Gill lauds 'very valuable' Ashok Sharma after impressive debut
Making his IPL debut, Ashok Sharma returned figures of 1 for 31 from three overs
Ice-cool Connolly leads nervy PBKS home on IPL debut
Prasidh Krishna's wickets caused a late wobble, but Connolly's unbeaten 72 steered PBKS home
IPL 2026: He Was Calm And Composed, Says Shreyas Iyer On Connolly's Match-winning Knock Against GT
New International Cricket Stadium: Skipper Shreyas Iyer praised debutant Cooper Connolly for his calm and composed innings after Punjab Kings (PBKS) registered a three-wicket win over Gujarat Titans (GT) in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 opener at the PCA's New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Tuesday. Chasing 163, Punjab Kings rode on Connollys unbeaten 72 to cross the line in 19.1 overs despite losing wickets at regular intervals towards the end. Iyer, who got injured during the chase, also spoke about his fitness, saying, All I can say about the hand is that it's nice, same as it was before. I don't want to jinx anything. The Punjab skipper was full of praise for Connollys batting display. Some of the shots he played were surreal to watch, especially the one off Rashid, he said. Iyer admitted there was a tense moment during the chase when Punjab lost quick wickets. I was focused on my hand inside, icing it. Suddenly, we lost two wickets back-to-back; these things happen in the IPL. You have to stay composed, Cooper was there, he was composed and calm, he added. He also revealed how the team assessed the pitch early in the game. After the third over, we realised the wicket was slow. Arshdeep came and said it was holding a bit. We tried to make the ball old as soon as possible, Iyer said. The captain also lauded Vijaykumar Vyshak, who took three wickets for his performance with the ball. Vyshak is carrying forward the form he performed in the last season. He is a big match player, he noted. Iyer also shared a light moment from the game, saying he was surprised by an unusual field placement. I was surprised to see a short leg for me. I told Shubman I had never seen that before, it's good to see captains attacking, he said, referring to Shubman Gill. Player of the Match Connolly expressed his delight after his impressive debut performance. I was looking forward to the experience of playing with some world-class players, but to put that performance in tonight, I'm very happy. I spent some time with friends and family at home before this just to reset, he said. The Australian added that he prefers to play according to the situation. I'm just more of a tempo player, feel the flow of my hands, don't hit too many big sixes ... working with Ricky is great. Not a lot was said; we were quite relaxed, in a great position out there, nice to get the win with Xavier, looking forward to the rest of the tournament, he said. Player of the Match Connolly expressed his delight after his impressive debut performance. I was looking forward to the experience of playing with some world-class players, but to put that performance in tonight, I'm very happy. I spent some time with friends and family at home before this just to reset, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings will next face five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the M.A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Friday. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: We Didnt Score Enough In The Last Five Overs, Says Gill After GT Loss Against PBKS
PCA New International Cricket Stadium: Skipper Shubman Gill admitted that Gujarat Titans (GT) fell short with the bat and in the final overs despite a strong start, after they went down to the Punjab Kings (PBKS) by three wickets in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 opener at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Gill felt the pitch had enough in it for a bigger total, but his side could not capitalise. I think we bowled overs. Batting, it looked like a 210-220 wicket. We thought 175 would be a good score, but we kept losing wickets and didn't score much in the last 5 overs. Once the ball got older, it was difficult to hit it down the ground, he said in the post-match presentation. Gujarat Titans eventually managed 162/6 in their 20 overs despite a flying start from Gill and Sai Sudharsan, who had taken the team to 35/0 in three overs. However, regular wickets in the middle overs, including Gills dismissal for 39 and contributions from Jos Buttler (38) and Glenn Phillips (25), prevented them from reaching a bigger total. Gill also pointed out that conditions slightly eased for batting in the second innings due to rain. In the second innings, rain continued, making the ball wet, which slightly improved batting conditions, he added. Despite the defeat, the Gujarat skipper praised his bowling unit for keeping the contest alive, especially Prasidh Krishna, who picked up three wickets. Bowling was good, and we can't blame them. I could've (on delaying Prasidh's introduction), but he came at the right time, took wickets, and kept us in the game until the 17th and 18th over. All ifs and buts, but he was bowling well in the nets as well, he said. Gill also had words of praise for youngster Ashok Sharma, who finished with figures of 1-31, For Ashok, he works hard on the game, he's a good find for us. I met him at one of our camps a couple of months ago. He is doing well and I hope he continues to do well, he noted. Chasing 163, Punjab Kings rode on debutant Cooper Connollys unbeaten 72 to reach the target in 19.1 overs, despite a late fightback from Gujarat. Gill also had words of praise for youngster Ashok Sharma, who finished with figures of 1-31, For Ashok, he works hard on the game, he's a good find for us. I met him at one of our camps a couple of months ago. He is doing well and I hope he continues to do well, he noted. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans will now face Rajasthan Royals at their home ground, Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad, on Saturday. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Connollys Unbeaten 72 Guides PBKS To 3-wicket Win Over GT
New International Cricket Stadium: Debutant Cooper Connolly hit his maiden half-century as Punjab Kings chased down the target of 163 runs in 19.1 overs and registered a three-wicket win, quelling a great comeback by the Gujarat Titans in their opening match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the PCA's New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Tuesday. Chasing 163, the Punjab Kings had an early setback when impact player Priyansh Arya was dismissed for 7 off 8 balls in the second over by Kagiso Rabada. Opener Prabhsimran Singh then counter-attacked, hitting back-to-back sixes off Rabada in the fourth over. Connolly joined the charge, smashing two sixes as Punjab reached 55/1 at the end of the Power-play. The duo continued to score freely, adding 76 runs for the second wicket and taking the team close to 100. The partnership was broken in the 10th over when Rashid Khan dismissed Prabhsimran for a quick 37 off 24 balls. Captain Shreyas Iyer kept up the momentum with two sixes but was dismissed in the 13th over by Prasidh Krishna. Gujarat Titans fought back strongly with quick wickets, removing Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, and Marcus Stoinis, with Krishna and Washington Sundar among the wicket-takers. Despite the collapse at the other end, Connolly held his nerve and completed his maiden IPL fifty on debut in just 34 balls. He remained unbeaten on 72 off 44 balls, hitting five fours and five sixes, and guided Punjab home along with Xavier Bartlett (11 not out) with five balls to spare. Krishna was the pick of the bowlers for Gujarat, finishing with 3-29, while Rabada, Ashok Sharma, Rashid Khan, and Sundar took one wicket each. Earlier, fast bowler Vijaykumar Vyshak took three wickets while Yuzvendra Chahal took two as the Punjab Kings restricted the Gujarat Titans to 162/6 in 20 overs. Gujarat Titans made a strong start after being asked to bat first, with Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan scoring freely to take the score to 35/0 in three overs. However, Punjab Kings struck early as Marco Jansen dismissed Sudharsan for 13. Gill then added stability alongside Jos Buttler, guiding the team to 54/1 at the end of the powerplay. While Gill initially played aggressively, he later slowed down to anchor the innings before being dismissed for 39 off 27 balls by Yuzvendra Chahal in the 10th over. Glenn Phillips looked to accelerate with a quick 25 off 17 balls, but fell to Vijaykumar Vyshak. Buttler continued to hold the innings together but was dismissed for 38 off 33 balls by Chahal in the 16th over. Washington Sundar struggled for fluency and managed 18 off 16 balls before getting out late in the innings. Vyshak was the standout performer with the ball, finishing with figures of 3-34 in four overs, while Chahal provided crucial support with two wickets. Punjab Kings disciplined bowling effort ensured Gujarat Titans were kept under control despite their strong start. Washington Sundar struggled for fluency and managed 18 off 16 balls before getting out late in the innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans 162/6 in 20 overs (Shubman Gill 39, Jos Buttler 38; Vijaykumar Vyshak 3-34, Yuzvendra Chahal 2-28) lost to Punjab Kings 165/7 in 19.1 overs (Cooper Connolly 72*, Prabhsimran Singh 37; Prasidh Krishna 3-29, Washington Sundar 1-27) by 3 wickets. Article Source: IANS
New International Cricket Stadium: Spinner Yuzvendra Chahal said smart variations and use of flight helped him control the middle overs as Punjab Kings (PBKS) halted Gujarat Titans (GT) at 162/6 in their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the PCA's New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Tuesday. Chahal was one of the standout performers with the ball, returning figures of 2-28 in his four overs and providing crucial breakthroughs at a key stage of the innings. His most important wicket came in the 10th over when he dismissed captain Shubman Gill, who was looking set after a steady start. The dismissal helped Punjab regain control after a strong power play from Gujarat. Reflecting on his approach, Chahal explained how he assessed the conditions early and adapted accordingly. Definitely, in the evening when I saw the wicket, I thought it'd be dry. And when the fast bowlers start bowling cutters, I like a little bit of grip. You need to beat the batters in the flight here. I varied my pace and line, starting with some wide deliveries and then moving to the stumps line. Then I took a chance to get Shubman and put them under pressure, he said. The leg-spinner also underlined the importance of the powerplay phase, noting how scoring becomes more difficult as the innings progresses. Power-play is very important, it's easy to score runs with the new ball and hitting becomes harder as the ball gets old, he added. Definitely, in the evening when I saw the wicket, I thought it'd be dry. And when the fast bowlers start bowling cutters, I like a little bit of grip. You need to beat the batters in the flight here. I varied my pace and line, starting with some wide deliveries and then moving to the stumps line. Then I took a chance to get Shubman and put them under pressure, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With this performance, Chahal further strengthened his record as the most successful bowler in the middle overs (7-15) in IPL history. He now has 138 wickets in this phase at an average of 25.34, ahead of Ravindra Jadeja (136), Piyush Chawla (132), Amit Mishra (126), and Rashid Khan (102). Article Source: IANS
BCB Plans Womens League In July; Director Rubaba Declines Comment On India-Bangladesh Cricket Ties
The Bangladesh Cricket Board: The Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) is all set to start a women's edition of the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2026, which will start in July this year, though things on restarting cricketing ties with India are not yet clear. The fact that the BCB is all set to start a T20 league for women in July was revealed to IANS by Rubaba Dowla, Director of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) and Chairperson of the Women's Wing, on Tuesday. Rubaba Dowla, however, refused to say anything about resumption of cricket ties and the tour by the indian men's and women's cricket teams of Bangladesh, which were postponed last year because of the conditions prevailing in Bangladesh. The tours were deferred as cricket ties between the two countries spiralled and touched a nadir during the rule of an interim government in Bangladesh. Many Indians have demanded that the BCCI to not send its teams to Bangladesh because of the incidents of mob lynching and killing of Hindus in the country. A few months back, the Board of Control of Cricket in India (BCCI) directed Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) to release (the only) Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman (auctioned for $1 million) from its 2026 squad. The decision did not bode well with the Bangladesh government and public, and the BCB responded by seeking relocation of their team's matches in the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026 from India to Sri Lanka, citing security concerns for its players. Despite repeated assessments, the ICC rejected such a request, citing a lack of any credible security threats for Bangladeshi players. Bangladesh was eventually withdrawn from the T20 World Cup and replaced by Scotland. Many Indians have demanded that the BCCI to not send its teams to Bangladesh because of the incidents of mob lynching and killing of Hindus in the country. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As per the ICC Future Tour Programme, India is scheduled to play Bangladesh in a series. But that is currently on hold. Article Source: IANS
Vyshak and Chahal restrict GT to 162
PBKS chipped away regularly at the wickets, as three of GT's top four got to 25 without any of them getting to 40
IPL 2026: Vyshak Takes Three As Punjab Kings Restrict Gujarat Titans To 162/6
New International Cricket Stadium: Fast bowler Vijaykumar Vyshak took three wickets as Punjab Kings (PBKS) restricted Gujarat Titans (GT) to 162/6 in 20 overs in their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, being played at the PCA's New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Tuesday. Asked to bat first after losing the toss, the Gujarat Titans got off to a strong start with captain Shubman Gill and Sai Sudharsan looking in good touch. The duo scored freely and took the team to 35/0 at the end of the third over, scoring at more than 10 runs per over. Punjab Kings struck early when Marco Jansen dismissed Sai Sudharsan in the fourth over with a short-pitched delivery. The opener made 13 off 11 balls. Gill continued the scoring alongside Jos Buttler, who started cautiously and rotated the strike well. Gujarat Titans reached 54/1 at the end of the Power-play. After the Power-play, Gill slowed down and took the role of anchoring the innings while keeping the scoreboard moving. The partnership was eventually broken in the 10th over when Gill was caught at mid-wicket by Cooper Connolly off Yuzvendra Chahal. Gill scored 39 off 27 balls, hitting six fours. Glenn Phillips, who missed last season due to injury, picked up the pace in the 12th over with a six and a four off Chahal. However, he could not convert his start and was dismissed in the 14th over by Vyshak, caught at long-off by Jansen. He scored 25 off 17 balls. At the other end, Buttler held the innings together but was dismissed in the 16th over by Chahal after scoring 38 off 33 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Washington Sundar struggled to get going and was dismissed for 18 off 16 balls in the 19th over. Vyshak was the standout bowler for Punjab Kings, finishing with figures of 3-34 in four overs, while Chahal supported well with two important wickets. At the other end, Buttler held the innings together but was dismissed in the 16th over by Chahal after scoring 38 off 33 balls, including three fours and two sixes. Washington Sundar struggled to get going and was dismissed for 18 off 16 balls in the 19th over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans 162/6 in 20 overs (Shubman Gill 39, Jos Buttler 38; Vijaykumar Vyshak 3-34, Yuzvendra Chahal 2-28) against Punjab Kings Article Source: IANS
Miller omitted from CSA contracts; Bosch, Brevis handed first-time deals
A total of 18 men's and 15 women's contracts were awarded, as well as a hybrid contract for offspinner Simon Harmer
ECB unmoved by Ireland's Euro Nations Cup proposal
England's jam-packed schedule means involvement in mooted Asia Cup-style tournament unlikely
Scotland Women To Host Bangladesh, Netherlands In T20 Tri-series Ahead Of World Cup
T20 World Cup: Scotland Women's cricket team will step up their preparations for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 with a T20 tri-series against Bangladesh and the Netherlands at The Grange Club to be played in May and June. The series will mark Scotlands first home assignment since September 2022. Since then, the team has shown steady progress, qualifying for two successive Womens T20 World Cups and registering notable wins against full-member sides such as West Indies, Zimbabwe and Ireland in both ODI and T20 formats. After the series, Scotland will travel to England for two additional warm-up matches before beginning their T20 World Cup campaign against Ireland at Old Trafford on June 13. Captain Kathryn Bryce said she is looking forward to playing in front of home fans in Edinburgh. Im incredibly excited for this opportunity for us to play in my hometown of Edinburgh. The last time we played there was in 2022, which feels so long ago, and I actually contracted Covid-19 at the time so ended up missing out on the series. This is going to be the first time that Ive played for Scotland in Edinburgh in my career, so its incredibly exciting, she said in a statement released by Scotland cricket. Theres a monumental few months coming up, given were then playing a T20 World Cup just down the road in England, so with the buzz and energy around that prospect, hopefully we can get lots of supporters along to watch us. Its been so rare for Scotland to play at home that its not often we get to have a big crowd thats able to see us in person and be on our side. Bangladesh and the Netherlands are both excellent sides, so the fixtures will be amazing preparation for us leading into the main event. I cant wait to pull on the thistle here in Scotland and run out in front of the home fans, she added. Head coach Craig Wallace said hosting the tri-series is an important step for the team. Being able to host two excellent cricketing nations in Bangladesh and the Netherlands here in Scotland is amazing, and a big step forward for our sport and the team. Given that we havent played at home since 2022, itll probably be quite an emotional occasion for everyone involved, given the hard work that the team have put in since then and the success theyve subsequently had, he said. Head coach Craig Wallace said hosting the tri-series is an important step for the team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The tri-series, to be held at The Grange Club, will begin on May 28 with Scotland taking on the Netherlands, followed by Scotland facing Bangladesh on May 30. Bangladesh will then meet the Netherlands on May 31. The action continues with Scotland playing Bangladesh again on June 2, before Scotland face the Netherlands on June 3. The final match of the series will see the Netherlands take on Bangladesh on June 4. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'Always Wanna Come Here And Give My Best,' Says Marco Jansen
PCA New International Cricket Stadium: South African all-rounder Marco Jansen underlined his commitment to contributing to the teams success, saying his primary aim is always to give his best and help put the side in a winning position, as Punjab Kings (PBKS) start their campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Gujarat Titans (GT) at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. For me personally, it's just about always wanna come here and give my best and put the team in a winning position, Jansen said ahead of the match. The South African all-rounder added that his break after the T20 World Cup allowed him to spend quality time with family before returning to India. It was good. I spent some time with the family, my sisters, my mom, my dad, obviously my brother as well. He was playing cricket back home. And then yeah, went to the farm for a few days, spent some time in the bush. And then yeah, got back here to India, he said. Jansen also credited his development to working with different coaches and learning from teammates in franchise cricket. I think the coaching staff has helped me a lot. Dealing with different coaches, having to work with different coaches across the world, picking their brains. And obviously, the domestic players here in the IPL last year, especially has helped me a lot, Arshdeep in particular and Shreyas Iyer from a captaincy point of view, he added. Having featured in multiple IPL seasons, Jansen believes his understanding of Indian conditions has improved significantly over time. I think that's (having played cricket in India) helped me a lot in terms of how to play better or be more consistent in Indian conditions. I remember previously, when I was younger, I just struggled quite a bit with the bounce and then with the spin as well. And I think spending time here playing in the IPL for numerous years now has helped a lot regarding that, he said. Having featured in multiple IPL seasons, Jansen believes his understanding of Indian conditions has improved significantly over time. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jansen also had a good season with the ball in IPL 2025, where he took 16 wickets at an average of 27.13. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Boys In Good Place, Says Dushmantha Chameera As DC Set For Season's First Clash Vs LSG
With Delhi Capitals: With Delhi Capitals set to kick off their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign with renewed focus and clarity, their Sri Lankan fast bowler Dushmantha Chameera shed light on the teams readiness ahead of their opening clash against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Wednesday. Coming into his second season with the franchise, Chameera spoke about the continuity within the group and the work put in during the lead-up to the tournament. We had good preparation for a few days, we had two practice games, and I think the boys are in a good place now. For me, its always special because playing in the IPL is a dream. I was with the team last year as well, and if I get the opportunity this season, I just want to contribute to the teams success, Chameera said on the eve of their opening match on Tuesday. Highlighting the demands of bowlers in a high-scoring format like T20, Chameera said, Its always tough for fast bowlers in India. The wickets are good for batting, and the grounds are small, so you have to be mentally very strong. Preparation is not just about skills; its also about how you handle pressure in these conditions. If we execute our plans well, we can still do well even in these situations. Speaking about the fast-moving evolution of T20's and the Tigers' efforts to be up to speed with it, Chameera added, Compared to a few years ago, now even if you go for 8-9 runs in an over, it can still be okay depending on the situation. We discuss these things as a group, work on our plans, and focus on what is best for the team in that moment. Highlighting the demands of bowlers in a high-scoring format like T20, Chameera said, Its always tough for fast bowlers in India. The wickets are good for batting, and the grounds are small, so you have to be mentally very strong. Preparation is not just about skills; its also about how you handle pressure in these conditions. If we execute our plans well, we can still do well even in these situations. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We have discussed everything in the bowling group, and we have individual plans for different batters. In these kinds of conditions, execution becomes very important, especially for fast bowlers, so that is something we have focused on in preparation, he added. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Punjab Kings Win Toss, Elect To Bowl First Against Gujarat Titans
PCA New International Cricket Stadium: Punjab Kings have won the toss and elected to bowl first against the Gujarat Titans in match four of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, played at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. Punjab Kings enjoyed a stellar campaign in IPL 2025, finishing as runners-up and marking one of their best performances in the tournaments history. On the other hand, the Gujarat Titans had a strong IPL 2025 campaign, finishing 3rd in the league stage under captain Shubman Gill. GT lost the Eliminator to the Mumbai Indians by 20 runs. These two sides began their seasons against each other in 2025 as well, with Punjab Kings triumphing by 11 runs at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. After winning the toss, Punjab Kings captain Shreyas Iyer said, We're going to bowl first. I firmly believe that chasing gives you a fair idea about how to approach the target. And also, we played a couple of practice games, and whatever total was scored, I think it was easily chased down. So, thinking that at the back of my mind, I'm taking that decision. We had a phenomenal last season. We have to stay in the present. We didn't have to think about the past. We need to play our best brand of cricket. Cooper has come in. Stoinis, Bartlett, and Marco Jansen are the four overseas players. Meanwhile, after losing the toss, Gujarat Titans skipper Shubman Gill said, The wicket looks pretty good. It has been raining on and off over the last two days. Looks like a good wicket to bat on. Last year, we had a pretty good season. Two debutants -- Glenn and Ashok Sharma. We've got Jos, Glenn, Rashid, and Rabada. He (Buttler) is such an experienced player, I am sure he's going to have a great year for us. Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans have faced each other six times in IPL history, with both sides giving tough competition to each other, as the head-to-head record is tied with PBKS winning three encounters, and GT also came victorious on three occasions. Playing XIs: Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Impact substitutes: Priyansh Arya, Harpreet Brar, Praveen Dubey, Vishnu Vinod, Suryansh Shedge Punjab Kings: Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Cooper Connolly, Shreyas Iyer (c), Nehal Wadhera, Shashank Singh, Marcus Stoinis, Marco Jansen, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzvendra Chahal Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Prasidh Krishna, Jason Holder, Jayant Yadav, Manav Suthar, Kumar Kushagra Article Source: IANS
All eyes on fit-again Mayank as LSG kickstart season against DC
Rishabh Pant could bat at No. 3 for LSG, while Auqib Nabi is likely to make his IPL debut with DC
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch LSG Vs DC, Know All Details
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Rishabh Pant-led Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) will start their campaign in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 against Axar Patel's side, Delhi Capitals (DC), at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Both Lucknow Super Giants and Delhi Capitals endured underwhelming campaigns in IPL 2025, missing out on playoff qualification. Delhi narrowly fell short, finishing fifth and just one point away from the top four, while Lucknow ended seventh after managing six wins in their 14 league matches. LSG boast a formidable top order featuring Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran and Mitchell Marsh, complemented by a strong pace attack comprising Mohammed Shami, Anrich Nortje, Mayank Yadav and Avesh Khan, all capable of maintaining high speeds consistently. In contrast, Delhi Capitals appear more settled overall, with a solid top order led by KL Rahul, Prithvi Shaw and Pathum Nissanka. Their middle order includes experienced names like David Miller, Tristan Stubbs and Nitish Rana. However, their pace unit looks slightly vulnerable in the absence of Mitchell Starc, although Lungi Ngidi and Kyle Jamieson remain reliable options in this format. When: Wednesday, April 1, 7:30 PM IST Where: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow Where to watch: The LSG vs DC match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The LSG vs DC match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Delhi Capitals: Axar Patel (C), KL Rahul (WK), Nitish Rana, Abishek Porel (WK), Ajay Mandal, Ashutosh Sharma, Dushmantha Chameera, Karun Nair, Kuldeep Yadav, Madhav Tiwari, Mitchell Starc, Sameer Rizvi, T Natarajan, Tripurana Vijay, Tristan Stubbs, Vipraj Nigam, Mukesh Kumar, David Miller, Ben Duckett, Auqib Nabi, Pathum Nissanka, Lungi Ngidi, Sahil Parikh, Prithvi Shaw and Kyle Jamieson. Article Source: IANS
India Sporting Goods Fair: The 4th edition of the India Sporting Goods Fair (ISGF) 2026 opened on Tuesday with a strong focus on transforming India into a global hub for sports goods manufacturing, exports, and trade. Addressing exhibitors, international buyers, and stakeholders, Secretary (Sports), Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, Hari Ranjan Rao, stated, This is a golden period in the growth trajectory of Indias sports goods industry. Outlining an ambitious national vision, Rao highlighted that India aims to scale sports goods exports from approximately 3,000 crore to 80,000 crore. Emphasising the scale of transformation required, he said, If we have to move from 3,000 crore to 80,000 crore, every manufacturer will have to multiply their scale nearly 25 times. If you do not dream big, you will not be able to achieve it. Manufacturers were urged to scale aggressively, expand globally, and adopt a forward-looking approach driven by innovation and investment, with special emphasis on the role of youth and next-generation entrepreneurs in leading this expansion. Let us aim to host the worlds largest sports goods exhibition in India with participation from exhibitors across the globe, Rao said. Reaffirming the Governments commitment, Rao noted that 500 crore has already been allocated in the Union Budget for the sector. It was underlined that while the Government will provide full policy support, execution must be led by the industry. We would also like to see many more new manufacturers entering the sports manufacturing sector. The industry should actively explore joint ventures and international collaborations, and the Ministry will be happy to support such partnerships, the Secretary (Sports) said. Addressing the gathering, Joint Secretary (Sports), Vineel Krishna, highlighted the Governments broader vision and stated, The Government is very ambitious about expanding the sports goods manufacturing sector, not only to meet domestic demand but also to enhance Indias global export potential. We are hopeful that in the next couple of months we will be able to launch the sports goods manufacturing scheme after necessary approvals, he said. Joint Secretary (Sports) also highlighted the increasing interest shown by several State Governments in promoting the expansion of sports goods manufacturing in the country. The next decade is going to be transformational for the sports sector, and all of you will be part of this growth story, he added. We are hopeful that in the next couple of months we will be able to launch the sports goods manufacturing scheme after necessary approvals, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 4th edition of ISGF features 75 exhibitors showcasing a diverse range of products, including athletic goods, badminton and tennis equipment, boxing gear, cricket equipment, fitness equipment, sports apparel, indoor sports equipment, and toys. Article Source: IANS
BCCI Expresses Deep Sorrow Over Untimely Passing Of Veteran Broadcast Engineer Langford
The IPL Governing Council: The Board for Cricket Control of India (BCCI) has expressed deep sorrow following the untimely death of veteran broadcast engineer Ian William Langford, who was part of the Indian Premier Leagues (IPL) 2026 production crew in Mumbai. In an official statement, the board said, The IPL Governing Council and all stakeholders involved express their deepest condolences on the untimely demise of Mr. Ian Williams Langford, a dedicated broadcast engineer, who was an integral part of our broadcast operations. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends back home. Reiterating its commitment to those working behind the scenes, the BCCI added, The IPL is committed to providing all necessary support and assistance to Mr. Langfords family during this incredibly difficult time. It further emphasised, The health, safety and overall security of every member involved in the smooth functioning of the IPL continues to remain of utmost importance. Langford, a 76-year-old British citizen, was in Mumbai for IPL broadcast operations. He had been staying at the Trident Hotel since March 24. According to Marine Drive police, hotel staff found him unconscious in his room on the morning of March 30. They had tried to contact him multiple times with no response. Hotel management quickly took him to Bombay Hospital, but he was pronounced dead upon arrival. Langford, a 76-year-old British citizen, was in Mumbai for IPL broadcast operations. He had been staying at the Trident Hotel since March 24. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Langford returned to his room late on March 29 after finishing his work at an IPL match. When he did not respond the next morning, hotel staff notified the authorities, leading to the discovery. Langford was an experienced professional, seen as a key part of the broadcast team. He helped ensure smooth coverage of IPL matches. Article Source: IANS
Mitchell Perry ruled out of Lancashire stint with back stress injury
Australian seamer to begin rehab programme after routine MRI detected recurrence of problem
Fakhar Zaman Handed A Two-match Ban For Ball Tampering
The Pakistan Cricket Board: Fakhar Zaman has received a two-match suspension in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) after being found guilty of a Level 3 breach under Article 2.14 of the tournaments Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the decision on Tuesday following the Lahore Qalandars vs Karachi Kings fixture held on Sunday, March 29, at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Article 2.14 addresses violations involving the alteration of the balls condition, specifically in contravention of clause 41.3 of the HBL PSL Playing Conditions. It states, The following actions shall, therefore, not be permitted (this list of actions is not exhaustive but included for illustrative purposes): (a) deliberately throwing the ball into the ground for the purpose of roughening it up; (b) applying any artificial substance to the ball; and applying any non-artificial substance for any purpose other than to polish the ball; (c) lifting or otherwise interfering with any of the seams of the ball; and (d) scratching the surface of the ball with finger or thumb nails or any implement. A first-time Level 3 offence can result in a suspension ranging from one to two matches. It also notes, Any appeal under this Article must be lodged with the HBL PSL Technical Committee within 48 hours of receipt of the written decision of the Match Referee. The incident occurred in the closing stages of the match, when on-field umpires penalised Lahore Qalandars by awarding five runs to the opposition. The ball was subsequently replaced before the final over of Karachi Kings innings. The charge was brought forward by on-field umpires Shahid Saikat and Faisal Khan Aafreedi, along with TV umpire Asif Yaqoob and fourth umpire Tariq Rasheed. Fakhar denied wrongdoing and opted to challenge the allegation during a formal disciplinary hearing, as permitted under the Code of Conduct. The incident occurred in the closing stages of the match, when on-field umpires penalised Lahore Qalandars by awarding five runs to the opposition. The ball was subsequently replaced before the final over of Karachi Kings innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Lahore Qalandars are set to play their upcoming matches against Multan Sultans on Friday, April 3, at Gaddafi Stadium, followed by a clash with Islamabad United on Thursday (April 9) at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'Last Season Is History Now, We Start From Ball One,' Says Iyer Ahead Of GT Clash
PCA New International Cricket Stadium: Punjab Kings (PBKS) skipper Shreyas Iyer urged his side to move on from last season and embrace a fresh start, as he laid down a clear message ahead of their first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played against the Gujarat Titans (GT) at the PCA New International Cricket Stadium on Tuesday. See, last season is history now. We start from ball one. It's important that we stick to the present and see to it that we enjoy each and every moment, Iyer said in a video released by the IPL. Skipper also praised the love and support the team gets when they play at their home ground and expected the fans to continue cheering for them as they start their new season It certainly feels like home. The love and the support the home team got last season it was phenomenal. And I'm hoping to see a lot of them coming in numbers this season and cheering us up. It doesn't really feel like an away game, Iyer added. Punjab Kings enjoyed a stellar campaign in IPL 2025, finishing as runners-up and marking one of their best performances in the tournaments history. Looking ahead to the new season, Iyer highlighted the influence of head coach Ricky Ponting in shaping the teams approach and dressing room environment. Punjab Kings enjoyed a stellar campaign in IPL 2025, finishing as runners-up and marking one of their best performances in the tournaments history. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab Kings and Gujarat Titans have faced each other six times in IPL history, with both sides giving tough competition to each other, as the head-to-head record is tied with PBKS winning three encounters, and GT also came victorious on three occasions. Article Source: IANS
LSG vs DC Match 5, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
LSG vs DC Match 5, Cricket Tips :The last two seasons have been below-par for Lucknow Super Giants, as they finished seventh in each edition. But Rishabh Pant and his men will look to start fresh and get a win to begin their campaign. LSG are scheduled to face Delhi Capitals in Lucknow on Wednesday. This contest will start at 7:30 PM IST at Ekana Stadium. LSG have a strong top four with Markram, Pooran, and Marsh; then they have a genuine pace unit with Shami, Nortje, Mayank, and Avesh, who can bowl fast consistently. On the other hand, DC have a more settled lineup with a strong top order with Rahul, Shaw, and Nissanka. Their middle order has Miller, Stubbs, and Rana. Their pace unit without Starc looks a little fragile, but Ngidi and Jamieson are good bowlers in this format. LSG vs DC: Match Details Date: April 01, 2026 (Wednesday) Time: 7:30 PM IST Venue: Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow LSG vs DC Live Streaming Details The live action of the LSG vs DC clash will be televised live on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the live stream of the game on the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. LSG vs DC Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 07 LSG : 03 DC : 04 No-Result : 00 LSG vs DC: Ground Pitch Report Ekana Stadium has a batting-friendly wicket, which is good for batting. The record suggests that this is a high-scoring venue with shorter boundaries and a fast outfield. The chasing team has done well here generally, because of the dew, which can come in the second innings. LSG vs DC Possible XIs LSG: Rishabh Pant (c & wk), Mitch Marsh, Aiden Markram, Nicholas Pooran, Ayush Badoni, Abdul Samad, Md. Shami, Shahbaz Ahmed, Avesh Khan, Anrich Nortje, Mayank Yadav DC : Pathum Nissanka, Prithvi Shaw, KL Rahul (wk), Nitish Rana, Tristan Stubbs, David Miller, Axar Patel , Auqib Nabi, Kuldeep Yadav, Lungi Ngidi, Mukesh Kumar LSG vs DC: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Aiden Markram was in great form in T20 World Cup 2026, and he will be the leading batter for LSG. For DC, KL Rahul is expected to bat at the top, and with his class, he will be the batter to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Mayank Yadav is fit and he will play this game. He is one of the fastest bowlers in this IPL and can trouble the batter with his pace. For DC, Lungi Ngidi will be the key because of his different slower balls, which are hard to pick. Today Match Prediction : DC have a little weaker bowling attack as compared to LSG. Then, the firepower of LSG at the top is another reason that we predict them to win this contest in Lucknow. LSG vs DC Match 5, IPL 2026, Today LSG vs DC Match, LSG vs DC Prediction, LSG vs DC Predicted XIs, Injury Update for LSG vs DC 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.
If Virat Kohli: RCB allrounder Krunal Pandya thinks that the clear environment within the team has enabled them to establish a more relaxed and confident rhythm after their championship win last season. I feel that this year there is a much calmer atmosphere. Last year it was a new team, and everyone got to know each other. This year, many players understand their roles and each other's strengths and weaknesses, he said. Krunal also credited captain Rajat Patidar at the helm, saying, Rajat has done a pretty amazing job captaining such a big franchise like RCB in his first season. The way he led the team last year was very special. He also emphasised the trust he has in wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma behind the stumps. A lot of credit goes to Jitesh behind the wickets as well. I feel very secure and trust him completely because wherever I bowl, he will grab the ball, he said. Krunal noted that the passion of RCB fans became clear to him shortly after joining the team, highlighting the strong bond between the team and its supporters. Last year, when we played our game against Chennai in the league stage and we were on the busI thought, People are so crazy about the team, and they want us to do well. We must win the trophy for the fans, he said. Krunal also discussed the example set by Virat Kohli within the group, stating, Virat is a classic example you can see that hunger; you can see that passion in how he sees the game and how much he wants that victory. If Virat Kohli had been born in any generation, he would still be one of the greats. He is not competing with anyone else. Krunal, the Player of the Match in last years final, discussed his strategy for managing pressure during crucial moments, emphasizing that staying present has been essential. When I get into the big occasions, I feel that if God has got you here, then there is a reason behind it. And sometimes I think that these big occasions are actually made for me. I feel the pressure, but I think about how I can be calm and in the present moment and do what is required Krunal thinks maintaining a long career in the sport relies on adapting to the changes in the game. What I've realised over a period of time is that to have longevity in any field, whether it's sport, whether it's business, you have to get better and you have to evolve. You can't be the same person or you can't have the same thought process to it. He also pointed to the IPL's evolution over the years. Every year IPL is evolving. You know what sort of batsmanship was there in 2016 and what it is in 2026, it's very different. Impact Player has played a massive role in the league in the last 3-4 years and that's why you see so many high-scoring games where now 200, 220 is actually chaseable. The game has gone from consistency to impact. At the end of the day what I've realised is that the basics of cricket remain the same. Yeah, I am an instinct player. But I do my research well. Although he has achieved success in franchise cricket, Krunal considers playing for India to be his ultimate goal. At the end of the day nothing beats playing for the country. Whenever I had the opportunity, I felt I performed well in both T20s and ODIs. Even now, representing India remains the ultimate goal. Although he has achieved success in franchise cricket, Krunal considers playing for India to be his ultimate goal. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I am a human being and sometimes it hurts that I have not played for the country for a long time. But it is part of the journey, and you keep doing your job. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: 'It's Going To Be A Cracker Of A Season For Sooryavanshi', Says Bangar
Indian Premier League: Vaibhav Sooryavanshis sensational start to Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 has already turned heads, with former India cricketer Sanjay Bangar predicting a blockbuster season for the teenage sensation after Rajasthan Royals dominant eight-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings on Monday. Dropped for nought, Sooryavanshi raced to a 15-ball fifty - the third fastest in IPL history - with four fours and five sixes, powering RR to 74 without loss in the Powerplay. Though he fell soon after for 52, the damage was done. Vaibhav Suryavanshi was a class apart. He dominated a good bowling attack. He took on Matt Henry, a new ball bowler, who challenges top batters internationally. He toyed with Khaleel Ahmed, who swings the ball both ways. He got the better of Anshul Kamboj, known for hitting the deck hard with good length deliveries. He even made life difficult for mystery bowler Noor Ahmad. At the age of 15, he dominated four quality bowlers with his fearless batting and forced them to move away from their strengths. Henry had to bowl slower balls. Khaleel had to try different things. He put pressure on all of them. That shows Vaibhav, with his fearless approach, is getting into the minds of established bowlers. I admired that quality in his innings. The start this wonder boy has had makes sure it's going to be a cracker of a season for him, Bangar said on Jio Star. Former India wicketkeeper Saba Karim also heaped praise on the youngster, highlighting both his aggression and growing maturity at the crease. Vaibhav Suryavanshi started IPL 2026 from where he left off last season. It was yet another dominating show of aggressive batting. A joy to watch him execute the shots he played. He showed maturity in his knock, targeting the right deliveries, and he did that by batting at a strike-rate of more than 250. The more he progresses at this level, the better he will become. He is becoming very sagacious now and one can sense there is some kind of wisdom in the way he executes his shots. The intent remains the same. There is aggression. There is this intent of clearing the boundary whenever he gets an opportunity, be it against a pace bowler or even against a spin bowler, Karim said. While Suryavanshi stole the spotlight with the bat, Rajasthans bowlers laid the foundation earlier in the evening, with Nandre Burger playing a crucial role in dismantling CSKs top order. England pacer Jofra Archer began by swinging the ball both ways to trouble Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the opening over. Nandre Burger then made the first breakthrough by knocking over Samson for 6 with a delivery that shaped away and crashed into the off-stump. Archer returned to remove Gaikwad in his second over - the CSK skipper backed away to access the off-side but missed a straight ball and was bowled for six. Burger intensified the collapse in the third over as Ayush Mhatre fell for a golden duck - gloving a bouncer to keeper Dhruv Jurel, as RR got the decision in their favour on review. Karim explained what made the left-arm pacer so effective on the night. Nandre Burger is rapid and his line and length was quite impeccable. He bowled a special delivery to dismiss Sanju Samson. It was a natural variation that took the ball away from Samson. He took Ayush Mhatre by surprise with his sharp bouncer. Left-arm pacers in any case flourish bowling those kinds of deliveries. Plus, since he is so rapid, he tends to hurry the batter and catches them off guard with unexpected deliveries. On a Guwahati pitch that was in favour of the pacers, Burger stuck to the good length deliveries, and they worked in a wonderful manner for him. Bangar also pointed out how Rajasthans new-ball pairing of Burger and Jofra Archer set the tone early, removing key CSK batters in quick succession. Left-arm pacers in any case flourish bowling those kinds of deliveries. Plus, since he is so rapid, he tends to hurry the batter and catches them off guard with unexpected deliveries. On a Guwahati pitch that was in favour of the pacers, Burger stuck to the good length deliveries, and they worked in a wonderful manner for him. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Once you get Sanju Samson out and then immediately in the next over you get the wicket of Ruturaj Gaikwad, it is icing on the cake. Those two are the most established batters of CSK, on whom the entire fulcrum of CSKs batting revolves. Getting those powerplay wickets is extremely critical for any bowler to stamp their authority and get ahead in the game. It went really well for RR. Article Source: IANS
Great Signs For Future Of South African Cricket, Says Sune Luus On Proteas Thrilling Win Over NZ
New Zealand Women: Sune Luus has hailed South Africas up-and-coming players as a promising sign for the future following a nerve-wracking victory over New Zealand Women in the opening ODI of their three-match series, which is a part of the ICC Womens Championship. The Proteas, runners-up at the ICC Womens Cricket World Cup 2025, clinched a dramatic two-wicket win in Christchurch, thanks largely to a fearless knock from 20-year-old Kayla Reyneke. The youngster finished unbeaten on 42 and sealed the contest in style with a last-ball six. Reflecting on the composure shown by the next generation, Luus expressed admiration for their confidence and maturity under pressure. Its great signs for the future of South African cricket. Its awesome just to see the players come in and just flourish like that, Luus said ahead of the second ODI. I think when we were younger, I cant remember being that confident or just coming in and hitting sixes for fun. Its really awesome to see how the womens game has grown and how Kayla just took responsibility and earned it, she added. South Africas victory was also built on a dominant bowling display from Ayabonga Khaka, who produced a career-best performance with six wickets to dismantle the White Ferns batting unit. She took wickets at crucial times. Shes been a senior bowler for us for a very long time and always takes responsibility and loves a good challenge. Im very happy for her. Its a great milestone to get a six-fer. Hopefully, she can just continue picking up all the wickets for the next couple of games, Luus shared. During the chase, Luus played a pivotal role with the bat, combining with Annerie Dercksen for a crucial 123-run partnership that steadied the innings and kept South Africa in contention. Derckie is an interesting one to bat with. I dont think she takes it very seriously. It was fun to bat with her. When shes in, the runs are just flowing. Shes a very powerful hitter of the ball. I think we were cruising when we came in, batting at a run-a-ball together. It was just important for us to stay calm and to have that long partnership, and just to take it as deep as possible. During the chase, Luus played a pivotal role with the bat, combining with Annerie Dercksen for a crucial 123-run partnership that steadied the innings and kept South Africa in contention. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With valuable points at stake in the ICC Womens Championship, Luus underlined the importance of building on the winning start as South Africa aim to secure direct qualification for the 2029 Womens World Cup. Article Source: IANS
Gatting leads calls for board resignations as anger at Middlesex grows
Group of prominent former players hits out at board ahead of AGM on April 15
Calls Grow For 15-Year-Old Vaibhav Suryavanshi To Make India Bow
There were growing calls Tuesday for teenager Vaibhav Suryavanshi to be fast-tracked into India's senior national team after slamming a 17-ball 52 to launch his IPL season. The batsman turned 15 last week, making him eligible to represent India under International Cricket Council rules, having already starred for his country at youth level. On Monday he smacked four fours and five sixes as Rajasthan Royals chased down a target of 128 with 7.5 overs to spare against Chennai Super Kings in Guwahati. The teenager made history in last year's IPL in a dazzling debut season highlighted by a 35-ball century, the second fastest in the history of the T20 tournament. Spin bowling great Anil Kumble compared Suryavanshi to batting legend Sachin Tendulkar, who made his full international debut aged 16. Yes, absolutely. If a player shows this level of consistency, he should be fasttracked, just like Sachin Tendulkar, Kumble said on JioHotstar. Suryavanshi has already made his mark at youth international level, hammering 175 off just 80 balls as India beat England in the Under-19 World Cup final in February. Former India batter Ambati Rayudu described Suryavanshi as a cut above a lot of youngsters in the country. He's a talent that will definitely do wonders for Indian cricket, Rayudu said on ESPNcricinfo. I don't know when, but definitely in the future. Inside the Rajasthan Royals camp, the leadership group has been focused on shielding the prodigy from the pressures of early fame. What I tell him is that you're going to play 14 games (in this season's IPL) and regardless of what goes on in the game, it shouldn't bother you, captain Riyan Parag said. What goes around in the media shouldn't bother you. He added following Monday's latest eye-catching display: Like everyone in the stands, we also had this feeling of 'wow', wondering how he is able to do this. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He is a talent and I am very glad that he is in our team, and not the opponent's, he said.
Who is Raj Bawa? Mumbai Indians Young All-Rounder with a Golden Sporting Legacy
For its IPL 2026 opener against Kolkata Knight Riders, the impact subs named by Mumbai Indians were: Surya Kumar Yadav, Corbin Bosch, Robin Minz, Raj Bawa and Ashwani Kumar. Who is this Raj Bawa? Raj Angad Bawa, a young cricketer from Chandigarh, is a seam-bowling all-rounder (left-handed batting and right-arm medium-fast bowling). He was one of the stars of Indias successful 2022 ICC U19 World Cup campaign. He smashed 162* against Uganda (the highest score of the event). It also became the highest individual score by any Indian at the U-19 World Cup, surpassing Sheikh Dhawans previous record of 155 from 2004. He then claimed a historic match-winning 5/31 in the final against England. This was the best bowling performance in a U-19 World Cup final. It didnt take him long to begin his IPL journey as Punjab Kings secured him in the 2022 auction for Rs.2 crore after an intense bidding war. However, his tenure with them was marked by limited opportunities (he scored 11 runs in two outings in the 2022 season and was not used as a bowler) and injury and was released prior to the 2024 auction. Ahead of the 2025 Mega Auction, Mumbai Indians got him for Rs. 30 lacs. Although he scored 8* in the single outing in the three matches played (and was not used as a bowler), the team continued to place their faith in the left-hander and retained him for IPL 2026. This has given him another opportunity to share the dressing room with some of the finest T20 cricketers to polish his skills at the highest level. Raj Angad Bawa has another introduction also, as he has an exciting legacy. He is grandson of an Olympic gold medallist, Trilochan Singh Bawa. His playing for India in the ICC U19 World Cup and then IPL has added a chapter of glory to this proud legacy. Not only did his grandfathers achievement on the Olympic stage serve as an inspiration, he has carried forward a family tradition of sporting excellence. Trilochan Singh Bawa, was part of India's hockey team that won the gold medal at the 1948 Olympics in London. Not only this, his father, Sukhwinder Singh Bawa, is considered among the first coaches of Yuvraj Singh, and in particular, he is often credited for having advised Yuvraj to bowl spin rather than fast. The family nourished the pursuit of sporting excellence. Although Raj didnt see much of his Olympian grandfather as he lost him at the age of five, its natural that Raj Bawa has high hopes riding on him. Trilochan Singh Bawa:At the London 1948 Olympics hockey final, India defeated England to win gold, by 4-0 and Trilochan Bawa scored one goal, which was his second goal at the Olympics. The 1948 hockey gold is considered as the start of Indian sporting glory as this was the first for India after independence. Sukhwinder Bawa:He was a renowned cricket coach, moulded India internationals like Yuvraj Singh and VR Singh. He played both hockey and cricket while young, but a spine injury in his 20s, forced him to concentrate on coaching. Raj Bawa:He has already earned a name for himself with his fine display and played a starring role in India winning the ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2022 for a record fifth time. He was born in Nahan (HP) but grew up in Chandigarh. He grew up listening to the stories of his grandfather from his grandmother and father, and they have stayed with him. Whenever I see that gold medal, it gives me goosebumps. I can only imagine how important an achievement it must have been, back then, Raj Bawa remembers. This medal has worked as a catalyst for Raj Bawa to live up to the sporting legacy of the family. Raj joined Sukhwinders coaching academy. Yuvraj Singh also trained here and was a hero for Raj. It is believed that Raj became a left-handed bat after watching Yuvraj. The 2022 U-19 World Cup brought success for Raj Bawa (who scored 252 runs and claimed nine wickets in six outings). He plays Ranji Trophy also. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Raj Bawa knows that he has a long way to go as quite a number of players have not been able to carry forward their under-19 success to the highest level, but he has the genes of an Olympic champion in him, so everyone is hopeful of his success. It will not be out of order to add here that India player Reetinder Singh Sodhi (18 ODIs) is Raj Babas cousin. He was also the hero and man of the match during the U-19 World Cup final in 2000, when India beat Sri Lanka.
Georgia Voll Tops T20I Rankings, Ends Mooneys 26-month Reign
T20I Rankings: Georgia Voll jumped eight spots to overtake fellow Australian Beth Mooney as the No. 1 ICC Womens T20I batter after scoring her first T20I century in the third and final match against the West Indies, helping her team to a 3-0 series sweep. Volls innings lifted her above 800 ratings points to a personal best of 815, securing her first top spot in the batting rankings, as Australia won the rain-affected match by 40 runs using the DLS method. Mooneys tenure, starting in January 2024 after replacing Tahlia McGrath, concluded when Voll scored a 52-ball century during their sweep of the hosts at Kingstown, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. This was a solid result, just 72 days before the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 opener in England and Wales. Amelia Kerr, New Zealand's captain, maintained her exceptional all-round form during their home series against South Africa. She has now become the fourth Kiwi to lead the womens all-rounders rankings, joining Rebecca Steele, Aimee Watkins, and Sophie Devine. Kerr replaced West Indies captain Hayley Matthews at the top of the list after scoring 105 and taking two wickets for only six runs in Christchurch's final T20I, leading to a 95-run win over the visitors. She also rose to sixth among batters and tenth among bowlers. Matthews had held the number one all-rounder spot since October 2023 when she first overtook Ash Gardner. There have also been significant changes in the Womens ODI Player Rankings after the first ODI between the White Ferns and the Proteas in Christchurch. Maddie Green advanced four spots to 13th on the batters list after scoring 85 runs in her teams losing effort. They were defeated by the tourists in a tense final-ball finish, with South Africas debutant, Kayla Reyneke, hitting a six to secure a two-wicket win in the end. South Africas Annerie Dercksen scored 72 off 93 balls, moving up nine places to 42nd among batters. Meanwhile, her teammate Ayabonga Khaka achieved her career-best ODI performance with six for 56, climbing three spots to 17th among bowlers. Amelia and her sister Jessica Kerr each took two wickets in the first match. Amelia moved up two places to ninth, while Jessica stayed in 13th. In St. Kitts and Nevis, Australia has established an unbeatable 2-0 lead in their three-match series against the West Indies, winning by 103 runs in the first match and by 90 runs in the second. Despite the team's poor results, Stefanie Taylors undefeated century (105 off 129 balls) brought some joy to the West Indies, as she jumped 10 spots to 28th in the ICC Womens ODI Batting Rankings. In St. Kitts and Nevis, Australia has established an unbeatable 2-0 lead in their three-match series against the West Indies, winning by 103 runs in the first match and by 90 runs in the second. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Finally, Australias Georgia Wareham moved up eight places to rank 16th among all-rounders after scoring 81 runs and taking four wickets in the first two ODIs against the West Indies. Article Source: IANS
McDonald Says Greens Return To Form In Tests Is only A Matter Of Time
West Indies World Cup: Australias team management has thrown its full support behind Cameron Green despite a disappointing Ashes campaign at home, with head coach Andrew McDonald emphasising that the allrounder remains central to the nations long-term Test plans. Green struggled to make an impact during the series against England, managing modest returns of 24.42 with the bat and 70.75 with the ball. His underwhelming performances were further highlighted by the emergence of Beau Webster, who impressed in limited opportunities with a quick 71 runs and three wickets in his lone appearance. However, McDonald made it clear that Greens place in the side is not under immediate threat. Speaking to SEN Radio, the coach expressed confidence in the 25-year-olds ability to deliver at the highest level in due course. He (Green) is good enough and its only a matter of time before it gets to a situation where hes performing for Australia, McDonald said when asked whether the team would continue to back him in the Test XI. A key factor behind that faith is Greens strong record in domestic red-ball cricket. While his Test numbers after 37 matches stand at a batting average of 32.75 and a bowling average of 38.94, his first-class performances paint a far stronger picture. He averages 45.52 overall in first-class cricket, a figure that climbs to 53.38 in the Sheffield Shield. Anyone thats averaging that at Shield level suggests that hes ahead of the pack there. To me, its only a matter of time before that connects into Test cricket, McDonald noted. The coach also acknowledged the heightened expectations placed on allrounders in Australian cricket, pointing out that several past players required time to find consistency at the international level. He referenced figures such as Mitchell Marsh, Shane Watson, and Andrew Symonds as examples. You only have to look a short time ago: Mitch Marshs journey, and Shane Watson, and even Andrew Symonds at the start of his career. There is an expectation around allrounders, its almost like they want them to average 45 with the bat and less than 30 with the ball. And theres been very few that do that, he said. Looking ahead, McDonald suggested that Australia could experiment with combinations that include both Green and Webster, especially following the retirement of Usman Khawaja, who vacated a middle-order role late in his career. If you looked at the last team, let's just take that, Usman [Khawaja] has retired, and he vacates the No. 5 position where he was opening and he went to five to finish off [during the final stages of his career]. But you've got Webster and Green that potentially can play in the same team, should we see it that way, so that gives us incredible flexibility. McDonald also addressed Australias disappointing T20 World Cup campaign, where the team exited in the group stage after losses to Zimbabwe and Sri Lanka. He described the performance as well below expectations, particularly given the teams strong record leading into the tournament. Yeah, not our finest and an incredibly disappointing campaign. For a team that's over the two-year period post the West Indies World Cup, winning at 80% and doing a lot right, we did have a few moving parts late, he said. Injuries to key players, including Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins, along with Mitchell Marsh missing the opening games, disrupted preparations, though McDonald was quick to avoid excuses. Yeah, not our finest and an incredibly disappointing campaign. For a team that's over the two-year period post the West Indies World Cup, winning at 80% and doing a lot right, we did have a few moving parts late, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia will now turn their attention to their next Test assignment, a two-match home series against Bangladesh scheduled for August, with matches set to be played in Darwin and Mackay. Article Source: IANS
Sooryavanshi Is Too Good To Not Play For India: Ashwin
Chennai Super Kings: Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin heaped rich praise on teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi after his breathtaking innings powered Rajasthan Royals (RR) to a commanding eight-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in their IPL 2026 opener in Guwahati on Monday, and mentioned that he must not be hurried into Indias international setup. Sooryavanshi's explosive 52 off just 17 balls, which saw him make a 15-ball half-century, dismantled CSKs bowling attack and set up the chase after RR had earlier restricted the five-time champions to a below-par total of 127. The youngsters fearless strokeplay in the powerplay, where RR raced to 74 without loss, left the opposition with no way back. Ashwin urged patience in handling the 15-year-old prodigy and cautioned against rushing his progression. Dont give him such a target. He is not even a guy, he is a kid. If MS Dhoni is playing till 45 (44), and if Sooryavanshi plays till 40, he has two and a half decades left in cricket. Leave him alone, he will come on his own when the time is right. He is too good to not play for India. He will play anyway eventually. When will he play? For that, we might have to wait a bit. Why are we always in a hurry? Ashwin said while speaking on his YouTube channel. Ashwin urged patience in handling the 15-year-old prodigy and cautioned against rushing his progression. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RR began their IPL 2026 campaign in dominant fashion with a victory over CSK. Sooryavanshi was the stand-out performer, hitting the third fastest fifty in IPL history. After Sooryavanshis dismissal, Yashasvi Jaiswal (38*) and skipper Riyan Parag (14*) comfortably guided the team home with 47 balls remaining. Article Source: IANS
Leaving CSK Was Very Emotional, But Changes Are Part Of The Journey: Jadeja
Chennai Super Kings: All-rounder Ravindra Jadeja reflected on an emotional outing against his former side, Chennai Super Kings, after playing a key role in Rajasthan Royals (RR) emphatic eight-wicket win in their IPL 2026 opener at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on Monday. Facing CSK for the first time following a high-profile trade that also involved Sam Curran moving to RR and Sanju Samson heading the other way, Jadeja admitted the transition had not been easy. Im liking the pink colour. The yellow had started to feel a bit old, but Im just joking. Obviously, leaving a franchise like CSK, where I had played for 12-13 years, was a little difficult initially. It was very emotional. But I told myself that changes like these are also part of the journey. The good thing was that Im now with the team where I had first won an IPL title, Jadeja told JioStar. That memory has always stayed with me, that after the Under-19 World Cup, I started my IPL career there and won the title in my very first season. I have carried those memories along with a positive mindset, and my aim is to learn as much as I can with the new group and also share my experience with the team, he added. Jadejas impact was felt with the ball as RR bundled CSK out for 127, setting up a comfortable chase that was headlined by a blistering knock from Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Speaking about the conditions at the ACA Stadium, Jadeja highlighted how the surface played to his strengths. The wicket was a bit sticky, so it suited my kind of bowling. My job was simply to bowl in the right areas. When you hit the right areas on a wicket that is holding up slightly, the ball tends to grip and come slower, which feels good as a bowler. Getting such a surface to bowl on in the very first match boosts your confidence as a bowler. I was thinking of bowling it at the stumps, as I wanted to take a chance in case he didnt middle it. But when he hit me for a six, I quickly changed my strategy to bowling wide, as he would have kept hitting me on a straight line. So, I decided to finish on the fifth-sixth-stump line, thinking that if he went across, he might not get his timing right, and that's what happened. Luckily, he did not get the elevation he was looking for, and it was a big wicket for us. A key moment in the innings was his dismissal of Shivam Dube, a known power-hitter who could have shifted momentum. Jadeja also explained the thinking behind his animated celebration after the wicket. I was thinking of bowling it at the stumps, as I wanted to take a chance in case he didnt middle it. But when he hit me for a six, I quickly changed my strategy to bowling wide, as he would have kept hitting me on a straight line. So, I decided to finish on the fifth-sixth-stump line, thinking that if he went across, he might not get his timing right, and that's what happened. Luckily, he did not get the elevation he was looking for, and it was a big wicket for us. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jadejas all-round display, coupled with RRs clinical performance, marked a strong start for the franchise as they opened their IPL 2026 campaign with a statement victory over their former stalwarts side. Article Source: IANS
BCCI Secy Saikia: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia lauded the efforts of ground staff and organisers after the Indian Premier League (IPL) clash between Rajasthan Royals (RR) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) commenced on schedule despite challenging weather conditions. The match, held at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium (ACA), was marred by persistent rainfall in the days leading up to the fixture, along with showers just hours before the scheduled start. Saikia praised the unsung heroes working behind the scenes, crediting their dedication and efficiency for ensuring the game proceeded without delay. His remarks highlighted the crucial role played by ground staff in maintaining match readiness under pressure. Kudos to the unsung heroes behind the scenes! Despite relentless rainfall over the past several daysand even showers till just about an hour before the scheduled startthe match between Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings at the ACA Stadium commenced right on time yesterday. This remarkable feat is a testament to the dedication, expertise, and tireless efforts of our curators and groundsmen. Their professionalism ensured that the playing conditions were match-ready against all odds. A big salute to these silent contributors who make the game possiblerain or shine, Saikia wrote on X. Saikia praised the unsung heroes working behind the scenes, crediting their dedication and efficiency for ensuring the game proceeded without delay. His remarks highlighted the crucial role played by ground staff in maintaining match readiness under pressure. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After Sooryavanshis dismissal, Yashasvi Jaiswal (38*) and skipper Riyan Parag (14*) comfortably guided the team home with 47 balls remaining. Earlier, RRs disciplined bowling attack restricted the Ruturaj Gaikwad-led side to a below-par total of 127, setting up a one-sided contest that highlighted both their bowling control and explosive batting firepower. Article Source: IANS
Canterbury take Plunket Shield title after tight race needs second tie-breaker
Otago's victory over Wellington in the final round wasn't enough to clinch top spot
Karn Sharma: The Lucky Charm Spinner with 3 IPL Titles
One of the news after the IPL 2026 mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi, was that Karn Sharma (left-hand batsman and leg break bowler) went unsold. The world didnt pay any significant attention to this veteran leg-spinner with base price Rs. 50 lacs, remaining unsold, but anyone who knows him, realised that all 10 teams missed a chance to include this lucky charm in their side. He has so far represented SunRisers Hyderabad, Mumbai Indians, Chennai Super Kings, and Royal Challengers Bengaluru and believes that, in an IPL career of only 90 matches, he has won 3 IPL titles. He is particularly remembered for being a superstar for MI in the 2017 season as he claimed 13 wickets in nine innings at an economy of 6.97 and played an instrumental role in powering them to their third IPL title (including a spectacular 4/16 in Qualifier 2). In IPL 2025, he didnt do badly and picked up seven wickets in six at an economy of 8.53 and was successful in containing the opposition batters with his firki, leading MI to victories, before getting injured. Probably his 38+ age and fitness factor went against him, and even they were not interested in him for 2026. He has so far played in 12 out of a total of 18 seasons and in 3 of them has won a winners' medal and that too winning back-to-back IPL trophies. This is a rare IPL achievement, difficult to match for anyone. Further, he did it with three different franchises, which looks like a crazy fact: 2016: won the IPL with Sunrisers Hyderabad but was released. 2017: Bought by Mumbai Indians, won the title and, despite an incredible performance, he was not retained. 2018: Bought by Chennai Super Kings and this time they won the title. Meerut continued giving fine bowlers to cricket but, unlike Praveen Kumar and Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Karn Sharma is a leg spinner. As an uncapped cricketer, he featured for RCB in 2009 (1 match) under a contract of Rs. 20 lacs and after that he was a forgotten man. In 2013, SRH brought him for Rs. 30 lacs under an uncapped contract, and he claimed 11 wickets in 13 matches at an economy rate of 6.60 and formed a lethal pair with India leg spinner Amit Mishra, and they took SRH to the semi-finals in their first season. He was under the hammer for the first time in 2014 and bagged an IPL contract for Rs 3.75 crore from Sunrisers Hyderabad, which was the highest amount spent on a domestic uncapped player in that auction. Took 15 wickets at 25.06 and the last two-season performance earned him not only an India A call, within four months he debuted for India in all the three formats. T20I debut against England in September 2014: Played 1 match and took 1 wicket. ODI debut against Sri Lanka in November 2014: Played only 2 matches without a wicket. Test debut against Australia in December 2014: Played only one Test, took 4 wickets and got out his IPL teammate David Warner in both innings. Quickest to Debut for India Men across formats: 14 days - Mukesh Kumar, 44 - T Natarajan, 59 - Bhuvneshwar Kumar, 76 - Harshit Rana and 93 - Karn Sharma. He is one of the five men who have played four international matches (covering all three formats): Naman Ojha from India (one Test, one ODI and two T20Is) Karn Sharma from India (1-2-1) Scott Borthwick from England (1-2-1) Charlton Tshuma from Zimbabwe (1-2-1) Mohammad Saleem from Afghanistan (1-2-1) Only Nonkhululeko Peaceful Thabethe, South Africa's women cricketer, has the better record and on the India tour in 2014, she made her debut in all the three formats and didnt add to her match tally after that. In 2015, Karn was the lead spin bowler for SRH and in the 2016 season, he won the IPL with them. Incidentally, SRH is the only IPL side who has used Karn Sharma for 10 or more matches in a season. IPL 2017: MI brought him for Rs. 3.2 crores, and he won his second IPL title (in the final, conceded only 18 runs in 4 overs, including 12 dot balls). IPL 2018: Brought by the CSK for Rs.5 crores and went on to win the title. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK, although it retained him, didnt use him. This impacted his mark and he was absent from IPL 2021 and 2022. He was bought by the RCB and played in the 2023 and 2024 seasons with them. Then it was the turn of MI to remember him again for IPL 2025.
Robinson, Sears Among 9 Int'l Players Named In NZ 'A' Squads For SL Tour
Selection Manager Gavin Larsen: Nine players with international experience have been named across the New Zealand A (NZ A) squads to tour Sri Lanka later this month. The tour comprises three 50-over matches and two four-day matches across Galle and Hambantota, starting April 5. Eight BlackCaps feature in the NZ 'A' 50-over squad in Muhammad Abbas, Adithya Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Mitch Hay, Ben Lister, Rhys Mariu, Ben Sears, and Tim Robinson. Abbas, Ashok, Clarke, and Sears will depart the A tour to join the ODI squad in Bangladesh, with Robinson also departing after the first red-ball game to join the BlackCaps T20I squad. The red-ball squad will be bolstered by four pace-bowlers in New Zealand's latest Test debutant Michael Rae, Otagos Jarrod McKay, and Canterburys Fraser Sheat, along with allrounders Auckland Aces RyanHarrison and Wellington Firebirds Peter Younghusband. Maiden NZ A call-ups have been earned by Harrison, McKay, Sheat, and Younghusband, as well as Auckland Aces Rohit Gulati, after impressive performances for their provinces throughout the season. Selection Manager Gavin Larsen said it was exciting to reward players with opportunities to continue their development. Being able to offer some of our best performing domestic players opportunities to work on their game overseas is crucial to the success of ourhighperformanceprogramme. Weve seen some incredible successes during the summer, with series wins against England, the West Indies, India away, and South Africa, all while relying heavily on our stocks in our domestic system, he said. The 50-Over squad depart to Sri Lanka on Friday 3 April, followed by the four-day squad members on 10 April. Squads: The 50-Over squad depart to Sri Lanka on Friday 3 April, followed by the four-day squad members on 10 April. Also Read: Live Cricket Score NZ A to Sri Lanka four-day: Matthew Boyle, Max Chu, Rohit Gulati, Ryan Harrison, Mitch Hay, Curtis Heaphy, Simon Keene, Ben Lister, Rhys Mariu, Jarrod McKay, Dale Phillips, Tim Pringle, Michael Rae, Tim Robinson, Fraser Sheat, Peter Younghusband Article Source: IANS
Sooryavanshi 'definitely in the race' for higher honours
If he plays like that, would love to see him fast-tracked, Piyush Chawla says after Vaibhav Sooryavanshi slammed 52 in 17 balls for Rajasthan Royals against Chennai Super Kings
Soon after turning 15, Sooryavanshi begins IPL 2026 with 15-ball fifty
Sooryavanshi raced to a 15-ball fifty in a game where CSK were bowled out for 127
Sooryavanshi, Archer, Burger demolish CSK
Burger, Archer and Jadeja share six wickets to dismiss new-look CSK for 127
Fisher, O'Rourke, Tickner Return To NZ Squad For Bangladesh White-ball Series
New Delhi: New Zealand has strengthened their pace attack with the return of Matt Fisher, Will ORourke, and Blair Tickner. All three have been named in the Blackcaps squads for the upcoming white-ball tour of Bangladesh later this month. These fast bowlers are making their comeback after injuries disrupted their home summer. O'Rourke returns from a back issue to join the ODI squad. Fisher is back from a shin injury for the T20Is, while Tickner, who had an ankle problem, is included in both formats. Blackcaps head coach Rob Walter welcomed their return and highlighted their hard work. Will, Blair, and Matt have been working very hard over the past few months to get themselves back on the field and in contention for selection, and were pleased to have them back in the group. With the amount of cricket being played today, having depth in our bowling is crucial. Having players of this quality return is great for our side. The squads also include off-spinning allrounder Dean Foxcroft, who is back in the white-ball setup for the first time since April 2024. Playing for the Central Stags in the 202526 domestic season, Foxcroft played a significant role in their run to the Ford Trophy final, finishing as the competition's fourth-highest run-scorer. With regular white-ball captain Mitch Santner occupied with the Mumbai Indians in the IPL, Test skipper Tom Latham will lead both squads. Several players earned their spots after strong performances for New Zealand A in Sri Lanka. This includes Muhammad Abbas, Adithya Ashok, Kristian Clarke, and Ben Sears. Clarke and Jayden Lennox particularly impressed during New Zealands historic ODI series win in India earlier this year. The coaching staff will have Walter supported by Jonny Bassett-Graham, Brendon Donkers, and Josh Tasman-Jones for the tour. The Blackcaps are set to leave New Zealand on April 13, with the first ODI scheduled for April 17. Squads: ODI: Tom Latham (C), Muhammad Abbas, Adithya Ashok, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Dane Cleaver, Dean Foxcroft, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Henry Nicholls, Will ORourke, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Blair Tickner, Will Young ODI: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Tom Latham (C), Katene Clarke, Kristian Clarke, Josh Clarkson, Dane Cleaver, Matt Fisher, Dean Foxcroft, Bevon Jacobs, Nick Kelly, Jayden Lennox, Tim Robinson, Ben Sears, Nathan Smith, Ish Sodhi, Blair Tickner Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: I Think Everyone Executed Plans Really Nicely, Says RR Skipper Parag
Chennai Super Kings: Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag hailed his sides collective execution after they crushed Chennai Super Kings by eight wickets in their IPL 2026 opening game at the ACA Stadium on Monday. I got lucky with the toss, but I think the way we executed it, we had like a couple of days' practice, I think, before CSK arrived, and it was a red-soil wicket, but then it was a lot of rain as well, so we knew the moisture was going to play a part. I think everyone executed plans really nicely. Definitely like this better. A lot of preparation has gone into this. I know me being captain is one part which I should be happy about and I should thank the franchise for it, but then the goal this year is to win the trophy, and we've put in a lot of time towards planning, strategizing. I've said this in an interview before that we want to be a team that plays smart cricket. We want to assess conditions really well and adapt to it and I think that we did that pretty well today, said Parag at the conclusion of the game. RR bowled out CSK for just 127 before Vaibhav Sooryavanshis fireworks 52 off 17 balls - ensured the chase was wrapped up in just 12.1 overs, giving Parag a perfect start to his tenure as full-time captain. Parag praised the pace duo of Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger for their fiery spells, lauded Sandeep Sharma and Ravindra Jadeja for their control, and singled out debutant Brijesh Sharma for his composure in front of a packed Guwahati crowd. Everyone who came in, Jof and Nandre, we expect that from them every single time, they were rapid. Sandy bhaiya doing his job. Jaddu bhaiya coming in, I think Guwahati suited him a little bit more. Then Brijesh, the youngster, I think him coming in first game against CSK with the packed crowd, what he did was insane, so I'm really looking forward to the season. Asked on his conversations with Sooryavanshi, Parag said, What I tell him is that you're going to play 14 games and regardless of what goes on in the game, it shouldn't bother you. What goes around in the media shouldn't bother you. You just go out there. He loves to bat. I've made sure I've told the coaches that he gets as much batting as he wants and he goes and does some things like that. So I think me and Dhruv, when we were sitting there till the fourth over, we were just in awe. Like, what is happening? Like, how is he doing this? But then I'm really happy to have him in my team. With Jurel coming at three, Parag said this is going to be RR's batting order. Yes, that is what we've been planning on. Dhruv comes in at three, Hetty (Hetmyer) bats at five, because I think we need that lefty-righty in the later half of the innings as well. So hopefully this sticks and we win a few games with this batting line-up, he said. CSK skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad said conditions were tough but stressed the need for improvement. I felt the conditions at the start were really tough, especially when facing Jofra and Burger. They bowled brilliant lengths and even after that, to a medium-pacer it was slightly tough. You could see even the spinners were getting some assistance as well. Yes, we would have been better in batting, we would have taken the game deep, showed some batsmanship, maybe take the game till 150-160. But, nowadays, you never know what's a good score, so you just have to keep going. So I think it just one of those days where the wicket was slightly on the tougher side. So not frustrated at all, he said. Asked on how CSK will reassess the loss as a group, Gaikwad said, You just put it behind and move on. We've got a game in another three days. Make sure that everyone is in a good headspace. One good thing is, a lot of youngsters in the group. So, probably a nervy start for everyone, but good to get a game behind and good to start with lot of mistakes. But, nowadays, you never know what's a good score, so you just have to keep going. So I think it just one of those days where the wicket was slightly on the tougher side. So not frustrated at all, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So I think it's just about backing yourself, backing your game for the batsmen. If you have it in your area, just make sure you go for it. Today it didn't work but we can be better in batsmanship. You just have to be positive, especially when you're batting first. If conditions are good, you never know, the same batting line-up can put a good score, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Plan Was To Control The Game In The Powerplay, Says Sooryavanshi
Chennai Super Kings: Teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, who lit up the ACA Stadium with a blistering 52 off 17 balls in Rajasthan Royals securing an eight-wicket win over Chennai Super Kings, said the teams focus was on dominating the powerplay in a modest chase of 128 at the ACA Stadium. I didnt really do anything outside - there was supposed to be a cake cutting, but I went to sleep early to avoid the cake-smearing (on how he celebrated his birthday last week). The plan today was simply to execute well in the powerplay - initially the wicket felt a bit sticky, but as the ball got older, it started coming onto the bat nicely. I do think about defence, but today our plan was to control the game in the powerplay because in a small chase, that phase is crucial - if the bowling team does well there, the game can tilt their way, but our powerplay went really well, he said at the conclusion of the game. His explosive knock, also the third fastest fifty in IPL history, ensured RRs chase of 128 was virtually sealed inside the first six overs. Yashasvi Jaiswal and skipper Riyan Parag later completed the formalities with 47 balls to spare and capped off a dominant performance that began with incisive spells from Jofra Archer, Nandre Burger and Ravindra Jadeja to bowl out CSK for 127. Asked about guidance from coaches and fellow opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sooryavanshi said, The coaches didnt specifically say that bowlers would attack me - everyone else was already saying that - but they just told me that they back me and that I should stick to my natural game and play according to the situation. My opening partner (Jaiswal) keeps communicating with me after every ball - he tells me when to take singles, keeps giving me the strike, and encourages me to keep playing my shots if the ball is coming nicely onto the bat (on partnership understanding), he said. Player of the Match Nandre Burger, who picked 2-26, credited his sides strong start with the ball leading to their win. Firstly, all glory to God - it feels great to contribute to a win for the team and get us off to a good start. Watching the previous games with big scores, you naturally prepare for chasing something big, so winning the toss and getting the ball first was massive for us and helped us get off to a strong start. My opening partner (Jaiswal) keeps communicating with me after every ball - he tells me when to take singles, keeps giving me the strike, and encourages me to keep playing my shots if the ball is coming nicely onto the bat (on partnership understanding), he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The dressing room feels pretty similar to before - there are a few new faces and changes like the coach and captain, but the energy is good, everyone is smiling, and hopefully this is a positive start so we can keep that momentum going, he said. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Sooryavanshi, Bowlers Power RR To Thumping Eight-wicket Win Over CSK (Ld)
Chennai Super Kings: Built on incisive new-ball spells from Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger, a double-strike from Ravindra Jadeja, and a blistering 52 from teenage opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Rajasthan Royals launched their IPL 2026 campaign with a commanding eight-wicket victory over Chennai Super Kings at the ACA Stadium on Monday. CSK, missing MS Dhoni and Dewald Brevis, were bundled out for just 127 after being rocked early on a red-soil pitch offering swing and seam to Archer and Burger. Jadeja struck twice in his first over and marked a successful return to RR after 17 years, while debutant Brijesh Sharma chipped in with a breakthrough. Only Jamie Overton showed resistance, counterattacking at number eight to hit 43 off 36 balls to drag CSK past 120 from 84/8 and save them from the ignominy of being bowled out for below 100, though the end total was still below-par. In reply, Sooryavanshi turned the chase into a one-man exhibition. Dropped for nought, he raced to a 15-ball fifty - the third fastest in IPL history - with four fours and five sixes, powering RR to 74 without loss in the Powerplay. Though he fell soon after for 52, the damage was done. Yashasvi Jaiswal (38 not out) and skipper Riyan Parag (14 not out) calmly finished the chase with 47 balls to spare. Archer began by swinging the ball both ways to trouble Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the opening over. Nandre Burger then made the first breakthrough by knocking over Samson for 6 with a delivery that shaped away and crashed into the off-stump. Archer returned to remove Gaikwad in his second over - the CSK skipper backed away to access the off-side but missed a straight ball and was bowled for six. Burger intensified the collapse in the third over as Ayush Mhatre fell for a golden duck - gloving a bouncer to keeper Dhruv Jurel, as RR got the decision in their favour on review. Sarfaraz Khan came in as the impact substitute and began his resistance by pulling Burger for four and six in successive balls. After debutant Brijesh Sharma impressed by conceding only six runs in the fourth over, Sarfaraz kept counterattacking to keep the scoreboard ticking. Sandeep Sharma struck immediately in the final over of power-play as Matthew Short, who struggled to get going, chipped a slower ball straight to mid-wicket for two, as CSK closed the power-play at 41/4. Post that, CSK suffered two major blows - Sarfaraz attempted a sweep off ex-CSK stalwart Ravindra Jadeja, but missed it and was trapped lbw for 17, while Shivam Dube holed out to long-off. CSKs slide continued as Brijesh Sharma beat Kartiks inside edge, and trapped him plumb lbw for 18, while Noor Ahmed edged behind to Jurel off Archer and Ravi Bishnoi took a sharp caught and bowled chance after foxing Matt Henry with a googly. But thanks to Jamie Overton nailing boundaries alongside Anshul Kamboj, CSK were able to cross the 120-mark, before a complete confusion resulted in the former being run-out. RR had a flying start as Matt Henrys opening over went for 18 runs, with Sooryavanshi pulling and driving for boundaries (including Kartik Sharma dropping him for zero) while Jaiswal glanced him fine for four. Khaleel Ahmed thought he had Sooryavanshi lbw on the first ball of his spell, but review showed the ball going over leg stump. Jaiswal played watchfully even as Sooryavanshi continued to attack to keep the runs flowing. Henrys second over was taken apart by Sooryavanshi - slashing a slower ball over backward point for six, while Jaiswal muscled Khaleel straight over mid-off for four. Anshul Kamboj was greeted with three boundaries as Sooryavanshi ramped and tickled him over third man and fine leg before smashing a six over long-on, as RR crossed the fifty-run mark. Noor Ahmads introduction did little to stem the flow as Sooryavanshi launched consecutive sixes over long-on to bring up a blistering fifty off just 15 balls, as 19 runs came off the sixth over to take RR to 74/0 at the end of the power-play. But just after that, Sooryavanshi attempted to flay a length ball over cover but Sarfaraz Khan ran in from the deep and completed a diving catch at deep extra cover to dismiss him for 52. Noor Ahmads introduction did little to stem the flow as Sooryavanshi launched consecutive sixes over long-on to bring up a blistering fifty off just 15 balls, as 19 runs came off the sixth over to take RR to 74/0 at the end of the power-play. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Chennai Super Kings 127 in 19.4 overs (Jamie Overton 43, Kartik Sharma 18; Ravindra Jadeja 2-18, Jofra Archer 2-19) lost to Rajasthan Royals 128/2 in 12.1 overs (Vaibhav Sooryavanshi 52, Yashasvi Jaiswal 38 not out; Anshul Kamboj 2-27) by eight wickets Article Source: IANS
Fisher, O'Rourke, Tickner return from injuries for white-ball tour of Bangladesh
Dean Foxcroft, meanwhile, returns to the white-ball set-up for the first time since April 2024
IPL 2026: Why did MS Dhoni skip RR vs CSK match?
MS Dhoni skips Chennai Super Kings' opening IPL 2026 match against Rajasthan Royals due to a calf injury sustained during pre-season. He is expected to be out for at least the first two weeks of the tournament, with the possibility of missing the entire first half.
Rajasthan: RCA Elections Soon, Says New Convener
Jodhpur District Cricket Association: The newly appointed Convener of the Rajasthan Cricket Associations (RCA) Ad-hoc Committee, Mohit Yadav, has signalled sweeping reforms, stating that long-pending RCA elections will be held at the earliest. Yadav said the responsibility entrusted by the state government would be carried out with seriousness and commitment. Our focus is to improve both the functioning and direction of the RCA. Positive results will soon be visible, he said. Addressing the dispute with former convener Deendayal Kumawat, Yadav acknowledged differences but maintained that cricketing activities should not suffer. Our working styles differed, but the objective remained the same. Some targets could not be achieved earlier, but we will now accomplish them with the new team, he added. The newly constituted Ad-hoc Committee includes Mohit Yadav, Dhananjay Singh Khimsar, Ashish Tiwari, Arisht Singhvi, and Arjun Beniwal, all of whom have taken charge. Yadav emphasised that conducting RCA elections, which have been pending for nearly two years, would be the top priority. We will expedite the process to ensure the association gets a permanent, democratically elected leadership, he said. He also expressed dissatisfaction over Rajasthan being allotted only four IPL matches this season, calling it inadequate. Yadav assured better planning to secure more matches for the state next year and said efforts would also be made to organise the Rajasthan Premier League (RPL) locally. Dhananjay Singh Khimsar, a senior committee member and president of the Jodhpur District Cricket Association, expressed confidence in the new leadership. Quoting a couplet, he said, Let us leave yesterday behind; now is the time to write a new story together. He added, Under Mohit Yadavs leadership, we are confident that elections will be completed soon and a new chapter will begin. Referring to ongoing disputes, Khimsar remarked, Truth may face setbacks, but it can never be defeated, signalling a move to move past controversies. Responding to criticism by former Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot regarding the presence of politicians sons in the setup, committee member Ashish Tiwari defended the appointments. Referring to ongoing disputes, Khimsar remarked, Truth may face setbacks, but it can never be defeated, signalling a move to move past controversies. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With the new Ad-hoc Committee in place, expectations have risen for early elections and improved cricket administration in Rajasthan, potentially ushering in a new phase for the sport in the state. Article Source: IANS
Jake Weatherald joins Leicestershire for opening rounds of Championship
Australia opener will be captained by Ian Holland in club's return to top flight for first time in 22 years
Naseem Shah Fined Rs 20 Million For Violation Of PCBs Central Contract Terms: Report
PCB Social Media Guidelines: Young fast bowler Naseem Shah has been fined Rs 20 million (US 7100 dollars) for a derogatory tweet on chief minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz and directed to terminate his social media influencer. Naseem had shown ignorance over a tweet asking why Ms Nawaz was treated like a Queen of Lords at the opening ceremony of the Pakistan Super League on Thursday, sources told Telecom Asia Sport. Sources said Ms Nawaz had accepted Naseems apology and was ready to pardon the youngster for his offence but the disciplinary committee was not ready to forgive Naseem. Naseems stance that his tweeter account was hacked was not accepted, said sources. The disciplinary committee proceedings pertaining to breaches of various clauses of Naseem Shah's Central Contract and the PCB Social Media Guidelines., said PCB. The PCB had issued a show cause notice dated 27th March 2026 outlining the violations and sought a response for Naseem. A personal hearing was then held by a three member Disciplinary Committee on 30th March 2025 after Naseem Shah's reply had been received and reviewed. Pursuant to the hearing and evaluation of Naseem's submissions the Committee has determined as under: Whilst noting the unconditional apology tendered, Naseem is found to have breached various clauses of his Central Contract and a fine of PKR 2 crores has been imposed. Pursuant to the hearing and evaluation of Naseem's submissions the Committee has determined as under: Also Read: Live Cricket Score The PCB remains committed to upholding professional standards, contractual obligations and the integrity of the game. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: I Think Pink Looks Good On Me, Says Jadeja On Return To Rajasthan Royals
Chennai Super Kings: Veteran left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja marked his comeback in Rajasthan Royals (RR) colours after 17 years with a double-wicket blow against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at the ACA Stadium and said he felt pink looks good on him. Jadejas spell of 2/18 where he extracted turn, and brought in subtle changes of pace - helped RR tighten their grip on the contest after Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger had rocked CSK early. Mondays match also saw Jadeja set a new IPL record for longest gap between appearances for the same franchise. I think pink looks good on me, I guess. Ive known Shivam Dube for a long time - Ive bowled to him in the nets, so I understand how he approaches spinners. I was prepared for that and tried to bowl outside off, because I knew he would look to play big shots against me, said Jadeja in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Jadejas dismissal of impact substitute Sarfaraz Khan and Shivam Dube proved to be pivotal as inaugural champions RR bowled out five-time winners CSK for 127. Jadeja had given Dube a fiery send-off, a moment that quickly was taken note of by social media followers. I think pink looks good on me, I guess. Ive known Shivam Dube for a long time - Ive bowled to him in the nets, so I understand how he approaches spinners. I was prepared for that and tried to bowl outside off, because I knew he would look to play big shots against me, said Jadeja in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He further felt chasing 128 will demand hard work from RRs young batting line-up. You cant take anything for granted in cricket; no matter the target, you have to work hard, play your shots, and give your 100 percent. Article Source: IANS
Archer, Jadeja and Burger knock CSK over for 127
A revamped CSK had a tough start to their season with a batting failure in their first game
IPL 2026: Burger, Archer, Jadeja Pick Two Wickets Each As RR Bowl Out CSK For Just 127
Chennai Super Kings: Rajasthan Royals pacers Jofra Archer and Nandre Burger ripped through Chennai Super Kings top-order before Ravindra Jadeja made a double-strike, as the visitors were bundled out for just 127 in the IPL 2026 clash at the ACA Stadium on Monday. Missing the calming presence of MS Dhoni and Dewald Brevis, CSKs young batting unit faltered on a red-soil pitch offering early assistance to bowlers, thanks to some pre-match drizzle. Archer and Burger made the ball talk to pick two wickets each while Jadeja had two in the eighth over in a disciplined bowling performance for RR. Only Jamie Overton showed fight, counterattacking at number eight with a gritty 43 off 36 balls that lifted CSK from 84/8 to a total showing some semblance of respectability. But the total remained well below-par, leaving RR with a golden opportunity to start their campaign on a winning note under new full-time captain Riyan Parag. Archer began by swinging the ball both ways to trouble Sanju Samson and Ruturaj Gaikwad in the opening over. Nandre Burger then made the first breakthrough by knocking over Samson for 6 with a delivery that shaped away and crashed into the off-stump. Archer returned to remove Gaikwad in his second over - the CSK skipper backed away to access the off-side but missed a straight ball and was bowled for six. Burger intensified the collapse in the third over as Ayush Mhatre fell for a golden duck - gloving a bouncer to keeper Dhruv Jurel, as RR got the decision in their favour on review. Sarfaraz Khan came in as the impact substitute and began his resistance by pulling Burger for four and six in successive balls. After debutant Brijesh Sharma impressed by conceding only six runs in the fourth over, Sarfaraz kept counterattacking to keep the scoreboard ticking. Sandeep Sharma struck immediately in the final over of power-play as Matthew Short, who struggled to get going, chipped a slower ball straight to mid-wicket for two, as CSK closed the power-play at 41/4. Post that, CSK suffered two major blows - Sarfaraz attempted a sweep off ex-CSK stalwart Ravindra Jadeja, but missed it and was trapped lbw for 17, while Shivam Dube holed out to long-off. Sarfaraz Khan came in as the impact substitute and began his resistance by pulling Burger for four and six in successive balls. After debutant Brijesh Sharma impressed by conceding only six runs in the fourth over, Sarfaraz kept counterattacking to keep the scoreboard ticking. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Chennai Super Kings 127 in 19.4 overs (Jamie Overton 43, Kartik Sharma 18; Ravindra Jadeja 2-18, Jofra Archer 2-19) against Rajasthan Royals Article Source: IANS
Shreyas and Gill back in the T20 spotlight as PBKS take on GT
Both teams made the playoffs last season but their captains' fortunes in T20 cricket have fallen since then
IPL 2026: Weve To Start All Over Again, Says PBKS Coach Ponting Ahead Of Campaign Opener Against GT
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings (PBKS) are set to kick off their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 campaign against Gujarat Titans (GT) at their home ground, New International Stadium, New Chandigarh on Tuesday. Speaking about the campaign opener, head coach Ricky Ponting expressed confidence in a stronger, more evolved squad heading into the new season. Ponting emphasised that while last seasons top-of-the-table finish was encouraging, the team is approaching the new campaign with a fresh mindset. Its nice to reflect on what was a great season for the franchise, but that doesnt mean anything going into a new year. Its nil-nil now for everybody. Weve got to start that all over again, he said. The coach also pointed to improved squad depth and flexibility as a major strength this season, with multiple options available across roles. We've got the players that we want in certain roles, but we've also got a back-up player for most of those players right the way down to our 25th player. I just think overall, we should be stronger, the head coach said. He further added, I just think there's been natural growth in a lot of our players and if we can bring the best out of them over the next two months, starting tomorrow, there's no reason why our performances can't be better than last year. With the season opener set to be played on a surface expected to favour batting, Ponting acknowledged the importance of adapting quickly to conditions while finalising the playing XI. He said, We have got 25 players to pick from, with a nice balance of overseas players and Indian talent. First and foremost, we have to understand the conditions before we pick the team. It's just started raining now, so all the covers have gone down outside, so we haven't actually seen the playing surface for the last couple of days. So hopefully before the end of the session tonight, we can have a really good look at the wicket that we're going to use tomorrow, and then we can start thinking about different combinations and impact players and what we might want to do with our line-up, he further added. He said, We have got 25 players to pick from, with a nice balance of overseas players and Indian talent. First and foremost, we have to understand the conditions before we pick the team. It's just started raining now, so all the covers have gone down outside, so we haven't actually seen the playing surface for the last couple of days. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We need to start well tomorrow, we need to play well at our home ground, but I honestly feel that we've got a better squad than we had last year. Our younger players are more experienced now and the overseas players that we've brought in this year are better than the squad that we had last year. So overall, I'm really excited to get the season underway, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
IPL Ticket Row Resolved, MLAs To Get 3 Tickets: Shivakumar
DNA Entertainment Networks Managing Director: Deputy Chief Minister and Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President D. K. Shivakumar on Monday said that the issue of ticket allocation for Indian Premier League matches has been resolved amicably, with a revised quota for legislators and Members of Parliament. He made the statement after addressing the media following a meeting with members of the Karnataka State Cricket Association, Royal Challengers Bangalore, and DNA Event Management Company. Shivakumar said he had earlier held discussions with the Speaker and senior leaders on the matter. It has been decided that three tickets will be provided to Members of the Legislative Assembly and Members of Parliament for Indian Premier League matches, instead of the earlier four. For international matches, the Karnataka State Cricket Association will provide two complimentary tickets; additional tickets must be purchased. He explained, Two tickets will be given free, and if they want two more, they will have to purchase them. Representatives from Royal Challengers Bangalore, the DNA network, and Karnataka State Cricket Association management had met him regarding the issue. Karnataka State Cricket Association President and former Indian pacer Venkatesh Prasad was also present during the discussions. If anyone does not want tickets, they can submit a letter. Members of the Legislative Assembly make several demands, and not all can be fulfilled. The issue has now been settled, he said. Shivakumar noted that in states like Rajasthan, Mumbai, Delhi, and Kolkata, a significant percentage of tickets, over 50 to 60 per cent, are allocated to government officials and related categories. Compared to those places, there is less interference here, he said, adding that the matter has been closed. Regarding infrastructure, he said discussions were held to increase seating capacity at the Chinnaswamy Stadium. Authorities have been asked to submit a proposal to the government. If seating capacity can be increased by 20,000, it would be beneficial. Once the proposal comes, the government will examine it, he said. Responding to a query on a separate gallery for politicians, he said he did not wish to interfere. It was a small request. For Royal Challengers Bangalore matches, three tickets will be given, and for other matches, two tickets will be given. I will not interfere further, he said. He also said the government has allocated land for sports infrastructure, including 25 acres near Golden Spa, 25 acres in Tumakuru, and land in Mysuru. In Bengaluru, two to three locations have been identified for developing a new stadium that can host multiple sports, not just cricket. On by-elections, Shivakumar said he will campaign in Davanagere on Tuesday, while Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has already campaigned in Bagalkot. I will visit Bagalkot the following day, return to Davanagere, and then go back to Bagalkot, he said. He also said he will travel to Kerala on April 5 and 6. He announced that he, along with All India Congress Committee General Secretary Randeep Singh Surjewala, will address a press conference at the Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee office regarding the cooking gas crisis. Speaking about Assam, Shivakumar said the Congress party stands by its promises. We have announced guarantees in Assam and delivered speeches there. The Congress always keeps its word, unlike those who promised Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts and Acche Din, he said. He added that he has visited Assam multiple times and recently tried local cuisine at a hotel, describing it as tasty. We have announced guarantees in Assam and delivered speeches there. The Congress always keeps its word, unlike those who promised Rs 15 lakh in bank accounts and Acche Din, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Expressing confidence about the partys prospects in Assam, he said, While Amit Shah claims they will secure a two-thirds majority, I say they will get one-third, and we will secure a two-thirds majority. Article Source: IANS
RR choose to bowl; CSK hand debut to Kartik Sharma
Bengal seamer Brijesh Jha made his debut for Rajasthan Royals, who have just three overseas players in their bowl-first XI
IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals Has Got A Lot Of Depth This Year, Says Jofra Archer
Chennai Super Kings: Rajasthan Royals (RR) fast bowler Jofra Archer said the franchise has built a squad with enough depth to reach the playoffs this season, adding that he was determined to stay fit and play for the entirety of IPL 2026. RR, the IPL 2008 champions, finished at ninth place last year and have a new captain in Riyan Parag, after Sanju Samson was traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Ravindra Jadeja, in turn, joined the franchise. The side also brought back Kumar Sangakkara as head coach after Rahul Dravid left the side. The strengths, this team has got a lot of depth this year. I think just before the season ended last year, we filled the remaining overseas slots as well. We had a really good draft. Also, I'm really, really proud of the team that they've built, and there's no reason why we shouldn't at least get to the playoffs this year, said Archer in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. RR, the IPL 2008 champions, finished at ninth place last year and have a new captain in Riyan Parag, after Sanju Samson was traded to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Ravindra Jadeja, in turn, joined the franchise. The side also brought back Kumar Sangakkara as head coach after Rahul Dravid left the side. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If you bowl your spell and you're trying to save runs, it's not gonna work because every team's got really good batters and then with the impact rule now as well, you've got an extra one coming, so I think you've just got to get wickets. Just keep taking wickets. Looking forward to it (on bowling to Samson). Article Source: IANS
West Indies Fined 10 Per Cent Match Fee For Slow Over-rate In First ODI Against Australia
Emirates ICC International Panel: West Indies have been fined 10 per cent match fee for maintain a slow over-rate during their first womens ODI against Australia, held on Friday. Captain Hayley Matthews pled guilty to the offence and accepted the sanction, with the ICC saying there was no need for a formal hearing. The sanction was imposed by Reon King of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees after the hosts were ruled out to be two overs short of the target, with time allowances taken into consideration. On-field umpires Lauren Agenbag and Candace La Borde, third umpire Jacquline Williams and fourth umpire Maria Abbott leveled the charge, said the ICC in its statement on Monday. The first game saw Australia emerge victorious over the West Indies by 103 runs, courtesy of a strong all-round display by the visitors. Australia currently hold an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series after beating the West Indies by 90 runs on Sunday. On-field umpires Lauren Agenbag and Candace La Borde, third umpire Jacquline Williams and fourth umpire Maria Abbott leveled the charge, said the ICC in its statement on Monday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies began brightly in pursuit of 270, with Hayley (45) and Qiana Joseph (29) leading the reply. But once Hayley fell, the chase collapsed for the West Indies as Australias spinners tightened the screws as the hosts were bowled out for 179 in 46 overs. Georgia and Ashleigh Gardner took three wickets each while Alana King had one scalp against her name. Article Source: IANS
PBKS vs GT Match 4, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
PBKS vs GT Match 4, Cricket Tips :Punjab Kings reached very close to winning their maiden IPL title but lost the final to RCB. But Shreyas Iyer and co. will enter the IPL 2026 with hope of making it big. They will face Gujarat Titans in their opening encounter. This contest will take place at Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh, on Tuesday at 7:30 PM IST. These are two powerful batting units that are capable of scoring 200 or more easily. That is where fans expect a high-scoring thriller. Shubman Gill, who was not part of the T20 World Cup 2026, has a point to prove. So, we will expect an exciting game on Tuesday between two heavyweights. PBKS vs GT: Match Details Date: March 31, 2026 (Tuesday) Time: 7:30 PM IST Venue: Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, Mullanpur, New Chandigarh PBKS vs GT Live Streaming Details The live action of the PBKS vs GT game will be available on the Star Sports networks. Fans can also enjoy the action through the Jio Hotstar streaming platform in India. PBKS vs GT Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 6 PBKS : 03 GT : 03 No-Result : 00 PBKS vs GT: Ground Pitch Report Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Stadium is a new stadium and hasn't hosted many games. But in the IPL, it has hosted a handful of matches, and all have been high-scoring ones. The average score here is 170+, and teams have chased down big totals here as well. Hence, batters will like their time here. PBKS vs GT Possible XIs PBKS: Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Priyansh Arya, Shreyas Iyer , Marcus Stoinis, Shashank Singh, Nehal Wadhera, Azmatullah Omarzai, Cooper Connolly, Marco Jansen, Arshdeep Singh, Yuzi Chahal GT : Shubman Gill , Sai Sudharsan, Glenn Phillips, Jos Buttler (wk), Washington Sundar, Jason Holder, Shahrukh Khan, Rahul Tewatia, Rashid Khan, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna PBKS vs GT: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shreyas Iyer has been a consistent performer, and his confidence with the bat makes him a tough batter to bowl to. For GT, captain Shubman Gill will be key, because he is in good form. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep Singh is coming off a successful T20 World Cup campaign and was pretty good. He will be the bowler to watch out for. For GT, Rashid Khan has always been the game-changer with the ball. Today Match Prediction : Both teams have several match-winners, and it will be a tight contest. But PBKS look more settled with a strong batting middle order. Hence, we predict PBKS to win this game. PBKS vs GT Match 4, IPL 2026, Today PBKS vs GT Match, PBKS vs GT Prediction, PBKS vs GT Predicted XIs, Injury Update for PBKS vs GT 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.
Hampshire bring in Yusuf as Seales replacement
South Africa quick signed at short notice for opening block of Championship fixtures
IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch PBKS Vs GT, Know All Details
New International Cricket Stadium: Indias white-ball mainstays Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer will headline a high-profile IPL 2026 opener in Chandigarh on Tuesday, leading the Gujarat Titans and the Punjab Kings, respectively, with both captains carrying added motivation to prove their credentials in the shortest format. For Gill, Indias Test and ODI skipper, the season presents a crucial opportunity to reassert his place in T20 cricket. Despite being named T20I vice-captain at one stage, a dip in form saw him miss out on the T20 World Cup squad, a tournament India eventually went on to win. As a result, the spotlight will firmly be on how he adapts his game to the evolving demands of T20 batting. While Gill has been among the most consistent performers in the IPL, second only to Virat Kohli in run-scoring since 2023, questions around his scoring tempo remain. Encouragingly for Gujarat, he showed a shift in approach last season, significantly improving his strike rate to over 155, hinting at a more aggressive intent that will be closely monitored this year. The addition of Matthew Hayden to the coaching setup as the batting coach could further shape that evolution, particularly in power-hitting and boundary conversion at the top of the order. Gills leadership, too, has come into sharper focus since the departure of Hardik Pandya after the 2023 season. Having taken over the reins, he has gradually established himself as the central figure in the Titans setup, both tactically and with the bat. Since their title-winning debut in 2022, the Gujarat Titans have built a reputation for consistency, reaching the playoffs regularly. They enter the new season with a settled core, having retained the bulk of their squad, and will once again rely heavily on their strong top order. The opening combination of Gill and Sai Sudharsan remains a key pillar. Sudharsan, last seasons leading run-getter with 759 runs, returns after recovering from a rib injury. His recent domestic form, including a century and multiple half-centuries, suggests he could pick up where he left off. Beyond the top order, Gujarat also have depth in reserve. Young wicketkeeper-batter Kumar Kushagra has emerged as a promising option, boasting impressive numbers in domestic T20 cricket with a strike rate above 160. His presence offers flexibility, particularly if the middle order comes under pressure. With both Gill and Iyer keen to make a statement, the season opener sets up as more than just a curtain-raiser; it is an early test of leadership, adaptability, and intent in a format where both captains still have something to prove. When: Tuesday, March 31, 7:30 PM IST Where: New International Cricket Stadium, New Chandigarh Where to watch: The PBKS vs GT match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The PBKS vs GT match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gujarat Titans: Shubman Gill (c), Jos Buttler (wicketkeeper), Kumar Kushagra, Glenn Phillips, Rashid Khan, Manav Suthar, Nishant Sindhu, Washington Sundar, Mohammed Siraj, Prasidh Krishna, Kagiso Rabada, Ravisrinivasan Sai Kishore, Jayant Yadav, Ishant Sharma, Ashok Sharma, Jason Holder, Tom Banton, Luke Wood, Sai Sudharsan, Rahul Tewatia, Arshad Khan, Anuj Rawat, Kulwant Khejroliya, Gurnoor Brar, M Shahrukh Khan Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: This Season, The Goal Is To Win The Trophy For The Team, Says Sooryavanshi
U19 World Cup: Rajasthan Royals (RR) teenaged opener Vaibhav Sooryavanshi says his focus this season is firmly on helping the team lift the IPL trophy, something which has eluded the team since winning the inaugural season in 2008. In IPL 2025, Sooryavanshi struck a 35-ball century while amassing 252 runs in seven games for RR. Now, he enters IPL 2026 on the back of being Player of the Final and Player of the Tournament in Indias U19 World Cup triumph this year. When I was picked, my only goal was to give the team a good start. I wanted to play my game in the Powerplay, and if I got a good start, I wanted to continue and play long without giving my wicket away. I knew that if I played my shots, the scenario of the game would change, because chasing 200-plus runs would not be easy for any team. This season, the goal is to win the trophy for the team. My performances and the team's performances will automatically get highlighted if we win the trophy, and that is the most important thing, said Sooryavanshi to JioStar. He also recalled the influence of his childhood heroes Brian Lara and Yuvraj Singh, while going from Bihar set-up to higher level of cricket. I saw both, Brian Lara and Yuvraj Singh, finish matches single-handedly. If they were in, there was no chance for the opponent to come back into the game, and that was something I really liked about them. I made a lot of runs in domestic cricket for Bihar, in league games and probables. Sir then picked me for the Vinoo Mankad Trophy, the BCCIs U-19 tournament. I played that, followed by the Challengers Trophy. In 2023, there was a quadrangular series, with two teams from India, along with Bangladesh and England. I made my debut there. From there, I gradually progressed and made my Ranji Trophy debut. Since my domestic debut, Rajasthan Royals had started enquiring about me. They were watching me in domestic matches as well as India U-19 games, and their scouting team had their eye on me for a long time, he said. His childhood coach Manish Ojha recalled the early signs of talent and appetite for batting long hours. In 2018, he came to the academy with his father for the first time. From the start, it was clear he had potential and a real passion for cricket. He always liked to attack while batting and had beautiful timing. In every session, he would play 400-500 balls and wouldnt stop unless I gave him a break. In 2022, during the open net sessions, he was given a 40-over slot to bat, 20 overs from new-ball bowlers and then spinners. I noticed he preferred to play only big, lofted shots. I told him that as he progresses to U-16 and U-19 cricket for his state, hell have to face hundreds of deliveries and play long, because it starts with four-day cricket there. If you go for a big shot on every ball and ignore singles or doubles, you increase your chances of getting out. But he would say, Sir, if I can hit a six on that ball, why take a single? In every session, he would play 400-500 balls and wouldnt stop unless I gave him a break. In 2022, during the open net sessions, he was given a 40-over slot to bat, 20 overs from new-ball bowlers and then spinners. I noticed he preferred to play only big, lofted shots. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After that, he was told that he was playing more shots square of the wicket and was asked to play more on the off-side, and he responded by hitting big shots there as well. In another trial, he was given a target of scoring 24 runs in one over, which he achieved in five balls. Article Source: IANS
'The culprit here is me, not Shaheen' - Raza on PSL security breach
Afridi went down on my request, because it was my close family and friends; I didn't want to meet them in the business centre, Sikandar Raza says
Swanepoel's Worcestershire NOC in doubt after leaving Lions in lurch
Allrounder walked off with eight overs of one-day cup final to play in order to catch flight to UK
'Wore Many Jerseys Over The Last 28 Years': Alyssa Healy Pens Emotional Note Post Retirement
Alyssa Healy: Australia's iconic wicketkeeper-batter Alyssa Healy, who announced her retirement from professional cricket earlier this month after playing her last match against India, reflected on a career spanning nearly three decades. In an emotional note, Healy thanked her family, teammates, coaches, sponsors, and fans for their support throughout her journey. Well thats officially a wrap on this chapter of my life Had the chance to wear many jerseys over the last 28 years and have thoroughly enjoyed every minute! A very large THANK YOU to My family and friends for their continued support, patience/understanding with everything and the sacrifices along the way, she wrote on Instagram. Healy highlighted the role of her teammates in creating unforgettable moments on and off the field, saying, My teammates. You guys were the best. Thanks for helping create memories and stories that I can tell/maybe not tell for years to come! She also reflected on the influence of her coaches, particularly noting the impact they had on both her professional and personal growth. My coaches, you've all had a great impact along my journey. Helped me grow and learn as a player and a person. Big shout out to @squirel360 for being my constant hitting pal throughout. Acknowledging the broader ecosystem around womens cricket, Healy expressed gratitude to the organisations and sponsors that supported the game over the years. The Organisations. Thanks for your continued support of the womens game. I cant wait to watch it continue to grow and flourish with investment and opportunities continuing to rise. The Sponsors. Not just mine personally but for those who invested when others wouldnt. You guys rock. Thanks for helping grow and support our game! Ive appreciated your continued support right throughout my journey. Finally, Healy paid tribute to the fans, noting how their unwavering support enriched her career. The Organisations. Thanks for your continued support of the womens game. I cant wait to watch it continue to grow and flourish with investment and opportunities continuing to rise. The Sponsors. Not just mine personally but for those who invested when others wouldnt. You guys rock. Thanks for helping grow and support our game! Ive appreciated your continued support right throughout my journey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Healy signed off on a high as she led her side to a 3-0 ODI series win against the reigning world champions and also guided the Aussies to a victory in the pink-ball one-off Test. Article Source: IANS
Rohits 2.0 Avatar Will Worry All IPL Teams: Kumble
Kolkata Knight Riders: Former India spinner Anil Kumble lauded Rohit Sharma's batting show against Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR), where he scored the fastest fifty in IPL history, saying the opener arrived this season in his 2.0 avatar, which will be a sign of worry for other franchises in the league. Mumbai Indians ended a 13-season jinx by winning their first opening match with a clinical six-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. Rohit played a brilliant knock of 78 off 38. He reached his fifty-run mark off 23 balls. This is his fastest half-century in IPL so far. His previous fastest was off 25 balls, which came against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2015 final at Eden Gardens. Rohit Sharma seems to have arrived in his 2.0 avatar, and his innings showed he is ready to dominate again. The way he hit the ball all around the ground reminded me of his prime. It is not easy to hit sixes against bowlers like Varun Chakaravarthy, Sunil Narine and Blessing Muzarabani, but he made it look easy, Kumble said on JioStar. Mumbai Indians ended a 13-season jinx by winning their first opening match with a clinical six-wicket victory over Kolkata Knight Riders. Rohit played a brilliant knock of 78 off 38. He reached his fifty-run mark off 23 balls. This is his fastest half-century in IPL so far. His previous fastest was off 25 balls, which came against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2015 final at Eden Gardens. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He has worked a lot on his fitness, and when you come back after a short break, it takes five to seven days to get your timing back and find your rhythm. This was a fantastic innings, very similar to what we have seen at Wankhede where he takes on the bowlers from the first ball. The six-hitting looked easy, and even though the boundaries were small, those shots were going into the stands. This knock shows that Rohit means business and this version of him will worry all IPL teams, he added. Article Source: IANS
CSK Players Don't Roam As 5-time Champions; Happy To Be A Part Of That Culture: Samson
Chennai Super Kings: Sanju Samson is stepping into unfamiliar territory this IPL season, but the transition to the Chennai Super Kings already appears to have settled him. On the eve of their 2026 campaign opener against his former side, the Rajasthan Royals, Samson offered an unfiltered glimpse into his early days with the five-time champions, touching on culture, transition, and what lies ahead. Feels really good, feels really excited to be a part of a champion franchise. Lots to learn, lots to observe, and really excited, really very calm. I think this is something which I relate to very much. I think I am a very chilled-out person, very calm, but when it comes to business, I think we give our everything, he said in a video shared by the franchise. For Samson, the appeal lies not in the weight of CSKs legacy but in how lightly it is worn. Despite the franchises success, he pointed to a dressing room environment that mirrors his own temperament: calm, composed, and quietly focused. I can see in the dressing room people are calm, people are chilled out. They don't roam around as 5-time IPL champions. I think they don't roam around as the greatest cricketers the world has ever seen. But that's what I really like to be a part of, and I am very happy that I am part of that kind of culture. And still early days, still looking forward to a lot of exciting things, he said. He also hinted at a broader transition underway within the squad, suggesting that the current phase is part of a carefully thought-out rebuild, as he said, I think I would like to call it 'very well planned', actually. So yeah, very excited to play RR, looking forward to it. The immediate test, however, comes against familiar opposition. Facing Rajasthan Royals straight away adds an emotional subplot, and Samson expects the crowd dynamic, particularly in Guwahati, to once again tilt heavily in CSKs favour. I think last time when we played RR vs CSK in Guwahati, it didn't feel like an RR home game. It was yellow all over the stadium. So that's what we can expect again this time. And also, I think the passion of the crowds I think they bring up a lot of energy. I think very passionate crowds in Guwahati are what I expect. And I think hopefully the wicket also plays well and we get a good game of cricket, he mentioned. Beyond the occasion, Samson shed light on the squad composition, emphasising the influx of young, attacking talent brought in through the auction, stating, Our management and all the staff, including Stephen and a lot of people, have done really great work for the auction. We have picked up some really exciting talents from the auction. CSK is definitely in a building phase, and that's what our recruitment has also been. So the number, definitely, the age is definitely much less. But in the amount of sixes these guys are hitting, they don't actually look like youngsters anymore. So I think that's what the character of the mindset is; it's required in this format and in this hype. Just be free and go out there and express yourself with a lot of fearlessness. I think that's what youngsters bring in, and we all are very excited to play with them. While CSKs identity has long been associated with experience, Samsons remarks point toward a shift, one that blends youth with an aggressive, fearless approach suited to the modern T20 game. Yet, as much as the cricketing aspects matter, Samson framed the IPL as something larger, particularly for CSKs expansive fanbase. CSK is definitely in a building phase, and that's what our recruitment has also been. So the number, definitely, the age is definitely much less. But in the amount of sixes these guys are hitting, they don't actually look like youngsters anymore. So I think that's what the character of the mindset is; it's required in this format and in this hype. Just be free and go out there and express yourself with a lot of fearlessness. I think that's what youngsters bring in, and we all are very excited to play with them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK are set to face RR on Monday in the third match of the tournament in Guwahati. Article Source: IANS
As Mumbai Indians: As Mumbai Indians have finally shed one of the IPLs most curious streaks, head coach Mahela Jayawardene revealed that the long-standing hoodoo had remained a recurring theme within the dressing room, making its end as much a mental breakthrough as a statistical one. A six-wicket win over Kolkata Knight Riders on Sunday marked MI's first opening-game victory since 2012. Since their last opening-game win in 2012 against Chennai Super Kings, MI went on to build one of the most dominant franchises in IPL history, collecting five titles along the way. Not winning the first match of a new IPL season after 2012 was something that we always talk about in the dressing room. We got close to winning in each of the opening matches in the last 13 seasons but we never managed to successfully get over the line, Jayawardene told JioStar. I think this win over KKR was a great execution. I got a bit nervous when KKR got to a score of 220, but the wicket was pretty decent to bat on and Rohit-Rickeltons fearless batting ensured that we didnt suffer any hiccups. Im very happy with the win and delighted to break the streak of losing our first match in a new IPL season, he added. The chase was anchored by an aggressive approach at the top, with Rohit Sharma leading the charge alongside Ryan Rickelton, as Mumbai refused to let the required rate spiral. Their intent effectively neutralised what could have been scoreboard pressure, turning a potentially tricky pursuit into a statement of authority. I think this win over KKR was a great execution. I got a bit nervous when KKR got to a score of 220, but the wicket was pretty decent to bat on and Rohit-Rickeltons fearless batting ensured that we didnt suffer any hiccups. Im very happy with the win and delighted to break the streak of losing our first match in a new IPL season, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The way Rohit-Ryan handled the opposition bowling attack,it was good to see on a tactical point. It was a great partnership and long may it continue. If you look at last season, Rohit-Rickelton did well for us at the top of the order and they were solid. The way they complimented each other was great. Article Source: IANS
Harris feels McAndrew should be in Test frame
Former Test quick Ryan Harris believes South Australia's Shield final star Nathan McAndrew should already have a baggy green
2nd WODI: Mooney, Spinners Guide Australia To 90-run Win Over WI, Takes 2-0 Series Lead
Openers Qiana Joseph: knock and the spinners domination helped Australia Women extend their hold over the West Indies with a commanding 90-run victory in the second ODI, securing the three-match series with an unassailable 2-0 lead. After being put to bat, Australias innings found stability through Mooney, who marked her return with a composed 65 off 104 deliveries. The left-hander anchored the innings at a time when wickets fell intermittently, ensuring the visitors had a platform to build on. Contributions from Phoebe Litchfield (46) and Georgia Wareham (39) added substance, but a mid-innings slowdown saw Australia slip to 140 for 5. The recovery, however, was swift and decisive. Nicola Carey (30*) Alana King (26*) stitched together an unbroken 55-run stand that lifted Australia to a competitive 269 for 7. Windies skipper Hayley Matthews was the pick of the bowlers, claiming three wickets. Chasing 270, West Indies showed early intent. Openers Qiana Joseph (29) and Matthews (45) put together a promising stand, hinting at a more resolute approach than in the series opener. But once the partnership was broken, the innings unravelled rapidly. The game shifted dramatically with a burst of wickets. Matthews fall led to a collapse, as Stafanie Taylor and Deandra Dottin were dismissed in quick order. What was once a stable 94/2 became a dire situation for the hosts as Australias spin bowlers intensified their pressure. Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, and King operated precisely through the middle overs, varying their pace and taking just enough wickets to induce errors. Wareham was especially effective, claiming three wickets, while Gardner matched that total with vital strikes that prevented any chance of recovery. Attempts to counterattack proved fleeting. Chinelle Henry briefly threatened with a brisk cameo that included a towering six, but her dismissal epitomised the lack of sustained resistance. A mix-up led to the run-out of Shemaine Campbelle, further worsening the slide, while lower-order wickets fell in a cluster of soft dismissals. Despite Afy Fletcher scoring an unbeaten 32, the West Indies' target stayed out of reach as they were dismissed for 179 in 46 overs. Attempts to counterattack proved fleeting. Chinelle Henry briefly threatened with a brisk cameo that included a towering six, but her dismissal epitomised the lack of sustained resistance. A mix-up led to the run-out of Shemaine Campbelle, further worsening the slide, while lower-order wickets fell in a cluster of soft dismissals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Australia 269/7 in 50 overs (Beth Mooney 65, Phoebe Litchfield 46; Hayley Matthews 3-40, Afy Fletcher 2-44) beat West Indies 179 all out in 46 overs (Hayley Matthews 45, Afy Fletcher 32; Georgia Wareham 3-29, Ashleigh Gardner 3-34) by 90 runs. Article Source: IANS
PSL: Ball-tampering Scandal Rocks Lahore-Karachi Clash; Shaheen Fumbles For Answers
Pakistan Super League: In another controversial turn of events, the Pakistan Super League (2026) match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings was rocked by a ball-tampering scandal. Lahore skipper Shaheen Shah Afridi appeared to struggle for answers when questioned about the incident during the post-match presentation ceremony. The incident took place at the start of the last over of the Kings chase when on-field umpire Faisal Afridi took the ball from Haris Rauf for inspection after it had exchanged hands between Shaheen Shah Afridi and Fakhar. Faisal indulged in a lengthy discussion with Sharfuddoula, the other on-field umpire, and the two decided to bring in a replacement ball, deeming it to have been tampered with. During the post-match presentation, Pakistan great Ramiz Raja questioned Afridi about the events leading up to the final over. The Lahore skipper looked visibly unsettled and struggled to provide a clear explanation. I don't know about this, and we'll see if it's there in the camera and discuss what it is. Actually, five runs taken and we can't do anything, Shaheen said at the post-match presentation. Ramiz, however, continued to probe Shaheen on the ball-tampering allegations. You have to ask the umpires why they changed the ball. When we asked them why they changed the ball, they told us to go away. When they were making the decision, the umpires requested us, even the captain, to return to our fielding positions, he explained. To this, Afridi replied, I can only speak about myself. There was never any attempt on my part to change the condition of the ball, or even to try. All I remember is that when I was trying to dry the ball and make it shine, the umpires asked us not to dry it under the shirt. Who they are accusing, unless we don't see the proof, I think it's a big decision. I have not been called for an enquiry. Ramiz, however, continued to probe Shaheen on the ball-tampering allegations. You have to ask the umpires why they changed the ball. When we asked them why they changed the ball, they told us to go away. When they were making the decision, the umpires requested us, even the captain, to return to our fielding positions, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score PCB further said that Fakhar Zaman has been charged with a level-III offence, which carries a minimum ban of one match and a maximum of two for a first violation in a PSL season. Match referee Roshan Mahanama will conduct a hearing in the next two days and Fakhar will contest the charge. Article Source: IANS
PSL ball-tampering: Fakhar Zaman could be banned for one or two matches
Lahore Qalandars were penalised five runs in their game against Karachi Kings, and Fakhar Zaman now faces a hearing with match referee Roshan Mahanama
Mooney and Australia's spinners stand out as Australia go 2-0 up
Georgia Wareham put in another impressive all-round display to take her second player-of-the-match award for the series
McAndrew, Scott, Thornton bowl South Australia to stunning Shield title
Quicks take three wickets each as Victoria lose 7 for 37 to fall 56 runs short chasing 196
Rahane says Green not bowling disrupts KKR's 'balance with the ball'
KKR captain feels Green's unavailability is a challenge but framed it as an opportunity for other bowlers
Penalty costly for Qalandars as Kings win low-scoring thriller
Shaheen's efforts on a two-paced pitch went in vain as Waseem and Co took Kings home
Hardik wants Shardul to be at MI 'for the rest of your career'
After hopping across six franchises, Shardul returned home with a match-winning three-for
IPL 2026: 'Lord' Shardul Happy To Finally Play For MI, Shine On Home Ground
Kolkata Knight Riders: Shardul Thakur, who was a net bowler for the Mumbai Indians in their early years, celebrated his first match for the franchise with a three-wicket haul that helped them beat the Kolkata Knight Riders by six wickets at the Wankhede Stadium. Thakur has played for the Kings XI Punjab, Rising Pune Supergiants, Delhi Capitals, Kolkata Knight Riders, Chennai Suoer Kings and Lucknow Super Giants in the IPL before being brought to his home town franchise after a swap deal with LSG. On Sunday, he justified that faith by claiming 3-39 that halted a rampaging KKR innings and helped MI restrict them to 220/4 in 20 overs. Rohit Sharma (78) and Ryan Rickelton (81) struck blazing half-centuries to help the Mumbai Indians romp to a six-wicket win against KKR in Match 2 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, ending their embarrassing streak of not winning their opening match in 13 seasons. Thakur, who was named Player of the Match for his effort, said he likes to take up challenges, and Sunday presented such a situation. I've said this before, I like challenges. This was a challenging situation, especially in the sixth over. Because you expect Boult or Bumrah to get early wickets, but that didn't happen. So it was challenging coming in and bowling that sixth over. Challenges are what have made me. This ground has given me both bitter and sweet memories, said Thakur in the post-match presentation. He said that playing for the Mumbai Indians is special for him as it allows him to play at his home ground. To come and play for MI is special. To come and play on my home ground. I was a net bowler and an upcoming boy in the early years, quietly making my mark. Since then, it was always going to happen, and it's finally happened. So it feels special. I'll be very happy if I stay here [for my career]. It's my home city. The kind of backing I have got here is amazing. To trade me from LSG and play me in my first game, he said. He said that playing for the Mumbai Indians is special for him as it allows him to play at his home ground. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I like them because people give that name with love. So it's not really a 'meme' meme. Just a way for people to show love, he added. Article Source: IANS
Rickelton, Rohit, Shardul break Mumbai's first-game jinx
MI win their first game of an IPL season for the first time since 2012
Lahore Qalandars penalised for ball tampering
Shaheen was left fuming by the decision but did not comment on it at the presentation
Kolkata Knight Riders: Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton blazed to half-centuries after Shardul Thakur claimed 3-39 in his first match for the franchise as Mumbai Indians defeated Kolkata Knight Riders to win their season-opener after 13 years in the Indian Premier League on Sunday. After pacer Shardul Thakur claimed a wicket each in his first three overs to apply the brakes on rampaging KKR, who went on to post 220/4 with skipper Ajinkya Rahane (67) and Angkrish Raghuvanshi (51) scoring half-centuries, Rohit Sharma struck a majestic 78 off 38 balls, and Rickelton blasted 81 off 43 balls as the Mumbai Indians reached won by six wickets in Match 2 of IPL 2026. Chasing 221, the Mumbai Indians rode on a brilliant opening partnership between Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton to cruise to 224/4 in 19.1 overs to secure their first victory in a season-opener since 2012, at the Wankhede Stadium. It was vintage Rohit Sharma as the former captain turned back the clock with a sensational innings, just when everyone was thinking till when he would continue to play in T20 after quitting it at the international stage. Rohit Sharma hammered a 23-ball fifty, his fastest in IPL, hitting three fours and five sixes as he gave the team a brilliant start. He also became the fourth batter to score a half-century of 50-plus scores in IPL. This was Rohit's 50th half-century in 268 IPL matches, joining the club led by Virat Kohli (73, 261 matches), David Warner (66 in 184) and Shikhar Dhawan (53 in 221). Rickelton raced to his fifty off 24 balls, hitting two fours and six maximums as he matched Rohit shot for shot. Rohit, who hammered six fours and as many sixes in a majestic knock that took the stuffing out of the KKR bowling, got out while trying to slog Vaibhav Arora in the 12th over, but managed to top-edge it, and Anukul Roy hung on to a superb catch, running back from mid-on and had to put in a full-length dive to hold on to that. The 38-year-old and Rickelton smashed 148 runs for their opening wicket partnership off 72 balls, giving Mumbai a fabulous start. Though India's T20 World Cup-winning Suryakumar Yadav did not contribute much, coming in as an Impact Substitute for his teammate Jasprit Bumrah. Surya struck three fours in his eight-ball 16. Rickelton continued to torment KKR as he hit two fours and two more sixes before getting out for 81 off 43 balls, before he was run out to a direct hit by Anukul Roy, blocked by Muzarabani as he tried to get to the non-striker end after Tilak Varma refused a call for second. Mumbai were 184/3 in the 16th over and firmly on the road to victory. Though Tilak Varma was out for 20 trying to seal victory with a big one, skipper Hardik Pandya (18 not out) helped them cross the line with a four in the final over. Earlier, after a quiet first two overs, the KKR opening pair of Rahane, on his home ground, and Finn Allen exploded into action as they hammered 54 runs in 18 balls as the team raced to their first fifty against the Mumbai Indians, reaching the mark in 23 balls. The carnage started when Hardik Pandya introduced Afghan mystery spinner AM Ghazanfar, and the bowler was smashed for 17 runs in his first over, with Allen walloping him for two sixes and a four. Things got worse in the next over as Rahane hammered back-to-back sixes off Pandya in the first two balls of the fourth over, while Allen struck the Mumbai Indian captain boundaries off successive balls to end it as KKR blasted 26 runs from the over, racing to fifty in just 23 balls. Shardul Thakur, making his debut for MI in his home town, made the breakthrough in the sixth over, getting Allen (37, 17b, 6x4, 2x6) caught at long-on with a slower delivery as KKR ended the Power-play at 78/1. Allen and Rahane raised 69 runs for the opening wicket, laying the foundation for a big total. Cameron Green's first innings as the costliest overseas player ever in IPL history lasted only 10 balls and fetched 18 runs as Thakur took the pace off a delivery that bounced a bit, and Green's slap-shot went down the throat of Sherfane Rutherford at deep cover. Rahane and Green added 40 runs for the second wicket. Rahane continued the good work from the other end as he cruised to his fifty in 27 balls, hitting three boundaries and four maximums. The fall of two wickets slowed down Rahane as he tried to build another partnership with Angkrish Raghuvanshi, but that did not materialise as the skipper was next to fall. Thakur picked up his third wicket of the night as Rahane went inside-out on a cross-seam full delivery outside off and toe-ended it to Pandya at cover, back-tracking to take a simple catch. KKR lost momentum after that, but Raghuvanshi pulled them back again by hitting Ghazanfar for a four, dropped by Rohit Sharma near the long-on boundary rope, and six straight down in the next ball to add more insult to injury. He struck Thakur for a six in the 17th over before Rinku Singh struck a four three balls later as they raised 50 runs for the fourth wicket partnership. Raghuvanshi reached his fifty off 28 balls, hitting six fours and two sixes before slicing Pandya in the air to Tilak Varma as KKR crossed the 200-run mark. KKR lost momentum after that, but Raghuvanshi pulled them back again by hitting Ghazanfar for a four, dropped by Rohit Sharma near the long-on boundary rope, and six straight down in the next ball to add more insult to injury. He struck Thakur for a six in the 17th over before Rinku Singh struck a four three balls later as they raised 50 runs for the fourth wicket partnership. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders 220/4 in 20 overs (Ajinkya Rahane 67, Angkrish Raghuvanshi 51, Finn Allen 37, Rinku Singh 33 not out; Shardul Thakur 3-39) lost to Mumbai Indians 224/4 in 19.1 overs (Ryan Rickelton 81, Rohit Sharma 78; Kartik Tyagi 1-43) by six wickets. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Rohit, Rickelton Fifties Help MI Beat KKR, End Season-opener Jinx
Kolkata Knight Riders: Rohit Sharma and Ryan Rickelton struck blazing half-centuries to help the Mumbai Indians romp to a six-wicket win against Kolkata Knight Riders in Match 2 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, ending their embarrassing streak of not winning their opening match in 13 seasons. After pacer Shardul Thakur had claimed 3-39 to halt a rampaging KKR with skipper Ajinkya Rahane (67) and Angkrish Raghuvanshi (51) scoring half-centuries, Rohit Sharma struck a majestic 78 off 38 balls, and Rickelton blasted 81 off 43 balls as the Mumbai Indians reached 224/4 in 19.1 overs to secure their first victory in a season-opener since 2012. It was vintage Rohit Sharma as the former captain turned back the clock with a sensational innings, just when everyone was thinking till when he would continue to play in T20 after quitting it at the international stage. Rohit Sharma hammered a 23-ball fifty, his fastest in IPL, hitting three fours and five sixes as he gave the team a brilliant start. He also became the fourth batter to score a half-century of 50-plus scores in IPL. This was Rohit's 50th half-century in 268 IPL matches, joining the club led by Virat Kohli (73, 261 matches), David Warner (66 in 184) and Shikhar Dhawan (53 in 221). After two steady overs in which Rohit scored 12 runs off eight balls, the former India captain launched into the KKR bowlers. Rohit first pulled Vaibhav Arora into the stands before his opening partner, Ryan Rickelton, deposited Arora for back-to-back sixes. Rohit's second six came when he backed away and scythed Blessings Muzarabani over deep backward point. The third came when Rohit backed away and scythed Muzarabani over deep backward point. He scored three more sixes, lofting Varun Chakravarthy over covers and then helping him over square-leg. Another six against Impact substitute Kartik Tyagi, hitting him for a six as the Mumbai Indians storm to 80 for no loss in the Power-play. At the other end, Rickelton raced to his fifty off 24 balls, hitting two fours and six maximums as he matched Rohit shot for shot. Rohit, who scored three fours and one six after reaching his fifty, was the first to get out, trying to slog Arora in the 12th over, but managing to top-edge it, and Anukul Roy hung on to a superb catch, running back from mid-on and had to put in a full-length dive to hold on to that. The 38-year-old scored a superb 78 off 38 balls, hitting six boundaries and as many maximums. Rohit and Rickelton smashed 148 runs for the opening wicket partnership off 72 balls, giving Mumbai a fabulous start. Though India's T20 World Cup-winning Suryakumar Yadav did not contribute much, coming in as an Impact Substitute for his teammate Jasprit Bumrah. Surya struck three fours in his eight-ball 16. Rickelton continued to torment KKR as he hit two fours and two more sixes before getting out for 81 off 43 balls, before he was run out to a direct hit by Anukul Roy, blocked by Muzarabani as he tried to get to the non-striker end after Tilak Varma refused a call for second. Mumbai were 184/3 in the 16th over and firmly on the road to victory. Though Tilak Varma was out for 20 trying to seal victory with a big one, skipper Hardik Pandya (18 not out) helped them cross the line with a four in the final over. KKR's efforts in the field were hampered a bit by the absence of skipper Rahane, who went off the field after suffering cramps. Though Tilak Varma was out for 20 trying to seal victory with a big one, skipper Hardik Pandya (18 not out) helped them cross the line with a four in the final over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders 220/4 in 20 overs (Ajinkya Rahane 67, Angkrish Raghuvanshi 51, Finn Allen 37, Rinku Singh 33 not out; Shardul Thakur 3-39) lost to Mumbai Indians 224/4 in 19.1 overs (Ryan Rickelton 81, Rohit Sharma 78; Kartik Tyagi 1-43) by six wickets. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Vintage Rohit Scores His Fastest Fifty In IPL History
Indian Premier League: Just when everyone was thinking till when he would continue, Mumbai Indians legend Rohit Sharma turned back the clock in his first match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, scoring his fastest fifty in the league, reaching the mark in 23 balls against the Kolkata Knight Riders at the Wankhede Stadium on Sunday. Former Mumbai Indians captain Rohit, who has won five IPL titles so far, scored his 50th fifty-plus score in the IPL, becoming the fourth batter to do so in the 19 editions of the league. This is his fastest half-century in IPL so far. His previous fastest was off 25 balls, which came against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the 2015 final at Eden Gardens. Rohit scored his fifty off 23 balls, hammering three boundaries and five maximums, going after the KKR bowling in typical Rohit Sharma style. He became the fourth batter to score a half-century of 50-plus scores in IPL history. This was Rohit's 50th half-century in 268 IPL matches, joining the club led by Virat Kohli (73, 261 matches), David Warner (66 in 184) and Shikhar Dhawan (53 in 221). Rohit scored his fifty off 23 balls, hammering three boundaries and five maximums, going after the KKR bowling in typical Rohit Sharma style. He became the fourth batter to score a half-century of 50-plus scores in IPL history. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Their third six came when Rohit backed away and scythed Blessings Muzarabani over deep backward point. Rohit Sharma scored three more sixes, lofting Varun Chakravarthy over covers and then helping him over square-leg. Another six against Impact substitute Kartik Tyagi, hitting him for a six as Mumbai Indians storm to 80 for no loss in the Power-play. Article Source: IANS
Revamped RR and CSK aim to put past failures behind
They finished at the bottom of the league in IPL 2025 and have a new look for the 2026 season
Rahane, Raghuvanshi fifties lift KKR to 220
Shardul Thakur impressed on his MI debut, taking 3 for 39
IPL 2026: Rahane, Raghuvanshi Fifties Power KKR To 220/4 Against MI
Skipper Ajinkya Rahane: Skipper Ajinkya Rahane and Angkrish Raghuvanshi scored half-centuries as Kolkata Knight Riders reached 220/4 in 20 overs in a start-stop-start innings against Mumbai Indians in their opening match of the Indian Premier League 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Sunday. Asked to bat first, Rahane provided the early impetus to the KKR innings with a 40-ball 67, while Raghuvanshi provided the late finish with a 28-ball 51 after the Mumbai Indians had fought back with a three-wicket burst by Shardul Thakur (3-39). Raghuvanshi and Rinku Singh (33* off 21 balls) shared a 60-run partnership for the fourth wicket that helped KKR recover from the mid-innings slump to reach what is being considered a par score. After a quiet first two overs, the KKR opening pair of Rahane, on his home ground, and Finn Allen exploded into action as they hammered 54 runs in 18 balls as the team raced to their first fifty against the Mumbai Indians, reaching the mark in 23 balls. The carnage started when Hardik Pandya introduced Afghan mystery spinner AM Ghazanfar, and the bowler was smashed for 17 runs in his first over, with Allen walloping him for two sixes and a four. Things got worse in the next over as Rahane hammered back-to-back sixes off Pandya in the first two balls of the fourth over, while Allen struck the Mumbai Indian captain boundaries off successive balls to end it as KKR blasted 26 runs from the over, racing to fifty in just 23 balls. Shardul Thakur, making his debut for MI in his home town, made the breakthrough in the sixth over, getting Allen (37, 17b, 6x4, 2x6) caught at long-on with a slower delivery as KKR ended the Power-play at 78/1. Allen and Rahane raised 69 runs for the opening wicket, laying the foundation for a big total. Cameron Green's first innings as the costliest overseas player ever in IPL history lasted only 10 balls and fetched 18 runs as Thakur took the pace off a delivery that bounced a bit, and Green's slap-shot went down the throat of Sherfane Rutherford at deep cover. Rahane and Green added 40 runs for the second wicket. Rahane continued the good work from the other end as he cruised to his fifty in 27 balls, hitting three boundaries and four maximums. The fall of two wickets slowed down Rahane as he tried to build another partnership with Angkrish Raghuvanshi, but that did not materialise as the skipper was next to fall. Thakur picked up his third wicket of the night as Rahane went inside-out on a cross-seam full delivery outside off and toe-ended it to Pandya at cover, back-tracking to take a simple catch. KKR lost momentum after that, but Raghuvanshi pulled them back again by hitting Ghazanfar for a four, dropped by Rohit Sharma near the long-on boundary rope, and six straight down in the next ball to add more insult to injury. He struck Thakur for a six in the 17th over before Rinku Singh struck a four three balls later as they raised 50 runs for the fourth wicket partnership. Raghuvanshi reached his fifty off 28 balls, hitting six fours and two sixes before slicing Pandya in the air to Tilak Varma as KKR crossed the 200-run mark. KKR lost momentum after that, but Raghuvanshi pulled them back again by hitting Ghazanfar for a four, dropped by Rohit Sharma near the long-on boundary rope, and six straight down in the next ball to add more insult to injury. He struck Thakur for a six in the 17th over before Rinku Singh struck a four three balls later as they raised 50 runs for the fourth wicket partnership. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kolkata Knight Riders 220/4 in 20 overs (Ajinkya Rahane 67, Angkrish Raghuvanshi 51, Finn Allen 37, Rinku Singh 33 not out; Shardul Thakur 3-39) against Mumbai Indians. Article Source: IANS
RR vs CSK Match 3, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
RR vs CSKMatch 3, Cricket Tips :Rajasthan Royals and Chennai Super Kings will be up against each other in the next game of the IPL 2026. These two teams will be in action on Monday at 7:30 PM IST at Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati. This is the first game for both sides this season. CSK will be without MS Dhoni and Dewald Brevis, who are injured. But Sanju Samson's inclusion will add much-needed experience for CSK at the top. On the other hand, Ravindra Jadeja's entry will provide great balance, as RR have missed a quality all-rounder for a long time now. There are plenty of superstars who will be in action; it will be a high-voltage contest. RR vs CSK: Match Details Date: March 30, 2026 (Monday) Time: 7:30 PM IST Venue: Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati RR vs CSK Live Streaming Details Indian fans can tune into the Star Sports Networks to watch the RR vs CSK contest on TV. Fans can also enjoy the game through the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. RR vs CSK Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 31 RR : 15 CSK : 16 No-Result : 00 RR vs CSK: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Guwahati is batting-friendly, and it is a high-scoring venue. It is an excellent wicket to bat on, and batters will get full value of their shots. The good bounce and pace make it hard for the bowlers to execute, because with a small error, batters can cash in. However, slower ones and cutters are the ideal balls to go with. RR vs CSK Possible XIs RR : Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Riyan Parag , Dasun Shanaka, Shimron Hetmyer, Ravindra Jadeja, Jofra Archer, Dhurv Jurel (wk), Sandeep Sharma, Tushar Deshpande, Ravi Bishnoi CSK : Sanju Samson (wk), Ruturaj Gaikwad , Ayush Mhatre, Urvil Patel, Matt Short, Shivam Dube, Jamie Overton, Rahul Chahar, Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, Matt Henry RR vs CSK: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Vaibhav Suryavanshi comes with a fearless approach, which makes him a dangerous batter at the top. For CSK, Sanju Samson is in excellent form, and he knows RR's bowling unit in and out. Probable Best Bowler Jofra Archer on his day can tear apart any batting unit. He will be the one to watch out for. For CSK, Noor Ahmad can be the game changer in the middle order. Today Match Prediction : Both teams have plenty of young players; that is where pressure-handling will be important. But the injuries have hurt CSK's combination, and we predict RR to win this game. RR vs CSK Match 3, IPL 2026, Today RR vs CSK Match, RR vs CSK Prediction, RR vs CSK Predicted XIs, Injury Update for RR vs CSK Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer: The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
IPL 2026: Brevis Ruled Out Of CSKs Opening Game Against RR Due To Side Strain
Chennai Super Kings: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) will be without South Africa batter Dewald Brevis for their IPL 2026 opening match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) after he suffered a side strain while training, confirmed head coach Stephen Fleming. CSK is hopeful he will be fit again soon, said Fleming in the pre-match press conference at the ACA Stadium on Sunday. Brevis absence compounds CSKs injury woes - fast bowler Nathan Ellis has already been ruled out of the season, while former captain MS Dhoni is expected to miss the first two weeks of the competition due to a calf strain. It is understood that Dhoni has not traveled with the team to Guwahati and has stayed back in Chennai instead to focus on his recovery. Left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson, named as Ellis replacement, is due to join the squad on April 21 as he continues his recovery from a back stress fracture issue. CSK endured a poor campaign in 2025, finishing at the bottom of the table with just four wins, and will be hoping for a turnaround in 2026. Brevis had impressed in his short stint last season after joining as a replacement player for Gurjapneet Singh, scoring 225 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 180, including 17 sixes. He was retained for this season and was widely tipped to play a key role in the middle order. It is understood that Dhoni has not traveled with the team to Guwahati and has stayed back in Chennai instead to focus on his recovery. Left-arm pacer Spencer Johnson, named as Ellis replacement, is due to join the squad on April 21 as he continues his recovery from a back stress fracture issue. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Captain Ruturaj Gaikwad has confirmed he will open alongside Sanju Samson, which means Sarfaraz Khan and Urvil Patel can be other middle-order options till Brevis is declared fit. Article Source: IANS
Dewald Brevis to miss CSK's opening game in IPL 2026
CSK are already without Nathan Ellis, who has been ruled out of the season, and Dhoni, who is likely to miss the first two weeks
Handscomb to miss 2026 season with Leicestershire for personal reasons
Australia batter prioritises family matters but will return as captain after signing one-year extension
