Meg Lanning Returns As Captain Of Melbourne Stars As Sutherland Steps Down
Big Bash League: Australian legend Meg Lanning returns as the captain for the upcoming Women's Big Bash League season 12 as she takes over the reins of Melbourne Stars from Annabel Sutherland. Lanning, who led Stars in five seasons previously, left the captaincy before WBBL 10, when Sutherland took over the role and led in two seasons. However, Sutherland has now left the role to lighten her responsibilities as Lanning returns at the helm. The club's new coach Richard Pyrah highlighted the courage Sutherland showed to relinquish the role and heaped praise on Lanning to take over the responsibility. It takes a lot of courage and humility for Annabel to recognise that the best thing for the team is for her to focus on her performance and stand aside from the captaincy, Pyrah said. The easy thing would be for her to keep the title and continue on, but this move just speaks volumes of her character. Well no doubt see the best version of Annabel, which weve seen so often on the global stage, for the Stars this season. Ive been equally as impressed by Megs attitude in embracing the new opportunity. She has captained this team before, but there is a real emphasis on Meg, Annabel and Kim sharing the workload as leaders this season, he added. Stars made it to the knockouts last season under Sutherland and now would fancy their chances of taking further strides this season, which begins on October 28. Lanning reflected on taking over the role, admitting that she did not expect the leadership hat to return to her but embraced the role with open arms. It wasnt on my radar to captain again, but I want to do whats best to help the team win, Lanning said. Weve had discussions as senior players about how we can work together to lead the team rather than it all falling on one person. We want to get the best out of each player, and we think this is the best way to do that, so Im happy to take on this role, she added. Sutherland has been in stellar form this season and has made runs across the tournaments. She scored a Test century early in January and then played a key role in Australia winning the T20 World Cup in July, before also scoring runs in the Women's Hundred and being named as the Player of the Tournament. Ive loved captaining the Stars these past two seasons, and Im really keen to continue to be a leader this season and keep developing my skills in that space, Sutherland said. I really want to contribute to the teams success in the best way I can, and I think by sharing the load with the leadership, I can hopefully make a bigger impact with the bat and ball. Ive loved captaining the Stars these past two seasons, and Im really keen to continue to be a leader this season and keep developing my skills in that space, Sutherland said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sri Lanka Squad Announced For Pakistan Tests Under Mendis
Sri Lanka has announced its 15-member squad for the upcoming ICC World Test Championship series against Pakistan. Kusal Mendis will captain the side for the first time in Tests, taking over from Dhananjaya de Silva. The series, part of the WTC cycle, begins November 9 in Pakistan.
Shubman Gill and Shafali Verma honoured with ICC Player of the Month
This is the fifth time players from the same national board have swept the men's and women's awards in a month, with Indian cricketers achieving the feat on two previous occasions
Gill, Shafali Crowned ICC Players Of The Month
India captain Shubman Gill and opener Shafali Verma have been named ICC Men's and Women's Player of the Month, respectively, for October. Gill received the award for the fifth time following his stellar performance in the ODI series against the West Indies, while Verma was recognised for her impressive show in the Asia Cup and Asian Games, marking her second win.
Nissanka's return headlines SL's Test squad against Pakistan
Pasindu Sooriyabandara retains his place ahead of Lahiru Udara while keeper Anjala Bandara could make his debut
Indias Shubman Gill and Shafali Verma have been named the ICC Mens and Womens Player of the Month for September 2026. The current India Test and ODI captain extended his record to five wins, while its the second time Shafali has collected the honour.
ICC Mourns Demise Of Former Zimbabwe Cricketer And Umpire Sarah Dambanevana
The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) on Tuesday mourned the death of former Zimbabwe womens cricketer and international umpire Sarah Dambanevana, who passed away following a brief illness at the age of 36. Dambanevana represented Zimbabwe as a fast bowler before moving into umpiring, where she became one of the countrys pioneering female match officials. In 2022, she became the first female umpire from Zimbabwe to join the ICC Development Umpires Panel. She received her first ICC appointment at the ICC U19 Womens T20 World Cup in January 2023. She made her international umpiring debut in a womens T20I between Kenya and Botswana in Gaborone on September 2, 2023. Her performances subsequently earned her selection as an official for the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2024 in the United Arab Emirates. During her career, Dambanevana officiated in 72 senior international matches, including 10 mens T20Is, 14 womens ODIs and 48 womens T20Is. Her last match was the womens T20I between Ireland and Thailand on February 1, 2026, during the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 Global Qualifier in Nepal. ICC Chairman Jay Shah expressed his condolences, describing Dambanevanas journey from representing Zimbabwe on the field to making history as an international umpire as an inspiration. We are deeply saddened by the passing of Sarah Dambanevana. Sarahs journey from representing Zimbabwe on the field of play to making history as an international umpire was an inspiration, and her achievements helped pave the way for more women to pursue careers in cricket officiating, he said in an official statement. Her contribution to the game will be remembered with great respect, and she leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire future generations. On behalf of the ICC, I extend our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends, colleagues and the Zimbabwe cricket community during this difficult time, Shah added. We are deeply saddened by the passing of Sarah Dambanevana. Sarahs journey from representing Zimbabwe on the field of play to making history as an international umpire was an inspiration, and her achievements helped pave the way for more women to pursue careers in cricket officiating, he said in an official statement. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
BCCI president Mithun Manhas says age should not be a deterrent to players' chances for the ODI World Cup 2027
Sri Lanka announce squad for Test series against Pakistan, new captain to take over
Sri Lanka have announced a 15-member squad for their two-Test tour of Pakistan in November. Kusal Mendis has been appointed as captain after Dhananjaya de Silva stepped down from the role. Meanwhile, uncapped batter Anjala...
Gill, Shafali Claim ICC Player Of The Month Awards For September 2026
Cricket World Cup: India ODI and Test captain Shubman Gill and opener Shafali Verma have been named the ICC Mens and Womens Players of the Month for September, respectively, completing a double for India for the third time in the award's history. Gill secured his fifth monthly honour after a prolific ODI series against the West Indies, extending his record for the most wins in the mens category. Verma earned her second award after playing key roles in Indias triumphs at the Womens Asia Cup and the Asian Games. Gill's latest recognition puts him alongside West Indies captain Hayley Matthews, who has also won the ICC Player of the Month award five times. His previous wins came in January and September 2023, followed by February and July 2025. The right-handed batter made a decisive contribution in Indias ODI series against the West Indies, scoring 110 in the opening match in Thiruvananthapuram as the hosts secured an eight-wicket victory to take a 1-0 lead. He followed that performance with a stunning 223 off 133 deliveries, registering the quickest double-century in ODI history and powering Indias successful chase of a 406-run target. India won by eight wickets with 39 balls remaining. It feels fantastic to win my fifth ICC Player of the Month award, and I am grateful to the panel for this honour. It was immensely satisfying to score those runs and even more special to be part of successful run chases in front of our home fans, whose support always gives us an extra boost. The pace of ODI cricket has gone up significantly, and you must think on your feet, assess the conditions quickly and adapt to the demands of the pitch and the target. With the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup in southern Africa next year, we are determined to keep raising our standards and build a strong and balanced team capable of rising to the challenges ahead, Gill said Shafali, meanwhile, continued her impressive run in major tournaments, finishing as Indias leading run-scorer in their Womens Asia Cup-winning campaign. She accumulated 360 runs at a strike rate of 184.61 and also claimed six wickets during the period. The opener carried her form into the Asian Games, scoring an unbeaten 100 against Bangladesh in the semi-final before making 48 in the final against Sri Lanka. It is Verma's second ICC Player of the Month award, following her first win in November 2025 after her match-winning performance in the Womens World Cup final against South Africa in Navi Mumbai. It is an incredible honour to win the ICC Player of the Month award again. It was immensely satisfying to play my part in our victories at the Asia Cup and the Asian Games, and winning this award makes those triumphs even more special, Shafali said. I am excited about the months ahead and determined to keep performing at my best, with the ICC Womens Champions Trophy in February next year, another tournament to look forward to. The memory of winning the World Cup is still so fresh and special, and I cant wait to be back on the field for an ICC tournament on home soil. It promises to be an unforgettable experience! she added. The September shortlists also featured India opener Abhishek Sharma and Zimbabwe captain Sikandar Raza in the mens category, while Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu and India left-arm spinner Sree Charani were nominated for the womens award. I am excited about the months ahead and determined to keep performing at my best, with the ICC Womens Champions Trophy in February next year, another tournament to look forward to. The memory of winning the World Cup is still so fresh and special, and I cant wait to be back on the field for an ICC tournament on home soil. It promises to be an unforgettable experience! she added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Kusal Mendis To Begin Test Captaincy Stint As Sri Lanka Name Squad For Pakistan Tour
ICC World Test Championship: Sri Lanka have named a 15-member squad for their two-Test tour of Pakistan in the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 20252027 cycle, with Kusal Mendis set to take charge of the red-ball side for the first time. The series will begin in Rawalpindi on November 9, before the teams move to Lahore for the second Test. The appointment marks another step in Mendis growing leadership responsibilities, having already taken charge of Sri Lankas white-ball teams earlier this year. Pathum Nissanka has been included in the touring squad, but his availability for the opening Test will depend on his recovery and medical clearance. The batter will travel with the team only if he is declared fit ahead of the series. The squad also features a maiden Test call-up for Anjala Bandara, who has earned his place in the 15-member group for the away assignment. Mendis elevation follows Dhananjaya de Silvas decision to step down as Test captain last week. De Silva had led Sri Lanka in the format since January 2024 and cited the need to hand responsibility to the next generation. Its my genuine opinion that the mantle should go down to the next generation, de Silva said in a letter he sent to Sri Lankas selection committee. The Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) Selection Committee finalised Mendis appointment at a meeting held at the boards headquarters on Thursday. The wicketkeeper-batter has considerable experience in the longest format, having played 75 Tests and scored 4,836 runs, including 10 centuries and 23 half-centuries. Mendis was appointed Sri Lankas white-ball captain in May, succeeding Charith Asalanka in the ODI role and Dasun Shanaka in T20Is. His appointment as Test skipper now places him at the helm across all three international formats. The Pakistan tour will provide Mendis with his first opportunity to lead the Test team in a competitive series, with Sri Lanka looking to make progress in the ongoing World Test Championship cycle. Mendis was appointed Sri Lankas white-ball captain in May, succeeding Charith Asalanka in the ODI role and Dasun Shanaka in T20Is. His appointment as Test skipper now places him at the helm across all three international formats. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Pollock Wants Pink Balls in Day Tests. Here's Why
Former South Africa all-rounder Shaun Pollock has called for the use of pink balls in traditional daytime Test matches to reduce playing time lost due to bad light, following interruptions in the ongoing first Test between South Africa and Australia.
Porel Breaks Down After Ton, Speaks On Rape Charges
Bengal wicketkeeper-batter Abishek Porel scored an unbeaten century in a Ranji Trophy match against Delhi, breaking down in tears afterwards and stating, 'I want to answer everyone through cricket' in response to an alleged rape case.
Melbourne Renegades sign Chloe Tryon for WBBL 12
Digital Desk | Melbourne, Oct 13 (IANS) Melbourne Renegades have strengthened their squad for the 12th edition of the Womens Big Bash League (WBBL) by securing the services of South African all-rounder Chloe Tryon, whose experience across international cricket and Australias premier womens T20 competition adds depth to both departments. The 32-year-old brings more than 15 years of international experience, with over 3,800 runs and more than 100 wickets across One-Day Internationals (ODIs) and T20 Internationals (T20Is). Her ability to deliver explosive contributions with the bat and provide breakthroughs with left-arm spin makes her a versatile option for the Renegades. Tryons international career began in 2010, when she made her South Africa debut at just 16. She made an immediate impact, claiming two wickets in her first over, including one with her first delivery a feat that remains unique in the history of the Women's T20 World Cup. Her ability to produce decisive performances was further recognised in May 2025, when she was named ICC Womens Player of the Month. The award followed a historic ODI performance in which she became the first woman to score a half-century and take a hat-trick in the same match. Tryon also arrives with considerable familiarity with the WBBL, having featured in 57 matches for the Hobart Hurricanes, Sydney Thunder and Sydney Sixers. Across those appearances, she has accumulated 869 runs at a strike rate of 128.17, including 32 sixes, while claiming 21 wickets. Her best bowling figures in the competition stand at 3-2. Renegades head coach Gavan Twining believes the South Africans ability to influence matches in different phases will provide valuable options for the team during the upcoming season. Chloe is a genuine match-winner who has performed on the biggest stages in world cricket, and weve seen first-hand what she can do in the Womens Big Bash. Her power at the back end of an innings and her left-arm spin give us real flexibility, and her experience will be valuable for our group. Were thrilled to have her in red this summer. Tryon joins a Renegades squad that already includes West Indies internationals Deandra Dottin and Hayley Matthews, alongside Australian players Sophie Molineux, Georgia Wareham and Tayla Vlaeminck. Melbourne Renegades contracted players for WBBL 12: Deandra Dottin (West Indies), Nicole Faltum, Tess Flintoff, Milly Illingworth, Sara Kennedy, Hayley Matthews (West Indies), Sophie Molineux, Olvia Porter, Chloe Tryon (South Africa), Tayla Vlaeminck, Georgia Wareham, Courtney Webb, Annie Wikman
To Avoid Further Forfeitures, BCCI Conducts Selection Trials For Various Arunachal Pradesh Teams
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) is organising selection trials for various Arunachal Pradesh mens and womens age-group and senior teams to avoid further forfeitures from them and keep them in the reckoning in the ongoing domestic season. The intervention comes after Arunachal Pradesh forfeited their opening Ranji Trophy fixture against Nagaland in Ahmedabad, alongside earlier non-participation in the Vinoo Mankad Trophy and Under-19 Womens T20 Trophy due to a legal deadlock over two factions in the Arunachal Cricket Association (ACA) in the Guwahati High Court-Itanagar Bench. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed to IANS on Tuesday that Apex Council member M. Khairul Jamal Majumdar has been appointed as convener. Yes, trials are going on in Arunachal Pradesh. The BCCI has appointed M. Khairul Jamal Majumdar (also known as Mamon) as the convener to conduct trials because we cannot allow the teams to go without participating in this seasons domestic competitions. So trials are going on in Arunachal with some independent selectors from outside the state. The association is not involved in these trials, as the BCCI is directly conducting the trials and we are trying to send the teams from Arunachal to Ranji Trophy and games in other tournaments, which will be happening in the coming days, Saikia told IANS on Tuesday. A panel of independent selectors from Assam, comprising former players Satya Gopal Chakraborty, Jayanta Chowdhury, and Deep Bora, have been tasked with conducting the trials and ensure teams are fielded from Arunachal in the Ranji Trophy, Col CK Nayudu Trophy, Senior Womens T20 Trophy and Vijay Merchant Trophy. The selectors at the trials in Arunachal are three former players from Assam - Satya Gopal Chakraborty, Jayanta Chowdhury, and Deep Bora. Chakraborty is the chairman of selectors for these trials, added Saikia. A panel of independent selectors from Assam, comprising former players Satya Gopal Chakraborty, Jayanta Chowdhury, and Deep Bora, have been tasked with conducting the trials and ensure teams are fielded from Arunachal in the Ranji Trophy, Col CK Nayudu Trophy, Senior Womens T20 Trophy and Vijay Merchant Trophy. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sunil Gavaskar has urged cricket authorities to reconsider how records are classified across international and domestic competitions. The former cricketer suggested a division-based system that could distinguish performances according to the level of opposition. The...
Steve Smith To Undergo Concussion Assessment After Helmet Blow In Durban Test
Steve Smith was hit by an Anrich Nortje bouncer early in his second innings after ducking into a short-pitched ball ball that did not rise as much as the batter anticipated.
Punjab AeroStrikers Bounce Back To Beat Ayodhya Garjan, Tamil Titans Qualify For VCL Super 6
Volleyball Champions League: Punjab AeroStrikers registered a 2-1 victory over Ayodhya Garjan in the Volleyball Champions League (VCL) at the Noida Indoor Stadium, bouncing back from a second-set loss to seal the contest with a dominant performance in the decider. The AeroStrikers started on a positive note, winning the opening set 21-18 in a closely fought battle. However, Ayodhya Garjan responded well in the second set, raising their level of play to secure a 21-16 win and bring the match level at 1-1. With the contest evenly poised, Punjab AeroStrikers took charge in the deciding set. They displayed better coordination and maintained pressure on their opponents to win the third set 21-11, completing an impressive 2-1 victory. Sanket Patil was named Player of the Match for his contribution to the AeroStrikers' win, while teammate Jaskaran Singh received the Impact Player award. Reflecting on the victory, Sanket Patil said, It was a competitive match, and Ayodhya Garjan played well to level the contest in the second set. We knew we had to regroup and execute our plans better in the decider. The team showed great coordination, stayed focused and played with confidence to finish strongly. I am happy to contribute to the win, and we will look to carry this momentum into our upcoming matches. The match was attended by Pandit Sunil Bharala, former minister of State, Government of Uttar Pradesh and former chairman of Labour Welfare Council, Uttar Pradesh, and Harshita Tomar, Indian Sailor, 2018 & 2026 Asian Games bronze medallist. Tamil Titans, meanwhile, secured a place in the Super 6 of the Volleyball Champions League (VCL) after registering a 2-1 victory over Hooghly Hitters, winning the first two sets before the Hitters fought back in the third. The Titans started well, edging out Hooghly 21-19 in the opening set. The second set proved to be an even closer contest, with both teams fighting hard for every point. With the score locked at 20-20, the Titans held their nerves to win the decisive point and clinch the set 21-20, moving within a set of victory. Hooghly Hitters showed their fighting spirit in the third set. They found their rhythm and took control of the proceedings to register a convincing 21-10 win. However, the Titans had already done enough in the first two sets to seal the match 2-1 and confirm their qualification for the Super 6. Tamil Titans' Abhishek was named Player of the Match for his performance, while teammate SR Rithuraj received the Impact Player award. Speaking about the victory and the team's qualification, Abhishek said, We are happy to have secured the win and qualified for the Super 6. It was a tough match, especially in the second set, when every point mattered. The team stayed focused, supported each other and showed composure in the crucial moments. Hooghly fought back strongly in the third set, but we are glad we could get the job done. We will now focus on preparing well for the Super 6. Tamil Titans' Abhishek was named Player of the Match for his performance, while teammate SR Rithuraj received the Impact Player award. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Australia strengthened their grip on the Durban Test against South Africa at the end of Day Four, needing just six wickets to take a 1-0 lead in the three-match ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 series Test
Jos Buttler undergoes hamstring surgery; Australia series, SA20 participation remain in doubt
Former England captain Jos Buttler has undergone surgery on his injured left hamstring. The 36-year-old confirmed the development on Monday through an Instagram post. However, neither the player nor the England Cricket Board has disclosed...
Shreyas Iyer And Co Forced To Bench Kuldeep Yadav In 3rd T20I vs West Indies? Ex-India Star Explains
India's playing XI in the third T20I against West Indies featured Arshdeep Singh, Prince Yadav, and Mayank Yadav as specialist pacers, while Nitish Kumar Reddy provided an additional fast-bowling option.
Smith To Undergo Concussion Assessment After Helmet Blow In Durban Test
Durban Test: Veteran Australia batter Steve Smith is being assessed for concussion after getting a helmet blow by Anrich Nortje's delivery and failing to take to the field in the fourth innings of the first Test against South Africa. Smith was hit by an Anrich Nortje bouncer early in his second innings after ducking into a short-pitched ball ball that did not rise as much as the batter anticipated. He was checked for concussion and was cleared to continue his innings. He was only four balls into his innings at the time. However, Smith did not return when Australia began to field, with the vice-captain expected to undergo further assessment over the next 24 hours, and Australia are hopeful he will be passed fit to return to action. Beau Webster failed to share much further information on Smith's fitness at stumps on day four, but the Australian all-rounder is hopeful that the star batter can take the field on Tuesday as the Aussies chase six more South Africa wickets and what would be a memorable Test triumph away from home. I hope hes OK, Webster said of Smith. He obviously copped a nasty knock in the head there... (we are) wishing him all the best. Hopefully, you know, hes back out with this either tomorrow or in the next Test in Gqeberha. If Smith, who has had issues with concussion and vertigo in the past, is diagnosed with a concussion by medical personnel, he would be ruled out of fielding on the fifth day of the Test. Under CA's concussion and head trauma policy, he would face a minimum 24-hour stand-down after a concussion diagnosis and may not return to cricket-related activity until clearance from a medical officer. Smith has suffered from concussion and vertigo symptoms in the past, with the right-hander famously stood down from an Ashes Test in 2019 courtesy of a Jofra Archer bouncer when Marnus Labuschagne was parachuted into the Test side as his replacement. Under CA's concussion and head trauma policy, he would face a minimum 24-hour stand-down after a concussion diagnosis and may not return to cricket-related activity until clearance from a medical officer. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Jos Buttler Undergoes Surgery, Vows Strong Comeback
England white-ball star Jos Buttler begins his recovery after hamstring surgery. He is ruled out of the Pakistan tri-series and his participation in the Australia tour is in doubt.
Jos Buttler Posts Photo From Hospital Bed, Out Of Action For A Significant Duration
Jos Buttler has vowed to return to full fitness with greater determination after undergoing surgery on his left hamstring, which he injured while batting during England's ODI series against Sri Lanka last month
Saracens sack player whose punch sparked Stokes crisis
Totoa Auvaa leaves club following a swift internal investigation into a separate incident.
India look to solidify 2027 World Cup plans, West Indies seek more bowling bite
While both teams will mainly be looking to win, they have their own questions to address
Dhir and the art of bouncing back
Former pacer Ashis recalls battles against touring Aussies
Kamboj debuts, Siraj and Reddy back as India bat
West Indies made three changes, bringing in Jewel Andrew, Matthew Forde and Gudakesh Motie
Rape-Accused Abishek Porel Breaks Down In Tears, Reacts After Ranji Trophy 100
Speaking to reporters at the end of the day's play, Abishek Porel opened up about his reaction and also broke his silence on the alleged rape case.
Fleming turns to CSK as England name coaching set-ups
England move to split backroom staff across Test and white-ball squads
Jos Buttler faces lengthy lay-off after surgery on injured hamstring
Former captain
Ollie Pope withdraws from Afghanistan Premier League T20 draft
England batter pulls out after criticism, as do Will Smeed and David Willey
Matt Renshaw Stars Again, Australia On Top As South Africa Chase 421 In 1st Test
Australia set South Africa a 421-run target and the Proteas were laboring at 102-4 after the first full day of cricket in the first test at Kingsmead on Monday.
Teen Thomas Rew youngest to receive ECB Central Contract
The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has significantly expanded its central contract list to 30 players, alongside nine development contracts, for the 2026/27 season, introducing several new faces and extending deals for key players.
I am a red-ball cricketer and played my natural game today: Rahul
Steve Smith undergoes concussion assessment after helmet blow against South Africa
Australian batter Steve Smith was assessed for concussion on the fourth day of the first Test against South Africa in Durban after being struck on the helmet by a bouncer from Anrich Nortje. The incident occurred on the fifth ball of the 13th over of Australia
New Kids In The Squad Are Undercooked: Ex-India Coach's Blunt Remark On Fielding Ability
From dropping regulation catches to letting easy boundaries slip away, the Indian fielders have not been up to the mark in the past couple of years or so.
Matt Renshaw Puts Victory In Sight For Australia
Matt Renshaw top-scored for the second time in the match and took a key wicket as Australia pushed for victory on the fourth day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Monday. South Africa, set an improbable 421 runs to win, were 102 for four at the close. Renshaw followed his marathon 190 in the first innings with a brisk 82 in the second as Australia hurried to 314 for six in 58 overs before declaring. Opening bowler Josh Hazlewood struck twice before Renshaw, a part-time off-spinner, claimed his first Test wicket when he had South African captain Temba Bavuma caught off bat and pad at short leg. Australian captain Pat Cummins had Tristan Stubbs caught behind three overs later, leaving the world Test champions with an almost impossible task on Tuesday if Bavuma is to retain an unbeaten captaincy record. Since being appointed in 2023, Bavuma has led South Africa in 12 Tests, achieving 11 wins and a draw. No other captain in Test history has had such a successful start to a captaincy career. South Africa have lost four Tests since his appointment but all happened with other players at the helm. One of the wins under Bavuma was in the World Test Championship final against Australia at Lord's in 2025. While Renshaw's first innings was notable for his patience and the way he left the ball, the big left-hander was aggressive on Monday. He hit seven fours and two sixes in facing 99 balls as Australia set out to score quickly to give themselves enough time to bowl South Africa out. The tone was set from the start of the day as Nic Maddinson, who struggled to a 33-ball duck, continued to attack the bowling as he had done at the start of the Australian second innings on Sunday. Maddinson needed just 19 balls to hurry from 17 to a Test-best 48 before he was bowled by a fast yorker from Anrich Nortje. Nortje was South Africa's most impressive bowler. He struck Steve Smith on the helmet with a bouncer which prevented Smith from taking the field at the start of South Africas second innings, and also bowled Alex Carey. Renshaw was in sight of a second century in the match when he was out to a remarkable juggling return catch by Keshav Maharaj which needed to be confirmed by an umpires review. Cummins was next in and he thrashed four sixes in scoring 32 not out off 12 balls before declaring. Brief scores: Australia 390 and 314-6 declared (N. Maddinson 48, M. Labuschagne 37, M. Renshaw 82, B. Webster 39 not out, P. Cummins 32 not out; A. Nortje 2-56, K.Maharaj 2-56). South Africa 284 and 102-4 (A. Markram 45 not out, D. Bedingham 46; J. Hazlewood 2-20) Match situation: South Africa need 319 runs to win with six wickets remaining. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Toss: Australia
Gavaskar Recalls Childhood Dream of Dismissing Gary Sobers
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar shared his childhood dream of dismissing legendary West Indies all-rounder Sir Garfield Sobers, whom he idolised as 'everybody's hero', during a conversation celebrating Sobers' life and legacy.
2 Coaches Part Ways With CSK, Join Stephen Fleming In England's Test Team Staff
Former South Africa head coach Eric Simons and ex-England wicketkeeper James Foster have joined the senior men's red-ball coaching staff under newly-appointed head coach Stephen Fleming, said the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday.
Gharami, Porel hammer tons to put Bengal ahead
Australia six wickets away after dominant day
Renshaw backed up his remarkable 190 in the first innings with a brisk 82 off 99 balls and a wicket
PAK vs SL 3rd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XIs
PAK vs SL 3rd T20I, Cricket Tips: Pakistan have managed to record two easy wins in the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka. Captain Sahibzada Farhan has led the team from front and recorded scores of 89 off 53 and 73 off 44 balls. With this, he has also won his first bilateral series as official T20I captain. Maaz Sadaqat has been the real find of this series. The left-hander has looked fluent with his stroke play and has scored 50 off 29 and 96 off 51 balls. Pakistan have now won the series and will look to close it out with a 3-0 whitewash. The final game is scheduled for Tuesday at 6:30 PM IST at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. PAK vs SL: Match Details Date : October 13, 2026 (Tuesday) Time : 6:30 PM IST Venue : Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, Rawalpindi PAK vs SL: Live Streaming Details In India, the only option to watch the final T20I between Pakistan and Sri Lanka is through the FanCode app or website. PAK vs SL: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 32 Pakistan : 20 Sri Lanka : 12 No-result: 0 PAK vs SL: Ground Pitch Report Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium has produced two good games. Batters have enjoyed their time on the field, and the consistent bounce has helped them. Early on, there will be some swing, and spinners can get a grip once the ball gets old. PAK vs SL: Possible XIs Pakistan : Sahibzada Farhan (c), Fakhar Zaman, Maaz Sadaqat, Hasan Nawaz, Saim Ayub, Khawaja Nafay (wk), Shadab Khan, Md. Imran Randhawa, Salman Mirza, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed Sri Lanka: Lahiru Udara, Kusal Mendis (c & wk), Kamindu Mendis, Sineth Jayawardena, Sahan Arachchige, Dasun Shanaka, Maheesh Theekshana, Chamindu Wickramasinghe, Eshan Malinga, Binura Fernando, Nuwan Thushara PAK vs SL: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Sahibzada Farhan has scored consecutive half-centuries and shown good form at the top. Sri Lanka need runs from Kusal Mendis because he is their proven match-winner with the bat. Probable Best Bowler Naseem Shah and Eshan Malinga have bowled well in both games and are expected to do well here. Today Match Prediction : Pakistan have outplayed Sri Lanka in both games and are expected to win the final game also. PAK vs SL Match 3rd T20I, Today Match PAK vs SL, PAK vs SL Prediction, PAK vs SL Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
Rahul and Revanth send Karnataka on a leather hunt
The duos 202-run partnership ensured the hosts finished on pole position exposing the inadequacies of the bowling attack after being in a spot of bother
Bangladesh Near Victory Over Afghanistan After Litton Das Century In One-Off Test
Bangladesh pushed towards a big win over Afghanistan in the one-off Test after a brilliant century from Litton Das helped them set a target of 479 runs in Abu Dhabi on Monday.
Rishabh Pant ruled out of India A squad for NZ tour
Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of the first two India A matches against New Zealand due to a left side strain, with Kumar Kushagra named as his replacement.
Rishabh Pant ruled out of first two four-dayers against New Zealand A
Pant has a left side strain and has been replaced by Kumar Kushagra in the India A squad
Adpatingto different balls and conditions crucial:Suthar
Rape-Accused Abhishek Porel Breaks Down In Tears, Reacts After Ranji Trophy 100
Speaking to reporters at the end of the day's play, Abhishek Porel opened up about his reaction and also broke his silence on the alleged rape case.
Hyderabad on the cusp of victory as Tripura batters slip up in second innings
Former Zimbabwe player and umpire Sarah Dambanevana dies aged 36
Dambanevana represented Zimbabwe as a player between 2009 and 2014, including at the World Cup Qualifier in 2011
Rishabh Pant Hit By Injury Ahead Of New Zealand Series, BCCI Announces Replacement For India A Games
Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of India A's first two matches on the upcoming tour of New Zealand due to a left-side strain, with young keeper-batter Kumar Kushagra named as his replacement in the updated squad, the BCCI announced on Monday.
Rahul and Jaiswal in India A squad for red-ball matches in New Zealand
Dhruv Jurel has been named the captain of the side, while Rishabh Pant has been picked but his participation will be subject to fitness
Ranji Trophy | DebutantDeepeshsquick strikes restrict Rajasthan to 363 against Tamil Nadu
The right-arm medium pacer picks up three wickets in eight deliveries to trigger the hosts collapse; Jagadeesan and Pradosh hit half-centuries as TN reaches 167 for four
Deflated Sri Lanka look to prevent whitewash against dominant Pakistan
Pakistan could make changes with the series in the bag, but they may also be tempted not to disrupt the in-form players' rhythm
Injured Pant Ruled Out Of India A's First Two Games Against NZ; Kushagra Named Replacement
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: Wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant has been ruled out of India As first two matches on the upcoming tour of New Zealand due to a left-side strain, with young keeper-batter Kumar Kushagra named as his replacement in the updated squad, the BCCI announced on Monday. Pant, whose availability for the tour was subject to fitness after catching viral fever while leading the rest of India in the Irani Cup clash against Ranji Trophy winners Jammu & Kashmir at the Sher-i-Kashmir Stadium in Srinagar. BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia said Pant, 29, remains under the medical teams supervision, with a final call on his participation in the third match starting on October 7 in Lincoln to be taken later. He remains under the care of the BCCI Medical Team and is recovering well. A decision on his availability for the third match will be taken at a later stage. The Mens Selection Committee has named Kumar Kushagra as Pants replacement for the first two matches, added Saikia. Kushagra, the 21-year-old Jharkhand keeper-batter, will join the Dhruv Jurel-led squad for India A's red-ball shadow tour alongside international stars like Yashasvi Jaiswal, B Sai Sudharsan, KL Rahul, Auqib Nabi, Mukesh Kumar, Akash Deep, Manav Suthar, and Washington Sundar. Kushagra is coming on the back of a good run in India A red-ball games against Australia A in Puducherry. He amassed scores of 113 and 46 to give India A a victory in the first game, while making 10 and 1 in the second clash. The shadow 'A' series holds immense significance for both sides as a critical warm-up series ahead of the two-game Test series to be played in Wellington and Christchurch, which carries major implications in terms of entering the World Test Championship (WTC) final. Kushagra is coming on the back of a good run in India A red-ball games against Australia A in Puducherry. He amassed scores of 113 and 46 to give India A a victory in the first game, while making 10 and 1 in the second clash. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Im just staying in the present, says a pragmatic Smaran
Ranji Trophy: Deshpande's Hat-trick Wrecks Chandigarh, Jadeja Slams Century For Saurashtra
Ranji Trophy Elite Division: Mumbai pacer Tushar Deshpande took a hat-trick and a five-wicket haul as Chandigarh were bundled out for 78 on Day Two of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group D match at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Monday. Deshpande tore through the top order to pick 5-17, and Mohit Avasthi backed him with figures of 3-9. Mumbai, who had made 429 on the back of half-centuries from Tanush Kotian and Avasthi, enforced the follow-on, and Deshpande struck again in the second innings to leave Chandigarh at 0/1. Veteran left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja, resuming on 72, scored 102 off 209 balls with seven fours as Saurashtra, who began the day on 308/4, were bowled out for 392 in 110.4 overs against Chhattisgarh in an Elite Group B clash at Rajkot. Jadeja fell to his former state-mate Dharmendrasinh Jadeja, who took 2-106 in 25.4 overs. Prerak Mankad went on to make 129 off 150 balls with 15 fours and a six, after starting the day on 92. Dev Aditya Singh was the pick of the Chhattisgarh bowlers with 5-67 in 24 overs, four of them maidens. Chhattisgarh were 122/3 in 55 overs at stumps. Anuj Tiwary was unbeaten on 72 and Mayank Verma on 32, with Ayush Pandey out for 13. Captain Jaydev Unadkat, Chetan Sakariya and Chirag Jani took a wicket each. Elsewhere, in the Elite Group A clash in Nagpur, Vidarbha captain Akshay Wadkar was dismissed two short of a maiden first-class double hundred, and his side finished on 428 against Puducherry after Yash Rathod hit 134 earlier in the day, with the visitors reaching 102/1 at stumps. In Goa, Atit Sheth was bowled for 99 as Baroda declared on 472/8 against Goa, who reached 5/1 at stumps. In Rajgir, Uttar Pradesh were bowled out for 540 against Bihar, with Aaradhya Yadav and Zeeshan Ansari scoring fifties after Madhav Kaushik (150) and Rinku Singh (112) fell. In Kalyani, West Bengal, Sudip Kumar Gharami (122 not out) and Abishek Porel (114 not out) hit centuries each and are unbroken in a 199-run stand as Bengal reached 304/3 against Delhi at Kalyani and have their lead currently at 64 runs. Jharkhand were bowled out for 587 against Kerala in Jamshedpur, with Aditya Singh's 147 and captain Virat Singh's 108 being strong contributions. Assam captain Denish Das (103) and Sibsankar Roy (143) also hit tons against Punjab in New Chandigarh, and Assam were bowled out for 373. For Punjab, veteran pacer Umesh Yadav took 5-70. In Ahmedabad, Gujarat's Vedant Trivedi (94 not out) and Aarya Desai (94) responded strongly to Baroda's 324 and took the hosts to 205/2 at stumps. In Vijayawada, SV Rahul, two days after turning 19, made a hundred on his first-class debut and shared a 202-run stand with wicketkeeper Revanth Reddy (97) that gave Andhra a 57-run lead over Karnataka, after ending day two at 331/6. Akash Vasisht's unbeaten 113 revived Himachal Pradesh, who had been 119/7, against Haryana and took them to 253. In reply, Haryana reached 178/4 in 46 overs and trailed by 75 runs, with Yashvardhan Dalal unbeaten on 69. Narayan Jagadeesan (55) and Pradosh Ranjan Paul (58) put on 104 for Tamil Nadu against Rajasthan, as they reached 167/4 and trailed by 196 runs. Rajasthan had been bowled out for 363, losing five wickets for 16 after Mahipal Lomror hit 66. B. Sai Sudharsan had gone down while fielding, and though he came out to bat, he made just three. Uttarakhand need 18 runs to match Railways' score of 78, with Avneesh Sudha unbeaten on 75. Tripura offspinner Sandip Sarkar took eight wickets in a 41.2-over spell, but Hyderabad still lead by 160 runs and need three wickets to move closer to an innings win. Fast bowler Avesh Khan's three wickets helped Madhya Pradesh bowl out defending champions Jammu and Kashmir for 120 to take a 76-run first-innings lead. But MP ended day twos play in Srinagar at 59/4, and are ahead by 135 runs overall, with fast-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabis late strikes keeping the hosts in the contest. Uttarakhand need 18 runs to match Railways' score of 78, with Avneesh Sudha unbeaten on 75. Tripura offspinner Sandip Sarkar took eight wickets in a 41.2-over spell, but Hyderabad still lead by 160 runs and need three wickets to move closer to an innings win. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Uncapped Crocombe wins two-year deal as ECB confirms central contracts
Rookie seamer among biggest-ever pool of centrally contracted England Men's players
Anvay Dravid, son of legendary India cricketer Rahul Dravid, is in a rich vein of form in the ongoing Vinoo Mankad Trophy.
Steven Smith doesn't take the field after blow to the head while batting
As of Monday afternoon, he hasn't been diagnosed with concussion
ICC Warns West Indies' Rovman Powell, Sherfane Rutherford After India T20I Clash. Here's Why
West Indies cricketers Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford have been reprimanded for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second men's T20 International against India in Ranchi on Friday.
Ranji Trophy 2026-27 | Deshpande hat-trick floors Chandigarh as Mumbai takes complete control
Chasing the hosts daunting 429, the visitor gets bowled out for a paltry 78 in just 115 balls; the seamer takes one more wicket in the only over of the second innings
Simons, Foster Join England Mens Red-ball Team Under Fleming; McCullum Retains White-ball Setup
Elite National Spin Bowling Lead: Former South Africa head coach Eric Simons and ex-England wicketkeeper James Foster have joined the senior mens red-ball coaching staff under newly-appointed head coach Stephen Fleming, said the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday. Simons, who worked with Fleming for eight years at Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in the Indian Premier League (IPL), and Foster, who served as CSKs fielding coach in IPL 2026, join a Test coaching unit that also includes Marcus Trescothick and Richard Dawson, with their first assignment being the trip to South Africa later this year. Dawson joins as the Elite National Spin Bowling Lead after stepping down from his head coach position at Glamorgan. Our gain is Glamorgan's loss. To go back into county cricket, where often you're not at the most-resourced club in the world, to do what Richard's done has been brilliant, England mens managing director Rob Key was quoted as saying by Cricinfo. Deciding to step up to the national role, Dawson acknowledged the significance of the move. It's a decision I haven't made lightly, and an opportunity I couldn't pass up, Dawson, who previously served as England Lions head coach, England U19s head coach and England Elite Pathways coach, said in a statement by Glamorgan. Foster served as a white-ball consultant coach for England mens team between 2018 and 2022, before working with the New Zealand setup in recent years. He also served as head coach of the Northern Superchargers in The Hundred between 2022-23 and has further experience coaching in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) and Bangladesh Premier League (BPL). Simons, meanwhile, worked as a bowling consultant with the South Africa mens team and was the bowling coach when India won the 2011 Mens ODI World Cup and also served as assistant coach at Joburg Super Kings in the SA20. It also means that CSK will look out for new bowling and fielding coaches for IPL 2027. Under the new structure, Mike Yardy takes over as Elite National Batting Lead alongside Dawson's spin role, and Troy Cooley continues in his existing position as Elite National Pace Bowling Lead. Key highlighted that white-ball cricket remains a major priority ahead of the 2027 ODI World Cup in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. McCullums white-ball set-up for the upcoming tour of Australia will feature former England batter Kevin Pietersen in a specialist mentor role, alongside Jeetan Patel, Tim Southee, and Sarah Taylor. Under the new structure, Mike Yardy takes over as Elite National Batting Lead alongside Dawson's spin role, and Troy Cooley continues in his existing position as Elite National Pace Bowling Lead. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Zverev clinches year-end No. 1 ranking after Alcaraz loss and with Sinner out injured
Zverev is currently No. 2 but will overtake No. 1 Sinner before the season ends next month
Rahul, Revanth shine as Andhra take lead against Karnataka
Teenager Seeram Rahul's unbeaten century and Revanth Reddy's 97 helped Andhra secure a crucial 57-run first-innings lead over last season's runner-up Karnataka in their Ranji Trophy Group B match.
India Need Cultural Shift To Tackle Fielding Form Slump In Shortest Format, Says R Sridhar
T20 World Cup: Former India senior mens fielding coach R. Sridhar believes the national team urgently requires a complete cultural shift to address a worrying form slump in the shortest format, while adding that the newbies in the team are arriving undercooked in terms of their fielding abilities ahead of their upcoming all-format tour of New Zealand starting on October 22. As per statistical data from Cricket-21 in T20Is in 2026, India's fielding standards have been in decline. India currently ranks second-to-last among the top 10 nations in catching efficiency at 73.4 per cent -- having put down a jaw-dropping 58 catches. While Indian fielders have saved 129 runs, dropped chances and ground-fielding errors have led to 226 runs being leaked, resulting in a net deficit of 97 runs. Furthermore, India leads all teams in missed run-out opportunities with 19, despite effecting 14 of them. Add to it, two missed stumpings out of five chances were recorded by the Indian wicketkeepers. With matches in New Zealand to begin at 8 pm local time, it means fielders will take the field when its biting cold. Let me tell you that. The form is not great. Like you said, the fielding form of the Indian team, not just over the last few matches, but the last few months, it's not been great. We ended up winning the T20 World Cup, but still we were nowhere near being a good fielding unit in that tournament as well. Axar Patel probably just saved us from falling by the wayside in that semifinal. So we need to pick up our act together. I think fielding has now definitely taken a backseat in terms of application and in terms of building a certain culture. As we can see, there is a clear culture with the batting, the way the Indian team is batting. Similarly, there's a clear culture in the way the Indian team is using fast bowlers, especially in the ODIs, where Shubman Gill likes to hit the deck. But whereas in fielding, that seems to be absent, and what is really worrying is the fact that the new kids who are coming into the squad are undercooked in their fielding ability. Some are fast bowlers, some are batters, but whoever is coming in, they don't seem to be the kind of fielder a Kohli is or even a Surya or Shreyas is, the generation of that block, I'm saying, because they seem to have been brought up on only one skill, that is batting, Sridhar told IANS in a select virtual interaction facilitated by Sony Sports Network on Monday. Urging the broader domestic ecosystem to wake up to the issue, Sridhar stressed that the current coaching staff under head coach Gautam Gambhir and fielding coach Subhadeep Ghosh, who took over from T Dilip earlier this year, will need to instil strict standards and accountability in terms of catching and ground fielding. So that's a bit of a worrying factor, but that is not for the Indian team to worry about. That is for the entire ecosystem to wake up and smell the coffee. So there are a lot of things to be done, but the fielding coach will have a job on his hands to train these young guns straightaway into match practice. I think they're going to leave India on the 18th, and land on the 19th and 22nd -- they have a (T20I) game which is very challenging. But modern-day cricket is all about adaptation, isn't it? That is why you are paid top dollar. I am really excited to watch the Indian team to see how they are going to adapt. They may adapt really well in the T20 format, but again, when the red ball comes, that will be a different ball game altogether, he added. Sridhar further noted that unique weather conditions in New Zealand will present an immediate test for the Indian fielding unit. One big factor in New Zealand, as you said, is just early spring. Generally, India tours New Zealand in Jan-Feb, when things are getting a little warmer, as opposed to this time, maybe, one of the rare occasions where we are going in late October and all of November. So I think our fielders will have to adapt. As you know, we've had a very hot October in India this year, thanks to the super El Nio. So there's going to be quite a bit of adaptation there to be done by our fielders, bowlers, and batters, especially when you're playing in cities like Wellington, which can be really, really windy. High catches could always become a challenge. But if you're in Christchurch, the Hagley Oval, it's a lovely, lush green cricket ground. It can get very chilly when, again, all the fielders have to protect their arms with hand warmers and hands in pockets or just warming them up every now and then. But it's not going to be easy, he added. As per Sridhar, building a sustainable fielding culture requires two things: internal standards set by the players themselves and objective tracking metrics. Modern metrics used by the coaching staff include throw speed from the boundary, speed reaching the ball, reaction times on sharp chances, catch conversion, runs saved, and direct-hit percentages. Sridhar also pointed to the blueprint established under former captain Virat Kohli, where every sessions attendance was tracked, and during the 2018 ODI series in South Africa, bowlers were explicitly told that fielding was their secondary skill and that they must view themselves as run-savers and run-out creators for the 40 overs they were not bowling. For India to get back to being a good fielding unit, accountability must once again flow from the top down in the current T20I squad led by Shreyas Iyer. Looking ahead to the long-term build-up for the 2027 ODI World Cup, Sridhar highlighted the game-changing impact of catchers in big tournaments, citing iconic catching moments from Kapil Dev in the 1983 edition final and Suryakumar Yadav in the 2024 T20 World Cup final. You are right. We saw what Surya did in the 2024 T20 World Cup, right? It won us the tournament. We saw the great Kapil Dev do what he did in the 1983 finals. It just didnt win a World Cup - it changed Indian cricket forever, and it changed the cricketing power centre forever. So, that is what catchers can do. Not just win matches, but they can win so many other things. They can win trust for a change. So, India is going to get their act together. Yes, it has not been the best period or the last couple of years in terms of catching. But we still have won World Cups and Champions Trophies. So, we are more than making up for it with our pure skill in batting and bowling. But fielding is definitely under the radar now because things have been happening far too consistently to sweep it under the carpet. All of this means Ghosh has his task cut out for him, and Sridhar trusted him to step up to the challenge. The new fielding coach has got his job cut out. He's got to have clear roles for the fielders. He's got to have more data so that he can have the right fielders in the right positions. He needs to objectivize every match more, and he's got the methods for it. He's a good coach. He's a very hard-working coach, and he's got a lot of knowledge. He's very experienced. So, I think Indian fielding at the minute, like it was in Dilips hands, now it's in Subhadeeps hands, who is also a very capable coach. So, I'm sure along with GG and the other coaching staff, they'll be making clear-cut plans. At the moment, we don't even know what the final World Cup team is. So, at least with certainties, we need to make plans and create cultures which will outlast us, he elaborated. Turning to 15-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Sridhar felt that he needs to be put through a structured schedule to grow as a dependable fielder, rather than be substituted during games. Look, he is 15. So, he is still a kid, right? So, I feel someone there has to really run his program. Although he is in an international elite environment where athletes are aware of what they need to do and how they need to manage their workloads. Someone as young as 15 sometimes needs to be told. Someone there has to make a schedule for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi where he has to feel a lot in practice and make himself ready to field in the match as well because at 15, if you are being subbed out, it's not a great sign. By 18 or 19, you would want Vaibhav to evolve as a very, very good fielder. Somebody has to take Vaibhav and show that he's practicing fielding every day. He can bowl a bit of spin bowling, but we'll save that for later. For now, it is very clear from my part that he has to work very hard on his fielding and someone has to tell him that. Although he is in an international elite environment where athletes are aware of what they need to do and how they need to manage their workloads. Someone as young as 15 sometimes needs to be told. Someone there has to make a schedule for Vaibhav Sooryavanshi where he has to feel a lot in practice and make himself ready to field in the match as well because at 15, if you are being subbed out, it's not a great sign. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ranji Trophy 2026-27 | Jharkhands Virat and Aditya make merry on a batting paradise
They both score hundreds to take the host to 587 at the end of day two; Kerala seamer Edhen doesnt take the field after getting injured; Vaisakh puts in a shift to scalp five wickets
Ranji: J and K bowled out for 120, MP take 135-run lead
Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir were bowled out for 120, allowing Madhya Pradesh to take a 135-run overall lead on day two of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match. Meanwhile, Baroda, Uttar Pradesh, and Vidarbha also established strong positions in their respective matches.
Ranji Trophy | Aveshand Aryan skittle out J&K for 120 to giveM.P. the edge
The two speedsters maintain a disciplined line and length to scalp three wickets each to help the visitor take 76-run lead; Nabis late strikes helps the champion get a foothold
Ranji Trophy 2026-27 | Denish and Sibsankars centuries propel Assam to 373
The duo rescues the visitor from a precarious 23 for three with a 168-run stand; Sarupam chips in a with a half-century; Umesh scalps five wickets for Punjab
Ranji Trophy: Gharami, Porel tons put Bengal on top
Sudip Kumar Gharami (122 not out) and Abhishek Porel (114 not out) struck unbeaten centuries, forging a 199-run partnership to put Bengal in a commanding position against Delhi in their Ranji Trophy Group C match.
Uncapped Crocombe Wins Bumper Two-year Deal, Robinson Returns As ECB Announce Central Contract
Wales Cricket Board: The England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Monday announced the central contracts as uncapped fast bowler Henry Crocombe won a bumper two-year deal, while Ollie Robinson also returned. The contract list for the 2026-27 cycle has been expanded to 39 from the 30 it was in 2025-26 as Ben Stokes and Mark Wood's retirements freed up finances for more inclusion. 30 players have full deals, while nine are in development contracts offered by the English board, as eight players who did not had a deal for 2025/26 have been contracted. Apart from Cox and Crocombe, Tom Banton, Sam Cook, Emilio Gay, Matt Fisher and Dan Lawrence have signed central contracts for the first time, while Ollie Robinson returns to the contracts after being awarded the deals in 2022 and 2023. Crocombe, who was signed by Surrey from Sussex, and Jordan Cox have been handed two-year deals with the former uncapped as of now. Nine other players who were contracted last year have signed extensions, which will see their deals run till September 2028. Those players include: Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Joe Root and Josh Tongue. Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Ben Duckett, Adil Rashid and Jamie Smith move into the second year of their contracts. Six of the nine development-contracted players have signed for the first time. These are James Coles, Mason Crane, Ben McKinney, Liam Patterson-White, Thomas Rew and Matthew Revis. Meanwhile, Zak Crawley and Luke Wood have been dropped altogether from the contracts. Carse, who is currently under investigation by the Cricket Regulator for being briefly arrested outside a nightclub, moves to his second-year deal. I don't see, at the moment, anything to suggest that he won't continue on that contract, Key said on Carse, as quoted by Cricinfo, ut we'll find out more as it (the investigation) goes on. England central contracts: Two-year deal: Jofra Archer, Gus Atkinson, Sonny Baker, Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook, Jordan Cox, Henry Crocombe, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Joe Root, Josh Tongue (to 30 September 2028) One-year deal: Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Shoaib Bashir, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Dan Lawrence, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Ollie Robinson, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith (to 30 September 2027) Development contracts: James Coles, Mason Crane, Josh Hull, Eddie Jack, Ben McKinney, Liam Patterson-White, Thomas Rew, Matthew Revis, Mitchell Stanley (to 30 September 2027) One-year deal: Rehan Ahmed, Tom Banton, Shoaib Bashir, Jos Buttler, Brydon Carse, Sam Cook, Liam Dawson, Ben Duckett, Matthew Fisher, Emilio Gay, Dan Lawrence, Saqib Mahmood, Jamie Overton, Ollie Pope, Matthew Potts, Adil Rashid, Ollie Robinson, Phil Salt, Jamie Smith (to 30 September 2027) Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ranji Trophy: Deshpande's Fifer Puts Mumbai in Control
Fast bowler Tushar Deshpande's impressive five-wicket haul led Mumbai to bowl out Chandigarh for a mere 78 runs in their first innings, forcing a follow-on on the second day of their Ranji Trophy Group D match.
Dictatorship: Gautam Gambhir-Led Management Slammed Over Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Exclusion
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi failed to find a spot in the playing XI in the first three T20Is of the ongoing five-match series against West Indies.
Powell, Rutherford reprimanded for ICC Code of Conduct breaches
West Indies cricketers Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford have been reprimanded and received one demerit point each for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second T20 International against India.
WPL 2027: Tara Norris Traded To Mumbai Indians From UP Warriorz
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Tara Norris, the left-arm pacer from the USA, has been traded to the Mumbai Indians (MI) from UP Warriorz (UPW) for the upcoming Womens Premier League (WPL) 2027, which will be held from January 14 to February 7, 2027. Tara, who was previously part of MI London, will join the Mumbai Indians for WPL 2027 at her existing fee of Rs 10 Lakh. Mumbai Indians have completed their first-ever trade in the Womens Premier League, bringing USA international and left-arm pacer Tara Norris into the team. Having previously been part of MI London, Norris now joins Mumbai Indians WPL squad, bringing her experience across the global T20 game to the team, MI said in a release. UPW, who finished at the bottom of the WPL 2026 points table, executed a sweeping squad cleanup on the retention deadline day last month by parting ways with international players Deandra Dottin, Chloe Tryon, and Amy Jones, alongside domestic names like Kiran Navgire, Shweta Sehrawat, and India leg-spinner Asha Sobhana. Despite the exits, the franchise has retained an 11-member core that features premier overseas stars in captain Meg Lanning, Phoebe Litchfield, Sophie Ecclestone, and Tara Norris. The retained Indian contingent is headlined by star all-rounder Deepti Sharma, alongside Harleen Deol, Shikha Pandey, Kranti Gaud, Pratika Rawal, Shipra Giri, and Simran Shaikh. The two-time champions said that Norris adds depth and versatility to Mumbai Indians bowling attack as the team builds towards the upcoming WPL 2027 season. Norris made history at the inaugural WPL auction after becoming the first player from the Associate nations to be picked by a franchise. She represented the Delhi Capitals (DC) in the opening season and became the first bowler to register a five-wicket haul in the league. As a left-arm swing bowler, Tara has played for the England Womens Academy, Southern Vipers, Southern Brave, Loughborough Lightning, Sussex, and the USA. The player retention period for the WPL 2027 season officially ended on September 28. Across the five WPL franchises Delhi Capitals (DC), Gujarat Giants (GG), Mumbai Indians (MI), Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) and UP Warriorz (UPW) 63 players, including 23 overseas stars, have been retained, ahead of the fifth season of the league. As a left-arm swing bowler, Tara has played for the England Womens Academy, Southern Vipers, Southern Brave, Loughborough Lightning, Sussex, and the USA. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sachin Tendulkar's Sweet Birthday Wish for Daughter Sara
Cricket icon Sachin Tendulkar shared a heartfelt birthday message for his daughter, Sara Tendulkar, who turned 29, expressing pride in her independent path and achievements.
Quintin Sampson: The West Indies Power-Hitter on IPL Radar?
Guyanese batter Quentin Sampson, known for his aggressive power-hitting, is attracting attention from IPL franchises, with Chennai Super Kings reportedly among those watching him ahead of the 2027 auction, following his impressive cameo against India.
Powell, Rutherford Reprimanded For Breaching ICC Code Of Conduct In Second T20I
Emirates ICC International Panel: West Indies players Rovman Powell and Sherfane Rutherford have been handed official reprimands and one demerit point each for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second T20I against India in Ranchi on Friday. Powell was sanctioned for hitting the ball away with his bat after being dismissed, while Rutherford was reprimanded for showing dissent at an umpires decision during the match. According to the ICC, Powell was found to have breached Article 2.2 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which relates to the abuse of cricket equipment or clothing, ground equipment or fixtures and fittings during an International Match. The incident occurred in the sixth over of the West Indies innings after Powell was bowled by India pacer Mayank Yadav. Rutherford, meanwhile, breached Article 2.8, which relates to showing dissent at an Umpires decision during an International Match. His offence took place in the 13th over when he yelled aggressively at the umpire after a delivery he believed was wide was ruled legitimate. Both players admitted their respective offences and accepted the sanctions proposed by Prakash Bhatt of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, eliminating the need for formal hearings. The ICC also confirmed that one demerit point had been added to the disciplinary records of both players. It was the first offence for each within a 24-month period. Talking about the match, skipper Shai Hope smashed a blistering 45-ball century before Sherfane Rutherford hammered 84 off 37 deliveries as the West Indies pulled off a sensational six-wicket victory over India in the second T20I, chasing down a daunting target of 250 to register the second-highest successful run chase in men's T20I cricket. The ICC also confirmed that one demerit point had been added to the disciplinary records of both players. It was the first offence for each within a 24-month period. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh internationals Abu Hider Rony, Sabbir Rahman Roman headline Hong Kong Sixes squad
Digital Desk | Hong Kong, Oct 12 (IANS) Bangladesh will bring a blend of international experience and emerging talent to the Hong Kong Sixes 2026, with Bangladesh internationals Abu Hider Rony and Sabbir Rahman Roman headlining the seven-member squad for the six-a-side tournament. Abu Hider Rony will lead the side in the 2026 edition of Hong Kong Sixes. Bangladesh, who reached the Plate Final in 2025, will face Sri Lanka and Scotland in Pool B as they return to Hong Kong from October 30 to November 1. The squad features Bangladesh internationals Abu Hider Rony and Sabbir Rahman Roman, alongside emerging talents Samiun Basir Ratul, Chowdhury Md Rizwan, Mrittunjoy Chowdhury, Ahrar Amin and Habibur Rahman Sohan. Nadif Chowdhury will accompany the team as Manager. Abu Hider Rony, who has represented Bangladesh in both ODIs and T20Is, returns to the Hong Kong Sixes after featuring in the 2025 edition, where he took four wickets in the Plate Final against Hong Kong, China. Sabbir Rahman Roman also brings international experience and enjoyed a strong 2026 Top End T20 campaign in Australia, scoring 184 runs in seven matches, including two half-centuries. Samiun Basir Ratul, Mrittunjoy Chowdhury and Habibur Rahman Sohan were also part of the Bangladesh squad in the previous edition, with Sohan scoring 85 runs. Bangladesh's campaign will add another chapter to the region's growing cross-border cricket rivalry, with the side joining a field featuring some of Asia's leading cricket sides. Bangladesh return to the Hong Kong Sixes after reaching the Plate Final in 2025, where they narrowly lost to hosts Hong Kong, China by one wicket. The 2026 side will look to build on that campaign when they face Sri Lanka and Scotland in Pool B. With six players on the field and six overs per innings, the Hong Kong Sixes is built around attacking cricket, quick scoring and players contributing across disciplines. The Hong Kong Sixes will be played from October 30 to November 1 at the Tin Kwong Road Recreation Ground in Hong Kong. The action will be broadcast live in India on Sony Sports Network and streamed live on FanCode. The Bangladesh squad comprises: Abu Hider Rony (c), Samiun Basir Ratul, Chowdhury Md Rizwan, Mrittunjoy Chowdhury, Ahrar Amin, Sabbir Rahman Roman, Habibur Rahman Sohan
Sorry, Axar Bhai: Arshdeep Singh's Honest Apology After India's Win vs West Indies In Third T20I
I would like to apologize to Axar bhai. Sorry, Axar bhai, said Arshdeep Singh after the third T20I against West Indies.
1st Test: Renshaw leads Australia as SA face tough chase
Australia extended their lead over South Africa to 280 runs by lunch on the fourth day of the first test, reaching 174-4. Despite losing four key wickets, including Travis Head, Nic Maddinson, Steve Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne, Australia is aiming for a declaration after pushing their lead past 350 to give themselves enough time to bowl out South Africa.
R Ashwin's Brutally Honest Take On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vs Sanju Samson Battle
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to warm the bench for India in T20Is, as Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson are preferred.
Not Accurate: BCCI Denies Reports Of India vs Sri Lanka ODI Venue Shift From Delhi To Ahmedabad
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed reports claiming that the opening ODI between India and Sri Lanka, scheduled for December 13 in Delhi, had been shifted to Ahmedabad amid concerns over ongoing construction work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Reports Suggesting India-Sri Lanka ODI Shifting From New Delhi To Ahmedabad Inaccurate: Saikia
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia on Monday denied reports claiming that the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka, originally scheduled to be held in the national capital on December 13, has been moved to Ahmedabad. The clarification comes amid reports regarding the non-availability of the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) is currently undertaking major infrastructure overhauls, including the installation of a modern drainage system along with the relaying of pitches and outfield. Reports suggesting that the IndiaSri Lanka ODI match scheduled in Delhi may be shifted to Ahmedabad are not accurate. There has been no such decision (taken) by the BCCI. We request media colleagues to kindly refer to official BCCI communications for any updates regarding the schedule. Further, it needs to be reiterated that bilateral matches are primarily allotted by following a standard policy, said Saikia in a statement on Monday. IANS had previously reported on September 25 that the major overhaul of the drainage system at the stadium had led to Delhis home games in Elite Group C of the Ranji Trophy 2026/27 being shifted to the Air Force Ground in Palam. Interestingly, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is already scheduled to host the third India-Sri Lanka ODI on December 19, after the second game takes place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on December 16. The ODI matches are of immense importance to India, the two-time champions, in terms of building up and fine-tuning their combinations for the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, to be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Interestingly, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is already scheduled to host the third India-Sri Lanka ODI on December 19, after the second game takes place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on December 16. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Watched Virat Kohli On YouTube: Australia A Star's Secret To Dominating India A
Nathan McSweeney says observing and learning from Virat Kohli's handling of spinners through Youtube videos was one of the major reasons why he succeeded in the just-concluded three-match one-day series against India A.
England Fast Bowler Lauren Bell Returns To Sydney Thunder For Full WBBL Season 12
Big Bash League: England fast bowler Lauren Bell has signed up with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming season of the Womens Big Bash League (WBLL). It will also mark Laurens second stint in the premier womens franchise T20 tournament. Lauren, who sits in the top five of the ICC T20I bowling rankings, will be available for the entire duration of the tournament, joining her former England captain Heather Knight in the Thunder setup. Lauren, who has taken 88 matches across all formats for England, arrives on the back of impressive global performances, including a seven-wicket haul in the 2026 T20 World Cup, a stellar 19-wicket campaign for Southern Brave in The Hundred, and a 12-wicket season with Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru. I love Sydney, I love the group and weve got some exciting new additions since I was last here so I cant wait to get going with the girls. The WBBL has the best talent in the world, and as a cricketer thats how I believe I will get better... playing and challenging myself against the best in the world. Ive obviously played against Phoebe (Litchfield) many times and we seem to have pretty good battles but it will be nice to have her on my side now and watch her score runs. Volly (Georgia Voll) is super fun and talented and I was lucky enough to play with her in India and I cant wait to do it again in Sydney, she said in a statement by the franchise on Monday. Reflecting on her growth since her previous stint with the franchise in WBBL season nine, Lauren added, Playing for England has certainly helped me understand my own game and my experience within cricket has grown since I was last with Thunder. I hope I can bring that winning mentality to this group. Welcoming the star bowler back into the squad, Sydney Thunder head coach Lisa Keightley praised Laurens versatility and wicket-taking ability across different phases of the game. Lauren is a world-class bowler and someone were really excited to have back at the Thunder this season. Weve seen what she can do at the highest level. She has the ability to take wickets with the new ball, but what really stands out is how she can impact a game at different stages of an innings. She brings a lot of experience to our group, but shes also still only 25 and continuing to develop her game. Welcoming the star bowler back into the squad, Sydney Thunder head coach Lisa Keightley praised Laurens versatility and wicket-taking ability across different phases of the game. Lauren is a world-class bowler and someone were really excited to have back at the Thunder this season. Weve seen what she can do at the highest level. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
How Naman Dhir used a batter's mind to outfox Pooran
India's spin-bowling all-rounder Naman Dhir discusses how his experience as a batter enhances his ability to read opponents while bowling. He elaborates on his strategy for dismissing Kamil Pooran in the recent T20I match against West Indies and outlines his role as a batting all-rounder in the Indian team, emphasising his reliance on line, length, and pace variations.
