Bhuvneshwar To Lead A Strong Indian Side At Hong Kong Sixes 2026
Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground: Team India will bring a star-studded IPL contingent for the 2026 Hong Kong Sixes, with seven leading Indian cricketers set to take on the fast-paced six-a-side format from 30 October to 1 November. Leading Team India will be seasoned pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, alongside fellow IPL performers Krunal Pandya, Shashank Singh, Rahul Tewatia, Nitish Rana, Rahul Tripathi and T. Natarajan. The squad brings together a mix of international experience, explosive batting, all-round ability and specialist bowling to one of crickets fastest and most entertaining formats. Bhuvneshwar brings years of international and IPL experience and the ability to make an impact with the new ball, while Krunal provides the versatility of a proven all-rounder. Nitish adds aggressive stroke play and experience at the top of the order, while Shashank and Tewatia bring proven finishing ability. Tripathi adds attacking intent, with Natarajan providing a specialist left-arm pace option. Anuraag Bhatnagar, Director of Marketing and Commercial, Cricket Hong Kong, said, We are very grateful to the Indian cricket authorities for their support in helping us put together arguably one of the strongest sides that has represented India in the history of the Sixes. This will surely prove to be a quantum leap forward in terms of viewership and further validation for this iconic tournament. Team India will return to the Hong Kong Sixes looking to go deeper into the competition after opening their 2025 campaign with a two-run DLS victory over Pakistan before exiting the tournament following defeats in their subsequent matches. The challenge will be formidable. Pakistan enters the 2026 edition as defending champions, having defeated debutants Kuwait in last year's final to claim a record sixth Hong Kong Sixes title. The 2026 tournament will feature eight major cricketing nations alongside four Associate Members, setting the stage for three days of fast-paced, attacking cricket at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground. The Hong Kong Sixes has distinctive short-format competitions. Played with six players per side, the tournament compresses the intensity of a full cricket match into a rapid-fire format where boundaries, innovative shots, wickets and momentum shifts come thick and The 2026 tournament will feature eight major cricketing nations alongside four Associate Members, setting the stage for three days of fast-paced, attacking cricket at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India A's pace trio has a point to prove against Australia
Young Indian fast bowlers Gurjapneet Singh, Arshad Khan, and Yash Thakur are set to feature in the India A vs Australia A one-day series, aiming to showcase their talent and address the senior national team's current scarcity in the pace department. The series, initially anticipated for Hardik Pandya's return, now serves as a crucial platform for these emerging pacers to catch the attention of national selectors amidst injuries and inconsistent form among established bowlers.
Fast-Rising Pace Bowler Hasan Mahmud Says Test Cricket Momentum Turning For Bangladesh
Fast-rising pace bowler Hasan Mahmud said on Monday Bangladesh's upward trajectory has made a place in the World Test Championship final a realistic dream for his team. Bangladesh are fourth in the World Test Championship standings after a shock nine-wicket victory over Australia in Darwin in August, a result that highlighted the strides made by a side long regarded as Test underachievers. The momentum is coming towards us, definitely, Hasan, 26, told AFP in an interview in Dhaka. The atmosphere is such that Bangladesh can now dominate in Test cricket, said the right-arm bowler, who played a key role by taking 6-55 in Darwin. We haven't dominated (in Test cricket). Now is the time. Hasan said the Darwin victory could be a springboard for bigger achievements for Bangladesh, who have won six of their 13 Tests in the past two years. Bangladesh have six Tests remaining in the current World Test Championship cycle, including home series against the West Indies and England, as well as a tour of South Africa. If we win four matches at home, why shouldn't we play in the World Test Championship final? That's the dream for Bangladesh now, Hasan said. The paceman, who enjoyed a successful county stint with Kent this year, has been a central figure in Bangladesh's recent rise. Nicknamed Mini-McGrath after the Australian great Glenn McGrath, he believes the perception of Bangladeshi pace bowling is changing as the South Asian country produces a new generation of quicks. Since we started playing, the thinking has changed, he said. They now realise Bangladesh also has good-quality fast bowlers who can be world-class. Hasan's aggressive approach was evident during the Australia series, where he focused on building pressure on batsmen. I was just doing my job and bowling. I wasn't giving them anything easy to hit. I would attack them with the short ball and keep bowling my way. If they hit me, they hit me, he said. Bangladesh were unable to clinch the two-Test series, with Australia claiming the second Test in Mackay by an innings and 51 runs. However, Hasan said he was confident that Bangladesh's graph will continue to move upward in the coming days. Look at how much we've improved in Test cricket, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories If the fast bowlers stay in good shape and the batsmen remain in form, then we will go to a higher level.
Great Opportunity For Zimbabwe Ngarava Embraces Trial By Fire For 2027 Mens ODI WC
ODI World Cup: As Zimbabwe prepares to co-host the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, skipper Richard Ngarava made no secret of what lies ahead for his team a trial by fire against the games finest teams in front of their passionate home crowd. Co-hosting the marquee tournament alongside South Africa and Namibia, Zimbabwe have been drawn into a blockbuster Group A featuring India, defending champions Australia, Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Qualifier A. Every one of their five group games will be played on home soil across Bulawayo, Harare, and Victoria Falls. This is exciting news. This is a great opportunity for Zimbabwe to showcase ourselves. We have great tourism, great culture and great sportsmanship, so we are honoured to be hosting. We hope to do our best, especially for the fans who will be cheering for us all day long, said Ngarava in a statement by Zimbabwe Cricket on Monday. Zimbabwe open their campaign against Qualifier A at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo on October 9, and is followed by a high-stakes clash against Afghanistan at the same venue two days later. The action then shifts to Harare Sports Club, where they take on reigning champions Australia on October 15 and 1992 winners Pakistan on October 19, before wrapping up the group stage with a marquee encounter against two-time champions India at Victoria Falls on October 24. We are excited to play whatever teams come our way. All these teams are great teams with brilliant players, and I know that playing against them will push us to do our very best. Its not going to be easy, but we will definitely do our best, added Ngarava. For seasoned vice-captain Sikandar Raza, the prospect carries emotional weight - a chance to feature in a World Cup in front of his home fans before calling time on an illustrious career. What excites me is the fact that I will finally be playing a home World Cup. Its a great privilege, a great honour to play a home World Cup and to play in front of our own fans. I think thats the most exciting part for me: before I hang up my boots, I have the honour to play in a home World Cup. Raza pointed to local familiarity as a key strategic asset when foreign teams arrive on unfamiliar African pitches. A home World Cup is always good in a way that you have that little bit of an added advantage because everybodys coming to you, whereas youve been playing on those wickets. So adjusting to those wickets doesnt take too long, he said. Calling on the nation to rally behind the team, Raza urged fans to create an electric atmosphere at every venue. The message to the supporters is: make your voices count, as youve always done. Make your presence felt, as youve always done. Lets have a good World Cup. Most importantly, lets show the world that Africa can host a successful and a great World Cup. Head coach Justin Sammons highlighted the immense value of testing his squad against top international teams on home soil. India at Vic Falls will grab a lot of attention, as well as Pakistan. And then youre also playing the current holders in Australia, so there are three massive games with a lot of exposure for our guys, which is brilliant for them to showcase their skills and challenge themselves against the best. Sammons was equally cautious about the threat posed by Afghanistan. They have a lot of X-factor in their team, with most of their players, if not all of them, involved in all these franchise leagues around the world. Theyve got so many match winners within their group. Bulawayo probably suits them more than if they had to play us at Harare, so thatll be a challenge in itself in terms of the conditions and having a home advantage, he said. With distinct conditions expected across the three venues, Sammons noted that crowd energy could prove to be the ultimate difference-maker. I think its more the crowds and the home support thatll be a big factor than the conditions. Were not sure what were going to get at Vic Falls. Obviously, there have been no games played there as yet, so its sort of an unknown. Bulawayo, we know, is just a really good cricket wicket and the team with the best skills will come out on top there. Harare, obviously, we know offers a little bit more bounce and pace, the coach detailed. Looking ahead, Sammons stressed that executing skills of the players under relentless pressure remains the coaching group's primary focus. In terms of us moving forward over the next year, its really going to come down to us challenging ourselves in terms of our skills, trying to keep improving upon those skills, because, at the end of the day, that is whats going to count. Obviously, there have been no games played there as yet, so its sort of an unknown. Bulawayo, we know, is just a really good cricket wicket and the team with the best skills will come out on top there. Harare, obviously, we know offers a little bit more bounce and pace, the coach detailed. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Why Sooryavanshi Will Have To Wait: Gambhir
Gautam Gambhir has told Vaibhav Sooryavanshi that despite his impressive form, he will need to wait for his opportunity in the T20 team due to the established players and the importance of team continuity.
Abdominal Strain May Rule Out Green From Australias First Test Against South Africa
The West Australian: Star all-rounder Cameron Green could be forced to miss Australias opening Test against South Africa, starting in Durban on October 9, as he continues his recovery from an abdominal strain. A report in The West Australian on Monday said if Green doesnt play the first Test at Kingsmead, it hands a potential look into the playing eleven for his Western Australian teammate, batting all-rounder Cooper Connolly. Green sustained the injury while playing a hook shot during the third ODI against the Proteas and has been in a race against time to regain match fitness. Green, 27, was absent from Australias two-day warm-up fixture in Potchefstroom and was restricted to minor physical conditioning work on the sidelines. As per the report, Green could be targeting the second or third Test for his return to action. The setback is particularly frustrating for the Australian selectors as Green had also been nursing a sore shoulder through the recent ODI series, which limited his bowling workload. The latest abdominal strain impacts his batting, bowling, and fielding capabilities, thus depriving Australia of a key balance provider in their playing eleven. Green had been in fine touch with the bat - having registered a Test century against Bangladesh in Darwin, and finished as one of the standout batters in that series alongside Steve Smith. Greens potential absence firmly places Connolly in line for a potential second Test appearance after making his debut in Sri Lanka early last year. The Durban pitch, historically expected to offer assistance to slow bowlers, could favour Connollys inclusion as a spin-all-rounder who offers handy left-arm orthodox bowling option alongside his middle-order batting. Green's injury also guarantees Beau Webster a spot in the playing eleven, while wicketkeeper-batter Sam Harper and veteran Nic Maddinson were brought into the Australian Test squad last week. But the inclusion of the 34-year-old Maddinson, who last played Test cricket a decade ago and has been out of red-ball action for 18 months, has drawn sharp criticism from former Australian speedster Mitchell Johnson. Green's injury also guarantees Beau Webster a spot in the playing eleven, while wicketkeeper-batter Sam Harper and veteran Nic Maddinson were brought into the Australian Test squad last week. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
I Think About What They Are Thinking: Abhishek Sharma Reveals How He Prepares For Bowlers
Abhishek Sharma: Abhishek Sharma has revealed that his preparation for international cricket increasingly involves trying to anticipate the plans of opposing bowlers, with the India opener using video analysis and hypothetical match-ups to prepare for the challenges posed by world-class attacks. Speaking ahead of Indias new home season against the West Indies, Abhishek explained that his aggressive batting is accompanied by detailed planning designed to ensure he is ready when bowlers refuse to give him his preferred scoring options. Its not like I just go and hit. I know there are world-class bowlers, world-class teams ahead, and they wont give away easy runs, and they wont easily let me hit the shots I want to play. But as a player, I feel this is my responsibility, that I think about what they are thinking, Abhishek said on JioStar. The left-hander said he has recently been working with his video analyst by reversing the perspective and imagining himself as part of the opposition trying to devise a plan against him. Recently, Ive been talking with my video analyst that, If you were in the other team, probably, just imagine youve been working with the Afghanistan team right now, then what plans would you keep for me as a bowler? So, I asked him that, took videos from him. So, I keep preparing myself, that they wont bowl where I want. I will have to make some adjustments. They are not going to give you easy runs. So, I prepare myself like that, he added. The left-hander said he has recently been working with his video analyst by reversing the perspective and imagining himself as part of the opposition trying to devise a plan against him. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'His time will come': Shreyas Iyer on Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Despite limited opportunities in the playing XI, India skipper Shreyas Iyer has expressed strong confidence in young cricketer Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, stating that the 15-year-old's time to dominate Indian cricket will come.
India, West Indies fined by the ICC after third ODI due to slow over-rate; Check details
The ODI series between India and the West Indies ended with the Men in Blue clinching the three-game affair. Winning the first and second ODI of the series, India won the series but ended up losing the third ODI. For the final game of the ODI series, India took on the West Indies in New Chandigarh, and the Windies managed to register a brilliant victory after an incredible performance in the game.
'I had only one goal that is to win trophies, says Abhishek on his impact-first approach
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 5 (IANS) Abhishek Sharma has credited the freedom provided by his teammates and coaches for allowing him to embrace an aggressive, impact-driven approach, saying his ambition has never been centred on personal milestones but on helping India and his teams win trophies. The 26-year-old, who was part of Indias ICC Mens T20 World Cup-winning side, discussed his playing philosophy ahead of the new home season against the West Indies. Abhishek traced the development of his mindset to his domestic cricket days, when he began placing greater emphasis on influencing matches rather than chasing individual numbers. When I started, I thought that I have to play in a way that I can play impactful innings for my team. That started from my Punjab team in domestic cricket and we won the domestic T20 competition in 2024. From there, I feel, a mindset developed that I dont have to chase milestones, because thats not in your hands. Whats in your hands is how much impact you can make. That is how I want to play, no matter what opposition we are playing. As an individual, I never had this urge that I should achieve this, achieve that. I had only one goal that I have to win trophies. I feel that you need a lot of support from the team, the management, the coaches, the captain, because they know how you play. I feel they have helped me quite a lot, the entire team, not just the support staff, even the players as well, senior players. So now, like it has happened for me when I was new, the new players should also get that freedom, they should feel that they belong here. So, I really enjoy that when I talk with Vaibhav or with other young players, Abhishek told JioStar. That backing, according to Abhishek, has been crucial in allowing him to play without being constrained by the pressure of reaching specific statistical targets.
Gautam Gambhir Reveals Shreyas Iyer's 'Rare' Captaincy Quality That Left Him Stunned
Gautam Gambhir and Shreyas Iyer share a strong bond that dates back to 2024, when they were part of the Kolkata Knight Riders setup in the IPL. While Gambhir served as the team's mentor, Iyer led the side as captain, and together they guided KKR to their third IPL title.
'Rohit Will Be Crucial In 2027 WC': Karthik Praises Ex-captain For Windies Knock
CA International Cricket Stadium: Former India cricketer Dinesh Karthik heaped praise on Rohit Sharma for his measured knock in the third ODI against the West Indies in a tough situation, highlighting that his outing showed why he will be crucial for India in the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa. India lost their captain, Shubman Gill, and Virat Kohli in the first three overs, and with conditions offering a bite for the fast bowlers, the Men in Blue were under the pump in the third rubber at the CA International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh. However, Rohit dropped the anchor and negated the tough period with Ruturaj Gaikwad before smashing 92 from 85 balls. Taking note of how Rohit sailed the ship through the tough shores before cashing in, former cricketers Karthik and Ajinkya Rahane heaped praise on the former captain, with the former highlighting that his innings proved why he will be crucial for the Men in Blue in the 2027 World Cup. The beauty of having experience is that they have seen this situation a lot before. If you take Rohit Sharma, when he saw the two early wickets fall, if you see he was on 20 for the first 40 balls with a 50 strike rate. That was because he knew he could trust himself and back it up and get those runs quickly. And then you see how quickly he moved to 92 after scoring less than a run-a ball. His strike rate went above 100, but he made that all up in the next 40 balls. In the first 40 balls, he took time, didn't allow wickets to fall and then in the next 40 balls, he went and smashed, Karthik said on Cricbuzz. With West Indies bowling well and reaping the rewards from the pitch, Rohit curbed his aggressive instincts to play time before going all guns blazing. Karthik believed that can also happen in South Africa, highlighting how experience can be crucial at that time. He saw Jayden Seales was bowling a good spell; Alzarri (Joseph) was bowling nice and sharp. He took time, waited for them to bowl in his areas and if not, I am happy to defend. To have that courage and conviction in that moment is what experience is. A lot of people would have tried to do a little more than they should because they would fear. A young Rohit Sharma would have made that mistake but today he has a wealth of experience. The same thing could have happen even in South Africa, and that's when the experience of a Rohit or Shubman or Virat can come through, where they are able to lower their gears down and say, 'okay I am not going to play big for the moment, and I know I can make up later, he added. He saw Jayden Seales was bowling a good spell; Alzarri (Joseph) was bowling nice and sharp. He took time, waited for them to bowl in his areas and if not, I am happy to defend. To have that courage and conviction in that moment is what experience is. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India, West Indies fined for slow over rate in 3rd ODI
Both the Indian and West Indies cricket teams were fined by the International Cricket Council for maintaining slow over rates during their third and final One-Day International match in Mullanpur, New Chandigarh.
Injured Hardik Pandya Faces Fresh Setback
All-rounder Suryansh Shedge has been named as a replacement for the injured Hardik Pandya in the India A squad for the upcoming three-match one-day series against Australia A in Puducherry, with Pandya ruled out due to a fresh injury concern preventing him from bowling pain-free.
The afterglow of the Asiad gold
For Shreyas, this was a much-needed victory. This campaign, away from probing eyes, would have facilitated his reintegration to progress further. The fact that he had most of his first-choice personnel around would have aided the process of refamiliarisation and put him in a good head-space
KL Rahul: Improving old ball game crucial for big targets
Indian batter K L Rahul is actively working on improving his game against the old ball to ensure the middle overs generate more runs, aiming for India to consistently score in excess of 370 in ODIs amidst the growing trend of high targets being chased down.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar To Captain Indian Team In Unique Tournament, Krunal Pandya Also Picked
Bhuvneshwar Kumar brings years of international and IPL experience and the ability to make an impact with the new ball, while Krunal Pandya provides the versatility of a proven all-rounder.
India and West Indies fined for slow over-rates in third ODI
While India were found four overs short in New Chandigarh, West Indies were deemed to be two short
India, WI Sanctioned For Maintaining Slow Over-rates In Chandigarh ODI
Player Support Personnel: India and the West Indies have been sanctioned for maintaining slow over-rates during the third and final ODI of the three-match series in New Chandigarh. India have been fined 20 per cent of their match fee, and the West Indies have been fined 10 per cent of their match fee after India were ruled to be four overs short and the Windies were two overs short after time allowances were taken into consideration during the final ODI on Saturday. In accordance with Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for every over their side fails to bowl in the allotted time, the ICC said in a statement. Both captains pled guilty and accepted the proposed sanctions, so there was no need for formal hearings. Prakash Bhatt of the ICC International Panel of Match Referees imposed the sanctions. On-field umpires Jayaraman Madanagopal and Sam Nogajski, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Virender Sharma levelled the charges. The West Indies entered the final ODI having already lost the three-match series 2-0, but finished the ODI leg of their India tour in record-breaking fashion with a historic victory. Shai Hope carried the bat with his 162 not out as the visitors chased down 352 against India, their highest score in a successful ODI run-chase. Their previous best (331/5) was against Ireland in 2019. Hope is the first-ever wicketkeeper-captain to score over 150 runs in an ODI innings. His knock was the highest-ever score by a West Indies men's batter in a successful run-chase, breaking a 33-year-old national record set by Brian Lara. Lara had scored 153 against Pakistan in Sharjah in 1993. Hope is the first-ever wicketkeeper-captain to score over 150 runs in an ODI innings. His knock was the highest-ever score by a West Indies men's batter in a successful run-chase, breaking a 33-year-old national record set by Brian Lara. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Samson or Sooryavanshi? India's tricky call for WI's T20Is
India face West Indies in the T20 opener as Gautam Gambhir weighs a key selection call between Sanju Samson and teenager Vaibhav Sooryavanshi.
West Indies Make Big Change In Squad Ahead Of 1st T20I vs India
The West Indies have added wicketkeeper-batter Amir Jangoo to the squad for the upcoming T20I series against India as cover for Jewel Andrew, who injured his finger during the third game of the ODI leg of the tour.
Gautam Gambhir Answers Million-Dollar Question After Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's T20I Snub
India head coach Gautam Gambhir opened up on the conversations he had with 15-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and said he made the talented youngster understand sometimes a player has to wait for his opportunity despite performing well.
In-form Jangoo joins WI T20I squad for India series
Top-order batter Amir Jangoo has been added to the West Indies T20I squad for the five-match series against India, serving as cover for the injured Jewel Andrew, who sustained a finger injury during the third ODI.
West Indies add Amir Jangoo to T20I squad as cover for Jewel Andrew
The West Indies are all set to take on India across five T20I matches. It is worth noting that the two sides are in the midst of a multi-format white-ball series that kicked off with three ODI matches. Winning two and losing the third, the Indian team clinched the ODI series with some brilliant performances.
West Indies add Amir Jangoo as cover for the injured Jewel Andrew for India T20Is
Jewel Andrew picked up a finger injury during the third ODI against India; a fracture has been ruled out and he is being monitored by the West Indies medical team
Losing perspective, missing the meaning
De Zorzi out, Rabada doubtful Australia Test
South African batsman Tony de Zorzi has been ruled out of the first Test against Australia due to a hamstring strain, adding to the team's growing injury concerns, with key paceman Kagiso Rabada also doubtful.
'Defending The Gold Is Special Moment': Laxman Hails Indias Champion Mindset After Asiad Triumph
Karogi Athletic Park: India head coach VVS Laxman praised his team's resilience and champions mindset after returning to India following their gold-medal triumph at the Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, saying the players held their nerve when tested by difficult conditions to successfully defend the title. India beat arch-rivals Pakistan in the final at the Karogi Athletic Park, Nisshin, to successfully defend their men's cricket title. Laxman said the achievement carried particular significance, with the team being defending champions at the continental showpiece. Defending the gold is also a very special moment for all of us, Laxman said while speaking to reporters upon his return to India. The former India batter credited the players for consistently rising to the occasion despite challenges during the Games, particularly when the conditions made things difficult. Very pleased with the way the team played. Getting a gold in the Asian Games is a matter of great pride. And I think everyone played to their potential, he added. Laxman also underlined the depth of talent within the squad, pointing to the work ethic and mentality that helped India produce the desired result on the continental stage. We are very lucky to have so many players who are so talented and hard-working and have a great work ethic, and also, most importantly, who have got a champions mindset, he said. The coach felt that the teams ability to remain composed when the stakes were high was one of the defining aspects of its campaign. We are very lucky to have so many players who are so talented and hard-working and have a great work ethic, and also, most importantly, who have got a champions mindset, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Vaibhav Is Talented, But He'll Have To Wait For His Opportunity: Gambhir
New Delhi: India head coach Gautam Gambhir opened up on his conversations with teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and said he made the talented youngster understand sometimes a player has to wait for his opportunity despite performing well. Earlier this year, Sooryavanshi became the youngest Indian to play international cricket against England, making his T20I debut at 15 years and 99 days and surpassing Sachin Tendulkars long-standing record. He then became the youngest player to score a half-century in mens international cricket, reaching the landmark against Zimbabwe at 15 years and 118 days. However, he did not get any game during the entire Afghanistan series and the one-off T20I against Japan in the build-up to the Asian Games. The 15-year-old batter made his way back to India XI in the Asian Games semifinal against Sri Lanka, where he played a more substantial role in the match, smashing 38 off 21 balls. It was a new experience for me as well. Yes, he was in good form, but I made him understand that sometimes, because of the players who have done well for a long time, he will have to wait for his opportunity. And there's one more thing, social media or outside noise doesn't decide the playing eleven, Gambhir said on JioStar. It depends on who in that dressing room, or who the coach and captain feel can win us the match, or what is the best playing eleven, and who have done well for such a long time. Because if Vaibhav plays today, then it's going to be a tough conversation between me and whoever we leave out, whether it's Abhishek or Sanju. So, we can't suddenly ignore a combination that has created such an impact over the last one and a half or two years, and after three or four failures, drop them and play a young player who is very talented, who is also in very good form. So, sometimes you will have to wait for your opportunity because we want to create that security in that dressing room, he added. Sooryavanshi, who made a brisk 15 off nine balls in the Asian Games 2026 final as India defended their gold medal with a 19-run win over Pakistan, became the youngest Indian to win an Asian Games gold medal at the age of 15 years, six months and six days, surpassing shooter Saurabh Chaudhary, who was 16 years, three months and nine days old when he won the mens 10m air pistol gold medal at the Asian Games 2018 in Jakarta. So, we can't suddenly ignore a combination that has created such an impact over the last one and a half or two years, and after three or four failures, drop them and play a young player who is very talented, who is also in very good form. So, sometimes you will have to wait for your opportunity because we want to create that security in that dressing room, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Bracewell to casual contract, pursue BBL
New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell will move to a casual contract for the 2026-27 season to pursue an opportunity in Australia's Big Bash League, the country's cricket board (NZC) announced.
Michael Bracewell makes the shift to NZC's casual contract for the 2026-27 season
In a major development, star New Zealand all-rounder Michael Bracewell has made the decision to shift to NZCs (New Zealand Cricket ) casual contract for the 2026-27 season. It is interesting to note that Bracewells shift will allow him to compete in the BBL (Big Bash League).
Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer suggested one name who he thinks would be the ideal replacement for India at No. 3 in ODIs, once Virat Kohli retires.
WI Add Amir Jangoo For India T20Is As Cover For Injured Jewel Andrew
West Indies T20I: The West Indies have added wicketkeeper-batter Amit Jangoo to the squad for the upcoming T20I series against India as cover for Jewel Andrew, who injured his finger during the third game of the ODI leg of the tour. Andrew was taken to the hospital for an X-ray after sustaining a finger injury while completing the catch of Naman Dhir during the ongoing third ODI against India at the New PCA Stadium in New Chandigarh on Saturday. Cricket West Indies said, Amir Jangoo has been added to the squad as cover for the wicketkeeping position following the finger injury sustained by Jewel Andrew during Saturdays third ODI. Andrew is still being monitored and assessed by the medical team. Andrew hurt his finger on the last ball of the 36th over of Indias innings, when batting all-rounder Naman Dhir chipped a nicely tossed-up delivery from West Indies left-arm spinner Gudakesh Motie towards cover. Andrew, positioned in there, completed a catch and copped a severe blow to his finger, which forced him to go off the field for immediate medical assistance and further assessment. As a result, he was not be able to open the innings in the West Indies chase of 352, and John Campbell will be replaced at the top by skipper Shai Hope. Jangoo has played seven T20Is for the West Indies since making his international debut in December 2024. His record with the bat in those games is middling: 163 runs at a strike rate of 120.74. The 29-year-old Jangoo was impressive form in the ODIs against India, scoring 58 not out, 114 and 67 to finish third on the run-scorers' list across teams, his tally of 239 runs only behind those of Shubman Gill (334) and Shai Hope (278). Jangoo has played seven T20Is for the West Indies since making his international debut in December 2024. His record with the bat in those games is middling: 163 runs at a strike rate of 120.74. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
USA Pacer Ali Khan Bowls Delivery 'That Cannot Exist', Stunned Cricket World Has Questions
The semi-final match between Toronto Sixers and Mississauga Masters in the Canada Super60 tournament witnessed a bizarre moment that left fans and commentators stunned.
No Point: Mohammed Shami Delivered Big Setback In India Return Hopes
Mohammed Shami continues to perform in domestic cricket, yet the distance between him and a potential Team India return is increasing with every passing day.
Bracewell Moves To Casual Contract For 2026-27 Season, Kelly Gets Maiden Central Contract
New Zealand Allrounder Michael Bracewell: New Zealand Allrounder Michael Bracewell will shift to a casual contract with NZC for the 2026-27 season to pursue an opportunity in the Australian Big Bash League. Bracewell joined Finn Allen, Mark Chapman, Lockie Ferguson, Adam Milne, and Tim Seifert, as the other casually contracted players for the 2026-27 season. The 35-year-old will be replaced on the central contract list by Nick Kelly, who earned his first national contract eleven years after making his First Class debut. Bracewell said he was looking forward to facing India later this month in the five-game T20I Series. The backing from New Zealand Cricket for me to take this opportunity at this stage of my career means a lot. As a white-ball only player, this felt like too good of an opportunity to pass up. Im still very much committed to the BlackCaps and cant wait to be involved in the upcoming India tour and future white-ball series. Ive also got my eyes firmly fixed on the opportunity to be involved in the inaugural NZ20 which is set to be introduced from next summer. Kelly, who debuted for New Zealand in March 2025, has 15 international caps (Eight ODI and seven T20I) to his name, including two matches as T20I captain when he filled in for the injured Tom Latham in Bangladesh earlier this year. The left-hander comes onto the central contract list at the age of 33, having recently returned from a county stint with Leicestershire where he contributed 950 runs across all formats, including his sixth List A century in the Metro Bank One Day Cup final against Middlesex. Head Coach Rob Walter said it was pleasing to be able to reward Kelly with his first central contract adding that Kelly, who has scored three half-centuries in his last four ODIs, deserved his opportunity. Nicks been a standout performer in domestic cricket for several seasons now and its testament to his hard work that hes earned this first contract at this stage of his career, he said. Introducing players like Nick to international cricket a bit later certainly has its advantages in terms of the player knowing their game and being able to trust themselves to perform under pressure. Nicks been a standout performer in domestic cricket for several seasons now and its testament to his hard work that hes earned this first contract at this stage of his career, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Michael Bracewell shifts to casual contract with eye on BBL
Nick Kelly has replaced Michael Bracewell in central contracts list for New Zealand men
Indian Men's Cricket Team Returns Home After Asian Games Gold At Aichi-Nagoya
The Indian men's cricket team arrived back home following a gold medal win in the cricket tournament at the recently concluded Asian Games.
Birthday Boy Pant Gets The Perfect Gift
Rest of India defeated Jammu and Kashmir by 167 runs to win the Irani Cup, providing a perfect birthday gift for Captain Rishabh Pant. Despite Pant being sidelined with fever, the team's pacers, led by Mukesh Kumar, secured a sensational victory by adjusting their bowling strategy in the second innings. Young batter Ravichandran Smaran also played a crucial role with a superb century.
England to play 50-over warm-up game ahead of Australia white-ball series
England to face a Western Australia XI at the WACA ground in Perth on November 7, six days before the first of three ODIs against Australia starting at Perth Stadium
PIX: Portugal in Nations League quarters after all-win record
Title holders Portugal defeated Norway 2-1 in the Nations League, securing their place in the March quarter-finals with a perfect record. Goncalo Ramos scored the winning goal, further highlighting the team's success despite Cristiano Ronaldo's recent departure from the squad. Other Nations League results included Denmark beating Wales, the Netherlands overcoming Serbia, and Greece drawing with Germany.
Irani Cup: Age-Group Cricket Experience Helped Me Stay Calm Under Pressure, Says Ravichandran Smaran
Player of the Match Ravichandran Smaran attributed his match-winning composure to hit a match-winning 135 in the Irani Cup clash against Jammu & Kashmir to his extensive experience of playing age-group domestic cricket.
U-23 cricket | Andre Siddarth backs Tamil Nadu team to extend its dominance
Chahal, who has represented India in 72 ODIs and 80 T20Is, never got the opportunity to don the Test whites despite a 17-year career in domestic and county circuits. His last international appearance came during a T20I against the West Indies in August 2023.
India's women's hockey team arrived at Bengaluru airport after winning the Asian Games gold, ending a 44-year wait for an Asian Games medal in women's hockey and securing direct qualification for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
'We Didn't Let It Go, Kept On Fighting' - Pant Hails ROI's Resilience After Irani Cup Triumph
Irani Cup: Rest of India captain Rishabh Pant lauded his team's relentless fight and character after pulling off a hard-fought victory over Jammu and Kashmir in the Irani Cup, adding that the dressing room was driven by a single-minded determination to bring the trophy back after a two-year hiatus. Despite conceding a 41-run first-innings lead to Ranji Trophy winners Jammu and Kashmir, Rest of India staged a remarkable comeback on day four by bundling out J&K for 111 in their pursuit of 279 to claim a 167-run victory at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium on Sunday. Guys, great effort. In the last 5-7 days, we were discussing that let's play for the pride and let's play for our monogram. No matter what happens, especially in the first innings, they did a good batting effort and they took the first innings lead. But, in the dressing room, whatever they do, we need to focus on ourselves. Obviously, most of the time, the game went in their favour, Pant said while addressing his team at the ground, in a video posted by BCCI Domestics social media accounts on Sunday. The victory coincided with Pant's 29th birthday, adding a festive air to the celebrations. Whenever they wanted wicket, whenever they wanted runs. But, one thing for sure, our Rest of India team, we didn't let it go. We just kept on fighting with every ounce of intensity we had. One day, one over, one ball at a time and, everyone contributed in their own way. From last two years, we were not winning. But, we made sure that when we leave this ground, we put our name on the trophy as winners, he added. In the game, Pant made scores of ten and eight, though in the second innings, he came out to bat late due to a fever on day three and didnt take the field on day four, with Sarfaraz Khan taking over as on-field captain. In the video, Pants team-mates and coaches gathered around the dynamic wicketkeeper-batter to sing Happy Birthday in chorus, while ground staff members offered their blessings and best wishes to him. In the game, Pant made scores of ten and eight, though in the second innings, he came out to bat late due to a fever on day three and didnt take the field on day four, with Sarfaraz Khan taking over as on-field captain. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Not Shubman Gill, This Star Wins 'Impact Player Of The Series' Award For West Indies ODIs
Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav was named the winner of the 'Impact Player of the Series' award following India's 2-1 ODI series victory over the West Indies.
Asian Games: PM Modi Praises Indian Contingent, Says Performances Brought 'immense Joy'
Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday congratulated the Indian contingent for its performance at the Asian Games 2026, praising the athletes for representing the country with determination, passion and remarkable sporting spirit. India finished the Aichi-Nagoya Games in fourth position with 85 medals, including 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze, in what became the countrys second-highest medal haul in the history of the Asian Games. As the Asian Games 2026 draw to a close, my compliments to every member of the Indian contingent for representing our nation with determination, passion and remarkable sporting spirit, PM Modi wrote on X. The Prime Minister congratulated the countrys medal winners and said their performances had brought immense joy to the nation. Congratulations to all our medal winners, whose performances have brought immense joy to the nation, he wrote. PM Modi also hoped that the performances in Aichi-Nagoya would inspire greater achievements in the coming years and help strengthen Indias sporting ecosystem at the grassroots level. May these games inspire even greater achievements in the years ahead. May they contribute to strengthening sports at the grassroots too, he added. Indias campaign in Japan was highlighted by a number of historic achievements and successful title defences across disciplines. The mens and womens cricket teams retained their Asian Games titles, while both kabaddi teams also won gold medals. The mens hockey team successfully defended its title with a 5-1 victory over Malaysia, while the womens team ended a 44-year wait for an Asian Games gold by defeating China 1-0 in the final. India also produced several landmark individual performances. Pranavi Urs became the first Indian woman to win an individual gold medal in golf at the Asian Games, while 17-year-old Kumkum Mohod scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman to win individual recurve gold at the continental showpiece. Lovlina Borgohain also joined an elite list by becoming only the second Indian woman after Mary Kom to win an Asian Games boxing gold. India also produced several landmark individual performances. Pranavi Urs became the first Indian woman to win an individual gold medal in golf at the Asian Games, while 17-year-old Kumkum Mohod scripted history by becoming the first Indian woman to win individual recurve gold at the continental showpiece. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Fresh Injury Setback For India, Star Duo's Return Delayed Ahead Of New Zealand Tour: Report
India's white-ball tour of New Zealand, comprising five T20Is and five ODIs, begins on October 22 and runs until November 15. The Test series will then begin with the opening match in Wellington from November 19 to 23.
Hats Off to You, Cris: Zidane Backs Ronaldo Amid Portugal Row
Cristiano Ronaldo's status as one of football's all-time greats hardly needs qualification. But his latest contretemps with the Portugal national team has been bound to fuel new scrutiny of the veteran forward's off-field activities. Ronaldo returned to the fold after uncertainty
Labuschagne scores century in low-intensity Potchefstroom warm-up
He appears certain to retain his spot at No. 3 for the opening Test against South Africa in Durban next week
Kuldeep Wins Impact Player Of The Series Award After ODI Series Win Over The West Indies
Impact Player: Left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav was named the winner of 'Impact Player of the Series' award following India's 2-1 ODI series victory over the West Indies. He earned high praise from team physiotherapist Yogesh Parmar for putting his body on the line and achieving major milestones throughout the leg. Kuldeep emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the three-match series by picking seven scalps, including a four-wicket haul in Thiruvananthapuram. He also became the fastest Indian spinner to cross the 200-wicket milestone in mens ODIs. First of all, congratulations for winning the series. The award goes to someone who has consistently performed throughout the series. He has also got 200 wickets in ODI format. So that's another achievement and he is also the highest wicket taker for this series. As we discussed, he has always stood up and performed exceptionally well and he has always put his body on the line and this award goes to Kuldeep Yadav, Parmar said in a video posted on BCCIs social media accounts on Sunday. Accepting the honour, Kuldeep credited senior batters captain Shubman Gill, Virat Kohli, wicketkeeper-batter KL Rahul, and Rohit Sharma for setting up matches with the bat, while reflecting on the preparatory camp in Thiruvananthapuram helping him hit peak rhythm ahead of the series. Firstly, congratulations for the series win. A lot of credit goes to Shubhi, Virat bhai, KL bhai and Rohit bhai, especially with the bat. This award really means a lot to me because before the start of the series, we had a couple of sessions in Trivandrum. Then I felt like I was in a very, very good rhythm. I just wanted to continue that rhythm into the games as well and luckily, it went really well. So this is very special. Thank you, he said. Firstly, congratulations for the series win. A lot of credit goes to Shubhi, Virat bhai, KL bhai and Rohit bhai, especially with the bat. This award really means a lot to me because before the start of the series, we had a couple of sessions in Trivandrum. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
U-19 cricket | India keen to get the job done in second game against Australia
Virender Sehwag's Son Aaryavir Gets Big Leadership Role After India U19 Heroics
The 18-year-old's elevation to the leadership role comes after the opener recently earned his India U-19 breakthrough in the three-match Youth ODI series against Australia U-19, impressing in the hosts' 3-0 series sweep.
Watch: Virat Kohli's Reaction As Fan Holds His Brand's Shoe In Crowd
Virat Kohli recently launched his shoe brand, One8, which has become immensely popular among fans. Many supporters have been spotted wearing the footwear, which has received positive reviews and widespread appreciation.
Our fielding has not been up to the mark: Gill
The Indian captain adds that ground fielding needs to get better
Tamil Nadu bags u-23 title with outright victory
Irani Cup: Mukesh and Akash blow away J&K as RoI triumphs
J&K fold up for 111 in less than 29 overs on the third day
Digital Desk | Vancouver, Oct 4 (IANS) The Canada Super 60 Season 2 semi-final line-up is set, with unbeaten Mississauga Masters taking on Toronto Sixers in the first knockout and Vancouver Anchors facing Brampton Blitz in the second. The women's competition, meanwhile, ended with Toronto Sixers Women successfully defending their title, beating Vancouver Warriors Women by six wickets in the final. Warriors posted 84/9 in their 10 overs, with Sophie Reid making 35 off 28 and Marizanne Kapp adding 16 off nine, before Toronto chased the target in 9.3 overs. Ella McCaughan was the match-winner with an unbeaten 36 off 20 balls, including three fours and two sixes, while Indu Barma remained unbeaten on 18 off 13 as Toronto completed their second successive Women's title. Mississauga finished the league stage on top with 10 points from five matches, followed by Vancouver on eight, Brampton on six and Toronto on four, setting up the 1-v-4 and 2-v-3 semi-final pairings. White Rock Warriors finished fifth with two points, while Montreal Royal Tigers ended their campaign without a win. The top four positions were confirmed after the final round of league matches at BC Place. The final round saw several of the tournament's established names produce telling performances. Kieron Pollard led Toronto Sixers' resistance with an unbeaten 40 off 24 balls against Mississauga Masters, but his effort could not prevent a 92-run defeat as the Masters posted 166/5. Chris Jordan smashed 30 off 12 balls, including three sixes, for Vancouver Anchors in their 141/7 against White Rock Warriors, helping set up a 35-run victory. Montreal's Isuru Udana, who had emerged as one of the Royal Tigers' leading wicket-takers during the league stage, was another key contributor for the side that finished sixth. Vancouver Anchors closed their league campaign with an emphatic 35-run victory over White Rock Warriors. After being sent in, Vancouver raced to 141/7 in 10 overs, with Aneurin Donald striking 30 off 11 balls, and Obus Pienaar making 31 off 12, in addition to Jordans aforementioned inputs. Moeen Ali fell for a duck, but the Anchors had already built sufficient momentum before White Rock were restricted to 106/7. Dwaine Pretorius made 35 off 10 for White Rock, while Hayden Dickson contributed 29 off 12, but Martin Andersson's 3/24 and Ben Sanderson's 2/4 kept the chase under control. Mississauga Masters were once again the dominant side, completing the league phase with five wins from five after dismantling Toronto Sixers by 92 runs. Alex Lees produced one of the innings of the tournament, smashing 70 from 24 balls with six fours and six sixes, while George Munsey added 27 off 15 and David Wiese finished with 23 off eight as Mississauga reached 166/5. Toronto never got close in the chase, slipping to 74/9 despite Pollard's unbeaten 40, with Wiese taking 3/9 and Saad Bin Zafar claiming 3/2.
Alcaraz through to Japan Open semis, Fils crashes out
Defending champion Alcaraz will play fellow Spaniard Jaume Munar for a place in the final after the world number 64 ended the impressive run of 86th-ranked Kyrian Jacquet of France
KL Rahul: Indian wicketkeeper batter KL Rahul revealed that he has formed a blueprint on batting in different situations in ODIs in his mind, which helped him play an unbeaten knock of 129 runs against the West Indies in the third ODI on Saturday. Rahul, who didn't get an opportunity to bat in the first two matches, made the best use of the chance he got in the final match of the three-match series at the new PCA stadium and hit his career-best score in 50-over cricket. However, his effort was overshadowed by West Indies captain Shai Hopes unbeaten 162 as the visitors chased down the target with 10 balls to spare. Rahul said he spends considerable time thinking about how he wants to approach his batting in different scenarios, with his role at No. 5 requiring a slightly different blueprint in ODI cricket. I think for me, its very important for me to have prepared really well. And I put a lot of focus on how I prepare. I am someone who sits down and thinks about how I want to play my cricket and how I want to bat in certain scenarios, Rahul said in a BCCI video. And when Im batting at number five, I wont say theres a fixed template, but theres a little bit of a blueprint in my head as to this is how Im going to play in ODI cricket. And when it comes to the test, theres something that theres a game plan for. And that for me is most important, he added. Rahul walked in with India in trouble at 160/4 after Rohit Sharmas 92 and Ruturaj Gaikwads 57 had steadied the innings following the early dismissals of Shubman Gill and Virat Kohli. He initially played the supporting role before accelerating towards the end. Rahul reached his fifty from 41 balls and brought up his ninth ODI hundred off 80 deliveries with a fine shot over a fine leg off Jayden Seales in the 49th over. He then finished unbeaten on 129, helping India add 105 runs in the final 10 overs. Rahul said the ability to switch into match mode comes naturally when representing India, but he has focused heavily on controlling the aspects of his game that are within his reach. You know, when you play for India, when youre representing your country, and when you walk out trying to face up to that first ball, and there are so many people who have come to watch you and youre wearing the blues or youre wearing the white, youre representing your country, and youre wearing your colours. I dont think it takes too much time to switch on, he said. So you, I think, as players, automatically switch on when youre in that moment. The things that Ive really worked on are the things that I can control: my game plan and my preparation. And if I can tick those boxes, then I feel quite switched on, he added. Rahuls knock also came on a significant personal day as he crossed 10,000 runs in international cricket, joining a select group of Indian players to reach the landmark. A handful of people in our country have been able to achieve 10,000 runs overall. So yeah, a very special moment for me, for my coaches, for my family, he said. Rahuls knock also came on a significant personal day as he crossed 10,000 runs in international cricket, joining a select group of Indian players to reach the landmark. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Nortje: 'I'll be very excited if I can put my Test cap on again'
Having played his last Test in 2023, he's eyeing a spot in SA's side for upcoming three-Test series against Australia at home
'To Keep For 50 Overs And Then Score 162 Is Special': Sammy On WI Skipper Hope
ODI World Cup: West Indies head coach Daren Sammy lavishly praised captain Shai Hopes exceptional leadership after the skipper produced a match-winning, unbeaten 162 to lead the visitors to a historic 352-run chase against India in the third and final ODI of the series. Hope, who spent all 50 overs behind the stumps during Indias innings before opening the batting in place of an injured Jewel Andrew, anchored the record-breaking pursuit to hand West Indies a memorable victory by carrying his bat throughout the chase at the new PCA Stadium. He was in the field for what, 98.2 overs. He literally took the team on his back today with the bat, like hes done so many times before. The skipper stepping up is not anything new to him, but to keep 50 overs and then put on your pads and go and play an innings like that was special, Sammy was quoted as saying by the ICC on Sunday. The head coach felt also Hope's contributions to West Indies cricket often do not receive the recognition they deserve. He doesnt really say much. But when he speaks, hes quite clear as to what hes expecting from himself and from the group. As I said, he leads by his performance. He believes in that. Like, somebody had to go up and open, and when I said to him (to open), he didnt say a word. He just put on his pads, went out, and won us the game. I dont think he gets enough credit for what hes done for West Indies, how hes played, and the commitment hes given us. Class player, great individual, he added. Highlighting the broader takeaways from the series ahead of 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, though the West Indies might have to take the qualifiers route, Sammy felt there were a lot of positives to take from a batting perspective. We came here knowing the quality that India has and to measure ourselves against a team like that. We showed that when we do things consistently well for long enough, we could match the number one team in the world. We will take a lot of learning from this. Highlighting the broader takeaways from the series ahead of 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, though the West Indies might have to take the qualifiers route, Sammy felt there were a lot of positives to take from a batting perspective. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
IND vs WI ODIs review: Men in Blues bowling remains a red mark even as batters extend purple patch
Apart from Kuldeep in the first match, none of the other bowlers looked like they could keep the batters honest or provide timely breakthroughs
Wicketkeeper batter Sanju Samson said fielding experienced A-list players helped the team manage the pressures of a high-octane final against Pakistan.
CRICKET | Two bodies, one destiny: Mukesh, Akash savour tight bond
Anukul drafted into India A squad for one-dayers against Australia A as Dhirs replacement
Digital Desk | Puducherry, Oct 4 (IANS) Left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Anukul Roy has been drafted into the India A squad for the upcoming three-match one-day series against Australia A as a replacement for Naman Dhir, who was called up to the senior mens T20I team for the five-game series against the West Indies. Dhir was included in India's T20I squad for the matches against the West Indies as a replacement for off-spin bowling all-rounder Washington Sundar, who was released to play Ranji Trophy for Tamil Nadu ahead of India's Test tour of New Zealand, happening next month. Anukul was in Srinagar as a member of the Rest of India Irani Cup team, before travelling to Puducherry to join the India A squad after Naman was called up for the upcoming senior mens T20I team duty, a source privy to the developments told IANS on Sunday. Anukul, who plays for Jharkhand in domestic cricket, was a member of India A squad in the 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka in June, where he played five games and had the highest score of 39 with the bat and took seven wickets in all for the visitors to win the trophy. He then turned out for East Zone in their victorious Duleep Trophy campaign making scores of 37, 16, 0, 45 and 64 with the bat while picking seven wickets, including a five-for against North East Zone. Previously, seam-bowling all-rounder Suryansh Shedge has been drafted into the India A squad as a replacement for injured Hardik Pandya, who is down with a right medial tibial stress syndrome. The three-match unofficial ODI series between India A and Australia A begins at the Cricket Association Puducherry Siechem Ground on Tuesday with a start time of 2pm, while subsequent matches will take place on October 9 and 11 respectively and begin from 9am. India A skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad will link up after being a part of Indias 2-1 ODI series win over the West Indies, while Vipraj Nigam and Yash Thakur are scheduled to arrive after being a part of Asian Games gold medal winning team. Updated India A squad: Ruturaj Gaikwad (captain), Priyansh Arya, Sai Sudharsan, Devdutt Padikkal (vice-captain), Rajat Patidar, Kumar Kushagra (wk), Nishant Sindhu, Vipraj Nigam, Arshin Kulkarni, Arshad Khan, Prabhsimran Singh (wk), Gurjapneet Singh, Yash Thakur, Suryansh Shedge and Anukul Roy.
Beed's Cricket Revolution: Three Local Talents Named In Maharashtra Ranji Squad
Despite limited access to advanced cricketing facilities and training opportunities, three youngsters from Beed have made their mark through hard work, earning berths in the Maharashtra Ranji Trophy squad.
Shedge Links Up With India A Squad For One-dayers Against Australia A As Pandyas Replacement
Suryansh Shedge: Seam-bowling all-rounder Suryansh Shedge has been drafted into the India A squad as a replacement for injured Hardik Pandya for the upcoming three-match one-day series against Australia A, starting here on Tuesday. Hardik, who was named in the squad last month, but subject to fitness clearance, was ruled out after experiencing discomfort in his right calf on September 19. An MRI scan later revealed that he has very mild intramedullary edema, which is equivalent to suffering right medial tibial stress syndrome. Yes, Shedge has joined the India A squad as a replacement for injured Hardik. Shedge had a quadriceps injury and was recovering from it at the BCCI Centre of Excellence in Bengaluru, a source tracking developments told IANS on Sunday. Shedge, 23, made his international debut during India's T20I tour of Ireland in June this year and featured in the T20I series against England and Zimbabwe, though hes yet to take a wicket. He also impressed during the India A 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka in June this year, scoring 147 runs in five matches while chipping in two scalps in 23 overs. His inclusion in the India A team means Shedge will miss Mumbai's opening Ranji Trophy game against Chandigarh at the Wankhede Stadium, starting on October 11. Middle-order batter Naman Dhir will also miss the 50-over series against Australia A after being drafted into India's T20I squad for the upcoming five-match series against the West Indies as a replacement for Washington Sundar. Sundar, the off-spin bowling all-rounder who was a member of the Asian Games gold medal winning team in Japan, has been released from the T20I squad to play Ranji Trophy for Tamil Nadu as part of preparation for the Tests against New Zealand, to be played in November. Ruturaj Gaikwad will lead the India A side in the 50-over matches scheduled to be played on October 6, 9, and 11 respectively. The first one-day match will now begin at 2 PM, with gates opening for fans at 1pm, while the second and three matches will begin at 9am. Sundar, the off-spin bowling all-rounder who was a member of the Asian Games gold medal winning team in Japan, has been released from the T20I squad to play Ranji Trophy for Tamil Nadu as part of preparation for the Tests against New Zealand, to be played in November. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
CRICKET | Saamy effusive in his praise for Hopes leadership qualities
Why Gavaskar was disappointed with Rohit's 92
Legendary Indian cricketer Sunil Gavaskar expressed his disappointment over Rohit Sharma missing a century against West Indies, wishing for Rohit to achieve more ODI hundreds than his age by the time he retires. Gavaskar also highlighted a significant shift in Rohit's batting approach since the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he now prioritizes preserving his wicket and converting starts into big scores, benefiting the team's scoring rate and shielding him from criticism.
Against all odds, Beed trio break into Maharashtra Ranji team
Three young cricketers from Beed, Saurabh Navale, Sachin Dhas, and Rishikesh Sonawane, have been selected for the Maharashtra Ranji Trophy squad, marking a historic first for the district. Their selection highlights their hard work and talent despite limited local facilities, inspiring future generations. Prithvi Shaw will captain the Maharashtra team.
Japan Showed How Asian Games Can Drive Crickets Growth In Emerging Nations, Says Abhiram Singh Yadav
Sano International Cricket Ground: Japans strategic leverage of the Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games to build broader momentum around cricket serves as an important blueprint for emerging nations to convert major multi-sport events into long-term development opportunities, said Abhiram Singh Yadav, Chairman of Persatuan Cricket Indonesia. The remarks from Abhiram, who serves as one of the three Associate Members on the ICC Chief Executives Committee (CEC), come after India retained their mens and womens cricket gold medals at the Korogi Sports Park. Pakistan secured the mens silver and womens bronze medals, while Sri Lanka claimed the womens silver and mens bronze medals. Congratulations to India on an outstanding double gold, and to Pakistan and Sri Lanka on their medal-winning campaigns. The competition itself was important for cricket, but there are also lessons from what happened around the Games. Jay Shah has consistently spoken about making cricket more inclusive and taking it to more countries. What deserves appreciation is that we are also seeing practical action around that vision, said Abhiram to IANS on Sunday. Before the Asian Games, Japan hosted mens T20 world champions India at the Sano International Cricket Ground, where the hosts came within two runs of causing a historic upset in a rain-curtailed five-over match. The landmark fixture drew a record-breaking crowd of 2,149 spectators - the highest attendance ever recorded for a cricket match in Japan, while tickets were sold out within hours of going on sale. That is an important example. Global leadership helped create the connection, and Japan then converted that opportunity into something real. It is one thing to talk about taking cricket into new markets; it is another to create the circumstances in which it can actually happen. What Japan did well was connect the pieces. The Asian Games, international cricket, facilities, sponsors, government relationships, media and community engagement were not treated as separate things. Together they created a bigger opportunity for the sport, added Abhiram. He further stated that the responsibility to create such opportunities should also not rest solely with Full Members. We cannot ask stronger nations to open doors for us and then stop opening doors for others when we become stronger ourselves. There should be a chain of opportunity. Full Members playing Associates, stronger Associates playing developing Associates, and developing countries becoming better hosts themselves. Rankings have an important competitive purpose, but they should not become walls between cricket nations. They tell us where we are today. They should not decide who we are willing to play tomorrow. Looking to the future, where cricket will be a part of 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, Abhiram signed off by calling for more matches to be organised between full members and associate nations. The next challenge is continuity. Japan had a major opportunity in front of it and found ways to create much more around that opportunity. That is the lesson for all of us. Full Members playing Associates, stronger Associates playing developing Associates, and developing countries becoming better hosts themselves. Rankings have an important competitive purpose, but they should not become walls between cricket nations. They tell us where we are today. They should not decide who we are willing to play tomorrow. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
From Chaos To Cheers: Aichi-Nagoya Bows Out, Leaving India With Memories, Medals And A Lesson
Nagoya Asian Games: The buses will stop running, accreditation cards will soon become souvenirs, and athletes rushing through airports will once again replace the colourful chaos of the past two weeks. The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games have come to an end. It was a simple farewell, much like the opening ceremony. There was music, colour, dancing, flags and athletes enjoying perhaps their first opportunity in days to simply breathe and take in what they had achieved. For India, it was a closing night filled with pride. Shooter Neeru Dhanda led the Indian contingent as flagbearer, carrying the Tricolour into the stadium after an exceptional campaign for the country. Yet her presence was just one part of a much bigger Indian story. India finished fourth in the medal table with 85 medals 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze. China dominated the Games, followed by Japan and South Korea, while Indias medal haul once again highlighted its growing presence across a wide range of sports. And some of the loudest celebrations came from a sport that needs little introduction in India cricket. Cricket once again proved that its place in the Asian Games is no longer merely symbolic. Indias mens and womens teams both returned with gold medals. The womens team set the tone, managing the pressure of being among the competitions biggest names and delivering when it mattered. The mens team followed with another gold, bringing Indias cricket campaign to a close with two gold medals. For Indian cricket, these were not just two more medals on a crowded tally. The Asian Games offered another reminder of how far the sport has reached beyond its traditional boundariesand of the weight the Indian jersey carries even outside the worlds biggest cricket tournaments. For some Indian athletes, however, there was no glamour attached to their journey. There were early morning starts, long journeys to venues and hours spent waiting for competition. Some travelled hundreds of kilometres simply to compete for a medal that may never make the front pages. Yet they kept showing up. That perhaps became the defining characteristic of Indias campaign. Archery produced a stunning five gold medals. Boxing added three golds, while wrestling contributed two. Hockey and kabaddi brought the familiar roar of team triumphs, with both mens and womens teams winning gold. Athletics again produced its share of drama, with Indias runners and field athletes battling through pressure and weather to add precious medals. Golf created history too, with Pranavi Urs winning Indias first womens individual Asian Games gold in the sport. Shooting remained one of Indias strongest medal-producing disciplines, while weightlifting, badminton, squash, rowing, table tennis, sailing, wushu, kurash, MMA, soft tennis and other sports also contributed to the final tally. The numbers tell one story. The athletes tell another. Behind Indias 21 gold, 27 silver and 37 bronze medals are stories of athletes who trained for years for a few minutes of competition. Some arrived as favourites and delivered. Others arrived almost unnoticed and left as household names. Japans difficult fortnight Away from the competition venues, Aichi-Nagoya was rarely free from criticism. Transport became a recurring frustration. So did the distances between venues. The absence of a traditional athletes village created its own challenges, while sparse crowds at some events did little to create the atmosphere usually associated with the Asian Games. For journalists, photographers and support staff, travelling between venues sometimes became an event in itself. Japan, a country known for precision and efficiency, was therefore under an unusually bright spotlight. But the Games also showed the other side of the story. Despite the problems, competitions were completed. Athletes competed. Medals were won. Records were broken. And, eventually, the closing ceremony arrived. That is perhaps the fairest way to judge a sporting event. Not everything went according to plan. But the sport survived the imperfections. And in the end, that is what the athletes will remember. Soon, the venues will become quiet again. The banners will come down. The temporary signs will disappear. The medal ceremonies will become photographs on athletes phones. For India, the 85 medals will remain in the record books. But the memories will be more personal. A victory celebrated with teammates. A defeat followed by a hug. A coach wiping away tears. A parent watching nervously from the stands. An athlete hearing the national anthem for the first time. And, on the final evening, a contingent walking together behind the Tricolour. A parent watching nervously from the stands. An athlete hearing the national anthem for the first time. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
The Indian team put forth an exceptional performance as the gold medal in the mens cricket final at the Asian Games 2026. The Men in Blue, led by Shreyas Iyer, defeated arch-rivals Pakistan in the summit clash of the tournament and clinched the gold medal in the process as well.
Rishabh Pant Reveals Secret To Victory As Rest Of India Win Irani Cup
Rest of India captain Rishabh Pant revealed that a conscious decision to adjust their bowling lengths and hit a fuller line in the second innings paid off as the side thrashed Jammu and Kashmir by 167 runs to win the Irani Cup on Sunday.
PIX: Neeru Dhanda Leads India At Asian Games 2026 Closing
Indian trap shooter Neeru Dhanda, who secured two gold medals and a silver, served as India's flag-bearer at the closing ceremony of the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya, marking a historic campaign for the country.
Kainat Imtiaz retires from internationals to become match referee
She decided to follow in her mother Saleema Imtiaz's footsteps to become a match official
Avishka Fernando recalled to Sri Lanka's ODI side for tri-series in Pakistan
Spin-bowling allrounder Sahan Arachchige took the spot of the injured Wanindu Hasaranga
Irani Cup: Plan to bowl fuller in second innings paid off, says Rest of India captain Pant
Digital Desk | Srinagar, Oct 4 (IANS) Rest of India captain Rishabh Pant revealed that a conscious decision to adjust their bowling lengths and hit a fuller line in the second innings paid off as the side thrashed Jammu and Kashmir by 167 runs to win the Irani Cup here on Sunday. After conceding a 41-run first-innings lead to Jammu and Kashmir, the Ranji Trophy champions, Rest of India produced a devastating post-lunch performance on day four, led by pacer Mukesh Kumar's 6-33, to bundle them out for a meagre 111 in pursuit of 279. Pant, who was down with fever and didnt take the field on Sunday, admitted that the bowlers had strayed from their initial strategy during J&K's first essay but praised the group for making the required tactical course corrections when it mattered the most. Definitely, when you win, all the pain, all the fatigue goes away for sure. Mostly the plan was to bowl fuller in the first innings. That was the conversation we had with the bowlers that we were like, we would back up the length. That was something we wanted to correct in the second innings because we knew our bowlers were really good, but the problem was the first innings we bowled too much back of the length, and we corrected that and bowled fuller and fuller in the second innings, Pant said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Pant, who turned 29 on Sunday, noted that executing the plans bring immense satisfaction, especially after the initial frustration of falling behind early in the contest. See, definitely the plan was fuller on the stump. Obviously you will get disappointed because when you're not sticking to the plan, but at the same time, when you come up with a plan and you stick to it and you can see things happening, it's lovely to see. Pant was also effusive in his praise for young batter Ravichandran Smaran, whose twin knocks of 68 and a brilliant second-innings 135 rescued Rest of India from perilous situation to set up the match in their favour. Today all the pieces fell in place, but at the same time, you know, like you mentioned, Smaran, the way he played in both innings, I think it was outstanding innings, especially we were under pressure, especially in the second innings the way he played, it was outstanding, concluded Pant.
Mukesh, Akash Deep shine as Rest of India win Irani Trophy
Rest of India defeated reigning Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir by 167 runs to clinch the Irani Cup, with pacers Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep sharing nine wickets in a sensational bowling performance.
Irani Cup: Age-group cricket experience helped me stay calm under pressure, says Smaran
Digital Desk | Srinagar, Oct 4 (IANS) Player of the Match Ravichandran Smaran attributed his match-winning composure to hit a match-winning 135 in the Irani Cup clash against Jammu & Kashmir to his extensive experience of playing age-group domestic cricket, adding that treating every game equally helped him deliver under pressure. With his parents and childhood coach Syed Zabiulla in attendance at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium, left-handed batter Smaran was the standout performer for Rest of India, scoring 68 and 135 to rescue his side from precarious situations in both innings against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir. His second-innings century, alongside a crucial 113-run ninth-wicket partnership with Mukesh Choudhary, set J&K a target of 279, which eventually proved well beyond their reach as team Rest of India sealed a 167-run win to claim their 31st Irani Cup title. I think playing similar knocks a lot in back home in Karnataka, in the under-23s as well and some experience from there comes into when I went over here to bat. Obviously Mukesh was there with me, and he also played a very important part in that partnership. So I'm glad that we could get the win, Smaran said at the post-match presentation ceremony. Despite the magnitude of the occasion and the high-stakes match situation, Smaran revealed that he consciously avoided playing the occasion in mind. I mean, I don't think of it as a big game. I just treat every game the same and look to give my best each and every time I step out there. I'm glad that on two big occasions I could contribute to the team's success and we ended up on the winning side, he said. Asked about whether his strategy shifted as the match was in balance, Smaran noted that he maintained a positive approach throughout to keep the pressure on the opposition bowlers. I think nothing much changed. The first innings also my approach was the same. It was just to play positive cricket and put pressure back on the bowlers and the second innings also I did it the same and I'm glad that everyone could chip in with some runs and we could put a decent total on board to defend in the fourth innings, he added. When asked about a broadcast graphic that highlighted his scoring efficiency outside the off-stump, Smaran, who will captain Karnataka in their Ranji Trophy opening game against Andhra in Vijayawada on October 11, acknowledged that playing to his natural strengths was key to his boundary-scoring options. I just noticed it as I was batting. I mean, I really didn't notice it when I was batting. But I think probably outside off is my strength and anything that was loose outside off, I put it away for a boundary and I think that's the way the game goes, he concluded.
Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep Shine As Rest Of India Beat J&K To Lift Irani Cup
India pacers Mukesh Kumar and Akash Deep shared nine wickets between them as Rest of India swatted aside reigning Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir by 167 runs on the fourth day to clinch the Irani Cup in Srinagar on Sunday.
3rd ODI: 'It Was Important For Me To Get Some Batting Time,' Says Rahul On His Century
Cricket World Cup: KL Rahul said his unbeaten 129 in the third ODI against the West Indies was as much about gaining valuable time in the middle as it was about the runs, with India using the bilateral series to sharpen their plans for the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup 2027. Speaking after Indias 2-1 series win, Rahul said the long innings was important as he continues to work on the demands of batting in the middle order ahead of next years global tournament. Rahuls century came in a match India eventually lost as the West Indies chased down 352, denying the visitors a series clean sweep. Despite that disappointment, the wicketkeeper-batter saw value in spending an extended period at the crease, particularly after limited opportunities to construct a long ODI innings from the middle order earlier this year. Happy to have scored 129 runs but disappointed that we couldnt clean sweep the series. Had we done that, then the happiness level would have been at the peak. Nonetheless, I wanted to spend more time with the bat out there in the middle and the last time I really got to bat for a long duration in ODI cricket, in the middle-order was in early January this year against New Zealand, and since then I havent really got a lot of time to play a long innings. And next year is a big one, with the World Cup starting in October, so its important for me to get valuable batting time because off the field Im trying a few things and I want to test that in the game. And only then will you know whether the work that youre putting behind the scenes is working or not, or what I need to do differently. So yeah, it was important for me to get some batting time, so Im happy about that, Rahul told JioStar. The innings also offered Rahul an opportunity to work on one of the more demanding aspects of his current role. Having spent much of his career at the top of the order, the batter has had to adapt to conditions that can become increasingly difficult for middle-order players as an ODI innings progresses. He pointed specifically to the behaviour of the older ball and the difficulties it can create for batters attempting to attack in the final overs. Its very different, but Ive been doing this role for the last 6-7 years. In the last year and a half, since the ball change rule has happened, its been very different. Its not been easy to get 80-90 in the last 10 overs. The balls been getting reverse swing, and even in this game, once the ball got old and soft, and started to reverse swing, as a batter you dont feel confident enough to take on the long-on and deep mid-wicket fielder if its a big boundary on that side. Ive always batted top of the order, and I like the hard ball coming onto me, I can use the pace. So thats something Ive been working on, trying to play with softer, older balls and being able to hit sixes with that. So, thats something Ive worked on. I constantly try to get better within my own game, understand my role, understand what a number five and number six batter has to do to consistently put up performances for the team, he added. The 2027 World Cup remains more than a year away, but Rahul said the current series are already providing the match situations needed to test Indias plans and personnel. All these series on the road to the World Cup are a good opportunity to get some game time in the middle. We dont want to go too far away from the plan but also experiment a little bit as a batting unit. The goal so far has been about can we score 330-340 while batting first, but were seeing that 340s and 350s get chased down very easily in one-day cricket. So how can batters, once set, keep pressing on and get 370s and 380s, or push for 400 on a given day. The 2027 World Cup remains more than a year away, but Rahul said the current series are already providing the match situations needed to test Indias plans and personnel. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
'I was disappointed': Sunil Gavaskar weighs in on Rohit Sharma missing out on 36th ODI century
The Indian team took on the West Indies in the third and final ODI of the ongoing series. The two sides met in New Chandigarh for the clash on October 3rd, and the Windies managed...
Sri Lanka Drop Charith Asalanka For Pakistan ODI Tri-series, Avishka, Sahan Recalled
The Sri Lanka ODI: Sri Lanka have named their squad for the ODI tri-series in Pakistan, featuring the hosts and England, and have dropped former captain Charith Asalanka. Asalanka, who was the vice-captain for the white-ball series against England, had scores of 1, 11 and 7 during the one-dayers and has faced the axe. Meanwhile, Avishka Fernando and all-rounder Sahan Arachchige have been recalled in the squad for the ODI tri-series that begins on October 18 in Rawalpindi and runs till October 31. They come in place of Asalanka and the injured Wanindu Hasaranga, who is out due to the hamstring injury he picked up during the England tour. Asalanka was part of the leadership group for the England tour, being the vice-captain. The 29-year-old led the T20I team in the absence of regular skipper Kusal Mendis, who missed out due to a hamstring injury. He was also in line to lead them in the ODIs, but Mendis made a return. In England, Asalanka made a return to the T20Is after being sidelined for six months, with his last outing coming in the 2026 World Cup. Asalanka was also removed as ODI captain in May 2026 but was brought back into the leadership group for the England series. He now misses out on the ODIs. This removal follows Asalanka's exclusion from the T20I squad for the Pakistan series, which begins on October 9. The Sri Lanka ODI squad remains unchanged otherwise from the 1-2 ODI series defeat to England. Pathum Nissanka and Dushmantha Chameera are in the side despite their fitness concerns. Nissanka was ruled out of the Pakistan T20Is, and the SLC confirmed that he will travel with the side only if declared fit. Chameera was picked for the T20Is subject to fitness clearance. This removal follows Asalanka's exclusion from the T20I squad for the Pakistan series, which begins on October 9. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Mukesh Kumar, Smaran hand Rest of India the Irani Cup
Seven wickets fell in a manic hour post-lunch as Rest of India secured a 167-run win against Jammu
I Want Rohit To Have More ODI Tons Than His Age: Gavaskar
ODI World Cup: Sunil Gavaskar has revealed why Rohit Sharmas dismissal for 92 in Indias third ODI against the West Indies left him disappointed, saying the former India captain could potentially finish his international career after the 2027 ODI World Cup and that he would like Rohit to retire with more ODI hundreds than his age. Rohits 92 came during Indias 2-1 series victory, with the West Indies winning the final match by successfully chasing 352 on the back of captain Shai Hopes unbeaten 162. Gavaskar believes there is a special significance in a batter having more international hundreds than his age at the time of retirement, and he wants Rohit to reach that milestone. The reason I was disappointed with Rohit getting out on 92 is because he didnt get a hundred and he might possibly quit international cricket after the end of the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup 2027. And at that particular point of time, when he decides to call it a day, I personally would like Rohit to have more ODI hundreds than his age. Had he gotten a century in the third ODI, he would have moved closer to achieving that feat with his 36th hundred, Gavaskar told JioStar. For me, its a special thing when a players hundreds outnumber his age at retirement. It shows the kind of career they have had and the standard they have kept for so many years. That is why I really want Rohit to reach that mark. In my last year of international cricket, I wanted to get as many Test centuries as my age, and I got out in the 90s thrice. If Id got those hundreds, then my centuries would have matched the age of my retirement, which was 38, he added. Gavaskars argument also comes against the backdrop of a Rohit batting approach that has evolved since the 2023 ODI World Cup. While the opener was known for taking the attack to the opposition from the very beginning of an innings during that tournament, Gavaskar feels there is now greater recognition of the value of remaining at the crease. A slight change has appeared in the batting template of Rohit that he himself set as the captain for the 2023 ODI World Cup, where he was going bang-bang from the first ball, irrespective of the possibility of getting out sooner. Now he recognises that his wicket is valuable. In that 2023 World Cup, he got the team off to great starts, but hes not a batsman who will score just 30-40 runs. Gavaskars argument also comes against the backdrop of a Rohit batting approach that has evolved since the 2023 ODI World Cup. While the opener was known for taking the attack to the opposition from the very beginning of an innings during that tournament, Gavaskar feels there is now greater recognition of the value of remaining at the crease. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sunil Gavaskar Disappointed With Rohit Sharma Despite Scoring 92, Refuses To Hide Frustration
Sunil Gavaskar wasn't happy with Rohit Sharma's 92 in the third ODI against West Indies. He has set a retirement target for the Hitman.
