyderabad senior and U-23 teams. He has been a BCCI match referee since 2022. Between them, the four members bring a mix of first-class experience and coaching know-how, with each having worked with junior or age-group sides in some capacity. Das and Yadav have both been part of the India U-19 mens set-up as players in the past. Yadav, who played 83 first-class matches, was a member of India's U-19 World Cup-winning squad in 2000 and also represented India A. After his playing days with Hyderabad, he took up coaching and served as head coach of the Hyderabad senior and U-23 teams. He has been a BCCI match referee since 2022. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Who is Jintimani Kalita? 22-year-old Assam cricketer makes India debut vs Zimbabwe
India have handed a debut cap to youngster Jintimani Kalita in the first ODI against Zimbabwe in Vadodara. Former captain Harmanpreet Kaur handed the cap to the 22-year-old right-arm medium-fast bowler, who hails from Assam.
Parvinder Awana to head BCCI junior selection committee
After retirement, he moved into coaching, working with Delhis U16, U19 and U23 teams, as well as India U19 and various BCCI/COE high-performance programmes
