Cricket

BCB withdraws NOCs for Mustafizur Rahman, Nahid Rana for remainder of PSL 2026

Mustafizur has been nursing a knee injury and Rana will manage his workload

IPL 2026: Samsons Unbeaten Ton Powers CSK To 207/6 Against MI

Chennai Super Kings: Opener Sanju Samson hammered a brilliant unbeaten century, his second of Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, as Chennai Super Kings (CSK) posted 207/6 in 20 overs against Mumbai Indians (MI) at the iconic Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. After being asked to bat first, CSK got off to a strong start. Samson and captain Ruturaj Gaikwad attacked from the beginning, scoring 26 runs in the first two overs, including 19 runs off Hardik Pandyas second over. Mumbai got their first breakthrough in the third over when Gaikwad was dismissed for 22 off 14 balls. Despite losing a wicket, Samson kept the momentum going and again took on Pandya, collecting 19 runs in the fourth over bowled by the Mumbai Indians skipper as CSK crossed the 50-run mark quickly. Sarfaraz Khan played a few attacking shots but was bowled by Mitchell Santner for 14 off 8 balls in the last over of the Power-play. CSK ended the first six overs at 73/2. After the fielding restrictions were lifted, the Mumbai Indians struck again as AM Ghazanfar bowled Shivam Dube with a clever carrom ball. Dewald Brevis then struck some runs, hitting two sixes and a four before getting out for 21 off 11 balls to Ashwani Kumar. At the other end, Samson continued to bat with confidence and reached his fifty in just 26 balls. He held the innings together even as wickets kept falling. Young batter Kartik tried to accelerate in the middle overs with a couple of sixes but struggled later and was dismissed by Jasprit Bumrah for 18 off 19 balls. Jamie Overton provided a late boost with a quick 15 off 7 balls. In the final overs, Samson dominated the bowling and brought up his century in style, reaching the milestone in 54 balls with a six. He remained unbeaten on 101, hitting 10 fours and 6 sixes, helping CSK cross the 200-run mark. For the Mumbai Indians, Ghazanfar was the pick of the bowlers with 2/25, while Ashwani Kumar also picked up two wickets. In the final overs, Samson dominated the bowling and brought up his century in style, reaching the milestone in 54 balls with a six. He remained unbeaten on 101, hitting 10 fours and 6 sixes, helping CSK cross the 200-run mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai Super Kings 207/6 in 20 overs (Sanju Samson 101*, Ruturaj Gaikwad 22; AM Ghazanfar 2-25, Ashwani Kumar 2-37) against Mumbai Indians Article Source: IANS

Ben Charlesworth to join Lancashire at the end of the season

Allrounder to remain at Bristol for the summer before moving to Emirates Old Trafford on a three-year deal

IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Announce Rehan Ahmed As Ben Duckett's Replacement

Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals (DC) have signed England all-rounder Rehan Ahmed as a replacement for his compatriot Ben Duckett for the remainder of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. According to an official IPL media advisory, Rehan has been roped in for a fee of INR 75 lakh. The 21-year-old right-arm leg-spinner has represented England in all three formats, featuring in five Tests, nine ODIs, and 13 T20Is, and has taken a total of 49 international wickets so far. Duckett had withdrawn from what would have been his maiden IPL stint just before the start of the tournament in order to focus on his England commitments following a challenging Ashes tour. The Capitals did not name an immediate replacement at the time, instead opting to reshuffle their batting order, with Pathum Nissanka opening alongside KL Rahul. Rehan, who initially gained attention for his wrist-spin bowling, has also made significant progress with the bat. Playing for Leicestershire, he enjoyed an impressive 2025 County Championship campaign, scoring 760 runs at an average of 50.66, including five centuries, while also picking up 23 wickets at an average of 19. He made waves earlier this year during the 2026 T20 World Cup for breaking crucial partnerships. Rehan has represented England in 13 T20Is, picking up 15 wickets. He also has experience in playing other global tournaments like the BBL and The Hundred. Rehan, who initially gained attention for his wrist-spin bowling, has also made significant progress with the bat. Playing for Leicestershire, he enjoyed an impressive 2025 County Championship campaign, scoring 760 runs at an average of 50.66, including five centuries, while also picking up 23 wickets at an average of 19. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Axar Patel-led side will next face table toppers Punjab Kings (PBKS) at Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Priyansh And Vaibhav Already Know Exactly How They Want To Play The Game, Says Pujara

Indian Premier League: The rise of fearless prodigies has been the defining theme of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, with young Priyansh Arya and teenaged Vaibhav Sooryavanshi emerging as the standout names. Both have consistently provided explosive starts in the Power-play, combining intent with maturity beyond their years. Former India Test batter Cheteshwar Pujara pointed out that the success of Arya and Sooryavanshi is because they know exactly how they want to play T20 cricket. What stands out for me is not just the stroke play, its the clarity. At that age, most players are still figuring out where they belong, but Priyansh and Vaibhav already know exactly how they want to play the game. Its not about reckless hitting; its about backing your intent without second-guessing. Vaibhav brings that raw, uncompromising power, while Priyansh gives you time on the ball that you simply cant teach. Together, theyre redefining what a Power-play can look like, and more importantly, theyre doing it on their own terms. Obviously, they will continue to improve and grow, but what I am seeing at such a young age is very exciting, said Pujara on JioHotstars Champions Waali Commentary. The performances by Arya and Sooryavanshi have underlined five key traits fearlessness beyond their age, a game plan which is tailor-made for T20 cricket, contrasting methods of brute power versus timing, fetching them big runs, the ability to shift gears, and staying original without imitating established stars. Sooryavanshis raw muscle power has allowed him to clear boundaries with ease, while Aryas timing and placement have produced equally destructive results. Both have shown adaptability in pacing innings when required, as seen in Sooryavanshis fifty against Chennai Super Kings and Aryas measured half-century in a steep chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Sooryavanshi has made 254 runs in seven innings, while Arya has amassed 211 runs in five matches. Umesh Yadav, veteran Indian pacer, also praised the young batters for being in a rich vein of form in IPL 2026. There's no question about talent, but what separates these boys is their ability to adapt within the same innings. Sooryavanshis raw muscle power has allowed him to clear boundaries with ease, while Aryas timing and placement have produced equally destructive results. Both have shown adaptability in pacing innings when required, as seen in Sooryavanshis fifty against Chennai Super Kings and Aryas measured half-century in a steep chase against Sunrisers Hyderabad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The fearless approach is just the surface; underneath that is game awareness, match-ups, and a strong sense of identity. Theyre not trying to be like anyone, theyre comfortable being themselves, and thats why theyve become the standout young batters this season, he added. Article Source: IANS

Clash of contrasts at the Chinnaswamy as RCB host GT

The two sets of batters couldn't be more different from each other, but where RCB and GT are similar is in the ability of their fast-bowling packs

Rehan Ahmed replaces Ben Duckett at Delhi Capitals

This will be the England allrounder's first stint in the IPL

Rawalpindiz break duck in penultimate game of their season

Asif Afridi, Mohammad Amir, Saad Masood and Dian Forrester combined forces to stop Islamabad United at 137, before the Rawalpindiz batters got to the target with 11 balls in hand

UAE captain Waseem fined and handed demerit point for criticising umpiring

Waseem said the umpiring was biased during the second T20I against Nepal

IPL 2026: 'I Am Comfortable Everywhere,' Says Naman Dhir On Batting Role For MI

Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians (MI) batter Naman Dhir said he is ready to bat in any position for the team, stressing his flexibility ahead of their high-profile clash against Chennai Super Kings (CSK) at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. I am comfortable everywhere, I do not have any problem with that. But yes, if you get more time in a game to settle in, then obviously why not, Dhir said while speaking to broadcasters before the match. The youngster revealed that he was asked to prepare for a top-order role at short notice due to Rohit Sharma dealing with a minor hamstring niggle. Unfortunately, Rohit Sharma bhai had a niggle in his hamstring. After that, one day before the match, I was told. Mahela Jayawardene told me that I might bat at number three, he said. The young batter grabbed the opportunity with both hands as he smashed 45 runs off just 32 balls against the Gujarat Titans (GT) in their last match. Dhir added that the shift was not new to him as he bats in the top order in domestic cricket. Actually, I bat in the top order for my domestic team as well, so it was nothing new for me. I just faced the new ball in the nets, so I felt I was ready, he explained. Looking ahead to the clash, Dhir expects a charged-up atmosphere given the rivalry between the two teams. There are some very big players playing for both teams, like MS Dhoni bhai is here. Both teams are five-time champions, so I guess that is why it is such a rivalry. The special moment is that the atmosphere today will be very good; it will be electrifying. There will be tremendous support for both teams, so we are looking forward to winning this game, he said. Dhir added that the shift was not new to him as he bats in the top order in domestic cricket. Actually, I bat in the top order for my domestic team as well, so it was nothing new for me. I just faced the new ball in the nets, so I felt I was ready, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There are a lot of positive conversations happening. And if you look at slow starts, it has been a trend with the Mumbai Indians, so we are not too worried. We have just come here to play good cricket, and we will do that today, he added. Article Source: IANS

Shanto century, Mustafizur five-for seals series win for Bangladesh

Dean Foxcroft's late charge, during which he put up a fifty-run stand with No. 11 Ben Lister, could not get New Zealand over the line

UAE Skipper Waseem Fined 15 Percent Match Fee For ICC Code Of Conduct Breach

Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground: United Arab Emirates (UAE) captain Muhammad Waseem has been fined 15 per cent of his match fee for breaching the ICC Code of Conduct during the second T20I against Nepal. Waseem was found guilty of a Level 1 offence under Article 2.7 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, which deals with public criticism of, or inappropriate comment in relation to an incident occurring in an International Match or any Player, Player Support Personnel, Match Official or team participating in any International Match, irrespective of when such criticism or inappropriate comment is made. The charge stemmed from Waseems remarks at the post-match presentation ceremony, where he alleged that the umpiring was biased. On-field officials Buddhi Pradhan and Vinay Kumar, along with third umpire Durga Subedi and fourth umpire Sanjay Sigdel, reported the matter. Waseem admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Wendell La Brooy of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, thereby avoiding a formal hearing. In addition to the fine, Waseem has received one demerit point, his first offence in 24 months. Level 1 breaches carry a minimum penalty of an official reprimand, a maximum penalty of 50 per cent of a players match fee, and one or two demerit points. Waseem admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction proposed by Wendell La Brooy of the Emirates ICC International Panel of Match Referees, thereby avoiding a formal hearing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score UAE, who won the opening T20I by six wickets, went down by eight wickets in the second match as Nepal levelled the series at the Tribhuvan University International Cricket Ground in Kirtipur. Article Source: IANS

No Dhoni or Rohit; MI opt to bowl vs CSK

This is the first ever MI vs CSK game without either Rohit or Dhoni

IPL 2026: Unchanged Mumbai Indians Opt To Bowl Against Chennai Super Kings

MI Skipper Hardik Pandya: Five-time champions Mumbai Indians (MI) have won the toss and elected to bowl first against the Chennai Super Kings (CSK) in Match 33 of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on Thursday. Rohit Sharma is still out due to injury as MI have not made any changes in the team. While CSK have made only one change, Prashant Veer has come in place of Matthew Short. The clash between the two five-time IPL champions, Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings, has gained added interest after Mumbai snapped their four-match losing streak with a win over the Gujarat Titans earlier this week. Led by Hardik Pandya, the side has managed two victories from six outings so far. Meanwhile, Chennai Super Kings (CSK) find themselves in a similar position, also registering two wins and four defeats in six matches. After a shaky start with three consecutive losses, they recovered with back-to-back victories, but their momentum was halted in the last game, where Ruturaj Gaikwads team went down by 10 runs to the Sunrisers Hyderabad. After winning the toss, MI Skipper Hardik Pandya said, We are going to bowl first. I think a lot of boxes were ticked. The intensity was there. I think we needed that kind of game where everyone comes in and chips in. Yeah, we had a perfect game. Yes, I think that was a conscious effort - that no matter what happens, intensity is in your control. I just wanted to make sure that we enjoy ourselves. I think things were becoming quite serious. Cricket is played best when you are enjoying the sport. A lot of things happen, right? So yeah, we just wanted to have fun. Things went our way, and it was a good game. This pitch looks green, but it did against the KKR game as well, and it played pretty well. Its going to be a good track. Just want to see how much we have on the board and chase it. Same team, he added. While after losing the toss, Ruturaj Gaikwad said, We would have bowled first as well, but it was a 50-50 call. It looks like a good wicket, and coming here at Wankhede Stadium, you have to bat well irrespective of whether youre batting first or bowling first. So it is just about putting up a great show even if youre batting first. We are doing really well. Its just that we are not able to cash in on a couple of moments. But I think we pulled it back really well during our bowling in the last game. Even batting, we had started really well. But as I said, its just a couple of moments where we have to make sure we cash in, and we get that win. Obviously, all thanks to the legend (Dhoni), who is not here unfortunately. But obviously it is because of him. Everywhere you go, we have a lot of support. So hopefully well make them happy tonight. Weve got a couple of changes, He added. Playing XIs: Mumbai Indians: Quinton de Kock (wk), Naman Dhir, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Sherfane Rutherford, Mitchell Santner, Kris Bhagat, Jasprit Bumrah, Allah Ghazanfar, Ashwani Kumar Impact substitutes: Mayank Rawat, Corbin Bosch, Raj Bawa, Danish Malewar, Raghu Sharma Mumbai Indians: Quinton de Kock (wk), Naman Dhir, Tilak Varma, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Sherfane Rutherford, Mitchell Santner, Kris Bhagat, Jasprit Bumrah, Allah Ghazanfar, Ashwani Kumar Also Read: Live Cricket Score Impact substitutes: Prashant Veer, Matthew Short, Matt Henry, Akeal Hossein, Urvil Patel. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'Wanted To Be As Calm As Possible', Says Hinge On Mindset Behind Stunning Four-for On Debut

Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: When Praful Hinge ran in to bowl his first over in the IPL for Sunrisers Hyderabad in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against an in-form Rajasthan Royals batting line-up, there was no doubt in him being overwhelmed by the occasion. The young fast bowler from Nagpur was just focused on executing what he had already rehearsed in the nets nailing his line and length with precision. By blocking out the crowd, trusting the process, and staying calm, Hinge got a stunning four-fer, including three scalps in the opening over, to give SRH a memorable win over RR and etch his name into the history books. Now nearly ten days since that magical night at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium, Hinge recalled that, being at the top of his bowling mark, he just wanted to be calm in executing his plans to perfection. It was nothing like that. I had thought about getting the crowd out of my head and mind first, and I wanted to be as calm as possible. I had bowled under pressure when I was bowling in the practice sessions. So, I had to execute all those things in the match, and I felt really good when I did that, Hinge told IANS on JioStar Press Room. As he took out Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Dhruv Jurel, Lhuan-dre Pretorius, and Riyan Parag, Hinge said he didnt realise that he was making history. I was just focused on bowling the ball. Its not in my hands to take a wicket or not. I just had to bowl well. So, that was it. I was just focusing on bowling well and helping my team win. Cricket is like, if you bowl well, you'll get the wicket. Behind that calm composure and a little shy demeanour lies a journey rooted in stubborn ambition and a childhood dream stitched while growing up in Nagpur. I started playing cricket at the age of 13. But I didn't know what leather ball cricket was. So, I used to play tennis ball cricket, and I used to play a match with it. Gradually, I told my dad that I wanted to start a club. So, he took me there. I said I would play at the age of 12, but he said that I was too young and he would take me there next year. So, when I turned 13, he took me to the club. I wanted to do a summer camp, as I wanted to see what happens after playing leather ball cricket. So, while I was playing, my dad said that the two-month camp was over. I said that I wanted to continue. So, my dad thought that I would go and go and if I continued, I would get tired, come home, and go to sleep. But I was stubborn - I knew that I wanted to play for India. I didn't know what domestic cricket was or what club matches were. I just knew that I wanted to play for India and that blue jersey. Obviously, everyone wants that. So, I slowly got to know about the process and worked hard according to it. Then in 2016, I played for the under-16s, under-19s, and for the VCA., I represented them in various age groups. Then, last year, I got my debut match against Pondicherry and took four wickets. Then, this year, I got my debut in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy - something like four overs, 23 runs, one wicket, I took. So, I'm happy, I'm doing well, it's all about hard work, and I'm doing that, he elaborated. A key chapter in shaping this fearless prodigy has been his time at the MRF Pace Foundation in Chennai, where an exposure trip to Australia and being under bowling coach Glenn McGrath sharpened both his skills and his sense of where he stood among the country's best pacers. I got a lot of confidence there, and especially I got to know how much I can develop myself and my fitness when foreign fast bowlers came. I mean, fast bowlers from every state came there, and I got to know where I stand and where I have to be. So, then I started working on myself. After that, I went to Australia as well. It was a very good experience there. Every year, two boys are taken to Australia. So, when I bowled on their wickets and came to India, it was very good, and I enjoyed it. While recovering from a stress fracture in the back, Hinge found a guide in Varun Aaron, the current SRH pace bowling coach and ex-India pacer, who himself had multiple stress fractures. Aarons own experience as a fast bowler gives him a unique understanding of what Hinge needs - without overcomplicating things. He's been very good. Like, he was a fast bowler, and he understands fast bowlers. So, the mutual understanding between a fast bowler can only be understood by a fast bowler. He works on what I feel is right. He doesn't tell me anything extraordinary - like, you do this, you do that. He just tells me what my body needs and something that can help me in bowling. While recovering from a stress fracture in the back, Hinge found a guide in Varun Aaron, the current SRH pace bowling coach and ex-India pacer, who himself had multiple stress fractures. Aarons own experience as a fast bowler gives him a unique understanding of what Hinge needs - without overcomplicating things. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Catch Sunrisers Hyderabad in action against Rajasthan Royals in TATA IPL 2026, April 25, 7:30 PM onwards, LIVE on JioHotstar and Star Sports Network. Article Source: IANS

Naseem Shah limps off after hurting his knee in the field

The Rawalpindiz fast bowler hurt his left knee while trying to stop a boundary against Islamabad United

IPL 2026: Shreyas, As Captain, Is A Pleasure To Work With, Very Goal-driven And Headstrong, Says Jansen

Indian Premier League: South Africas left-arm fast bowling all-rounder Marco Jansen has been emerging as a genuine all-rounder for Punjab Kings (PBKS). In last years Indian Premier League (IPL), Jansen finished as PBKS joint second-highest wicket-taker with 16 scalps from 14 matches. While known for his Power-play spells, Jansens best returns came in the middle overs, where he claimed six wickets at 8.5 runs per over. After having a good time for the Proteas in the T20 World Cup, Jansen has been a vital cog in PBKS bowling wheel, as the side remains the only unbeaten team in IPL 2026. In a virtual roundtable chat facilitated by the franchise ahead of their clash against Delhi Capitals, Jansen reflected on skipper Shreyas Iyer, being a first-change bowler, how hard lengths have given him good returns in the shortest format, and more. Excerpts: Q. What kind of leader is Shreyas Iyer, and the reason behind him being an inspirational skipper A. Shreyas, as a captain, is definitely up there, if not on top. He's a pleasure to work with. He knows what he's doing. He knows what he wants from the players. He motivates and drives us to play our best. It gives us the space to do what we do well, if that makes sense. It's not a case of it's his way or the highway type of thing, which I think is a very nice feeling as a bowler and a player. He knows what he wants. He knows what he wants to achieve. He's very goal-driven. He's very headstrong. It's very easy to see when we are in meetings and stuff like that, and in training. He's very driven. I think from a team's point of view, it's nice to have a captain like that. So it's like you sort of just follow his lead. He's going to lead the team in a way where it's going to put the team in a position to not just win games, but also, if you're lucky enough, win a trophy as well. It's nice to play under his captaincy. He's up for discussions. He's always welcoming. It's never a case of it feels like a dictatorship. He makes everyone feel valued and welcomed. As a player, it's very, very nice to have a captain like that where you feel you can go to the captain, you can express, or you can speak about certain things about the game. Not just that, but he'll give his advice, or he'll give his two cents about it as well, and then he'll formulate a plan with you to help you get better if need be and to take the team forward and stuff like that, which is nice. Q. With Xavier Bartlett sharing the new ball with Arshdeep Singh, how has it been for you to adapt, especially with batters looking to hit hard at the bowlers? A. I'm used to taking the first or second over, but I also know that I do have the skills to adapt to whatever situation or to adapt to any situation or any particular time in the match to come in and do a job for the team. Obviously, as a swing bowler or someone who's used to bowling with the new ball, you do have a weapon in your hand as well. So coming in in the third, fourth, or sometimes fifth over is definitely a different approach that I had to take. But it's not a case of me thinking that I can't do a job or I can't take wickets or thinking, okay, cool, there is my weapon taken away. It's nothing like that. Its actually the opposite because Arshdeep and Xavier swing the ball consistently and more than I do. I understand that. At the same time, I also realise and understand that I have different attributes, different skills that I bring to the bowling unit and to the table. It's just from a bowling unit; everyone knows that wherever we bowl, there's a plan, there's a reason. It's not a case of, in my case, that they don't believe I can't do a good job bowling the first or second over with the new ball. It's a case of how are we going to bowl well with the ball as a unit, if that makes sense. Yuzi (Chahal) is bowling in the middle, Shashank is not bowling in the first few games, and then all of a sudden comes in and takes two in his first over in this season. So I think it's a good place to be. It's a nice place to be at as a bowler and a player and as a bowling unit because we know it doesn't matter where we bowl, or where Shreyas decides to bowl a certain bowler or a particular bowler. We know there's a reason behind it, and we know that whoever has the ball in his hands at that particular time, whether it's in a power play in the middle or at the death, we fully believe and we trust that that guy will do the best job for the team. Q. You have been sticking to hard lengths more often than not. Do you think that has been one of the reasons for you doing well in both Test cricket and T20 as well? A. It doesn't surprise me because Josh Hazlewood does the exact same. People still ask the same. I still ask the same question. How does he just hit a length and he picks up wickets, he doesn't go for a lot of runs, and he's consistent as well. He also has variations. I also have one or two variations. But I think it comes down to both of us. We're tall bowlers. We bowl different lengths. There's something different we give to a bowling unit that makes sense. I think the problem, especially when I was younger, was that I came in where I was trying to bowl similar to what other guys were bowling, if it makes sense. Not realising that what I bring to the table is different or is completely different from what other bowlers are bringing to the table. I have to find my own way to be effective and to put in consistent performances for the team. I think the last year or so, I've felt comfortable in my own skin. I've felt comfortable in doing what I feel is best to help me stay consistent and perform consistently. Obviously, you're going to get your off days, but the goal is just to try and stay consistent and not have those good performances few and far between so try and stack them as close as possible. Q. Do you have a different approach to your bowling plan for the afternoon matches compared to the evening ones, keeping in mind the pitch and conditions? A. No, it's the same approach. I think just what I bowl or the options change based on the conditions. So if a wicket is good, like the previous game, the wicket was really, really good for batting, we felt. That approach, sort of on the go, you sort of try and formulate a way of going about it. There's no set way of bowling, or there are no preconceived ideas about how I want to go about it. I obviously have the basics that I stick to and that I always do, and I always follow the processes that I follow. But it's always a case of trying to sum up the conditions as quickly as possible and then finding a way to be as effective as I can be on that particular day. Q. What has been the discussion within the bowling group, and how have you been able to support each other on the field in terms of defensive tactics in death overs? A. It's not a case of going defensively. I think it's a case of we're trying, we're always assessing and thinking of ways to stop the opposition from scoring and obviously make it as hard as possible for them to score runs, especially at the death and in the power play as well. But we just approach it differently because in the power play, you only have two fielders out, and at the death and in the middle overs, you have five fielders out. So it makes it a bit easier for us as a bowling unit to sort of bowl towards a certain plan if it makes sense to bowl. There are more fielders who can help you get wickets. A. It's not a case of going defensively. I think it's a case of we're trying, we're always assessing and thinking of ways to stop the opposition from scoring and obviously make it as hard as possible for them to score runs, especially at the death and in the power play as well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Because batters are so good, they hit sixes over the point these days. I don't know how they do it, but they do it. So it's quite difficult to set a particular plan for all the batters. It's just about trying to be smart and just basically keeping them on their toes. You always have to make the batter think twice or guess what the next ball is going to be. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: When And Where To Watch RCB Vs GT, Know All Details

Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International: Defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) will clash with 2022 champions Gujarat Titans (GT) in the 34th match of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 to be played at M.Chinnaswamy Stadium on Friday. The defending champions suffered their first home defeat of the season when they went down to the Delhi Capitals on April 18. Despite that setback, they have been among the standout sides in IPL 2026 and will aim to bounce back strongly in their final home fixture at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium. Following this game, they are scheduled to play their remaining two league-stage home matches at the Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh International Cricket Stadium in Raipur. Meanwhile, the Gujarat Titans head into the contest after a heavy 99-run defeat against the Mumbai Indians at the Narendra Modi Stadium on April 20. That loss ended their three-match winning run, and they will be keen to regroup quickly. However, overcoming one of the IPLs most challenging venues presents a significant test. The head-to-head record between Royal Challengers Bengaluru and Gujarat Titans has been evenly contested over the years. In six matches played so far, both teams have won three games each, with no ties or no results recorded. Their first-ever meeting came on April 30, 2022, which was won by the Gujarat Titans, and they also emerged victorious in the most recent encounter on April 2, 2025. When: Friday, April 24, 7:30 PM IST Where: M.Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru Where to watch: The RCB vs GT match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Squads: Where to watch: The RCB vs GT match will be broadcast on Star Sports channels, with JioHotstar live-streaming the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Philip Salt, Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Rajat Patidar(c), Jitesh Sharma(w), Tim David, Romario Shepherd, Krunal Pandya, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Josh Hazlewood, Suyash Sharma, Rasikh Salam Dar, Venkatesh Iyer, Jordan Cox, Kanishk Chouhan, Mangesh Yadav, Jacob Duffy, Swapnil Singh, Nuwan Thushara, Jacob Bethell, Vicky Ostwal, Vihaan Malhotra, Abhinandan Singh, Satvik Deswal Article Source: IANS

CSK sign up Akash Madhwal as Ayush Mhatre's replacement

Madhwal has played 17 games in the IPL so far and has been part of the MI camp as a net bowler this season

IPL 2026: 'We Back Each Other' - Jansen Credits Collective Thinking For PBKS' Good Run With Ball

Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings left-arm fast bowling all-rounder Marco Jansen said the team's impressive run with the ball in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season is down to one simple principle - collective thinking and backing each other to thrive. While the power-packed PBKS batting unit continues to hog the limelight, Jansen, along with Arshdeep Singh, Xavier Bartlett, Vijaykumar Vyshak, and Yuzvendra Chahal, have provided a lot of variety to their bowling attack in this season so far, with their economy rate standing at 9.64. All the attention and all the fireworks, as you say, are around our batting. I think it's not just our batting, but it's the whole IPL in general. People want to come out and watch the ball fly everywhere. People hit 110-meter sixes and stuff like that, which is understandable. That's what makes the game attractive to the viewers. We as players understand that. But at the same time, people also value, and they also appreciate good bowling. For us as a unit, I think we know exactly what each and every bowler can do and what he does best. I think on a particular day, it's a case of reading the conditions, trying multiple options, Jansen told IANS in a virtual roundtable chat organised by the franchise on Thursday. At the heart of that collective approach, Jansen explained, is a dressing room culture in which every bowler's voice carries weight and no single template is imposed on anyone. If it needs to be, if not, then we just keep it simple. But I think everyone has different skills. Everyone has a different way of going about it. Everyone has a different way of going about bowling in different situations. I think what we've done really well is that it's not a one-size-fits-all approach, if it makes sense. It's sort of like, okay, Vyshak, what do you do? Or what are you thinking? Arsh, what are you thinking? Marco, what do you think? I think we've done really well in embracing each and every opinion and each and every one's view on how they think would be best to go about it, and we sort of back each other. We understand and support one another in whatever way they feel is the best way for them to do a good job for the team, he added. PBKSs attack has built a quiet reputation for control, showing sharp defensive skills at the back end by holding Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mumbai Indians to totals well below expectations. Jansen also made it clear that this spirit of backing one another translates directly onto the field, where bowlers feel confident enough to execute skills they have specifically worked on in the nets. PBKSs attack has built a quiet reputation for control, showing sharp defensive skills at the back end by holding Chennai Super Kings, Sunrisers Hyderabad, and Mumbai Indians to totals well below expectations. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So I think for us, it's nice to see that we're at least executing what we're training to do. Also, we're actually going into games and match days where we've trained a particular skill and are executing that and putting the team in a position where we can win that particular game, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: CSK Sign Akash Madhwal As Replacement For Injured Mhatre

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have signed Akash Madhwal as a replacement for Ayush Mhatre, who has been ruled out of the remainder of the IPL 2026 due to a hamstring injury, for a fee of Rs. 30 Lakh. Having served as a net bowler for the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in IPL 2021, Madhwal, a right-arm fast bowler, made his debut for the Mumbai Indians in 2023, wherein he took a five-wicket haul with impressive figures of 5/5 in his debut season for MI in the crucial IPL 2023 Eliminator against the Lucknow Super Giants. However, his performance declined in the 2024 season, where he took only five wickets in five matches. In the previous edition, he played for Rajasthan Royals, claiming four wickets in four games. Overall, he has 23 wickets from 17 matches in the tournament but went unsold at the IPL 2026 auction. Madhwal, a 32-year-old uncapped Indian right-arm medium-fast bowler from Roorkee, was named captain of Uttarakhand for the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy ahead of the 2022-23 domestic season, highlighting his rising prominence in the circuit. However, his performance declined in the 2024 season, where he took only five wickets in five matches. In the previous edition, he played for Rajasthan Royals, claiming four wickets in four games. Overall, he has 23 wickets from 17 matches in the tournament but went unsold at the IPL 2026 auction. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai played their first match without Khaleel against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH), conceding 194 runs in 20 overs, and then lost the game. Meanwhile, Mhatre, Indias U19 World Cup-winning captain, began the season strongly for CSK, scoring two fifties in six matches before suffering a left hamstring injury while batting in their recent game against SRH. Article Source: IANS

'Team audit' done, Kirsten hopes Sri Lanka keep 'progressing and improving'

For me, what's important around that is that we have a lot of depth in the group across the different formats, Gary Kirsten says about the time ahead with Sri Lanka

Nuwan Thusara withdraws lawsuit against Sri Lanka Cricket

Nuwan Thushara is yet to join RCB at IPL 2026 but the team hasn't named a replacement for him yet

Shanto century takes Bangladesh to 265 in humid Chattogram

He stitched together 160 runs during his fourth-wicket stand with Litton Das, who scored his first ODI fifty in almost three years

'Pooran Is The Catalyst In This': Steyn Points To Instability Behind LSGs Home Struggles

Former South Africa: Former South Africa pacer Dale Steyn offered a critical assessment of Ekanas surface, pointing towards inconsistent selection calls and the dip in form of key batter Nicholas Pooran as underlying issues after Lucknow Super Giants struggles at home continued with a 40-run defeat to Rajasthan Royals, marking their third consecutive loss at home. Head coach Justin Langer attributed the latest setback to the teams inability to adjust to local conditions, describing the surface as a rilliant cricket pitch but stressing that the players failed to adapt effectively. LSG's batting order has seen frequent reshuffling this season. In the latest game, Mitchell Marsh opened alongside Ayush Badoni, while Aiden Markram, who had previously opened, was pushed down to No. 4, following Rishabh Pant and Pooran. The constant tinkering, particularly in the middle order, has disrupted continuity, with players adjusting to unfamiliar roles. Steyn believes the uncertainty stems largely from the team managements dilemma over Poorans form and place in the XI. Pooran is the catalyst in this. The poor form of Pooran just means that you're moving good batters (around) to try and shepherd him. Because I think there's a seed of doubt in the coach's minds that they know they need to play him because of what his potential is, Steyn told ESPNCricinfo. Elaborating further, Steyn suggested that this lack of decisiveness is affecting the overall structure of the batting lineup, forcing proven performers to shift positions in search of balance. Pooran is the catalyst in this. The poor form of Pooran just means that you're moving good batters (around) to try and shepherd him. Because I think there's a seed of doubt in the coach's minds that they know they need to play him because of what his potential is, Steyn told ESPNCricinfo. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With three losses in as many home games, LSG now find themselves under pressure to address both form and strategy, as questions continue to mount over their team combinations and decision-making in a tightly contested season. Article Source: IANS

'If County Cricket Was As Strong As...': Pietersen Hits Back At Cook Over Bethell's IPL Stint

Chennai Super Kings: England great Kevin Pietersen hit back at former teammate Alastair Cook for advising Jacob Bethell to leave the IPL due to no game time and return home to play County cricket, saying the ex-England skipper has no idea what it's like to be in the IPL. RCB acquired Bethell for Rs 2.60 crore ahead of IPL 2025 and retained him for the 2026 season. The all-rounder, who played two games and impressed with a 33-ball 55 against Chennai Super Kings last year, is yet to play a match in the IPL 2026. Bethell had scored a century against Australia in an Ashes Test in Sydney, recorded his maiden ODI century against South Africa and was England's highest run-getter at the 2026 T20 World Cup, scoring 280 runs in eight innings, striking at 152.17. Cook earlier suggested that Bethell should turn to county cricket, with his place at stake for this summers Test series against New Zealand and Sri Lanka, rather than sitting and not doing anything at the IPL. It's not ideal, is it? He's sitting at the IPL, not doing anything. Ideally, he could come back and open for Warwickshire to help England, Cook had said on the 'Stick to Cricket' podcast. However, Pietersen expressed strong disagreement with Cook's opinion, stating that Cook has no idea what it's like to be around the best players in the world and supported Bethell's stay in India. Alastair Cook has absolutely NO IDEA what it's like to be in the IPL. What's it like to always be around the best players in the world. So his opinion on Jacob Bethell doesn't matter at all. Stay in India, Jacob. I know, even though you're not playing, you're learning and will be a way better player, Pieterson shared on X. However, Pietersen expressed strong disagreement with Cook's opinion, stating that Cook has no idea what it's like to be around the best players in the world and supported Bethell's stay in India. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If county cricket was as strong as it was in the late 90s and early 2000s, I'd also want Bethell back playing it now. But, it's NOT! It'll benefit England more by him being in India and he's already shown that, he shared in another X post. Article Source: IANS

3rd WT20I: Wolvaardt Happy With Balance In Power Hitting After Unbeaten Ton Against India

South Africa: South Africa skipper Laura Wolvaardt said she was happy in finding the right balance between traditional strokeplay and power hitting, something which she admitted to working on for the last few years, while hitting a sizzling 15 against India in the third T20I at the Wanderers Stadium. Laura made 115 from just 53 balls as South Africa chased down India's total of 192/4 in 16.3 overs and took an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-game series. I am striking it pretty nicely. Something Ive been working on quite a lot the last couple of years is my power hitting, but Im also trying to find the balance between trying to whack it and still keeping my strokes and the way that I play. Im obviously known for more traditional cricket, and sometimes I lose it a bit, try to hit it a bit too hard and lose my game. But I feel like I found the balance nicely to still keep my shape and hit some big shots, said Laura at the conclusion of the game. While smashing 14 fours and five sixes, Laura brought up her century in just 47 deliveries and equal the record for the fourth fastest hundred ever in women's T20I cricket. Obviously worked on a lot of different stuff. But then I felt sometimes I lose my cover drive and I sort of just look at that sort of power hitting, muscling kind of thing. But I think the key thing for me is still my positions. Like yesterday in my training session, I literally just hit cover drives on the floor because I feel like if my positioning is good in that, then the rest of the game will take care of itself. So technically, I'm just trying to be in really strong positions. Just trying to hit long through the ball. It has been a work in progress, sort of finding the balance between trying to whack it in the power play and trying to play my game and to my strengths. But yeah, happy with how it went, she added. Laura also put on a whopping 183 for the opening stand with fellow opener Sune Luus - the second time the pair have combined for a century partnership in the ongoing series. It was an excellent innings (from Luus). I thought she was a little scratchy in the powerplay but she didnt get a lot of strike because I was facing a lot. It was really impressive to see how she hung in there and I think she has a lot of different options which makes it quite hard to bowl to her, especially the spinners in the powerplay because she sweeps so well and she can hit down the ground. Laura also put on a whopping 183 for the opening stand with fellow opener Sune Luus - the second time the pair have combined for a century partnership in the ongoing series. It was an excellent innings (from Luus). I thought she was a little scratchy in the powerplay but she didnt get a lot of strike because I was facing a lot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa will next take on India in the fourth T20I at the Wanderers on Saturday before the series concludes in Benoni on Monday. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Pant's Yet To Find His Template For White-ball Cricket, Says Karim

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) captain Rishabh Pants struggles in IPL 2026 are rooted in his inability to find a clear batting template for himself in white-ball cricket, said former India wicketkeeper Saba Karim. Pant was dismissed for a three-ball duck on Wednesday, as LSG suffered their fourth consecutive loss of this season. His overall tally in IPL 2026 stands at 147 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 132.43. A modern T20 batter has to find his own template. For instance, whether it is Shreyas Iyer or Rajat Patidar, even if Rajat Patidar goes in to bat on a track like this, I'm sure he's got his clarity in his mind that he will go and play the big shots, and he's confident of doing so. Rishabh Pant's problem lies in the fact that he's yet to find his template for white-ball cricket. And not only talking about T20, even ODIs. And Test-match batting for him, I think there is more transparency in his thought process the way he prepares. I think somehow in white-ball cricket he's yet to find that, said Karim on ESPNCricinfo. Pants inconsistency has been a major talking point in IPL 2026. While he struck 68 not out against Sunrisers Hyderabad earlier in the season, his other innings have failed to leave an impact as a number three batter. While South Africa pacer Dale Steyn suggested Pant is playing more than one game in his head right now, Faf du Plessis remarked that the pressure to emulate in-form captains like Shreyas Iyer and Rajat Patidar is weighing heavily on Pant. You look at innings like that - who can we look who does that well? So how many times out of ten if you put Virat Kohli in that situation is he going to play in a tempo that's going to be: I'm not going to face dot balls; I'm going to hit the ball along the ground; I'm going to be 60 not out and that's a picture for you on tough wickets when the scoreboard is saying (the target is) 160. How do you get to the end? Look at (Kohli) - he is a great example. High intensity. Drops the risk a little bit. Hits gaps, hits fours, runs really hard, no dot balls. That is a very modern way of playing. It's a default of our game is right now. A lot of teams are talking about how you must be aggressive, how you must take the game on. And, as a captain, you feel that responsibility lies with you to demonstrate that. Great examples: Rajat Patidar is leading the way that the RCB batting line-up's playing, and Shreyas Iyer is leading the way (with) the style of batting (for PBKS). So the captain sets the tone. You almost can't blame Pant (for) thinking 'I need to do the same'. But it wasn't there; you needed just a calm head, just to go The wicket was tough and 'I need to scratch my way to the end of the game,' he elaborated. How do you get to the end? Look at (Kohli) - he is a great example. High intensity. Drops the risk a little bit. Hits gaps, hits fours, runs really hard, no dot balls. That is a very modern way of playing. It's a default of our game is right now. A lot of teams are talking about how you must be aggressive, how you must take the game on. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As a top-order batter with a lot of international runs and experience, this is something he would be very disappointed with. His body language said it all; he knew he got it wrong. If he applies more clarity to his approach early on, he will get far better returns. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Dominance Is Our Mindset, But Adaptability Is Our Strength, Says RCB Skipper Patidar

Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain Rajat Patidar has attributed his sides strong start to IPL 2026 to a balance between aggressive intent and situational adaptability, as the defending champions continue to build momentum with eight points from six matches. Speaking on the RCB Podcast, Patidar emphasised that while the teams core philosophy revolves around dominance, flexibility remains key to their success as a batting unit. Dominance is our mindset, but we dont want to be rigid. We want to assess the situation and adapt. That flexibility is very important for us as a batting unit, he said on the RCB Podcast. Patidar himself has led from the front with the bat, scoring 230 runs at an exceptional strike rate, and credited a shift in mindset as the driving force behind his evolution as a batter. The biggest change in my batting has come from the mind. How I see the game, how I see myself in a situation, and how I want to dominate, everything started from there. I worked on a few trigger movements and discussed it with DK. Once I was convinced, I didnt want to hold back in matches. That clarity helped me execute better, he said. Highlighting RCBs fearless batting template, Patidar underlined that instinct often takes precedence over rigid planning, particularly when it comes to taking on bowlers and maintaining pressure. There is no fixed plan that I will play a certain way. If I feel I can dominate a bowler, I go for it. It is more instinct than planning. If someone feels they can dominate a bowler, they take responsibility. Even if it means not rotating strike. The idea is to keep the bowler under pressure, he stated. On leadership, Patidar described himself as someone who prioritises the mental space of his bowlers, especially in the high-pressure T20 format, while maintaining a calm demeanour on the field, as he said, I see myself as a bowling captain. In T20 cricket, bowlers are always under pressure, so I try to keep them in a good space and not show too many reactions. I am not very expressive by nature. I try to stay calm and think clearly in every situation. I dont want to change who I am as a person. The RCB skipper also spoke about the influence of senior players in shaping his outlook, particularly the importance of staying present and focused on controllable factors. He said, I have learnt a lot by observing players like Virat bhai. The biggest thing is to stay in the present and focus only on what is in your control. I dont think about selection or what people are saying. I focus on what I can do in the present. That gives me clarity and calmness. Reflecting on RCBs title-winning campaign last season, Patidar admitted the significance of the achievement truly resonated only after witnessing the fans reactions, while also acknowledging the pressure moments that came with it. When we won, it felt special, but when I saw the fans and their reactions, I realised something big had happened. That is when it really sank in. In the last over, even though we knew we were close, there was still a thought that something could go wrong. That pressure is natural in such moments, Patidar noted. Reflecting on RCBs title-winning campaign last season, Patidar admitted the significance of the achievement truly resonated only after witnessing the fans reactions, while also acknowledging the pressure moments that came with it. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead, Patidar reiterated that the team remains grounded despite their success, focusing on processes rather than past achievements. As champions, every team will come harder at us. But for us, it is about staying in the present, focusing on our process, and controlling what we can, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: LSG Batter Have Just Not Adjusted To Extra Pace And Bounce On Pitches At Home, Says Langer

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants head coach (LSG) Justin Langer admitted his batters have struggled to cope and adjust to the extra pace and bounce at the BRSABV Ekana Stadium and equated the pitches here to playing at the WACA in his hometown Perth. LSG have lost all of their home games so far in IPL 2026, with the latest instance of it coming through a 40-run defeat to Rajasthan Royals on Wednesday. I think the pitch here is very different than in most of India. It's a brilliant cricket pitch. You see pace and bounce and we just haven't quite adjusted to it. I thought we started off with bowling quite well in it. We bowled well in the first game but we're just not adjusting to the extra pace and bounce. We saw that we've been out to the short ball a number of times, our batters, and that's what I would say, Langer said at the postmatch presser. The sides batting returns at the venue this season have been modest as seen from them making 141, 164/8 and 119. So we're not adjusting. We see a lot of the wickets in India where the ball doesn't bounce very high. This is like playing at the WACA (Perth). There's real pace and bounce, isn't there? I mean you're seeing some really interesting cricket being played here and we just haven't been able to adapt to it at this stage. We haven't quite clicked, have we? added Langer. Despite the batting woes, Langer praised his pace unit, especially singling out young fast bowlers Mohsin Khan and Prince Yadav. Last year our numbers were incredible and we were ruing the fact that a lot of our bowlers were injured or coming back from injury or not quite fit. This year our bowlers have been a real credit. I think Mohsin Khan, again outstanding. Prince Yadav, I think they're both two players who will play for India. No question in my mind they'll both play for India, he added. On whether the franchise had any say in pitch preparation, Langer reiterated his admiration for the surface, and added that the onus was on the LSG batters to adapt to conditions on offer. This year our bowlers have been a real credit. I think Mohsin Khan, again outstanding. Prince Yadav, I think they're both two players who will play for India. No question in my mind they'll both play for India, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We get to play a bit here but this is, we've got a very good groundsman. We've got a great cricket pitch. Every game's exciting cricket. We've just been on the wrong side of it so far, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Ed Smith joins ECB board as non-executive director

Former national selector returns to governing body in place of outgoing Baroness Zahida Manzoor

Dont Overwork Them; Players Need Time With Families: Lalit Modi Blasts BCCI Over 'outrageous Scheduling'

Former Indian Premier League: Former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi launched a scathing critique of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) on Thursday, accusing the governing body of killing its players through hectic scheduling, emphasising that players need off time to spend with their families. Earlier, several reports suggested that head coach Gautam Gambhir and captain Shubman Gill are reportedly not happy with BCCI deciding to schedule the Afghanistan Test just days after the conclusion of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. In a social media post, Modi reacted to reports of senior players potentially being rested for upcoming international fixtures due to burnout following the IPL 2026 season. He urged the Board to cease the outrageous scheduling to the welfare of the players. I agree. The BCCI are killing their players with the hectic scheduling. Guys stop this outrageous scheduling you are putting the boys through. They need time with their families and JUST OFF TIME you dont need the money. I CREATED ANNUITY REVENUE which the world envys. You will never have to worry about that sitting on those chairs. Do something good with your decisions, for heaven's sake. The welfare of the players is paramount. Dont overwork them that's why I have said the Board should have a majority of players on it. In a social media post, Modi reacted to reports of senior players potentially being rested for upcoming international fixtures due to burnout following the IPL 2026 season. He urged the Board to cease the outrageous scheduling to the welfare of the players. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The India vs Afghanistan Test doesn't have World Test Championship points at stake. Hence, the selectors can afford to take the match a little easier and give opportunities to some emerging stars. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: I Was Just Calculating The Overs, Jadeja Explains Tactical Wit In RRs Win

Lucknow Super Giants: Ravindra Jadeja explained the strategy behind his influential innings and tactical bowling adjustments following Rajasthan Royals' 40-run victory over Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Stadium in IPL 2026. Jadejas unbeaten 43 off 29 balls came when RR were struggling at 110/6, and his late charge with Shubham Dubey raised the visitors' total to 159, a score that was more than sufficient on a difficult pitch. Jadeja reflected that the pitch and LSGs pace attack made early strokeplay challenging, considering the conditions and his batting approach. When I was batting, it wasnt that easy. LSG have quality fast bowlers, who were bowling with pace and in good areas. It was a red-soil surface, so there was bounce, and they were getting the ball to seam. We kept losing wickets and couldnt build any partnerships. So, Donovan and I spoke about taking the innings deep. But in T20 cricket, you have to keep taking risks here and there to get to a good score. Unfortunately, he got out at the wrong time, Jadeja told JioStar. I was just calculating the overs and was aware that Mayank Yadav might bowl the final over. I just wanted to use his pace, with a short leg-side boundary and mid-off and mid-on both up. Three of the deliveries were short, and he played a bluff by bowling one full, but luckily, I was able to score a boundary off that as well. We got those 20 runs, and as a team, you gain confidence when your bowlers have a few extra runs to play with, he added. Jadejas late acceleration, particularly the 20-run final over off Mayank Yadav, shifted momentum decisively in RRs favour, giving their bowlers a cushion to attack. The all-rounder also shed light on his bowling strategy, which played a role in choking LSGs middle order, including the key wicket of Nicholas Pooran. When I was batting against Digvesh Rathi, a few of his deliveries were stopping in the wicket. So, I thought that if I bowled slow on this surface, I might get some purchase as well. I didnt want to give any pace to either Mitch Marsh or Pooran, because they are big hitters and are known to hit big. So, I bowled slower, but I also wanted to vary my pace, as I didnt want to be predictable. If they hit a six or two, all the pressure built earlier gets released, reducing the margin of runs required, he stated. His disciplined spell complemented a fiery effort from Jofra Archer, who returned figures of 3-20, as RR bowled LSG out for just 119 in 18 overs. Jadeja also addressed questions around his role and adaptability, especially after not completing his full quota of overs in some earlier games, stressing that team requirements always come first. When I come to the ground, I leave my personal ego in the hotel room. I just think about contributing in whatever way the team wants from me. When it comes to batting, I wanted to take it deep in this game, because if I had gotten out in the 17th or 18th over playing a wrong shot, we wouldnt have reached 159 and might have fallen 2025 runs short. His disciplined spell complemented a fiery effort from Jofra Archer, who returned figures of 3-20, as RR bowled LSG out for just 119 in 18 overs. Jadeja also addressed questions around his role and adaptability, especially after not completing his full quota of overs in some earlier games, stressing that team requirements always come first. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The win lifted Rajasthan Royals to second place on the points table, while LSG slumped to their fourth straight defeat. Article Source: IANS

ICC calls Knight Riders' MLC base in Pomona 'cricket's home for LA28'

The venue at Fairplex will serve as Los Angeles Knight Riders' home venue at MLC 2026 and is expected to be the primary venue for cricket at the 2028 Olympic Games

DC Pacer Starc Cleared By Cricket Australia, Set For IPL Return From May 1

Indian Premier League: Australia pace spearhead Mitchell Starc has received clearance from Cricket Australia to resume competitive cricket and is set to join Delhi Capitals in India for the remainder of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season. Starc, who had been recovering from elbow and shoulder issues sustained during the Australian summer, is expected to link up with DC shortly and gradually build his bowling workload. The left-arm quick is likely to make his first appearance of the season in Delhis May 1 clash against Rajasthan Royals, after missing the initial phase of the tournament. The injury setback came after an intense stretch of cricket for Australia, where Starc featured in all five Tests during their dominant 4-1 Ashes triumph, earning player-of-the-series honours, before turning out for the Sydney Sixers in the Big Bash League. Delhi Capitals, who currently sit fifth on the points table with a 3-3 record, will hope Starcs arrival boosts their bowling attack, led so far by Lungi Ngidi, who has picked up seven wickets in six matches. Starc had earlier addressed criticism surrounding his delayed arrival through a strongly worded social media post, reaffirming his commitment to the franchise. Despite the opinions and views of certain individuals with their platforms in and through the Indian media, I'm currently rehabbing and managing an injury in my shoulder and elbow of which I didn't know the extent of during the Australian summer. These individuals have made some strong statements around involvement in the IPL and provided heavily misinformed opinions of players, preached them as facts, and claim to know my body better than me. Starc had earlier addressed criticism surrounding his delayed arrival through a strongly worded social media post, reaffirming his commitment to the franchise. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, fellow Australian quick Pat Cummins is also set to play his first game of the season and return to captaincy for SRH this weekend. Cummins, who has been managing a back stress issue, was recently cleared to return to action following positive scan results and is expected to feature in Hyderabads upcoming fixture against Rajasthan. Article Source: IANS

Playing 'more than one game in his head' confusing Pant

Rishabh Pant's problem lies in the fact that he's yet to find his template for white-ball cricket, Saba Karim says after the LSG captain's latest failure

Inter Miami Beat Salt Lake To Extend Unbeaten Streak To Eight

Inter Miami CF: Inter Miami CF sealed a valuable 2-0 victory on the road over Real Salt Lake here at America First Field with stunners from midfielder Rodrigo De Paul and striker Luis Suarez securing the result. With the win, Inter Miami extended its current unbeaten run this regular season to eight, and improved its record on the road to five wins, a draw, and a loss for a total 16 points - the best record on the road this season in MLS. The first 45 minutes presented a close matchup. Messi generated the best chance during the first half in the 22nd minute, with a left-footed hit from the left end of the box that forced a save from RSLs keeper. The match ultimately remained scoreless entering half time. The start of the second half presented a key intervention in goal from St. Clair in the 59th minute. The Canadian international stood tall to deny Alexandros Katraniss attempt from the center of the box, Inter Miami reports. Miami broke the deadlock through a stunner from De Paul in the 82nd minute. Segovia played a pass to De Paul outside the box down the left side of the pitch directly from a corner kick, where El Motorcito set up before curling the ball to the top-right corner from long range as he tallied his second strike this regular season. The assist, meanwhile, was Segovias fifth as he remains our top assist provider this league campaign. The start of the second half presented a key intervention in goal from St. Clair in the 59th minute. The Canadian international stood tall to deny Alexandros Katraniss attempt from the center of the box, Inter Miami reports. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 0-2 scoreline held through the final whistle for Inter Miami to pick up a second consecutive victory on the road and extend its unbeaten run to eight in MLS regular season action. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Nandre Burger Fined For Code Of Conduct Breach

Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Rajasthan Royals fast bowler Nandre Burger was fined 10 per cent of his match fees and received one demerit point for violating the IPL Code of Conduct during the teams recent match against Lucknow Super Giants. RR clinched a 40-run victory after restricting the Rishabh Pant-led side to 119 in 18 overs in their chase of 160 runs. The South Africa international admitted to a Level 1 offence under Article 2.5, which relates to using language, actions, or gestures that could disparage or provoke an aggressive response from another player during the match. During the match on Wednesday, Burger was gestured aggressively and was seen using abusive language towards LSG kipper Pant after dismissing him for a duck. He took two key wickets, including that of Mitchell Marsh, in a low-scoring match, helping RR clinch a crucial win. Nandre Burger, Bowler, Rajasthan Royals (RR) has been fined 10 per cent of his match fees and has also accumulated One Demerit Point for breaching the IPL Code of Conduct during his teams match against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow on Wednesday, the IPL said in a statement. Nandre Burger admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.5 - pertaining to using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a another player in the Match - and accepted the Match Referees sanction. For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referees decision is final and binding, it stated further. As per the IPL Code of Conduct, the accumulation of four demerit points converts into a suspension point, resulting in a one-match ban once that threshold is reached. With these points staying on a players record for 36 months, Burger will have to tread carefully going forward. While the governing body did not specify the exact offence, it is understood that his actions likely involved abusive language and animated gestures, particularly following Pants dismissal. Nandre Burger admitted to the Level 1 offence under Article 2.5 - pertaining to using language, actions or gestures which disparage or which could provoke an aggressive reaction from a another player in the Match - and accepted the Match Referees sanction. For Level 1 breaches of the Code of Conduct, the Match Referees decision is final and binding, it stated further. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In reply, LSG had a disastrous start, losing three wickets for 16 runs, including captain Rishabh Pant and Aiden Markram for ducks. Archers 3-20 set the tone, while Nandre and Brijesh Sharma took two wickets each. Marsh scored 55 but lacked support as wickets fell regularly. Nicholas Pooran made 22, but the chase faltered after the early collapse and LSG could never get back in the game. Article Source: IANS

New Zealand opt to field; Tanvir, Mustafizur in for Bangladesh

New Zealand brought in left-arm fast bowler Ben Lister with the series currently level 1-1

The Venue Will Take Centre-stage During The Games, Says ICC Chair Jay Shah As LA28 Stadium Construction Begins

ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta: The International Cricket Council (ICC) has welcomed the start of construction of the cricket stadium at Pomona in Los Angeles County, California, marking a major milestone as the sport prepares for its historic Olympic return at LA28 after 128 years. A ground-breaking ceremony was held on the Fairplex Grounds in Pomona on Wednesday, which ICC Chairman Jay Shah termed as a major milestone for the game and its 2.5 billion fans worldwide. These are very exciting times for the game of cricket as it makes giant strides in establishing itself as a global sport. Our focus has been on expanding the footprint of cricket and being part of the Olympic movement is something that brings both pride and dreams with it. The groundbreaking marks an important milestone in crickets return to the Olympics and is a proud moment for all ICC Members and stakeholders worldwide. Were confident this venue will take centre-stage during the Games and leave a legacy for cricket in the USA, Shah said in a statement. ICC Chief Executive Sanjog Gupta, who attended the ceremony, said the world body remains focused on expanding cricket globally, with its return to the Olympics marking a significant step towards that goal. This is a 'ground-breaking' moment in cricket's return to the Olympic Games, both for the sport and for the Olympic movement. The journey over the next two years will see many such milestones which enhance the sense of occasion, culture and community, as cricket's home for LA28 is built in Pomona. With the inclusion in the Olympic Games and other regional multi-sport events, cricket has already stepped into a new era of global growth powered by improved accessibility, elevated visibility and stronger institutional support. The momentum for our game has never been stronger, demonstrated by the recent ICC events which saw record-breaking stadia attendance as well as broadcast and digital engagement, coupled with deep cultural and socio-economic impact. Strong participation growth across the world and recent fan-first efforts by the ICC to grow key markets will further bolster cricket's march into the Olympics, he said. The other dignitaries attending the ground-breaking event were LA28 Vice President of Sports Niccolo Campriani, Pomona Mayor Tim Sandoval, Consul General of India in Los Angeles Dr. K. J. Srinivasa, Knight Riders Sports CEO Venky Mysore, and Fairplex President and CEO Walter Marquez. The momentum for our game has never been stronger, demonstrated by the recent ICC events which saw record-breaking stadia attendance as well as broadcast and digital engagement, coupled with deep cultural and socio-economic impact. Strong participation growth across the world and recent fan-first efforts by the ICC to grow key markets will further bolster cricket's march into the Olympics, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Being part of the Olympic movement helps get more funding and support from many governments and the gap between traditionally strong teams and others has reduced considerably in recent years, especially in the T20I format, which will feature in the Olympics for both men's and women's competitions. Article Source: IANS

Starc cleared to travel to India, hopeful of playing for DC in early May

Mitchell Starc has been cleared of shoulder and elbow issues and will travel to India on Friday with hopes of being available to play for Delhi Capitals on May 1

'Pooran is the catalyst' - Steyn on LSG's batting muddle

The poor form of Pooran just means that you're moving good batters to try and shepherd him, Dale Steyn says of LSG constantly tinkering with their batting order

Laura Wolvaardts Blazing Century Powers South Africa to Record Chase, Seal 3-0 Lead Over India

Riding on a commanding century from skipper Laura Wolvaardt South Africa produced a record-breaking chase to outclass India by nine wickets in the third womens T20I, here at The Wanderers Stadium on Thursday. With the win, the hosts took a 3-0 unassailable lead in the five-match series. Put in to bat after South Africa opted to field, India posted an imposing 192/4, their best batting effort of the series. The opening pair of Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma laid a solid foundation with a brisk 63-run stand inside eight overs. Mandhana looked fluent for her 37, but fell just as she was threatening to accelerate further. The innings briefly stuttered when Nonkululeko Mlaba struck twice in quick succession, removing Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues (0) off consecutive deliveries. However, Shafali continued her aggressive approach, bringing up a well-compiled half-century off 39 balls, laced with eight fours and two sixes. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur then took charge in the middle overs, counter-attacking with authority. The duo stitched together a crucial partnership that kept India on course for a big total. Shafali eventually departed for 64 off 46 balls, but Harmanpreet carried on, reaching her fifty in style and finishing with a commanding 66 off 38 deliveries, including seven fours and three sixes. A late flourish from Richa Ghosh (18 off 10) provided the finishing touches as India surged past the 190-run mark. Mlaba was the pick of the bowlers for South Africa with figures of 2/31, while the rest struggled to contain the scoring on a good batting surface. In response, South Africa came out all guns blazing, with Wolvaardt and Sune Luus dismantling the Indian bowling attack from the outset. The pair raced to 72 without loss in the powerplay, setting the tone for what turned out to be a historic chase. Wolvaardt was at her imperious best, capitalising on two dropped chances to make India pay dearly. Dropped on 31 and again on 85, the South African skipper made the reprieves count, registering her highest T20I score with a breathtaking 115 off just 53 balls, studded with 14 fours and five sixes. Luus provided excellent support at the other end, anchoring the innings with a composed 57 off 40 balls as the duo stitched together a match-winning partnership. The Indian bowlers struggled for answers throughout, lacking penetration and discipline, while sloppy fielding further compounded their woes. The breakthrough finally came in the 16th over when Wolvaardt was dismissed, but by then the damage had been done. South Africa comfortably chased down the target in just 16.3 overs, finishing at 193/1 to seal a comprehensive nine-wicket victory. Luus provided excellent support at the other end, anchoring the innings with a composed 57 off 40 balls as the duo stitched together a match-winning partnership. The Indian bowlers struggled for answers throughout, lacking penetration and discipline, while sloppy fielding further compounded their woes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 192/4 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 66, Shafali Verma 64; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-31, Nadine de Klerk 1-27) lost to South Africa 193/1 in 16.3 overs (Laura Wolvaardt 115, Sune Luus 64; Shreyanka Patil 1-30) by 9 wickets. Article Source: IANS

Prince Yadav joins Anshul Kamboj at the top of IPL 2026 Purple Cap table

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi endured another failure, but still managed to get past Virat Kohli to the fourth spot on the Orange Cap table

Sri Lanka Government Tells Cricket Board To Quit: Sources

Sri Lanka's government has urged the national cricket board's executive committee to make way for a new administration by this weekend, a board official told AFP on Wednesday. Sri Lanka Cricket is the country's richest sporting body but it has been plagued by allegations of corruption and mismanagement. It is currently led by four-time president Shammi Silva. There will be an interim administration headed by a former investment banker, the official said, asking not to be named. The government is responding to public anger. Sri Lanka made an early exit from the T20 World Cup, which it hosted with India in February-March. The International Cricket Council (ICC), the world governing body, suspended Sri Lanka's membership in November 2023 citing political interference in the running of the local board. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That suspension was lifted at the end of January 2024.

Sakib Hussain: IPL Quick Whose Mum Sold Her Jewellery To Fund Cricket Dream

Sakib Hussain's father is a labourer from India's poorest state and his mother sold her jewellery to buy him bowling boots. Their sacrifices -- and his tears -- paid off after the 21-year-old fast bowler made an instant impact in the Indian Premier League. He claimed 4-24 for Sunrisers Hyderabad against Rajasthan Royals on his debut this month. After three matches, Hussain averages a miserly 14.16 per wicket and has a superb economy rate of 7.08 -- up with the best in the T20 tournament that is a breeding ground for young Indian talent. Hussain started out playing cricket with a tennis ball in the lanes and patchy fields of the small northern town of Gopalganj in Bihar. Tales of Hussain's mother having to part with her jewellery to fund her son's cricketing footwear have gone viral in India. His father owned a small farm but a knee issue forced him to work as a labourer and earn 200-300 rupees ($2-$3) a day to run the house. It must have been a truly emotional moment for the family, former India pace bowler Irfan Pathan said after Hussain's debut, where his wickets included prolific opening batsman Yashasvi Jaiswal in his first over. He wanted to join the army but getting an opportunity at this level and stage and performing is a job well done. His slower (ball) is dangerous. Hussain was nicknamed the Rabada of Gopalganj locally as his bowling action, raw pace and accuracy began to earn comparisons with South Africa's renowned quick bowler Kagiso Rabada. Hussain's father knew he also had to support his son's cricket ambitions. I was a single earner when this trouble (knee pain) came, so I had to think about providing the basic needs like food for the family, his father was quoted as saying by Indian media. At the same time, people told me that my boy bowls very fast, so I told Sakib not to worry about expenses and focus on cricket. A local coach took Hussain under his wing and soon after he was playing for his state team. Hussain gained selection to the National Cricket Academy camp in Bengaluru, where he caught the attention of IPL teams while playing in the Syed Mushtaq Ali trophy, a national T20 competition. Hussain was part of the title-winning Kolkata Knight Riders IPL squad in 2024 but did not get a game in a pace attack led by Mitchell Starc. The 2016 winners Hyderabad snapped him at his base price of $32,000 in the December auction for this season. I had tears in my eyes when Hyderabad picked me in the auction, said Hussain. This tells you that if you have self-belief then you can achieve anything. My fight is with myself. His proud mother recalled the struggles of his cricketing journey. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He came one day and started crying and said, 'Mummy, I need spikes (boots). How will I play?'

'I just tried to win the game as quickly as I could' - Wolvaardt scorches 53-ball 115

Skipper not satisfied with 3-0 series win and wants to chase a five-match sweep against India

Wolvaardt seals series for SA with blazing hundred

The result means South Africa have won all three of their home series this season in preparation for June's T20 World Cup

MI vs CSK Match 33, IPL 2026: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction

MI vs CSK Match 33, Cricket Tips :The biggest IPL rivalry will be relived as two teams with ten titles between them will be up against each other in the upcoming contest. Mumbai Indians and Chennai Super Kings will take on each other on Thursday at 7:30 PM IST at Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. MI are coming off an important win from the last game. They beat Gujarat Titans by 99 runs, and Tilak Varma slammed his maiden IPL century. CSK lost their last game to Sunrisers Hyderabad. After the loss, Ayush Mhatre's injury came as a big setback for them. MS Dhoni is likely to be back, and so is Rohit Sharma. MI vs CSK: Match Details Date : April 23, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 7:30 PM IST Venue : Wankhede Stadium, Mumbai MI vs CSK Live Streaming Details The live action of the MI vs CSK clash will be available on the Star Sports networks. Fans can also watch the game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. MI vs CSK Head-to-Head in IPL Total Matches : 39 MI : 21 CSK : 18 No - Result : 00 MI vs CSK: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at Wankhede Stadium is expected to be flat, which will be high-scoring. Already big totals have been scored here. In three games, the scores have been 240, 220, and 196 in the first innings. There is not much for the bowlers, and the only way to deceive the batters is by change of pace. MI vs CSK Possible XIs MI : Rohit Sharma, Quinton de Kock (wk), Naman Dhir, Suryakumar Yadav, Hardik Pandya (c), Tilak Varma, Sherfane Rutherford, Mitch Santner, Krish Bhagat, Jasprit Bumrah, AM Ghazanfar CSK : Sanju Samson, Ruturaj Gaikwad (c), Sarfaraz Khan, Dewald Brevis, Shivam Dube, MS Dhoni (wk), Matthew Short, Jamie Overton, Anshul Kamboj, Noor Ahmad, Gurjapneet Singh MI vs CSK Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Tilak Varma scored a century in the previous game and is the man in form. For CSK, Sanju Samson holds the key with the bat. Probable Best Bowler Ashwani Kumar made an impact in the last game. He bowls very smartly and uses the crease well. For CSK, Anshul Kamboj has been consistent. He has the joint most wickets this season. Today Match Prediction : Injury to Ayush Mhatre has hurt CSK's combination. MI won the last game and have the momentum. Hence, we predict MI to win this game. MI vs CSK Match 33, IPL 2026, Today MI vs CSK Match, MI vs CSK Prediction, MI vs CSK Predicted XIs, Injury Update for MI vs CSK Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

Usman's century trumps Smith's as Kingsmen ace 214 chase

Usman's 44-ball hundred helped Kingsmen run down the second highest chase of the PSL this season

BAN vs NZ 3rd ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI

BAN vs NZ 3rd ODI , Cricket Tips: The three-match ODI series between Bangladesh and New Zealand is evenly poised, with both teams winning one game each. New Zealand won the first match, and Bangladesh responded with a dominating win in the second game. Now, the final game will decide the winner of the series. The third and final ODI will begin at 10:30 AM IST on Thursday at Bir Sreshtho Flight Lieutenant Matiur Rahman Stadium, Chattogram. Bangladesh were expected to bounce back after the first win, and they did it clinically. On the other hand, New Zealand had another disappointing batting display, and they failed to post a challenging score. BAN vs NZ: Match Details Date : March 23, 2026 (Thursday) Time : 10:30 AM IST Venue : Shere Bangla National Stadium, Dhaka BAN vs NZ: Live Streaming Details The live stream of the third and final ODI will be available on the FanCode mobile app or website in India. BAN vs. NZ: Head-to-Head in ODI Total Matches : 48 New Zealand : 35 Bangladesh : 12 No result/Tied: 01 BAN vs NZ: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at Chattogram is another slow track, which will assist the bowlers with pace and grip. There will be carry with the new ball, and spinners will get good turn and grip. Batters will get tough conditions to bat in. The average score is around 230-245. BAN vs NZ: Possible XIs Bangladesh : Saif Hassan, Tanzid Hasan Tamim, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Litton Das (wk), Towhid Hridoy, Soumya Sarkar, Rishad Hossain, Mehidy Hasan Miraz (c), Shoriful Islam, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana. New Zealand : Nick Kelly, Henry Nicholls, Will Young, Tom Latham (c) (wk), Muhammad Abbas, Dean Foxcroft, Nathan Smith, Josh Clarkson, Blair Tickner, Jayden Lennox, William O'Rourke. BAN vs NZ: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Tanzid Hasan played a blistering knock in the chase, and he is kind of a batter who can smash any bowler. For New Zealand, Nick Kelly looked good in the second game, and he will be confident of doing it again. Probable Best Bowler Nahid Rana used his pace and height to good effect and took five wickets. For New Zealand, Ben Sears is a threat for the hosts. Today's Match Prediction : These are tough conditions for the Kiwi batters, which was visible in the second game. Hence, we predict Bangladesh to win the final ODI. BAN vs NZ Match 3rd ODI, Today's Match BAN vs NZ, BAN vs NZ Prediction, BAN vs NZ Predicted XIs, Injury Update for BAN vs NZ Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The predictions or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

IPL 2026: Disappointed As A Team, Group, Have To Look For Answers Inside, Says Pant

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) skipper Rishabh Pant admitted the batting unit has been falling short, adding that the need of the hour is to find solutions within the group after suffering a 40-run loss to Rajasthan Royals in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 in Lucknow on Wednesday. LSG squandered the advantage received from incisive spells of Mohammed Shami, Mohsin Khan, and Prince Yadav as their batters fell in a heap to suffer their fourth consecutive defeat of IPL 2026. Chasing 160, a listless LSG folded for 119 in 18 overs - the slide triggered when skipper Rishabh Pant miscued to fall for a duck, as despite Mitchell Marsh hitting 55, it wasnt enough for the hosts to suffer another defeat at home. I think it is difficult to explain. Like, it's definitely our batting is letting us down, but at the same time, we are disappointed as a team, as a group, but at the same time, you've got to keep finding ways. You have to look for answers inside, not outside, but that's how it is as of now, Pant said after the match ended. He conceded the batting group could have shown more application, including himself. See, definitely we could have taken some time while batting, and at the same time, you know, not making any excuse out there, like including myself in that. We could have taken it a little deeper because I think the bowlers did a fantastic job, especially after the last game. As a batting group, we need to put our hand up and try to finish that job for the bowlers also, he added. Pant, however, remained optimistic about the sides prospects of bouncing back in the competition. There is still a lot we want to look at the positive side. We all know it's disappointing for us as a team, but we have to keep our head high and look for answers inside, and we surely know that we have enough firepower in our bowling and batting, and we can still turn it around. That's what I believe in. Meanwhile, Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag lauded his bowlers for adapting to conditions and delivering under pressure despite a modest total. Very pleased. Firstly, I feel we were really short with the bat. The way the wicket was playing when me and Hetty were batting, I think we've got to be better. I thought, honestly, even with the situation we had, we were close to getting 180, and that would have been a really good score because I knew it was going to be slowing down later, but the bowlers... No, it's because of the wickets that we won, he said. He also credited the groups adaptability in RR, moving to second place in the points table. At the start of the tournament, the message of the group was that we will be a team that assesses and adapts, and I feel in the last two games, the wickets we got, they adapted really well, and they batted according to the wicket and not just how they wanted to bat. It's nothing to do with the middle order not scoring or whatever it is. If they get a flat wicket, they go guns blazing. If they get another wicket like this, they can take some time, and then we move on from there. They're complementing each other. Parag also praised his seamers discipline in the Power-play. I'm blessed. I mean, for two bowlers to bowl 3-3 overs in the power play at this stage of the game, or how T20 cricket is evolving, it's just commendable. The wicket was helping a little more to the seamers in the first innings, but then in the second innings, we knew it would swing, but the lengths they bowled, the lines they bowled, and the way we feel it, impressive. Reflecting on his own form, Parag acknowledged the support from teammates and promised that a big knock from his bat will come soon. Everyone has been very supportive. I've been going through a phase as well. Right before the IPL, I had gone through something, and then even now I'm going through something, and everyone understands that. Parag also praised his seamers discipline in the Power-play. I'm blessed. I mean, for two bowlers to bowl 3-3 overs in the power play at this stage of the game, or how T20 cricket is evolving, it's just commendable. The wicket was helping a little more to the seamers in the first innings, but then in the second innings, we knew it would swing, but the lengths they bowled, the lines they bowled, and the way we feel it, impressive. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It's not me not scoring runs and taking my time getting 40 or 30. That's not going to happen. I go out there, assess conditions. If they want me to go to 200 from ball one, I do that, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

3rd WT20I: Harmanpreet, Shafali Slam Fifties, Power India To 192/4 Against SA

Shafali Verma: Explosive half-centuries from Shafali Verma and captain Harmanpreet Kaur propelled India to a mammoth 192/4, their highest-ever womens T20I total against South Africa, in the third T20I at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Wednesday. In a clinical display of power-hitting, Indias batting unit finally found its rhythm to post a daunting target in what is a must-win clash for them to keep the series alive. Shafali laid the foundation with a brisk 64 off 46 balls, laced with eight fours and two sixes, while Harmanpreet provided the late-innings fireworks with a blistering 66 off 38 deliveries, studded with seven fours and three sixes. Indias intent was clear from the first ball. Smriti Mandhana (37 off 25 balls) got the scoreboard ticking immediately with two boundaries off Ayanda Hlubi. Shafali Verma joined the act in the second over, carving Annerie Dercksen for consecutive boundaries. The pair utilised the fielding restrictions effectively, with Mandhana launching Tumi Sekhukhune for a massive six over backward square leg in the sixth over. By the end of the Powerplay, India had raced to 51/0, establishing a perfect platform for a big total. The introduction of left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba (2-31) briefly stalled Indias momentum. In a dramatic ninth over, Nonkululeko struck twice in two balls Smriti holed out to deep mid-wicket, while Jemimah Rodrigues top-edged a sweep to short fine leg and fell for a golden duck. At 68/2, the onus fell on Harmanpreet and Shafali to steady the ship. Harmanpreet survived an early scare when she was dropped at backward point, a mistake that would prove costly for the Proteas. After India crossed the 100-run mark in the 12th over, Shafali brought up her 16th T20I fifty in style in the 13th over with a thumping drive off Nonkululeko. The duo shifted gears in the 14th over by looting 16 runs off Tumi Sekhukhune. But their stand eventually ended at 73 runs when Nadine de Klerk dismissed Shafali, who pulled a short delivery straight to deep square leg. However, the dismissal brought Richa Ghosh (18 not out off 10 balls) to the crease, who immediately ramped up the scoring with a towering six over mid-wicket. Harmanpreet, meanwhile, reached her 16th T20I fifty in the 18th over off 33 balls with a straight drive for four off Nadine. The final over from Tumi was particularly expensive, yielding 16 runs, as Harmanpreet smoked two massive sixes - one over deep mid-wicket and another over deep square leg. But she was run out on the final ball of the innings while attempting a risky second run. By then, India crossed the 190-mark, thanks to a blistering stand of 51 off 26 balls between her and Richa. Harmanpreet, meanwhile, reached her 16th T20I fifty in the 18th over off 33 balls with a straight drive for four off Nadine. The final over from Tumi was particularly expensive, yielding 16 runs, as Harmanpreet smoked two massive sixes - one over deep mid-wicket and another over deep square leg. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 192/4 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 66, Shafali Verma 64; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-31, Nadine de Klerk 1-27) against South Africa Article Source: IANS

Jadeja, Archer and Burger lead Royals to scrappy win against LSG

RR broke a run of two defeats to climb to second place in the points table; LSG were down at ninth

IPL 2026: Terrific Archer Picks 3-20 As RR Defend 159, Beat Listless LSG By 40 Runs

Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: A terrific Jofra Archer picked 3-20 as Rajasthan Royals' bowlers produced a masterclass in successfully defending a modest total to defeat Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) by 40 runs in their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 encounter at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Wednesday. Defending 159, the lowest score defended in this season, RRs bowlers were right on the money from the word go, and backed by some superb fielding, they consigned LSG to their fourth consecutive loss of the season. Archer found support in Nandre Burger and Brijesh Sharma, who picked two scalps each, while Ravindra Jadeja and Ravi Bishnoi had one wicket each as LSG were bowled out for just 119 in 18 overs, as RR have made a move to second place in the points table. LSGs chase began chaotically - on the final ball of the opening over, Ayush Badoni was run out for a duck following a massive mix-up. Captain Rishabh Pants inconsistent run continued when he fell for a three-ball duck in the second over, top-edging off Burger to the keeper Dhruv Jurel. With head coach Justin Langer going to the dressing room from the dugout, the nightmare deepened for LSG when Archer returned to remove Aiden Markram for a duck with a steep bouncer, leaving them reeling at 16/3. By the end of the Powerplay, despite a six from Marsh, LSG were gasping at 31/3. Mitchell Marsh fought a lonely battle, reaching a 39-ball fifty, but found no support. Nicholas Pooran (22) holed out to long-on off Ravindra Jadeja, as the middle-order crumbled under the pressure of a rising required run rate. Ravi Bishnoi entered the fray to clean up Himmat Singh (15) with a quicker delivery, before Burger returned in the 16th over to claim the big scalp of Marsh, who made 55 off 42 balls laced with six fours and two sixes. Brijesh effectively ended the contest in the 17th over by removing Mukul Choudhary and Mohammed Shami in quick succession. Archer then returned to apply the finishing touches - a spectacular catch from Jurel led to the dismissal of Mayank Yadav before he flattened Mohsin Khans middle stump with a pacy delivery to end LSGs misery and give RR their first away win of the ongoing season. Ravi Bishnoi entered the fray to clean up Himmat Singh (15) with a quicker delivery, before Burger returned in the 16th over to claim the big scalp of Marsh, who made 55 off 42 balls laced with six fours and two sixes. Brijesh effectively ended the contest in the 17th over by removing Mukul Choudhary and Mohammed Shami in quick succession. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals 159/6 in 20 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 43 not out, Yashasvi Jaiswal 22; Mohsin Khan 2-17, Prince Yadav 2-29) beat Lucknow Super Giants 119 in 18 overs (Mitchell Marsh 55, Nicholas Pooran 22; Jofra Archer 3-20, Brijesh Sharma 2-18) by 40 runs Article Source: IANS

MCA Names Shardul Thakur, Siddhesh Lad As Cricketers Of The Year; Ayush Mhatre, SKY, Dube Feted

Late Shri Shantibai Seth Trophy: Siddhesh Lad and Shardul Thakur were conferred the Justice Tendolkar Trophy for the Best Senior Cricketer for the 2025/26 and 2024/25 seasons, respectively, as the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA) hosted a grand awards evening in Mumbai on Wednesday. The evening celebrated excellence across the 2024/25 and 2025/26 seasons, with the MCA honouring the outstanding performers who continue to shape Mumbais rich cricketing legacy while inspiring the next generation of champions. The evening was attended by former India cricketers Sunil Gavaskar, Dilip Vengsarkar, Rajeev Kulkarni, and Diana Edulji, Honble Cabinet Ministers Ashish Shelar and Aditi Tatkare, along with MCA President Ajinkya Naik. The presence of MCA Apex Council Members, office-bearers, and players further underscored the collective strength and legacy of the Mumbai cricket ecosystem. The evening spotlighted outstanding performances at the senior level, with Siddhesh Lad and Shardul Thakur being conferred the Justice Tendolkar Trophy for the Best Senior Cricketer for the 2025/26 and 2024/25 seasons, respectively, recognising their impactful contributions. In a proud recognition of Mumbais contribution to Indian cricket, the MCA felicitated Ayush Mhatre, who led the Under-19 Mens World Cup-winning team, along with other city-based players and coaches who were part of Indias recent World Cup triumphs. This included captain Suryakumar Yadav alongside Shivam Dube from the Mens T20 World Cup-winning side; Sanika Chalke from the Under-19 Womens World Cup-winning squad; Abhigyan Kundu from the Under-19 Mens World Cup-winning team; and Jemimah Rodrigues, Amol Muzumdar, and Aavishkar Salvi from the Womens World Cup-winning contingent, reflecting Mumbais continued contribution to national success. Mumbais dominance across domestic cricket in the 202425 season was further reinforced as MCA felicitated its champion teams that clinched major titles, including the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Senior Womens T20 Trophy, Under-14 West Zone Championship, Under-23 Womens One-Day Trophy, Vijay Merchant Trophy (Under-16), and the Womens Under-15 One-Day Trophy, underlining the associations sustained excellence across age groups and formats. The MCA continued its commitment to nurturing future talent through the Sharad Pawar Scholarships. The 2024/25 recipients included Naman Pushpak, Neeraj Dhumal, Shaurya Rai, Sanmaya Upadhyay, Ira Jadhav, and Yayati Gawad, while the 2025/26 scholarships were awarded to Shreyas Khilare, Rajveer Lad, Vedant Gore, Vansh Chumble, Siddhi Kamte, Ritika Yadav, Unnati Patil, and Mudra Khedekar. The ceremony also honoured stalwarts of the game with Lifetime Achievement Awards. Shobha Pandit (Cricketer) and Shrikant Tigdi (Administrator) were recognised for 2025/26, while Chandrakant Patankar (Cricketer) and Ravindra Savant (Administrator) were honoured for 2024/25, celebrating decades of contribution to Mumbai cricket. Reflecting on the significance of the evening, MCA President Ajinkya Naik said, This evening stands as a powerful testament to the standards Mumbai cricket sets for itself, uncompromising excellence, built on legacy and driven by relentless ambition. These achievements are not just milestones, but benchmarks for the future. Our focus remains clear: to strengthen this ecosystem, elevate performance, and ensure the next generation carries this legacy forward at an even greater scale. I would also like to thank our distinguished guests for being part of this special evening, and congratulate all the awardees who continue to uphold the highest standards of Mumbai cricket. The MCA Awards stood as a celebration of achievement, legacy, and aspiration, bringing together the pillars of Mumbai cricket under one roof. Complete list of awardees and recognitions: For 2024/25 Season: Special Prize for the Best Junior Cricketer (Womens) 2024-25: Ira Jadhav Late Shri S.S. Rangnekar Award For the Best Junior Cricketer (Under-14) 2024-25: Shane Raza Late Kumar M.V.Dabhir Award For the Best Junior Cricketer (Under-16) 2024-25: Advait Bhat Special Prize for the Best Junior Cricketer (Under-16) for Outstanding Performance 2024-25: Tanish Shetty Late Shri B.Banerjee Award For the Best Fast Bowler (Under-19) 2024-25: Hrishikesh Gore Late Shri L.P.Jai Award For the Best Junior Cricketer (Under-19) 2024-25: Naman Pushpak Late Shri Shantibai Seth Trophy For the Best Junior Cricketer 2024-25: Abhigyan Kundu Special Prize for the Best Senior Cricketer (Womens) 2024-25: Vrushali Bhagat Special Prize for Outstanding Performance Mens U-23 2024-25: Ayush Vartak Late Shri Shavak Paghdiwala Trophy For taking the Highest Number of Wickets In Ranji Trophy (2024-25 & 2025-26) and Special Prize for Fastest Century in Ranji Trophy 2024-25: Shams Mulani Late Shri S. V. Rajadyaksha Trophy For scoring the Highest Number of Runs In Ranji Trophy (2024-25 & 2025-26) and Justice Tendolkar Trophy for the Best Senior Cricketer (2025-26): Siddhesh Lad Sharad Pawar Scholarship 2024-25: Naman Pushpak, Neeraj Dhumal, Shaurya Rai, Sanmaya Upadhyay, Ira Jadhav, and Yayati Gawad For valuable contribution towards the upgradation of the maidan facilities: Dipesh Nirupan Best Senior tournament organisers 2024-25: Purshottam Shield Best Junior tournament organisers 2024-25: Shamrao Thosar Shield Best performing team in local tournaments 2024-25 (Kanga League 2nd Position, President cup Winner, Women's League B Div 2nd Position, Bhama Cup Winner, and Young Comrade Semi Finalist): MIG CC Special Award to the club that provided their ground for the maximum MCA matches 2024-25: LIC Cricket Club, Cross Maidan Glory of Maidan Award 2024-25: Daya Dudhwadkar Lifetime Achievement Award 2024-25 Cricketer: Chandrakant Patankar Lifetime Achievement Award 2024-25 Administrator: Ravindra Savant Dattu Phadkar Award for the Best Ranji Trophy Cricketer of the Year (2024-25) and Justice Tendolkar Trophy for the Best Senior Cricketer of the Year (2024-25): Shardul Thakur Winners 2024-25: Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, Sr. Women's T20 Trophy, Under 14 West Zone Championship, Under 23 Women One Days, Vijay Merchant Trophy Under 16, Under 15 Girls One-days For 2025/26 Season: Special Prize for the Best Junior Cricketer (Womens) 2025-26: Sanmaya Upadhyay Late Shri S.S.Rangnekar Award For the Best Junior Cricketer (Under-14) 2025-26: Shreyas Khilare Late Kumar M.V.Dabhir Award For the Best Junior Cricketer (Under-16) 2025-26: Ayush Shete Special Prize for the Best Junior Cricketer (Under-16) 2025-26 and Late Shri Shantibai Seth Trophy For the Best Junior Cricketer 2025-26: Karthik Kumar Late Shri B.Banerjee Award For the Best Fast Bowler (Under-19) 2025-26: Vedant Bane and Sarthak Bhide Late Shri L.P.Jai Award For the Best Junior Cricketer (Under-19) 2025-26: Harsh Aghav Special Prize for the Best Senior Cricketer (Womens) 2025-26: Sayali Satghare Special Prize for Outstanding Performance Mens U-23 2025-26: Suryansh Shedge Special Prize for Fastest Century in Ranji Trophy 2025-26: Akash Anand Sharad Pawar Scholarship 2025-26: Shreyas Khilare, Rajveer Lad, Vedant Gore, Vansh Chumble, Siddhi Kamte, Ritika Yadav, Unnati Patil, and Mudra Khedekar Best Senior tournament organisers 2025-26: Police Invitational Shield Best Junior tournament organisers 2025-26: U-14 Late Ajit Naik Cricket Tournament Best performing team in local tournaments 2025-26 (Padmakar Talim Shield Winner, Young Comrade Winner, Women's League C Div Winner, President Cup Women's C & D Div Winner): Dr D Y Patil Sports Academy Special Award to the club that provided their ground for the maximum MCA matches 2025-26: Western Railway Cross Maidan Special Award for Contribution to Women's Cricket: Surekha Bhandare Glory of Maidan Award 2025-26: A. R. Kamath Lifetime Achievement Award 2025-26 Cricketer: Shobha Pandit Lifetime Achievement Award 2025-26 Administrator: Shrikant Tigdi Under-19 Women's World Cup Winner: Sanika Chalke Under-19 World Cup Winners: Ayush Mhatre and Abhigyan Kundu Women's World Cup Winners: Jemimah Rodrigues, Amol Muzumdar, and Aavishkar Salvi Under-19 World Cup Winners: Ayush Mhatre and Abhigyan Kundu Also Read: Live Cricket Score Hattrick of BCCI Best Association Award: Mumbai Cricket Association Article Source: IANS

South Africa bowl first in pursuit of T20I series win against India

South Africa made two changes to their team, while India made three

MI, CSK to take decision on Rohit and Dhoni on matchday

Both batted in the nets on Wednesday, suggesting their return from injury may be imminent

IPL 2026: Hitting The Right Length On Red Soil Is Crucial, Says LSG's Prince Yadav

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants pacer Prince Yadav, the current holder of the Purple Cap in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, said hitting the right lengths on a red-soil pitch has been crucial to his good performance against the Rajasthan Royals. Yadav, along with Mohammed Shami and Mohsin Khan, picked two wickets each to keep RR to 159/6. He now has 13 wickets in seven games at an average of 16.76 and an economy rate of 8.38. It feels really good, but it will feel even better if we go on to win the match from here. Nothing different as such. Im just doing what I know best. Im sticking to my line and length, backing my strengths, and working with the two or three variations that Ive added. Absolutely, because if we bowl even slightly short, it becomes easy for batters to hit boundaries. So on red soil, hitting the right length is very important, Yadav said in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. In the match, Prince ensured there was no middle-order recovery for RR as he dismissed skipper Riyan Parag, who holed out to long-on. He later removed Donovan Ferreira by having him caught at third man to leave RR reeling at 110/6. Absolutely, because if we bowl even slightly short, it becomes easy for batters to hit boundaries. So on red soil, hitting the right length is very important, Yadav said in a mid-innings chat with the broadcasters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Whenever I feel a bit under pressure or troubled, Shami bhai comes straight to me, explains things, and always gives me confidence. Its just practice, and also a lot of credit goes to our coach. Hes a very good coach. We have practised a lot, and Bharat Arun Sir has also helped us a lot, he added. Article Source: IANS

3rd WT20I: Bharti, Kashvee Come In For India As South Africa Elect To Bowl First

Bharti Fulmali: India have brought in Bharti Fulmali and Kashvee Gautam as South Africa won the toss and elected to bowl first in the third womens T20I at the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg on Wednesday. India find themselves under pressure as they are 2-0 behind in the five-match series. Wednesdays game is a must-win contest for India if they are to keep the series alive. The toss was delayed by 45 minutes due to rain and lightning around the stadium area, but theres no deduction in overs. India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur said Bharti and Kashvee come in the playing eleven in place of Sree Charani and Anushka Sharma. Bharti last played T20Is for India in the 2019 series against England in Guwahati. Definitely would have bowled first, looking at the conditions. But I think when we came here, we were talking about putting ourselves into hard conditions, and I think thats a great challenge for us to bat, and hopefully we also bat well. I think doing our basics right. I think the last two games we didnt do that. I think just doing the small, small things right always gives a result. I think other than that, we are not putting any pressure on ourselves. I know its an important game, but at the same time, we just want to enjoy ourselves on the field, she said. South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt said Annerie Dercksen and Anneke Bosch are missing out, with Kayla Reyneke and Ayanda Hlubi coming into the playing eleven. Obviously, weve had a bit of rain around. Weve been under covers for a few days, so wed just like to have a bowl first. Weve had two great games, but I know India is a high-quality side, so theyre definitely going to bring their best game today. So we will have to tick all our boxes once again. Theres always going to be things to improve. I think weve been good in phases and weve got the wins, but we're still searching for sort of that perfect game. I think our fieldings been good, but not 100 percent clean. There are always things to nitpick, I guess, before a World Cup, so just consistency is what were searching for, she said. Playing XIs: So we will have to tick all our boxes once again. Theres always going to be things to improve. I think weve been good in phases and weve got the wins, but we're still searching for sort of that perfect game. I think our fieldings been good, but not 100 percent clean. There are always things to nitpick, I guess, before a World Cup, so just consistency is what were searching for, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (captain), Sune Luus, Tazmin Brits, Annerie Dercksen, Kayla Reyneke, Chloe Tryon, Nadine de Klerk, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Ayanda Hlubi, Tumi Sekhukhune, and Nonkululeko Mlaba Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Mohsin, Prince, Shami Pick Two Scalps Each As LSG Restrict RR To 159/6

Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: A clinical collective performance from Mohsin Khan, Prince Yadav, and Mohammed Shami helped Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) restrict the Rajasthan Royals (RR) to a modest 159/6 in their clash in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on Wednesday. While Ravindra Jadejas late-innings assault (43 not out off 29) provided a much-needed back-end surge for RR, the story of the first innings was the tactical dominance of the LSG seamers, who dismantled the top order with high-velocity aggression and Opting to bowl first, LSG didnt have the best of starts as Yashasvi Jaiswal and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi hit six boundaries between themselves in the first three overs. But RRs explosive start was derailed in the third over when Shami struck twice in two balls. He bowled a sharp bouncer to remove Jaiswal, who tried to hook, and an airborne Rishabh Pant leapt to grab the catch with an outstretched right hand. One brought two for Shami as he got one to nip away and take Dhruv Jurels outside edge, as Pant dived to his right to dismiss him for a duck. The pressure intensified as Mohsin nailed his lengths and became the first bowler in IPL history to bowl a maiden over to teenage sensation Sooryavanshi, as he eventually forced him into mistiming a loft to cover, while having Shimron Hetmyer to give a leading edge to mid-off. Prince then ensured there was no middle-order recovery as he dismissed Riyan Parag, who holed out to long-on, and later removed Donovan Ferreira by having him caught at third man to leave RR reeling at 110/6. RR were staring at a sub-par total before Jadeja took charge. Biding his time initially, Jadeja exploded in the final over by picking 20 runs off Mayank Yadav (0-56), bowling in his first game of the season. Supported by impact player Shubham Dubeys 11-ball 19 not out, Jadeja lent some respectability to the total and, in turn, gave the RR bowlers a fighting chance in the match. Prince then ensured there was no middle-order recovery as he dismissed Riyan Parag, who holed out to long-on, and later removed Donovan Ferreira by having him caught at third man to leave RR reeling at 110/6. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rajasthan Royals 159/6 in 20 overs (Ravindra Jadeja 43 not out, Yashasvi Jaiswal 22; Mohsin Khan 2-17, Prince Yadav 2-29) against Lucknow Super Giants Article Source: IANS

All eyes on Dhoni and Rohit as IPL's defining rivalry returns

It's CSK vs MI again, but both teams have been far from their best in recent years and find themselves at a crossroads

Mohsin Khan bowls first ever maiden to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and dismisses him

The Rajasthan Royals opener was dismissed for 8 off 11 balls in Lucknow

IPL 2026: LSG Atmosphere Positive Despite Losses, Motivated To Bounce Back, Says Mohsin Khan

Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) left-arm pacer Mohsin Khan insisted the team remains upbeat despite recent setbacks in IPL 2026, adding that the dressing room continues to be filled with motivation and belief ahead of their clash against Rajasthan Royals. LSG, led by India wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant, come into this clash at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium after having lost their last three matches. Interestingly, LSG are yet to win a game at home this season. The team atmosphere is a little affected because of the losses, so it does not feel great, but overall it is very good. It is not like just because we are losing, everything has gone upside down. The atmosphere is very positive, everyone is motivating each other, and building confidence about how to go out there and win. Preparations are going on well, Mohsin said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. He also confirmed being fit to play for the rest of the season after being unwell following the opening game against the Delhi Capitals, where he picked 1-19. Mohsin did play in LSGs 54-run loss to Punjab Kings in New Chandigarh, and picked 1-43. The team atmosphere is a little affected because of the losses, so it does not feel great, but overall it is very good. It is not like just because we are losing, everything has gone upside down. The atmosphere is very positive, everyone is motivating each other, and building confidence about how to go out there and win. Preparations are going on well, Mohsin said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead to the challenge of facing RRs formidable batting line-up, Mohsin remained unfazed. It is normal. We will play the way we have always played, and we will try to get them out as quickly as possible. The team wants to win, and we are ready to play for the win, he said. Article Source: IANS

Bethell keen to cement No. 3 Test berth despite IPL downtime

Batter defends absence from County Championship, despite criticism from former pros including Alastair Cook

Kusal, Yousaf fifties take table-toppers Zalmi to seventh successive win

Ali Raza, who became the youngest Pakistan bowler to take a T20 hat-trick, helped restrict Kings to 182

Three Puducherry cricketers suspended on assault charges

The CAP said in a statement that a formal chargesheet has been filed against the players

IPL 2026: Things Are Going Right This Time, Will Try To Continue That, Says RRs Bishnoi

Lucknow Super Giants: Rajasthan Royals leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi said his improved performances this season is down to him fine-tuning aspects of his bowling, adding that hes grateful things are going in the right direction this time and aims to keep it going. Bishnoi spent three seasons with Lucknow Super Giants, before being acquired by RR at last years auction in Abu Dhabi. The India leg-spinner has picked 10 wickets in six games so far and is in the race to grab Purple Cap this year. It feels good. I have spent a lot of time here, so it feels good when you come back. It is a good feeling when you return and you know what has happened on this ground and what memories you have made here, Bishnoi said to broadcasters ahead of the match. On the reasons behind his better show this season, Bishnoi explained: The reason is the hard work I was putting in. I was working hard earlier too, but there were certain clues that I was missing. This season, I think those clues are fitting in properly. I still think there is room for improvement, but there were things like the run-up and length that I was missing. Touchwood, this time it is going right, so I will try to continue that in the upcoming games as well. Asked about plans against LSG batters, Bishnoi said, Everyone is a very good batter. You do know them, but whether they are scoring runs or not, it is just one ball away. People say a match can change with one ball, but I think form is also just one ball away. If you hit one good shot, everything changes. They are all very good players. If you look at Nicky, Rishabh bhai, Aiden, Marsh, there are big names. We just have to get everyone out. It is not like we will be happy after getting just one batter out, he said. Meanwhile, RRs young batter Lhuan-dre Pretorius backed the middle-order to deliver after a blip in the previous game. Obviously we had a very good start. We summed up as a batting unit that it was the easiest time to bat in the powerplay. We had a bit of a blip in the middle, but that's what it is. It's all part of the game. We forgot about that. We had our discussions around the middle. And yeah, I have no doubt that the middle-order will fire today, he said. He added that walking into strong platforms set by the openers was enjoyable. I think it's actually a good platform to walk into. Our openers always get off to a good start, so it's really cool to see and to watch. So as a middle order, I think it's pretty fun to walk into a scenario or situation like we most of the time walk into, he said. We had a bit of a blip in the middle, but that's what it is. It's all part of the game. We forgot about that. We had our discussions around the middle. And yeah, I have no doubt that the middle-order will fire today, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking about the pitch, Pretorius said, To be honest, I haven't had much discussion about the surface itself, but it's been very hot. Inside the stadium, there's a bit more wind and the temperature is a bit lower than outside. So, it's good. We're excited for the match. Article Source: IANS

Sachin Tendulkar Visits Dantewada To Support Grassroots Sports

Mann Deshi Foundation: Indian cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar visited Chhattisgarhs Dantewada district on Wednesday to support a grassroots sports programme aimed at turning the area, once affected by Maoist violence, into a lively sports hub. He expressed happiness about the development of playgrounds under the Maidan Cup programme. After landing at Jagdalpur airport, Tendulkar travelled to Chhindwar village. There, he participated in an event linked to the Maidan Cup initiative, which promotes sports among local children. I am very happy that we have created around 50 school playgrounds through the Maidan Cup initiative, Tendulkar told reporters at Jagdalpur airport. The initiative is backed by the Mann Deshi Foundation, the Sachin Tendulkar Foundation, and the local administration. It is already making a significant impact. A Maidan Cup competition currently happening in Dantewada is serving more than 5,000 children by giving them structured access to sports in a region once affected by conflict. It feels wonderful because our foundation and the Mann Deshi team are doing a great job here. I may play with the children at the sports event, which includes kabaddi, kho-kho, athletics, and volleyball, Tendulkar said. Launched in 2025, the Maidan Cup programme not only seeks to build sports infrastructure but also aims to change the region's identity. Officials noted that the first phase focused on developing 50 playgrounds in government schools, including high schools and higher secondary institutions, using low-cost models driven by community involvement. Each playground was built for under Rs 4 lakh using locally sourced materials. Facilities for 13 sports disciplines have been added, including running tracks, shot put, javelin throw, discus throw, long jump, and wall climbing, creating a broad sports base for young participants. Launched in 2025, the Maidan Cup programme not only seeks to build sports infrastructure but also aims to change the region's identity. Officials noted that the first phase focused on developing 50 playgrounds in government schools, including high schools and higher secondary institutions, using low-cost models driven by community involvement. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This visit follows the declaration that Chhattisgarh is free from Left-Wing Extremism as of March 31 this year, marking a symbolic shift towards development and opportunity, with sports serving as a powerful tool for change. Article Source: IANS

Mayank Yadav returns as LSG choose to bowl against RR

LSG have lost their previous three games, while RR have lost their last two

IDCA Unveils New Jersey For Upcoming ODI And T20I Series Against SA

South Africa Deaf Cricket Series: The Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA) on Wednesday unveiled the new Team India jersey for the upcoming two ODIs and three T20I matches during the upcoming India vs South Africa Deaf Cricket Series 2026, set to take place at Sinoville Cricket Club, Pretoria, South Africa, from April 25 to May 2. The unveiling ceremony was conducted in the presence of IDCA Support Partners, IDCA board members, and the Indian Deaf Cricket Team participating in this prestigious tournament. Roma Balwani, CEO, IDCA, said, The 2 ODI & 3-T20I Deaf Cricket Series is an excellent platform to promote sports among specially abled athletes. Our team is elated to represent India. We are all set for the championship and look forward to our players proving their mettle on the pitch. We extend heartfelt gratitude to the sponsors, support partners, corporates, and CSR teams for their unwavering faith and support. Their encouragement motivates our players to give their best. Sumit Jain, president, IDCA, said, Our players are well-prepared and excited for the championship. They are ready to showcase their skills and compete for the prestigious title. I wish them the very best for the series. We could not have held this championship without the continuous support of our principal partner, Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla, Chairman of Serum Institute of India, who helps us every day in celebrating Deaf Cricket. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank KFC India, Hero (We Care A Hero MotoCorp CSR Initiative), Steel Authority of India Limited, Kaizzen, Impact Research & Measurement Pvt. Ltd., Shiv Naresh Sports Pvt. Ltd., and RB Foundation for being our support partners. Your support has been instrumental in making this championship a grand success. The association also expressed gratitude to Jay Shah, chairman of the ICC and BCCI, for supporting disability cricket initiatives. Squad: India Deaf Team: - Virender Singh - Captain (Delhi), Sai Akash (Tamil Nadu) Vice Captain, Hilal Wani (Jammu & Kashmir), R Yashwanth Naidu (Andhra Pradesh), Santosh Kumar Mohapatra (Odisha), Umar Ashraf (Jammu & Kashmir) Wicketkeeper, Sanith Shetty (Karnataka), Sudarsun E (Tamil Nadu), Pranil More (Mumbai), Kuldeep Singh (Haryana), Vivek Kumar (Haryana), Aman Chouksey (Madhya Pradesh), Sibun Nanda (Odisha), Deepak Lamba (Haryana) Wicketkeeper. Support Staff: - Dev Dutt Head Coach, Susheel Gupta Coach, Ravikant Bhatt - Coach (Batting), Gauri Shankar Garg - Manager & Sharad Mudgal Interpreter (ISL). Tour Schedule India vs South Africa Deaf Series 1. 25-04-2026 Net Practice & Training Pretoria, South Africa 1:00 PM 2. 26-04-2026 1st ODI Pretoria, South Africa 1:00 PM 3. 28-04-2026 2nd ODI Pretoria, South Africa 1:00 PM 4. 30-04-2026 1st T20I Pretoria, South Africa 2:30 PM 3. 28-04-2026 2nd ODI Pretoria, South Africa 1:00 PM Also Read: Live Cricket Score 6. 02-05-2026 3rd T20I Pretoria, South Africa 2:30 PM Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: Connolly Goes Home For Scans On Back, Expected To Return For PBKS Clash Against DC

Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings (PBKS) batting all-rounder Cooper Connolly has returned home for scans on his back, but is expected to rejoin the squad in time for their upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 clash against Delhi Capitals, to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Saturday afternoon. Connollys Instagram story, which showed him in Perth, triggered speculation that he had flown home for the scans, though he did not explain his return on the widely used social media platform. Cricket Australia (CA) previously instructed Connolly to play only as a specialist batter till the end of April. Yes, Connolly has gone back to Australia for a scan on his back. Its similar to what Pat Cummins did earlier. Connolly is likely to rejoin the PBKS squad, who have arrived in New Delhi this afternoon, by tomorrow night. The scan reports run by CA will give the franchise a clearer picture of whether he can bowl in the rest of their IPL campaign, said a source tracking the development to IANS on Wednesday. Connolly entered IPL 2026 with a back injury, which has prevented PBKS from using his services as a left-arm spinner. Despite that, Connolly, 22, has still made a huge impact for PBKS as a specialist batter amassing 223 runs in six matches. Yes, Connolly has gone back to Australia for a scan on his back. Its similar to what Pat Cummins did earlier. Connolly is likely to rejoin the PBKS squad, who have arrived in New Delhi this afternoon, by tomorrow night. The scan reports run by CA will give the franchise a clearer picture of whether he can bowl in the rest of their IPL campaign, said a source tracking the development to IANS on Wednesday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Connolly was roped in by PBKS for Rs three crore during the IPL 2026 mini-auction held in Abu Dhabi last year. PBKS, led by Shreyas Iyer, sit atop the IPL 2026 points table with 11 points from six matches and are the only unbeaten side in the competition. Article Source: IANS

Skipper Athapaththu's All-round Show Help Sri Lanka-W Level Series Against Bangladesh

Skipper Chamari Athapaththu: Chamari Athapaththu produced a commanding all-round performance to help Sri Lanka level the ODI series against Bangladesh women's in Rajshahi, as the visitors secured a four-wicket win by chasing down 165 in 45.5 overs. Playing her first game of the series after missing the opener due to a finger injury, Athapaththu made an immediate impact with the ball, claiming three crucial wickets to derail Bangladeshs innings. She struck first in the 16th over, trapping Sharmin Sultana lbw, a decision the batter appeared unhappy with. In her very next over, Athapaththu dismissed Sobhana Mostary, who was caught at square leg. Her third wicket came in the 31st over when Ritu Moni miscued a cover drive, only for Nilakshika Silva to complete a sharp catch at mid-off. Earlier, Bangladesh had suffered an early setback when Sharmin Akhter was dismissed for a duck by Malki Madara in the fifth over. Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana top-scored with 58 off 101 balls, including four boundaries, but lacked support from the rest of the batting line-up. Her resistance ended in the 41st over when Nimesha Meepage had her caught behind. Madara, Meepage, and Inoka Ranaweera picked up two wickets each, while Kavisha Dilhari chipped in with one as Bangladesh were bowled out for 165. In response, Athapaththu once again led from the front, dominating the chase with a brisk 40 off 39 balls, striking eight fours. Despite limited support from the top order, she set the tone before falling to Nahida Akhter in the 17th over. The dismissal sparked a moment of tension, with Nahida giving her a send-off and Athapaththu holding her gaze for several seconds before departing. The chase was steadied by a crucial 79-run stand for the fourth wicket between Harshitha Samarawickrama and Hansima Karunaratne. Samarawickrama struck 50 off 76 balls with seven fours, while Karunaratne contributed 40 off 64 balls, hitting six fours, as Sri Lanka moved within touching distance of the target of 166. Nahida continued to impress, removing both set batters and later dismissing Kaushini Nuthyangana to finish with a four-wicket haul. Sultana Khatun and Moni picked up one wicket each, but Sri Lanka held their nerve to complete the chase and draw level in the series. The decider of the three-match ODI series is set to be played in Rajshahi on April 25. Nahida continued to impress, removing both set batters and later dismissing Kaushini Nuthyangana to finish with a four-wicket haul. Sultana Khatun and Moni picked up one wicket each, but Sri Lanka held their nerve to complete the chase and draw level in the series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bangladesh Women 165 all out in 45.5 overs (Nigar Sultana 58, Sarmin Sultana 25; Chamari Athapaththu 3-36, Nimisha Meepage 2-29) lost to Sri Lanka Women 166/6 in 38.2 overs (Harshitha Samarawickrama 50, Chamari Athapaththu 40; Nahida Akter 4-21) by four wickets. Article Source: IANS

'He Is Not Doing Anything': Cook Wants Bethell To Leave IPL And Play County Cricket

Sir Alastair Cook: Former England great Sir Alastair Cook has advised youngster Jacob Bethell to consider leaving his franchise Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) in the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) and return to play county cricket with Warwickshire, stating that the left-hander is not doing anything and wasting his crucial preparation time at IPL. Bethell was in great touch in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026, where he scored a brilliant century in the semi final against India. The youngster achieved the milestone in just 45 balls and recorded the second-fastest T20 World Cup century ever. Despite World Cup heroics, Bethell is yet to play a single game in RCB as he is not getting any place in the playing XI, which has Phil Salt, Tim David, Romario Shepherd, and Josh Hazlewood as overseas player. Cook feels that Bethell's century against Australia in Sydney showed that he could be the answer to England's opening problems and He should prove his mantle as an opener to the selectors by opting for the role for Warwickshire in County Cricket rather than wasting his time sitting on the bench in IPL. For that top order batting, the way he played at Sydney, against that attack, in those conditionsIve looked at a player there, and Im certain this bloke can open. If he can bat three, he can open, Cook said on The Overlap and Betfairs Stick to Cricket podcast. Cook feels that Bethell's century against Australia in Sydney showed that he could be the answer to England's opening problems and He should prove his mantle as an opener to the selectors by opting for the role for Warwickshire in County Cricket rather than wasting his time sitting on the bench in IPL. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, England opener Ben Duckett pulled out of a contract with Delhi Capitals (DC) in IPL to play county cricket and focus on his test revival. Article Source: IANS

Paul Adams Credits Pollard For George Linde's Development As An All-rounder

Former South Africa: Former South Africa cricketer Paul Adams has credited Kieron Pollard for playing a decisive role in shaping George Lindes self-belief, revealing how the West Indies all-rounder took him under his wing during the formative years of his T20 career. Reflecting on Lindes journey from a quiet, uncertain youngster to a seasoned global T20 professional, Adamswho worked closely with him from his Western Cape Academy days through to the Cape Cobras setupsaid the signs were always there, even if confidence wasnt. From the outset, we all saw a resemblance to (former Proteas spinner) Claude Henderson, Adams told SA20. He was in the Academy with me, and when I got the Cobras' role, we wanted to play another spinner, but one who was always contributing with the bat. That sort of always kept him more in the team than his bowling, although his bowling has always been steady. He's a good package, especially in one-day and T20 cricket where he's sort of buttered his bread now. He was always someone that you felt suffered from (a lack of) self-confidence; he never quite backed himself, Adams recalls. He was very quiet and quite respectful, but he had to get to that competitive stage to get out of his shell. Once he could really get over that and start believing in his ability, it really switched his game up. The turning point arrived during the Cobras triumphant 2014/15 domestic T20 campaign, when Linde shared the dressing room with T20 heavyweights like Sunil Narine and Pollard. A big change in him came when we started giving him the T20 role, and he started playing with Pollard, Adams said. Polly took him under his wing as a 'finisher' down the order. Learning from those times batting with him played a big role in George getting belief in himself and learning how to win games whether with the bat, the ball, or in the field. Today, at 34, Linde stands as a complete all-rounder, having represented South Africa 43 times and built a reputation across global T20 leagues, including a recent Indian Premier League debut for Lucknow Super Giants. Adams stressed that Lindes rise has been anything but overnight. Hes not someone who just popped up, he said. He [toiled] around playing semi-pro cricket, three-day cricket, four-day cricket. I've always been a big George Linde fan, especially because of the 'package' he brings. Hes one of the sweetest strikers of the ball, and his fielding ability is massive. From what I saw back then, already when he had a great Ram Slam, it really showed his ability and hinted to us that this guy can play for South Africa. I've always been a big George Linde fan, especially because of the 'package' he brings. Hes one of the sweetest strikers of the ball, and his fielding ability is massive. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They feel that on those wickets, he can offer a lot of value as an all-round hitter who can also offer a bit of spin in games. I've seen him play in The Hundred and put in performances there. At the moment, George is travelling all over the world, popping in and out of tournaments, and he's probably really enjoying his cricket. It's been great actually, just seeing him grow and play the way he does, he added. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: The Innings He Played Showed His Talent, Very Impressive, Says Abhisheks Father, Raj Kumar Sharma

Raj Kumar Sharma: Following Sunrisers Hyderabads commanding victory over Delhi Capitals in the IPL 2026 clash, Abhishek Sharmas father Raj Kumar Sharma lauded both his sons performance and the teams all-round effort, highlighting the growing strength of the side under skipper Ishan Kishan. Abhishek, who scored an unbeaten 135 off 68 balls to power Hyderabad to a dominant victory, earned special praise from his father, who reflected on the impact of the knock and the teams overall display. The match that SunRisers Hyderabad won was a very good one. Many congratulations to all the people of Hyderabad. The way Hyderabad won today was amazing. The innings Abhishek played showed his talent. I hope he continues to play like this and keeps leading us to victory. Today's knock was very impressive; everyone enjoyed watching that batting. Hope the team continues to win like this. Their Bowling and overall combination have become very strong. The batting is also excellent. First of all, congratulations to Ishan Kishan, who was the captain. Heartiest congratulations to him and the management. All the players played a great match today, may they continue to win like this, Abhisheks father said on the teams win in a video shared by the franchise. Abhishek, who scored an unbeaten 135 off 68 balls to power Hyderabad to a dominant victory, earned special praise from his father, who reflected on the impact of the knock and the teams overall display. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chasing 243, Delhi showed fight through Nitish Rana (57) and Sameer Rizvi (41), but poor fielding and lack of control hurt their chances. Eshan Malinga (4-32) and Harsh Dubey (3-12) ensured SRH stayed ahead as the win marked their third straight victory, lifting them to third in the standings. Article Source: IANS

LPL 2026 from July 10 to August 5

The sixth edition will feature the recently renovated SSC in Colombo as an LPL venue for the first time

'Disappointed, But I'll Come Back Stronger': Mhatre After Being Ruled Out Of IPL 2026

U19 World Cup: India's U19 World Cup-winning captain and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) star Ayush Mhatre expressed disappointment after being ruled out of the ongoing Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 due to a hamstring injury. Mhatre penned down an emotional note for the CSK fans and also vowed to come back stronger after recovering. Disappointed to not be able to contribute to @chennaiipl anymore in IPL 2026, but promise to come back stronger, Mhatre wrote in an Instagram caption while sharing photos of ongoing season with CSK. The youngster also extended his best wishes to the Chennai-based franchise for the remainder of the tournament, backing the team to perform well despite his absence. Wishing the team all the best for the rest of the season. Thanks for all the yellove and support, he added. CSK confirmed on Tuesday that Mhatre had been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after sustaining a hamstring injury during the team's recent match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The franchise said that the top-order batter will require six to 12 weeks of rehab. Ayush Mhatre has been ruled out of the remainder of IPL 2026 due to a left hamstring injury sustained while batting during the match against Sunrisers Hyderabad on April 18. Ayush's injury will require a rehabilitation period of 6-12 weeks. We wish Ayush a speedy recovery, CSK said in a statement. CSK confirmed on Tuesday that Mhatre had been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament after sustaining a hamstring injury during the team's recent match against Sunrisers Hyderabad. The franchise said that the top-order batter will require six to 12 weeks of rehab. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CSK suffered a 10-run loss to SRH and moved down to seventh spot in the points table with four points in six matches. They will next face the Mumbai Indians (MI) on Thursday. Article Source: IANS

All-round Athapaththu helps SL level series against Bangladesh

The SL captain took 3 for 36 with the ball, and scored 40 off 39 deliveries in the 166 chase

Lanka Premier League 2026 To Be Held From July 10 To Aug 5

Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium: Sri Lanka Cricket (SLC) has announced on Wednesday that the 2026 edition of the Lanka Premier League (LPL) will be held from July 10 to August 5. SLC said that the online portal for foreign player registration will open on May 4. The sixth edition of LPL was originally scheduled to be held in December 2025, but due to the 2026 ICC Mens T20 World Cup, which Sri Lanka will co-host with India in FebruaryMarch, SLC postponed the league. The postponement was made considering the broader requirement of preparing the Host Venues well in advance for the T20 World Cup 2026. The league, comprising 24 matches, including 20 league games and four knockout fixtures, will be played across four venues: Sinhalese Sports Club in Colombo, R. Premadasa International Cricket Stadium in Colombo, Pallekele International Cricket Stadium in Kandy, and Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium in Dambulla. Five franchises would compete against each other twice during the league phase, following which the top four teams would move to the playoffs. The tournament format involves all five franchises facing each other twice during the league phase. After the round-robin stage, the top four teams will advance to the playoffs. The first playoff match, Qualifier 1, will be played between the top two teams, with the winner securing a direct spot in the final. Five franchises would compete against each other twice during the league phase, following which the top four teams would move to the playoffs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Launched in 2020, the LPL has grown into a major domestic T20 tournament with an international presence. Samantha Dodanwela, an executive committee member of Sri Lanka Cricket, will continue in his role as tournament director. Article Source: IANS

Harry Moore, Under-19 seamer, ruled out for second season by back injury

Promising fast bowler suffers recurrence of stress injury, having missed entirety of 2025 season

One Year Since.: BCCI Prez Manhas Remembers Pahalgam Terror Attack Victims

May Lord Shiva: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) president Mithun Manhas on Wednesday remembered the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack, marking one year since the deadly attack, and wished the Almighty would provide strength to those 'still battling the loss of their family'. One year since the horrific terrorist attack on Hindus at Pahalgam. May Lord Shiva give strength to those who are still battling the loss of their loved ones !! #Neverforget #PahalgamAttack, he wrote on X. The Pahalgam terror attack occurred on April 22, 2025, when 26 people were killed in a brutal massacre targeting tourists. The attack was carried out by The Resistance Front, an offshoot of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba. The attackers singled out victims after asking about their religion, forcing them to recite the Islamic kalima to identify non-Muslims. Among those killed were 25 tourists and one local pony-ride operator who tried to save them. Among the victims were several newly-married couples, and many were shot at close range in front of their families. In response to the attack, Indian armed forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 6 and 7, carrying out what officials described as a focused, measured and non-escalatory military action targeting high-value terror bases in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied-Kashmir. Following the operation, Pakistan responded with drone activity and shelling over the next week, targeting civilian and religious sites and schools. India subsequently carried out retaliatory strikes, including on radar installations in Lahore and facilities near Gujranwala. After sustaining significant damage, Pakistans Director General of Military Operations reached out to his Indian counterpart, urging a stop to military action. This led to a ceasefire understanding between the two sides on May 10, 2025. Following the operation, Pakistan responded with drone activity and shelling over the next week, targeting civilian and religious sites and schools. India subsequently carried out retaliatory strikes, including on radar installations in Lahore and facilities near Gujranwala. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Operation Sindoor was a significant demonstration of Indias military and strategic capability, combining both military and non-military measures. The operation successfully neutralised terrorist threats, deterred further aggression and reinforced Indias zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism while maintaining strategic restraint. Article Source: IANS

Bangladesh, Namibia And Scotland Players Gain Big In T20I Rankings

ODI Player Rankings: Bangladeshs standout players featured prominently in the latest update to the ICC Mens ODI Player Rankings after their strong performance against New Zealand in Mirpur. The hosts' six-wicket victory in the second ODI not only tied the series but also led to notable individual improvements across formats. Opener Tanzid Hasan was one of the biggest movers, rising 14 spots to 40th in the ODI batter rankings after scoring a steady 76 in the chase. The bowling unit also saw benefits, with spinner Rishad Hossain climbing 10 places to joint 58th and fast bowler Nahid Rana jumping 32 spots to 64th after taking six wickets in the match. Left-arm seamer Shoriful Islam marked his return to ODI cricket by re-entering the rankings at 39th following consistent wicket-taking performances in the series. Even though he is not playing in the current matches, Daryl Mitchell kept his spot at the top of the ODI batter rankings, highlighting his reliability in the format. In T20Is, Scotlands series win over Namibia led to some significant ranking changes. Veteran opener George Munsey moved up seven spots to joint 21st after scoring a match-winning century in the final game. Contributions from Towhid Hridoy, who climbed five places to joint 26th, further emphasised the impact of important middle-order performances. Even though he is not playing in the current matches, Daryl Mitchell kept his spot at the top of the ODI batter rankings, highlighting his reliability in the format. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shafali Verma continued her steady rise in the ICC Womens T20I Rankings, climbing closer to the top five, while India captain Harmanpreet Kaur edged nearer to a return to the top 10 following the latest rankings update on Tuesday. Article Source: IANS

Nawaz under PCB investigation after positive test for recreational drug use

ESPNcricinfo has learned the positive result comes from testing during T20 World Cup earlier this year

Bangladesh Fined For Slow Over Rate In 2nd ODI Against New Zealand

Shere Bangla National Stadium: Bangladesh cricket team have been fined 10 per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate during the second mens ODI against New Zealand at Shere Bangla National Stadium. According to the ICC press release, as quoted by the Daily Star, match referee Andy Pycroft of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel imposed the sanction after determining that Mehidy Hasan Mirazs side fell two overs short of the required rate once time allowances were taken into consideration. As per Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct, which governs minimum over-rate offences, players are fined five per cent of their match fee for each over not completed within the stipulated time. The two-over shortfall resulted in the 10 per cent penalty. Mehidy admitted to the offence and accepted the sanction, meaning no formal hearing was necessary. The charge was brought forward by on-field umpires Richard Illingworth and Gazi Sohel, along with third umpire Nitin Menon and fourth umpire Masudur Rahman Mukul. Despite the penalty, Bangladesh delivered a strong on-field performance to secure a six-wicket victory at the Sher-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium. Opting to bat first, New Zealand struggled to build momentum and were bowled out for 198 in 48.4 overs. Opener Nick Kelly stood out with a determined 83 off 102 balls, while Muhammad Abbas added 19. Bangladeshs bowling effort was spearheaded by Nahid Rana, who claimed an impressive 5/32 in his 10 overs to earn Player of the Match honours. Support came from Shoriful Islam with two wickets, while Taskin Ahmed, Soumya Sarkar and Rishad Hossain chipped in with one each. In reply, Bangladesh comfortably chased down the 199-run target, finishing with six wickets in hand and 87 balls remaining. Early setbacks saw Saif Hassan and Sarkar dismissed cheaply, but a crucial 120-run stand between Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto steadied the innings. Tanzid led the scoring with a brisk 76 off 58 deliveries, while Shanto contributed a composed 50 before retiring hurt. Towhid Hridoy then guided the team home with an unbeaten 30. In reply, Bangladesh comfortably chased down the 199-run target, finishing with six wickets in hand and 87 balls remaining. Early setbacks saw Saif Hassan and Sarkar dismissed cheaply, but a crucial 120-run stand between Tanzid Hasan and Najmul Hossain Shanto steadied the innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The win helped Bangladesh level the three-match series 1-1, with the deciding game set to take place in Chattogram on Thursday. Article Source: IANS

'Team Is Performing Well': Harbhajan Backs Kishan To Remain SRH Captain Despite Cummins Return

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: Former Indian cricketer Harbhajan Singh has lauded the captaincy skills of Ishan Kishan and advised the Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) franchise to continue with the wicketkeeper batter as captain despite the return of Australian spearhead Pat Cummins. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) registered their third consecutive victory of the IPL 2026, overpowering Delhi Capitals (DC) by 47 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. Riding on a breathtaking, career-best century from Abhishek Sharma, the hosts posted 242 for 2. In response, a disciplined Sunrisers bowling attack, spearheaded by Eshan Malinga, restricted the DC to 195 for 9, securing a dominant win to go third in the standings. According to Harbhajan, the players have built a great coordination with Kishan, and if the franchise continues their support to the young leader that, then it will benefit the team as a whole. Ishan Kishan should continue as Sunrisers Hyderabad captain even if Pat Cummins returns. It is a debatable call, but if the team has backed a young leader, they should stick with him. Cummins helped Hyderabad reach the final in 2024, no doubt. But the side is doing well under Kishan's leadership. The bowlers and other players have built good coordination with him. Keeping Ishan as captain will benefit Sunrisers Hyderabad, Harbhajan told Jio Hotstar. Kishan was appointed the stand in captain of SRH ahead of the tournament, as their designated leader, Cummins, was expected to miss the starting matches due to a back injury. But the Australian all-rounder has been declared fit and is likely to feature in the team's next match against Rajasthan Royals (RR) on April 25. Ishan Kishan should continue as Sunrisers Hyderabad captain even if Pat Cummins returns. It is a debatable call, but if the team has backed a young leader, they should stick with him. Cummins helped Hyderabad reach the final in 2024, no doubt. But the side is doing well under Kishan's leadership. The bowlers and other players have built good coordination with him. Keeping Ishan as captain will benefit Sunrisers Hyderabad, Harbhajan told Jio Hotstar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With just one win in four matches, SRH made a strong comeback and registered a hat-trick of wins against Rajasthan Royals (RR), Chennai Super Kings (CSK), and Delhi Capitals (DC) to grab the third spot in the points table with three wins in seven matches. SRH also has a positive net run rate of +0.820. Article Source: IANS

IPL 2026: 'I Waited For The Right Matchups,' Says Abhishek After Blistering 135 Vs DC

Indian Premier League: No.1 T20I batter and Sunrisers Hyderabad's (SRH) promising opener Abhishek Sharma revealed his plan after playing a blistering knock of 135 runs against Delhi Capitals, saying that his approach was largely driven by matchups and built around patience and game awareness. SRH rode on a sensational unbeaten 135 from Abhishek Sharma to post a daunting 242/2, before producing a disciplined effort with the ball to seal their third consecutive win and climb to third on the points table. Weve been preparing for this for a long time. So, obviously, there was a little wicket today. I had to go to the last in one of the top three. So, that was the plan. And I think it was good. The total was good. I was talking to our batting coach, Frankie, for a long time. I talked to him. And I told him, Frankie, its been a while that I havent reached the second strategic timeout. So, I want to try that someday, Abhishek said in a video released by the Indian Premier League (IPL) on X. We were talking about it in practice yesterday. So, then we had a plan that well talk about the situation in the first strategic timeout. And when he came in, the plan was to keep playing as it was. And I personally felt that it was difficult to hit every ball here. So, you have to be waiting for your matchups. Thats what I was doing. And thats what I was waiting for. And it actually went well. So, that was the plan, he added. Weve been preparing for this for a long time. So, obviously, there was a little wicket today. I had to go to the last in one of the top three. So, that was the plan. And I think it was good. The total was good. I was talking to our batting coach, Frankie, for a long time. I talked to him. And I told him, Frankie, its been a while that I havent reached the second strategic timeout. So, I want to try that someday, Abhishek said in a video released by the Indian Premier League (IPL) on X. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Speaking about partnerships, Abhishek highlighted the importance of maintaining momentum with fellow batters. And whoever is batting with me, especially Hadi or Ishaan, I know how they hit. So, its just a simple plan. Whoever is on strike, if theres a boundary on the first two or three balls, then we try to make it a boundary. If its a long over in power play, then obviously, the ball comes under pressure. Article Source: IANS

'It Makes No Sense': Finch Slams Axar's Bowling Call Against SRH

Axar Patel: Former Australian captain Aaron Finch has criticised Axar Patel for bowling just two overs while allowing part-time Nitish Rana to complete his full quota during Delhi Capitals' (DC) clash against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH). With several left-handers in SRH's top order, Delhi opted to use Ranas off-spin. However, despite conceding 55 runs in his four overs, only his 27th bowling outing in IPL history, the move raised eyebrows. Meanwhile, frontline spinners Axar and Kuldeep Yadav bowled just two overs each. Finch was openly critical of the decision, saying, Weve been sitting there scratching our heads, havent we? Your two Indian premier spin bowlers, Axar Patel, the skipper, and Kuldeep Yadav, bowled four overs between them. A part-time offspinner in Nitish Rana has wheeled out four overs. To me, that makes no sense, he told ESPNcricinfo. He further questioned Axar's reluctance to bowl to left-handers, even after dismissing Travis Head, suggesting it reflects an issue with mindset. Finch was openly critical of the decision, saying, Weve been sitting there scratching our heads, havent we? Your two Indian premier spin bowlers, Axar Patel, the skipper, and Kuldeep Yadav, bowled four overs between them. A part-time offspinner in Nitish Rana has wheeled out four overs. To me, that makes no sense, he told ESPNcricinfo. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In the match, Sunrisers Hyderabad posted a massive 242 in their 20 overs with the help of a brilliant unbeaten century of Abhishek Sharma. Delhi Capitals fell short in the chase, managing 195 and losing the game by 47 runs. Article Source: IANS

Ishan Is Tactically Good As A Leader, Should Continue As SRH Captain: Bangar

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: Former India cricketer and coach Sanjay Bangar heaped praise on Ishan Kishan's captaincy, saying the wicketkeeper batter as a leader is tactically very good in terms of how he uses his bowlers and suggested that he should continue leading the side even when the regular skipper Pat Cummins comes back. Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) registered their third consecutive victory of the IPL 2026, overpowering Delhi Capitals (DC) by 47 runs at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium. Riding on a breathtaking, career-best century from Abhishek Sharma, the hosts posted 242 for 2. In response, a disciplined Sunrisers bowling attack, spearheaded by Eshan Malinga, restricted the DC to 195 for 9, securing a dominant win to go third in the standings. Ishan Kishan as a leader is tactically very good in terms of how he uses his bowlers. He understands which bowlers to use against which batters. It is a clear marker of how well he controls the game. He doesnt look clustered, is not hurried, and is taking the right calls on the field. The way he used his spinners against DC was impressive, Bangar said on JioStar. Riding on a breathtaking, career-best century from Abhishek Sharma, the hosts posted 242 for 2. In response, a disciplined Sunrisers bowling attack, spearheaded by Eshan Malinga, restricted the DC to 195 for 9, securing a dominant win to go third in the standings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score All in all, I believe that even if Pat Cummins comes back, Ishan Kishan should continue captaining SRH. More often than not, having an Indian captain brings consistency. You cannot be sure about how fit a bowler of Pat Cummins' caliber will stay throughout the rest of IPL 2026, considering the niggles hes been dealing with. Ishan continuing with the leadership duties gives a lot of continuity to the players. That would be the way to go for Hyderabad, he added. Article Source: IANS

Bowlers Become Clueless When Abhishek, Travis, Ishan & Klaasen Start Hitting: Aditya Tare

Former Mumbai Indians: Former Mumbai Indians batter Aditya Tare heaped praise on Sunrisers Hyderabads explosive batting unit and praised Abhishek Sharma, Travis Head, Ishan Kishan and Heinrich Klaasens firepower following the teams dominant showing in their recent outing against Delhi Capitals, where they bagged a 47-run win. SRHs formidable line-up once again delivered with authority, posting a massive total, riding on Abhishek Sharmas unbeaten 135, before sealing a comfortable win, with Klaasen playing a crucial finishing role (37 not out off 13) late in the innings. Reflecting on the South Africans impact, Tare highlighted Klaasens consistency and adaptability across different phases of an innings. Heinrich Klaasen was brilliant again with the bat. He has been scoring 30-plus runs in most of the innings he has played this season. Yes, against DC, he didnt have many overs left to bat, but still, the impact he left by scoring 37 off 13 deliveries and remaining unbeaten till the end is pure class. Klaasen showed his versatility. If he comes into bat during the middle overs, he can bat through to the end of the innings. When he comes in at the death, he still has the quality and ability to take the game away from the opposition, Tare told JioStar. Klaasens late surge provided the finishing touch to an innings that was built around a commanding century from Abhishek Sharma, further underlining the depth and balance in SRHs batting. Tare also pointed to the collective strength of the top order, naming key players who have consistently set the tone for the franchise this season. Klaasens late surge provided the finishing touch to an innings that was built around a commanding century from Abhishek Sharma, further underlining the depth and balance in SRHs batting. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With players like Travis Head and Ishan Kishan complementing Klaasens finishing prowess, Sunrisers Hyderabad have emerged as one of the most dangerous batting sides in the tournament. Article Source: IANS