2nd Test: Unlike Kolkata, This Guwahati Wicket Demands Patience And Consistent Pressure, Says Dale Steyn

With South Africa: With South Africa reaching 247/6 at stumps on the first day of the second and final Test of the series against India on Saturday, former Proteas pacer Dale Steyn said the team will be a bit disappointed by losing two wickets towards the end of the day. Having crossed 200 for the loss of four wickets in the final session, South Africa lost Wiaan Mulder (13) and Tony de Zorzi (28) in quick succession as the Indian bowlers fought back. I believe South Africa will be relatively pleased with their position, although theyll be a bit disappointed about losing two wickets towards the end of the day. The new ball came into play, and India were able to break a key partnership of around 40 runs. Had South Africa lost three or four wickets instead, they would have been very happy. Unlike the Kolkata pitch, where wickets fell frequently, this Guwahati wicket demands patience and consistent pressure. India bowled with discipline, maintaining good lines and lengths. When opportunities arose, they capitalised well, supported by excellent catches from Rishabh Pant, JioStar expert Dale Steyn said on Cricket Live coverage. Steyn also highlighted the partnership between de Zorzi and Senuran Muthusamy, who came into the playing XI for this match and is batting on 25 not out at the end of Day One, and said the two batted responsibly as they added 45 runs for the fifth wicket. The partnership between de Zorzi and Muthusamy was very solid. I was a bit surprised to see Muthusamy promoted ahead of Verreynne, but the two batted responsibly and put together a strong stand of 45 runs off 83 balls. Tony de Zorzi might be a bit frustrated, especially taking the new ball late in the day when there was uncertainty about whether play would continue. Losing a wicket shortly afterward can be disheartening, said Steyn. Tony de Zorzi probably expected more swing from Siraj, so he may be annoyed at the shot that got him out. South Africa might have preferred to be five down, but thats cricket the batsmen at the crease now must seize the opportunity. Batting under such pressure is challenging, and sometimes bowling in the right areas makes the job easier, he added. The partnership between de Zorzi and Muthusamy was very solid. I was a bit surprised to see Muthusamy promoted ahead of Verreynne, but the two batted responsibly and put together a strong stand of 45 runs off 83 balls. Tony de Zorzi might be a bit frustrated, especially taking the new ball late in the day when there was uncertainty about whether play would continue. Losing a wicket shortly afterward can be disheartening, said Steyn. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The leftarm wrist-spinner returned figures of 3-48, while Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja took a wicket each as India got rewarded for their persistence by picking four wickets in the final session. On a good red soil batting pitch, all South African batters got good starts, but none went on to a halfcentury. Article Source: IANS

2nd Test: Kuldeep Picks Three As Persistent India Keep South Africa To 247/6 (ld)

Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Kuldeep Yadavs threewicket haul became the standout bowling effort on the opening day of the firstever Test at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium, as a persistent India restricted South Africa to 247/6 in 81.5 overs before bad light forced stumps to arrive early on day one. The leftarm wrist-spinner returned figures of 3-48, while Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja took a wicket each as India got rewarded for their persistence by picking four wickets in the final session. On a good red soil batting pitch, all South African batters got good starts, but none went on to a halfcentury. Each time the batters looked to accelerate, India were sharp enough to seize the opportunity and pick scalps, thus ensuring the visitors never fully ran away with opening day honours. With South Africa now into their lower order, India will aim to wrap up the innings quickly on Day Two. In the morning, after electing to bat first, Aiden Markram and Ryan Rickelton ensured South Africa had a steady start against new ball bowlers Bumrah and Siraj. The duo got decent carry and swing, though two sets of byes went against wicketkeeper and skipper Rishabh Pants name. Though the atmosphere was subdued at Indias newest Test venue due to sparse attendance, which was in complete contrast to the wellattended Eden Gardens Test last week, Bumrah and Siraj continued to keep the openers in check. Markram finally opened his account with a solid punch off Bumrah for four, before surviving a scare on four when Rahul dropped his catch at slip. With Siraj bowling touch too full and wide, Markram and Rickelton scored a few boundaries off him, as South Africa reached 34/0 at the first drinks break. Nitish Kumar Reddy struggled for consistency -- drifting onto the pads too often and conceding boundaries to Markram, while Kuldeep and Washington Sundar found some turn and bounce, though Rickelton got streaky boundaries off them. Captain Pants decision to bring Bumrah late in the session to deliver the breakthrough paid off when he had Markram chopping on to his stumps for 38, and Rahul, who had earlier spilt a chance of him, had a smile full of relief on his face as India finally had a wicket before tea break. The second session began with a bang for India as Yadav got a flighted delivery to drift in before spinning away, and the outside edge on Rickeltons attempted drive was safely pouched by Pant, as South Africa suddenly lost both of their set batters in quick succession. After some quiet time, Temba Bavuma began by thumping Kuldeep over mid-on for four, before Tristan Stubbs got an outside edge off Siraj going for a boundary. Bavuma took on Siraj by pulling and punching him for successive boundaries, before Stubbs danced down the pitch to loft Kuldeep over long-on for six. Though Kuldeep and Jadeja tested the duo, it was of little effect as Bavuma, who survived an lbw appeal off the latter and forced India to burn a review on him, and Stubbs remained rock solid. With little assistance on offer for the spinners, India reverted to pace from both ends, and that didnt result in a change of fortunes as runs continued to flow. India had a bit of a scare when Siraj suffered a knock on his knee during a midpitch collision with Stubbs, who was rushing through for a quick single. Stubbs was the first player to check on Siraj, before physio Kamlesh Jain came out with an ice pack to nurse the fast bowler. After two to three minutes of treatment, Siraj was back on his feet, and play resumed. The sparse crowd swelled marginally as the second session unfolded, with South Africa holding firm against disciplined Indian bowling. It was classic Test cricket, marked by resolute batting from Bavuma and Stubbs, as 74 runs came in the second session. India were rewarded for their persistence after lunch as Jadeja removed Bavuma, who fell for 41 off 92 balls, attempting to loft over extra cover but instead chipped to midoff. Bavumas dismissal ended his steady 84run stand with Stubbs. The breakthrough could have come earlier when Bavuma chanced a risky single in the second over after the lunch interval. But substitute fielder Devdutt Padikkal failed to gather cleanly at square leg, allowing Stubbs to escape. After India continued to bowl probing lines on a surface offering little assistance, Kuldeep managed to dismiss Stubbs for 49 when the batter looked to defend, but the delivery bounced a fraction more and held its line, with Rahul taking a sharp catch at first slip. South Africas inexperience in Indian conditions was further exposed when Kuldeep lured Wiaan Mulder into playing a big shot on a generously tossedup delivery that dipped, and with not much elevation in the shot, it made for a straightforward catch to midoff. For a short while, Indias disciplined bowling was quelled by Tony de Zorzi and Senuran Muthusamy, hitting seven boundaries between themselves. But Mohammed Siraj struck with the first ball of his spell with the second new ball to dismiss de Zorzi, thanks to a brilliant catch from captain Rishabh Pant diving to his left to complete a superb take with both hands in front of first slip. The dismissal provided India with a timely lift late to end day one on a high. South Africas inexperience in Indian conditions was further exposed when Kuldeep lured Wiaan Mulder into playing a big shot on a generously tossedup delivery that dipped, and with not much elevation in the shot, it made for a straightforward catch to midoff. For a short while, Indias disciplined bowling was quelled by Tony de Zorzi and Senuran Muthusamy, hitting seven boundaries between themselves. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa 247/6 in 81.5 overs (Tristan Stubbs 49, Temba Bavuma 41; Kuldeep Yadav 3-48, Ravindra Jadeja 1-30) against India Article Source: IANS

Sri Lanka bat and hand effective debut to Viyaskanth; Shaheen misses out for Pakistan

Sri Lanka made three changes, Pakistan made just the one

Smith stalls talk on Head's permanent role as Ashes opener

Stand-in captain backs Khawaja to bounce back from back spasm; hopeful of Cummins return at Brisbane

Geyer shines on debut as Renshaw gets pink-ball test

The 22-year-old quick took four wickets on debut for Queensland in the day-night game at the Gabba

2nd Test: Pleased That The Indian Bowlers Applied Consistent Pressure After Lunch, Says Anil Kumble

Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Former India skipper Anil Kumble said he was satisfied with Indias bowling efforts on the opening day of the second Test against South Africa at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium in Guwahati, Assam, noting that the bowlers maintained consistent pressure after lunch and forced South Africa to take risks. Leftarm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav returned with figures of 3-48, while Jasprit Bumrah, Mohammed Siraj, and Ravindra Jadeja took a wicket each as India got rewarded for their persistence by picking four wickets in the final session and kept South Africa to 247/6 in 81.5 overs on day ones play. I'm pleased that the Indian bowlers applied consistent pressure after lunch, resulting in an early wicket, which made taking six wickets in the session a realistic goal. On a challenging pitch like this, it hasn't been easy to score runs, and India did not offer any loose deliveries. This disciplined bowling gave India a genuine chance to claim those wickets. Overall, India should be fairly satisfied with their performance today. While 247 runs for six wickets is a decent score for South Africa on day one, India can feel positive about the job they've done so far, said Kumble on JioStar. He further reflected on a competitive opening day of Test cricket in Guwahati, hosting its inaugural Test match. It was a fine day of Test cricket, with batters needing to focus and earn their runs, while the bowlers had to work equally hard for wickets. Both India and South Africa showed great discipline. This disciplined bowling gave India a genuine chance to claim those wickets. Overall, India should be fairly satisfied with their performance today. While 247 runs for six wickets is a decent score for South Africa on day one, India can feel positive about the job they've done so far, said Kumble on JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Overall, the venue offered a positive atmosphere for a debut Test, with a good surface and an enthusiastic crowd. Hoping for even more fans tomorrow, he added. Article Source: IANS

2nd Test: A Bit Disappointing In The End There, No One Really Made It That Big, Says Stubbs

Barsapara Cricket Stadium: South Africa batter Tristan Stubbs admitted his side squandered the chance to be in a strong position on Day One of the second Test against India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium here on Saturday. On the first day, all South African batters in action failed to convert their starts into a substantial score and reached 247/6 in 81.5 overs before bad light forced stumps to arrive early on day one. Stubbs was looking good to get a fifty, but fell for 49 to left-arm wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav. I think it's a bit disappointing in the end there. I think all of us in the top six got in, and no ones really made that big one. I actually think I prefer batting at 3 than anywhere else. It (pitch) played quite nicely, but I think they bowled quite well. It was quite hard to score. But it wasnt free-flowing. You felt comfortable, but the scoreboard wasnt going anywhere. So I thought they bowled quite well, said Stubbs to broadcasters at the end of day ones play. Speaking about Kuldeep, who picked 3-48, Stubbs said he still cant believe that the spinner dismissed him. Stubbs, along with Kuldeep and KL Rahul, who grabbed his catch at first slip, have been teammates at Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. Every time he (Kuldeep) has come on, hes sort of gone a bit slow with the first ball, and I managed to work his first ball of the spell. If anything, he just beat me with the drift. I can't believe he got me out, and KL caught it! That makes your life that much more difficult, he said. Speaking about Kuldeep, who picked 3-48, Stubbs said he still cant believe that the spinner dismissed him. Stubbs, along with Kuldeep and KL Rahul, who grabbed his catch at first slip, have been teammates at Delhi Capitals (DC) in the IPL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think thatll be the game plan. Just extend the first innings for as long as we can. Hopefully, the guys who come in now dont give it away and get 40s, and someone can get 100. Article Source: IANS

Patterson shines between the rain for New South Wales

Jackson Bird was subbed into the game when Aidan O'Connor suffered a head knock

2nd Test: Kuldeep Picks Three As Persistent India Keep South Africa To 247/6

Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Kuldeep Yadav led the way with figures of 3-48 as a persistent India reduced South Africa to 247/6 in 81.5 overs before bad light brought an early end to Day One in the second and final Test of the series at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium here on Saturday. India struck late to dismiss Tony de Zorzi, which capped off a disciplined effort that ensured South Africas batters, despite all getting starts, failed to convert any of them into a halfcentury. Having won the toss on a good red soil batting pitch, South Africa were unable to fully capitalise on the opportunity, leaving India the happier side at stumps. India were rewarded for their persistence after lunch as Ravindra Jadeja removed Temba Bavuma, who fell for 41 off 92 balls, attempting to loft over extra cover but instead chipping to midoff. Bavumas dismissal ended his steady 84run stand with Tristan Stubbs. The breakthrough could have come earlier when Bavuma chanced a risky single in the second over after the lunch interval. But substitute fielder Devdutt Padikkal failed to gather cleanly at square leg, allowing Stubbs to escape. After India continued to bowl probing lines on a surface offering little assistance, Kuldeep managed to dismiss Stubbs for 49 when the batter looked to defend, but the delivery bounced a fraction more and held its line, with KL Rahul taking a sharp catch at first slip. South Africas inexperience in Indian conditions was further exposed when Kuldeep lured Wiaan Mulder into playing a big shot on a generously tossedup delivery that dipped, and with not much elevation in the shot, it made for a straightforward catch to midoff. For a short while, Indias disciplined bowling was quelled by de Zorzi and Senuran Muthusamy, hitting seven boundaries between them. But Mohammed Siraj struck with the first ball of his spell with the second new ball to dismiss de Zorzi, thanks to a brilliant catch from captain Rishabh Pant diving to his left to complete a superb take with both hands in front of first slip. The dismissal provided India with a timely lift late to end day one on a high. South Africas inexperience in Indian conditions was further exposed when Kuldeep lured Wiaan Mulder into playing a big shot on a generously tossedup delivery that dipped, and with not much elevation in the shot, it made for a straightforward catch to midoff. For a short while, Indias disciplined bowling was quelled by de Zorzi and Senuran Muthusamy, hitting seven boundaries between them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa 247/6 in 81.5 overs (Tristan Stubbs 49, Temba Bavuma 41; Kuldeep Yadav 3-48, Ravindra Jadeja 1-30) against India Article Source: IANS

Head: 'It's not going to get much bigger than this'

Moved up to open for Australia's chase, the left hander produced one of the more remarkable innings in Test history

'Shellshocked' Stokes hails Head for 'knocking the wind' out of England

England captain says England will lick their wounds and try to come back stronger at Brisbane

Ashes: Head, Starc Lead Australia To Eight-wicket Win In Perth

Ashes Test: England slumped to a heavy defeat in the opening Ashes Test as Travis Heads explosive century powered Australia to a remarkable comeback victory in Perth on Saturday. In the first Ashes match to finish inside two days since 1921, Head tore apart Englands bowling with a breathtaking 69-ball hundred - the second-fastest in Ashes history. His 123 carried Australia to their target of 205 in just 28.2 overs, securing an eight-wicket win and a 1-0 lead in the five-Test series. The turnaround was dramatic. Australia had conceded a 40-run first-innings deficit and were effectively 105 behind when England moved to 65-1 shortly after lunch, only for the match to unravel for the visitors. Mitchell Starcs 10-wicket haul, combined with a series of poor English shots and a bold Australian call to elevate Head up the order, deepened Englands long-running struggles in the country - they have now lost 14 and drawn two of 16 Tests in Australia since 2011. A collapse of six wickets for 39 runs in 11 overs - including a brutal spell of 3-0 in six balls that removed Ollie Pope, Harry Brook and Joe Root - left England reeling. Despite a brief counterattack from Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse, who added a fifty stand, England were dismissed for 164 in 34.4 overs, losing their final nine wickets for 99. Chasing what would be the highest total of the match, Australia instead romped home as Head produced one of the great Ashes knocks. Englands bowlers, so dominant the previous day, were dismantled, while the Perth crowd revelled in the one-sided finish. A collapse of six wickets for 39 runs in 11 overs - including a brutal spell of 3-0 in six balls that removed Ollie Pope, Harry Brook and Joe Root - left England reeling. Despite a brief counterattack from Gus Atkinson and Brydon Carse, who added a fifty stand, England were dismissed for 164 in 34.4 overs, losing their final nine wickets for 99. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: England 172 (Harry Brook 52; Mitchell Starc 7-58) & 164 (Gus Atkinson 37; Scott Boland 4-33) lost to Australia 132 (Alex Carey 26; Ben Stokes 5-23) & 205/2 (Travis Head 123; Brydon Carse 2-44) by eight wickets. Article Source: IANS

Travis Head's 69-Ball Ton Powers Australia To Victory In Ashes Opener

Makeshift opener Travis Head smacked an explosive 69-ball century to power Australia to victory in a high-octane first Ashes Test on Saturday as England meekly surrendered in the Perth Stadium cauldron. Chasing 205 to win, Head slammed 123 as the hosts romped home on day two by eight wickets in an electric start to the five-match series. Marnus Labuschagne was not-out 51 and Steve Smith on two. Wow, what a couple of days. It's been unbelievable, said Head. The emotions are pretty high. They (England) were seriously good out there yesterday and started to drag it back, so we knew we couldn't afford to let the game slip. To be able to contribute the way I did, it feels pretty special. Head's heroics came on the back of a blistering spell from marauding pace pair Scott Boland and Mitchell Starc after lunch that sparked a stunning England collapse. The tourists were cruising at 65-1 and building an ominous second-innings lead, but Boland and Starc left them reeling with four wickets in as many overs. A ruthless Boland accounted for Ben Duckett (28), Ollie Pope (33) and Harry Brook (0) in the space of 11 balls, then two deliveries later Starc sent Joe Root packing for eight. When Starc removed skipper Ben Stokes (2), England were flailing at 88-6 and the veteran paceman had bagged a 10-wicket haul for only the third time after his first innings 7-58, a career-best. England were partially rescued by a crucial 50-run stand between Gus Atkinson (37) and Brydon Carse (20) before being rolled for 164 at tea. Little bit shell-shocked there, said Stokes. Travis Head was phenomenal, jeez that was some knock. We tried 3-4 different plans there, he was going like a train. The runs were coming through quickly, he is really hard to stop when he plays like that. When they returned, Usman Khawaja again failed to show as opener as he battles back stiffness, with Australia signalling their intent by sending in Head. Head, who has opened nine times previously in Test cricket, quickly got into his destructive rhythm, crunching some lovely boundaries including big sixes off Carse and Mark Wood. He made it look easy, making a mockery of the struggles other batsmen had on the bouncy track, bringing up his half-century in 36 balls, passing 4,000 Test runs in the process. Looking to emulate him, debutant Jake Weatherald also went on the attack, but it cost him, out for 23 after a mistimed pull shot was taken by Ben Duckett off Carse. An unruffled Head kept the pressure on, slamming four boundaries in one Stokes over and sending a six back over the head of Jofra Archer on his way to a 10th Test ton. He eventually fell to Carse going for another big hit. - Starc stars - Australia resumed on a paltry 123-9 in their first innings and added just nine before Nathan Lyon was removed by Carse for four to leave England with a 40-run advantage. Stokes was the star of the show, claiming 5-23 off just 36 balls to give England a golden opportunity to win a Test in Australia for the first time since the 2010-11 series. They had been all out for 172 at the hands of Starc on day one. Australia were banking on the 35-year-old to emulate his exploits in the second innings and he whipped the sold-out Perth Stadium crowd into a frenzy when he removed Zak Crawley in his first over. The veteran consigned Crawley to a pair, diving to his left in an incredible feat of athleticism for a memorable caught-and-bowled. Duckett and Pope settled in, safely reaching lunch at 59-1. But Scott Boland began to find his radar when they returned. Duckett edged to Steve Smith in the slips then Pope did the same to wicketkeeper Alex Carey before Brook repeated the feat to Khawaja. After a first innings duck Joe Root was desperate for runs, but he was no match for the relentless Starc, dragging a thick edge onto his stumps to cap a miserable start to the series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brendan Doggett then cleaned up Jamie Smith, (15), Carse and Archer (5).

Travis Head's 69-ball ton secures remarkable two-day win for Australia

England went from a position of strength to a calamitous eight-wicket defeat on day two

Henry, Chapman Star As New Zealand Seal 3-0 Clean Sweep

Only South Africa: New Zealands four-pronged pace attack dismantled West Indies fragile batting yet again, completing a 3-0 clean sweep in Hamilton and stretching their dominant home streak to 11 straight bilateral ODI series victories. Only South Africa (17) have achieved more consecutive bilateral series wins than New Zealand's 11 at home in men's ODIs. Without the injured Daryl Mitchell, the No.1-ranked ODI batter, New Zealand were made to fight in their chase. They slipped to 70 for 4 after losing their top three inside 11 overs and Tom Latham cheaply. But Mark Chapman and Michael Bracewell steadied the innings, countering the threat posed by Matthew Forde and Jayden Seales with the new ball. Chapman struck 64 off 63 balls, while Bracewell provided firm support in a 75-run partnership off just 48 deliveries for the fifth wicket. Their stand kept left-arm fingerspinner Khary Pierre - playing in place of the injured Romario Shepherd - out of the attack entirely, turning him into a specialist fielder. Although Chapman and captain Mitchell Santner fell close to the finish line, Bracewell and Zak Foulkes closed out the chase with almost 20 overs to spare. Earlier, West Indies left nearly 14 overs unused after opting to bat. Matt Henry led New Zealands attack with 4 for 43, while Kyle Jamieson, Jacob Duffy and Foulkes - replacing the injured Nathan Smith - shared four wickets. Without Shepherd, West Indies lacked depth. Henry triggered the collapse in the powerplay by removing Ackeem Auguste and Keacy Carty in the fifth over. Auguste fell for 17 off 19 balls, while Carty chopped on for a duck. Jamieson then dismissed opener John Campbell for 26 off 24 balls, with only Campbell and Roston Chase managing scores above 25. Shai Hopes promising start ended on 16 when Foulkes had him caught down the leg side, leaving West Indies at 77 for 4. New Zealands quicks continued to pound the pitch with cross-seam and scrambled-seam deliveries. Rutherford, Chase and Shamar Springer were all bounced out. Chase suffered a blow to the hand and required treatment before Henry removed him for good, having him top-edge to extra-cover. Pierre and Seales offered brief resistance with an 18-run last-wicket stand before Henry wrapped up the innings. Santner also contributed with the ball, removing Justin Greaves and Forde in his first over. Shai Hopes promising start ended on 16 when Foulkes had him caught down the leg side, leaving West Indies at 77 for 4. New Zealands quicks continued to pound the pitch with cross-seam and scrambled-seam deliveries. Rutherford, Chase and Shamar Springer were all bounced out. Chase suffered a blow to the hand and required treatment before Henry removed him for good, having him top-edge to extra-cover. Pierre and Seales offered brief resistance with an 18-run last-wicket stand before Henry wrapped up the innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: West Indies 161 in 36.2 overs (Roston Chase 38; Matt Henry 4-43) lost to New Zealand 162/6 in 30.3 overs (Mark Chapman 64; Michael Bracewell 40 not out; Jayden Seales 2-35) by four wickets. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: Have Half A Chance Of Playing The Next Game, Says Cummins

Injured Australia: Injured Australia captain Pat Cummins has said that he could return for the second Ashes Test at The Gabba starting on December 4. Cummins missed the ongoing opening match in Perth due to a lower back injury and had been in doubt for the second fixture in Brisbane. Its feeling good. I had a couple of good sessions in Perth this week, so having a big day where Id bowl around 10 overs then a couple of quieter day and then going again. Its on track and pulling up pretty well. (Im) half a chance for the next game. Ill have a couple more bowls and then there could be about two weeks before the next one the way this one is going. Im pretty hopeful and its probably better than it was a few weeks ago, said Cummins to broadcasters Kayo Sports during day twos play. Cummins return would provide a significant lift for Australia, with Josh Hazlewood already sidelined from the first two Tests due to a hamstring injury that threatens to rule him out of the entire five-match series. He also said a final decision on his fitness will be made closer to the second Test, but expressed optimism about taking the field and leading Australia at The Gabba. Itll be a collaboration between myself and the physios, the selectors and the doctors. Cummins return would provide a significant lift for Australia, with Josh Hazlewood already sidelined from the first two Tests due to a hamstring injury that threatens to rule him out of the entire five-match series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If Cummins is cleared to play at The Gabba, debutant fast bowler Brendan Doggett is expected to make way, despite an impressive first outing in the longer format, where he claimed five wickets. Article Source: IANS

India Thrash Australia To Reach Women's T20 World Cup For The Blind Final

T20 World Cup Cricket: India delivered a powerhouse performance at the iconic P. Sara Oval on Saturday, storming into the finals of the 1st Womens T20 World Cup Cricket for the Blind with a dominant nine-wicket win over Australia. The innings was anchored by Player of the Match Basanti Hansda, whose composure and class defined Indias chase. With a damp outfield after overnight showers, Indias decision to field first proved decisive. The bowling and fielding unit held Australia under tight control highlighted by skipper Deepikas brilliant run-out that shifted the momentum Indias way. Australias B2 batter Julie Neumann battled for 25 (28), while B3 players Chanakan Buakhao 34 (33) and Courtney Lewis 14 (14) kept the scoreboard moving, aided by 20 extras. Chasing with confidence and clarity, India turned the semi-final into a show of dominance. B3 spark Ganga Kadam set the rhythm with a fluent 41 (31). B2 star Basanti Hansda, who earned Player of the Match honours, anchored the innings with a superb 45 (39). B1 striker Karuna finished the job in style with an explosive 16 off just 5 balls. India sailed to 112, sealing a resounding nine-wicket win and booking their spot in Sundays grand finale. B3 spark Ganga Kadam set the rhythm with a fluent 41 (31). B2 star Basanti Hansda, who earned Player of the Match honours, anchored the innings with a superb 45 (39). Also Read: Live Cricket Score The tournament features six teams that played each other in a single round-robin format. India won all five of their matches and became the first team to secure a spot in the semi-finals. Article Source: IANS

2nd Test: Steady 74-run Stand Between Stubbs, Bavuma Takes South Africa To 156/2

Barsapara Cricket Stadium: A steady 74run stand between skipper Temba Bavuma and Tristan Stubbs took South Africa to 156/2 in 55 overs at lunch on day one of the second Test against India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Saturday. Kuldeep Yadav struck early after the interval to dismiss Ryan Rickelton, but Stubbs and Bavuma ensured there was no further damage with a composed unbroken stand. While Bavuma remained unbeaten on 36 from 86 deliveries, Stubbs was 32 not out off 82 balls. Bavuma and Stubbs began cautiously, taking time to assess the conditions before cashing in on anything loose to keep the scoreboard moving and ensure the visitors look well-placed to post a commanding score on a pitch which has offered true bounce and little assistance for the bowlers. The session began with a bang for India as Kuldeep Yadav got a flighted delivery to drift in before spinning away and the outside edge on Ryan Rickeltons attempted drive was safely pouched by Pant, as South Africa suddenly lost both of their set batters in quick succession. After some quiet time, Bavuma began by thumping Kuldeep over mid-on for four, before Stubbs got an outside edge off Siraj, going for a boundary. Bavuma took on Siraj by pulling and punching him for successive boundaries, before Stubbs danced down the pitch to loft Kuldeep over long-on for six. Though Kuldeep and Ravindra Jadeja tested the duo, it was of little effect as Bavuma, who survived an lbw appeal off the latter and forced India to burn a review on him, and Stubbs remained rock solid. With little assistance on offer for the spinners, India reverted to pace from both ends and that didnt result in change of fortunes as runs continued to flow. India had a bit of a scare when Mohammed Siraj suffered a knock on his knee during a midpitch collision with Stubbs, who was rushing through for a quick single. Stubbs was the first player to check on Siraj, before physio Kamlesh Jain came out with an ice pack to nurse the fast bowler. After two to three minutes of treatment, Siraj was back on his feet and play resumed. The sparse crowd swelled marginally as the second session unfolded, with South Africa holding firm against disciplined Indian bowling. It was classic Test cricket, marked by resolute batting from the visitors and relentless accuracy from the hosts' bowling attack. India had a bit of a scare when Mohammed Siraj suffered a knock on his knee during a midpitch collision with Stubbs, who was rushing through for a quick single. Stubbs was the first player to check on Siraj, before physio Kamlesh Jain came out with an ice pack to nurse the fast bowler. After two to three minutes of treatment, Siraj was back on his feet and play resumed. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 156/2 in 55 overs (Aiden Markram 38, Temba Bavuma 36 not out; Jasprit Bumrah 1-17, Kuldeep Yadav 1-27) against India. Article Source: IANS

Nitish Rana To Captain Delhi In 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, No Place For Digvesh Rathi

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Nitish Rana has been named as Delhis captain for the 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, while wrist-spinner Digvesh Rathi has missed out on selection for the competition slated to begin on November 26. Delhi have been placed in Elite Group D alongside Jharkhand, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Saurashtra, and Tripura, with all of their matches scheduled to take place in Ahmedabad. The team has won the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy only once - in the 201718 season under the captaincy of Pradeep Sangwan. This will be the first time Rana will turn out for Delhi in the ongoing domestic season after moving on from Uttar Pradesh and not featuring in the playing eleven for the first half of the Ranji Trophy, where the side was unable to win any matches. Rana, who will also turn out for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026 following his trade from Rajasthan Royals, hit scores of 134 not out, 45 not out, and 79 not out to help West Delhi Lions win the 2025 Delhi Premier League (DPL) title. Incidentally, during Qualifier 1 of DPL 2025, Rana was in an exchange of words with Rathi, which went viral online. Rathi had been one of the uncapped finds for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) in IPL 2025 picking 14 wickets at an economy rate of 7.59. But it seems that a not so bright DPL 2025 resulted in his omission from Delhis squad picked by the selection committee of Yashpal Singh, K. Bhaskar Pillai and Manu Nayar, with head coach Sarandeep Singh, CAC Chairman Vijay Dahiya and DDCA Secretary Ashok Sharma being present in the meeting. Veteran pacer Ishant Sharmas selection is subject to availability, with sources telling IANS that hes recovering from an injury and was present for rehab at the BCCI CoE facility in Bengaluru. Its the same case with senior fast bowler Navdeep Saini, who is also dealing with an injury issue that limited his participation in the Ranji Trophy. While all-rounder Harshit Rana is also subject to availability, it's more to do with him being in fray for selection in Indias upcoming white-ball games three ODIs and five T20Is - against South Africa. Opener Priyansh Arya and leg-spinner Suyash Sharma will join the Delhi side after India A's campaign in the Rising Asia Cup in Doha ended in a lame semi-final defeat to Bangladesh A. Veteran pacer Ishant Sharmas selection is subject to availability, with sources telling IANS that hes recovering from an injury and was present for rehab at the BCCI CoE facility in Bengaluru. Its the same case with senior fast bowler Navdeep Saini, who is also dealing with an injury issue that limited his participation in the Ranji Trophy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Delhi squad: Nitish Rana (captain), Priyansh Arya, Sarthak Ranjan, Ayush Badoni, Arpit Rana, Ayush Doseja, Mayank Rawat, Tejasvi (wk), Anuj Rawat (wk), Himmat Singh, Yash Dhull, Simarjeet Singh, Rahul Dagar, Yash Bhatia, Ankit Rajesh Kumar, Harsh Tyagi, Suyash Sharma, Prince Yadav, Money Grewal, Rohan Rana, Dhruv Kaushik, Aryan Rana and Vaibhav Kandpal. Article Source: IANS

'They've In Abundance': Jonty Rhodes Backs Virat, Rohit For 2027 ODI World Cup

ODI World Cup: Former South Africa cricketer Jonty Rhodes backed senior batters Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to continue playing till the 2027 ODI World Cup, saying that the duo have an abundance of experience and mental strength to play a pivotal role in the quadrennial showpiece. Both Virat and Rohit have announced their retirements from Test cricket earlier this year and only play in the ODI format for the country. Ahead of the ODI series against Australia, Rohit was also relieved of the ODI captaincy and was handed over to Shubman Gill. Amid all the developments, fans and veteran cricketers started speculating about their ODI career ahead, many hinting that the duo will not play further till the next ODI World Cup. However, Rhodes believes the senior pros should continue playing and keep producing runs for the country, adding their presence will come in handy for India in the ODI World Cup. And I get asked, it happened with Tendulkar, it happened with Dhoni. It's like the next bunch of guys, when should they retire? When should they play? It's up to them. I mean, they keep producing the runs. Then you've got to select them. They've got so much experience, Rhodes told IANS. And we know tournaments like a World Cup. It's not just about the talent that you have, but it's also about, you know, the sort of mental strength of players. So Kohli and Rohit certainly have that in abundance, he added. In last months three-match ODI series against Australia, Rohit struck a century in the final game as India won the match by nine wickets, while he also hit 73 in the second match of the series. He was also named Player of the Series for his brilliant performance with the bat. And we know tournaments like a World Cup. It's not just about the talent that you have, but it's also about, you know, the sort of mental strength of players. So Kohli and Rohit certainly have that in abundance, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The duo will next be seen in action in the upcoming three-match ODI series against South Africa, starting on November 30. Article Source: IANS

Smith given out after Real Time Snicko confusion; 'correct decision,' says Taufel

Jamie Smith started to walk off when he saw a murmur on graphic on the big screen, but stopped after the footage was slowed down, showing the spike appearing after the ball had passed the bat

2nd Test: Bumrah Dismisses Markram On Stroke Of Tea As SA Reach 82/1

Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah brought a long-awaited breakthrough for India by dismissing Aiden Markram on the stroke of tea, as South Africa reached 82/1 in 26.5 overs against India at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Saturday. Bumrah had created an opportunity earlier in the first session, but KL Rahul failed to hold on to a sharp chance at slip, giving Markram a life on four. But the right-handed opener eventually fell in the final over before the 20-minute tea break by chopping on to his stumps off Bumrah. Until that dismissal, Markram and Ryan Rickelton looked largely assured. It would be interesting to see if India, who toiled hard for the majority of the first session, will be able to capitalise on the breakthrough from Bumrah and gain an edge over the Proteas in the second session. In the morning, after electing to bat first on a fresh red soil pitch, Markram and Rickelton ensured South Africa had a steady start against new ball bowlers Bumrah and Mohammed Siraj. The duo got decent carry and swing, though two sets of byes went against wicketkeeper and skipper Rishabh Pants name. Though the atmosphere was subdued at Indias newest Test venue due to sparse attendance, which was in complete contrast to the wellattended Eden Gardens Test last week, Bumrah and Siraj continued to keep the openers in check. Markram finally opened his account with a solid punch off Bumrah for four, before surviving a dropped catch by Rahul at slip. With Siraj bowling touch too full and wide, Markram and Rickelton found a few boundaries off him, as South Africa reached 34/0 at the first drinks break. Nitish Kumar Reddy struggled for consistency - drifting onto the pads too often and conceding boundaries to Markram, while Kuldeep Yadav and Washington Sundar found some turn and bounce, though Rickelton got streaky boundaries off them. Though the atmosphere was subdued at Indias newest Test venue due to sparse attendance, which was in complete contrast to the wellattended Eden Gardens Test last week, Bumrah and Siraj continued to keep the openers in check. Markram finally opened his account with a solid punch off Bumrah for four, before surviving a dropped catch by Rahul at slip. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: South Africa 82/1 in 26.5 overs (Aiden Markram 38, Ryan Rickelton 35 not out; Jasprit Bumrah 1-7) against India. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: CA CEO Denies Link Between Khawajas Golf Session And Back Spasms

CA CEO: Cricket Australia (CA) chief executive Todd Greenberg has dismissed any co-relation between Usman Khawajas decision to play golf ahead of the ongoing first Ashes Test and the back spasms he suffered on day ones play. Khawaja, 38, was forced off the field late in Englands first innings on Friday, and although he did reenter the field before it ended, ICC regulations meant he had not spent sufficient time back on the field to be eligible to open the batting. As a result, Marnus Labuschagne was pushed up to open alongside debutant Jake Weatherald, with captain Steve Smith slotted in at number three. Khawaja eventually came in at number four, but made only two runs. On day two, Khawaja fielded through the overs without any discomfort. CA clarified that the spasms were a new injury for Khawaja, who turns 39 next month, and was unrelated to the golf sessions he featured in the run-up to the game. It (playing golf) has held him in good stead over the last couple of years. It's not uncommon for a lot of them to play golf a day prior. Did that correlate to any of the issues? I personally don't think so. Usman's a very seasoned campaigner, he knows his body well, and he knows how to get himself prepared for cricket. So I think that is drawing a long bow. A lot of people talk about cricket being played between the ears. So getting some time away from being in your hotel or at training I think is really important. I noticed Mitch Starc played golf with him, so it certainly didn't impact his performance, said Greenberg on SEN Radio on Saturday. Did that correlate to any of the issues? I personally don't think so. Usman's a very seasoned campaigner, he knows his body well, and he knows how to get himself prepared for cricket. So I think that is drawing a long bow. A lot of people talk about cricket being played between the ears. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Thats exactly how Andrew McDonald and the team have functioned over a long period of time and theyve been very successful on that. The individual performance inside a team environment, and then ultimately youre held accountable for your performance. Thats mature and thats the current approach, he added. Article Source: IANS

'Drawing a long bow' - Greenberg defends Khawaja's golf after back spasm causes chaos

CA chief executive believes there is no correlation between Khawaja's injury and the three days of golf he played in the lead-in to the Test match

A Dumping Ground, Under Control Of Encroachers Is Now Indias 30th Test Cricket Venue

Barsapara Stadium (also known as the Assam Cricket Association Stadium) in Guwahati is staging a Test match for the first time ever. After what happened at Eden Gardens, the pitch and the new venue both are in focus now. The BCCI head curator Ashish Bhowmick is looking after the pitch and since this is home turf, his responsibility is much more. The India -South Africa Test at Barsapara Stadium, situated on the outskirts of Guwahati and inaugurated in 2012, is a historic occasion for Assam as this the first venue in the North-East where a Test is played. The local people after watching IPL games and the ICC Womens World Cup matches, will now watch the real stuff. Few years back, who would have thought that Guwahati shall give BCCI its Secretary Devojit Saikia and now the city is 30th venue in India to stage a Test. Earlier the centrally located Nehru Stadium was the centre of states most of the sporting activity including cricket and now cricket has its own home. The Assam government has plans to make Nehru stadium a FIFA Olympic-standard football stadium. Some facts about the Barsapara Stadium: *The wicket is made of red earth and expected to remain firm longer. * Capacity: 37,000 * Due to the geographical location of the state and India following a single time zone, players will experience something new. Instead of a usual Test match start of 9.30 AM, the Guwahati Test will witness a 9.00 AM start with toss at 8.30 AM. Lunch and Tea reversed. The first break from 11.00 AM to 11.20 AM. Lunch will be taken at 1.20 PM, and the final session will run from 2.00 PM. Tea before Lunch has was seen in the initial day-night Tests in Australia, but probably for a day Test, its a new start. * This year, the ICC Womens Cricket World Cup 2025 got off to a historic start here and the opener between India and Sri Lanka was watched by 22,843 fans, a record for the most attended group stage fixture at any Womens World Cup (Previous record: 15,935 set during the India-Pakistan ICC Womens T20 World Cup in 2024). * The construction of the stadium started in 2006 (in 2004 the foundation stone was laid by the then Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi). In 2012, the stadium was inaugurated by State PHE Minister Gautom Roy, who was also the president of ACA, and thereafter hosted its first professional game an East Zone Senior Women's Inter-State One-Day Championship match between Assam and Odisha. *The first international match here took place in 2017, a mens T20I between India and Australia and this marked the return of international cricket to Guwahati after seven years. *Womens T20Is were held here in 2019, and England were the visitors. * The rise of Assam in cricket circles coincide with the emergence of a new talent from east, named Riyan Parag, the first male cricketer from the state to go on to play for India and his IPL side Rajasthan Royals made Guwahati their second home. *The Stadium also hosts the Assam Cricket Association Academy. *In 2010, the stadium was officially renamed Dr. Bhupen Hazarika Cricket Stadium by the ACA to honour the renowned lyricist, musician, and filmmaker. *An area of 59 bighas of land was allotted to ACA by the State Government and after clearing a portion from encroachers, the construction started. So, this is a story of a dumping ground, converted into a Test venue. * Klorophyll (India) Sports Turf Technology & Construction Private Limited has constructed the main field covering approximately 16800 sq. m., which is first of its kind in the entire country, as it is 100% sand based USGA perched water table profile installed with a detailed subsoil drainage network on grid pattern. The region is subject to very heavy precipitation, so the subsoil drainage system is designed to withstand cloudburst, such that play can start within minutes of a rain stoppage. * The main field has eight pitches on the wicket square, and there are ten pitches on a separate practice wicket area covering more than 2000 sq. m. * In 2020 the IPL had a new venue in Guwahat and was scheduled to host two of Rajasthan Royals' home matches (against Delhi Capitals and Kolkata Knight Riders), making it the first city in the north-east of India to host an IPL match. However, the IPL was shifted to Dubai during the pandemic. The IPL returned to Guwahati in 2023 and Rajasthan Royals played against Punjab Kings and Delhi Capitals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Charanpal Singh Sobti

Gardner's sublime over snaps Hobart Hurricanes' WBBL streak

The home side were on track for another victory before Sydney Sixers' captain took three quick wickets

2nd Test: Can Expect Interesting Decisions From Pants Instincts As Captain, Says Sundar

Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Indias offspin bowling allrounder Washington Sundar believes Rishabh Pant will rely heavily on his instincts as he leads the side in the second Test against South Africa at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium. Pant becomes Indias 38th Test captain, and is only the second wicketkeeperbatter after MS Dhoni to lead the side in the longest format. Incidentally, Pants first outing as Test skipper comes at the same venue where he made his ODI debut in 2018. He was entrusted with leadership duties after regular skipper Shubman Gill was ruled out due to a neck injury. Hes a little different from him as the captain. Hes someone who would go in with his instincts and we all know how he thinks about his game, especially when he bats. So I think we can expect a lot from his instincts and I hope he takes some interesting decisions as well, said Sundar to broadcasters ahead of the start of the game. The inaugural Test in Guwahati begun at 9am, earlier than the customary 9.30am start in India. The first session break will be for tea, limited to 20 minutes, followed by a 40minute lunch interval starting at 1:40pm. Reflecting on preparations ahead of the Guwahati Test, especially after losing the Kolkata Test by 30 runs, Sundar said, I mean, it is good. We had a decent prep in Eden Gardens itself immediately after the last game and then coming over here, we got a couple of days. Conditions are a little different over here like early morning starts. Conditions are a lot more different here and we need to sort of gather a lot of information in the first couple of days. So its going to be a lot more exciting. India need to win in Guwahati to level the two-game series and avoid a second series loss in two years. Sundar remarked that the Indian team is up for the challenge to save the series. Its the beauty of Test cricket over here. You are going to be challenged no matter what happens. Even if you are doing really well in the series, you will come out and be challenged every single day throughout the game. So I think all of us are really up for the challenge, especially when playing at home, we genuinely feel strong and we are prepared enough as well. India need to win in Guwahati to level the two-game series and avoid a second series loss in two years. Sundar remarked that the Indian team is up for the challenge to save the series. Its the beauty of Test cricket over here. You are going to be challenged no matter what happens. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Its all got to do with how I manage my time and the day. The fact that its not a long series means I have got enough time to give to both batting and bowling and also to fielding here and there. But then yes its a great opportunity to play at number three, especially at the highest level for the Indian cricket team, I would take it any day with both my hands. Article Source: IANS

South Africa bring in Muthusamy and bat; Sai Sudharsan and Reddy in for India

India have left out Axar Patel to accommodate the additional right-hand batter in Nitish Kumar Reddy, while South Africa have left out Corbin Bosch

WI opt to bat in quest for consolation win; Duffy returns for NZ

Duffy and Foulkes return for NZ in place of Tickner and Smith

Battling Cobolli sends holders Italy into Davis Cup final

Cobolli clawed his way to a 6-3 6-7(5) 7-6(15) victory against Belgiums Zizou Bergs, with the third-set tiebreak one of the best ever seen in the competitions rich history

Dawid Malan departs Yorkshire by mutual consent

Former England batter looking for fresh challenge after six seasons with White Rose

USA's Akhilesh Reddy charged for breaching anti-corruption code in Abu Dhabi T10

Reddy has been suspended from playing and has 14 days to respond to the charges against him

Ripon Mondol stars as Bangladesh A win Super Over to make final

Suryavanshi scored a 15-ball 38 in chase but the middle order failed to fire before an unlikely lifeline took the game to a Super Over

Asia Cup Rising Stars: Ripon Mondols Double-wicket Super Over Knocks Out India A In Doha

Asia Cup Rising Stars: Ripon Mondol delivered a breathtaking Super Over performance, conceding no runs and taking two wickets, to power Bangladesh A to victory over India A and into the final of the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2025/26 after a nerve-shredding first semifinal in Doha, Qatar. In a contest that swung wildly throughout, Mondols ice-cold brilliance with the ball proved decisive as Bangladesh A edged out India A in dramatic fashion. Earlier, India skipper Jitesh Sharma won the toss and opted to bowl on a true batting surface, but Bangladesh A made full use of the conditions. Opener Habibur Rahman Sohan anchored the innings superbly with 65 off 46 balls, while Jishan Alam (26 off 14) and Zawad Abrar (13 off 19) chipped in with top-order contributions. India A fought back admirably through spinners Harsh Dubey and Suyash Sharma, reducing Bangladesh A from a strong 108/2 to 130/6. Just as India A seized control, S M Meherob Hasan turned the match on its head. Meherob unleashed a stunning counterattack48* off 18 balls with six sixesand alongside Yasir Ali (18 off 9)*, blasted 50 runs in the final two overs. Bangladesh A finished with a commanding 194/6 in 20 overs. India A responded in blazing fashion. Vaibhav Suryavanshi tore into the bowlers from ball one, smashing 38 off 15 as India A stormed to 49/0 in 3 overs before Abdul Gaffar Saqlain ended his onslaught. Priyansh Arya (44 off 23) kept the momentum going, but wickets fell around him. Naman Dhir struggled for his 7 off 12, and India A slipped after the power-packed start, reaching 101/3 at the halfway mark, suddenly needing a rebuild. The chase ebbed and flowed, ultimately coming down to 16 off the final over. Rakibul Hasan bowled five superb deliveries before a last-ball misfield gifted India A three runs, tying the game and forcing a Super Over. Bangladesh A handed the ball to Ripon Mondol, and he produced pure magic. He dismissed Jitesh Sharma off the first ball, then removed Ashutosh Sharma the very next delivery, restricting India A to 0a perfect super over from the young pacer. Tasked with defending just 1 run, India A turned to Suyash Sharma. He removed Yasir Ali off the first ball, briefly raising hopes, but the next ball drifted down leg for a wide enough to seal the match and Bangladesh As place in the final. Bangladesh A handed the ball to Ripon Mondol, and he produced pure magic. He dismissed Jitesh Sharma off the first ball, then removed Ashutosh Sharma the very next delivery, restricting India A to 0a perfect super over from the young pacer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Super over India A 0/2 in 0.2 overs lost to Bangladesh A 1/1 in 0.1 over by nine wickets Article Source: IANS

Wilson trumps de Klerk in Thunder's big win over Heat

Heat's finals hopes in danger while Thunder win back-to-back games after beginning with three losses

Nortje Returns To South Africa Squad For T20Is Against India, Hermann Included For ODIs

South Africa T20I: Fast bowler Anrich Nortje has returned to South Africas squad for the T20I series against India, to be held from December 9-19, while batter Rubin Hermann has earned a callup for the ODI leg of the tour taking place from November 30 to December 6. Nortje, 32, last turned out for South Africa in the 2024 Mens T20 World Cup final against India in Barbados in June 2024. The fast bowler returned to competitive cricket through the CSA T20 Challenge with the Dolphins, after having fully recovered from a stress reaction injury that sidelined him from the Proteas trips to Zimbabwe, Australia, and England. Of course, well miss KG (Kagiso Rabada) on this tour, but as we saw in the first Test win over India, this group has depth and that is one of our primary goals as a squad; to develop a unit filled with players who can step up at any time. Every time someone is unavailable, it opens the door for another player to stand up. We want to see more players stand up as we have been seeing so often over the past couple of years. It's also really good to welcome Anrich back into the T20I side after he missed the previous tours through injury. We know exactly what he brings, so were really looking forward to working with him, said head coach Shukri Conrad in a statement. Wicketkeeper-batter Hermann, meanwhile, made his ODI debut against Pakistan earlier this month. Temba Bavuma will lead the side in the ODI series against India to be played in Ranchi, Raipur, and Visakhapatnam. Aiden Markram returns to captain the T20I side for the series to be played in Cuttack, New Chandigarh, Dharamsala, Lucknow, and Ahmedabad, with David Miller also back in the set-up and Ryan Rickelton finding no place. Were really looking forward to this white-ball tour for so many reasons. The T20I series in particular is an important opportunity for us to finalise our squad ahead of next years T20 World Cup, which will also be played in India. Getting clarity on combinations and roles now is crucial as we build towards that tournament. In the 50-over format, these matches will give us a clear picture of where we are as a group and what we need to keep building on as we shape the squad ahead of the 2027 World Cup, added Conrad. Were really looking forward to this white-ball tour for so many reasons. The T20I series in particular is an important opportunity for us to finalise our squad ahead of next years T20 World Cup, which will also be played in India. Getting clarity on combinations and roles now is crucial as we build towards that tournament. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa T20I squad: Aiden Markram (captain), Ottneil Baartman, Corbin Bosch, Dewald Brevis, Quinton de Kock, Tony de Zorzi, Donovan Ferreira, Reeza Hendricks, Marco Jansen, Keshav Maharaj, George Linde, Kwena Maphaka, David Miller, Lungi Ngidi, Anrich Nortje, and Tristan Stubbs. Article Source: IANS

Suryakumar picked in Mumbai squad for Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy

India's T20I captain has not been in good form in T20 internationals this year

New Zealand vs West Indies, 3rd ODI- Who will win today NZ vs WI match?

NZ vs WI, 3rd ODI, Cricket Tips: After the T20I series, New Zealand have also won the ongoing ODI series with one match left to play. The Black Caps have been professional in both games and have shown better character under pressure. West Indies came close in both games but found themselves on the wrong side eventually. Now, the West Indian fans will hope that their team can find some form and end with a win. The third and final ODI will be played on November 22 at 6:30 AM IST at Seddon Park. New Zealand have made changes to their playing XI, but whoever came in has performed well. That is what West Indies have been missing. NZ vs WI: Match Details Date : November 22 (Saturday) Time : 06:30 AM IST Venue : Seddon Park, Hamilton NZ vs WI: Live Streaming Details Fans can watch the live telecast of the third ODI on Sony Sports Networks, whereas the live stream will be available on the Sony LIV app or website. NZ vs WI: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches : 70 New Zealand : 32 West Indies : 31 No Result : 06 NZ vs WI: Ground Pitch Report Seddon Park is considered a good batting venue. It has short boundaries with a quick outfield. However, the fast bowlers can get help with the hard ball and trouble the batters. For spinners, there is not much help. Chasing the target is a good option here. NZ vs WI: Possible XIs New Zealand : Rachin Ravindra, Will Young, Devon Conway, Tom Latham (wk), Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Kyle Jamieson, Mitchell Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Matt Henry, Blair Tickner West Indies : John Campbell, Shai Hope (c & wk), Ackeem Auguste, Keacy Carty, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Romario Shepherd, Matthew Forde, Justin Greaves, Shamar Springer, Jayden Seales NZ vs WI: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Devon Conway is the leading scorer for New Zealand and scored a match-winning 90 in the chase. For West Indies, Shai Hope is the man to look at. He scored a record-breaking century in the last game. Probable Best Bowler Kyle Jamieson has been bowling in good rhythm. He is picking wickets at different stages of the game. For West Indies, Matthew Forde has been in good form and is taking wickets. Today Match Prediction : West Indies have never looked like they were winning games. They have failed in crunch situations, and New Zealand have cashed in all chances. That is why we predict New Zealand to win the final ODI. NZ vs WI 3rd ODI, Today Match NZ vs WI, NZ vs WI Prediction, NZ vs WI Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between New Zealand vs England 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.

India vs South Africa, 2nd Test - Who will win today IND vs SA match?

IND vs SA , 2nd Test , Cricket Tips :South Africa stunned Team India in Kolkata and pulled off a famous win, defending just 123 runs. They beat India in their own spin trap, which will be on the minds of the hosts. The second test will be held at Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Saturday at 9 AM IST. Shubman Gill has been ruled out after sustaining a neck injury, and Rishabh Pant has been given the responsibility of leading the side. For South Africa, Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the second test, but he didn't play the first test. So, there will be no change for South Africa. IND vs SA: Match Details Date : November 22-26, 2025 (Saturday-Wednesday) Time : 9:00 AM IST Venue : Barsapara Cricket Stadium, Guwahati IND vs SA: Live Streaming Details Tune into Star Sports Network to watch the live action of the second IND vs SA test. For live streams, Indian fans can switch to the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND vs SA: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 45 India : 16 South Africa : 19 Drawn : 10 IND vs SA: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Guwahati is expected to be more in favor of spinners. The wicket will slow down with time, and it will break out. That will make the ball turn sharply with an uneven bounce. That is how the pitches in India behave for tests. IND vs SA: Possible XIs India : KL Rahul, Yashasvi Jaiswal, Sai Sudharsan, Washington Sundar, Rishabh Pant (wk & c), Dhruv Jurel, Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Md. Siraj South Africa : Aiden Markram, Ryan Rickelton, Wiaan Mulder, Temba Bavuma (c), Tony de Zorzi, Tristan Stubbs, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Marco Jansen, Corbin Bosch, Simon Harmer, Keshav Maharaj IND vs SA: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Without Gill, a lot will depend on how KL Rahul bats. He is the most experienced batter and has performed in these conditions. Temba Bavuma is the key for South Africa; he has the determination to play long in these conditions. Probable Best Bowler Kuldeep Yadav bowled well in Kolkata and will be a threat to South Africa in this game. For South Africa, Simon Harmer will be key because of his wicket-taking ability. Today Match Prediction : South Africa had a great first game, while India were poor. But it is hard to beat India in consecutive home tests. Hence, we predict India to win this game. IND vs SA Match 2nd Test, Today Match IND vs SA, IND vs SA Prediction, IND vs SA Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between India vs South Africa 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.

Starc difference in Australia's day of two halves

Seven-wicket haul sets up hosts only for familiar batting failures to hand back initiative

'My Role Is To Look For Wickets': Starc Unfazed After Seven-wicket Burst In Ashes Opener

Pacer Mitchell Starc: Pacer Mitchell Starc said he had always backed his ability to take wickets, even as Australia stared at a precarious position after a chaotic opening day of the first Ashes Test in Perth. The left-arm quick produced a sensational spell of 7 for 58 to bowl England out for 172, but the visitors hit back hard to leave Australia tottering at 123 for 9 by stumps. With 19 wickets falling the most ever on day one of an Ashes series Starcs spell stood out as the defining performance of the day, and he insisted he was simply doing the job that has always been expected of him. I mean, its always the plan, isnt it? But it doesnt always happen that way, Starc said. Ive just been pretty fortunate to have done it a few times. But its always been my role to be aggressive, look for wickets. Ive never been one to worry about economy rates. My role is to go looking for wickets, especially with the new ball, and hopefully make inroads into the opposition. Starcs performance came at a time when Australia are missing two of their biggest bowling assets captain Pat Cummins (back) and Josh Hazlewood (hamstring). But the 101-Test veteran said the responsibility had not weighed on him. Actually, strangely, Ive been quite calm all week, even when we got to the ground, he said. Its unfortunate that we havent got Josh and Pat with us, but we still have a fair bit of experience in the bowling attack. With Australia still trailing by 49 runs and only one wicket in hand, the hosts face a steep challenge on day two. Starc acknowledged that he might need to produce more magic to keep Australia alive in the contest, but he refused to blame the pitch for the dramatic collapse on both sides. Two pretty good bowling attacks. Credit to both, he said. I mean, I thought we bowled pretty well, and I thought they bowled pretty nicely. So I think its just one of those days where you get two attacks that are on the money for the whole day, and we sit here with 19 wickets down. With Australia still trailing by 49 runs and only one wicket in hand, the hosts face a steep challenge on day two. Starc acknowledged that he might need to produce more magic to keep Australia alive in the contest, but he refused to blame the pitch for the dramatic collapse on both sides. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But its two innings of cricket and a long time left in this series, he said. Article Source: IANS

Ruturaj Gaikwad To Lead Maharashtra In 2025/26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: India opener Ruturaj Gaikwad has been named Maharashtras captain for the 2025/26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy starting on November 26, said the Maharashtra Cricket Association announced on Friday. Gaikwad heads into the tournament on the back of strong form for India A in their 50-over series in Rajkot, where he amassed 210 runs, including a century. Maharashtra will play its groupstage fixtures at Eden Gardens in Kolkata, and will start their campaign against Jammu and Kashmir on November 26. Apart from J&K, Maharashtra will also face off against Goa, Uttar Pradesh, Hyderabad, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar, and Chandigarh in their Elite Group B league matches. Meanwhile, Shubham Khajuria has been named captain of the J&K team. The squad includes fast bowler Umran Malik and hardhitting batter Abdul Samad, both of whom bring valuable experience to the side whose fortunes in the Ranji Trophy have been on a high. For their white-ball games, they will have the services of their guest player leg-spinner Murugan Ashwin, who previously played for Tamil Nadu and Chandigarh. Previously, Jharkhand named wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan as their captain for the tournament, where they are slotted in Elite Group D, alongside Delhi, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Saurashtra, and Tripura in Ahmedabad. Karnataka, meanwhile, have named Mayank Agarwal as their captain, with availability of Devdutt Padikkal, Prasidh Krishna and KL Rahul depending on their selection for the ongoing multi-format series against South Africa. Previously, Jharkhand named wicketkeeper-batter Ishan Kishan as their captain for the tournament, where they are slotted in Elite Group D, alongside Delhi, Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Saurashtra, and Tripura in Ahmedabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jammu & Kashmir squad: Qamran Iqbal, Shubham Khajuria (c), Vivrant Sharma, Musaif Aijaz, Abdul Samad, Yawer Hassan, Kanhaiya Wadhawan (vc), Abid Mushtaq, Vanshaj Sharma, Ashwin Murugan, Yudhvir Singh, Auqib Nabi, Umran Malik, Nasir Lone, and Sunil Kumar Article Source: IANS

Carse Lauds phenomenal Stokes After 19-wicket Ashes Opener

Brydon Carse: Brydon Carse hailed Ben Stokes inspirational leadership after England mounted a stunning fightback with the ball on a dramatic opening day of the first Test of the 2025-26 Ashes in Perth, where 19 wickets fell the most ever on Day 1 of an Ashes series. After being skittled for just 172 in 32.5 overs Englands second-shortest Ashes innings in history the visitors roared back to reduce Australia to 123 for 9, leaving the hosts trailing by 49 heading into day two. Carse spearheaded the revival by dismissing Steven Smith and Usman Khawaja, before Stokes produced a spell for the ages, claiming 5 for 45 in ten overs to shred Australias lower middle order. Carse revealed that Stokes had set the tone for the day even before a ball was bowled, insisting the squad walk together to the ground, a decision that added to the high-voltage atmosphere created by over 51,000 spectators. Stokesy came up with that idea last night, Carse said. We came in at about 8.30 am because if we were half an hour later, we might have got a bit more stick from the Aussie fans. It was electric the energy throughout the day was awesome. Despite Englands batting collapse, Stokes calmness and clarity at the innings break sparked the turnaround. Stokesy kept it really simple, Carse explained. We had 45-50 minutes before tea, and he said to the lads with the ball, just give everything. The way Gus Atkinson and Jofra started was phenomenal. After tea, the message was similar just do it for longer. Englands bold decision to field five fast bowlers a rarity in Test cricket paid immediate dividends on a lively Optus Stadium pitch. Short, sharp bursts from Jofra Archer and Mark Wood prevented Australias batters from settling, and Carse believes Englands depth will be a major asset across the series. I havent played in a lot of attacks with five seamers, but everyone complements each other, he said. Were six or seven seamers with different attributes. Hopefully that stands us in good stead. But Stokes performance, aura, and example, Carse insisted, remained the heartbeat of Englands hopes of reclaiming the urn in Australia for the first time since 2010-11. His character and enthusiasm around the group, and the way he goes about his business, is phenomenal, Carse added. Everyone looks up to him. Hes in beast mode at the moment. I havent played in a lot of attacks with five seamers, but everyone complements each other, he said. Were six or seven seamers with different attributes. Hopefully that stands us in good stead. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead to day two, Carse expects conditions to ease and Englands batters to respond with greater conviction. The first thing tomorrow is to knock over the last wicket, he said. Weve seen batting can get easier. Some guys were proactive, even Carey at the end. Our batters will know the game plan for the second innings. Article Source: IANS

Carse hails 'phenomenal' Stokes as captain inspires England fightback

Fast bowler hails decisions on and off the field as England emerge on top on rollercoaster first day

Ashes: 19 Wickets Tumble On Opening Day As Australia Trail By 49 Runs

With Usman Khawaja: Nineteen wickets fell on a chaotic opening day of the first Ashes Test at Perth Stadium, where fast bowlers from both sides wreaked havoc on a bouncy surface to leave the match dramatically in the balance. By stumps, Australia were shellshocked at 123/9, still trailing England by 49 runs, after captain Ben Stokes tore through the middle and lower order with a sensational 5-23 from six overs, building on ferocious bursts from Jofra Archer and Brydon Carse. The collapse mirrored the 202425 Border-Gavaskar opener at the same venue, where 17 wickets fell on Day 1. Earlier on Friday, Australian spearhead Mitchell Starc produced a career-best Ashes spell, ripping out England for 172 in 32.5 overs with stunning figures of 7-58. His brutality came before a record crowd of 51,531, while Harry Brooks counterattacking half-century (52) lit up Englands innings as they rattled along at 5.24 runs per over. No visiting team has been bowled out quicker in a first innings of a Test in Australia since 1932. Starc removed Zak Crawley for a sixth-ball duck, then trapped Ben Duckett lbw for 21 before squaring up Joe Root for a seventh-ball duck, leaving England reeling at 39/3. Brook, unbothered, launched a blistering assault charging Australias quicks, cracking an 89m six, and adding 55 with Ollie Pope before Cameron Green nailed Pope lbw for 46. But Starc and debutant Brendan Doggett (2-27) then triggered a collapse of 5-12 in 19 balls, with Brook falling for a 61-ball 52. England wicketkeeper Jamie Smith clattered 33 off 22 before holing out, becoming Starcs seventh victim. With Usman Khawaja unable to open because of back spasms, Marnus Labuschagne partnered with debutant Jake Weatherald but the innings imploded immediately. Archer dismissed Weatherald for a second-ball duck on review, then removed Labuschagne for 9, the ball ricocheting off his elbow into stumps. Carse struck twice, removing Steve Smith (17) and Khawaja (2), before Stokes entered and dismantled the innings. Stokes dismissed Travis Head (21), Green (24), Starc (12), Carey (26), and Boland (0) in a devastating burst, leaving Nathan Lyon (3 not out) and Doggett (0 not out) at the close. Archer dismissed Weatherald for a second-ball duck on review, then removed Labuschagne for 9, the ball ricocheting off his elbow into stumps. Carse struck twice, removing Steve Smith (17) and Khawaja (2), before Stokes entered and dismantled the innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: England 172 in 32.5 overs (Harry Brook 52, Ollie Pope 46; Mitchell Starc 7-58, Brendan Doggett 2-27) lead Australia 123/9 in 39 overs (Alex Carey 26, Cameron Green 24; Ben Stokes 5-23, Jofra Archer 2-11) by 49 runs. Article Source: IANS

Australia on the ropes after frenetic 19-wicket opening day

Mitchell Starc ripped through England with a seven-wicket haul but England hit right back thanks to Jofra Archer, Brydon Carse and Ben Stokes

Mystery pitch adds to intrigue in Guwahati's Test debut

The best India can hope for is to finish with honours even, while world champions South Africa have a chance to make it a second series defeat for India in their last three

Pant Will Handle It Fine As Indias Captain For Guwahati Test Against SA, Says Ponting

Barsapara Cricket Stadium: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting has backed wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant to be fine in handling the captaincy role for India in the upcoming second Test against South Africa, saying his vast experience will serve him well to lead the hosts in the absence of Shubman Gill. Pant will become Indias 38th Test captain when the Guwahati Test begins at the Barsapara Cricket Stadium on Saturday, after regular skipper Gill was ruled out due to a neck injury sustained in the first game at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. A series-levelling win in Guwahati will also help India to climb to third place in the World Test Championship standings. It's never easy to come in and fill in for someone as a stopgap captain, especially when you've just lost a Test match a few days before. Rishabh is a reasonably experienced Test match player now though as well. I think being a wicket keeper probably helps to see the way that the game is evolving and what's happening in the game. He has done at IPL level now for the last few years, obviously done it in Delhi (Capitals) before that. I think he'll handle it fine, said Ponting on the ICC Review show. Pant and Ponting previously shared a captaincoach dynamic at Delhi Capitals before the former moved to Lucknow Super Giants, while the latter shifted to Punjab Kings. Pant brings considerable leadership experience from whiteball cricket, as well as captaining India in the T20I series against South Africa in June 2022. Though Pant will captain India in red-ball cricket for the first time, he will bank on his experience of leading Delhi in Ranji Trophy and more recently, of leading India A in the two-game series against South Africa A at the BCCI CoE ground in Bengaluru. Ponting is keen to see how Pant would modify his style of play in Guwahati due to the leadership duties. Pant and Ponting previously shared a captaincoach dynamic at Delhi Capitals before the former moved to Lucknow Super Giants, while the latter shifted to Punjab Kings. Pant brings considerable leadership experience from whiteball cricket, as well as captaining India in the T20I series against South Africa in June 2022. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The IPL is probably almost as big as a Test match for a lot of these guys because of the crowds and the scrutiny that comes in an IPL game. I think the modern players are a bit more ready for that and a bit for those leadership roles and the enormity of the situation than they might have been 15 years ago. So I think Rishabh will handle it fine, he added. Article Source: IANS

BCCI Invites Applications For Head Of Cricket Education Role At CoE In Bengaluru

Karnataka State Cricket Association: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) said on Friday that it is inviting applications for the position of Head - Cricket Education at its Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru. The position was held till recently by former India cricketer Sujith Somasunder, who is now contesting for Vice Presidents post in the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) elections as a member of the Venkatesh Prasad-led panel. This full-time position is central to BCCIs long-term vision of developing a world-class cricket education system that supports coaches, athletes, state academies and high-performance programs across the country. The Head Cricket Education will oversee the design, delivery and continuous advancement of cricket and sports-science education at the COE, BCCI said in a release. The role is open to candidates up to the age of 58 and the term of work to be determined as per the employment offer. Applications must be submitted by 5 pm IST on December 8. Following screening and shortlisting, selected candidates may be invited for personal interviews as part of the evaluation process. The ideal candidates qualifications and experience should be to have a proven track record in developing and delivering cricketeducation programmes. Applicants must be an active Level3 coach (or higher) with impeccable credentials, international playing or coaching experience preferred. They should also have a strong background in coach training, playerprogress reporting and highperformance systems is required, along with a minimum of five years experience working with elite athletes; prior experience as a trainer with cricket players is essential. The ideal candidate should demonstrate excellent communication skills and the ability to work with diverse groups across domestic and highperformance ecosystems, coupled with high integrity, discipline, peopleassessment skills and leadership ability. The selected applicant will be responsible for administering all aspects of coach education, accreditation and curriculum development at the CoE, including planning, implementing and reviewing all coaching courses, including Level A, B and C programmes, as well as conducting and coordinating nationwide refresher courses for coaches. The candidate should also know about using modern performance-analysis tools such as athlete-management systems, video analytics, GPS and wearable technology to derive actionable game insights, as well as collaborate with the Head of Cricket, CoE, on online education initiatives and the development of advanced coaching modules. The selected applicant will be responsible for administering all aspects of coach education, accreditation and curriculum development at the CoE, including planning, implementing and reviewing all coaching courses, including Level A, B and C programmes, as well as conducting and coordinating nationwide refresher courses for coaches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Other responsibilities include supporting coach-intake processes for CoE, Zonal Cricket Academies and specialist camps and assessing suspect bowling actions referred to the CoE and presenting findings to relevant committees. Article Source: IANS

After Missing Kolkata Game Due To Rib Injury, Rabada Ruled Out Of Second Test

Seamer Lungi Ngidi: After missing South Africas 30-run win over India in the first Test at Kolkata, fast bowler Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the second Test against India in Guwahati and the subsequent whiteball series due to a rib bone stress injury. Seamer Lungi Ngidi has already been drafted into the squad as a cover for the injured Rabada. The injury has been closely monitored by the Proteas medical team, and due to ongoing discomfort in the affected area, Rabada has been withdrawn from the remainder of the tour. He will continue the initial phase of his four-week rehabilitation program with the Proteas medical team before returning to South Africa at the conclusion of the second Test, said Cricket South Africa (CSA) in a statement on Friday. The development also means that South Africa could field an unchanged playing eleven for the upcoming clash in Guwahati. Simon Harmer emerged as South Africas standout bowler in the Kolkata Test, claiming eight wickets in a Player of the Match performance. He will continue the initial phase of his four-week rehabilitation program with the Proteas medical team before returning to South Africa at the conclusion of the second Test, said Cricket South Africa (CSA) in a statement on Friday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Temba Bavuma-led South Africa come into the game in Guwahati with an aim to get their first series win on Indian soil after 25 years. Since becoming the World Test Championship winners in June, South Africa drew 11 in Pakistan and then edged India by 30 runs on a challenging pitch with variable bounce at Eden Gardens. South Africa now have a chance to secure a Test series triumph in India after the Hansie Cronje-led Proteas last did it in 2000. Article Source: IANS

Deepti, Renuka, Devine, Ecclestone, Healy, Kerr, Lanning And Wolvaardt In WPL Auction Marquee Set

Allrounder Deepti Sharma: Allrounder Deepti Sharma and fast bowler Renuka Singh are the only two Indian players in the marquee set for the Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 mega auction, to be held in the national capital on November 27. The marquee list also features New Zealand duo Sophie Devine and Amelia Kerr, Englands Sophie Ecclestone, Australia's pair of skipper Alyssa Healy and multiple-time World Cup winning captain Meg Lanning, along with South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt. While six players have kept a base price of INR 50 lakh in the marquee set, Renuka has set her amount at INR 40 lakh, while Laura has listed hers at INR 30 lakh. Deepti, the Player of the Tournament in the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup win, Sophie and Alyssa previously featured for UP Warriorz, and could be brought back by the franchise as they have four righttomatch (RTM) options. A total of 277 players will go under the hammer for 73 available slots at the auction. The list features 194 Indian cricketers, including 52 capped and 142 uncapped players competing for 50 spots. On the other hand, 66 overseas capped players and 17 foreign uncapped players will vie for the 23 slots earmarked for non-Indian cricketers. 19 players have entered the auction in the highest baseprice bracket of INR 50 lakh, while 11 players have registered in the INR 40 lakh category. Another 88 players have listed themselves in the INR 30 lakh bracket. India batter Harleen Deol, who was with Gujarat Giants, has entered the capped allrounders list at the highest baseprice bracket of INR 50 lakh, while Radha Yadav, Sneh Rana and N Shree Charani, her teammates in the recent ODI World Cup win, have all set their base price at INR 30 lakh. Assam wicketkeeper Uma Chetry, who was the backup wicketkeeper-batter in Indias squad, and fast bowler Kranti Gaud, who has represented UPW, have also listed themselves in the INR 50 lakh bracket. Australia leg spinner Alana King (INR 40 lakh), Indias spin bowling trio of Asha Sobhana, Priya Mishra and Saika Ishaque have all kept their base price at INR 30 lakh and will be in the sixth set. In the auction list, Australias Tahlia McGrath, who featured for UPW, and Sophie Molineux, who played for Royal Challengers Bengaluru, are notable absentees from the 23member Australian contingent in the pool. The list also includes 22 players from England, 13 from New Zealand and 11 from South Africa. Sri Lanka will be represented by Chamari Athapaththu, Harshitha Samarawickrama and Inoka Ranaweera, with Chamari having played for UPW last season. Bangladesh trio of Marufa Akter, Shorna Akter and Rabeya Khan have entered the pool too. Thailands leftarm spinner Thipatcha Putthawong is the sole representative from her country, while the USAs Tara Norris, who played for Delhi Capitals in WPL 2023 and was the first bowler to claim a fivewicket haul in the competition, is the only American player in the pool. The list also includes 22 players from England, 13 from New Zealand and 11 from South Africa. Sri Lanka will be represented by Chamari Athapaththu, Harshitha Samarawickrama and Inoka Ranaweera, with Chamari having played for UPW last season. Bangladesh trio of Marufa Akter, Shorna Akter and Rabeya Khan have entered the pool too. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They are followed by RCB (INR 6.15 crore), Mumbai Indians (INR 5.75 crore) and Delhi Capitals (INR 5.70 crore). Two-time champions MI and three-time runners-up DC, after having retained five players each, will not have any RTM options available. Article Source: IANS

Give Sai Sudharsan Opportunity To Showcase His Talent, Says Saba Karim

Give Sai Sudharsan: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Saba Karim has urged the Indian team management to give a consistent run to Sai Sudharsan in the Test format to showcase his talent. Sudharsan was not picked in the opening Test against South Africa at Eden Gardens, which India lost by 30 runs. After Shubman Gill was ruled out of the second Test in Guwahati due to a neck injury, it is likely that his spot will be filled by Sudharsan in the playing 11. India should get back to the combination of two seamers and three spinners. I think that would suffice on a track in Guwahati. You need to bulk up your batting order because young Indian batters, especially in home conditions, have not done very well. I think it is very important that if you are invested in a young player like Sai Sudharsan, you give him ample opportunity to showcase his talent. Once you have that kind of trust in a player, it offers him more liberty to play with greater freedom. Thats what you expect from him. I hope that Sai Sudharsan will come back into the playing XI, Karim said on JioStar's 'Game Plan'. Sudharsan, who made his debut on the England tour earlier this year, has so far played five red-ball games for India and amassed 273 runs, including two half-centuries. In his last Test against the West Indies in New Delhi, he played a knock of 87 runs - his highest Test score - before adding 39 in the second innings as India registered a seven-wicket win to sweep series 2-0. India should get back to the combination of two seamers and three spinners. I think that would suffice on a track in Guwahati. You need to bulk up your batting order because young Indian batters, especially in home conditions, have not done very well. I think it is very important that if you are invested in a young player like Sai Sudharsan, you give him ample opportunity to showcase his talent. Once you have that kind of trust in a player, it offers him more liberty to play with greater freedom. Thats what you expect from him. I hope that Sai Sudharsan will come back into the playing XI, Karim said on JioStar's 'Game Plan'. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This team has done it before, and its not that they lack the ability. Its just that the conditions at Eden Gardens were very challenging, and that forced the batters to think differently, which contributed to their downfall. You need to think in terms of sessions. You cant be thinking, this is really tough, Ill just go out, play a few big shots, get a quick 20, and feel Ive done well. Yes, one or two batters might have to do that, but not everyone. And as a spinner or any bowler, you also need to be patient. If youre not patient, youll concede runs and the same goes for the batters. Its more about adjusting your mindset rather than focusing only on the conditions in front of you, the veteran spinner said. Article Source: IANS

Khawaja not allowed to open as England collapse forces hasty changes

Marnus Labuschagne forced to open after Khawaja spent most of England's rapid first innings collapse off the field

Dane van Niekerk to make international return after four years

The former SA captain had reversed her decision to retire in August

Rib injury rules Kagiso Rabada out of second Test too

Kagiso Rabada will remain with the team for the Guwahati Test but return home immediately after and miss the white-ball series

Gill ruled out of Guwahati Test, Pant to lead India

Shubman Gill will head to Mumbai for further assessment of his injury, BCCI says in a media statement

Shubman Gill To Head To Mumbai For Further Assessment Of Neck Injury, Says BCCI

Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport: After being ruled out of the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati, Shubman Gill will now head to Mumbai for further assessment of his neck injury, said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Friday. In Gills absence, wicketkeeperbatter Rishabh Pant has been named as Indias captain for the second Test, which is a must-win for the hosts after losing the first Test in Kolkata by 30 runs. Gill had flown with the Indian team to Guwahati on November 19, but didnt take part in the practice sessions due to a neck injury, which also needed hospitalisation in Kolkata. Team India captain Shubman Gill, who suffered a neck injury during the first Test against South Africa, has been ruled out of the second Test in Guwahati. Gill suffered a neck injury on Day 2 of the Kolkata Test and was taken to the hospital for examination after the end of day's play. He was kept under observation and discharged the next day. He travelled to Guwahati on 19th November, 2025. Unfortunately, he was not fully fit to feature in the 2nd Test and will head to Mumbai for further assessment of his injury. Rishabh Pant will lead the team in the 2nd Test in Gill's absence, said BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia in a statement. It is understood that Gill boarded a flight to Mumbai from Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport in the early hours of Friday morning. He is likely to consult Dr Dinshaw Pardiwala, Head Centre for Sports Medicine, and Director - Arthroscopy & Shoulder Service at the Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, for chalking out the further course of recovery from the neck injury. Pardiwala is also overseeing the recovery of Shreyas Iyer, who was admitted to a hospital in Sydney for a spleen laceration, with internal bleeding, after clutching his ribcage post taking the catch of Alex Carey during India's third ODI against Australia on October 25. After being discharged from the hospital and continued recovery in Sydney, Iyer is back home in Mumbai, but will need a few more months to be fully match fit. For now, Gill is also in serious doubt to lead India in the subsequent ODI series against the Proteas, starting on November 30. Pardiwala is also overseeing the recovery of Shreyas Iyer, who was admitted to a hospital in Sydney for a spleen laceration, with internal bleeding, after clutching his ribcage post taking the catch of Alex Carey during India's third ODI against Australia on October 25. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pant is now set to be India's seventh Test captain in the last five years and his task will be to ensure India gets a series-levelling win in Guwahati, becoming Indias 30th Test venue. Article Source: IANS

Pant To Captain India In The Guwahati Test Against South Africa In Gills Absence

Guwahati Test: Rishabh Pant will captain India in the second Test against South Africa beginning at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati on Saturday. Pant steps in to lead India in the must-win game following regular skipper Shubman Gill suffering a neck injury in the first Test at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata. Shubman was keen to play the match. He showed resilience even when his body was not permitting. We have taken a decision on who will play in the playing eleven in place of Shubman. The person who will play in the match knows he is playing, said Pant in the pre-match press conference on Friday. Though Gills availability was always in doubt despite travelling to Guwahati with the Indian team, it is understood that he is likely to be released from the squad to rest and seek a specialist consultation in Mumbai for chalking out further course of recovery. It also means that hes in serious doubt to play in the subsequent ODI series against the Proteas, starting on November 30. For now, Pant will become Indias 38th Test captain and just the second wicketkeeper-batter after MS Dhoni to lead the side in the longer format. Pant is now set to be India's seventh Test captain in the last five years and his task will be to ensure India gets a series-levelling win in Guwahatis debut as a Test venue after suffering a 30-run defeat in Kolkata. It also means that hes in serious doubt to play in the subsequent ODI series against the Proteas, starting on November 30. For now, Pant will become Indias 38th Test captain and just the second wicketkeeper-batter after MS Dhoni to lead the side in the longer format. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sometimes if you think too much about big occasions, it doesn't help. I want to be conventional and also blend it with out-of-box thinking. I want to have nice balance and blend both when captaining, added Pant. Article Source: IANS

Earthquake stops Bangladesh vs Ireland Test for three minutes on third morning

The players and umpires congregated near the pitch while the stands emptied quickly after the 5.5 magnitude earthuake hit part of Bangladesh and India

Bangladesh make further inroads after 5.5 magnitude earthquake halts play

Play was paused for three minutes or so in the first session of the third day when strong tremors were felt at the Shere Bangla Stadium in Mirpur

Mitchell Starc Completes 100 Ashes Wickets, Becomes 13th Australian To Reach Milestone

Mitchell Starc: Veteran pacer Mitchell Starc tore through Englands top order in the first Test in Perth, snaring three early wickets and becoming just the 21st bowler and the 13th Australian to reach 100 Ashes wickets. He hit the milestone in only 23 Tests, underscoring his dominance in the storied rivalry. Starc also drew level with Curtly Ambroses 405 Test wickets, and now sits within striking distance of Wasim Akrams 414, the most Test wickets by a left-arm fast bowler. In his 100th Test, Starcs all-round value remains clear as the left-hander has amassed 2,322 runs, including 11 fifties, with a highest score of 99. In the current squads of both teams, only Nathan Lyon (110) and Starc are the two bowlers to hold 100 or more wickets in the Ashes. For England, captain Ben Stokes and Mark Wood are the most successful bowlers in the series with 41 scalps apiece. Earlier, Stokes won the toss and opted to bat first at Perth Stadium as visitors opted for four pacers and left out off-spinner Shoaib Bashir from the 12-man squad. For England, captain Ben Stokes and Mark Wood are the most successful bowlers in the series with 41 scalps apiece. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The opening session didnt go well for England as they lost opener Zak Crawley on a duck in the first over itself by Starc. The left-arm quick also removed Ben Duckett (21) and Joe Root (0) in quick succession to leave the visitors tottering at 39/3. However, Ollie Pope and Harry Brook rescued the innings with a 55-run partnership for the fourth wicket before Cameron Green trapped the former in front of the wickets for lbw. Pope departed after scoring 46 as England were 105/4 at lunch, with Brook unbeaten on 28 while Ben Stokes was not out on 4. Article Source: IANS

Roach, Hodge Return To West Indies Squad For NZ Tests

West Indies Test: Kemar Roach has been brought back into the West Indies Test squad for their December tour of New Zealand. The veteran fast bowler features in a 15-man group for the three-match series, stepping in as Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph remain sidelined with injuries. Roach, who last appeared in a Test in January in Multan during the Pakistan tour, adds valuable experience to a pace unit that otherwise lacks exposure. That attack includes 29-year-old Ojay Shields, who has earned his first Test call-up. Allrounder Kavem Hodge has also returned to the squad after his most recent Test outing in Multan, while left-arm orthodox spinner Khary Pierre has been omitted. Shields, Roach, and several other squad members recently wrapped up a two-week high-performance training camp in the Caribbean. They are scheduled to link up with the rest of the team already in New Zealand for the ongoing ODI leg on November 20, ahead of a two-day warm-up game against a New Zealand XI in Christchurch. The upcoming Tests form part of the current World Test Championship cycle. West Indies sit at the bottom of the standings among teams that have played, having lost all five of their matches so far. New Zealand, meanwhile, have yet to begin their WTC campaign, making this series their first step into the new cycle. Cricket West Indies' Director of Cricket, Miles Bascombe, said, New Zealand has traditionally been one of the toughest places for any touring side, which is why strong emphasis has been placed on targeted preparation. The recent high-performance camp here in Antigua was designed to replicate, as closely as possible, the conditions we expect to face, particularly the pace-friendly surfaces. The upcoming Tests form part of the current World Test Championship cycle. West Indies sit at the bottom of the standings among teams that have played, having lost all five of their matches so far. New Zealand, meanwhile, have yet to begin their WTC campaign, making this series their first step into the new cycle. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies squad: Roston Chase (c), Jomel Warrican (vc), Alick Athanaze, John Campbell, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Justin Greaves, Kavem Hodge, Shai Hope, Tevin Imlach, Brandon King, Johann Layne, Anderson Phillip, Kemar Roach, Jayden Seales, Ojay Shields. Article Source: IANS

T20 Tri-series: Bowlers Help Zimbabwe To Its Biggest-ever Win Over A Full ICC Member Against Sri Lanka

Pakistan T20 Tri: Left-arm pacer Brad Evans produced a brilliant spell of 4-0-9-3 while skipper Sikandar Raza shone with an all-round effort to help destroy Sri Lanka's batting as Zimbabwe bowled out Sri Lanka for 95 and defended their total of 162/8 for a 67-run victory in the T20 Tri-series at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium here on Thursday. This is Zimbabwe's biggest-ever victory over a full-fledged member of the International Cricket Council (ICC) in T20 format. With this win, Zimbabwe has taken the top spot in the Tri-series table on net run-rate with two points (from two matches), the same as Pakistan from one match. This was Sri Lanka's first match in the event. Led by Evans and Richard Ngarava (2-15), the Zimbabwe bowlers came up with a devastating performance as all six of them figured among wickets, turning what initially looked like an easy target into a nightmare for Sri Lanka. Electing to field first, Sri Lanka had restricted Zimbabwe to 162/8 in 20 overs, a modest total built on a 42-ball 49 by Brian Bennett (4x5, 6x1) and a 32-ball 47 by skipper Sikandr Raza (4x3,6x2). Sri Lanka had made a good start and had Zimbabwe reeling at 40/2 before Bennett and Raza shared a 60-run partnership for the third wicket. Bennett fell to Hasaranga with the score 120, and Zimbabwe lost their way, losing wickets at regular intervals to be restricted for 162/8. Chasing 163, Sri Lanka lost Pathum Nissanka on the fifth ball of the first over and Kusal Perera in the next over. They were 29/4 soon after the Power-play and failed to recover as they were bowled out for 95. Skipper Dasun Shanaka waged a lone battle with a 34 off 25 balls, hitting two fours and two sixes. It was an abject surrender by the Sri Lankan batters as only Bhanuka Rajapaksa (11), besides Shanaka, reached double figures, as extras were the second-highest contribution to the score. They had themselves to blame, as most of them got out playing atrocious shots. Evans grabbed the key wicket of Rajapaksa, cleaning him up with a straight one as the batter tried to hit out of trouble, Eshan Malinga, and Maheesh Theekshana. Ngarava took 2-15 while Sikandar Raza (1-23), Ryan Buri (1-8), Graeme Cremer (1-17), and Tinotenda Maposa (1-17) were the other wicket-takers for Zimbabwe in a memorable victory. It was an abject surrender by the Sri Lankan batters as only Bhanuka Rajapaksa (11), besides Shanaka, reached double figures, as extras were the second-highest contribution to the score. They had themselves to blame, as most of them got out playing atrocious shots. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Zimbabwe 162/8 in 20 overs (Brian Bennett 49, Sikandar Raza 47; Wanindu Hasaranga 3-32, Eshan Malinga 2-27) beat Sri Lanka 95 all out in 20 overs (Dasun Shanaka 34; Brad Evans 3-9, Richard Ngarava 2-15, Sikandar Raza 1-23) by 67 runs. Article Source: IANS

Kemar Roach, Kavem Hodge recalled to West Indies squad for NZ Tests

Shamar Joseph and Alzarri Joseph miss out due to injuries

Theres A Lot Of Development, People Are Recognising Womens Cricket, Says Vaishnavi Sharma

ODI World Cup: Vaishnavi Sharma's emergence as India's hat-trick hero and becoming the leading wicket-taker at this years U19 Womens T20 World Cup win has come at a time when womens cricket is on the rise in the country, still immersed in the glow of the ODI World Cup win on November 2. There is a lot of development, and people are recognising it. There was a discussion about the men's team as well like half of the supporters were there and are now full. It feels good that everyone knows about it. It's not like there is support for the men's team and not for the women's team. There is equality and a lot more wins will come, and there will be more development, and this is the best year for the women's team as well, said Vaishnavi in an exclusive conversation with IANS on the sidelines of an event by OneDice on Thursday. For Vaishnavi, the journey to representing India in the U19 World Cup had been a dream since childhood, and living it in Malaysia turned out to be very emotional. It was my dream to play, and it came true, and when the wickets came, I was very happy that I played for my country and we won. I mean, I can't express it in words. It's a different feeling and emotion. I was very nervous at that time (while trying to pick a hat-trick), but I was confident that I had to do it. Her approach to her maiden World Cup appearance reflected maturity beyond her years. When I got the first chance to play, before the match, I thought that even if it doesn't go well, it's okay. But it's a chance in the World Cup and I won't miss it. Instead, I will enjoy it, and I did it with the mindset of enjoying it. She credited pre-match visualisation and an unwavering conviction in her abilities for her match-winning performances. I felt confident when I went to the ground like I would feel that today is my day, and I was feeling that time today is my day. I visualised last night that I was going to get the wickets, and that's what happened. I was feeling good that my hard work paid off. It also helped that Indias family-like bonding proved instrumental in maintaining morale and focus throughout the tournament. The coordination between the three of us was very good. The bonding was very good. The team of 15 players had a family-like bonding. When I took a wicket, they celebrated it. When someone else picked a wicket, we celebrated it. There was no jealousy. We were very happy in each other's celebration. Add to it, the coaching staff played a key role in alleviating the psychological burden of playing a global event. The coaches were very supportive. Even if we don't know what to think, they come and tell us to chill, and why are we taking so much load? Like, we would make small things an issue and then think about what will happen. But they removed the burden from our shoulders like you don't have to think about anything - you did your best, and that's why you are here. The support staff was very good - Nooshin ma'am (head coach), Rajib sir (bowling coach), and Apurva sir (batting coach) supported us a lot. When asked about maintaining excellence, especially after being the leading wicket-taker in the Senior Womens T20 Trophy and picking 12 scalps in the recent zonal tournament, Vaishnav said, The mantra is discipline, being down to earth. Celebrate one day, and today, just celebrate it. Start from zero for the next day, as every day is a new day. You have to start from zero. Her measured approach to expectations around the WPL 2026 mega auction, happening in New Delhi on November 27, also gave a glimpse into her mindset. My expectations are zero. If it happens, it's a good thing. If it doesn't happen, it's not a bad thing. Let's see what the future holds. She spoke warmly of senior teammate, all-rounder Sneh Rana, whose guidance has proved to be transformative. Sneh di is an inspiration- it's a recent thing. I used to watch her bowling. She has supported me a lot and told me to do more with the ball. In Dehradun, during multi-day games, she led me well and would say, 'Vaishnavi, you have to do it. It's your day you can take out wickets and just loosen your finger while trying to release the ball, and you have to take more wickets'. Her confidence inspired me, and she has become my idol and is very good. I liked her a lot (when she was in the World Cup-winning team). I wanted to meet her, but I couldn't meet her because of my matches. I am very happy to meet her here. I am inspired by her journey. I want to do well in cricket and I want to do something good for my country, she said. The Gwalior-based Vaishnavi also credited her support system for helping her make a career out of playing cricket. They have supported me a lot. If you watch the behind-the-scenes of making a life out of playing cricket, you will know well. A single player doesn't struggle - family and coaches also struggle. Your school helps you, and there are many heroes behind the scenes. Vaishnavi's mother, Ashalata, recounted the early indications of her inclination towards cricket. I could see from her childhood that she was very active in sports. Plus, when her father looked at her horoscope, he found that there was a lot for her in playing cricket internationally. That's why she was put into playing cricket. She also liked playing so much and didn't like studying. The emotional toll of supporting a child through the rigours of professional sports extends far beyond the playing field, said Ashalata. Being alongside her for 24 hours a day is the biggest support from us to her. Even if she was a little nervous, I used to support and encourage her by saying, 'You can do it'. That's how it was. At that time, I was shedding tears of joy when she won the U19 World Cup. She also had a message for families wrestling with societal expectations. The message to everyone is that girls are God's blessing and one should be proud of their daughters and not be worried about them, as per the new thinking. Vaishnavi's father, Narendra, a professor in astrology, reflected on the dedication required to nurture her talent. She started playing cricket at four, and when I used to bowl, she used to stand here and go left. I used to ask her Why are you going left? Then I came to know that she is left-handed. She played under-16 at the age of 11 and even got a certificate. We have struggled a lot to get her here. She also had a message for families wrestling with societal expectations. The message to everyone is that girls are God's blessing and one should be proud of their daughters and not be worried about them, as per the new thinking. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He signed off by offering a clear roadmap for other families seeking to support their daughters' sporting ambitions. If their daughters want to play cricket, they should set a clear goal. They should say that they want to put their daughters in sports and make them play. Whatever sport it is, they should put their daughters in it. If they do their work with a clear goal, they will be successful. Article Source: IANS

Bangladesh's Litton Das Reaps Benefit Of Changed Batting Position, Says Mentor Montu Dutta

Litton Kumar Das: Bangladesh batsman Litton Kumar Das, who scored a century on the second day of the second Test against Ireland in Mirpur near Dhaka on Thursday, is reaping the benefit of changing his batting position, believes childhood mentor Montu Dutta. Litton Das (128), along with Mushfiqur Rahim, playing his 100th Test, scored a hundred and propelled Bangladesh to a strong position on the second day of the Mirpur Test, before the hosts spinners reduced Ireland to 98 for 5 in reply to the home sides 476. Litton, who has been guided by Montu since his childhood days in BKSP- the lone sports institute of the country where he studied, failed to meet his expectations since last year in the longer format of the game. Litton's form in red-ball cricket turned out to be a major concern as he managed to score only 335 runs in eight Test matches, at an average of 22.26, following his 138 against Pakistan in Rawalpindi in August 2024. During this time, he returned to his childhood mentor in order to take his tips and get rid of the ongoing bad patch. While talking with Telecom Asia Sport, Montu explained the areas they worked on during this time frame. He( Litton) used to have a bit of a problem playing swing, and he used to have a bit of a problem playing left-arm spin, so work was being done in those areas. The swing he used to have a bit of a problem with that. Those areas where he got out to left-arm spin, those were the things we were working on, Montu told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net) on Thursday. It was his automatic thing, the way the bat comes from above. But he himself told me, Sir, this has never happened before. My bat is coming a lot across, Montu said. That means the bat used to automatically turn towards second slip. So I saw that his waist was twisted slightly, and it happens when someone is playing cricket for a large amount of time, and as he is used to working with me, I found it out as soon as I saw it and told him 'Due to this, all the things are happening', he said. I just turned it slightly and didnt have to do anything else with him as he understood immediately when we discussed it, he said. Montu added that Litton was finding it difficult to negotiate pace and spin as his chest was a bit open. Its difficult to play swing and away spin if you are a bit open-chest batsman, and it needs to be reminded every three to four months, said Montu, adding that he also worked with his head position. We also worked on head position because if his shoulder turns, then what will happen to the head position? It will turn. If I fix the shoulder position and the bat things, then the head position will automatically come right, he said. Montu added that Litton was finding it difficult to negotiate pace and spin as his chest was a bit open. Its difficult to play swing and away spin if you are a bit open-chest batsman, and it needs to be reminded every three to four months, said Montu, adding that he also worked with his head position. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Thursday's knock of 128 that came off 192 balls, studded with eight boundaries and four sixes, has boosted his confidence, and Litton Kumar Das will be hoping to continue in the same vein and reap the rewards. Article Source: IANS

Women's Cricket Will Rise To Next Level After ODI World Cup Win, Says Tanuja Kanwer

ODI World Cup: Indias left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Tanuja Kanwer said the 2025 ICC Womens ODI World Cup win, coming after the U19 Womens T20 World Cup was retained, would elevate womens cricket to the next level in the country. I think this has been a very good year for India. We won the U-19 World Cup for the first time. We also won the India A series in Australia, and then they also won a bilateral game here against them after 25 (18 years, in New Chandigarh in September). We got a lot of motivation from there. After that, winning the World Cup is a big thing for women's cricket. I think women's cricket will go to the next level from here. It was very important to win the World Cup, said Tanuja in an exclusive conversation with IANS, on the sidelines of an event by OneDice on Thursday. Tanuja has managed to play two ODIs and four T20Is for India after putting in impactful and economical performances for the Gujarat Giants (GG) in the Womens Premier League (WPL). I think WPL has been very good for domestic girls. Before that, we used to get to play for India directly after domestic cricket. So, we couldn't match that level after suddenly going in there. But since WPL came, we started playing with overseas players and are able to match that level in WPL. That's why players don't get nervous when playing for India. They can play comfortably, and I think WPL has played a big role here, she said. In Brisbane this year, striking a composed halfcentury off 57 balls to guide India A to a series win in the 50-over series over Australia A. Walking in with the side in trouble at 157/6 after Minnu Manis dismissal, Tanuja steadied the innings with a knock that included three boundaries. She stitched a vital 62run eighthwicket stand with Prema Rawat, who hit an enterprising 32 not out and ensured India A crossed the line to seal the series. We were discussing at that time how deep we can take the game. We were discussing whether 5 runs are enough for now in an over. We didn't take much risk at that time. We made 5-6 runs in every over in the 6-7 overs phase. But after that, when Prema and I decided to accelerate, it wasn't just me who accelerated. We were playing from both sides in the same way, and I think that was the biggest thing, said Tanuja. Asked about her bowling mantra, Tanuja said, I try to bowl wicket-to-wicket as much as I can because if you bowl wicket-to-wicket, the chances of scoring a run for the batter are very low and the likelihood of picking a wicket are very high. So I try to bowl wicket-to-wicket as much as I can. If one doesn't get a run from my side, the batter is under pressure. If I don't get a run or a wicket from my side, I think a wicket will come from the other side. It creates pressure on the batter, and I then think anyone, including me, could get a wicket from the other side. Asked about her bowling mantra, Tanuja said, I try to bowl wicket-to-wicket as much as I can because if you bowl wicket-to-wicket, the chances of scoring a run for the batter are very low and the likelihood of picking a wicket are very high. So I try to bowl wicket-to-wicket as much as I can. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Tanuja signed off by crediting support from her father to play cricket professionally. I think the support of the family is the most important. My father loved cricket since childhood. He used to play cricket with us. We used to play together in school or with my siblings at home. One day, he saw my huge interest in cricket and then got to know about the HPCA cricket academy in Dharamshala, and he put me in it. Article Source: IANS

Cricket: Hard Work Of Legends Has Led Us To 2025 Being A Memorable Year, Says Meghna Singh

ODI World Cup: India pacer Meghna Singh said 2025 will be remembered as a landmark year for womens cricket, adding that the hard work of past legends for laying the foundation of the sport in the country has led to new milestones and broader recognition. The year 2025 will forever be remembered as an epic year for womens cricket in India starting from retaining the U19 Womens T20 World Cup title, then winning the 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka, emerging victorious in both white-ball series in England, and clinching the biggest title of them all the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup on home soil. Yes, it's a very memorable year for women's cricket. Obviously, we have put in a lot of hard work in the past. Our old players and legends had put in a lot of hard work, and that is what has brought us to where we are today, said Meghna in an exclusive conversation with IANS, on the sidelines of an event by OneDice on Thursday. Since her debut in 2021, Meghna has played a Test, 17 ODIs, and nine T20Is, apart from playing in the Womens T20 Challenge and Womens Premier League. Hailing from Bijnor in Uttar Pradesh, Meghna stated her evolution as a player has been huge. When you start your journey for the first time, you set an aim that you want to make a career in this field, and after that, you start that thing. So, gradually, there is a little struggle, you have to practice daily, and work on that thing daily. So, these are the small things that make you successful in the future. The fan meet that we had today, from there we have got to know that there will be a lot of changes for cricket in the future. When you start your journey for the first time, you set an aim that you want to make a career in this field, and after that, you start that thing. So, gradually, there is a little struggle, you have to practice daily, and work on that thing daily. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She signed off by hoping to give her best for whichever side picks her during the WPL mega auction on November 27 in New Delhi. I don't have any expectations; I just want to give my best to the team that I get a chance to play for. Article Source: IANS

Just Like 1983 Win Changed Mens Cricket, 2025 Triumph Will Redefine Womens Game In India, Says DDCA Director Shyam Sharma

DDCA Director Shyam Sharma: The Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) director Shyam Sharma said Indias 2025 Womens ODI World Cup triumph is a watershed moment, saying the way the 50-over trophy win in 1983 reshaped mens cricket, the same will now happen for womens cricket in the country. This is very big and humungous. With the way Sachin wrote and the thought that has been in the minds of many Indians, it is that the way the 1983 World Cup win changed the face of mens cricket in India, this World Cup win will change the profile of womens cricket in the country. This era hasnt begun now it's been going on for the last five-six years. When Jay Shah was BCCI Secretary, womens cricket got wings. He got (international) match fees equalised and began the WPL, a platform which began giving recognition to women cricketers, and people have got to know who are the players and what their skillsets are. People previously used to know only 2-3 players, now around 17.5 crore have seen the matches. Now we get 100 calls every day from parents asking what age we should send them to academies. Cricket has become a career for girls, and its the way forward for all. Right now, that happiness hasnt sunk in yet, and in the words of the Prime Minister, there are more milestones to achieve, said Sharma in an exclusive conversation with IANS, on the sidelines of an event by OneDice on Thursday. Delhi had representation in the Womens ODI World Cup winning squad via opener Pratika Rawal and has dual presence in the national womens selection committee via former players current panel chairperson Amita Sharma and Jaya Sharma. Sharma hoped that Delhi CM Rekha Gupta would announce a reward soon for Pratika. It is great and joyful news for Delhi that Amita Sharma and Jaya Sharma are the two national womens selectors from Delhi. But the girls from Delhi, like Pratika Rawal, are doing well, as are other girls from all over India. I am just waiting for the day when our Chief Minister will announce the award for Pratika because every other state has already announced it, but only Pratika is left, said Sharma. In the light of the Womens ODI World Cup win, Sharma also said about his wish to now see pay parity in central contracts. I have that dream, and let's see how much time it takes. But I have a dream that one day, when the girls will also get the same (central) contact fees as the boys. In the coming 10 years, you will see that mixed teams will also be formed. Not in the BCCI or ICC tournaments, but in the outside tournaments, like if 8 boys are playing, then 3 girls will play mandatorily, and such a time will come, and competition will be very hard. Delhi has emerged as a significant hub for women's cricket development, and Sharma said the work under President Rohan Jaitley has been bearing good results. We have been doing a lot. I am telling you, Rohan Jaitley has tried a lot. He said that previously, whatever was left from the men's team uniform would go to the women's team. But he did it separately for them. He has given them a 5-star hotel stay and a lot of facilities. We say that we have made the infrastructure so good for the girls, and if they do well, then Delhi cricket will move forward. That's what we think, and we at Delhi cricket are working hard for it. Our 110 clubs have been subsidized by INR 2.5 lakh per year. After that, Rohan said that whoever fields a women's cricket team will get INR 1 lakh extra. This is an incentive, and that's how we are promoting women's cricket. Delhi has emerged as a significant hub for women's cricket development, and Sharma said the work under President Rohan Jaitley has been bearing good results. We have been doing a lot. I am telling you, Rohan Jaitley has tried a lot. He said that previously, whatever was left from the men's team uniform would go to the women's team. But he did it separately for them. He has given them a 5-star hotel stay and a lot of facilities. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But after that, we made a women's cricket league (by DDCA), in which 645 girls participated. This time, when our DPL auction happened, our pool was more than 200. This shows how much girls are participating and moving forward, and the future of women's cricket is very good, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

It Was Our Luck That We Were Able To Lift The Trophy, Says India All-rounder Sneh Rana

Prime Minister Narendra Modi: It's been nearly three weeks since India lifted the ICC Womens ODI World Cup title, and the euphoria around the epochal victory hasnt died down. Off-spin bowling all-rounder Sneh Rana candidly said that winning the trophy was in their luck and that years of persistent efforts culminating in a title win left her with a great feeling. It feels good to lift the World Cup trophy after years of hard work. Our former cricketers worked very hard for this. Unfortunately, they could not lift the trophy. It was our luck that we were able to lift the trophy, and being able to do that feels very good, said Sneh on the sidelines of an event organised by OneDice on Thursday. Visuals of Snehs homecoming in Dehradun have gone viral on social media, and Sneh said seeing pride in her mothers eyes made for an unforgettable visual. It was very unexpected for me. All my relatives came to pick me up, and it felt thrillingly good. I will never forget the pride and tears of happiness in my mother's eyes. Its a scene that I wont ever forget. Sneh also revealed the team song sung after the win at DY Patil Stadium was made during the 2022 Commonwealth Games in Birmingham, and the side was waiting since then for the perfect moment to unveil it. We made it in the Commonwealth Games four (three) years ago. We were going to release it. But we promised each other that we would release it when we get a good opportunity. Finally, after four (three) years, we were able to release it after winning the World Cup. After the World Cup, the side also met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Droupadi Murmu in the national capital. We talked a lot with the Prime Minister about our struggles and the World Cup. He said a lot about mental health. It felt good to hear. He said that mental health needs awareness, and we talked about it, so it was good, said Sneh. Perhaps most significantly, the World Cup win has begun a shift in societal perceptions in communities across India, especially in villages as seen from the grand welcome Kranti Gaud and N Shree Charani got in Ghuwara and Kadapa respectively. Many people said that they won't be able to do it, or why are they playing? But we proved them wrong. After seeing them, I saw their celebrations when they got back to their villages, and their whole villages came to celebrate. I am very hopeful that some of them will come forward from these areas. People's thinking about not sending girls forward (in their lives and careers) will change, and that will finally be a win. This is their decision -whether they are playing for enjoyment or choosing it as a profession. Whatever you are doing, do it with love. If you want to choose a career, just work very hard and never give up, she added. Sneh, who made her India debut in 2014, highlighted the dramatic shift in public interest and support for womens cricket from then to now. I have seen it evolve a lot, because when I started, I saw empty stadiums. When there were free tickets, we saw that the stadiums would still be empty. But today in the same stadiums, there is a maara-maari (intense demand) to get tickets for watching womens cricket games. The journey from there to now has changed a lot for womens cricket. Next up is the WPL mega auction on November 27 in New Delhi, and Sneh, who was released by Royal Challengers Bengaluru after coming in as a replacement for the retained Shreyanka Patil, isnt thinking much about which side will pick her. I do not have any expectations. I feel bad when that gets hurt. I just do my job and will do whatever comes next. I do not think about the future or things not in my control. At the same time, Sneh talked about the critical role WPL is playing in nurturing talent for the Indian team. WPL has a big role. It is a world stage platform. Many of our youngsters have come from WPL, like Kranti Gaud and N Shree Charani. I do not have any expectations. I feel bad when that gets hurt. I just do my job and will do whatever comes next. I do not think about the future or things not in my control. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sneh will now head to Sangli, Maharashtra, to attend vice-captain Smriti Mandhanas wedding with her long-term boyfriend Palaash Muchhal, set to happen on November 23. We will celebrate (the news of her wedding) there. We are happy now. She is the first girl from our team to get married. We are very excited to attend her wedding. Article Source: IANS

AUS vs ENG: Stats Preview ahead of the Australia vs England 1st Test Ashes 2025-26 in Perth

AUS vs ENG 1st Test, Ashes 2025-26, Test Approaching Milestones and Records :The Ashes 2025-26 fever is on, and the first test between Australia cricket team and England cricket team is all set to get underway on November 21 (Friday) at Perth Cricket Stadium. Australia have the urn, and they have had it in the last four consecutive Ashes series. This is the first test series in Australia for Ben Stokes and Brendon McCullum. So, there will be high hopes from this promising duo, who have made the Bazball approach a trending style in test cricket. England have not won a single test in Australia since 2010/11, so they need something special to record a win in Australia. The hosts are hurt after injuries to Josh Hazlewood and captain Pat Cummins. They have given the debut cap to Brendan Doggett and Jake Weatherald. So, there will be some nerves when Australia take the field. But for England, these players have been playing together for a while now. So, they have an outside chance to start the Ashes 2025-26 with a win. This match will also have some records which will be on the line. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the Australia vs England 1st Test Ashes 2025-26 clash at Perth Cricket Stadium. AUS vs ENG 1st Test, Ashes 2025-26: Approaching Test Records and Test Cricket Milestones Ahead of the AUS vs ENG 1st Test atPerth Cricket Stadium 6 - Ben Stokes is just six runs away from going past Andrew Strauss (7037) in Test cricket. 3 - No. 1 ranked Test batter Harry Brook is just three sixes away from completing 50 sixes in tests. 180 - Harry Brook is very near to making history. He has scored 2820 runs in 50 innings and needs 180 runs in two innings to become the joint-fastest English batter to complete 3000 test runs. He will also be the third-fastest overall. 33 - Steve Smith is just 33 runs away from completing 10500 runs in tests and will become only the fourth Australian to do so. 37 - Travis Head has 3963 runs in 60 tests. He needs 37 more runs to complete 4000 test runs. 1 - Joe Root has 39 Test centuries, and one more will make him only the fourth batter with 40 or more Test centuries. 1 - Root has 66 half-centuries in tests, and one more will make him the batter with the second-most test hundreds ever. 2 - Nathan Lyon is near history. He has 562 wickets, and two more will help him surpass the great Glenn McGrath, making him the second-highest wicket-taker for Australia in tests and the sixth-highest overall. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 4 - Mitchell Starc needs four wickets to surpass legendary Curtly Ambrose (405) in tests.

Steve Smith Warns Australia Must keep Stokes Quiet As Ashes Begins In Perth

Steve Smith: Australias stand-in captain Steve Smith has identified England captain Ben Stokes as the man to keep quiet as his side gears up for the opening Test of the Ashes at Perth Stadium on Friday. With regular skipper Pat Cummins injured, Smith will lead Australia for the 41st time in Test cricket and is acutely aware of the threat Englands talisman poses. He (Stokes) has done a terrific job with England over the last couple of years, Smith said on the eve of the first Test. Potentially, hes someone who you don't want to get riled up. He has had a few performances against us where he's either taken the game away from us or pulled it back (for England). He's a quality performer, whether it's bat, ball, or in the field. He's always in the game, giving his 110%. Hopefully, we can keep him quiet. England enter the series with growing confidence under the Stokes-Brendon McCullum leadership, known for its aggressive cricketing philosophy. Smith acknowledged the challenges of countering Englands high-tempo approach. I think it's just playing the tempo of the game that needs to be played at each certain time, he said. I've no doubt throughout this series, there's going to be periods of the game where a few of their batters get off and they score some runs quickly. And for us, it might be about being a little bit defensive in those moments. And then finding the moments where we can attack a bit more and just playing the game, really, that's in front of us, and not letting it drift too far. Australia will also hand debuts to Jake Weatherald and Brendan Doggett in the series opener, with Weatherald set to partner Usman Khawaja at the top. Smith said the 31-year-old left-hander has earned his Baggy Green through outstanding domestic form. I watched him bat in the nets pretty closely the last few days. They are pretty tricky nets fast, bouncy, and a lot of seam, Smith noted. The guys were charging in and bowling really fast (in the nets). He took it on and got in really good positions He has been selected for his performances in the last 18 months in particular. He has batted exceptionally well at the top of the order for Tasmania, and hopefully he can bring that to the Test arena. I'm really excited for him, and he has worked hard for a long period of time, and he is going to complement Usman Khawaja pretty well up top, he added. Australia have won four of their five Tests at the Perth Stadium but suffered a defeat to India in their last appearance. Smith believes conditions will be favourable but insists adaptability will be crucial. It looks like a good wicket. Looks pretty similar to last summer. It's going to have some decent pace and bounce in it. It's probably not as hot as it was last year, so potentially may not crack up as much as it did, he said. Australia have won four of their five Tests at the Perth Stadium but suffered a defeat to India in their last appearance. Smith believes conditions will be favourable but insists adaptability will be crucial. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With sold-out crowds for the opening three days, Smith said the anticipation around the series adds to the excitement. I think it's a great venue. I'm super excited that the first three days are sold out. This series has been on people's radar for a long time. I think it's a nice place to start the summer. Article Source: IANS

Deepti, Wolvaardt, Ecclestone, Healy in marquee set to kick off WPL 2026 mega auction

A total of 277 players (83 overseas) will vie for a maximum of 73 slots (23 overseas) in the auction in Delhi on November 27

2nd Test: Mushfiqur, Litton Centuries Power Bangladesh Before Spinners Seize Control Against Ireland

Shere Bangla National Stadium: Centuries by seasoned batters Mushfiqur Rahim and Litton Das propelled Bangladesh to a strong position on the second day of the second Test, before the hosts spinners reduced Ireland to 98 for 5 in reply to the home sides 476 at the Shere Bangla National Stadium, Mirpur on Thursday. Mushfiqur, unbeaten on 99 overnight, became only the eleventh batter to score a hundred in his 100th Test, bringing up his 13th century with a single off the ninth ball of the day. He added only a few more before falling for 106, caught at second slip off debutant Matthew Humphreys. Litton later reached his own century in the first session, taking a bold route with a six and a four through the nineties. His partnership with Mushfiqur, worth 123 runs for the sixth wicket, completed Bangladeshs third century stand in a row. Irelands bowlers had started the day brightly as Andy McBrine completed his second six-wicket haul in Tests, both achieved at the Shere Bangla Stadium. Humphreys and Gavin Hoey picked up two wickets each, marking the first time Irelands spinners claimed all ten wickets in a Test innings. McBrine eventually ended the innings by trapping Khaled Ahmed lbw with 30 minutes left in the second session. But Irelands batting effort faltered almost immediately. Paul Stirling gave the visitors early momentum with a burst of boundaries, including a slog-swept six off Taijul Islam, but he departed lbw to Khaled for 27. Captain Andy Balbirnie followed for 21, edging Hasan Murad to slip. Cade Carmichael became Mehidy Hasan Mirazs first victim, lbw after staying deep in the crease. Murad then delivered the ball of the day an arm-ball that slid past Curtis Camphers defence before Taijul trapped Harry Tector lbw for 14, leaving Ireland in deep trouble. By stumps, debutant Stephen Doheny (2*) and Lorcan Tucker (11*) were holding on, but Bangladeshs spinners Murad with two, Miraz and Taijul with one each had already placed the hosts firmly on top. Murad then delivered the ball of the day an arm-ball that slid past Curtis Camphers defence before Taijul trapped Harry Tector lbw for 14, leaving Ireland in deep trouble. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bangladesh 476 all out in 141/1 overs (Litton Das 128, Mushfiqur Rahim 106; Andy McBrine 6-109, Gavin Hoey 2-115, Matthew Humphreys 2-151) lead Ireland 98/5 in 38 overs (Paul Stirling 27, Andrew Balbirnie 21; Hasan Murad 2-10) by 378 runs Article Source: IANS

Rajapaksa in for his first T20I since January after SL bowl against Zimbabwe

Sri Lanka also handed a T20I debut to Eshan Malinga, with Dasun Shanaka captaining in place of Charith Asalanka, who has flown back home

Australia vs England, 1st Test- Who will win today AUS vs ENG match?

AUS vs ENG , 1st Test , Cricket Tips :The Ashes 2025 will be another action-packed edition of the thrilling test series. The first test between the two teams will take place at Perth Stadium, starting on November 21 at 7:50 AM IST. Australia have announced their playing XI, featuring two debutants in Brendan Maggott and Jake Weatherald. Captain Steven Smith is ready for the challenge, as they will miss the services of Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood. That will give the chances to other bowlers like Boland and Maggott. England have also announced a strong squad, and it will be a close battle between two top sides. AUS vs ENG: Match Details Date : November 21-25, 2025 (Friday-Tuesday) Time : 7:50 AM IST Venue : Perth Stadium, Perth AUS vs ENG: Live Streaming Details In India, the live telecast of the first Test will be available on Star Sports Networks on cable TV networks. Fans can also access the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. AUS vs ENG: Head-to-Head in Tests Total Matches : 361 Australia : 152 England : 112 Drawn : 97 AUS vs ENG: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Perth is a dream surface for the fast bowlers. They will get extra bounce with swing and seam movement. The decision of bowling has been a rewarding one at this venue, and batting with the time will get more difficult. Batting will not be easy, and adjusting to bounce and pace will be a big challenge. AUS vs ENG: Possible XIs Australia : Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Steve Smith (c), Marnus Labuschagne, Cameron Green, Travis Head, Alex Carey (wk), Brendan Doggett, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland England : Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Joe Root, Ollie Pope, Harry Brook, Ben Stokes , Jamie Smith (wk), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Mark Wood, Shoaib Bashir AUS vs ENG: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Travis Head was Player of the Match when England toured Australia last time and will be the one to watch out for. For England, Harry Brook is someone who can take on this Australian attack. Probable Best Bowler Scott Boland is someone who can bowl hard length consistently and trouble the batters. For England, Jofra Archer is back, and he will be at his fierce best. Today Match Prediction : Australia are very strong at home and will have an edge starting the first test in Perth. AUS vs ENG Match 1st Test, Today Match AUS vs ENG, AUS vs ENG Prediction, AUS vs ENG Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Australia vs England 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.

Kotak Hopeful On Gills Recovery, Slams agenda-driven Criticism Of Gambhir Ahead Of Second Test

In T20s: Indias batting coach Sitanshu Kotak has offered guarded optimism on skipper Shubman Gills fitness even as he launched a fierce defence of head coach Gautam Gambhir amid growing scrutiny following Indias 30-run defeat to South Africa in the first Test in Kolkata. Gill, who suffered a neck spasm during the opening match and did not train on Thursday, will undergo a key fitness test on Friday that will determine his availability for the second Test beginning Saturday in Guwahati. See, he is definitely recovering really well, because I also met him yesterday, Kotak said. Now, the decision will be taken tomorrow evening, because the physios and doctors have to decide whether, even if he is fully recovered, there's a chance of the spasm recurring during the match. That is very important. If there is a doubt, then I am sure he will rest for one more game because it won't help the team otherwise. A player like Shubman, and he's the captain, so any team would miss him. Kotak added that while the Indian team would sorely miss its captain, the squad has the depth to cover for him. But if he is missing out because of injury, we have batters and plenty of good players. They are professionals; they should come and perform for the team. We all wish he plays, but if he doesn't, we will definitely have a good replacement and maybe the guy coming in will score a hundred. If Gill sits out, Dhruv Jurel who batted at No. 4 in Kolkata is among the options. Jurel batted at No. 4, so he is one option. But until we know about Shubman, there is no point in discussing who will play. Once we know, and once we see the wicket tomorrow, we will think about the best combination. Kotak also stressed how Gills absence influenced the first Test. In the last game, nobody discussed much about what our chances would have been had Shubman batted in both innings. The second innings may not have even mattered. If in the first innings he had batted and we had one partnership, with a 100-run lead, we would have been fine. That's not an excuse, but a reality that he couldn't bat in two innings. Kotak hits back at criticism of Gambhir Kotak reserved his strongest words for those targeting Gambhir after Indias fourth home Test loss in a year. Gautam Gambhir, Gautam Gambhir (criticism) is being done. I am saying this because I am a staff member and I feel bad. That's not the way, he said, insisting that some reactions are agenda-driven. Maybe some people individually have agendas. Good luck to them, but it is very bad. He questioned why only Gambhir was being attacked when players also faltered. No one is saying that this batsman did this, this bowler did that, or we can do something different in batting. Kotak praised the head coach for taking responsibility for the turning track at Eden Gardens. Gautam said that he took all the blame on himself. He said that he took the blame because he felt that he should not blame the curators. Technical concerns and changing batting mindsets Kotak acknowledged that South Africa adapted better to the same conditions while explaining how modern batting, influenced heavily by T20 cricket, has altered technique. Technical concerns and changing batting mindsets Also Read: Live Cricket Score On the technical shift, he elaborated: In a Test match, you rely a lot on footwork. In T20s and in power hitting, you focus a lot on creating an early base. So, there will be no footwork in creating an early base. Article Source: IANS

Lanning century leads Stars' domination over Sixers

Kim Garth picked up four wickets in her two overs to trigger a collapse

All-round Graham helps Hurricanes down Renegades and go to the top

She picked up 3 for 23 and then hit a crucial 14 not out in a rain-curtailed chase to maintain Hurricanes' clean slate

Next 45 Years Are Very Important For Me In Test Cricket, Says Kuldeep Yadav

Follow The Blues: India spinner Kuldeep Yadav believes that the next 4-5 years are very important for him in red-ball cricket, and he wants to shape those years by focusing on fitness and performance. Kuldeep, who has long been overlooked in Test cricket, acknowledged that playing across formats for India is a luxury and he is enjoying every bit of it. I am very clear as an attacking bowler, I know my role over the years. The coach and the captain have given me a lot of clarity and support. I always keep an attacking mindset and bowl accordingly. Thats my job: taking wickets. Thats how they look at me, the spinner said on JioStars Follow The Blues. Everyone loves Test cricket. Its a format that everyone enjoys, but its also very challenging. Obviously, you want to play in all formats, but if you get a chance to play Test cricket, you enjoy it. Playing in all formats for India is a luxury. The next 45 years are very important for me in Test cricket, so I will focus on maintaining my fitness and keep performing like this. As India are gearing up for the second Test against South Africa in Guwahati, pacer Mohammed Siraj said that opponents like the Proteas possess a lot of challenges and he enjoys them on the field. When youre playing against a good team, and youre bowling against good batsmen and taking their wickets, you get a lot of confidence. Because when you play against a strong team, you quickly realise where youre making a mistake. So, its good that Im playing against a team like South Africa. Its a lot of fun. In Guwahati, which is making its debut as a Test venue, the tea will be taken before lunch as the play will start 30 minutes earlier at 9 am to utilise the maximum daylight, as the sun sets early in the eastern part of the country. India batter Sai Sudharsan spoke on the same and said it is exciting for them as well. I dont mind having tea before lunch, I already drink tea during lunch, so Ill probably enjoy it. Of course, its new, but well get used to it. Its exciting to explore. South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj shared his thoughts on the tea session being earlier than lunch, saying, We actually heard about it recently. Its an interesting one, but you can understand the thinking behind it. Sunlight becomes a factor, so theyre trying to maximise playing time. We respect the rules put in place, and were here to compete and give our best as a South African unit. South Africa batter Aiden Markram shared a different opinion and said he is not a fan of early starts in Test cricket. South Africa spinner Keshav Maharaj shared his thoughts on the tea session being earlier than lunch, saying, We actually heard about it recently. Its an interesting one, but you can understand the thinking behind it. Sunlight becomes a factor, so theyre trying to maximise playing time. We respect the rules put in place, and were here to compete and give our best as a South African unit. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India lost the series opener at Eden Gardens by 30 runs on Sunday and will aim to level the series 1-1 in Guwahati. Article Source: IANS

England hold off on naming final XI for Perth Test

Ben Stokes waiting for final look at pitch before making call on all-pace attack

Chopra Backs Indian Team To Adapt Quicker To Guwahati Pitch Despite Many Unknowns

ODI World Cup: There are many vital elements of intrigue with the ACA Stadium in Guwahati becoming India's 28th Test venue when the second India-South Africa game begins on Saturday. With India having a 30-run humbling loss on a spin-friendly pitch inside three days at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata, how the surface would behave in Guwahati is the cynosure of everyones eyes. The stadium had been one of the five venues for the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup and aided the batters to make runs, as well as offer a lot of turn to spinners. But when it comes to red-ball cricket, an early morning start means moisture in the air will be there for an extended period and could make batting more difficult, thus helping the seamers. Former India opener Aakash Chopra has backed the hosts to adapt to the conditions quicker than South Africa, while admitting the unusually early start, danger of losing overs in the final session and the pitchs nature having an element of unknown makes things far more interesting in deciding the games result. Yes, it is interesting actually because this is having a start time of 9 am. When we used to play in Assam in November-December, then we used to look for start at 8:30 because it gets dark very early in the evening. So, in the end, the overs would be lost. I feel that no matter how much we try, we will lose overs. So, that will be a challenge for both teams, as they would want to get all the overs done for the day. It would also be on their mind because if the pitch is good to play on, where there is an equal contest for the bat and ball, like we saw in Delhi that it took 5 days to win a match and if you keep losing 10-15 overs every day, then by the end of the 4th day, you have lost more than half a day, which is 60% of the overs. So, I think that will be a challenge for both the teams in terms of how they go through their overs, said Chopra, a JioStar expert, while replying to an IANS query, during a virtual media day on Thursday. With Guwahati having both red and black soil pitches on offer, it adds to the mystery of the pitchs behaviour. Plus, it is a new pitch. No one has any idea how Test cricket will be played in Guwahati because it is a new Test venue. Of course, first-class cricket has already happened here. But how the Test will unfold will be a question in everyone's mind because we often say that home conditions are beneficial when the conditions are familiar to you. But if you are playing there for the first time, be it Shubman Gill or Sai Sudharsan or Rishabh Pant or Dhruv Jurel, and the pitch is not as good for them as it is for Temba Bavuma or Ryan Rickelton, then it feels like there is no home advantage. But perhaps it is not as good as it can be in other venues. So, it is a challenge and a slightly uncharted territory for both teams. While it is correct that we are still playing in India and that advantage cannot be taken away from us, as we grew up playing on these kinds of surfaces. But Guwahati might be a different one, though the red and black soil for the pitches there must have come from somewhere in India, he added. In a rare adjustment, the lunch and tea breaks will swap positions, forcing players to rethink their dietary intake and normal routine. Despite all this, Chopra has backed India to bounce back and level the series 1-1. We would like to believe and back ourselves to know these conditions or adapt a lot faster even if we find them slightly different as compared to, say, somebody who is brought up in Johannesburg and has played all his cricket at the Wanderers ground. For him to come here and adapt will be tough. So we would like to assume and believe that it is going to be a lot tougher. So, yes, it is a new challenge for both teams. But you need to back the Indian players to get the most out of it and adapt to it relatively quicker than the opposition, he said. With moisture in the air and on the pitch during the early morning session, it can make life difficult for anyone who loses the toss. It would mean the losing side at the toss will need to negotiate tricky conditions longer than usual before the surface settles, thus adding another layer of complexity to the contest. Though Chopra said in jest that talking about the tosss importance wont have any change in Indias bad luck with the toss result, he also felt that if the losing side at the toss survives the opening session unscathed, then it might be a blessing in disguise. See, again, it could be a blessing in disguise if what you are saying is true and it can't be a better thing. It's because when you win the toss in India, no one gives you bowling. No matter how much data is available historically, but when you see there is no grass or no live grass on the pitch, and there is no or limited moisture, it is very difficult to actually win the toss and bowl first. Because if the first session goes well, then the batting will be good later on and maybe the fourth innings is going to be the toughest part of the game. So, since we lose tosses more than we win far more, it might actually be a blessing in disguise. See, again, it could be a blessing in disguise if what you are saying is true and it can't be a better thing. It's because when you win the toss in India, no one gives you bowling. No matter how much data is available historically, but when you see there is no grass or no live grass on the pitch, and there is no or limited moisture, it is very difficult to actually win the toss and bowl first. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch all the action from the second Test of South Africa's tour of India 2025, from November 22, 9 am IST onwards, live on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS

Gill set to miss Guwahati Test against South Africa; Pant to stand in as captain

India's Test captain has been advised more rest to avoid recurrence of neck spasms

Anyone Who Believes Americas A City, Doesnt Bother Me: Smiths Brutal Dig At Panesar Ahead Of Ashes Opener

Steve Smith: Australias stand-in skipper Steve Smith delivered a harsh dig at Monty Panesar on the former England spinners 'sandpaper' row comment ahead of the 2025 Ashes series. Panesar had previously stated that England should make Smith feel guilty regarding his involvement in the Sandpapergate, ball-tampering scandal against South Africa, which led to the batter losing his position as Australia's full-time captain in 2018. Say something like, I dont think its ethical that hes the captain, I dont think he played the game fairly. Really get into him and make him feel guilty about it. Make him feel like, theyre probably right, I shouldnt be here, I shouldnt be doing this, Panesar had said. When questioned about the former English cricketers comments during the pre-match press conference ahead of the 1st Test here, Smith dismissed Panesar's comments and even mockingly referenced his 2019 appearance on a celebrity edition of BBC Mastermind, where he got only one correct answer. I'm going to go off topic here. Who of you in the room has seen Mastermind and Monty Panesar on that? Any of you? Those of you that have will understand where I'm coming from. If you haven't, do yourself a favour because it is pretty comical. Anyone who believes that Athens is in Germany, Oliver Twist is a season of the year, and America is a city, it doesn't really bother me those comments. That's as far as I'll go with that one, Smith said. Smith received a 12-month international cricket suspension from Cricket Australia and lost the captaincy under a broader leadership ban after the Sandpapergate incident in South Africa. I'm going to go off topic here. Who of you in the room has seen Mastermind and Monty Panesar on that? Any of you? Those of you that have will understand where I'm coming from. If you haven't, do yourself a favour because it is pretty comical. Anyone who believes that Athens is in Germany, Oliver Twist is a season of the year, and America is a city, it doesn't really bother me those comments. That's as far as I'll go with that one, Smith said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The much-anticipated Ashes series begins on Friday at Perth Stadium. Article Source: IANS

Mushfiqur Rahim Enters Exclusive Centurion Club In 100th Test

Mushfiqur Rahim: Bangladesh stalwart Mushfiqur Rahim has joined an elite group of cricketers by scoring a century in his 100th Test appearance. Rahim, the first Bangladeshi to reach the milestone of 100 Test matches, produced a gritty 106 off 214 balls to put his side in control of the second Test against Ireland in Dhaka. With this knock, he joins an exclusive club featuring Colin Cowdrey, Javed Miandad, Gordon Greenidge and Graeme Smith all of whom reached three figures in their respective 100th Tests. Among the 11 players to achieve this distinction, Ricky Ponting remains a standout, having struck centuries in both innings of his 100th Test against South Africa in Sydney in 2006. Before Rahim, the most recent additions to the list were Joe Root in 2021 and David Warner in 2022. Bangladesh, having chosen to bat first, closed Day 1 on 292 for 4, with Rahim stranded on 99. The 38-year-old brought up his 13th Test hundred early on Day 2, an innings decorated with five boundaries, strengthening Bangladeshs bid for a series sweep. Bangladesh seized control as Rahim and Litton Das combined for a crucial 108-run stand for the fifth wicket, with the seasoned pair effectively putting the game beyond Irelands reach. Wicketkeeper-batter Litton Das struck 128 while Mominul Haque scored a half-century to steer Bangladesh to 476 in their first innings. Bangladesh, having chosen to bat first, closed Day 1 on 292 for 4, with Rahim stranded on 99. The 38-year-old brought up his 13th Test hundred early on Day 2, an innings decorated with five boundaries, strengthening Bangladeshs bid for a series sweep. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The hosts entered the match with a 10 lead after an innings-and-47-run victory in the opening Test in Sylhet. Article Source: IANS

Weve Been Building Towards This Moment, Says McCullum Ahead Of Ashes Opener

England Cricket: England head coach Brendon McCullum believes his team is prepared for the Ashes series that could be 'defining' for them. Since taking charge in 2022, McCullum and captain Ben Stokes have rejuvenated the England Test team, and the former New Zealand captain said the Englishmen have been building to this moment come the first Test in Perth starting on Friday. There's nothing bigger than what we're about to come into. This team has been together for a good couple of years and we have been building towards this moment. It is the biggest stage and it is the brightest lights. It is a series that could define teams, the people and players within it. That's OK. You know you're ready, you know you have the game to compete at this level. Stay together, play the style you have become accustomed to and we'll see in a couple of months where we land, McCullum told BBC Sport. England are set to confirm their XI for the first Test on Thursday, with spinner Shoaib Bashir likely to be excluded from the 12-man squad announced on Wednesday. This suggests the tourists will feature a five-man pace attack, likely the fastest they've assembled for a Test match. I'm super excited and probably a little bit more relaxed now than I was a few weeks ago. We've got our team to the start line. I feel like our horse is going to run well. Whether we find another horse in the race that is better than us, who knows, he added. After McCullum and Stokes joined in 2022, they transformed England's approach to the game. They assembled a new team featuring several young players and achieved notable series victories at home against New Zealand and South Africa, as well as against the Kiwis and Pakistan. However, England have not secured a win in a high-profile five-Test series against either Australia or India, including a 2-2 draw in the last Ashes series on home soil in 2023. England have not secured a single Test victory in Australia since their last series win there 14 years ago. For this team, it will define the progress we've made. For Stokesy to be able to lead an England team to an Ashes win away from home would be huge. We understand all of that stuff, but it's about living in the moment and dealing with what comes. We'll be challenged on this tour. We'll have good days and bad days. As long as we keep moving towards the target, then we'll give ourselves the best chance, McCullum stated. However, England have not secured a win in a high-profile five-Test series against either Australia or India, including a 2-2 draw in the last Ashes series on home soil in 2023. England have not secured a single Test victory in Australia since their last series win there 14 years ago. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia XI for 1st Test: Usman Khawaja, Jake Weatherald, Marnus Labuschagne, Steve Smith (captain), Travis Head, Cameron Green, Alex Carey, Mitchell Starc, Nathan Lyon, Scott Boland, Brendan Doggett. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: England Look To Silence Australia, Crowd & Critics In Perth

Star Sports Network: Australia and England are set to renew their rivalry when they clash in the opening Test of the Ashes series at the Optus Stadium in Perth. On Friday, in the early hours of the morning, Brendon McCullum and his team will start their campaign to achieve something no England team has managed since the glory days of 2011: winning the Ashes overseas. Furthermore, England have not won any Test matches in Australia during that period. Many of their trips to Australia over the past 15 years have been disappointing, often resulting in some of the most one-sided matches imaginable. However, with McCullum and Stokes leading and having dedicated years to developing their philosophy, many believe this is Englands best chance to win the urn in years. The duo focus on aggressive batting and bowling, high release points, tall players and a positive team spirit. Australia's main goal is simply to win and it's their priority in everything. They've recently been led by a new head coach, under whom they've secured 25 wins in 41 Test matches, marking a notable improvement from their previous performance, and promoting a message of excellence. Understandably, this situation can be confusing for the Aussies. Australia are likely nearing the end of an era featuring modern cricket giants. This team has accomplished nearly everything possible in the sport, yet it often feels underrated in the broader history of cricket. Securing another home series victory would be a fitting farewell for this squad. England and Australia are leading the way in the Bazball era. They top the worlds Test run-rate charts, though they are nearly a full run apart. The key lies in the details. England has challenged a long-standing Test cricket rule that playing the good balls is essential with remarkable consistency. The Bazball approach has caused English batsmen to average 28.26 and score 3.17 runs per over against well-placed good-length balls from fast bowlers, just outside or on the off-stump line, surpassing most of their peers in both measures. As for the players on both sides, the hosts will be without their key pacers, Josh Hazlewood and regular skipper Pat Cummins, who have both been ruled out owing to injuries. England, meanwhile, received a late respite as Mark Wood was cleared to play the first Test. With both teams raring to go and the Aussies missing out on a couple of frontline players, its a massive opportunity for England to go one up in the series in the opener. Live Streaming details: The match will be telecast on the Star Sports Network and streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Squads: The match will be telecast on the Star Sports Network and streamed on the JioHotstar app and website in India. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England XII for first Test: Ben Stokes (c), Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Shoaib Bashir, Harry Brook, Brydon Carse, Zak Crawley, Ben Duckett, Ollie Pope, Joe Root, Jamie Smith (wk), Mark Wood. Article Source: IANS

Lee: Give Doggett the new ball ahead of Boland

The former quick said Boland could seam it off ice and not having to wait could help the debutant

Smith: If the result doesn't go our way, we can turn it around

Australia will start the Ashes without Cummins and Hazlewood and have two debutants in the XI but they aren't fretting it

Australia's injuries fuel English optimism but task ahead is huge

The home side have handed out two debuts for the first time since 2019 while there remains much interest in the Perth pitch