Cricket

India Move Up To Fourth In WTC Points Table After Bangladesh's Loss To West Indies

World Test Championship: India gained a crucial place in the World Test Championship (WTC) points table after the West Indies defeated Bangladesh in the first Test match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium near Dhaka on Saturday. The Windies chased down a meagre total of 170 on Day 4 of the Test as Brandon King made an unbeaten 81, while No.4 Kavem Hodge also remained unscathed on 31. They helped the visitors hunt down the target in only 35.1 overs with eight wickets in hand. After the result, Bangladesh slipped to No.5 in the WTC standings as India moved up from fifth to fourth. West Indies remain eighth but have closed in on the seventh-ranked Sri Lankan side. Before the game, Bangladesh were fourth with a PCT of 55.56%, having won three of their six matches with one drawn game. India were fifth with a PCT of 51.52%, having bagged five wins and two draws in 11 matches. The Windies chased down a meagre total of 170 on Day 4 of the Test as Brandon King made an unbeaten 81, while No.4 Kavem Hodge also remained unscathed on 31. They helped the visitors hunt down the target in only 35.1 overs with eight wickets in hand. After the result, Bangladesh slipped to No.5 in the WTC standings as India moved up from fifth to fourth. West Indies remain eighth but have closed in on the seventh-ranked Sri Lankan side. Before the game, Bangladesh were fourth with a PCT of 55.56%, having won three of their six matches with one drawn game. India were fifth with a PCT of 51.52%, having bagged five wins and two draws in 11 matches in this WTC cycle. The Windies were eighth with a PCT of 20.83%. However, the Windies' victory has changed the standings. Bangladesh's PCT has dropped to 47.62%, and they fell behind India. The West Indies now have a PCT of 26.92% as they moved closer to Sri Lanka's PCT of 33.33%. Following the win, West Indies captain Roston Chase stated that the team wants to end the WTC cycle with a sixth or fifth place finish. Yeah, well, we came here with a goal to win these two Test matches to go up in the rankings. We want to finish at least sixth or fifth in the table. And to do that, we need to win these two matches, Chase said after the win. In the match, left-arm finger-spinner Jomel Warrican and Roston Chase ruled the roost in both innings. Bangladesh batted first and made 272, with opener Shadman Islam making 105. Warrican picked up a five-wicket haul as he made life difficult for the Bangladesh players. In reply, the Windies made 245 on the back of half-centuries from John Campbell and Tagenarine Chanderpaul and contributions from Justin Greaves (46) and Chase (43). Off-spinner Nayeem Hasan picked up 4-33. In the match, left-arm finger-spinner Jomel Warrican and Roston Chase ruled the roost in both innings. Bangladesh batted first and made 272, with opener Shadman Islam making 105. Warrican picked up a five-wicket haul as he made life difficult for the Bangladesh players. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Rabada and Harmer share six as South Africa close in on 2-1 series win

Australia lost seven wickets in the opening session of the fifth day and are in danger of being bowled out for under 100 for a second time in the series

Rabada Scripts History, Becomes Fastest Bowler To 350 Test Wickets

Cape Town Test: South African fast bowler Kagiso Rabada scripted history during the second innings of the third Test against Australia at Newlands here on Saturday by completing his 350 wickets in Test cricket on Day 5 of the Cape Town Test, becoming the quickest bowler to reach the milestone in terms of balls taken. The Proteas speedster achieved the feat when he got the prized wicket of Aussie star Travis Head in the 288-run defence in the series-deciding Test. He lured Head into a drive with a fuller ball outside off. The Aussie opener went for a drive and edged it behind for Marco Jansen to grab it in gully as the Proteas went up in celebration. The scalp helped Rabada complete his 350th wicket in the format, and he is now the quickest bowler to get there in terms of balls taken. The Proteas speedster has taken 350 Test wickets in 13808 balls, surpassing the previous fastest, Dale Steyn, who is his compatriot. Fewest balls to 350 Test wickets: 13808 - Kagiso Rabada* 14719 - Dale Steyn 14905 - Waqar Younis 16285 - Malcolm Marshall 16908 - Mitchell Starc Meanwhile, Rabada achieved the feat in 75 Test matches, which is the joint fourth-fewest among fast bowlers, alongside West Indies legend Malcolm Marshall. The record is jointly held by Richard Hadlee and Steyn, both of whom achieved the feat in 69 Tests. Quickest fast bowler to 350 Test wickets (among pacers): 69 - Richard Hadlee / Dale Steyn 70 - Dennis Lillee 74 - Glenn McGrath 75 - Malcolm Marshall / KG Rabada 78 - Waqar Younis 79 - Imran Khan Rabada provided the Proteas with a rollicking start with the ball on Day 5. He got Matt Renshaw and Marnus Labuschagne in the first over itself. Rabada nicked behind Renshaw on the third ball of the innings as the Aussie opener tried to guide it on the leg side but got an edge for Ryan Rickelton to pouch it behind. 79 - Imran Khan Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Muzumdar's Big Claim: India Women Poised to Rule White-Ball Cricket

Head coach Amol Muzumdar believes the Indian women's cricket team is poised to dominate white-ball formats within two years, citing a strong talent pipeline from age-group cricket. He emphasizes a coaching philosophy focused on winning, discipline, and intense practice, drawing parallels to his Mumbai cricket upbringing. Muzumdar also highlights team unity and a positive dressing room atmosphere as crucial for success, similar to factors behind India's ODI World Cup win last November.

'Will you play Sooryavanshi only when someone is injured?'

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi made way for Ishan Kishan despite scoring a blistering 45 from 19 balls in India's thumping six-wicket victory in the third T20I against New Zealand.

Dhruv Jurel, Devdutt Padikkal star after Yashasvi Jaiswal flops again vs New Zealand A

India A captain Dhruv Jurel stood firm against a challenging New Zealand A bowling attack, guiding his team to 291 for seven on the opening day of the second tour match at Hagley Oval . The keeper-batter remained unbeaten on 99 at stumps, as India A are in a good position to build a competitive first-innings total after a difficult middle session.

Kagiso Rabada breaks Dale Steyn's world record with early twin blows in third Test vs Australia

South Africa ace pacer Kagiso Rabada broke Dale Steyns world record in the fourth innings of the third Test against Australia at Newlands in Cape Town. Chasing 288 runs to win the match and the...

Twenty Seasons On, Ellyse Perry Still Wants To Be a Better Version Of Herself

Big Bash League: Nearly two decades after she first played for Australia as a 16-year-old, premier all-rounder Ellyse Perry said she still goes into every day trying to be a better player than she was the day before. Ellyse, 35, is now in her 20th season of playing professional cricket. She marked its start by hitting 58, a knock that anchored the Sydney Sixers chase in their last-ball win over the Brisbane Heat in the Womens Big Bash League (WBBL) opener at the Allan Border Field. I just like to be a better version than what I am today, and thats a challenge every day. Thats really fun to take on and you learn lots as you go so, yeah, hopefully if or whenever I finish playing, I can be a better player than what I was when I started, that will be awesome, Ellyse was quoted as saying by cricket.com.au on Saturday. Ellyse was named the ICC womens cricketer of the decade for 2011 to 2020 and has won the World Player of the Year award thrice. She was the first cricketer, male or female, to complete the double of 1,000 runs and 100 wickets in T20Is, and she has more than 3,000 runs and over 150 wickets in ODIs. Asked how she stays hungry after so many years, the dual international, who also played for the Matildas at the FIFA Womens World Cup, said the younger players around her keep pushing her. Oh, its pretty easy because theres so many great players around that its pretty hard to keep up most of the time. The creativity (among the younger players) is phenomenal and just seeing that is motivation in itself to try and keep pace, but also try and continue to contribute to whatever teams youre a part of - and I love that. I also love just being fit and active and healthy and being a professional sportsperson kind of leads to that. So I dont have any special kind of goals or secrets or anything like that. Just amazing amount of support and Im just fortunate, she added. Her routine has barely changed since her teenage years. Ellyse, who will turn out for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the 2027 WPL, said she still spends as much time in the nets as she did when she was dreaming of wearing the Australian colours, and that batting practice gives her a rare moment of calm. Batting for me, especially in the nets, is probably a little bit like meditation in a way. You dont have your phone attached to you. Youre sort of down there by yourself just hitting balls. So I really enjoy that. I just love training with the girls as well. Like bowling in the nets or out on the field, its great fun. And crickets the summer sport too, so you get to do it under the Australian sun, which is pretty nice, she added. Batting for me, especially in the nets, is probably a little bit like meditation in a way. You dont have your phone attached to you. Youre sort of down there by yourself just hitting balls. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

India Could Have Used Kuldeep Yadav: Ex India Star Criticises Team Selection Against New Zealand

Former Indian cricketer Ambati Rayudu has questioned India's decision to leave Kuldeep Yadav out of the playing XI for the fourth T20I against New Zealand.

All Of Us Were Very Excited': Shubhangi Kulkarni Recalls Indias First Womens Test In 1976

ODI World Cup: Exactly fifty years after she walked out at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru for Indias first womens Test against the West Indies, Shubhangi Kulkarni still remembers how excited the dressing room was that morning. The match also marked the first international game played by India womens cricket team. All of us were very excited. We were all very young, mostly college-going girls around 17 or 18 years old. We were just getting exposed to international competition, and all of us were thrilled to be playing international matches, Shubhangi was quoted as saying by bcci.tv as Indian womens cricket marks its golden jubilee on Saturday. In that game, Shubhangi, a leg-spinner from Pune, became the third-youngest debutant in womens Test history at 17 years and 104 days. She took 5-48 in the first innings and finished the match with figures of 7-76. The squad had trained under former India batter Lala Amarnath, and the excitement came with a fair amount of self-belief. We had a camp before the series with Lala Amarnath, and then we played the West Indies team, which was known for having good fast bowlers. We thought our spinners were very good, and we were really looking forward to the competition. The first Test match was very memorable for me because I got five wickets. It was the first time I was bowling to international cricketers. I had just learned a few tricks and was trying them out, she added. The excitement turned to celebration in the fourth Test at Patnas Moin-ul-Haq Stadium. Shubhangi took 3-43 and 4-14 as India won a Test match for the first time. Her 23 wickets in the six-match series are still a joint record for the most in a womens Test series. The kind of response we got from the crowd was something we had never anticipated. After we won, the crowd response was so overwhelming that it took us a long time to get back to the hotel because the crowds wouldnt allow the bus to move. We kept signing autographs. Initially, people came out of curiosity just to see us play. But once they started watching, they appreciated our skills and realised that girls could play cricket too. It took people a lot of time to accept us playing the sport, recalled Shubhangi. For many players, she said, the first hurdle was at home, and the second was money. The biggest challenge for most girls was getting permission from home to play cricket. Parents were worried about the hard ball causing injuries, or that playing for long hours in the sun would make the girls dark. Another major challenge was funding. We had to spend money from our own pockets to travel for domestic events, often paying our own train fares. We stayed in dormitories and travelled in unreserved or second-class train compartments, sometimes carrying our own food to save money, she added. Shubhangis international career lasted 15 years. She played 17 consecutive Tests, the seventh-longest run in the format, and bowled 3,329 deliveries, ninth on the all-time list. She took 60 Test wickets with five five-wicket hauls, a joint world record, and her 16 stumpings are the second-most in womens Tests. She also took 38 ODI wickets at an economy rate of 3.49. Her best innings came on her captaincy debut against England at Collingham in 1986. With India at 105/5, she made a career-best 118 and added 106 for the eighth wicket with Minoti Desai, the fifth-highest eighth-wicket stand in womens Tests, as India reached 323. She received the Arjuna Award in 1985. Off the field, as honorary secretary of the Womens Cricket Association of India (WCAI), Shubhangi helped bring about its merger with the BCCI in 2006. She credited former BCCI president Sharad Pawar with making that happen. That is where things changed for womens cricket in India and that is when the girls started getting the facilities. Those were challenging times. But looking back at where we are today, it gives us a sense of satisfaction that what we did in the beginning has borne fruit. She credited ICC chairman Jay Shah, the former BCCI secretary, and the present board administration with speeding up the games growth, adding that todays players have support her generation could not have imagined. The facilities that the BCCI is providing to women cricketers are excellent now. If you compare it to our time, when we played on college grounds, club grounds, and uneven surfaces, today these girls are playing on top-class grounds, which significantly improves fielding and overall play. The facilities provided, such as state teams staying in four-star or five-star hotels and travelling by air, are a stark contrast to our struggles. The equal match fees and the central contracts that the girls are getting allow them to focus entirely on their game without worrying about finances. They are well-provided for, and the BCCIs support has completely transformed the sport. The most significant change has been the introduction of the Womens Premier League (WPL), which has opened up numerous opportunities for domestic players to play alongside international stars and learn from them in the dressing room, she said. India won their first ICC Womens ODI World Cup on November 2 last year, and Shubhangi said the title meant as much to former players as to the team. It was a dream come true for most of us former players because winning a World Cup is something we all wanted. Seeing this team achieve it gave me immense satisfaction. The team performed exceptionally well; they gave their 100% and never gave up. There were challenges, but they overcame them, making it a total team effort. The way they played, hats off to Harmanpreet and the entire team. Shubhangi further said she valued the way Harmanpreet Kaurs side has honoured the pioneers. It is very nice of the current players to appreciate and recognise the efforts of the earlier players. During our time, we played for the love and passion of the game. It felt like they truly valued all of that, and I am really proud that the team felt that way. She also recalled the contribution of the founders of the womens game in India: Mahendra Kumar Sharma, Pramila Bai Chavan and Chandra Tripathi. In 1973, when the organisation was formed and Mr Sharma registered it, he actually gave the girls a platform to play a sport and turn what had been a hobby into a national sport, she said. Looking ahead, Shubhangi signed off by welcoming Indias hosting of the inaugural ICC Womens Champions Trophy in February 2027. I think the timing is absolutely right for hosting the first-ever Womens Champions Trophy. After winning the World Cup last year and then the match at Lords, I think we have the momentum, and this is the fastest-growing sport in India. She also recalled the contribution of the founders of the womens game in India: Mahendra Kumar Sharma, Pramila Bai Chavan and Chandra Tripathi. In 1973, when the organisation was formed and Mr Sharma registered it, he actually gave the girls a platform to play a sport and turn what had been a hobby into a national sport, she said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Will India Drop Sanju Samson? Selection Dilemma Looms Ahead Of Final T20I

Even though the Indian team management is steadfast in their backing of the established line, the Auckland shellacking might have triggered the thoughts of making some tactical rejigging to the playing eleven in the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand on Sunday.

Rabada's early strikes leave Australia reeling on Day 5

Kagiso Rabada's devastating three-wicket burst with the new ball on Day 5 of the third Test left Australia reeling at 32/3, chasing 288 for victory, and put South Africa firmly in control.

Yastika Bhatia Set For Brisbane Heat Debut After India's Zimbabwe Sweep

After being a part of India's 3-0 ODI series win over Zimbabwe in Vadodara, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia will link up with Brisbane Heat squad and is set to make her debut for the club against Sydney Thunder at the Drummoyne Oval in the ongoing WBBL.

Gannon five-for trumps Harper, Kellaway half-centuries

Harper and Harris added 102 for the first wicket before Victoria suffered a collapse

Ajinkya Rahane points out potential changes in India's playing XI ahead of fifth NZ T20I

The stage is set for the fifth and final T20I of the ongoing series between India and New Zealand. The two sides will be taking on each other at Seddon Park in Hamilton on November 1st. It is worth noting that the Indian team has already won the series, winning the first three T20Is after some excellent cricket .

The Building Has Come Up Beautifully, Says Diana Edulji As Indian Womens Cricket Team Turns 50

ODI World Cup: The foundation laid by Indias women cricketers 50 years ago has grown into a structure that now holds an ODI World Cup title, said former captain Diana Edulji on the occasion of 50 years since the side played its first official international match. India played their first official international match on October 31, 1976, against West Indies in Bangalore, the opening game of a six-Test series. Shanta Rangaswamy captained the side, and Diana played alongside her sister Behroze in the match ending in a draw. This was the beginning, and the journey has been wonderful. I cant believe that 50 years is already around the corner, and Im very happy that we will be able to see this day. We made sure that we played, whatever the conditions. And today, I think, through the foundation we laid, the building has come up beautifully, Diana was quoted as saying by bcci.tv. on Saturday. She recalled that early players faced every kind of hardship, from poor facilities to little money, but never considered walking away from the sport. We went through what I would describe as a complete overhaul. We went through the rigmarole. You name it, and we faced it. It was that difficult, but not once did we ever think, No, lets stop. Never. You wont believe it. Because we were not used to that pace, we didnt have a very firm grip on the bat, and when they (the West Indies) bowled, the bat would fly out of our hands. Thats when we realised that Indian cricket had a lot of catching up to do to match the standards of other teams, added Diana. Despite that, India, coached by former mens batter Lala Amarnath at that time, still won the fourth Test in Patna, the countrys first international victory, and Diana hit the winning runs. The most pleasurable moment for me was hitting the winning run in the Test match we won in Patna. We had a good crowd, which was something we could not believe. About 30,000 to 35,000 people were in that stadium. When the crowd erupted after the victory, it was something we had seen only in mens cricket. People ran onto the ground, and we were completely surrounded. We were so overwhelmed, but it was such a great feeling. In fact, I lost my bat and gloves; they were simply snatched away, but it was worth it. I can still picture that experience. Even after 50 years, that memory remains fixed in my mind, she added. Diana became Indias first ODI captain and the first to lead the country in a World Cup. She was the first Indian bowler to take 100 wickets in womens international cricket, and remains the only bowler to have sent down more than 5,000 balls in womens Tests. She was the first Indian woman cricketer to receive the Padma Shri and the first Indian woman inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. Over the next five decades, India reached several World Cup finals and won a Commonwealth Games silver medal, two consecutive Asian Games golds and eight Asia Cup titles. They also won the first womens Test played at Lords. Diana said the 2017 World Cup final, which India lost to England at Lords, was when the country began to pay attention to the women's team. All of them became household names during that time. Lords was packed, and the match was watched by people all over the world. The Prime Minister of India invited a team that had lost the final to his residence for high tea. That showed that this team had arrived, and womens cricket really moved forward. Diana served on the Committee of Administrators (CoA) that ran the BCCI briefly and recalled how the panel began the push for equal treatment, which led to current ICC chairman Jay Shah implementing it in his time as the BCCI secretary through pay parity and the launch of the Womens Premier League (WPL). We did our bit as members of the Committee of Administrators (CoA) to help women cricketers become more equal and give them the benefits that men were receiving. We then handed it over to Mr Jay Shah, who took it forward. He ensured that the WPL was launched, and I think that was another turning point for womens cricket. Mr Jay Shahs vision has helped womens cricket prosper a lot. Undoubtedly, he has made a significant contribution as BCCI Secretary and, even more so, as ICC Chairman. He has taken the game to the global stage. He has helped bring cricket into the Olympics, which is something we would never have dreamt of. India is now slated to host the inaugural ICC Womens Champions Trophy in February 2027. Now, with the Champions Trophy coming in, you can see how the game is expanding, and that is largely due to the ICCs genuine commitment to promoting womens cricket. We have had people promoting the game before, but not at this level. So, hats off to Mr Jay Shah and his team at the ICC, and to the BCCI as well, added Diana. Monday, November 2, will be the first anniversary of India winning the first ICC Womens World Cup, and Diana recalled seeing that winning moment from the stands last year. It was a great, great feeling. I was so happy to be watching it live. I was at the stadium, and this was the dream we had, because that was the only trophy missing from the cabinet. The BCCI, after doing so much for women cricketers, deserved this trophy. India is now slated to host the inaugural ICC Womens Champions Trophy in February 2027. Now, with the Champions Trophy coming in, you can see how the game is expanding, and that is largely due to the ICCs genuine commitment to promoting womens cricket. We have had people promoting the game before, but not at this level. So, hats off to Mr Jay Shah and his team at the ICC, and to the BCCI as well, added Diana. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Bird winds back the clock to put Tasmania in command over NSW

Nic Maddinson fell cheaply on his return from Test duty as the visitors lurched towards a potential follow on

'Kuldeep A Very Good Bowler, But Not Up To Mark With Bat': Pujara On Bowler's Limited ODI Presence

New Delhi: Former India cricketer Cheteshwar Pujara opined that Kuldeep Yadav's limited capability with the bat is a key reason behind his sparse appearances in India's ODI side as the team wants a cushion in the lower-middle order. India have given Kuldeep limited games this year in ODIs as he has had to sit out of five of the 12 matches and mostly in overseas conditions. He was in India's squad for the three-match ODI series against England but had to warm the bench as India played Shivam Dube at No.8 and Axar Patel and Washington Sundar as their spinners. India have also generally preferred playing Harshit Rana at No.8, and although he is currently injured, he remains in the scheme of things for longer period. Speaking on Kuldeep's limited appearances, Pujara stated that the bowler is not that capable with the bat, which remains the key reason for him to warm the benches. I think in ODI cricket, you need depth, especially when you play outside India. So, when you look at any team, their balance is better only when they have the option of batting at number seven and number eight. Number seven has to be an all-rounder, and number eight has to be a bowler who can bat a bit. With Kuldeep, he is a very good bowler, but his batting is not up to the mark. So, India are always looking at someone who can bat at number eight, Pujara told JioStar. Meanwhile, ex-India cricketer and former assistant coach Abhishek Nayar emphasised the importance of having five proper bowlers in the Playing XI, highlighting how Australia used the strategy during the World Cup 2023. In T20 cricket, I believe you need depth because you play attacking cricket. In ODI cricket, you have time to adapt, right? According to me, if you don't take wickets, no matter how long your batting line-up goes, very rarely will a team win a championship because of their seventh or eighth batsman. Number seven has to be an all-rounder, and number eight has to be a bowler who can bat a bit. With Kuldeep, he is a very good bowler, but his batting is not up to the mark. So, India are always looking at someone who can bat at number eight, Pujara told JioStar. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Will India bring in Kuldeep, Varun after Auckland thrashing?

Despite an unassailable 3-1 lead, the Indian team management is contemplating tactical changes for the fifth and final T20I against New Zealand in Hamilton, potentially bringing in Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and addressing concerns over Sanju Samson's form and bowling inconsistencies.

After ODI Series Win Over Zimbabwe, Yastika Bhatia To Make Brisbane Heat Debut In WBBL

WBBL Brisbane Heat Squad: After being a part of Indias 3-0 ODI series win over Zimbabwe in Vadodara, wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia will link up with Brisbane Heat squad and is set to make her debut for the club against Sydney Thunder at the Drummoyne Oval in the ongoing Womens Big Bash League (WBBL). Yastika being with the India ODI side, though she bagged a duck in the third and final game against Zimbabwe at the BCA Stadium, meant she wasnt available for the Heats season opener against the Sydney Sixers at Allan Border Field on Friday night. The Sixers won that game off the last ball after Australia left-arm pacer Lucy Hamilton bowled a superb final over. Yastika replaces Mikayla Wrigley in the Heats only change to the 13-member squad from that game starting at 2:40pm local time. Yastika was signed up by the club after veteran Australia left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Jess Jonassen was ruled out of the season with a neck injury. Yastika has played 28 T20Is and 29 ODIs for India so far. In July, she became the first woman to score a Test hundred at Lords, which is currently the high point of her international career. The left-handed batter is no stranger to the WBBL, having played for the Melbourne Stars in the WBBL two seasons ago. Apart from Yastika, Englands Sarah Glenn and Irelands Orla Prendergast are the Heats overseas recruits for the ongoing WBBL season. Another player in line for a Heat debut is 19-year-old fast bowler Catherine White. She was with the franchise last season as a local replacement player but did not play a match, and will make her WBBL debut if she is picked in the playing eleven. The left-handed batter is no stranger to the WBBL, having played for the Melbourne Stars in the WBBL two seasons ago. Apart from Yastika, Englands Sarah Glenn and Irelands Orla Prendergast are the Heats overseas recruits for the ongoing WBBL season. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Why was Bhuvneshwar Kumar not picked in India's fourth T20I against New Zealand? Former cricketer opines

The Indian team lost the fourth T20I of the ongoing series against New Zealand. The two sides met at Eden Park in Auckland for the clash on October 30th, batting first. New Zealand posted a...

Pakistan bowl in tri-series final with Shadab out

Sri Lanka made one change as well with Theekshana coming in for Malinga

Ashton Agar inspires WA to victory over two-time reigning champions SA

Agar took three wicket as WA bowled SA out for 316 on the final day to seal a 105-run win

'Jadeja Might Not Be Selected': Pujara On All-rounder; Nayar Calls Him 'insurance Policy'

ODI World Cup: Former Indian cricketers Cheteshwar Pujara and Abhishek Nayar discussed the future of all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, who has been facing selection rejections in some of the recent ODI series. The 37-year-old was not picked for the five-match ODI series against New Zealand, with Axar Patel being the first-choice left-arm finger spinner for the Men in Blue. With a year left for the ODI World Cup and Jadeja not getting a place in the Indian ODI team in overseas conditions, it raised eyebrows as to what his future holds for the World Cup. Speaking on his exclusion, Pujara pointed out that it might be the end of the road for Jadeja, as Axar seems to be above him in the pecking order. I believe so, because if you want to keep Ravindra Jadeja in ODI cricket, then he should have been selected. I'm sure it was communicated to him that he might not be selected because Axar Patel has been the main all-rounder in ODI cricket and is being given more opportunities. Looking at his age, I feel the team management might have told him that he is now only a part of Test cricket, so he should focus there, and that they are not looking at him for white-ball cricket. So, it could be the end of the road because, obviously, he has retired from T20 Internationals. I feel he might not be selected just for the ODIs, Pujara told JioStar. However, Nayar felt that Jadeja still remains the insurance policy for India, and he might be the backup for Axar in the World Cup. Jaddu might not come back into the team, but if someone gets injured, the first name that will come to mind will be Jaddu. Because after Axar, there is no one. The valid question right now would be: After Axar, who is the frontrunner? Currently, the frontrunner is Axar Patel, and after him, Jaddu is still your insurance policy. If something happens to Axar Patel before the World Cup, Ravindra Jadeja will come into the team, he said on the same show. However, Nayar felt that Jadeja still remains the insurance policy for India, and he might be the backup for Axar in the World Cup. Jaddu might not come back into the team, but if someone gets injured, the first name that will come to mind will be Jaddu. Because after Axar, there is no one. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Dinesh Karthik Has A Solution For Playing Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Without Dropping Sanju Samson In 5th India vs NZ T20I

India play the final T20I of a five-match series against New Zealand on Saturday. So far, Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma have played in all the matches

Dhruv Jurel Unbeaten On 99 As India A Fight Back Against New Zealand A In 2nd Unofficial Test

Skipper Dhruv Jurel made a solid unbeaten 99 after Devdutt Padikkal's breezy 80 as India A recovered well to score a strong 291 for seven against New Zealand A on the opening day of the four-day match on Saturday.

Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Live Score ODI Tri-Series Final

PAK vs SL Live Score ODI Tri-Series Final: Pakistan will face Sri Lanka in the final of the ODI tri-series at Lahore's Gaddafi Stadium.

South Africa vs Australia Live Score 3rd Test Day 5

South Africa vs AustraliaLive Updates 3rd Test: Australia will begin their chase of 288 on the final day of the series-deciding Cape Town Test against South Africa at Newlands.

'He's Playing For His Career': O'Keeffe On Labuschagne As Aussies Eye Cape Town Win

Cape Town Test: With so much on the line on the final day of a gripping Test series between South Africa and Australia, Australian cricket great Kerry O'Keeffe feels that Marnus Labuschagne will be batting to play for his career on Day 5 of the Cape Town Test on Saturday. The series is locked 1-1, and Australia need 288 to secure a famous win and keep the No.1 Test rankings. The visitors are without their talisman Steve Smith, as the new-generation batters Cameron Green, Josh Inglis and Alex Carey showed muscle in the first innings. Now with the series on the line after South Africa were bowled out for 387, Australia will want their batters to fire and hand them the series. O'Keeffe opined that Labuschagne, who has gone without scoring a Test century since 2023, will be playing for his career now in the second innings. I think hes playing for his career in this second innings, OKeeffe said, as quoted by foxsports.com.au. Hes been a marvellous player, but hes in a drought, and theyve given him a lot of opportunity to get out of it. It hasnt happened yet. Ex-Australian all-rounder Brendon Julian believed that uncertainty around the batter's future can give him freedom to play in the second innings. Hes got an advantage here to go; if theyre going to drop me, Im just going to go for it. Im going to play my shots, Julian told foxsports.com.au. Hes looked tentative. He hasnt looked settled at the crease. I think this is an opportunity for him just to let it go and swing hard. Thats what Id be doing, he added and opined that Labuschagne won't be playing the next Test match. I dont think hes going to play the next Test match in Perth, Julian said. Meanwhile, another Aussie great Michael Hussey has not written the batter off. Well, Id never say its the end of his Test career if he doesnt make runs this time, Hussey told foxsports.com.au. Hes looked tentative. He hasnt looked settled at the crease. I think this is an opportunity for him just to let it go and swing hard. Thats what Id be doing, he added and opined that Labuschagne won't be playing the next Test match. I dont think hes going to play the next Test match in Perth, Julian said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

2nd Unofficial Test: Jurel hits 99 not out as India A recover to 291/7 against NZ A

Digital Desk | Christchurch, Oct 31 (IANS) Skipper Dhruv Jurel stood firm with an unbeaten 99 to steer India A out of trouble and take them to 291/7 on the opening day of the second unofficial Test against New Zealand A at Hagley Oval on Saturday. Jurels composed knock, coupled with Devdutt Padikkals fluent 80, helped the visitors recover from a dramatic middle-order collapse after New Zealand A had seized control with a flurry of wickets. India As innings got off to a disastrous start when Fraser Sheat struck in the opening over, removing Yashasvi Jaiswal for a four-ball duck. However, Padikkal and Sai Sudharsan ensured there was no further damage before lunch, stitching together a 91-run partnership for the second wicket. Sudharsan looked comfortable during his 41 off 63 deliveries but departed shortly after the break, caught by Mitchell Hay off Jarrod McKay. Yash Rathods brief stay ended at 13 when he edged Brett Randell to the wicketkeeper, leaving India A at 131/3. Padikkal continued to dictate terms with an assured innings featuring 12 boundaries, bringing up a valuable half-century. His dismissal for 80, bowled by Sheat, triggered Indias biggest setback of the day as the visitors slipped from 137/3 to 137/5. Sheat struck twice in quick succession, trapping Smaran Ravichandran and Washington Sundar leg-before for ducks and eight respectively. With India A suddenly struggling at 160/6, Jurel took responsibility for rebuilding the innings. The wicketkeeper-batter found an important ally in Manav Suthar, adding 62 runs for the seventh wicket. Suthar contributed 22 before departing, but Jurel continued to hold the innings together. Akash Deep then provided valuable support at the other end as the pair frustrated the New Zealand A attack with an unbeaten 69-run partnership. Jurel moved to 99 not out, leaving him just one run short of a century at stumps, while Akash remained alongside him. Sheat was the standout bowler for the hosts, finishing with figures of 4-50 from 19 overs. Randell, McKay and Jayden Lennox claimed a wicket each. Brief scores: India A 291/7 in 88 overs (Dhruv Jurel 99*, Devdutt Padikkal 80; Fraser Sheat 4-50) vs New Zealand A.

Jemimah Rodrigues issues crucial injury update, set to return to action after setback; Check details

In a major development, star India womens batter Jemimah Rodrigues took to social media and issued a crucial injury update, in which she revealed that she has been declared fit from the hamstring injury that she sustained back in August.

Pak PM Trolled For Celebrating Win Over India

'I had to Google 'Hong Kong Sixes' just to see what it was, and it turns out to be basically organised gully cricket.'

West Indies need 170 to win after Chase five-for in Dhaka

Jomel Warrican also took a four-for to bowl out Bangladesh for 142

It's Win Or Lose: Ryan Rickelton Sets Stage For Blockbuster South Africa vs Australia Test Finale

The series-deciding final Test between South Africa and Australia is set for a thrilling finish on Saturday, with the series result, the No. 1 Test ranking and crucial World Test Championship points all at stake on the final day.

Auqib Nabi replaces Prasidh Krishna for New Zealand ODIs

Pace bowler Auqib Nabi has been added to the Indian squad for the first three ODIs against New Zealand, replacing the injured Prasidh Krishna, who failed to recover from a hamstring injury.

What A Fighter: Dhawan Hails Manishas Historic World Championships Gold

Senior World Championships Wrestling: Former India cricketer Shikhar Dhawan congratulated wrestler Manisha Bhanwala after she scripted history by becoming the first Indian to win a gold medal at the Senior World Championships Wrestling, praising her fighting spirit following an extraordinary comeback in the womens 59 kg final in Astana, Kazakhstan. From 0-6 down to becoming a World Champion! What a fighter, Manisha! Youve made the entire nation proud. Congratulations!, Dhawan wrote on X. Manisha produced a remarkable turnaround against the USAs Abigail Nette on Friday, overturning a six-point deficit to secure an 8-6 victory and deliver Indias maiden gold in the history of the Senior World Championships. The Indian wrestler endured a difficult start as Nette established a 5-0 advantage through a four-point throw and an additional point after Indias unsuccessful challenge. A subsequent caution against Manisha extended the Americans lead to 6-0. However, Manisha refused to surrender and opened her account with a stepout point before the break. She carried that momentum into the second period, executing a takedown to reduce the deficit. Another unsuccessful challenge from the American corner handed Manisha an additional point and an opportunity to attack from par terre. She capitalised with a two-point gut-wrench to level the scores at 6-6 before delivering the decisive pressure takedown to move ahead 8-6. Manisha then held her ground against Nettes attempts to regain the advantage and secured a memorable victory. Her journey to the final was equally impressive. She began her campaign with a 6-2 win over Canadas Laurence Beauregard in the pre-quarterfinals before defeating Mongolias Bolortuya Khurelkhuu in the semifinals to book her place in the gold-medal bout. She capitalised with a two-point gut-wrench to level the scores at 6-6 before delivering the decisive pressure takedown to move ahead 8-6. Manisha then held her ground against Nettes attempts to regain the advantage and secured a memorable victory. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder Script World Record With Twin Centuries, End 37-Year Drought

Ryan Rickelton (101) and Wiaan Mulder (115) stitched together a 154-run partnership for the sixth wicket, helping South Africa set a target of 287.

Auqib Nabi added to ODI squad for first three games against New Zealand after injury to Prasidh Krishna

The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) took centre stage and announced that pacer Auqib Nabi will be added to the Indian teams ODI squad for the first three ODIs of the series...

Auqib Nabi added to India squad for first three NZ ODIs

Digital Desk | Mumbai, Oct 31 (IANS) Jammu and Kashmir fast bowler Auqib Nabi has received an extended opportunity in Indias ODI setup after the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) included him in the squad for the first three matches of the five-game series against New Zealand, having initially been picked only for the final two games. The selection committees decision, announced on Saturday, means Nabi will now be available for the entire five-match series, which begins on November 4. His inclusion comes a day after Prasidh Krishna was ruled out of the tour, with the pacer requiring additional time to recover from a hamstring injury and regain the workload needed for competitive cricket. Nabis recent performances in New Zealand appear to have strengthened his case. The 29-year-old was among Indias standout bowlers in the opening unofficial Test between India A and New Zealand A at Lincoln last week, claiming six wickets and exploiting the assistance on offer from the surface. He was originally named in the India A squad for all three unofficial Tests but was subsequently withdrawn from the groups for the second and third matches. Before heading to New Zealand, Nabi also featured for Jammu and Kashmir in the Irani Cup against Rest of India, where he picked up four wickets. The call-up offers the right-arm seamer another opportunity to establish himself at the international level following an underwhelming start to his ODI career. Nabi made his debut against the West Indies in Guwahati on September 30 but endured a difficult outing, conceding 84 runs in 8.5 overs. He was left out of the playing XI for the third and final ODI in Mullanpur, with Mohammed Siraj replacing him. However, his domestic record provides a compelling case for another opportunity. Nabi was central to Jammu and Kashmirs historic maiden Ranji Trophy triumph in the 2025-26 season, finishing with 60 wickets and establishing himself as one of the competitions most effective fast bowlers. Meanwhile, Shubman Gill will captain India in the opening three ODIs, with Shreyas Iyer taking over leadership duties for the final two matches. Gill and wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul are scheduled to leave the squad after the third ODI to prepare for the subsequent two-match Test series. Indias updated ODI squad for the first three ODIs: Shubman Gill (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vc), KL Rahul (wk), Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Kishan (wk), Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy (only for the first ODI), Auqib Nabi. Indias ODI squad for fourth and fifth ODIs: Shreyas Iyer (c), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Tilak Varma, Ishan Kishan (wk, vc), Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Auqib Nabi, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Mohammed Siraj, Yash Thakur, Kuldeep Yadav

Former India cricketer heaps praise on NZ, credits them for their plan against Abhishek Sharma in fourth T20I

The Indian team lost the fourth T20I of the ongoing series against New Zealand . The teams met at Eden Park in Auckland for the clash, and the game saw the Black Caps bat first and post a total of 259 runs in the first innings after an exceptional performance with the bat.

Padikkal rescues India A as Jaiswal fails again

Devdutt Padikkal's fluent 80 runs helped India A recover from an early collapse against New Zealand A on Day 1 of the second unofficial Test, reaching 195/6 at stumps.

'Australia faces tough Day 5 chase on slow Newlands wicket'

Australia faces a challenging target of 288 runs against South Africa on a deteriorating Newlands wicket, with the home side's pace attack and spinner Simon Harmer expected to exploit the conditions to clinch the three-match Test series.

Shreyas Iyer reflects on what went wrong for India as New Zealand register dominant win in Auckland T20I

Team India continued its ongoing five-game series against New Zealand. The teams met in the fourth T20I of the series. The teams met at Eden Park in Auckland on October 30th, and New Zealand managed...

Rohit, Kohli Hit Nets Ahead of NZ ODIs

Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli are back in the nets, intensifying their preparations for the upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand, with an eye on the 2027 World Cup.

Glenn Phillips achieves massive feat as New Zealand breeze past India to win fourth T20I in Auckland

The Indian team took on New Zealand in the fourth T20I of the ongoing series. The two teams met at Eden Park in Auckland for the clash on October 30, and the game saw New...

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif's Post After Hong Kong Sixes Win Over India Has Social Media Talking

India and Pakistan faced off in a Hong Kong Sixes 2026 match on Friday, with the latter winning the match

'It's win or lose. No draw tomorrow': Rickelton anticipates gripping final day

Australia need 287 runs, South Africa need ten wickets, and the series is set for a fascinating conclusion

India at 50: Celebrating a milestone for womens cricket

It was on October 31 in 1976 that the first womens Test between India and the West Indies got underway at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru

Rickelton, Mulder centuries help Proteas set 288-run target for Australia

Digital Desk | Cape Town, Oct 30 (IANS) Centuries from Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder powered a magnificent lower-order fightback as South Africa scored 387 in their second innings, setting Australia a challenging target of 288 runs to win the series-deciding third Test of the ICC World Test Championship 2025/27 at Newlands in Cape Town on Friday. Resuming Day 4 of the third and final Test of the series at 140/4, South Africa built their innings around a monumental 154-run sixth-wicket partnership between Rickelton, who scored 101 off 219 balls, and Mulder, who made 115 off 221 deliveries. The pair frustrated Australia's bowling attack across two gruelling sessions, transforming South Africa's position after the hosts had lost Matthew Breetzke early in the morning. Breetzke, who resumed alongside Rickelton, looked to consolidate before Pat Cummins produced a sharp short delivery in the 67th over. The batter mistimed his pull and found Mitchell Starc, departing for 43 to leave South Africa at 181/5. Mulder then joined Rickelton and the duo took the attack to Australia, putting together a vital stand that gave the hosts a substantial lead to defend in the final innings. Rickelton brought up a gritty century, striking 12 boundaries, before being run out by Josh Inglis in the 120th over. Mulder continued to score freely, hitting 10 fours and four sixes in his 115-run knock. With Rickelton's dismissal, Australia appeared poised to wrap up the innings quickly, but Kagiso Rabada provided valuable support to Mulder from the other end, helping him reach his hundred. Cummins eventually dismissed Mulder as the last wicket, bringing South Africa's second innings to an end at 387 in 134.4 overs and leaving Australia with 288 runs to chase on the final day. For Australia, Starc was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3-65 in 24 overs, while captain Cummins (2-71) and veteran spinner Nathan Lyon (2-101) claimed two wickets apiece. South Africa had scored 329 in their first innings, before Australia responded with 429 to secure a crucial 100-run lead. With the three-match World Test Championship series locked at 1-1, the final day's chase will decide the outcome of the contest. Brief scores: South Africa 329 & 387 all out in 134.4 overs (Wiaan Mulder 115, Ryan Rickelton 101; Mitchell Starc 3-65, Pat Cummins 2-71) lead Australia 429 by 287 runs

Pakistan Face Party Poopers Sri Lanka For First Home ODI Tri-Series Win

Pakistan are aiming to win a tri-series on home soil for the first time but face a stiff challenge from party poopers Sri Lanka in the final in Lahore on Saturday. The hosts lost their three previous tri-series on home turf, finishing runners-up to Australia in 1994, Sri Lanka in 2004 and New Zealand last year. This time, Pakistan have won three matches on the trot -- two against England and one against Sri Lanka -- before losing to the latter in their final group game, bowled out for just 110. Head coach Mike Hesson admitted his side has yet to play at their best. To get three wins in a row was a good sign but I still don't think we have played our best game yet, said Hesson. Hopefully we are saving that for the final. Pakistan will hope misfiring opener Fakhar Zaman and star batter Babar Azam return to form, having scored 31 and 118 respectively in four matches. Sri Lanka shocked England last week by chasing down 430 -- the second-highest target in ODI history -- and gave them another scare in pursuit of a 387-run target before losing by 55 runs on Thursday. Skipper Kusal Mendis was bullish ahead of the weekend, saying: We are quite confident going into the final. Although the loss against England was disappointing, we have taken some valuable lessons from that game. For Sri Lanka, middle-order batter Pavan Rathnayake has been in sublime form, scoring two centuries against England and 79 runs against Pakistan. Mendis, whose side punctured the home atmosphere when they beat Pakistan by eight wickets at the same venue on Tuesday, was not ready to take the home team lightly. Pakistan are a very good side, and playing them in their own conditions makes them a challenging opponent and we can never underestimate them, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The tri-series is seen as a build-up to next year's ODI World Cup co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.

England Great James Anderson Asks What's 'Wrong With Me?' After Lancashire Exit

James Anderson has revealed how his exit from Lancashire left him questioning if there is something fundamentally wrong with me as a person as the England great weighs up whether to extend his remarkable career. Lancashire finished second bottom of the County Championship last season under Anderson's captaincy despite the 44-year-old paceman taking an excellent 50 wickets in 11 matches at a miserly average of 17.68. But Lancashire's incoming director of cricket Paul Farbrace, together with new chief executive Richard Kenyon, informed Anderson in a meeting last week his contract would not be renewed for 2027. The county's decision is reminiscent of the end of Anderson's celebrated England career two years ago, when he was effectively forced into international retirement after director of cricket Rob Key, coach Brendon McCullum and captain Ben Stokes made clear their intention to move on from the veteran quick. Anderson bowed out from Test cricket with 704 wickets, the most by a fast bowler in the five-day format. It feels very similar, Anderson told his Tailenders podcast when comparing the end of his England and Lancashire careers. I finished the season thinking 'was it something I did? Was I doing something wrong?'. And then I get told this news and now I'm thinking it even more. I'm thinking 'this is happening again, is there something fundamentally wrong with me as a person?'. Your head just races and I didn't know what to make of it for a good week. You're thinking 'I'm never going to play cricket again'. Asked if he would continue his first-class career with another county next season, Anderson replied: I'm still trying to process everything and weigh up what the best way forward for me is, really. Anderson's treatment has angered many Lancashire members, with his longstanding England new-ball colleague Stuart Broad calling it disrespectful. Anderson, while excited about the future, said: I am sad the way it ended with the club I supported as a kid. I was born there, grew up watching them, had some of my most memorable days out with dad watching them, got to play for them and captain the club, which is something most people dream about. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I feel like I have a special connection with the club and will always support them.

Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder Centuries Lift South Africa's Chances In Test Decider

Former schoolmates Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder hit centuries and swung the series-deciding third Test in South Africa's favour at Newlands on Friday. Rickelton made 101 and Mulder 115 before South Africa were bowled out for 387 in the last over of the fourth day, setting Australia a target of 288 runs to win on the final day. The series between the two leading Test nations is tied at 1-1. Rickelton and Mulder both attended the elite St Stithians College, north of Johannesburg. It was really special, said Rickelton. We have played a lot of cricket coming through the teenage years together and we know each other's games really well. South Africa started the day on 140 for four -- but with a 100-run first innings deficit it was effectively a precarious 40 for four. Matthew Breetzke (43) helped Rickelton absorb the early pressure before Mulder joined him in a sixth-wicket stand of 154. It was about spending time at the wicket and not getting too far ahead of ourselves, said Rickelton. We knew that the longer we batted the more frustrated the Australians would get. Rickelton said South Africa would be pushing hard for victory on Saturday. For them (Australia) to bat out three sessions will be a big ask but we will also have our work cut out, he added. Only one wicket fell in the first five hours of the day, most of which was taken up by Rickelton and Mulder. Just when it seemed South Africa were forging an impregnable position, Rickelton was run out shortly before the afternoon drinks break. His dismissal sparked a collapse in which four wickets fell for 16 runs in another twist in a series which has featured numerous changes of fortune. But Kagiso Rabada -- another St Stithians old boy -- stayed with Mulder, who reached his century during a last-wicket stand of 36. It was a really important partnership, said Rickelton. Those last 20 or 30 runs will hopefully take us over the edge tomorrow. Australian bowling coach James Franklin said the pitch had not deteriorated markedly, especially for fast bowlers, although there was some turn for the spinners. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories It's set up for a great last day of the series, said Franklin.

'Let Vaibhav Sooryavanshi play his natural game'

Legendary Sri Lankan cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya has praised young Indian batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, calling him a good investment for the future and advocating for him to play his natural game. Jayasuriya also lauded Abhishek Sharma as an all-round player and expressed confidence in the Sri Lankan team's form ahead of their December tour of India. He also commented on the increasing dominance of batters in white-ball cricket, stating it's good for the game.

Star Power Meets Brand Power: JSW Sports Signs Marquee Brands For Hong Kong Sixes, Its First International IP

Marking a significant step in its international sports business, JSW Sports has secured a portfolio of brand partnerships for the Hong Kong Sixes, its first international intellectual property (IP).

We Fell A Bit Short In Our Bowling: Shreyas Iyer Reflects On India's Defeat To New Zealand

India T20I captain Shreyas Iyer admitted that the team fell short with the ball after suffering an 87-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth T20I, crediting Glenn Phillips for his match-winning century.

Rahul Dravid, Saina Nehwal Nominated By Sports Ministry To 2030 Commonwealth Games Organising Committee

Former India cricket captain Rahul Dravid and Olympic medal-winning badminton great Saina Nehwal have been nominated by the Sports Ministry as athlete representatives in the proposed Organising Committee for the 2030 Commonwealth Games in Ahmedabad.

Rohit Sharma Explains Why He Never Got To Wear His First Choice Jersey Number

For cricket fans, the number 45 is instantly associated with Rohit Sharma, fondly known as the 'Hitman'

192 Runs In 12 Matches, Average 16: India Face Big Concern Over Key Player Ahead Of Two World Cups In 'SENA'

Indian wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan continued to raise questions over with his overseas performances with a three-ball duck against New Zealand in the fourth T20I at Auckland on Friday.

Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder Centuries Lead South Africa Fightback, Set Australia 288-Run Chase

Centuries by Ryan Rickelton and Wiaan Mulder lifted South Africa back into series contention against Australia on day four of the deciding Newlands Test on Friday. South Africa began the day only 40 runs ahead and four wickets down

How Glenn Phillips Made IPL Learnings Count Against India

New Zealand batter Glenn Phillips has attributed his consistent match-winning performances in the ongoing T20I series against India, including a century, to the valuable learnings and development opportunities he gained from his time in the Indian Premier League (IPL), despite a modest scoring record.

Manisha Bhanwala creates history, becomes first Indian woman to win wrestling world championship gold

India's women's wrestling contingent has secured a historic achievement at the World Championships in Astana, with Manisha Bhanwala becoming the country's first female world champion after defeating American wrestler Elizabeth Nette 8-6 in the 59kg...

IND vs NZ 4th T20I: India suffer second-biggest T20I defeat by 87 runs as New Zealand dominate at Eden Park

A sensational century from Glenn Phillips set the tone as New Zealand clinched their first win of the T20I series on Friday. Phillips' hundred was well supported by Michael Bracewell who scored a half-century of his own as the hosts plundered 259/7. In response, India's chase never got going as they were restricted to 172/9.

Saina Nehwal, Rahul Dravid nominated to Commonwealth Games 2030 organising board: Report

Former Indian cricket captain Rahul Dravid and Olympic medallist Saina Nehwal are set to take up administrative responsibilities for the Commonwealth Games 2030 after being nominated to the event's Organising Company Board. The appointments, made...

'Abhishek, Ishan, Vaibhav merit ODI chances'

Former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh has expressed his belief that talented young players like Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi are not being given due justice by not being regularly picked for the ODI squad. He acknowledged the challenge posed by senior players but hopes their performance will soon earn them a spot.

'Hamstring has been declared fit' - Rodrigues eyes return to action after three months of rehab

India's next assignment will be a multi-format tour of South Africa in December

Lost Far Too Many Wickets In Power-play, Bowlers Gave Away 20-30 Extra Runs: Bahutule On Indias Defeat

Sairaj Bahutule: Indias spin-bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule said the 87-run defeat to New Zealand in the fourth T20I at Eden Park came due to losing early wickets in the chase and a bowling effort that leaked 20-30 extra runs. Glenn Phillips smashed 107 off 49 balls, including hitting 10 sixes, as New Zealand piled up a record 259/7. Michael Bracewell gave him strong support with a 25-ball 65 that included six sixes as India also conceded their highest-ever mens T20I score. Indias chase stumbled in the very first over, when Jacob Duffy removed both Sanju Samson and Ishan Kishan. With the required rate hovering around 13 an over, India kept losing wickets and eventually were restricted to 172/9. You could say that (we struggled to get going). Obviously, Eden Park is a challenging ground in terms of dimensions. But I think we were very clear as to what we wanted to do. We were clear in terms of our strengths, and we wanted to execute our skills to whatever we could really work towards. But it didnt happen. I think while chasing the score, we lost far too many wickets in the power play. But I think its always challenging playing here because of the shape of the ground. Conditions obviously, when we start the game at 8 oclock, its cold and windy. We maybe could have executed slightly better in terms of chasing. While bowling-wise also, we could not have given that many runs. Could have been short of 20-30 runs. But it didnt happen today. Hopefully, well regroup and recollect and make sure that we continue our form in Hamilton, said Bahutule in the post-match press conference. He kept returning to Indias chase faltering in the powerplay, where New Zealands bowlers hit their lengths and took wickets early. I think losing wickets in the powerplay. The moment you lose two wickets, you are always 30 runs short of your total. So, they bowled well in the right areas. We tried to score as much as possible in the powerplay. It didnt happen. If we had managed post-powerplay also, I am sure we would have been closer to the target. But again, it was just a question of losing wickets in the powerplay. Bahutule pointed out that both departments had fallen short, though the batting groups approach would not change. I think that in both things, in bowling and batting, as I said, we could have given a few runs less in bowling. In batting, if we had one or two wickets in Power-play, then definitely we would have been able to chase because the way our batting line-up is, the way everyones mindset is, there is always a first attempt to win. But that didnt happen today. But in the future, we will definitely achieve that. As you know, power play is very crucial. You know, once you have a good start in six overs, while chasing this target, if you are almost 80-90, then we are sort of in line to at least get close to it. There is just a question of a couple of partnerships. Once those couple of partnerships had taken place in the mid-overs between the 7th and the 15th over, in the last five overs, definitely we could have got closer. Thats what weve achieved before. But again, as I said, about 20-25 runs is a bit far too much for us to be given by the bowling unit. Bahutule also spoke about the crowded schedule, saying the players picked for the ODIs like Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Gurnoor Brar - had already started training while the T20I squad moves on to Hamilton for Sundays clash. I think we always have planning, and it has already been done. So I think the guys who have come for the one-dayers have already started preparation today. The coaching staff will stay for a while and facilitate things for them as much as possible. Then once the team comes back from Hamilton, theyll join. So this scheduling, as you know, is in a way which is quite busy. But I think all of us from the support staff are ready to take up any job, any opportunity where we can help the players and see how we can prepare them for the one-dayers and the Test matches. So we are ready. On the varying conditions in New Zealand, Bahutule said the team had chosen to treat that as a challenge to face head-on. Its challenging in its own way because there are some grounds in New Zealand where you get to play on drop-in pitches, which is, I think, very rare. It doesnt happen in India. So when you come here, you see the change, the difference in the bounce, the seam movement, the little bit of hold-up depending on the dew factor, which obviously gets the moisture. So there are little challenges for the batters initially. On the varying conditions in New Zealand, Bahutule said the team had chosen to treat that as a challenge to face head-on. Its challenging in its own way because there are some grounds in New Zealand where you get to play on drop-in pitches, which is, I think, very rare. It doesnt happen in India. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

'People Like You With Your Passport': Sri Lanka Great Kumar Sangakkara Reveals Alleged Remark By Airport Staff

Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara recently alleged that Ryanair staff at Dublin Airport behaved in a discriminatory and hreatening manner towards him and his family while they were travelling

Why Yuvraj Feels His Iconic Six-Sixes Record Is Nearing Its End

Yuvraj Singh expects his iconic six-sixes record to fall soon while crediting Abhishek Sharma's exceptional work ethic for his rise to the top of T20I batting rankings.

James Anderson not sure about retirement after being left shocked following Lancashire exit

England's record wicket-taker James Anderson has admitted that Lancashire's decision not to renew his contract has left him deeply disappointed. Following which, the veteran fast bowler is considering his future, but is yet to determine...

Why Kuldeep, Varun Remain on Sidelines Even After Bowling Debacle

India's spin bowling coach Sairaj Bahutule addressed the limited opportunities for Kuldeep Yadav and Varun Chakravarthy in the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand, stating they understand the team's preferred combination. Despite a heavy defeat in the fourth T20I, Bahutule highlighted the spinners' readiness and the team's attacking approach, while also discussing challenges at Eden Park and the potential for changes in the next game.

Mitchell Santner's Mega Record, Surpasses Ish Sodhi For Most T20I Wickets Against India

New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner became only the third player from his team to reach the 150 T20I wickets mark on Friday

Perry, Coyte help Sixers seal a final ball thriller over Heat

Perry struck 58 before Coyte scored a boundary off the final ball of the match to help Sixers sneak home chasing 155 after Redmayne and Knott made half-centuries for Heat

'It Was Fabulous, Made Most Of The Pitch': Phillips On His 107 Against India In The 4th T20I

New Zealand: New Zealand all-rounder Glenn Phillips enjoyed batting at Eden Park in Auckland as he smashed a brilliant 107 from 49 balls to power the team to a strong 87-run win against India in the fourth T20I of the series on Friday. He reflected on his knock, saying that he felt fabulous for having contributed to the team yet again. Yeah, it was fabulous. Obviously it was a really good pitch to bat on out there today, and I think we made the most of it, which was fantastic. And yeah, obviously nice to get a few and contribute to the lads, Phillips, who was named the Player of the Match, told broadcasters after the win. Phillips was well partnered by another all-rounder Michael Bracewell in the fourth match, and the duo put up a 115-run partnership from 40 balls to help the Kiwis boss the crucial middle phase of the innings. Phillips also reserved praise for Bracewell, who made 65 from 25 balls. I think we really just talked about the fact that the wind from this end was probably the easier end to go from, but obviously the way Beast (Bracewell) hits, that doesn't really matter which end he goes from, and to be able to take that momentum, especially when it was sort of like a knife-edge part of the game, for us to take it effectively away from India like that was fantastic. Phillips has been the best batter of the series so far as he has smashed 276 runs across the four innings. He has been on a purple patch and also opened up on his approach over the last six months. I think sometimes it's just ebbs and flows of the game. You see the ball well, and you see the ball badly at other times of the year, so I think it's just trying to make that purple patch last as long as possible and just try and make one nice decision as much as I can, he added. The 29-year-old went off the field during India's chase after batting for nearly the entirety of the innings. He opened up on his decision to limit his fielding involvement and whether there are hamstring concerns. I think sometimes it's just ebbs and flows of the game. You see the ball well, and you see the ball badly at other times of the year, so I think it's just trying to make that purple patch last as long as possible and just try and make one nice decision as much as I can, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

'We are in a very good position' - West Indies bank on 'positive intent' to chase win in Dhaka

WI batting coach Reifer credited bowlers for shifting momentum back in their team's favour

'We're Back to Where...': Uthappa Returns to MI With a Mission

Newly appointed Mumbai Indians batting coach Robin Uthappa discusses the team's poor performance in IPL 2025 and his plans to rebuild trust with fans and empower domestic players. He views his return to MI, where he started his IPL career, as destiny and aims to make the team a formidable force both at home and away.

Acquaintance Helps You Get Into The Dressing Room, Not Earn A Place, Says Dilip On Joining MI

T20 World Cups: T Dilip, the newly-appointed fielding coach of Mumbai Indians, believes that knowing many of the franchises star players would help him settle in quickly, though he added that he would still have to earn his place in the dressing room through every day work. Dilip rose to prominence as fielding coach of the Indian mens team, a stint that saw him be a part of three ICC title wins: the T20 World Cups in 2024 and 2026, and the 2025 Champions Trophy. Much of that golden run came under Rohit Sharmas captaincy, and Dilip will reunite with him in MI colours after replacing Carl Hopkinson as the sides fielding coach from IPL 2027. I have worked with Rohit as a captain when I started, then Surya as a captain, Jasprit Bumrah, Tilak Varma, Naman Dhir, you name anyone, Deepak Chahar, Shardul Thakur. So acquaintance is always there, that really helps. But trust me, acquaintance helps you to come into the dressing room. But to earn that place in the dressing room, I think its an everyday work. Like, hard work, what we do and relationship and how can I help the team to take forward, whether its through culture or work. That is where I want to earn that back again, Dilip said in a video posted by the franchises social media accounts on Friday. He also felt building trust as a coach in a team is built slowly, and much of that happens off the field. Mumbai badge is a privilege and as well as a responsibility. As a Mumbai Indians team, I want to build fielding as an attacking weapon in the field. I think everything revolves around the culture, and trust doesnt happen overnight. I think its built over a period, because its not only just what happens on the field, but I think how we interact and spend time with each other off the field, because it gives you an insight about what that person thinks, added Dilip. He also wants his players to value the small contributions that rarely make the highlights. We generally see catches, we generally see run-outs. Once players recognise that its not the spectacular highlights which is highlighted, but the 1 percent factors which can impact a game, then automatically they will put in those efforts. And for us is to make sure that in a practice or a match, we create that environment where players having fun on the field, enjoy the field, and go out there. Sometimes you may have a bad day in your primary skills, whether batting or bowling, but still you can impact a game through fielding. The same approach shapes how he views the fielding medal that became popular in the Indian dressing room. Dilip said he would first understand MIs existing traditions and speak to new head coach Kieron Pollard before deciding whether to bring it in. I think when it comes to fielding medal, I am very, very happy that a great initiative was taken, and actually, its the players who made it really big, the way they have taken it. But I feel end of the day, I am new to this Mumbai Indians setup, and as we know that there are certain traditions which already goes. My way of working generally is that whoever is the head coach, I would understand their philosophy, and Ill definitely have a chat with them and see what best can be introduced or in an existing environment what can be done. But definitely fielding is something I would like to be rewarded and recognised. He also spoke about the home crowd at the Wankhede Stadium and accepted that recent results had not lived up to its expectations. When it comes to Wankhede, I have seen personally theres always tremendous support because it is a small ground, it resonates and feels like in a tougher situation there is someone else backing you all the time. My way of working generally is that whoever is the head coach, I would understand their philosophy, and Ill definitely have a chat with them and see what best can be introduced or in an existing environment what can be done. But definitely fielding is something I would like to be rewarded and recognised. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Neeraj Chopra provides major injury update after missing Diamond League final, Asian Games

India's javelin star Neeraj Chopra is moving closer to returning to the training ground after receiving medical clearance to restart his preparations following an ankle ligament injury. The two-time Olympic medallist has indicated that he...

Triangular Series: Pakistan Look to Rewrite Home ODI History

Pakistan's head coach Mike Hesson is optimistic about his team's chances in the triangular series final against Sri Lanka in Lahore on Saturday, despite recent top-order batting struggles. Sri Lanka, having beaten Pakistan in the 2023 Asia Cup final, enter with strong batting form.

Rohit Sharma Reveals The Story Behind Picking Number 45 For His Iconic Jersey

Family Full House: Indian cricketer Rohit Sharma, who hosts the gaming reality show Family Full House with Rohit Sharma, has shared the story behind his iconic number 45 jersey. The personal story involves an early cricketing memory, a conversation with his mother, and a number that simply felt right to him. During the conversation on the show actor Rahul Lohani asked Rohit about the significance of the number 45, saying, Sir, 45 number jersey dekhte hi ya sunte hi samajh aa jaata hai logon ko ki Hitman aa gaya hai, Par ye 45 number kyun choose kiya aapne, sir? Recounting the story behind his choice, Rohit said, It was a very simple logic, when I played cricket in a jersey for the first time, because when you wear a jersey, you have to choose a number. So people had already chosen all the numbers, number 5, number 8, number 9. I wanted a single-digit number, but everyone had already chosen. So, the only number left for me was 19. Because I just liked the number 19. So I put on the number 19 and I played too, in the Under-19. However, Rohit realised that he would have to reconsider his choice if he went on to represent the Indian team. Explaining how he discovered this, he shared, Then after that, I think we were playing together at that time, but I can't remember the name right now. They told me, 'Hey brother, this is Under-19, you will play in the India team, you can't take this number.' So I said, 'Why?' dude, and he said, 'It's Rahul Dravid's number,' and Rahul Dravid was playing with number 19 at that time, and he was the captain. Rohit then sought advice from his mother, as he said, So right after that, immediately in the evening, I reached the hotel and called mom. I told Mom, 'Mom, I can't play with this number.' Now you tell me which number I should play with. So, mom picked this number '45' for me. Mom told me, 'Play with number 9, it will be good for you. The number 9 had gone, I didn't want to play with the number 27. So I was really liking 4 and 5 being around. So I also gave this feedback to my mom that 4-5 looks much better, so I said, 'Mom, I'll take this number. This is also 9, and the number on the jersey 4-5 will look very good too, he added. Rohit then sought advice from his mother, as he said, So right after that, immediately in the evening, I reached the hotel and called mom. I told Mom, 'Mom, I can't play with this number.' Now you tell me which number I should play with. So, mom picked this number '45' for me. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Santner joins elite club with 150 T20I wickets

New Zealand spinner Mitchell Santner has become the third player from his country to claim 150 T20 International wickets. He achieved this feat during the fourth T20I against India, where he also surpassed Ish Sodhi for the most T20I wickets against India. Santner's performance contributed to New Zealand's 87-run victory in Auckland.

'260 Is Good, But You've To Bowl Well Against Them': Santner Reflects On 4th T20I Win

Mitchell Santner: New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner reflected on his team's performance in the fourth T20I against India at Eden Park in Auckland as he credited the batters and also the bowlers for a complete performance to defeat India for the first time in the series. Having lost all the previous three matches of the five-match series, New Zealand went hammer and tongs yet again and smashed 269/7, their highest T20I total and also the top score against India in T20Is. The destructors-in-chief with the bat were centurion Glenn Phillips and half-centurion Michael Bracewell, who put up a 115-run partnership off 40 balls for the fifth wicket. The bowlers followed them well, with Jacob Duffy picking up a four-wicket haul to restrict India to 172/9 in a big 87-run win for the Black Caps. Speaking after the match, Santner reflected on the strong performance of the batters and the bowlers, admitting that the total was good enough but the bowling still had to be tight against an Indian batting juggernaut as the visitors had already chased down 226 in the first T20I. Yeah, obviously, another lost toss, but I think with the wind, it didn't dew up as much tonight. Obviously 260 is a good score, but you have to bowl well against these guys, and I think we did, Santner said in the post-match presentation. Phillips made 107 from 49 balls, while Bracewell hit 65 from 25 deliveries as their stand in the middle overs turned out to be the difference. The skipper highlighted how the players went hammers and tongs. Yeah, I think we summed up the pitch. We saw a couple fly through at the start and then you stick to those lengths. The boys bashed away nicely, and we were able to take wickets at the start, which is obviously a massive thing in the powerplays. But I think our lengths, our lines were really good tonight, and there's obviously a little bit in the wicket. That's kind of what we wanted for most of the games. So, I think when we get it right on a wicket that bounces nicely, it's going good, he added. The all-rounder reserved special praise for Bracewell, because of whom he thinks New Zealand were able to take the total beyond India's reach. Yeah, the way he came out from the start, obviously we were in a pretty good position, but from ball one to keep going, and that pushes that score from a 220, which is still a good score, to 260, obviously with Glenn going as well. But yeah, it's nice to see Beast (Bracewell) get some runs because he's been striking in the nets, Santner said. Auckland is an unforgiving ground for the bowlers with straight boundaries pretty short. Santner was particularly happy with the bowling performance as they were able to keep India to 172/9. Yeah, pretty happy. It's a tough ground. We've made them take some tough options down the ground off heavy lengths, and a couple went up, which was nice, and then a couple dropped catches again, but it's tight in there, swirling. The all-rounder reserved special praise for Bracewell, because of whom he thinks New Zealand were able to take the total beyond India's reach. Yeah, the way he came out from the start, obviously we were in a pretty good position, but from ball one to keep going, and that pushes that score from a 220, which is still a good score, to 260, obviously with Glenn going as well. But yeah, it's nice to see Beast (Bracewell) get some runs because he's been striking in the nets, Santner said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

Jacob Duffy And Glenn Phillips Star As New Zealand Hammer India

Century-maker Glenn Phillips and fast bowler Jacob Duffy headlined the complete performance that New Zealand had been looking for as the hosts scripted a dominating 87-run victory over a vastly underwhelming India in the fourth T20 International on Friday.

Jemimah Rodrigues Declares Herself Fit After Hamstring Injury

India top-order batter Jemimah Rodrigues on Friday announced that she had recovered from the hamstring injury she sustained in August and was raring to go for her next assignment.

Duffy scripts history, leaves India reeling in Auckland

New Zealand pacer Jacob Duffy registered the best bowling figures by a Kiwi pacer against India, taking 4/23 in the fourth T20I. His performance, including crucial early wickets, helped New Zealand secure an 87-run victory and their first win in the five-match series.

4th T20I: 'We Fell A Bit Short In Our Bowling,' Says Iyer After An 87-run Loss

Shreyas Iyer: India captain Shreyas Iyer admitted that his team fell short with the ball in the fourth T20I against New Zealand, saying the hosts gained momentum during the powerplay, particularly in the third over, which proved costly in their 87-run defeat at Eden Park here on Friday. New Zealand registered their first victory of the five-match series after Glenn Phillips smashed a sensational 107 off 49 balls, and Michael Bracewell contributed 65 off just 25 deliveries to power the hosts to a mammoth 259/7, their highest-ever T20I total. In reply, India were restricted to 172/9 in 19 overs, with Jacob Duffy claiming four wickets. Speaking after the match, Iyer acknowledged that India's bowling performance was below expectations and praised Phillips for his outstanding knock. Yeah, absolutely. I think we fell a bit short in our bowling to start with. Powerplay, especially in the third over, they got that momentum from there on, and yeah, a couple of bowlers, they tried to squeeze in, but I think an exceptional knock by Glenn. Some phenomenal shots, which were like pure bliss. So kudos to him. He's been consistent throughout the series, so there's a lot to learn from him, Iyer said. The Indian captain said the team would review its performance and work on improving its execution ahead of the fifth and final T20I in Hamilton. Yes, absolutely. I feel that it's important to retrospect, see where we can actually bounce back, come into Hamilton and just have a day off. So I personally feel that we can probably go back to the drawing board and see to it we analyse and try to execute to the best of our abilities in the next game, he added. Iyer also acknowledged that adapting to the dimensions of New Zealand grounds had been a challenge for some Indian players, particularly those experiencing such conditions for the first time. He, however, backed the team's efforts in the first three matches and described the defeat as a learning experience for the visitors. Conversation was just that we knew that the dimensions are going to be like this, and some of them, it's their first time playing on such grounds. So it takes a bit of time for them to adapt to the challenge. It's not that easy; I understand that, but the way they executed the first three games, it was magnificent, and yeah, this is just a learning curve, I feel, that next time when they come here, they would probably have a better idea of how to go about their business. So a great learning curve, and hopefully we come back positive in the next game, he said. Iyer also acknowledged that adapting to the dimensions of New Zealand grounds had been a challenge for some Indian players, particularly those experiencing such conditions for the first time. He, however, backed the team's efforts in the first three matches and described the defeat as a learning experience for the visitors. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS

PAK vs SL Final Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs

PAK vs SL Final, Cricket Tips: The tri-series final in Pakistan will be featuring two Asian teams. England would be disappointed after their poor show in the tri-series. They started with three consecutive defeats, which put them out of the race. Now, Pakistan and Sri Lanka will be up against each other on Saturday in the final. This will start at 1:30 PM IST at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Pakistan had a poor batting collapse in their last group game, and they were all out for just 110 runs. Sri Lanka are coming into the final after losing to England. Sri Lanka have conceded 305, 429, and 386 in the last four games. They need to address their bowling issues. PAK vs SL: Match Details Date : October 31, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 1:30 PM IST Venue : Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore PAK vs SL: Live Streaming Details The live action of the final of the tri-series will be accessible on the Veto streaming platform in India. PAK vs SL: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches: 162 Pakistan : 98 Sri Lanka : 59 No-result : 5 PAK vs SL: Ground Pitch Report Gaddafi Stadium has been a sporting wicket. The first two games of the tri-series here were low-scoring ones. But the last game produced more than 715 runs. There might be swing and movement with the new ball, and spinners will get some grip when the ball gets old. PAK vs SL: Possible XIs Pakistan : Sahibzada Farhan, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saad Baig (wk), Hasan Nawaz, Salman Agha, Arafat Minhas, Shadab Khan, Shaheen Afridi (c), Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf Sri Lanka: Kamindu Mendis, Avishka Fernando, Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Pavan Rathnayake, Dasun Shanaka, Janith Liyanage, Sahan Arachchige, Dunith Wellalage, Eshan Malinga, Asitha Fernando, Dilshan Madushanka PAK vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Pavan Rathnayake and Salman Agha are two top scorers for their teams. They will be the ones to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Dasun Shanaka and Shaheen Afridi have been consistent with the ball. They have taken early wickets with the new ball. Today Match Prediction: Pakistan lost the last game, but their numbers against Sri Lanka are pretty good, and they have an advantage of home conditions. Hence, we predict Pakistan to win the tri-series final. PAK vs SL Match Final ODI, Today Match PAK vs SL, PAK vs SL Prediction, PAK vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli Hit Nets Ahead Of ODI Series Against New Zealand

Team India stalwarts Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli have hit the ground running for the upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand, as the duo gear up for the crucial assignment ahead of next year's ODI World Cup.

Anderson 'sad' and 'quite shocked' by Lancashire release

Anderson has not yet made a decision on his playing future but said that

Rostan Chase Sparks Bangladesh Collapse As West Indies On Top In Mirpur

West Indies captain Roston Chase ripped through Bangladesh's top order to leave the hosts reeling at 79-6 on the third day of the first Test in Mirpur on Friday. Bangladesh held a 106-run lead at stumps, with concussion substitute Jaker Ali and Nayeem Hasan -- both on 18 -- at the crease when bad light stopped play early. Earlier, off-spinner Nayeem took four wickets to bowl West Indies out for 245, conceding a lead of 27 runs in response to Bangladesh's first-innings total of 272. We are in a very good position, West Indies batting coach Floyd Reifer said after the day's play. We bowled in disciplined areas, stuck to the team plans and everyone really hustled out there in the heat. Reifer added: If we're going to chase 125 runs, I think that's really possible for us on a pitch like that. But obviously, you have to get early wickets. West Indies resumed the day on 134-4 and continued to frustrate Bangladesh through a fifth-wicket partnership between Tagenarine Chanderpaul, who top-scored with 56, and Justin Greaves. The pair added 65 runs before Shoriful Islam broke the stand, with Chanderpaul edging to second slip where captain Najmul Hossain Shanto took a sharp catch. Bangladesh had to wait for another breakthrough as Greaves kept up the defiance with skipper Chase, who made an unbeaten 43 after being dropped on 27, for company. Off-spinner Nayeem broke through by trapping Greaves lbw for 46 shortly before lunch, leaving West Indies at 213-6. Chase came out attacking, while Joshua Bishop contributed 15 before being stumped off Mehidy Hasan Miraz. Bishop had earlier been dropped on 11 by Mominul Haque at short leg, with the Bangladesh batter suffering concussion while attempting the catch. He was replaced by Jaker. Nayeem, who took 4-33, then cleaned up the tail, removing Shamar Joseph and Jomel Warrican in the 81st over before dismissing Jayden Seales in the next. West Indies fast bowler Joseph struck in the second over to send back opener Tanzid Hasan for a duck. Shadman Islam, who scored 105 in the first innings, and Shanto briefly steadied things before Chase took control and bowled the opener for 13. Chase had Towhid Hridoy out for a duck two balls later and trapped skipper Najmul Hossain Shanto lbw for 10 in his next over to leave Bangladesh tottering at 33-4 before rain interrupted play for around 30 minutes. West Indies continued their assault after the break as Warrican trapped Litton Das lbw for four before bowling Mehidy Hasan Miraz to reduce Bangladesh to 53-6. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We will try to give the team as many runs as possible, said Nayeem. A total of 200 would be very good. We will try to score even more.

Iyer Sounds Alarm as NZ Six-Hitting Storm Sinks India

India suffered an 87-run defeat against New Zealand in the fourth T20 International, with skipper Shreyas Iyer admitting the bowling unit performed below par. New Zealand posted a massive 259 for 7, powered by Glenn Phillips' century and Michael Bracewell's quickfire fifty. Iyer stressed the need for the team to go back to the drawing board before the final match, acknowledging the challenging dimensions of Eden Park.