Cricket

Sai Sudharsan and Gill lead IPL 2026 Orange Cap race; Rabada joint-topper on Purple Cap table

Three Gujarat Titans bowlers returned three-wicket hauls against Chennai Super Kings, and all of them made serious moves up the Purple Cap table

IPL 2026: Very Happy To Get The Momentum, Says Gill After GT Secure Top Two Finish

Chennai Super Kings: Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill said he was delighted to see his side regain momentum at the right time, after sealing a toptwo finish in IPL 2026 with a thumping 89-run win over Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. GTs huge win was set up by Gill, B Sai Sudharsan, and Jos Buttler hitting fifties, while Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, and Rashid Khan picked three wickets each. Very important going into the playoffs. Very happy to get the momentum. If I look at the games, even the first couple of games, we were getting close, and it was about adding that extra 5 percent, which we got in the Delhi game. Very happy with the way I am batting. Whenever you get out, you feel you could do more. Yes, the fielding was better than in the last game. When you are playing such an intense game, the emotions come out. Neck is fine. It is about keeping up with the good things we are doing, and that is the key thing for us. After 12 games, we were at number one but lost the last two games and could not finish in the top two. Very grateful for the fans that turn up and support us, said Gill at the conclusion of the game. Player of the Match Siraj said he had worked hard to rediscover his rhythm with the new ball. The ball is coming out nicely. I was sitting out for most games in the World Cup, and I was working hard in the nets. I wasn't bowling well in the first few games, but I have gotten my rhythm back. I work on everything from my rhythm, yorkers, and bowling at different phases. On a red soil pitch, I would always try to get Sanju (Samson) driving. I don't try much and keep things simple, even if I can keep the pressure, then Rabada can pick the wickets. Player of the Match Siraj said he had worked hard to rediscover his rhythm with the new ball. The ball is coming out nicely. I was sitting out for most games in the World Cup, and I was working hard in the nets. I wasn't bowling well in the first few games, but I have gotten my rhythm back. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's about doing your best every game, no matter how you feel. As long as you rock up and are not afraid of being competitive, that's all I try to do. I've bowled in all three phases. For me, it's whatever the coach and team require of me. We've got a while now. Feet up, I guess, get stuck in your hotel room, watch some series, and hit the ground running (for Qualifier 1). Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Not Many People Buy The Fact That We Are A Young Team In Transition, Says Gaikwad

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad admitted the franchise is in a phase of transition with several inexperienced players, even as he expressed pride in the units effort despite missing out on the playoffs in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 in Ahmedabad on Thursday. CSKs chances of entering the playoffs ended with them suffering their heaviest defeat in the IPL by 89 runs against Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday. Not many people buy the fact that we are a young team in transition, with a lot of inexperienced players. More than 8-10 players have played less than 20 games; they've gotten exposure, and we've found out what areas we're lacking. We still have six away wins, and I'm proud of the unit. We missed out on chasing in Hyderabad and couldn't restrict them in Chennai. Not able to do that, but still proud. Moving on from Rahane, Rayudu, etc., the experience we had is tough... Karthik, Urvil, and Brevis, who missed out initially, are there. Karthik has potential and has areas to improve. Urvil's playing a full season for the first time, that comes with expectations, said Gaikwad at the conclusion of the game. Reflecting on the season, Gaikwad said injuries to Nathan Ellis, Khaleel Ahmed, Ayush Mhatre, Ramakrishna Ghosh, and Jamie Overton unsettled the side at various stages, while admitting the bowlers werent great in Ahmedabad. We wanted to chase whatever the total is asap. When you're chasing 230, it's not easy against that bowling attack. I thought, why don't we give it a shot and express ourselves, credit to them. The wicket was spongy to start, and they started well. Our bowling wasn't good in the Power-play. Hard to stop their openers. We had our chance to restrict them to under 200, but failed to do so. Reflecting on the season, Gaikwad said injuries to Nathan Ellis, Khaleel Ahmed, Ayush Mhatre, Ramakrishna Ghosh, and Jamie Overton unsettled the side at various stages, while admitting the bowlers werent great in Ahmedabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Asked about MS Dhonis future, who didnt play a single game due to calf and thumb injuries, Gaikwad said, You and I'll get to know it next year. It's a hard miss for us. He can come in those late overs and change the game just by staying in the crease. Never know about next season, but really happy with the guys we have. Article Source: IANS

Gujarat Titans knock out CSK and seal top-two finish

The top order and their bowlers all came to the party as GT closed out their league stage in style

IPL 2026: Siraj, Rabada, Rashid Pick Three Wickets Apiece As GT Seal Top-two Finish, Knock Out CSK

Chennai Super Kings: Mohammed Siraj, Kagiso Rabada, and Rashid Khan picked three wickets each as Gujarat Titans (GT) thrashed Chennai Super Kings (CSK) by 89 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday, and sealed a top-two finish in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 points table. The result also meant five-time champions CSK have been eliminated from the race to the playoffs. After fifties from B. Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, and Jos Buttler took GT to 229/4, the bowlers ran through the CSK batting line-up to dismiss them for just 140 all out in 13.4 overs. Siraj (3-26) and Rabada (3-32) were stellar with the new ball yet again, while Rashid chipped in with 3-18. Starting from the word do, CSKs chase never got going. Sanju Samson fell on the first ball, edging off Siraj behind to Jos Buttler. Ruturaj Gaikwad briefly countered with a four and two sixes, but Siraj struck again in the second over by castling him for 16. Urvil Patel followed soon after, caught at deep square leg for a two-ball duck, leaving CSK tottering at 31/3. Matthew Short tried to inject momentum with a brisk 24, but Rabada removed him in the fifth over. Kartik Sharma and Dewald Brevis attempted to rebuild, but a direct hit from Gill ran the former out for 19. At 63/5, CSK were staring at the ignominy of being bowled out for a sub-100 score. But Shivam Dube launched a spirited counterattack, smashing four fours and as many sixes in his 17-ball 47. But Rashid Khans introduction ended his fightback, as Dube miscued a lofted shot and Gill pulled off a stunning diving catch at extra cover. Rashid then dismissed Anshul Kamboj (19) and Dewald Brevis (8), while Rabada took out Noor Ahmad and Spencer Johnson to end CSKs misery and hand GT a thumping victory to sign off from the league stage on a high. The result confirms GTs place in the top two; it gives them the cushion of an extra chance of playing the final in Ahmedabad on May 31. But Shivam Dube launched a spirited counterattack, smashing four fours and as many sixes in his 17-ball 47. But Rashid Khans introduction ended his fightback, as Dube miscued a lofted shot and Gill pulled off a stunning diving catch at extra cover. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans 229/4 in 20 overs (B. Sai Sudharsan 84, Shubman Gill 64, Mukesh Choudhary 1-36, Spencer Johnson 1-47) beat Chennai Super Kings 140 all out in 13.4 overs (Shivam Dube 47, Matthew Short 24; Mohammed Siraj 3-26, Kagiso Rabada 3-32) by 89 runs Article Source: IANS

SRH vs RCB Match 67, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Predictio

SRH vs RCB Match 67 , Cricket Tips :Sunrisers Hyderabad and Royal Challengers Bengaluru are two of the three teams to make it through to the playoffs. These two will be up against each other now in the upcoming contest of the IPL 2026. They will step on the field on Friday at 7:30 PM IST at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad. RCB are at the top of the points table with 18 points, and SRH are placed third with 16. Both teams have been excellent with the form, and they are two in-form batting groups. RCB have beaten SRH in the first game of the season and will be hoping to replicate that performance. For SRH, they will be in to level it up. SRH vs RCB: Match Details Date : May 22, 2026 (Friday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hyderabad SRH vs RCB Live Streaming Details Indian fans can switch to Star Sports Networks to watch the SRH vs RCB clash. Meanwhile, fans can catch the live stream of the game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. SRH vs RCB Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 27 SRH : 14 RCB : 12 No - Result : 01 SRH vs RCB: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Hyderabad is expected to do well for the batters. The wicket has been flat and good for high totals. Batters have enjoyed their time here, and we might see another 200 thrillers. There is good bounce and pace for the bowlers, but not much movement. SRH vs RCB Possible XIs SRH : Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan (wk), Heinrich Klaasen, Nitish Reddy, Salil Arora, Pat Cummins (c), Shivang Kumar, Eshan Malinga, Sakib Hussain, Praful Hinge RCB : Jacob Bethell, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar , Jitesh Sharma (wk), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Rashik Salem Dar, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood SRH vs RCB Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Virat Kohli and Ishan Kishan are two in-form batters who have played match-winning knocks in recent matches. They will be big wickets in this game. Probable Best Bowler Bhuvneshwar Kumar and Eshan Malinga are premier bowlers for both teams. They are performing well and are in wicket-taking form. Today Match Prediction : Both teams are solid, but RCB have a better bowling attack. Hence, we predict Royal Challengers Bengaluru to win this game. SRH vs RCB Match 67, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, SRH vs RCB 2026 Prediction, SRH vs RCB Predicted XIs, Injury Update for SRH vs RCB Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions 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.

JKCA Declares Elected Office-bearers After Supreme Court Vacates Stay On Results

Apex Council Members Anil Kumar: The Jammu & Kashmir Cricket Association (JKCA) on Thursday announced its newly elected office-bearers after the Supreme Court vacated the interim stay on the declaration of results, thus clearing the way for the formal conclusion of the electoral process. The development came after petitioners in Writ Petition (Civil) No. 17/2026, Youth Cricket Club & Ors. vs JKCA & Anr., withdrew their plea before the apex court, citing alleged fraud and electoral roll manipulation. JKCA counsel had raised preliminary objections on the maintainability of the petition, following which the interim order dated January 8, 2026 - which had permitted the election process but stayed declaration of results - stood vacated. Electoral Officer A.K. Joti, IAS (Retd.), subsequently declared the results of the JKCA Elections. The newly-elected office bearers are: Javid Ahmed Kitab (President), Desh Rattan Dubey (VicePresident), Vivek Khajuria (Secretary), Rajan Singh (Treasurer), and Apex Council Members Anil Kumar Koul and Rakesh Koul. Further nominations were confirmed under Rule 22 of the JKCA constitution. Senior Deputy Accountant General (AMG I/Administration) Ankush Kumar has been nominated to the Apex Council by the AG Office, while Ankita Jalla and Vikrant Taggar have also been nominated to the Apex Council as representatives from the state in the Indian Cricketers Association (ICA). JKCA expressed its gratitude to the Supreme Court, the Electoral Officer, and stakeholders for ensuring a fair and transparent process to have an elected body in place after nine years. Further nominations were confirmed under Rule 22 of the JKCA constitution. Senior Deputy Accountant General (AMG I/Administration) Ankush Kumar has been nominated to the Apex Council by the AG Office, while Ankita Jalla and Vikrant Taggar have also been nominated to the Apex Council as representatives from the state in the Indian Cricketers Association (ICA). Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Association now looks forward to moving ahead collectively in the larger interest of cricket in the Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir. The outgoing Sub Committee Members of JKCA, while congratulating the newly elected office-bearers, have wished them good luck for their future endeavours, added the JKCA. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Really Happy With Five Fifties In A Row, But A Lot Of Work To Do, Says Sudharsan

Chennai Super Kings: Gujarat Titans batter B. Sai Sudharsan said he was delighted to notch up five consecutive fifties in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 and be in an exclusive club that has Virender Sehwag, David Warner, and Jos Buttler, but stressed that the teams focus remained firmly on the bigger challenge ahead. Sudharsan, now the leading run-getter in IPL 2026, top-scored with a sparkling 84 as GT posted a mammoth 229/4 in their 20 overs against Chennai Super Kings at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday. I think it feels really awesome to be in that list, but I think there's still a job to do. We have to win this game, and we have to build through the playoffs as well. So my eyes are on that. I'm very happy and grateful for the God to give this opportunity for me to be there, 5 games for the team. Really happy for that, said Sudharsan in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Asked about his approach in tight situations, Sudharsan highlighted the importance of partnerships over personal milestones, as he stitched stands of 125 and 82 with Shubman Gill and Buttler, who hit 64 and 57 not out, respectively. I think the way Shubhi played today was just unbelievable. And even when Jos came in and gave that start, it was tremendous. Maybe I could have been at my best; I probably could have scored 1015 more runs. I think that's in my mind. No, I think we don't see our score and play accordingly. Asked about his approach in tight situations, Sudharsan highlighted the importance of partnerships over personal milestones, as he stitched stands of 125 and 82 with Shubman Gill and Buttler, who hit 64 and 57 not out, respectively. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The left-handed opener also spoke about his camaraderie with Gill off the field. I think definitely. I have spent a lot of time and have a lot of fun, he added. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Sudharsan, Gill, Buttler Smash Fifties, Power GT To 229/4 Against CSK

Chennai Super Kings: Gujarat Titans rode on fluent fifties from B. Sai Sudharsan, Shubman Gill, and Jos Buttler to post a daunting 229/4 against Chennai Super Kings in their final league stage clash of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday. It was an innings that was straight out of GTs successful template -- the top three batters once again did the bulk of the scoring and laid the foundation for posting a massive total. While Sudharsan top-scored with 84 off 53 balls, Gill smashed 64 off 37 balls, and Buttler applied finishing touches to hit an unbeaten 57 off 27 balls as the trio piled misery on a hapless CSK bowling line-up. Right from the word go, Gill and Sudharsan set the tone for GTs mammoth total on a red soil pitch. Gill came out with all the guys blazing to give GT a flying start, while Sudharsan initially played the supporting role. But once the powerplay ended, both batters shifted their gears beautifully, as boundaries came thick and fast from both ends. Gill raced to a 23ball fifty with a brace of sixes off Noor Ahmad, while also crossing 6000 T20 runs. Sudharsan followed him by getting his fifth consecutive IPL fifty off 35 balls, placing him in a club that already has Virender Sehwag, David Warner, and Buttler. Their 125-run stand also meant Gill and Sudharsan joined Virat Kohli and AB de Villiers to equal the record for most 100run partnerships in IPL-10. Sudharsan has also put together a seventh stand of 100 runs or more with Gill, which has set a new IPL record. CSK finally broke through in the 13th over when Gill miscued off Johnson to mid-wicket. Buttler walked in and immediately lifted Noor for two sixes to keep the tempo high. Sudharsan, meanwhile, continued to strike clean sixes and fours to move into the 80s. The 18th over swung momentum further GTs way. Sudharsan lofted Kamboj for six but perished on the next ball by holing out to long-off. Rahul Tewatia was run out without scoring, but Buttler responded with backtoback boundaries to reach his fifty off 23 balls. Washington Sundar joined Buttler and immediately carved Mukesh Choudhary for a six over third man. Though Sundar gave a catch behind to Urvil Patel on the final ball, GT had crossed 220 by then. Now facing an uphill chase, CSK will hope Sanju Samson, its most effective batter this season, will be fit enough to come out to bat in the second innings after a finger injury saw him get off the field in the second over. The 18th over swung momentum further GTs way. Sudharsan lofted Kamboj for six but perished on the next ball by holing out to long-off. Rahul Tewatia was run out without scoring, but Buttler responded with backtoback boundaries to reach his fifty off 23 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans 229/4 in 20 overs (B. Sai Sudharsan 84, Shubman Gill 64, Mukesh Choudhary 1-36, Spencer Johnson 1-47) against Chennai Super Kings Article Source: IANS

Kiran More Oversees Successful BRPL Delhi NCR Trials Amid Overwhelming Participation

The Beyond Reach Premier League: Thousands of players turned up to showcase their talent as the Beyond Reach Premier League (BRPL) successfully concluded its Delhi-NCR trials on May 20 and 21 at Trident Cricket Academy, near Hi-Tech World School, Ghaziabad, witnessing tremendous enthusiasm and participation from aspiring cricketers across Delhi-NCR and nearby regions. The two-day trials saw young, talented players turning up to showcase their talent as BRPL continued their mission of identifying and nurturing grassroots tennis-ball cricket talent from across the country. Former Indian wicketkeeper and BRPL league commissioner, Kiran More, oversaw the trials and closely monitored the performances of participating players during the selection process. Players were assessed across multiple skill parameters, including batting, bowling, fielding, fitness, temperament, and match awareness, as BRPL focused on identifying promising talent capable of excelling in a professionally structured tennis-ball cricket environment. Speaking after the successful completion of the trials, Sushil Sharma, Co-Founder & CEO of Beyond Reach Premier League (BRPL), said: The response we received during the Delhi trials was truly overwhelming. It was inspiring to witness the passion, energy, and commitment shown by players who travelled from different parts of Delhi-NCR and nearby regions to participate. This is exactly the kind of cricketing ecosystem we want to build through BRPL. Speaking about the trials, Kiran More said, It was great to see such strong participation and enthusiasm among players during the BRPL Delhi trials. There is immense raw talent at the grassroots level, and platforms like BRPL can play a very important role in giving these players direction, exposure, and confidence. Several players displayed impressive skills and a strong hunger to perform. Speaking after the successful completion of the trials, Sushil Sharma, Co-Founder & CEO of Beyond Reach Premier League (BRPL), said: The response we received during the Delhi trials was truly overwhelming. It was inspiring to witness the passion, energy, and commitment shown by players who travelled from different parts of Delhi-NCR and nearby regions to participate. This is exactly the kind of cricketing ecosystem we want to build through BRPL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With participation open to players from across India, BRPL aims to strengthen grassroots cricket and provide aspiring cricketers with opportunities to progress through an organised and competitive platform. Article Source: IANS

French Open | Alcarazs absence a mental boost for Sinner: Sania

Exiled Afghanistan women to tour England during T20 World Cup

Afghan Refugee Women's Team will start their tour on June 22

CSA apologises for 'confusion' around New Year's Test tickets availability

The statement comes in after CSA faced backlash on social media over making just 13% of tickets for the Newlands Test available to the general public

IPL 2026: Rajat Patidar Fit To Lead RCB For Clash Against SRH, Says Mo Bobat

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Director: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru Director of Cricket Mo Bobat confirmed skipper Rajat Patidars availability for Fridays leaguestage clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad, after he missed the clash against Punjab Kings in Dharamshala due to being hit on the head while facing Kolkata Knight Riders in Raipur. Rajats good to go. We were cautious and didnt take any risks with him. We thought wed give him a little bit longer to recover and rest, but hes here, hes practising, and hes good to go, Bobat said in the pre-match press conference on the eve of the fixture. Bobat reserved special praise for senior pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who currently holds the purple cap via 24 wickets in 13 innings. Bhuvi has been brilliant. His outcomes have been excellent; hes taken a lot of wickets, but hes also bowled with excellent rhythm. Hes been effective at the front end of the innings and also the back end, so were very pleased with how hes going. He talks well in meetings, hes a good source of insight and ideas in the field under pressure. He can be a great support to Rajat and Jitesh as well, which is really important. We get huge value out of him because he gives us so much. With the playoffs approaching, Bobat underlined the importance of staying grounded. It sounds like a bit of a clich, but we just try and take one game at a time. Whether were home or away, it doesnt really matter to us. We try and understand the conditions, respect the opposition, plan for them, and then focus on what were good at and try and do that as well as we can. He talks well in meetings, hes a good source of insight and ideas in the field under pressure. He can be a great support to Rajat and Jitesh as well, which is really important. We get huge value out of him because he gives us so much. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead to the contest against a strong SRH, Bobat said, All the teams in this competition are good sides, there are dangerous players in every team, and anyone can take the game away from you, so you have to be very humble and respectful of the opposition, but also clear on your own strengths. Were not too bound by any history or records; were just concentrating on the game tomorrow night. Article Source: IANS

TENNIS | Gray fights past troublesome back and Sasikumar for semifinal berth

IPL 2026: Form Here Much Better Than It Was In World Cup, Says GTs Buttler

Indian Premier League: Gujarat Titans wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler said he feels in good touch this season and credited the Indian Premier League (IPL) for providing the ideal environment to sharpen his skills under pressure. Buttler has turned a corner from his woeful run in this years Mens T20 World Cup, where he managed just 87 runs in eight innings, by amassing 412 runs in 13 games for GT, who have already qualified for IPL 2026 playoffs. It's been much better than the World Cup. I've felt in really good form. I'd have liked to have converted a few more of those starts into big scores, but now I feel like I'm hitting the ball well. It (IPL) helps massively. Of course, here, there are great facilities. There's so much space for practice and so many resources. So it's been nice to just come here. Every time I've been to an IPL, I've found that it's been a really good place to work on my game, and obviously under pressure against the best players in the world. And it's a really enjoyable tournament to be a part of. So, it's been great. I think any time, doesn't matter what age you are, it's exciting and great to be here, said Buttler in a pre-match chat with the broadcasters. Reflecting on the last game, where GT lost to Kolkata Knight Riders, Buttler said the batting unit had done well but admitted lapses in other areas cost them the game. To be fair, I thought we batted pretty well on that surface. I think more so as a group, we were disappointed, mostly with the way we fielded and our execution, a little bit with the ball. But we've just got to come out here today, and it's obviously a massive game for both teams. Start on nought again and put in a really good performance. We've been playing some really good cricket throughout the season. So big game today. Reflecting on the last game, where GT lost to Kolkata Knight Riders, Buttler said the batting unit had done well but admitted lapses in other areas cost them the game. To be fair, I thought we batted pretty well on that surface. I think more so as a group, we were disappointed, mostly with the way we fielded and our execution, a little bit with the ball. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We're all really well prepared. It's about staying mentally fit and fresh at this time of the season. And also, it's one of the most exciting parts of the season. So that gives you a bit of extra energy too. Article Source: IANS

Afghanistan Refugee Womens Cricket Team Set To Embark On Landmark England Tour

The International Cricket Council: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Thursday announced it will host the Afghanistan refugee womens team for a groundbreaking tour of England starting on June 22, with the players also set to attend the ICC Womens T20 World Cup final at Lords on July 5. The itinerary includes highquality training sessions and T20 matches for the side, as per a partnership between the MCC and the MCC Foundation. The tour carries significant cultural and sporting importance, given the exclusion of women from sport in Afghanistan since the Talibans return to power in 2021. More than 20 members of the Afghanistan womens cricket team have resettled in Australia since 2021, and played their first competitive match in Melbourne in January 2025. The Afghanistan womens squad members were also present in India during last years ODI World Cup. Since being displaced from Afghanistan in 2021, these players have shown extraordinary resilience in continuing their cricket journeys, in incredibly challenging circumstances. We have worked with Its Game On to build an itinerary and a set of experiences that we hope will be enjoyable and memorable. We are also delighted that the squad will attend the final of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026. Cricket has a responsibility to stand for inclusion and opportunity, and we are proud to be hosting this tour and supporting the players in deepening their connection to the game, said Clare Connor, ECB Deputy CEO and Managing Director of England Women. The International Cricket Council (ICC) last year announced a dedicated task force to support displaced Afghan female cricketers, assisted by the ECB, Cricket Australia, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). A fund was set up to provide direct monetary assistance, though its longterm future remains uncertain. This tour is a major step forward, but also highlights how much work remains. These players have shown extraordinary courage and commitment to the game, despite everything that has been taken from them. The International Cricket Council (ICC) last year announced a dedicated task force to support displaced Afghan female cricketers, assisted by the ECB, Cricket Australia, and the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). A fund was set up to provide direct monetary assistance, though its longterm future remains uncertain. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Afghanistan remains a full member of the ICC, which requires national boards to field womens teams. The mens side has retained its Test status despite the absence of a womens team. In April, FIFA cleared Afghanistans return to international womens football, a move hailed as a breakthrough for the exiled players. Article Source: IANS

CSK bowl and bring back Gurjapneet, Short for Hosein, Prashant Veer

GT plan to bring in Prasidh Krishna when they bowl, and left out Sai Kishore

IPL 2026: Gurjapneet, Short Included As CSK Elect To Bowl First Against GT; Prasidh Returns

Chennai Super Kings: Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have handed opportunities to Gurjapneet Singh and Matthew Short as captain Ruturaj Gaikwad won the toss and elected to bowl first against Gujarat Titans (GT) in Match 66 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad on Thursday. CSK head into their final league game knowing that a defeat will shut the door on their playoff hopes. Injuries have plagued their campaign, leaving them clinging to slim mathematical chances of entering the last four stage. Though a victory here will not guarantee them a topfour berth, as CSK have to be dependent on other results to go in their favour. After winning the toss, Gaikwad said Gurjapneet and Short are included in place of Akeal Hosein and Prashant Veer. There will be some pace and bounce, and we want to explore it early on. It is about trusting the process, and we didn't get the results our way. We want to keep it simple and turn it around, he said. GT, meanwhile, will be keen to arrest any slide in momentum ahead of the playoffs, and a win over CSK would also strengthen their push for a toptwo finish. Skipper Shubman Gill said pacer Prasidh Krishna replaces R Sai Kishore in their playing eleven when the GT bowling innings comes. We'd have bowled first. Doesn't make a difference as there's not much dew. It's all about keeping the intensity up. Our fielding hasn't been on par in the last couple of seasons. Our bowling has been right up there, and batting has been good too. All three departments need to come together. Just because we have a Q, doesn't mean the job is done. Hope for three more good games, he said. The pitch report by Graeme Swann and Aaron Finch said Thursdays game will be played on a red soil pitch, with square boundaries at 62 and 70 metres respectively, while the ground boundary is at 72 metres. Both opined that the pitch having green grass just tells them that it will hold enough pace in what is expected to be a good batting wicket. Playing XIs: Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Urvil Patel, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Matthew Short, Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Spencer Johnson, Mukesh Choudhary, and Gurjapneet Singh Impact substitutes: Kartik Sharma, Macneil Noronha, Sarfaraz Khan, Kuldip Yadav, and Aman Khan Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Urvil Patel, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Matthew Short, Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Spencer Johnson, Mukesh Choudhary, and Gurjapneet Singh Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Prasidh Krishna, Anuj Rawat, Glenn Phillips, Kulwant Khejroliya, and Kumar Kushagra Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Dont Tag Vaibhav Sooryavanshi As The Next Sachin Tendulkar, Says Dinesh Karthik

Indian Premier League: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik has cautioned against burdening teenage batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi with comparisons to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar, stressing that the youngsters challenges will be unique. Representing the Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, left-handed opener Sooryavanshi has scored 579 runs in 13 matches and is leading the run-scoring charts with a staggering strike rate of 236.32. What Vaibhav is doing is very special, but what I don't want the people to do is tag him as the next Sachin because he is just 15 years old and doing what he is doing. I think what Sachin did was extraordinary. Vaibhav's challenges will be completely different. Sachin's challenges would have been as much on the field as they were off the field, but Vaibhav's challenges will definitely be more off-field, because he possesses a lot of cricketing skills, dealing with everything that comes outside the sport, said Karthik in an upcoming episode of the Quest Talk podcast by iQOO. What Vaibhav is doing is very special, but what I don't want the people to do is tag him as the next Sachin because he is just 15 years old and doing what he is doing. I think what Sachin did was extraordinary. Vaibhav's challenges will be completely different. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The amount of data and matrix used has been quite phenomenal; it's the fastest-growing format that ever existed, and it's a lifestyle provider for a lot of people. And it seems like a very strong career option for any young boy or girl choosing to play the sport. And it's competing with other sports tournaments in the world in a very short period of time, he added. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: RCB Fans Made Me Who I Am Today, Adopted Me As Son Of Their Own Land, Says Dinesh Karthik

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru mentor and batting coach Dinesh Karthik said the franchises supporters had embraced him like one of their own, adding that the bond with the franchises fan base played a critical part in shaping his journey. Karthik represented RCB in IPL 2025, before having his second stint with the side from 2022 to 2024. After ending his IPL playing career, Karthik made a seamless transition to being the sides batting coach and mentor, as RCB won the championship for the first time in 2025. RCB fans made me who I am today. They adopted me as their son from their own land, and I have enjoyed that. One moment I would like to live again is RCB winning the IPL. I think that was a great moment, an iconic moment, said Karthik in an upcoming episode of the Quest Talk podcast by iQOO. Defending champions RCB have already sealed their spot in the IPL 2026 playoffs and are on top of the points table with 18 points from 13 games. When the host suggested it could happen again this year, Karthik replied: Touch wood. Karthik credited the franchises leadership group, which had Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson before Andy Flower and Mo Bobat took over, for building a strong winning culture in the setup. In 2022, Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson did a good job for RCB in picking a fairly balanced team, but we still managed to keep going to the playoffs, but never ended up crossing that line. And then there were two people that RCB bought - Andy Flower and Mo Bobat. Karthik credited the franchises leadership group, which had Sanjay Bangar and Mike Hesson before Andy Flower and Mo Bobat took over, for building a strong winning culture in the setup. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Andy Flower is by far the best coach in the world by a distance. Purely from a results point of view, there is no one even close to him. Mind you, he does everything possible to win. And I'm very proud to say that RCB has a good culture in place and that is reflective of the way we play, of the way we behave, and of the way we prepare, he added. Article Source: IANS

Notts extend Mohammad Ali deal to include T20 Blast

Pakistan seamer comes in on back of successful PSL as replacement for Peter Siddle

'We Want To Make Winning A Habit': Harmanpreet Eyes New Era After Historic ODI WC Triumph

T20 World Cup: Ahead of the Womens T20 World Cup, India captain Harmanpreet Kaur said that the Women in Blue want to make winning a habit after their historic Womens Cricket World Cup 2025 title win. She believes the landmark victory has shifted the teams ambitions from chasing history to building sustained dominance. Indias maiden ICC womens title transformed the mood around the team and intensified expectations ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup in England. But for Kaur, the achievement was only the beginning of a larger journey. Winning that World Cup was a seminal moment for womens cricket in India. It was bigger than one trophy. Most importantly, it brought belief and showed young girls that the highest stage is not out of reach, Kaur wrote in her ICC column. The Womens World Cup 2025 win gave us a massive boost in confidence. However, it was only the beginning. We want to make winning a habit. While the 2025 World Cup win gave us immense joy, it also gave us responsibility. We know expectations will rise, and that brings pressure, of course, but it is a good kind of pressure. It tells you that you have earned something important, and now you have to recreate it again, she mentioned. India head into the tournament after a demanding stretch of international cricket that tested the side across different conditions and situations. They swept Sri Lanka at home, secured a milestone T20I series win in Australia, their first there in ten years, before suffering a difficult series defeat in South Africa. With a tour of England next on the schedule, Kaur believes the experiences have helped sharpen the squad ahead of another global challenge. We would like to carry forward the confidence and belief from that win into the T20 World Cup. We know the standards we want to maintain, and the recent T20I series against Sri Lanka, Australia, and South Africa have helped us test ourselves and given us plenty of learnings, she stated. Kaur acknowledged that success in the T20 format leaves little room for error, particularly in high-pressure ICC tournaments where games can turn within a few deliveries. Winning this tournament would mean a great deal. Every ICC trophy has its own challenges. The format is shorter, the margins are smaller, and the pressure is greater. We will have to be sharper right from the start, and winning the key moments will be crucial, Kaur said. The India skipper also sees the tournament as an opportunity to usher in a more sustained phase of success for the national side. If we win this tournament, it would signal the beginning of a stronger and more consistent era for Indian womens cricket, she added. Indias squad for the marquee event combines established match-winners with emerging names who have rapidly progressed throu gh the domestic system. Four players, Bharti Fulmali, Nandani Sharma, Shree Charani and Kranti Gaud, are set for their maiden ICC Womens T20 World Cup appearances. Kaur credited the rise of the Women's Premier League for expanding Indias talent pool and preparing young players for international pressure, writing, What excites me about this squad is the balance we have. There is talent, fearlessness, and a good mix of experience and youth. A lot of credit goes to the Womens Premier League (WPL). It has unearthed real talent and given players regular exposure to pressure situations, higher standards, and some of the best cricketers in the world. The players have grown in maturity, and the league has helped build a winning mindset. England also remains a deeply emotional venue in Kaurs cricketing journey. Her unforgettable unbeaten 171 against Australia during the 2017 Womens World Cup semifinal remains one of the most iconic innings in the history of the womens game and helped transform public perception of womens cricket in India. My memories of the 2017 World Cup in England are still very fresh. My 171 against Australia changed a lot of things in my life. The teams performance in the tournament was a turning point for Indian womens cricket. Though India fell short in the final that year, Kaur recalled the overwhelming reception the team received after returning home, a sign that the womens game had entered a new phase of recognition and popularity. While we could not cross the finish line in the final, the reception we got from fans and the media on our return home was something special. That campaign made people sit up and take notice. Since then, the womens game has grown a lot, she recalled. Now, nearly a decade later, Kaur believes Indian womens cricket is entering another defining chapter, one built not only on progress, but on consistency and sustained excellence. While we could not cross the finish line in the final, the reception we got from fans and the media on our return home was something special. That campaign made people sit up and take notice. Since then, the womens game has grown a lot, she recalled. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India have been drawn in Group A alongside Australia, Bangladesh, the Netherlands, Pakistan and South Africa. They begin their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan in Birmingham on June 14. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'Watching Narine Trouble Batters Is A Treat,' Says Dasgupta On Eden Gardens Masterclass

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta said watching Sunil Narine trouble batters with his variations is a treat after the veteran spinner played a key role in Kolkata Knight Riders four-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians on Wednesday. Narine delivered a superb spell of 1/13 in four overs on a turning track as KKR restricted the Mumbai Indians to 147/8 before successfully chasing down the target in 18.5 overs to stay alive in the playoff race. Dasgupta praised Narine for exploiting the conditions perfectly and highlighted his deep understanding of the Eden Gardens surface. The extent of turn that Sunil Narine was getting from this Eden Gardens surface was quite sharp. It was good to see him making full use of the favourable conditions. Narine has been playing at this venue since 2012 and knows it very well. Watching him trouble batters with his variations is a treat. The way he brought the ball back into the stumps of Hardik Pandya and clean bowled him was a vintage Sunil Narine delivery, Dasgupta told Jio Hotstar. The former cricketer felt the nature of the surface resembled the spin-friendly Eden Gardens tracks seen during the 2013-14 seasons and noted that rain before the match also contributed to the conditions. This Eden Gardens surface reminded us not of the 2020s but of 2013-14, where the ball used to turn quite a bit. The bit of rain and the covers also played their part, he added. Dasgupta further said Narines economical spell ensured the Mumbai Indians could never build momentum during the middle overs. Returning with an economical spell of 1 for 13 meant that MI could never get going in the middle overs whenever Sunil Narine bowled, he said. Dasgupta further said Narines economical spell ensured the Mumbai Indians could never build momentum during the middle overs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR later completed the chase through crucial contributions from Manish Pandey (45) and Rovman Powell (40) to stay in the playoff contention. Article Source: IANS

'Hallmark Of A Master': Aakash Chopra Lauds Sunil Narine After KKR Keep Playoff Hopes Alive

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India cricketer Aakash Chopra heaped praise on veteran all-rounder Sunil Narine after the spinner once again delivered a match-defining spell in Kolkata Knight Riders crucial four-wicket win over Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026. With their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, KKR produced a disciplined all-round performance at Eden Gardens to stay alive in the race. Narine played a central role in restricting Mumbai to 147/8 on a difficult two-paced surface, finishing with miserly figures of 4-1-13-1 and removing MI skipper Hardik Pandya at a key stage of the innings. Speaking about Narines continued dominance in the IPL, Chopra highlighted the spinners remarkable control over length and trajectory, qualities that have troubled batters for years across conditions and venues. He's brilliant. These are the conditions he relishes, but he's equally effective everywhere he's played this season and in seasons gone by. His length is impeccable. You can't hit him off the back foot. He's flat and slightly quicker through the air, where you can't really step down. You won't see him getting clobbered by people stepping down or hitting off the back foot. He bowls in that five-to-seven-metre mark every time, a very difficult trajectory to pick, Chopra told JioStar. Narine's spell proved especially important after rain interrupted Mumbais innings at 57/4 in eight overs. Following the restart, KKR tightened their grip through spin, with Narine and Varun Chakravarthy squeezing the middle overs and denying Mumbai any momentum. Chopra also praised Narines ability to bounce back immediately even after conceding boundaries, calling it one of the defining traits of elite bowlers. Then he's got the variations and the accuracy. One thing that stands out is that when you hit him for a four or a six, he comes back with an equally effective delivery to follow up. And that's the hallmark of a master, he stated. KKR eventually chased down the target with four wickets in hand, thanks largely to a composed 45 from Manish Pandey and a counterattacking 40 from Rovman Powell. The result kept Kolkata mathematically alive in the playoff race heading into their final league-stage fixture. Chopra also reflected on the wider playoff picture and the pressure on teams still battling for qualification spots. Discussing Punjab Kings and their final league game against Lucknow Super Giants, he said PBKS would continue pushing aggressively despite the odds stacked against them. It's not going to be easy, but they would want to fight and come back into the tournament. You get to 15 points, you improve your net run rate, even if it's ever so slightly. And they play that aggressive brand of cricket, Chopra said. Punjabs qualification chances remain dependent not only on their own result, but also on other outcomes, particularly involving Rajasthan Royals. Chopra pointed out that teams like Punjab, Kolkata and even Chennai Super Kings would all be watching Rajasthans final fixture closely. It's not going to be easy, but they would want to fight and come back into the tournament. You get to 15 points, you improve your net run rate, even if it's ever so slightly. And they play that aggressive brand of cricket, Chopra said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Of course, they'll also have to hope that Rajasthan lose. Punjab, KKR, or even CSK need Rajasthan to lose that last one for their chances to even be entertained, he noted. Article Source: IANS

'Manish Repaid KKRs Faith Brilliantly': Deep Dasgupta

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Deep Dasgupta said veteran batter Manish Pandey repaid Kolkata Knight Riderss faith brilliantly with a composed and impactful innings in the sides four-wicket victory over Mumbai Indians at Eden Gardens. Batting for the first time in the season, Pandey anchored KKRs chase with a steady 45 off 33 balls on a difficult two-paced wicket, while Rovman Powell added a valuable 40 as KKR chased down 148 in 18.5 overs to keep their playoff hopes alive. Dasgupta praised Pandeys calmness and ability to handle pressure during a tense low-scoring chase. Manish Pandey has always had a special ability to contribute with both bat and on the field. He has batted in multiple positions, and at this stage of his career, he knows how to use his experience effectively. That is exactly what he did against Mumbai, he told Jio Hotstar. It was a tricky chase. Low-scoring games are always tense. After losing early wickets in the Powerplay, he could have gone into a shell. But he didnt. He played with positive intent, took calculated risks, hit over the infield, and was brave enough to go aerial when needed, Dasgupta added. He also highlighted the importance of the partnership between Pandey and Powell after KKR stumbled early in the chase. That is why this partnership between Rovman Powell and Manish Pandey was so crucial. Manish was batting for the first time this season, and Rovman has also not had many opportunities to come out and bat. It is good to see them contribute, he said. The former cricketer added that experienced players must justify the confidence shown in them by franchises, and Pandey did exactly that against Mumbai. It is good to see Manish get a game and play an impactful innings. Once you have been part of the IPL for such a long period of time and teams show faith in you, you must repay that faith. Manish did that quite brilliantly against Mumbai, Dasgupta added. Dasgupta further noted that MI were probably 25-30 runs short on a difficult batting surface despite some early breakthroughs by their bowlers. It is good to see Manish get a game and play an impactful innings. Once you have been part of the IPL for such a long period of time and teams show faith in you, you must repay that faith. Manish did that quite brilliantly against Mumbai, Dasgupta added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score KKR eventually completed the chase with four wickets in hand, with Rinku Singh hitting the winning boundary to keep Kolkata alive in the race for the playoffs. Article Source: IANS

Anukul Roy Replaces Harsh Dubey In India 'A' Squad For Sri Lanka Tri-series

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: All-rounder Anukul Roy has been added to the India A squad for the upcoming tri-series against Sri Lanka. The 27-year-old has replaced Harsh Dubey, who has received his maiden call-up to India's Test and ODI squads for the upcoming series against Afghanistan. The tri-series, scheduled to be held from June 9-21 in Dambulla, will also feature hosts Sri Lanka 'A', and Afghanistan 'A'. Tilak Varma has been named the captain of the side, while Riyan Parag is the vice captain of the team. The Mens Selection Committee has added Anukul Roy to the India A squad for the upcoming tri-series in Sri Lanka. He replaces Harsh Dubey, who has received his maiden call-up to Indias Test and ODI squads for the upcoming First Bank home series against Afghanistan, BCCI said in a release. Anukul first made his mark as the joint-highest wicket-taker in Indias victorious ICC Mens U19 World Cup campaign in 2018, claiming 14 wickets with his left-arm spin. Mumbai Indians signed him for Rs 20 Lakh the same year, but he featured in just one game across four seasons. Even so, he made his presence felt in the field and was regularly used by MI as a substitute fielder. Kolkata Knight Riders then secured him for Rs 20 Lakh at the 2022 auction, and he has remained with the franchise since. Anukul has provided a crucial contribution to KKR in IPL 2026. He has taken eight wickets and also scored 43 runs. His performance was clinical in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025, where he was the third-highest run-scorer. He amassed 303 runs in 10 innings at an average of 60.60 and a strike rate of 160.31, playing several match-winning cameos in Jharkhands title run. India 'A' will begin their campaign against Sri Lanka 'A' on June 9, followed by a clash against Afghanistan 'A' on June 11. The round-robin stage continues until June 19, with the final scheduled to be played on June 21. The squad also includes Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, and Vipraj Nigam. Prabhsimran Singh and Kumar Kushagra have been named as wicketkeepers, while Suryansh Shedge, Yash Thakur, Yudhvir Singh, Anshul Kamboj, the third highest wicket-taker with 19 scalps, and Arshad Khan will handle the fast bowling department. 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has also been added to the squad for the first time. India 'A' will begin their campaign against Sri Lanka 'A' on June 9, followed by a clash against Afghanistan 'A' on June 11. The round-robin stage continues until June 19, with the final scheduled to be played on June 21. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Tilak Varma (Captain), Priyansh Arya, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Riyan Parag (Vice-Captain), Ayush Badoni, Nishant Sindhu, Suryansh Shedge, Prabhsimran Singh (WK), Kumar Kushagra (WK), Vipraj Nigam, Yash Thakur, Yudhvir Singh, Anshul Kamboj, Arshad Khan, Anukul Roy. Article Source: IANS

'MI Focused On 40 Overs Of Quality Cricket, Not The Points Table': Mhambrey

Kolkata Knight Riders: Mumbai Indians (MI) bowling coach Paras Mhambrey said the side remains focused on playing quality 40 overs of cricket and learning from mistakes after suffering a four-wicket loss to Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. Mumbai Indians, who had already been eliminated from the playoff race before the match, slumped to their ninth defeat in 13 matches this season and remained ninth on the points table with eight points. Reflecting on the campaign, Mhambrey said the teams focus throughout the tournament had been on finding ways to win matches and improving as a unit. Our preparation is simple: look at winning the games. Thats what weve been doing, Mhambrey said said in a post-match presser. The focus on this game, as well as earlier games, is winning. And we want to look back and say: how do you work around constructing a team, what are the things that we need to learn from this game and take it to the next game, which allows us to win a game? Mhambrey believes that while outside results and points-table changes often create discussions, the team's priority remained executing its plans properly on the field. We can only control what we can control, and what we can control is going out there and playing quality 40 overs of cricket and winning the game, and leave the results or the positions in the table for someone else to look into, headed. Mumbais fielding errors also proved costly during the chase, including a dropped catch of Rovman Powell. However, Mhambrey defended his players and said such mistakes are part of the game. No one does it on purpose. You drop catches. It just happens, part of the game. Yes, if you look at it in hindsight and say that catch at that stage would have been 15 or 20 runs extra, yeah. But Im not going to blame anyone out here. Mumbais fielding errors also proved costly during the chase, including a dropped catch of Rovman Powell. However, Mhambrey defended his players and said such mistakes are part of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If you look at Corbin, he took a brilliant catch. So you compensate it for that, right? Mhambrey said. Article Source: IANS

Duleep Trophy to kick off Indian domestic season; two-phase Ranji Trophy starts October 11

The first part of the Ranji Trophy will be played between October and November, and the second phase between January and February

'A form team is always dangerous' - KKR rise from the ashes

They have got their combinations right, they have played to their strengths, Abhinav Mukund says about KKR's stunning turnaround in IPL 2026

'I Was Padded Up For Four Games Waiting For My Chance,': Manish Pandey

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) batter Manish Pandey revealed that he stayed prepared and waited for his chance in the last four games before the opportunity finally arrived to deliver a crucial innings as the three -time winner defeated Mumbai Indians by four wickets at Eden Gardens. Pandey played a composed knock of 45 off 33 balls on a difficult two-paced surface as KKR chased down 148 in 18.5 overs to keep their playoff hopes alive. He also stitched crucial partnerships with skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Rovman Powell during the tense chase. Speaking after the match, Pandey said he remained mentally prepared despite spending the previous four games waiting on the sidelines as he was placed down in the order. Great opportunity for me, as you rightly said. For four games, I was padded up, waiting for my chances. But I think the way we batted the last four games was unbelievable, and you kept on pushing me down the order. Thats completely fine, he told Abhishek Nayar in a video released by IPL on X. As we say, we keep changing, we use the opportunity left, right, and middle. Thats the game plan. When I was told I was batting at number three, I started preparing myself as soon as I was coming out of the ground, he added. Pandey credited Rahanes guidance during the chase and highlighted the importance of building partnerships on a challenging wicket. Talking to Ajju (Ajinkya Rahane), he kept telling me about having a small partnership and watching the ball closely. Thats what I did. The partnership between me and Ajju and then me and Rovman was really crucial. It took us to the stage where 25 were needed off the last 25 balls, he added. Pandey further spoke about his preparation and the importance of trusting the process despite limited opportunities earlier in the season. Its an everyday process. Preparing for IPL, youre coming after the domestic season. For me, it was about working on fitness and spending time on the wicket. I was preparing for a long time for this tournament, he said. Pandey further spoke about his preparation and the importance of trusting the process despite limited opportunities earlier in the season. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, KKRs bowlers restricted the Mumbai Indians to 147/8, with Cameron Green and Saurabh Dubey picking up two wickets each. Powell later added a quickfire 40 before Rinku sealed the chase with a boundary as KKR stayed alive in the race for the playoffs. Article Source: IANS

Mhambrey won't throw Chahar 'under the train' for catching mishaps

What we can control is going out there and playing quality 40 hours of cricket, Paras Mhambrey says about Mumbai Indians' motivation with the season having gone bust

MI Skipper Hardik Penalised For IPL Code Of Conduct Breach

Kolkata Knight Riders: Mumbai Indians skipper Hardik Pandya has been fined 10 per cent of his match fee and also accumulated one Demerit Point for breaching Level 1 of the IPLs Code of Conduct for Players and Team Officials during the IPL 2026 match against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Hardik Pandya was found to have breached Article 2.2 of the IPLs Code of Conduct, which pertains to 'abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings' during a match, the IPL said in a statement. The incident occurred on the 4th ball of the 10th over of the second innings of the match, when Hardik, while walking back to his run-up, knocked the bails of the wicket with force. Hardik Pandya admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction imposed by Match Referee - Rajiv Seth, it added. Already eliminated from the playoffs race, MI suffered a four-wicket loss at the hands of KKR. KKR seamers Cameron Green and Saurabh Dubey took out two MI batters each in the powerplay before their spin twins turned the screw in on a pitch with both seam movement and turna srhe visitors were restricted to 147/8. On a surface that offered considerable assistance to both seamers and spinners, the hosts expertly chased down a tricky target of 148 with seven deliveries to spare thanks to an invaluable partnership between Manish Pandey and Rovman Powell while consigning the MI to another difficult defeat. I think we lost a lot of wickets in powerplay, but if Tilak and would have stayed longer, and we had stitched a couple of more partnerships and got those 15-20 runs, I think we would have had a decent chance. To be very honest, I don't mind playing on this sort of wickets where bowlers have something to do. On a surface that offered considerable assistance to both seamers and spinners, the hosts expertly chased down a tricky target of 148 with seven deliveries to spare thanks to an invaluable partnership between Manish Pandey and Rovman Powell while consigning the MI to another difficult defeat. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The result has catapulted KKR to sixth on the points table, keeping their playoff aspirations firmly alive. Article Source: IANS

Watson lauds injured Varun's 'desperation to play for KKR'

Angkrish Raghuvanshi ended up having some neck pain, a bit of dizziness and a headache after his collision with Varun Chakravarthy, Shane Watson says

Gaby Lewis to lead Ireland at T20 World Cup

Orla Prendergast, the vice-captain for the T20 World Cup, will lead Ireland in a tri-series against Pakistan and West Indies before the big tournament as Gaby Lewis recovers from a leg injury

Darren Gough says Brendon McCullum very lucky to keep England job after Ashes disaster

Former England fast bowler Darren Gough believes England coach Brendon McCullum was very lucky to remain in post after England's Ashes flop as he expressed his hurt at being overlooked for the role of national selector. Gough, who took 467 international wickets, previously worked as Yorkshire's managing director of cricket but lost out to Marcus North in the race to become the new national selector. Gough, 55, believes a key aspect of the role is to challenge the current England management, all of whom were retained despite a 4-1 Ashes series loss in Australia in 2025/26. McCullum and red-ball captain Ben Stokes have retained their positions ahead of an upcoming three-Test series at home to New Zealand. I think Baz McCullum is realistically very lucky to carry on as England's head coach, he told The Overlap's Stick to Cricket show. If you're not winning games your job is going to come under scrutiny. It's a four-year cycle, so if you go to Australia on the fourth year of it and you win, or you get really close, you can say there's been a big change and let's give it another couple of years. It didn't happen but I wish them the best of luck. I like the way they play but it needs toning down a bit. We need a bit of steel and I'd like to think we'll see that this summer. Gough, asked if New Zealander McCullum would face increased scrutiny this season, added: Absolutely. They're under pressure and they should be, I don't think there's any doubt about that. As for his failure to become England's new national selector, with the England and Wales Cricket Board preferring former Australia bastman North, a frustrated Gough said: I was disheartened. I'll be honest, it did hurt me. I could have challenged them in the right areas. I'm mature now, I'm not like I was 10 years ago, a hothead. I've mellowed a lot, I've managed people. Also Read: Live Cricket Score My honest opinion was, if they went down the route of someone who'd played for England, who has done all the roles in the game, I might just get this.

Kartik Tyagi rises to fifth on IPL 2026 Purple Cap table

With Angkrish Raghuvanshi out with concussion and Ryan Rickelton having a poor outing, nothing much changed on the IPL 2026 Orange Cap table

Hardik: 'We would've had a chance had Tilak or I stayed longer'

MI captain pointed to dropped chances at crucial junctures as another reason for their loss in Kolkata

KKR keep their IPL campaign alive with low-scoring win

KKR remain in contention for the playoffs but need other results to go their way

IPL 2026: Ramandeep Singh Replaces Injured Raghuvanshi As Concussion Substitute

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders had to make a concussion substitution during their important match in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Mumbai Indians after in-form batter and stand-in wicketkeeper Angkrish Raghuvanshi injured his hand in a field collision. KKR replaced Raghuvanshi with Ramandeep Singh for the run chase in match 65 on Wednesday. Ramandeep Singh has replaced Angkrish Raghuvanshi as a concussion substitute, KKR posted on X. The incident happened during the 11th over of the Mumbai Indians' innings at Eden Gardens. Tilak Varma top-edged a delivery from spinner Varun Chakaravarthy high into the air. Both Raghuvanshi and Chakaravarthy ran for the catch and collided awkwardly, which allowed Tilak to escape. Raghuvanshi seemed to hurt his hand and left the field shortly after. Initially, KKR put Tejasvi Singh in as the substitute wicketkeeper for the rest of the innings. They later officially named Ramandeep as the concussion replacement during the chase. The incident happened during the 11th over of the Mumbai Indians' innings at Eden Gardens. Tilak Varma top-edged a delivery from spinner Varun Chakaravarthy high into the air. Both Raghuvanshi and Chakaravarthy ran for the catch and collided awkwardly, which allowed Tilak to escape. Raghuvanshi seemed to hurt his hand and left the field shortly after. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ramandeep has had a tough time finding consistency this season. Before losing his spot in the XI last month, the all-rounder scored only 82 runs in six innings. As the tournament reaches its final stages, KKR hopes Raghuvanshi's injury is not serious enough to keep one of their key players sidelined. Article Source: IANS

England bowl first as New Zealand experiment with Bates at No.9

Absences force hosts into changes, with Sophia Dunkley and Alice Capsey set to open the batting

IPL 2026: Clinical Bowling Led By Green, Saurabh And Narine Help KKR Restrict MI To 147/8

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) produced a clinical bowling performance led by the early strikes of Cameron Green and Saurabh Dubey before the spin duo of Sunil Narine and Varun Chakravarthy tightened the screws to leave Mumbai Indians (MI) struggling at 147/8 in 20 overs in Match 65 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday. Asked to bat first, the Mumbai Indians could not recover from a terrible start on a challenging two-paced pitch. Ryan Rickelton (6), after surviving the opening overs, edged Anukul Roy's delivery to point, where Manish Pandey made a fantastic, swirling catch. Green took control of the game with a powerful spell of seam bowling. The Australian dismissed Naman Dhir for a three-ball duck with a classic outswinger that caught the edge after repeatedly beating the batter outside off stump. Mumbai fell to 17/2 in three overs. The pressure increased when Rohit Sharma (15) misplayed a slot ball from Saurabh Dubey towards deep midwicket. Green ran 33 meters from mid-on and completed a stunning over-the-shoulder catch while avoiding a collision with Rovman Powell, leaving MI at 24/3 in four overs. Dubey continued to trouble Mumbais batters, although Suryakumar Yadav (15) briefly fought back with a trademark pickup six. The left-arm pacer then adjusted his angle and induced a thick inside edge from Suryakumar, who got out as Mumbai finished the powerplay at 46/4. Dubey's opening figures were 3-0-22-2. Then, a sudden rain interruption stopped play with Mumbai at 57/4 after eight overs. However, KKRs spinners maintained their grip after the game resumed. Sunil Narine, using a sharp turn and grip from the pitch, completely restricted the middle order. Tilak Varma struggled against the veteran spinner, who operated with a slip and short leg for Hardik Pandya, benefiting from significant pitch assistance. Narine allowed only six runs in his first two overs, leaving MI at a slow 64/4 after 10 overs. Varun Chakravarthy, despite dealing with a small hairline fracture on his foot, also bowled effectively, conceding just four runs in his first over after the break. The mystery spinner finished with figures of 4-0-28-0 before Finn Allen took over as the Impact Player. Tilak faced a scare when Varun dropped a high catch after almost colliding with substitute wicketkeeper Angkrish Raghuvanshi, who hurt his hand and had to leave the field. However, KKR quickly regained the upper hand as Kartik Tyagi dismissed Tilak, who managed only 20 runs off 32 balls, despite the short boundary on the leg side. Hardik Pandya tried to rebuild alongside Will Jacks but never seemed comfortable against Narines variations. The off-spinner eventually broke through Hardiks defence with a sharp offbreak at 94kph, getting the MI captain out for 26 off 27 balls. Narine finished with excellent figures of 4-1-13-1. Will Jacks run-out for 13 added to Mumbais woes, as Corbin Bosch sent him back while trying for a risky second run. Bosch and Deepak Chahar then collected nine runs in Tyagis second last and 13 of Saurabhs last, courtesy of back-to-back boundaries from Chahar. Bosch then delivered back-to-back maximums of Tyagis last, followed by a boundary as visitors grabbed 52 runs of the last four overs, only to reach 147/8 in 20 overs. Will Jacks run-out for 13 added to Mumbais woes, as Corbin Bosch sent him back while trying for a risky second run. Bosch and Deepak Chahar then collected nine runs in Tyagis second last and 13 of Saurabhs last, courtesy of back-to-back boundaries from Chahar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mumbai Indians 147/8 in 20 overs (Corbin Bosch 32 not out, Hardik Pandya 26; Cameron Green 2-23, Saurabh Debey 2-34) against Kolkata Knight Riders. Article Source: IANS

Sasikumar enters the last eight

Titans eye top two finish as they face a CSK team living on a prayer

MS Dhoni has gone back home to Ranchi but will join CSK if they make the playoffs

David Payne out of Gloucestershire Blast campaign due to ankle surgery

Left-arm seamer suffered injury during short-lived IPL stint

Amelia Kerr Backs New Zealand To Defend Womens T20 World Cup Crown In England

T20 World Cup: New Zealand skipper Amelia Kerr has expressed confidence that the White Ferns can retain their ICC Womens T20 World Cup title in England next month, citing improved squad depth and belief gained from their 2024 triumph in the UAE. The mega event happening from June 12 to July 5 is the first time Amelia will lead the side after taking over from long-time skipper and 2024 Womens T20 World Cup winning captain Sophie Devine. Becoming championstwo years ago was an incredible achievement, and it has given us belief as we look to do it again. Right now, I dont know if our status as reigning champions means there's greater pressure on us or not. Its not really something we are thinking too much about. Ultimately, we've done it before, and we know we are capable of doing it, so the main factor is that belief. In the two years since we lifted the trophy, our depth has improved. The most pleasing thing of late is that when we have been successful, it has involved different players stepping up at different times. Izzy Gaze has done so in a few games, Rosemary Mair got a five-for recently against South Africa, there are so many different players putting their hands up and putting in significant performances for their country, wrote Amelia in her column for the ICC on Wednesday. Amelia herself has been in prolific form, scoring 276 runs in the home T20I series against South Africa and extending a record streak of 11 consecutive 30plus scores in the shortest format, apart from being the top-ranked all-rounder in the womens T20I rankings. On a personal note, Ive really enjoyed captaining since coming into the role earlier this year. Ive always loved thinking about the game, so I'm enjoying the tactical side of it as well as the off-field elements, such as how to get the best out of the people around you. It's a pleasure to lead this group, and I want to lead from the front, step up and take responsibility. Cricket is a fickle game, and it doesnt always happen as you want it to, but I have a desire to be the best I can be, and I know if I am, it'll help the team. My form has been good, and I am trying to cash in when that is the case, while not trying to get too low if its not so good. You are only ever one innings or one good ball away from being back in the game and impacting games of cricket, she added. Amelia also acknowledged the impending retirements of Sophie, Suzie Bates, and Lea Tahuhu, as well as newcomers Nensi Patel and Izzy Sharp, making their tournament debuts. I remember my first World Cup for New Zealand was in the UK in 2017, and this year, Nensi (Patel) and Izzy Sharp are appearing at their first one, which is such a special opportunity for them. At the same time, as ever in professional sport, you have players coming in and others leaving the game. In our case, we have three of the greats leaving the group after this competition in the form of Sophie (Devine), Suzie (Bates), and Lea (Tahuhu). When you are talking about the greats of New Zealand cricket, there are three names that will always be thrown around. For them, there will be emotions around that; they have all had really long careers, but hopefully they can go out there and enjoy it. Winning and success help, but in terms of what we can control off the field, hopefully we can make it a really special last tour for them, she added. Looking ahead, Amelia said preparation via white-ball series against England will be vital before the World Cup, where New Zealand are in Group 2 alongside England, Ireland, Scotland, Sri Lanka, and the West Indies. Playing England in ODIs and T20Is in the run-up is a great way to prepare for the World Cup. For us, playing cricket is the best practice. We have come off our home summer, where we've played a lot of cricket, we had a couple of really good series against Zimbabwe and South Africa, and we're looking to do the same against England. The more you play, the more learning opportunities there are. It is about learning, growing, getting better in each game we play, and building confidence in our strengths and what we do well. If we have a strengths-based approach and nail the things we do really well, we have a good chance of winning the World Cup. Playing England in ODIs and T20Is in the run-up is a great way to prepare for the World Cup. For us, playing cricket is the best practice. We have come off our home summer, where we've played a lot of cricket, we had a couple of really good series against Zimbabwe and South Africa, and we're looking to do the same against England. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hopefully, it inspired more kids boys and girls to get involved in cricket in New Zealand. I would love to see cricket become the number one sport in New Zealand one day, and if youve got the BLACKCAPS and WHITE FERNS going well, that really helps the grassroots game as well. Kids look up to BLACKCAPS and WHITE FERNS players as role models. If they want to be like them, they'll pick up a cricket bat and ball, she concluded. Article Source: IANS

Gough Believes McCullum very Lucky To Keep England Coach Job, Admits Hurt Over Selector Snub

Wales Cricket Board: Former England fast bowler Darren Gough has said head coach Brendon McCullum was very lucky to retain his job as the head coach after the 4-1 debacle in the Ashes, while admitting he was disheartened on missing out on the role of national selector. Gough, who claimed 467 international wickets and previously served as Yorkshires managing director of cricket, missed out on becoming Englands new national selector, with the role going to former Australia batter Marcus North. North, who played 21 Tests for Australia, was appointed to the role by Rob Key, managing director of mens cricket at the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), ahead of other candidates, including Gough and Steven Finn, as the replacement for Luke Wright. I think Baz McCullum is realistically very lucky to carry on as Englands head coach. If youre not winning games, your job is going to come under scrutiny. Its a fouryear cycle, so if you go to Australia on the fourth year of it and you win, or you get really close, you can say theres been a big change, and lets give it another couple of years. It didnt happen, but I wish them the best of luck. I like the way they play, but it needs to be toned down a bit. We need a bit of steel, and Id like to think well see that this summer, Gough told The Overlaps Stick to Cricket show. Asked if McCullum, the former New Zealand skipper, would face increased scrutiny this season, Gough replied in the affirmative. Absolutely. Theyre under pressure, and they should be, I dont think theres any doubt about that. Quizzed on sadness over losing out to North in the race to be Englands chief selector, Gough stated, I was disheartened. Ill be honest, it did hurt me. I could have challenged them in the right areas. Im mature now, Im not like I was 10 years ago, a hothead. Ive mellowed a lot, and Ive managed people. My honest opinion was, if they went down the route of someone whod played for England, who has done all the roles in the game, I might just get this. This is a hard role because there are a lot of repair jobs to be done. Quizzed on sadness over losing out to North in the race to be Englands chief selector, Gough stated, I was disheartened. Ill be honest, it did hurt me. I could have challenged them in the right areas. Im mature now, Im not like I was 10 years ago, a hothead. Ive mellowed a lot, and Ive managed people. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He's Australian that's not a safer option, is it? Key didn't think I'd enjoy the role, which I didn't agree with either, because I wouldn't have gone for that role. I love the sport, and I'm into data and writing. I write a lot and watch a lot of cricket. I think it's because he's the director of cricket at Durham. I would say as director of cricket at Durham, he doesn't watch as much cricket as he probably should. Article Source: IANS

KKR opt to bowl; Hardik and Suryakumar return for MI

KKR bring Rovman Powell in place of Pathirana

IPL 2026: Rohit, Pandya Come In For MI As KKR Elect To Bowl In Must-win Clash

Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders won the toss and elected to bowl against Mumbai Indians in the 65th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on Wednesday. With both captains suggesting the surface at the Wankhede had a bit of uncertainty around it after spending time under covers. KKR captain Ajinkya Rahane admitted his side was in a must-win situation but stressed the importance of staying present rather than looking too far ahead. Need to win two out of two, but staying in the moment is important, Rahane said, adding that the pitch was difficult to read at first glance. Pandya revealed he would have preferred to bowl first as well, pointing to the conditions and the nature of the wicket. Looks like a track thats been under the covers, he said, while also underlining MIs confidence despite the pressure phase of the tournament. MI has a long history of winning titles; we want to keep our heads high. The MI skipper also confirmed his own return to the XI along with Afghanistan spinner Allah Ghazanfar, while Suryakumar Yadav was also available and part of the playing XI. Kolkata Knight Riders made one change to their XI, bringing in Rovman Powell in place of Finn Allen as they looked to strengthen their middle-order power-hitting. Mumbai Indians, meanwhile, welcomed back a host of senior stars, with Rohit Sharma, Suryakumar Yadav, and skipper Hardik Pandya all returning to the playing XI. Making way were Sherfane Rutherford, Raj Angad Bawa, and Shardul Thakur. Playing XIs: Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (c), Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Raghu Sharma Impact substitutes: Allah Ghazanfar, Krish Bhagat, Shardul Thakur, Robin Minz, Mayank Rawat Mumbai Indians: Rohit Sharma, Ryan Rickelton (wk), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya (c), Will Jacks, Corbin Bosch, Deepak Chahar, Jasprit Bumrah, Raghu Sharma Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Finn Allen, Vaibhav Arora, Ramandeep Singh, Rahul Tripathi, Tejasvi Singh Article Source: IANS

'It Was For My Mother': Sooryavanshi Reveals Reason Behind Unique Half-century Celebration Vs LSG

Lucknow Super Giants: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi revealed that the special hand gesture he made after reaching his half-century during Rajasthan Royals thrilling seven-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants was dedicated to his mother, saying the emotional celebration was personal because her name starts with the letter A. The young opener played one of the finest knocks of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, smashing a breathtaking 93 off just 38 balls to power RR to a stunning chase of 221 at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium. His innings, laced with 10 sixes, helped keep RR alive in the playoff race. Speaking after the match, Sooryavanshi finally explained the meaning behind the now-viral celebration he made after completing his fifty. I dedicated it to my mother. I didnt want to tell everyone because this is personal. Actually, it was for her. Her name starts with A, so I made it, he said in a video released by Rajasthan Royals on X. The youngster also admitted that he felt pressure early in the chase after a slow start, but said advice from opening partner Yashasvi Jaiswal helped him stay calm. When I got 2-3 balls, I started feeling a bit of pressure. But Yashasvi Bhaiya said, You play 10 overs. Till then, they will be on the back foot. You dont take tension in the game. The score can be covered at any time, Sooryavanshi said. Despite his aggressive reputation, the left-hander looked unusually composed during the chase and said it was a conscious decision because of the importance of the match. It was a very important game. It was a challenge for the team. I wanted to keep playing until the game was over. Otherwise, the game would have been over earlier. But I will try to finish the game next time as well with this mindset, he said. Sooryavanshi also revealed a conversation he had with RR coach Kumar Sangakkara before the chase, saying he could sense pressure in the dressing room after the teams recent defeats. We were not doing well in the last three matches. Even today, when the score was 220, I could see he was under tension. But I was confident that if I backed my game, it would be done, he said. Despite his aggressive reputation, the left-hander looked unusually composed during the chase and said it was a conscious decision because of the importance of the match. It was a very important game. It was a challenge for the team. I wanted to keep playing until the game was over. Otherwise, the game would have been over earlier. But I will try to finish the game next time as well with this mindset, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, Mitchell Marsh smashed 96 while Josh Inglis made 60 to help LSG post 220/5 in 20 overs. In reply, RR chased down the target in 19.1 overs with Dhruv Jurel remaining unbeaten on 53. Article Source: IANS

Mohammed Shami Acquitted In Cheque Bounce Case Filed By Estranged Wife

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Indian cricketer Mohammed Shami has been acquitted by the Alipore Court in a cheque bounce case filed by his estranged wife, Hasin Jahan. Jahan had alleged that a Rs 1 lakh cheque issued by Shami towards household expenses had bounced. Delivering its verdict on Wednesday, the court acquitted Mohammed Shami of all charges. Speaking to IANS, Shamis advocate, Salim Rahman, said, Cricketer Mohammed Shami has been acquitted in the four-year-old case which was filed by his wife. He said the matter was heard at the Chief Judicial Magistrates court in Alipore on Wednesday, where Shami was cleared of all charges. It may be noted that, in 2018, Hasin Jahan alleged that Shami had issued her a cheque worth Rs 1 lakh towards household expenses, which later bounced after being deposited in a bank. She later approached the court and filed a case against Shami. In addition to this case, she also filed multiple complaints against Shami and his family members. On Wednesday, Shami appeared in court. Speaking to the media after the verdict, he said he knew it would go in his favour because he had done nothing wrong. I have paid every rupee that I was required to pay. Whether on or off the field, I always strive to handle every situation to the best of my ability, he said. Shami is currently representing Lucknow Super Giants in the Indian Premier League but has remained in the headlines in recent years due to ongoing personal and legal disputes with his estranged wife. The legal battle between Shami and Hasin Jahan over maintenance and alimony is still ongoing. Under directions from the Calcutta High Court, Shami currently pays Rs 1.5 lakh per month to Hasin Jahan and Rs 2.5 lakh towards the care and upbringing of their daughter. Hasin Jahan later moved to the Supreme Court, arguing that the amount was insufficient to meet household expenses. Under directions from the Calcutta High Court, Shami currently pays Rs 1.5 lakh per month to Hasin Jahan and Rs 2.5 lakh towards the care and upbringing of their daughter. Also Read: Live Cricket Score During proceedings, the court also questioned whether Rs 4 lakh per month was inadequate for the upkeep of a mother and daughter. Article Source: IANS

GT vs CSK Match 66, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

GT vs CSK Match 66 , Cricket Tips :Gujarat Titans have made it to the playoffs after some good performances in the second half of the group stage. They will now be playing their final group game against Chennai Super Kings. This contest will begin at 7:30 PM IST on Thursday at Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. GT can secure a place in the top two after winning this game. That is what they will aim at. Their win also means that CSK will be knocked out. Ruturaj Gaikwad & co. have 12 points after two consecutive defeats. Their qualification chances are very low, but to stand a chance, they need to win this game by a big margin. GT vs CSK: Match Details Date : May 21, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad GT vs CSK Live Streaming Details The live action of the GT vs CSK contest will be live on the Star Sports networks in India. Fans can also access the live stream of the game through the Jio Hotstar app or website. GT vs CSK Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 09 GT : 05 CSK : 04 No - Result : 00 GT vs CSK: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Ahmedabad is good for batting. The wicket is flat and has good bounce. Early on, the fast bowlers can extract good assistance from the wicket. Spinners will be in the game in the lateral stages. The best time to bowl is in the first innings. GT vs CSK Possible XIs GT : Shubman Gill (c), Sai Sudharsan, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Nishant Sindhu, Jason Holder, Rashid Khan, Kagiso Rabada, Arshad Khan, R. Sai Kishore, Mohammed Siraj CSK : Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Sanju Samson (wk), Kartik Sharma, Urvil Patel, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, Akeal Hosein, Prashant Veer, Noor Ahmad, Anshul Kamboj, Spencer Johnson GT vs CSK Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Sanju Samson and Sai Sudharsan are two players to watch out for. These two have a great record against these opponents. Probable Best Bowler Kagiso Rabada is in excellent form and will be a tough bowler to face. For CSK, the role of Noor Ahmad will be key, because he has played for GT in Ahmedabad and knows this venue. Today Match Prediction : CSK will be under pressure, and their form has also dipped. Meanwhile, GT are in excellent shape and will be the favorite to win this game. GT vs CSK Match 66, IPL 2026, Today 2026 Match, GT vs CSK 2026 Prediction, GT vs CSK Predicted XIs, Injury Update for GT vs CSK Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions 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.

Indian U19 Men's Team To Tour Sri Lanka For Three Onedayers, Two Fourday Matches In July

Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium: The Indian mens U19 team will tour Sri Lanka in July 2026 for a bilateral series comprising three oneday matches and two fourday games, said Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) on Wednesday. The India U19 mens squad will arrive in Sri Lanka on June 30, with the tour beginning on July 4 with the first 50-over game to be played at the Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium (MRICS) in Hambantota. It is followed by the second and third games at the same venue on July 6 and 9, respectively. The longer format contests will then take centre stage, with the first fourday game scheduled to be played from July 1316 at the Galle International Cricket Stadium (GICS). The second fourday match will be played from July 2023 at the R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium (RPICS) in Colombo. The series is expected to provide valuable exposure to the next generation of cricketers from both countries, especially with India coming in as the winners of this years Mens U19 World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia. After this, the India U19 mens team will host Australia for a threematch oneday series in Rajkot on September 18, 21, and 23, before shifting focus to the longer format with two fourday games starting on September 27 in Rajkot and October 5 in Ahmedabad. The series is expected to provide valuable exposure to the next generation of cricketers from both countries, especially with India coming in as the winners of this years Mens U19 World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sooryavanshi, who is currently playing for Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026 and will be playing for India A in the 50-over tri-series happening in Sri Lanka from June 9-21, was adjudged Player of the Final and Player of the Tournament in India's winning Mens U19 World Cup for a record sixth time. Article Source: IANS

U23 One-day Tournament Converted To T20, CK Nayudu Winners Vs Rest Of India Fixture Reinstated In 2026/27 Season

The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: The upcoming 2026/27 domestic season will see the U23 mens oneday tournament replaced by the T20 format, while the Col. C.K. Nayudu Trophy winners vs Rest of India match returns to the domestic season calendar, said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Wednesday. The 202627 domestic season will feature 1,788 matches across mens and womens cricket in multiple agegroup categories. The season will begin with the prestigious Duleep Trophy from August 23 to September 10, to be played at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. It is followed by the Irani Cup, starting on October 1 and likely to be played in either Jammu or Srinagar, due to Jammu & Kashmir being the current holders of the Ranji Trophy, which they won earlier this year in Hubbali. The Ranji Trophy will continue in a twophase format, with the Elite Group comprising 32 teams across four groups and the Plate Group featuring six sides in the usual home-and-away format. The Col. C.K. Nayudu Trophy Winners vs Rest of India fixture will return from October 14, providing a platform for emerging U23 cricketers to have more red-ball cricket under their belt. Apart from the Mens U23 State A Trophy converted to T20s, the Vizzy Trophy will also be played from T20s, instead of being a oneday competition. The knockout stages of the Cooch Behar Trophy (Elite Group) will be staged in Bengaluru and Mysuru to ensure competitive balance during the January window. The Vijay Merchant Trophy (U16) has been advanced to NovemberJanuary for improved scheduling and player preparation. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Elite Group league games will happen from September 27 to October 10 in Visakhapatnam, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Mohali, with knockouts to happen from October 14-25 in Nagpur. The Plate Group league phase will happen from September 27 to October 6, with knockouts to take place from October 8-10 in Dimapur. The league phase of the Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite Group will be held from November 12 to December 1 in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Ranchi, and Rajkot, with knockouts to be played from December 5-17 in Visakhapatnam. The Plate Group league phase will happen from November 12-12, with knockouts to happen from November 23-25 in Indore. The womens domestic season will begin with the Senior Womens T20 Trophy (Elite), set to run from October 26 to November 6 in Lucknow, Pune, New Delhi, and Mohali, with knockouts to be held from November 1420 in Ahmedabad, while the plate group games and knockouts will be held in Dimapur from October 26 to November 4. The Senior Womens One Day Trophy (Elite) is scheduled to be held from December 1931 in Cuttack, Jaipur, Baroda, and Raipur, followed by knockouts from January 410, 2027, in Chennai. The Senior Womens Interzonal multiday competition will be played from March 1328, 2027, in Dehradun. At the U23 level, the Womens T20 Trophy (Elite) will be held from November 1421, with knockouts from November 25December 1. The Senior Womens One Day Trophy (Elite) is scheduled to be held from December 1931 in Cuttack, Jaipur, Baroda, and Raipur, followed by knockouts from January 410, 2027, in Chennai. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 2026-27 domestic season reflects the BCCIs continued commitment to building a strong and competitive domestic structure while ensuring a balanced progression across formats and categories, further said the BCCI. Article Source: IANS

CSA squeeze out home fans with ticket sales for New Year's Test

Thirty-nine percent of seats for the SA vs England game allocated to fans who purchase packages from tour groups like the Barmy Army

Lewis To Lead Ireland In Womens T20 WC; To Skip Preceding Tri-series For Injury Recovery

T20 World Cup Global Qualifier: Gaby Lewis will captain Ireland in the upcoming ICC Womens T20 World Cup in England, set to happen from June 12 to July 5. But Gaby will miss the preceding triseries against Pakistan and West Indies in Clontarf as she continues her recovery from a leg injury. Cricket Ireland also said Orla Prendergast, ranked seventh among womens T20I allrounders, will lead the side in the triseries before resuming her role as vicecaptain at the T20 World Cup. Gaby finished as the top run-getter in the ICC Womens T20 World Cup Global Qualifier by amassing 276 runs in seven matches and it will be the first time she will captain Ireland in the T20 World Cup. Ireland, currently ninth in the ICC women T20I rankings, have been drawn in Group 2 alongside England, New Zealand, Sri Lanka, West Indies, and Scotland. Group 1 features Australia, South Africa, India, Pakistan, the Netherlands and Bangladesh. The top two teams from each group will qualify for the semifinals. The 15member World Cup squad also includes Laura Delany, Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul and Rebecca Stokell. Cricket Ireland also confirmed that Jane Maguire has been ruled out of both events due to an injury, while Aimee Maguire has returned to fitness and is included in both squads. Ireland will open the triseries against West Indies on May 28, followed by matches against Pakistan on May 31 and June 4, with an additional fixture against the Caribbean side scheduled for June 1. At the World Cup, Ireland will begin their campaign against Scotland at Old Trafford on June 13, before facing hosts and 2009 winners England on June 16 and defending champions New Zealand on June 19. Their final group matches are against Sri Lanka on June 23 in Bristol and West Indies on June 27 at the same venue. Cricket Ireland also confirmed that Jane Maguire has been ruled out of both events due to an injury, while Aimee Maguire has returned to fitness and is included in both squads. Ireland will open the triseries against West Indies on May 28, followed by matches against Pakistan on May 31 and June 4, with an additional fixture against the Caribbean side scheduled for June 1. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ireland squad for womens tri-series: Orla Prendergast (c), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Laura Delany, Georgina Dempsey, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Louise Little, Aimee Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul and Rebecca Stokell Article Source: IANS

Nabi Should Have Gotten A Chance To Be In Squad For Test Against Afghanistan, Says Raina

With Harshit Rana: Former India batter Suresh Raina has said Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi should have been given a chance in the Test squad for the one-off match against Afghanistan, though he also felt captain Shubman Gills inputs could have shaped the final look of the bowling attack. With Harshit Rana and Akash Deep ruled out due to varied injuries and ace pacer Jasprit Bumrah rested, Nabi - one of the standout performers of the Ranji Trophy season, where he led Jammu and Kashmir to victory by picking 60 scalps, was widely tipped to get a maiden Test callup. But the selectors opted for lanky Punjab pacer Gurnoor Brar as the backup fast bowling option to join Mohammed Siraj and Prasidh Krishna in the squad, meaning that Nabi, who has 104 wickets in the last two Ranji Trophy seasons, will have to wait for his chance to be in the Test team. Auqib Nabi should have gotten a chance. He played a key role in Jammu and Kashmir winning the Ranji Trophy for the first time. But I feel Prasidh and Siraj are bowling well with good line and length. They have pace, and Gurnoor, who is 6'5, comes from Punjab and has taken 52 wickets in 18 first-class matches. I am sure Shubman Gill would have given his inputs about the kind of bowlers he wanted, said Raina on JioHotstar. Gurnoors inclusion for the Test and ODI teams is seen as a punt on attributes he provides, like raw pace and the ability to generate steep bounce even on placid pitches. Though he has a modest return of 52 wickets from 18 first-class matches, Gurnoor broke into the India A squads last year and picked up 12 wickets in three matches, including six in Kanpur against Australia A, where he overshadowed Siraj and Prasidh. They have pace, and Gurnoor, who is 6'5, comes from Punjab and has taken 52 wickets in 18 first-class matches. I am sure Shubman Gill would have given his inputs about the kind of bowlers he wanted, said Raina on JioHotstar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So I feel Pragyan Ojha and RP Singh are doing a good job in the selection committee. They have been watching matches all around the country and would have kept an eye on the top performers during the red-ball season, added Raina. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch GT Vs CSK, Know All Details

Champions Gujarat Titans: 2022 Champions Gujarat Titans (GT) will clash with five-time winners Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their last group stage match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at the Narendra Modi Stadium on Thursday. Gujarat Titans are currently placed at second spot in the points table with 16 points in 13 matches. They are qualified for the IPL 2026 playoffs and will look to finish the league stage on a high to seal a top-two finish. GT is coming to the contest after registering a dominant win against the Kolkata Knight Riders at Eden Gardens. Meanwhile, on the other side, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) are placed at sixth position in the points table with 12 points in 13 matches, and they will need to win their final match against GT to stay in the playoffs qualification race. CSK also needs to win the match with a big margin to improve their net run rate, which can play a big role in deciding the fourth team if other teams' results go in their favour. CSK and GT have faced each other nine times in IPL 2026, in which Gujarat have come victorious on five occasions, and Chennai have won only four matches. When: Friday, May 21, 7:30 PM IST Where: Narendra Modi Stadium, Ahmedabad Where to watch: The GT vs CSK match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The GT vs CSK match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings: Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), MS Dhoni (wk), Devon Conway, Rahul Tripathi, Shaik Rasheed, Vansh Bedi (wk), C Andre Siddharth, Rachin Ravindra, Ravichandran Ashwin, Vijay Shankar, Sam Curran, Anshul Kamboj, Deepak Hooda, Jamie Overton, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Ravindra Jadeja, Shivam Dube, Khaleel Ahmed, Noor Ahmad, Mukesh Choudhary, Dewald Brevis, Nathan Ellis, Shreyas Gopal, Matheesha Pathirana. Article Source: IANS

Shanto praises 'healthy competition' within bowling unit after series win

Bangladesh captain highlighted the bowlers' consistency and competitiveness as central to the series victory against Pakistan

People Are Finally Seeing The Depth Of Talent Pool In South Africa: Du Plessis On SA20s Influence

ICC World Test Championship: Former South African skipper Faf du Plessis has credited the SA20 league for providing young players a platform to showcase their talent internationally and gain recognition. Up to 21 South African players are featuring in the ongoing IPL 2026 season, with 17 of them either retained or bought in the player auction across the 10 teams, and du Plessis highlighted South Africas recent successes in ICC tournaments, including their triumph in the World Test Championship at Lords last year. When it comes to opportunity, you have to credit the SA20. People are finally seeing the depth of the talent pool in South Africa. In the past, you only saw our marquee national players in the IPL - maybe six or seven guys, plus one or two youngsters who came out of nowhere. It was never a high number, du Plessis told SA20 on his return after a successful broadcasting stint in the IPL. With the SA20 being broadcast to the whole world over the last four years, everyone can see there is so much more talent beyond the starting XI. Yes, the national side consists of incredible players, but much like in India and the IPL, theres a massive group underneath them waiting for an opportunity who are just as dangerous in the T20 format. India can pick a second or third-string team because of their depth, and you can now say the same about South Africa. For a long time, I felt the national team was just a couple of injuries away from being knocked out of contention at an ICC event, he added. The 41-year-old elaborated by giving the example of the Australian side, explaining how leagues were previously dominated by Australian players and how the global spotlight is slowly shifting towards the Proteas after reaching a couple of white-ball finals and winning the ICC World Test Championship mace. For years and years in the IPL, you saw a majority of Australians playing. That was largely because there were - and still are - a lot of Australian coaches, so they naturally gravitated towards their own players. For a long time, Australian cricket was seen as the pinnacle globally, so teams looked up to them. However, South Africa making a couple of white-ball finals over the last few World Cups and winning the World Test Championship has put us back in the global spotlight as a proper cricketing nation. Young talents like Connor Esterhuizen and Dian Forrester are already reaping the benefits. Esterhuizen impressed with Pretoria Capitals and earned a spot with Gujarat Titans as a replacement player, while Forresters standout performances for Joburg Super Kings in the SA20 landed him a Pakistan Super League contract with Rawalpindi, where he maintained a strike rate of 171.42 and an average of 44. Du Plessis, who plans to play for JSK in the upcoming SA20, shared his reflections on his IPL commentary stint, emphasising the unique learning experience it offered. When stepping into a new venture surrounded by commentators who have been doing it for years, you try to find your own label. One of those areas is my recency of playing with the current players. Young talents like Connor Esterhuizen and Dian Forrester are already reaping the benefits. Esterhuizen impressed with Pretoria Capitals and earned a spot with Gujarat Titans as a replacement player, while Forresters standout performances for Joburg Super Kings in the SA20 landed him a Pakistan Super League contract with Rawalpindi, where he maintained a strike rate of 171.42 and an average of 44. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He added, For me, leaning on that experience was a great way to find my own voice in the commentary space, and I really enjoyed it. One major learning curve is realising that speaking normally doesn't always work in commentary. You have to convey emotion through your voice so the listener can feel the stadium's atmosphere, even if they can't see the game. Going through the gears in terms of excitement and living within the game is where I realised I need to do the most work. In commentary, the audience can't see you, so your tone and pacing are the only ways to transmit that energy. Article Source: IANS

Kapil Dev And Mens Team Won Their First-ever WC There, Wed Love To Win T20WC At Lords Too: Jemimah

T20 World Cup: Jemimah Rodrigues has set her sights on Lords, the iconic ground where Kapil Dev led the Indian mens team to their first-ever World Cup triumph in 1983. The Indian womens star says her team dreams of achieving the same milestone at the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, aiming to lift their maiden T20 title at the historic venue. Kapil Dev and the Indian mens team won their first-ever World Cup there. We would love to win our first-ever Womens T20 World Cup there. That would be super cool, Jemimah was quoted by ICC. The 25-year-old batter, who recently played an innings of a lifetime, an unbeaten 127 off 134 balls, to guide India across the line in an epic ICC Womens Cricket World Cup semi-final chase against Australia last year, feels that victory has instilled a newfound resolve within the team. India went on to clinch their maiden title that night in Navi Mumbai, and Jemimah believes that triumph has only fueled their motivation heading into England and Wales. The monkey is off the back. But I don't think it's pressure. I think it's more motivation because now you've tasted what it feels like to lift one World Cup. It makes you want one more and then one more and then one more. So I think the team is even more motivated and even more eager. And more than that, we saw the kind of impact it had for women's cricket in India, she said. Jemimah also praised her teammates' character, emphasising the importance of mental strength in high-pressure games. We just want to continue that legacy going to England. I think this team has character. When you want to win big games, you need people with character, people who are different in their own way, but they have a thing that they'll do anything to win the match. That kind of an attitude. And I think that's great character. That's why in any situation, I believe our team will find a way to win a match, Jemimah said. Reflecting on her personal journey, Jemimah revealed how past setbacks prepared her for her breakthrough innings against Australia. I think firstly, the biggest learning for me was because I was going through a lot of anxiety, not doing well, got two ducks in the tournament, was dropped and four years ago, I was dropped from the Cricket World Cup. This was my first World Cup. What I realised is that sometimes all you have got to do is show up because life has a way of making all things work together for good, she said. And I think, those four years actually trained me for such a moment as that, because I had to use all that experience that all the failures in all those years taught me maybe for such a time as that. So I think that was my biggest learning, that sometimes, especially when it gets hard and you don't have the strength to run or fly, sometimes all you have to do is just go and stand and God works out everything for you, Jemimah added. Jemimah will once again play a pivotal role as India chase their maiden T20 World Cup crown. Slotted in Group 1, the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side will take on Australia, South Africa, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and the Netherlands, opening their campaign against arch-rivals Pakistan on June 14 at Edgbaston, Birmingham. And I think, those four years actually trained me for such a moment as that, because I had to use all that experience that all the failures in all those years taught me maybe for such a time as that. So I think that was my biggest learning, that sometimes, especially when it gets hard and you don't have the strength to run or fly, sometimes all you have to do is just go and stand and God works out everything for you, Jemimah added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With that blend of experience, character, and confidence, Jemimah and her teammates aim to create more memorable moments as they kickstart their campaign at the iconic grounds of England. Article Source: IANS

'Now We Want To Play More Tests Against Aus, Eng & India,' Says Shanto After Historic Win Over Pakistan

Sylhet International Cricket Stadium: Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto called for more Test matches against top nations such as Australia, England, and India after his side completed a historic 2-0 Test series sweep over Pakistan with a 78-run win in the second Test at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Bangladesh sealed their first-ever home Test series victory against Pakistan after spinner Taijul Islam claimed a match-winning 6-120 to bowl Pakistan out for 358 while defending a target of 437 on the final day. Following the victory, Shanto said Bangladesh now wants to challenge themselves more regularly against the top Test-playing nations in both home and away conditions. We actually want to play Test matches. We want to play with every team. I think now we want to play more Tests with Australia, England, India, both home and away, Shanto told reporters after the match. Because when we get the chance to play matches, when we get those new experiences, the team will slowly build. Otherwise, playing with the same team again and again, playing in the same conditions, it is difficult to actually build a team, he added. The Bangladesh skipper also expressed hope that the ICC would schedule more Tests for his side against stronger opponents. So hopefully, the ICC will give us more Test matches with all the teams. Now that we are getting the chance to play more matches, this is a positive aspect. But if we can play more and better matches with Australia, England, and India, of course, it will be better for our team, he said. Bangladesh were briefly put under pressure on the final day as Mohammad Rizwan and Sajid Khan added important runs in the morning session before the hosts fought back strongly. Shanto admitted the tense final session tested his side emotionally but praised his players for staying calm under pressure. Its difficult to explain the emotion in the last hour because, honestly, they were batting well and we were a little under pressure. But compared to the previous Test matches, controlling that emotion and not panicking has become a little better, he said. But there is still a need for improvement. Overall, I feel very proud as a captain to see the work ethic of every player. Every player worked hard, and everyone contributed to this result, he added. Its difficult to explain the emotion in the last hour because, honestly, they were batting well and we were a little under pressure. But compared to the previous Test matches, controlling that emotion and not panicking has become a little better, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score What I always say is that we have to build our Test team slowly, there is still a lot of room for improvement. When we play consistently well at home and abroad, then I would say that our team is better than before, he said. Article Source: IANS

Masood leaves captaincy future to PCB but calls for 'structural' changes

After a series loss to Bangladesh, Pakistan captain urged his side to reflect on recurring failures and address the oot causes behind their slide in Tests

IPL 2026: Boost For RCB As Opener Phil Salt Set To Rejoin Squad Later This Week

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: In a timely boost for defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), opener Phil Salt is set to return to India later this week after spending a month back home on the sidelines due to a finger injury. Salt, 29, injured a finger on his left hand while diving to save a boundary during RCB's defeat to Delhi Capitals in an afternoon clash at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium on April 18. He then flew home to recover and spend time with his young family. But now, as per a report from ESPNCricinfo, Salt is set to come back to India and rejoin RCB. It remains to be seen if Salt will be available to play in RCB's final league-stage match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on Friday, but they are unlikely to take any risks so close to the playoffs, further said the report. In his absence, RCB have already secured qualification for the playoffs and are wellplaced to reach Qualifier 1, to be played at the HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala next Tuesday, barring a significant dent to their net run rate. Salt had provided a significant spark at the top of the order for RCB by amassing 202 runs across six innings at an impressive strike rate of 168.33 before the finger injury forced him out of the lineup. In his absence, his England teammate Jacob Bethell has partnered with Virat Kohli at the top of the batting order. But Bethell has struggled to make an impact, amassing only 96 runs in seven innings with a highest score of 27. Salt had provided a significant spark at the top of the order for RCB by amassing 202 runs across six innings at an impressive strike rate of 168.33 before the finger injury forced him out of the lineup. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With regular skipper Rajat Patidar missing the game against PBKS due to not travelling to Dharamshala after being struck on the helmet by a sharp bouncer from Kolkata Knight Riders pacer Kartik Tyagi during the clash in Raipur, Iyer stepped up to make crucial runs for RCB. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: After Win Over LSG, RR Skipper Parag Urges Commentators To talk About Cricket

Indian Premier League: Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag has taken aim at television commentators and experts for making personal remarks during the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) season, and urged them to respect players and keep their analysis limited to on-field happenings. Parag sat out of RRs seven-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants due to a recurring hamstring injury. Despite that, RR managed to get a crucial win which in turn has boosted their hopes of entering the playoffs. As far as the IPL is concerned, there are a lot of things happening outside this year. I feel the whole country loves cricket a lot. We, as players, try to give our best whenever we can. We perform according to the expectations of the crowd. So, I feel, we should all love cricket and look at it in the same way. Players are working very hard. It is very easy to say, if a team gets all out for 75 or 80 runs, that they do not know how to play or have the mindset to play. But before that game, there is a 34 days' preparation (period) to ensure how we can score 200250. But sometimes it doesn't happen. We are humans too and we make mistakes too. So, I feel, as much as it is happening outside, especially the commentators, their voices are reaching out to the people, I would request them to love cricket and talk about cricket, Parag told reporters at the end of the game. Parag, who has been named as India A vicecaptain for next months 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka, said the sport must be treated with respect. The sport, which is the country's most important sport, and in which we are the best, I feel, (should be treated) with a little respect. We should only talk about cricket. We should not talk about anything else, he said. Talking about his mantra to block out outside noise, Parag said, I have understood one thing that you have been saying for the last four years, that no matter what I do, there will be talks. I have also understood that whatever talks are happening, it shouldn't affect my game, my form or my mindset because keyboard warriors are outsiders. Parag, who has been named as India A vicecaptain for next months 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka, said the sport must be treated with respect. The sport, which is the country's most important sport, and in which we are the best, I feel, (should be treated) with a little respect. We should only talk about cricket. We should not talk about anything else, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But it was really fun and curious to see Vaibhav, being 15. He took his time. He played that first big shot off Mayank (Yadav) over covers, which really gave me a sense of satisfaction and understanding that, okay, he is small but then he has a larger understanding of the game. Article Source: IANS

Bangladesh Leapfrog India On WTC27 Standings After Series Sweep Over Pakistan

ICC World Test Championship: Bangladesh have leapfrogged India in the ICC World Test Championship standings after an impressive 78-run triumph over Pakistan in the second Test in Sylhet. Bangladesh wrapped up the series-clinching victory during the morning session on the final day of the Test on Wednesday, with their bowlers taking the last three Pakistan wickets to ensure a 2-0 series scoreline. The win took Bangladesh to fifth place on the WTC 2027 standings with a win-loss percentage of 58.33 percent, surpassing India, who dropped to sixth with 48.15 points from nine Tests, four wins and as many defeats along with a drawn Test. Meanwhile, Pakistan remained in eighth place on the standings following the loss. India, who have not played a Test match so far this year, will play a one-off Test against Afghanistan, which is not part of the WTC cycle. Resuming the final day on 316/7 while chasing a challenging 437-run target, Pakistan added 42 runs before being bowled out for 358 in 97.2 overs. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan top-scored with a fighting 94 off 166 balls, smashing 10 boundaries. Pakistan entered the final day with hopes of pulling off a record chase and Rizwan continued to battle hard alongside Sajid Khan, who played a 28-run knock featuring five boundaries, but Pakistan lost their final three wickets without adding to the total after reaching 358. Spinner Taijul Islam was the star for Bangladesh as he claimed six wickets, which included two scalps on the final day as the visitors attempted to pull off a record run chase of 437 Pakistan entered the final day with hopes of pulling off a record chase and Rizwan continued to battle hard alongside Sajid Khan, who played a 28-run knock featuring five boundaries, but Pakistan lost their final three wickets without adding to the total after reaching 358. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The series triumph was Bangladesh's first at home against Pakistan and their second successive sweep over their Asian rivals after their 2-0 win on Pakistani soil in 2024. Article Source: IANS

'Test Cricket Punishes Every Mistake You Make,' Says Masood After Series Loss To Bangladesh

Sylhet International Cricket Stadium: Pakistan captain Shan Masood admitted that his side paid the price for repeated mistakes after Bangladesh completed a historic 2-0 Test series sweep with a 78-run victory in the second Test at Sylhet International Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Pakistan were bowled out for 358 while chasing a daunting target of 437 on the final day despite a strong fight from Mohammad Rizwan, who scored 94, and Salman Agha, who made 71. Spinner Taijul Islam starred with a match-winning spell of 6-120 to seal Bangladeshs first-ever home Test series win over Pakistan. Reflecting on the defeat, Masood said Pakistan had failed to capitalise on key moments across the match and stressed that Test cricket leaves no room for errors. Test cricket punishes every mistake you make. Its unforgiving, and Test cricket is always played by the best of the best. Youre not going to get any easy games, and you really have to grind results out, Masood said after the match. The Pakistan skipper felt his team had opportunities to take control of the game but failed to finish strongly in crucial phases. Weve put ourselves into positions. I can only count a couple of Test matches where weve been completely outplayed, but in every other Test match weve been in positions where we didnt finish well, either with the ball or in the field. Thats something you have to do consistently over five days, and thats the learning this side really needs to take, he said. Masood also pointed to Bangladeshs recovery in the first innings as one of the turning points of the match. Bangladesh were struggling at 116 /6 before recovering to post 278, thanks to lower-order contributions and a century from Litton Das. Especially when they were 116 for 6, the last four wickets ended up scoring a lot of runs. We missed opportunities, and from there, even with the batting, when we got to 142 for 4, and there were two set batsmen in, in Test cricket, you have to go big, Masood added. Masood also pointed to Bangladeshs recovery in the first innings as one of the turning points of the match. Bangladesh were struggling at 116 /6 before recovering to post 278, thanks to lower-order contributions and a century from Litton Das. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The victory marked Bangladeshs fourth consecutive Test win over Pakistan and helped them climb above India to fifth place in the ICC World Test Championship standings. Article Source: IANS

KKR Have A Real Shot At The Playoffs; Must Not Take MI Lightly: Kumble

Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India captain Anil Kumble believes three-time winners Kolkata Knight Riders do have a real shot of making it to the IPL 2026 playoffs but cautioned that they must not commit the mistake of taking five-time champions Mumbai Indians lightly in their upcoming clash to be played at the Eden Gardens on Wednesday evening. KKRs second half resurgence has been driven by good bowling performances, as well as Rinku Singh and Finn Allen playing blistering knocks. KKR have been brilliant in their last few games. The momentum is firmly with them. Varun Chakaravarthy, who had a poor start to the season, is suddenly back in rhythm. Finn Allen is batting superbly. It's been a remarkable turnaround, and Rinku Singh has played a key role in it. When KKR were struggling, it was Rinku's innings that changed their fortunes. With Sunil Narine and others also firing, there are plenty of positives for KKR right now. But the big challenge is Mumbai Indians. MI have nothing to lose. They will go all out to finish the season on a high. KKR have a real shot at the playoffs, so they must not make the mistake of taking MI lightly, said Kumble on Star Sports. It's been a remarkable turnaround, and Rinku Singh has played a key role in it. When KKR were struggling, it was Rinku's innings that changed their fortunes. With Sunil Narine and others also firing, there are plenty of positives for KKR right now. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rohit has looked in good touch this season. Even though he didn't score much in the last game at Dharamshala, he has batted with purpose and conviction in most of his other innings. He looks like the old Rohit. And he has a special connection with Eden Gardens. KKR will want to dismiss him early; otherwise, the game could quickly swing in Mumbai's favour. Article Source: IANS

Nepal Stars Make ODI Rankings Gains After Back-to-back Wins In League 2

Cricket World Cup League: A string of impressive performances in the ongoing ICC Mens Cricket World Cup League 2 has propelled several Nepal players up the latest ICC Mens ODI Player Rankings. Nepal secured consecutive victories over the USA and Scotland last week on the road to next years ICC Mens Cricket World Cup, with their bowlers leading the way. Experienced all-rounder Dipendra Singh Airee was a standout, claiming a four-wicket haul against the USA. The 26-year-olds efforts earned him a jump of three spots to 79th overall on the ODI bowlers list, while his all-round performances saw him rise three places to 25th among ODI all-rounders. Nepals spin duo also made gains, with Sandeep Lamichhane moving up six rungs to equal 36th and Lalit Rajbanshi climbing 16 places to equal 53rd on the latest ODI bowlers rankings. Despite these movements, Afghanistan all-rounder Rashid Khan continues to dominate the ODI bowlers rankings with a commanding 705 rating points, while his teammate Azmatullah Omarzai remains the No. 1-ranked all-rounder in ODIs. Scotlands in-form Brandon McMullen has also made notable progress, moving up two spots to sixth overall in the all-rounder list following a career-best 73 against Nepal. That innings additionally helped McMullen climb six places to 53rd among ODI batters. Nepals batting efforts have not gone unnoticed either, with Saiteja Mukkamalla advancing five spots to 61st and Aasif Sheikh rising seven positions to equal 86th in the updated ODI batters rankings. Scotlands in-form Brandon McMullen has also made notable progress, moving up two spots to sixth overall in the all-rounder list following a career-best 73 against Nepal. That innings additionally helped McMullen climb six places to 53rd among ODI batters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Nepals recent surge in League 2 underscores the teams growing competitiveness and the emergence of new talent making their mark on the global stage. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Can See Sooryavanshi Breaking Gayles Record And Making History, Says Kumble

Lucknow Super Giants: Former India captain Anil Kumble believes Rajasthan Royals opener Vaibhav Suryavanshi is on the cusp of making history in IPL 2026, saying the teenager can break Chris Gayles record for most sixes hit by a batter in a single season of the competition. Sooryavanshis scintillating 93 off 38 balls helped RR keep their knockout hopes alive in IPL 2026 with a commanding sevenwicket win over Lucknow Super Giants. The left-handed batter was at his brutal best by hammering 10 towering sixes in a breathtaking assault that powered RR to chase down 221 and sign off from their home matches at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on a high. In the process, he became the first Indian batter in IPL history to hit 50 sixes in a single season. Very few batters can hit sixes over cover with such ease. But Vaibhav Suryavanshi did it multiple times against Digvesh Rathi. I am glad people still have words to describe such talent. I am running out of my own vocabulary. This kid is very special. What stands out even more is his mindset. Every time he speaks, he sounds mature beyond his years. That is crucial at this age, especially with all the attention and praise coming his way. He understands that this is just the start. He said it himself after the match: 'This is the start of my journey. If my journey is long enough, I will create a few of these records.' He has already hit 53 sixes this IPL season. Chris Gayle holds the record for most sixes in a season with 59. RR have one more league game and then the playoffs. If they win, he will get more chances. I can see Vaibhav Suryavanshi breaking Gayle's record and making history, said Kumble on Star Sports. Wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel continued his good run by smashing an unbeaten 53 off 38 balls and Kumble had rich words of praise for him. Dhruv Jurel brings much-needed stability to Rajasthan's batting order. With Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Suryavanshi attacking from ball one at the top, they can play freely knowing Jurel is there to hold the innings together if early wickets fall. His strike rate may have dropped this season compared to previous years when he batted as a finisher. But now that he is batting in the top order, his consistency has improved. His fifty against LSG was his fifth half-century of the season. In 13 games, that is a solid return. Yes, he has had some ups and downs, but five fifties from your number three batter is something any team would take. Before Sooryavanshi and Jurel, stand-in captain Yashasvi Jaiswal was the aggressor in a 75run opening stand, including smashing a hattrick of boundaries off Akash Singh in a 23run over before launching into Mohsin Khan for smashing a six and three fours. Jaiswals early counterattack ensured RR had the perfect platform for Sooryavanshi and Jurel to unleash carnage on LSG bowlers. In a chase of 220, winning the powerplay is crucial. RR needed a flying start, but Vaibhav Suryavanshi began a little cautiously. That is when Yashasvi Jaiswal stepped up. He took on the bowlers and scored 43 quick runs. That aggressive knock gave RR the momentum they needed early on. Before Sooryavanshi and Jurel, stand-in captain Yashasvi Jaiswal was the aggressor in a 75run opening stand, including smashing a hattrick of boundaries off Akash Singh in a 23run over before launching into Mohsin Khan for smashing a six and three fours. Jaiswals early counterattack ensured RR had the perfect platform for Sooryavanshi and Jurel to unleash carnage on LSG bowlers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That is the beauty of having two players at the top who understand each others game well. One takes the early risks, the other builds the innings. Together, they made a steep chase look much easier than it actually was, concluded Kumble. Article Source: IANS

Between The Cheers And The Silence: The Uneasy Wait For Dhoni's Final Goodbye

Chennai Super Kings: MS Dhoni walked into another Chennai night carrying the same aura he always has. The noise rose instantly, the yellow flags fluttered louder, and thousands inside Chepauk stood up, hoping to witness something memorable once again. Not just a cameo, not merely a few runs, but perhaps one final moment with the man who has defined Chennai Super Kings for nearly two decades. That possibility, unspoken yet overwhelmingly present, hung over CSKs clash with Sunrisers Hyderabad on Monday. This was never only about a league game. It was about Dhoni, about what he still means to CSK, and about the growing uncertainty over how or when this extraordinary relationship will finally end. For days leading up to the fixture, the city had transformed into a waiting room of emotion. Streets around the stadium flooded hours before the toss. Yellow shirts filled every lane leading to the ground. Fans travelled across states not merely to watch cricket, but to experience what many feared could be Dhonis final appearance in CSK colours. And the franchise knew it too. Everything around the game carried the unmistakable air of occasion. Broadcasters amplified it. Former cricketers hinted at it. Commentators romanticised it. Social media revolved around it. The anticipation was not built around CSKs playoff chances alone; it revolved around the possibility of Thala Darshanam, Dhoni emerging one more time in front of the Chepauk faithful. There are defeats that end seasons, and then there are nights that leave behind something far heavier than two points lost on a table. For CSK and their millions of supporters, the loss to Sunrisers Hyderabad felt like both at once. Mathematically, Chennais IPL 2026 campaign is not completely over yet. One league game still remains in Ahmedabad, and the playoff equation, however improbable, technically survives. But emotionally, it felt like the end of something larger. Perhaps not officially. Perhaps not conclusively. But enough to leave an entire fanbase suspended between hope and heartbreak. That emotional economy has powered CSK for years now. Even in seasons where results fluctuated, Chennai possessed one advantage no other IPL franchise could replicate: legacy. Continuity. Emotional permanence. And at the centre of that universe stood one man. Dhoni was never merely a player in Chennai. He became the identity around which the franchise evolved. Captain, finisher, talisman, symbol, over nearly two decades, he transformed into something far beyond cricketing definitions. Packed stadiums came not with the guarantee of victory, but with the hope of watching him walk out once more. That relationship between Dhoni and Chennai has always felt unusually personal, almost inseparable. An emotional thread that refused to break despite age, injuries and the passage of time. Even Dhoni himself reinforced that bond repeatedly over the years, insisting he would continue playing for CSK for as long as possible. I can play for as long as I want for CSK - That is my franchise. Even if I am in a wheelchair, they will drag me, he had once joked. That line perfectly captured the devotion between player and city. And perhaps that is why Monday night felt incomplete. The atmosphere inside Chepauk was deafening. Fans whistled through every over, cheered every moment and continued backing a struggling CSK side long after the game began slipping away. But as the tension rose, Dhoni remained distant from the central action. Yes, there were understandable cricketing reasons. Reports emerged of an additional finger injury. The team combination also appeared relatively settled in recent matches. Realistically, opportunities for him to bat were always going to be limited. But logic does not always soften emotion. Because what unfolded at Chepauk also raised a difficult question: do CSK fans deserve more clarity than this? It is difficult to argue otherwise. For years, supporters have invested themselves emotionally in this journey. They have celebrated the trophies, defended the failures and carried the mythology of Dhoni and CSK almost as a shared cultural identity. The least they perhaps deserve is closure. Instead, every season now seems to end in ambiguity. And ambiguity is something Dhoni has always embraced. Throughout his career, he has preferred silent exits over grand ceremonies. His retirement from international cricket arrived through a simple social media post accompanied by music he loved. No farewell series. No lap of honour. No orchestrated goodbye. That restraint is deeply characteristic of Dhoni. But the emotional scale of his relationship with CSK makes this situation different. For many supporters, the IPL represented their final opportunity to celebrate not just the cricketer, but the phenomenon. To properly say goodbye to the player who shaped modern Indian cricket, transformed Chennai into a powerhouse and became the defining face of the IPL era itself. Instead, there remains a growing sense of unease that the ending may simply arrive one day without warning. Perhaps that is exactly how Dhoni wants it. Perhaps he will once again surprise everyone, as he has done repeatedly throughout his career. Even now, nobody truly seems certain about his plans, not the management, not teammates, not fans. And that uncertainty has turned every Dhoni appearance into something bittersweet. Every walk to the crease now carries the weight of possibility. Every wave to the crowd feels loaded with interpretation. Every lingering moment on the field invites speculation. Instead, there remains a growing sense of unease that the ending may simply arrive one day without warning. Perhaps that is exactly how Dhoni wants it. Perhaps he will once again surprise everyone, as he has done repeatedly throughout his career. Even now, nobody truly seems certain about his plans, not the management, not teammates, not fans. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And maybe that is the hardest part of all. Article Source: IANS

'Talking To Seniors Gives Me Confidence': Sooryavanshi After Blistering 93 Against LSG

Lucknow Super Giants: After playing a stunning knock of 93 off just 38 balls in Rajasthan Royals seven-wicket win over Lucknow Super Giants, young opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi said that talking to senior cricketers and coaches has boosted his confidence as he looks to contribute more for the team in the ongoing IPL 2026 season. Chasing a daunting 221-run target at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, RR completed the chase with five balls to spare. Sooryavanshis explosive innings, featuring 10 sixes, laid the foundation for the successful chase, while Dhruv Jurel remained unbeaten on 53 to guide the hosts home and keep their playoff hopes alive. Speaking after the match, Sooryavanshi said the recognition coming from experienced players and former cricketers has been a proud moment for him. It feels good. Its a moment of pride. And yes, it feels good when so many seniors, cricketers, ex-cricketers, and our coaches talk to me. It gives me confidence, and it helps me in the game, he said in a video released by IPL on X. The youngster added that he is focused on maintaining his rhythm and continuing to play positively in the upcoming matches. My flow is going on. Its going on in the next match, and the tournament is going on in the next match. The more I contribute to the team, the more it helps, he said. The opener also revealed that RRs approach during the high-pressure chase was to stay relaxed and back their natural game instead of thinking too much about qualification scenarios. We all wanted to do what weve been doing. We wanted to enjoy and not put pressure. Its good cricket play well and back our strength. Thats the focus in the next match, he said. We dont have any focus on qualifications. Its in everyones mind if theres a chance. But were trying to do better day by day, he added. We all wanted to do what weve been doing. We wanted to enjoy and not put pressure. Its good cricket play well and back our strength. Thats the focus in the next match, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After this win, RR is placed at number four in the points table with seven wins in 13 matches. They will confirm their spot in the playoffs if they beat the Mumbai Indians (MI) in their last group stage match on Sunday. Article Source: IANS

'It's A Real Privilege To Watch Him Bat': Langer Heaps Praise On Sooryavanshi

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) head coach Justin Langer has heaped praise on Rajasthan Royals batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after the 15-year-old's 93-run knock helped his side chase down a mammoth total of 221 runs in just 19.1 overs to boost their qualification chances. Langer described the teenager's batting as reathtaking and admitted it was a privilege to watch him bat. My gosh, he's so young. He's a brilliant, brilliant player and it's a real privilege to watch him bat, actually, Langer said in the post-match press conference. We've seen it all season. He's the leading run scorer. In all my time, I've seen some amazing players in 35 years of cricket. To see a young man bat like that, not just tonight, but throughout the series, is breathtaking, he added. Sooryavanshi's innings was laced with seven fours and ten sixes, and according to Langer, the Indian player is going to get much better with experience, as he is already shocking the big bowlers with his shots. I think the last game, Mitchell Starc, who's one of the all-time great white ball bowlers, he's bowling, and look at the expression on his face, Langer recalled. And Nortje, who's a world-class international bowler, and Sooryavanshi is hitting him. And the expression on their face is such that, 'what is happening here?' The scary thing going forward is, if the expressions on the face of Mitch Starc and Nortje and every bowler tell a story now, what about when he learns how to bat? Sooryavanshi's innings was laced with seven fours and ten sixes, and according to Langer, the Indian player is going to get much better with experience, as he is already shocking the big bowlers with his shots. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After Sooryvanshi's dismissal, Dhruv Jurel, who scored his fifth fifty of the season, and Donovan Ferreira added the finishing touches to help RR over the finish line and keep them firmly in the IPL 2026 playoffs race. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'With 53 Sixes, Sooryavanshi Is Actually Going After Gayle's Record,' Says Irfan

Lucknow Super Giants: Rajasthan Royals teenage sensation Vaibhav Suryavanshi continues to terrorise bowlers in IPL 2026, and former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes the 15-year-old is on the verge of breaking one of the most iconic records in the tournaments history. Sooryavanshi smashed a blistering 93 off just 38 balls against Lucknow Super Giants as Rajasthan Royals chased down 221 with ease. In the process, the teenage prodigy became the first Indian batter in IPL history to hit 50 sixes in a single season. He also became the youngest player in tournament history to reach 500 runs and maintained the highest strike rate ever in a 500-plus-run season at 236.3. This was unbelievable. The maturity he showed was the highlight for me. We always say, whenever we watch Vaibhav Suryavanshi, that he's a very good leg-side player. The way he played on the off-side in this game was outstanding. He has great control over his back-lift. He was playing over covers and even played an upper-cut over third man. It is very difficult to stop him, Pathan told JioStar. In his first 10 balls, he was batting at a strike rate of less than 100, and by the end of the innings, he had scored 93 runs off just 38 balls. With 53 sixes, he is actually going after Chris Gayle's record of 59 sixes, which has stood since 2012. As bowlers, we were always scared of facing Chris Gayle. Vaibhav Suryavanshi is creating that same fear, and Gayle's record is definitely in danger, he said, praising the teenagers power-hitting and composure under pressure. With a seven-wicket win, RR jumped to fourth place in the points table, ahead of Punjab Kings, who had been holding that position for quite some time. A victory in their last league stage game against Mumbai Indians, and some favourable results, would lead to the inaugural champions clinching the last-remaining playoff spot. In his first 10 balls, he was batting at a strike rate of less than 100, and by the end of the innings, he had scored 93 runs off just 38 balls. With 53 sixes, he is actually going after Chris Gayle's record of 59 sixes, which has stood since 2012. As bowlers, we were always scared of facing Chris Gayle. Vaibhav Suryavanshi is creating that same fear, and Gayle's record is definitely in danger, he said, praising the teenagers power-hitting and composure under pressure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But RR are at least keeping themselves in contention, especially with the kind of batting line-up they have. What's happening with Ravindra Jadeja? His experience will be invaluable, and at the same time, Riyan Parag's batting will be key as well. I'll be keeping an eye on these two factors because if both of them come back in, RR will be in a much better position to win that game too, he added. Article Source: IANS

Taijul takes six as Bangladesh complete 2-0 sweep

Rizwan's 94 went in vain as Pakistan fell 78 short of their target of 437

RCB opener Phil Salt set to return to IPL later this week

It remains to be seen if he will be available for the SRH game on Friday

Fakhar, Ayub Ruled Out Of Selection For ODIs Against Australia Due To Injuries

The Pakistan Cricket Board: Pakistan have been dealt a big blow ahead of their upcoming ODI series against Australia as their opening pair, Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman, have been ruled out of selection for the three-match series due to injuries. The hosts are yet to announce the squad for the ODI leg of Australias tour of Pakistan, scheduled to begin on May 30. The hosts will now have to find new sets of openers for their series against Australia. According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), both players are currently undergoing rehabilitation and recovery under the close supervision of the boards medical staff. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced that both players are currently recovering from injuries and have been advised to continue their rehabilitation programmes under the supervision of the PCB medical panel. Consequently, they have been ruled out of selection for the ODI series, the PCB said in the statement. The PCB wishes both players a speedy recovery and looks forward to seeing them return to competitive cricket at the earliest opportunity. Further updates regarding the squad and player fitness will be shared in due course, it added. The pair last featured for Pakistan during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 and was more recently in action in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Fakhar is one of the most experienced players on the Pakistan side. He has played 92 ODIs and scored 3861 runs at an average of 45.42. He has also hit 11 centuries and 19 half-centuries. While Saim has played 17 ODIs and scored 751 runs. He has also taken nine wickets. The pair last featured for Pakistan during the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 and was more recently in action in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pakistan will come into the series after suffering a 2-1 defeat against Bangladesh in ODIs, followed by a 2-0 loss in the Test series. Article Source: IANS

'Words Can't Do Justice To The Kind Of Ability He Possesses': Bangar's Special Praise For Sooryavanshis

Lucknow Super Giants: Rajasthan Royals teenage prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi turned heads with his match-winning 93 in his team's crucial victory over Lucknow Super Giants and drew high praise from ex-India batting coach Sanjay Bangar, who said he falls short of words every time he sees Sooryavanshi perform. Sooryavanshi let his bat do most of the talking at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium, smashing a blistering 93 off just 38 balls as RR chased down 221 with ease. Opening alongside stand-in captain Yashasvi Jaiswal, the teenager helped RR race to 71 without loss in the powerplay before taking complete control of the chase after Jaiswals dismissal. He brought up his fifty in just 23 balls and later became the first Indian batter in IPL history to hit 50 sixes in a single season. He was eventually dismissed in the 14th over but not before taking the game away from LSG and putting RR on the brink of victory. Can't really explain it; words are not sufficient. They can't do justice to the kind of ability this young boy, this young prodigy, possesses. Some of those shots were extraordinary, to say the least. To hit over the cover boundary on a consistent basis, against pace, against spin, and whenever the ball was dug in short, was exceptional, Bangar told JioStar. The teenage batter's latest achievement made him the youngest player in IPL history to reach 500 runs in a season, beating Rishabh Pant, who hit the same milestone at 20 in 2018. Now, with 574 runs in IPL 2026, Sooryavanshi set a new record with a strike rate of 236.3, the highest ever in an IPL season for a player with over 500 runs, surpassing Andre Russells 204.8 in 2019 and Abhishek Sharmas 202.0 this season. Can't really explain it; words are not sufficient. They can't do justice to the kind of ability this young boy, this young prodigy, possesses. Some of those shots were extraordinary, to say the least. To hit over the cover boundary on a consistent basis, against pace, against spin, and whenever the ball was dug in short, was exceptional, Bangar told JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After Sooryvanshi's dismissal, Dhruv Jurel, who scored his fifth fifty of the season, and Donovan Ferreira added the finishing touches to help RR over the finish line and keep them firmly in the IPL 2026 playoffs race. Article Source: IANS

Bangladesh Create History with 2-0 Test Series Sweep Over Pakistan as Taijul Islam Stars

Spinner Taijul Islam took six wickets to lead Bangladesh to a 78-run win over Pakistan in the second Test and clinch a famous 2-0 series win on Wednesday. Pakistan, who started the fifth day on 316-7 while chasing a record 437, were bowled out for 328 in the first session in Sylhet after Mohammad Rizwan hit a valiant 94. It was Bangladesh's first Test series win at home against Pakistan and a second successive sweep after their 2-0 triumph on Pakistani soil in 2024. Wicketkeeper Rizwan kept Pakistan in the hunt for an unlikely win with a 166-ball stay after the visitors had slumped to 162-5 on day four. Rizwan put on an eighth-wicket partnership of 54 with overnight partner Sajid Khan, who made 28. Taijul broke through to dismiss Sajid for his 18th Test five-wicket haul and Shoriful Islam had Rizwan caught in the next over to end Pakistan's resistance. Taijul took the final wicket of Khurram Shahzad to return figures of 6-120 and trigger Bangladesh celebrations. The left-arm spinner also took 3-67 during Pakistan's first innings 232. Bangladesh wicketkeeper Litton Das scored 126 in their first-innings 278. Veteran batsman Mushfiqur Rahim scored 137 in the second to guide Bangladesh to 390, with contributions from Mahmudul Hasan Joy (52) and Litton (69). Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bangladesh, led by Najmul Hossain Shanto, won the opening Test by 104 runs.

Princes ODI Call-up Is A Well-deserved Reward, Says Umesh Yadav On Young Pacers Rise

Lucknow Super Giants: Indias pace stalwart Umesh Yadav has heaped praise on the young Lucknow Super Giants bowler Prince Yadav, asserting that the rising pacer fully deserved his maiden ODI call-up. The BCCI announced on Tuesday that Prince has been included in Indias squad for the one-off Test and three-match ODI series against Afghanistan at home, scheduled next month, following an impressive IPL 2026 campaign. Prince Yadav's ODI call-up is a well-deserved reward for his performances this IPL season. He has put in serious hard work over the last year. What stands out is the variety he brings to his bowling. He knows exactly when to swing the ball and when to hit the hard length. That kind of game awareness is rare in young bowlers. He is not afraid to bowl bouncers. Whenever he senses the batter is comfortable, he goes short and asks a different question. That is a valuable skill, especially in white-ball cricket, he said. In addition to pace and aggression, Prince Yadav boasts a repertoire of deliveries that make him a tricky proposition for batters. He also has an accurate yorker and a well-disguised slower ball that often catches batters off guard. But his inswing is his real weapon. The way he got Virat Kohli with an in-swinging delivery was pure class, Umesh remarked. Prince Yadav's ODI call-up is a well-deserved reward for his performances this IPL season. He has put in serious hard work over the last year. What stands out is the variety he brings to his bowling. He knows exactly when to swing the ball and when to hit the hard length. That kind of game awareness is rare in young bowlers. He is not afraid to bowl bouncers. Whenever he senses the batter is comfortable, he goes short and asks a different question. That is a valuable skill, especially in white-ball cricket, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I am genuinely happy to see him get his first India call-up. He has the talent, the skills, and the mindset to go a long way. If he stays fit and keeps learning, he can become a great asset for Indian cricket, Umesh added. Article Source: IANS

It's Weird Not Seeing Healy Slashing Balls, But We've Got A Deep Order To Fill That Gap: Litchfield

T20 World Cup: As Australia gears up for the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026, former skipper Alyssa Healy left a notable gap at the top of the order, with the onus now on emerging leaders to fill the void. Left-hand batter Phoebe Litchfield said that she is well aware of the expectations on her and the teammates and is raring to go at the marquee event. There's a little bit of pressure (on us), but also we've played a few games (without Healy) and I think she must have been injured in a couple of those Ashes games as well, and potentially the New Zealand series, where we've played most of our T20 cricket in the past since the World Cup, Litchfield told ICC Digital. We will miss her, but I think we've had a few practices now without the fireworks (from Healy) up at the top of the order so we're getting used to it. It is a bit weird not seeing her behind the stumps and slashing balls over cover, but our team has adapted well. And the beauty of our side is we've got a really, really deep order and people can fill that gap. But it is tough, and especially for fans of Australian cricket, to see her go, she added. Litchfield is also determined to ensure seven-time champions Australia avoid a repeat of their early exit in 2024, when the Proteas halted their title ambitions in the semifinals. We will miss her, but I think we've had a few practices now without the fireworks (from Healy) up at the top of the order so we're getting used to it. It is a bit weird not seeing her behind the stumps and slashing balls over cover, but our team has adapted well. And the beauty of our side is we've got a really, really deep order and people can fill that gap. But it is tough, and especially for fans of Australian cricket, to see her go, she added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And I think the way that the T20 format is going these days, yeah, it's exciting. You just got to take the ball, take the game by the scruff of the neck and run with it. Every major tournament's a real priority for our group and there's a lot of excitement with a world fixture and I am really pumped, she added. Article Source: IANS

I Enjoy Batting At No. 3, Allows Me To Play The Way I Want: Litchfield

Last T20 World Cup: As the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 edges closer, Australian batter Phoebe Litchfield is preparing to shoulder a significant role in her teams quest for a seventh title. Known for her dynamic batting and innovative switch hits, the 23-year-old is keenly aware that this tournament represents an opportunity to consolidate her reputation on the global stage. Litchfield has been a standout performer in 1 and bilateral cricket, with her 119-run innings against India in last years Womens Cricket World Cup1 semifinals. But, she is yet to find the consistency in T20Is. I have been speaking to Moon (Beth Mooney), speaking to Midge (Alyssa Healy) and even Pez (Ellyse Perry) about how they go about it. Last T20 World Cup, I was a bit further down the (batting) order, and T20I cricket is tough sometimes, especially when you're starting. (I am trying to) learn a few tricks there and also just to know how to put an innings together in the T20 format. It's a bit of a different art to the 50-over (ODIs), so I am trying to learn on the go and I am really excited for the challenge, Litfield told ICC Digital. While Litchfield admits her preference is to open at the T20I level. In-form Mooney and Georgia Voll occupy the top spots, meaning Litchfield is now entrusted with batting at No.3. (I am trying to) learn a few tricks there and also just to know how to put an innings together in the T20 format. It's a bit of a different art to the 50-over (ODIs), so I am trying to learn on the go and I am really excited for the challenge, Litfield told ICC Digital. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And I find a lot of freedom in that role because I've got the likes of Georgia Voll, Beth Mooney and Ellyse Perry kind of either side of me. So I know that we bat so deep and it allows me the freedom to come out and play the way I want to play and take the game on, which is what we ask for as a team, she added. Article Source: IANS

Tennis icon Billie Jean King earns college degree at 82

The 82-year-old sports and equality icon received her Bachelor of Arts in History from Cal State Los Angeles on May 18

'We are a f**king good team' - Rishabh Pant

LSG have won only four of their 13 matches in IPL 2026

Sooryavanshi's stunning 93 takes RR closer to IPL playoffs

After a slow start, Sooryavanshi brought out the fireworks to practically make a mockery of a chase of 221

IPL 2026: Frustrated Rishabh Pant Allegedly Uses 'F-word' On National TV After 7-wicket Defeat To RR

Frustrated Rishabh Pant: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pant delivered a blunt and straightforward assessment after his sides seven-wicket defeat to Rajasthan Royals at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Tuesday, insisting that his side remains a f***ing good team despite slipping to another high-scoring loss in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. LSG, though eliminated from the play-offs race, posted a formidable 220/5 in 20 overs on a batting-friendly surface, but Rajasthan Royals overhauled the total in just 19.1 overs, as Donovan Ferreiras late strike sealed the chase at 225/3. Despite the defeat, Pant remained firm in his belief in the squads quality and character, stressing that results do not define their internal confidence. We are proud as a team regardless of what our situation is right now. The kind of team we have, we know we can win this. Regardless of anything, we are confident enough as a team and as individuals. It hasnt gone our way, and everyone knows that, but that doesnt take away the fact that we are a f***ing good team, the LSG skipper said after the loss. While acknowledging the opposition's quality of execution, Pant felt his side missed out on a slightly higher total after a strong start. I think there are a few ways to look at it. In the middle overs and then in the last over, the way Archer bowled, I think it was really good. But we could have actually scored five or ten runs more on this kind of wicket when you get that kind of start, and we just couldnt capitalise in the last over, Pant said. On the broader challenge of defending totals on such surfaces, Pant highlighted the limited margin for error and the importance of simplicity in execution under pressure. Its definitely a difficult one for sure because you always want to back your bowlers, but sometimes its hard. On a wicket like this, there is less margin for the bowlers, and having too many suggestions doesnt work out. Sometimes you have to keep a simple plan, keep focusing on one ball at a time, and just try to execute the plan, he added. Pant also pointed to the value of experience in crunch situations, noting how difficult it is to replace seasoned performers in high-pressure phases of the game. Experience is something youre always going to miss, regardless of whether things go good or bad, because experience cant be earned overnight. It takes years for people to gain that experience, and definitely in pressure situations, that is one thing which keeps you ahead for sure, he said. Pant also pointed to the value of experience in crunch situations, noting how difficult it is to replace seasoned performers in high-pressure phases of the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Definitely because of the left-handers. They had been batting for a brief period of time and exposing a left-arm spinner; we didnt want that, especially because Rathi was there in the side, so why take a chance on Shahbaz when Rathi is there in the side? he explained. Article Source: IANS

All-out attack for Tahuhu as retirement fades into background

World Cup last-chance a fleeting thought as big picture takes over for White Ferns seamer

IPL 2026: Sooryavanshi, Jurel Power RR To Clinical 7-wicket Win Over LSG

Lucknow Super Giants: Rajasthan Royals (RR) pulled off a sensational chase at the Sawai Mansingh Stadium on Tuesday, overhauling the 221-run target set by Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) with five balls to spare, riding on opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshis 93 and a composed yet explosive 53 not out from Dhruv Jurel in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 in Jaipur. In a match that swung between brute force and calculated composure, RRs batters dismantled LSGs attack and ensured there were no late stumbles as they jumped to fourth place in the points table, thereby keeping themselves alive in the playoff race. Chasing 221, RR began in ruthless fashion. Yashasvi Jaiswal set the tone immediately, carving and pulling Akash Singh for a string of boundaries in a 23-run opening over that set the tone for a powerplay dominated by the hosts. The introduction of pace only fueled the aggression, with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, playing yet another fearless knock, joining the assault with clean hitting over cover and mid-wicket, as RR raced to 84/1 in the first eight overs. Jaiswals 43 off 23 balls ended when he edged Akash Maharaj Singh to Rishabh Pant, but by then the damage had been done. Sooryavanshi, despite a cautious start, dominated the middle overs, bringing up yet another rapid fifty in a season already defined by record-breaking strike rates. His innings of 93 off 38 balls, laced with 10 sixes, briefly placed RR in cruise control before Mohsin Khan dismissed him against the run of play. Even as LSG attempted to claw back through disciplined spells from Digvesh Singh Rathi and Mohsin, Jurel anchored the chase with remarkable calmness. He rotated strike intelligently, punished loose deliveries, and ensured the required rate never spiralled out of control. His partnership-building with Lhuan-dre Pretorius and later Donovan Ferreira steadied RR after brief hiccups. The match, however, was far from straightforward. LSG struck at crucial moments, Sooryavanshi fell just short of a century, while a dramatic 16th over saw a sharp run-out of Pretorius, injecting late tension into the chase. Yet RRs depth and composure held firm. With 33 needed off the last five overs, Jurel took charge, guiding RR through the final phase with controlled aggression. Ferreira provided a brief but vital hand before setting the stage for a composed finish. The decisive moment arrived in the 19th over. With RR needing just two off the final delivery, Donovan Ferreira stepped out to Shahbaz Ahmed and launched a clean, authoritative six over long-off to seal the chase emphatically. LSGs bowling effort was undermined by inconsistency, with Mayank Yadav and Prince Yadav showing flashes but lacking sustained control. Mohsin Khan (1/24) and Digvesh Singh Rathi offered resistance, but the total proved too small to defend against RRs relentless top order. The decisive moment arrived in the 19th over. With RR needing just two off the final delivery, Donovan Ferreira stepped out to Shahbaz Ahmed and launched a clean, authoritative six over long-off to seal the chase emphatically. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lucknow Super Giants 220/5 in 20 overs (Mitchell Marsh 96, Josh Inglis 60; Yash Raj Punja 2-35, Jofra Archer 1-39) lost to Rajasthan Royals 225/3 in 19.1 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 93, Dhruv Jurel 53, Yashasvi Jaiswal 43; Mohsin Khan 1-31) by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi at No. 1 in Orange Cap race

The top man on the Orange Cap table at IPL 2026 changed twice during the course of a high-scoring contest between Rajasthan Royals and Lucknow Super Giants

'There Is So Much To Learn From BCCI And IPL...' Leander Paes Tells Other Sports' NSFs In The Country

National Sports Federations: Indian tennis legend Leander Paes has asked the various National Sports Federations (NSF) around the country to learn from the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) and the Indian Premier League (IPL) how to professionalise sports not only at the top of the pyramid but also at the grassroots level. When you look at that, there is so much to learn from the BCCI and the IPL. I think every other sporting governance can come together and work with the IPL and BCCI, and learn from them how to professionalise sportnot just at the top of the pyramid where you have the best athletes in the world, but also at the grassroots level, Paes told IANS on the sidelines of a press conference organised by the Tennis Premier League in Mumbai on Tuesday. While talking about the sports atmosphere in the country, the 52-year-old Paes, who has won eight men's doubles and ten mixed doubles Grand Slam titles in a career spanning nearly three decades, said sports like hockey, football, tennis, and badminton should follow the way the BCCI supports grassroots cricket. When you look at the BCCI supporting grassroots cricket, that is exactly what hockey, football, tennis, and badminton should also do, said the former India tennis player from Kolkata who recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party before the Assembly Elections in West Bengal. The Paes, who has seen the growth of all sports in the country in the last four decades, said being a professional athlete in India is very tough considering the high costs and little support. When you look at the BCCI supporting grassroots cricket, that is exactly what hockey, football, tennis, and badminton should also do, said the former India tennis player from Kolkata who recently joined the Bharatiya Janata Party before the Assembly Elections in West Bengal. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Paes is currently the brand ambassador of the GS Delhi Aces franchise in the Tennis Premier League. Article Source: IANS