Brendon Mccullum Stand Downs As England Test Cricket Coach
Brendon McCullum has left his role as England's Test head coach but will remain in charge of the national white-ball set-up, the England and Wales Cricket Board announced Sunday. England have lost seven of their last nine Tests under the former New Zealand captain. This includes a woeful 4-1 Ashes defeat in Australia in 2025/26 and last month's 2-1 loss at home to New Zealand, with both series overshadowed by allegations of a team drinking culture. I've absolutely loved coaching the Test side and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved together, said McCullum in an ECB statement, adding: Of course I'm gutted not to be continuing, but I respect the decision. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Former England captain Ben Stokes announced his international retirement midway through what turned out to a crushing defeat in the third and final Test against New Zealand at Trent Bridge -- the final match of McCullum's red-ball reign.
India's Yastika Bhatia Becomes First Woman To Score Lord's Test Century
Yastika Bhatia rode her luck before becoming the first woman to score a Test century at Lord's as India continued to pile on the agony for England on Sunday. In what is the first women's Test at Lord's -- 142 years and 150 matches since the ground staged it's debut men's Test -- Bhatia might have been dismissed for her overnight 39 off the very first ball of Sunday's play. The left-hander was beaten on the inside edge by a Lauren Bell delivery that clipped off stump without dislodging the bails. Bhatia made the most of her good fortune to complete an 86-ball fifty including six fours and was 91 not out at lunch on the third day of four, with India 250-4 in their second innings -- a huge overall lead of 365 runs. There were no 'nervous 90s' for the 25-year-old Bhatia who soon after play resumed went to 99 by hitting England fast bowler Issy Wong for two fours off consecutive balls - a square drive followed by a carve to point. And a quick single off Wong then saw Bhatia to a 145-ball hundred including 12 fours, the batter punching the air in delight as her team-mates gathered on the India dressing room balcony in the pavilion to applaud her achievement. Bhatia has now joined the likes of such India men's greats Vinoo Mankad, Dilip Vengsarkar, Mohammad Azharrudin, Sourav Ganguly and Rahul Dravid in scoring a Test century at the 'Home of Cricket'. India resumed on 154-1, 269 runs ahead. England were left needing to rewrite the record books even before a ball was bowled Sunday as the highest successful fourth-innings chase to win any women's Test is Australia's 198 against England in Sydney in 2011. And this was also their first morning in the field since former captain Heather Knight had announced after Saturday's close that she would be joining longtime England team-mate Tammy Beaumont in retiring from international cricket after this match. Smriti Mandhana had been in superb touch Saturday as she backed up her first-innings 83 with another fluent half-century. There were hopes she might join team-mate Kranti Gaud, who took five wickets on Saturday, on the Lord's honours boards by becoming the first woman to score a Test century at the ground. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But Mandhana had added just one run to her overnight 69 not out when she flicked at a legside delivery from Bell and was well caught low to her right by diving wicket-keeper Amy Jones.
Brendon McCullum Steps Down As England Test Coach, Will Continue In White-ball Roles
ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard: In a major shake-up, Brendon McCullum has stepped down as the head coach of the England mens Test team following a dismal run of results. However, McCullum will continue to coach the white-ball senior mens teams. McCullum's exit from the red-ball format brings a definitive end to the high-profile 'Bazball' era, coming just two weeks after star all-rounder Ben Stokes stepped down as captain by retiring from international cricket. McCullum stated that while he was disappointed to leave the red-ball setup, he respected the board's decision to bring in a change ahead of the next Ashes cycle. I've absolutely loved coaching the Test side and I'm incredibly proud of what we've achieved together. There've been some unbelievable highs and a few tough days along the way, but that's all part of taking on a challenge like this. Its been a privilege and an honour, and Im grateful. Grateful to the players, the staff and the fans who supported us on the journey. Of course I'm gutted not to be continuing, but I respect the decision, he said in a statement issued by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) on Sunday. Under McCullum, England reached the ICC Mens T20 World Cup semi-finals earlier this year and beat India 4-0 to become the new number one ranked mens T20I team in the world. With his departure, the England Test team is now left without a head coach and a captain, with their next assignment against Pakistan scheduled to begin on August 19. My focus now is on giving everything I've got to the White Ball teams and helping England keep moving forward. I wish the Test team nothing but success. There's a hell of a lot of talent in that dressing room and they're a special bunch of lads. I'll always be backing the boys, with a smile on my face, and hoping they keep taking the game on. I know they'll continue to make people proud, added McCullum. McCullums four-year tenure as Test coach began in 2022 and saw an initially blockbuster period of progressive cricket built on ultra-aggressive batting. But the team's fortunes plummeted of late, losing seven of their past nine Tests. This included a 4-1 Ashes hammering in Australia and a subsequent 2-1 home series defeat against New Zealand - England's first home series loss of at least three Tests in 14 years. The decline was further compounded by off-field controversies, including a nightclub incident involving Stokes and pace bowler Gus Atkinson, which preceded the former's abrupt retirement. Expressing gratitude for McCullum's contribution, ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gould said, Brendon breathed new life into England Mens Test team during an exciting period which saw some amazing victories, and were grateful for all he has given to the role. We now believe that the time is right to make a change for the Test team as we target victory in The Ashes next summer. England Mens Managing Director Rob Key reflected on the evolution of the side under McCullums guidance. Some of England's most memorable moments in recent history have occurred under Brendons leadership of the Test team. Expressing gratitude for McCullum's contribution, ECB Chief Executive Officer Richard Gould said, Brendon breathed new life into England Mens Test team during an exciting period which saw some amazing victories, and were grateful for all he has given to the role. We now believe that the time is right to make a change for the Test team as we target victory in The Ashes next summer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ECB also confirmed that the recruitment process for a new mens Test head coach will begin immediately. McCullum's current white-ball contract runs until the end of the 50-over World Cup, to be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia next year. Article Source: IANS
Brendon McCullum removed from post as England Men's Test coach
ECB makes U-turn with 2027 Ashes in mind, although McCullum will keep white-ball brief
One-off Test: Yastika Bhatia Creates History, Becomes First Woman To Score Test Century At Lords
Anterior Cruciate Ligament: India wicketkeeper-batter Yastika Bhatia scripted history on Sunday by becoming the first woman cricketer to score a Test century at the iconic Lords Cricket Ground. The landmark achievement came on day three of Indias ongoing one-off Test match against England. Yastika showed immense grit and elegance in stroke-play to reach her maiden international century off 145 balls, a knock studded with 12 boundaries. The Baroda-born cricketer, who overcame a career-threatening Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) injury and marked her return to international cricket on the ongoing trip to England, reached the milestone in style during the afternoon session. Having gone into the lunch break on 91, Yastika showed no signs of nervous nineties when the post-lunch session resumed. She smashed consecutive boundaries off England pacer Issy Wong through the backward point region before taking a single to cover to seal her place on the hallowed Honours Board at Lord's. Yastika did have a slice of luck early in the morning when the very first delivery of the day from Lauren Bell clipped her off-stump but failed to dislodge the bails. Capitalising on the reprieve, Yastika played a dynamic yet structured innings, targeting the straight boundary and cover region heavily for her runs. Having gone into the lunch break on 91, Yastika showed no signs of nervous nineties when the post-lunch session resumed. She smashed consecutive boundaries off England pacer Issy Wong through the backward point region before taking a single to cover to seal her place on the hallowed Honours Board at Lord's. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kranti had earned her spot earlier in the game by picking a brilliant five-wicket haul on day twos play. Former Australia cricketer Mel Jones said on-air, The fist goes up in the air as Bhatia, from Baroda to Lord's, can soak in this monumental occasion. A century at Lord's, on to the honours board and a moment she will never, ever forget. Article Source: IANS
Priyanka Chopra reunited with her Andaaz co-star Lara Dutta after years, delighting fans with their nostalgic reunion.Shubman Gill was spotted with Sachin, Anjali and Sara Tendulkar, reigniting dating rumours with Sara
New Delhi: England head coach Brendon McCullum said his players had earned the opportunity to celebrate after completing a 4-0 T20I series sweep over India, confirming that he would ease the team's recently introduced alcohol guidelines for one night. Speaking after England's 56-run victory at Southampton, McCullum explained that while the squad remained aware of the ECB's revised code of conduct, he believed the occasion warranted a measured celebration following a successful campaign. England's management had tightened off-field regulations earlier this year by introducing stricter behavioural expectations and a midnight curfew following a series of disciplinary issues on overseas tours. Updated guidance circulated within the squad also recommended that players avoid alcohol from the day before a match until the day after its conclusion, although the policy allowed for exceptions at the discretion of McCullum and managing director Rob Key. After sealing the series against India and climbing to the top of the ICC men's T20I rankings, McCullum said the circumstances justified a relaxed approach. For a start, there's not many of our guys that actually drink, but anyone that wants a beer can have a beer, yes. The guidelines are in place. People are very aware of the guidelines. They've been sent around. The policy is designed to make sure that people are being looked after and making the right decisions, McCullum was quoted by Cricinfo. The former New Zealand captain stressed that the emphasis remained on responsibility rather than restriction, adding that the squad had earned the chance to enjoy its achievement. I trust the players completely. All the information is there. You still have to feel the warmth of success and if you are someone that likes a beer, then tonight is a great opportunity to be able to enjoy yourself - as long as it's sensible, and it's not to excess - and allow something that you've achieved over the last ten days or so sink in the way that you want it to, he added. McCullum also issued a light-hearted reminder that celebrations should remain out of the headlines. But everyone's very aware of it (the guidance) and I think we'll have a quiet beer and just let this one land - just as long as no-one lands on the front page. The revised guidance follows a number of off-field incidents involving England players over the past year, including breaches of team protocols and late-night outings that prompted the ECB to revisit its code of conduct. McCullum also reflected on the development of England white-ball captain Harry Brook, who has emerged as one of the team's senior leaders after learning from mistakes made earlier in his career. He probably didn't quite understand the standing he had within the game and English cricket, and the responsibilities that come with that stuff. Sometimes, a mistake like that can be the making of someone. He acknowledged that he's grown immensely since then, and he's got a significant future in front of him as a leader in English cricket, he said. Praising Brook's influence in the dressing room, McCullum described the Yorkshire batter as someone whose growth had extended beyond his on-field performances, as he said, I consider him not just a good mate, but I feel like he's almost one of my other sons. He hasn't always got everything right and he's made mistakes off the field, but the growth that we've seen in him over the last 12 months or so has been immense. He continued by highlighting Brook's growing stature within the England setup, saying, He's very well respected in the dressing room as a leader, as a tactician, and obviously as a player, but he's growing at unbelievable speed and I thoroughly enjoy working with him. I feel like we're able to get the best out of each other, and I'm sure that'll continue over the time to come. Praising Brook's influence in the dressing room, McCullum described the Yorkshire batter as someone whose growth had extended beyond his on-field performances, as he said, I consider him not just a good mate, but I feel like he's almost one of my other sons. He hasn't always got everything right and he's made mistakes off the field, but the growth that we've seen in him over the last 12 months or so has been immense. Also Read: Live Cricket Score (Winning 4-0) is immensely satisfying, so a week is a long time in sport. Things can alter quite quickly, and the key is to try to remove the emotion from things at times, and still look at the job and the task at hand. I thought the boys were brilliant at that, the 44-year-old said. Article Source: IANS
McCullum relaxes new drinking regulations after England series win
ECB's policy on alcohol came with a clause that McCullum and managing director Rob Key could overrule the guidance
Heather Knight: Former England spinner Alex Hartley has hailed Heather Knight's extraordinary contribution to women's cricket following the England captain's decision to retire from international cricket, saying she was not surprised by the announcement and describing Knight's final appearance at Lord's as he perfect story to cap an illustrious career. Speaking about Knight's farewell during the historic, ongoing women's Test at Lord's, Hartley reflected on the former skipper's relentless commitment to the game and the timing of her decision, saying that her retirement had been on the horizon, given the physical and mental demands that accompanied her years of leadership. It's not really taken me by surprise. I mean, Heather's done so much for the game and there's only so much you can do before you're tired of keep fighting and keep, you know, putting yourself forward, Hartley told BBC. She pointed to Knight's selfless approach as one of the defining features of her career, saying the former England captain consistently gave her all to the team. She leads from the front. I've never seen anything like Heather Knight before. You know, everything she does, she gives more than you would think is humanly possible. So she's you know, I'm not surprised she can't really give any more, she added. Hartley also revealed that Knight had been contemplating retirement for some time, noting that elite athletes often face the difficult task of deciding when to step away despite major tournaments always lying ahead. And, you know, she said she's been thinking about it for a while. There's always something around the corner, right? So there's always the ashes next summer. Then there's always the Olympics. So for yourself and in your mind, you've got to think, when is the right time for me to call it a day? So I wasn't overly surprised that she's called it a day, she stated. Knight's final international appearance came at Lord's, a venue closely intertwined with some of the biggest moments of her career. Hartley said the occasion provided a fitting conclusion to the former skipper's journey in England colours. And, you know, she said she's been thinking about it for a while. There's always something around the corner, right? So there's always the ashes next summer. Then there's always the Olympics. So for yourself and in your mind, you've got to think, when is the right time for me to call it a day? So I wasn't overly surprised that she's called it a day, she stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Knight leaves the international stage as one of England's most influential cricketers, having captained the side to the 2017 Women's World Cup title and overseen a transformative period for the women's game. Her farewell at Lord's, the venue of her greatest triumph as captain and the site of the first women's Test played at the iconic ground, marked the end of a career that has left a lasting impact on English cricket. Article Source: IANS
Never Seen A More Confused Indian Cricket Team Management, Says Mohammad Kaif
T20 World Cup: Former India cricketer Mohammad Kaif has slammed the team management for mishandling batters Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Sanju Samson in the 4-0 T20I series defeat to England, adding that he has never seen a more confused Indian cricket team management. India, the current T20 World Cup holders, endured a forgettable tour, losing 2-0 to Ireland before receiving a drubbing in England, which also led to them losing their top spot in the ICC Mens T20I rankings. The tour was marred by erratic selection calls, particularly involving teenaged batting sensation Sooryavanshi and wicketkeeper-batter Samson, who was the Player of the Tournament in this years T20 World Cup triumph on home soil. Never seen a more confused Indian cricket team management. The handling of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Sanju Samson has been far from professional. One is a generational talent, another World Cup winner - they need to be given confidence not doubts in their minds, Kaif wrote on his X account on Sunday. Samson initially played three games, but got out cheaply and India then dropped him to accommodate Sooryavanshi, who couldnt cross 20 in his first three T20I games. In Saturdays 56-run defeat at Southampton, Samson was recalled at the expense of Sooryavanshi to fix a top-order left-handed imbalance. To add further confusion, Samson has been excluded while Sooryavanshi is retained for the three-game series in Zimbabwe, starting on July 23. Meanwhile, ex-India batter Sanjay Manjrekar urged selectors to look beyond Indian Premier League (IPL) performances, arguing that flat domestic tracks give a distorted view of a batter's capability in testing overseas conditions. Samson initially played three games, but got out cheaply and India then dropped him to accommodate Sooryavanshi, who couldnt cross 20 in his first three T20I games. In Saturdays 56-run defeat at Southampton, Samson was recalled at the expense of Sooryavanshi to fix a top-order left-handed imbalance. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Challenge is for the selectors to imagine Indian batters without the heavy IPL make up on & pick only those for India. A lot of T20 cricket will be overseas now. The home fun run is over, he wrote on his X account. Article Source: IANS
I Was Receiving Calls Demanding Rs. 7.5 Lakh To Get Case Withdrawn: Shashank Singh
Special Director General: Punjab Kings cricketer Shashank Singh has revealed that he received calls demanding Rs 5 lakh and Rs 7.5 lakh in exchange for the withdrawal of an assault case filed against him and his father, claiming that the allegations were part of an attempt to extort money and tarnish his reputation. Shashank and his father, retired Special Director General (DG) of Police Shailesh Singh, were booked by the Ratibad police last month after a cook employed at their residence accused them of allegedly confining and assaulting him, abusing him and forcibly taking away his mobile phone. Speaking exclusively to IANS about the case, Shashank claimed that he began receiving calls from unknown numbers offering to have the case withdrawn in return for money. I was receiving calls from unknown numbers. One caller demanded 5 lakh, saying that if I paid the amount, the case would be withdrawn. Another caller demanded 7.5 lakh, making the same offer to get the case withdrawn. At that time, we did not know that he was a professional criminal. Gradually, we came to know that several cases had already been registered against him. He had allegedly come with the intention of tarnishing my reputation Shashank told IANS. The middle-order batter also claimed that he and his family were shocked after learning about the complainants alleged criminal history. According to Shashank, cases had been registered against the man since 2018, including an attempt-to-murder case. An FIR had already been registered against him. This was not the first time. Cases had been registered against him since 2018. He had done this before as well. He was a habitual criminal, and there was even an attempt to murder case registered against him under Section 307. All of this was shocking for me. We were also shocked because when he left our house, he was fine. What happened outside? What led to the scuffle? I saw the videos and visuals, but it all appeared to be an attempt to extort money from us-to threaten and intimidate us into paying he added. Earlier on Sunday, Shashank issued a lengthy social media statement denying the allegations and claiming that a 'false FIR' had been used as a tool for extortion to damage his reputation as a public figure. The cricketer said the episode had changed him as a person, recalling how he was portrayed overnight as someone who had assaulted an underprivileged individual. This incident changed me forever and taught me lessons I will carry for life. I am not writing this for sympathy. I am writing it because this was the first time my family and I experienced something like this, and I hope others learn from it, he wrote on Instagram. Shashank claimed that the complainant had left his house unharmed and that his family was later shocked to see videos showing him with injuries. He further alleged that police records subsequently revealed that the man had nine FIRs registered against him and had been charge-sheeted in eight cases for various offences. This incident changed me forever and taught me lessons I will carry for life. I am not writing this for sympathy. I am writing it because this was the first time my family and I experienced something like this, and I hope others learn from it, he wrote on Instagram. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shashank maintained that the case was an attempt to put pressure on him for monetary gain and urged people to conduct proper background checks and police verification before employing domestic staff. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: India Are Well On Top, They Can Bat England Out Of The Game, Says Farrant
With India: With India in a dominant position in the historic one-off women's Test against England at Lord's, former cricketer Tash Farrant believes that the visitors are well on top of the hosts and possess the firepower to completely bat them out of the game. After skittling out England for a paltry 170 and gain a 115-run lead, India capitalised on excellent batting conditions to reach 154/1 in their second essay at stumps on day two. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana led the charge with a classy, unbeaten 69, while Yastika Bhatia hit 39 not out. India are well on top and I think they can bat England out of the game. They just need to work out, if they are able to get a partnership going this morning, how much time they need to bowl England out. This pitch is a little bit low and slow, although when India are batting it looks like a different pitch. India are well and truly in the driving seat and have players that like to bat time, so England need to show some fight. Maybe that retirement announcement from Knight might just pick them up a little bit and give them an extra boost, said Tash on the broadcast ahead of day threes play. India are well on top and I think they can bat England out of the game. They just need to work out, if they are able to get a partnership going this morning, how much time they need to bowl England out. This pitch is a little bit low and slow, although when India are batting it looks like a different pitch. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England will be disappointed - they're going to have to find something. The thing about Test cricket is the draw is available. That means you need to fight for two days, get back in with wickets and see if you can get back into the game with the bat. Right now, I'm not saying 'get out there and win', but I think there's pride and professionalism that works towards at least a draw from here. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: I Am Happy And Content With The Decision, Says Knight On International Retirement
ODI World Cup: Englands ODI World Cup winning captain Heather Knight has said she is happy and content with her decision to retire from international cricket at the end of the ongoing Lords Test against India, adding that it feels like the perfect timing to step away. At the end of day twos play, Heather had announced that she would join opener Tammy Beaumont in retiring from international cricket at the end of the ongoing first-ever womens Test at Lord's. Heather will finish with 320 international appearances, and has 7988 runs so far. Shes also the first England player to score centuries in all three formats of the game. I definitely knew (I was going to retire) about two or three months ago. I came into the summer pretty sure it was going to be my last one. I have thought about it for quite some time, as you do and talked to a lot of people close to me. To be able to finish with a home World Cup and Test match, at Lord's, it felt really right. I am happy and content with the decision. It is not an easy thing to step away from but I am really grateful for the career I have had. It is perfect timing for me (to go), said Heather in a chat with broadcasters. She also admitted that she no longer possessed the intense drive required to sustain herself at the highest level, even though she wanted to leave while still performing well. I have always wanted to leave when I am still wanted and I still feel I am contributing to the team and playing well. But the main thing is that I am excited for what's next in my life and career. Things are dragging me away from the game and, after this summer, I probably feel that I haven't got the drive and energy to keep going, keep doing what you need to do to be an international cricketer. While she has drawn the curtains on her international career, Knight confirmed she intends to continue playing domestic cricket, though the specific details of her future appearances are yet to be finalised. Asked on her proudest moments in international cricket, Heather said, There are so many moments I am really proud of. There are the ones you see like the big World Cup win at Lords in 2017 but I am also proud of coming through setbacks. I am grateful for the good times but also the tough times which have made me the person and cricketer I am. The biggest thing I will reflect on and be grateful for is the journey I have seen the game on in sixteen years it is unrecognisable to what it is now. Hopefully I have played a small part in that. I worked off the field and pushing things forward in terms of contracts and getting the game to where it is now fills me with pride. It has been a wholesome 16 years. Tash Farrant, Heathers former international team-mate, said she was not surprised by the decision, while pointing to her transition into administrative roles, including her appointment as the general manager for London Spirit in The Hundred. It is a huge moment as Heather is one of the greatest players we have ever produced for England but I am not surprised by the decision. She has taken on a general manager role at London Spirit in The Hundred and I think she would have wanted to go out on her own terms, something not a lot of people are able to do. She loves Test cricket so to be able to play the first Test at Lord's (is a great way to go out). England are going to really miss her, she said. Tash Farrant, Heathers former international team-mate, said she was not surprised by the decision, while pointing to her transition into administrative roles, including her appointment as the general manager for London Spirit in The Hundred. It is a huge moment as Heather is one of the greatest players we have ever produced for England but I am not surprised by the decision. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Most people would have thought, 'that is it'. She kept redefining herself physically, although she was never the quickest between the wickets. She was also an out-and-out leader. Article Source: IANS
Pacer Prince Yadav: Team India have suffered a setback ahead of the ODI series against England and the T20Is against Zimbabwe as Harshit Rana and Varun Chakaravarthy have been ruled out due to hamstring injuries. Pacer Prince Yadav and spinner Ravi Bishnoi have replaced the two in the ODI and T20I squads, respectively. The Men's Selection Committee has named Prince Yadav and Ravi Bishnoi as replacements for Harshit Rana and Varun Chakaravarthy in India's ODI and T20I squads, respectively. Rana reported a sudden onset of discomfort in his right hamstring during the third T20I against England at Trent Bridge. Subsequent scans revealed a Grade 1 hamstring injury. He has been ruled out of the forthcoming ODI series against England and will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence (COE) for further assessment and management, BCCI said in a statement on Sunday. Chakaravarthy also reported a sudden onset of discomfort in his left hamstring during the third T20I against England. An MRI scan subsequently revealed a Grade 2 hamstring injury. Based on specialist medical advice, he has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe. He will report to the BCCI COE for further management, the statement added. India's updated squad for England ODIs: Shubman Gill (Captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (Vice-Captain), KL Rahul (WK), Ishan Kishan (WK), Washington Sundar, Axar Patel, Shivam Dube, Kuldeep Yadav, Jasprit Bumrah, Prasidh Krishna, Arshdeep Singh, Gurnoor Brar, Prince Yadav Chakaravarthy also reported a sudden onset of discomfort in his left hamstring during the third T20I against England. An MRI scan subsequently revealed a Grade 2 hamstring injury. Based on specialist medical advice, he has been ruled out of the upcoming T20I series against Zimbabwe. He will report to the BCCI COE for further management, the statement added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score After losing the five-game T20I series 0-4 to England, the Men in Blue will take on the new No. 1 T20I side in a three-match ODI series, starting July 14. The Shreyas Iyer and Shubman Gill-led sides will then begin their tour of Zimbabwe for three T20Is and as many ODIs, starting July 23. Article Source: IANS
PBKS Batter Shashank Alleges Extortion Plot In Assault Charges, Terms FIR 'tool Of Harassment'.
Special Director General: Punjab Kings cricketer Shashank Singh on Sunday opened up about a recent controversy involving his family, alleging that a false FIR was used as a tool for extortion to tarnish his reputation as a public figure. Last month, Shashank and his father, retired Special Director General (DG) of Police Shailesh Singh, were booked by the Ratibad police in Bhopal after a cook employed at their residence accused them of assault, abuse and forcibly taking away his mobile phone. In a lengthy social media post, the batter clarified his stance on the allegations, which claimed he had assaulted an underprivileged individual. This incident changed me forever and taught me lessons I will carry for life. I am not writing this for sympathy. I am writing it because this was the first time my family and I experienced something like this, and I hope others learn from it. As an athlete, I have faced criticism, trolling and abuse for years. I have learnt to live with it. But this was different. Overnight, I was portrayed as someone who had beaten up a person less privileged than I am. Thousands abused me without knowing the truth, he wrote. He continued, We were shocked when we later saw him in the video, because he had left our home completely fine. It took us time to process how someone could end up so badly beaten. He came to our home at his own insistence, but we sent him back on the third day after finding him wandering through the house, taking photos inside it, and forwarding them to his friends (or accomplices, now that I look back). Later, police records showed that he already had 9 FIRs registered against him and had been charge-sheeted in 8 cases for offences including attempt to murder, house theft (which we later discovered he had also committed at our home), assault, house-trespass, extortion by causing hurt, criminal intimidation, obscene acts, offences under SC/ST Act, and other crimes. He was using three different names to hide his identity. Shashank revealed that the entire incident was a trap orchestrating pressure on him for monetary gains. As more facts came to light, I came to believe that he had never entered our home with honest intentions, Singh stated. I believe the plan was to create pressure on me by filing a false FIR, expecting that I would pay money to protect my reputation as a public figure. In my view, the FIR was used as a tool of extortion rather than a genuine complaint. Expressing his shock over the swiftness of legal action against his family, the cricketer questioned how easily a complaint was registered without verifying the facts. What disturbed me even more was that, where genuine victims often struggle to get an FIR registered even for heinous crimes, one was registered against me and my family without hearing our side or questioning us, he added. He also rubbished circulating media reports connecting him to a similar alleged incident on April 30, 2026. He pointed out that a basic fact-check would have debunked the rumours, as he was actively playing in the IPL on that exact date. This reminded me how easily reputations can be damaged when rumours are treated as facts and verification is sacrificed for headlines, the cricketer noted. The middle-order batter, whose father served as an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer for 39 years, expressed relief that he was home with his parents on the day of the incident, stating they escaped what could have been a much more dangerous scenario involving a known criminal. Shashank further urged people to remain vigilant and run proper background checks when hiring staff. This experience taught me some hard lessons. Never let sympathy replace common sense. Always hire domestic help only through a registered agency after proper police verification, Singh concluded. The middle-order batter, whose father served as an Indian Police Service (IPS) officer for 39 years, expressed relief that he was home with his parents on the day of the incident, stating they escaped what could have been a much more dangerous scenario involving a known criminal. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Just because someone appears to be helpless, is crying, or seeks sympathy does not mean they are telling the truth. Truth may take time, but it always prevails. Article Source: IANS
My Happiness Knows No Bounds, Says Kranti's Coach On Pacer's 5-fer At Lord's
New Delhi: Indian pacer Kranti Gaud's historic five-wicket haul against England in the one-off Test at Lord's drew an emotional reaction from her coach, Rajiv Bilthare, who said the landmark achievement fulfilled not just the 22-year-old's dream of excelling at the Home of Cricket, but also a coach's aspiration of seeing his ward shine on one of the game's grandest stages. Kranti's spell helped India bowl England out for 170, putting the visitors firmly in control of the contest while also making her the first woman to earn a place on the iconic Lord's Test honours board. Reflecting on the milestone, Bilthare described the feat as a moment of immense personal pride after watching his ward script history at the historic venue. Every player dreams of playing at Lord's, and every coach dreams of seeing their student play at Lord's. Kranti Gaud has not only played at Lord's but has also delivered such a magnificent performance. To take five wickets at Lord's and create a record is an extraordinary achievement. Today, my happiness knows no bounds. I hope she continues to perform even better in the future, keeps progressing, and establishes herself as one of the leading fast bowlers in the game, Bilthare said in a video shared by Star Sports on X. Kranti's five-wicket haul came through the dismissals of Tammy Beaumont, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Lauren Bell. Besides becoming the first woman to feature on the Lord's Test honours board, she also became the youngest Indian woman fast bowler to claim a five-wicket haul in Test cricket. The achievement was equally special for Kranti's family, who joined in celebrating the milestone as India strengthened its grip on the one-off Test. In the same video, sharing his delight, Kranti's brother congratulated both the young seamer and the Indian team, while expressing hope that the visitors would complete the job by securing victory. The achievement was equally special for Kranti's family, who joined in celebrating the milestone as India strengthened its grip on the one-off Test. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kranti's memorable performance marked the first five-wicket haul by an Indian woman fast bowler in Test cricket since Jhulan Goswami achieved the feat against England at Taunton in 2006, adding another significant chapter to India's growing legacy in the longest format. Article Source: IANS
'It's Harsh To Say Iyer's Captaincy Future Is In Jeopardy': Nayar
The Rose Bowl: Former India cricketer Abhishek Nayar believes it would be 'harsh' to question Shreyas Iyers future as T20I captain following back-to-back series defeats and said the newly appointed skipper needs to be given the freedom to shape the team according to his vision. Indias difficult run in the shortest format continued on Saturday as they suffered a 56-run defeat to England in the fifth and final T20I at The Rose Bowl, completing a 4-0 series loss. The defeat also saw the reigning world champions surrender the No. 1 spot in the ICC Mens T20I rankings to England and extended their losing streak in the format to six matches. The series defeat came after India had suffered a shock 2-0 loss to Ireland, meaning Iyer is yet to register a win since taking over the T20I captaincy. Nayar, however, believes the two series will give Iyer an opportunity to reflect on the direction in which he wants to take the side and understand what he requires from his players and support staff. When you give someone the mantle of taking over from a champion side, you also want to give him the liberty of picking his side. The first time you become captain, you dont get the liberty of saying, This is where I want to take the team. You first handle the team and then see what you need to do with it, Nayar told Jio Hotstar. Post these two series, hell have time to reflect, understand what he requires from this team, how he needs them to play and what he needs from the support staff. So, it will be harsh to say that Shreyas Iyers future is in jeopardy as a captain, he added. Nayar stressed that Iyer must be given ownership of the side before his leadership can be properly assessed, citing the examples of Harry Brook, Ben Stokes, Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli. Post these two series, hell have time to reflect, understand what he requires from this team, how he needs them to play and what he needs from the support staff. So, it will be harsh to say that Shreyas Iyers future is in jeopardy as a captain, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Even Shubman Gill, when he first became the ODI captain, didnt win a few series first up. As you get into your own, you build confidence and the team you envision. Its still early days, theres no panic button, but there needs to be clarity as to where this team is going, he added. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Krantis Lord's Prophecy Comes True With Iconic Honours Board Entry
Kranti Gaud: Just days before India's one-off Test against England at Lord's, Kranti Gaud spoke of a dream shared by every fast bowler walking into the Home of Cricket. In a video now shared by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the pacer revealed how she, along with all the bowlers on her side, wished to have their name on the historic Test honours board and script history. By the end of Day 2 of the Test on Saturday, the 22-year-old had turned those words into reality. After producing a magnificent five-wicket haul to bowl England out for 170 and hand India a crucial first-innings lead, Kranti became the first woman in the history of the game to have her name inscribed on the prestigious Test honours board at Lord's. The Lord's Honours Board is very famous because the name of the person who picks five wickets is noted on the board. We are also very excited to take five wickets and get our name on the board, Kranti had said before the one-off Test commenced, in a video shared by BCCI on Sunday. The landmark moment was captured in a video shared by the BCCI, where Kranti was seen walking up to the honours board and carefully writing her name among the game's greats. Watching from afar were her family members, who joined via video call to witness one of the proudest moments of her career. India captain Harmanpreet Kaur was also seen congratulating Kranti's family, applauding the young pacers performance in a touching exchange after the historic achievement. As Kranti completed the inscription, her teammates and members of the support staff gathered around the honours board, breaking into loud applause to celebrate a feat never before achieved by a woman cricketer at Lord's. Kranti had delivered the spell that made the occasion possible. She removed Tammy Beaumont, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Lauren Bell to finish with a memorable five-wicket haul, playing the starring role as India tightened their grip on the Test. The performance also earned Kranti a place in Indian cricket history. At 22, she became the youngest Indian woman fast bowler to claim a five-wicket haul in Test cricket, surpassing Jhulan Goswami, who was 28 days older when she achieved the feat against England in New Delhi in 2005. Kranti had delivered the spell that made the occasion possible. She removed Tammy Beaumont, Maia Bouchier, Alice Capsey, England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Lauren Bell to finish with a memorable five-wicket haul, playing the starring role as India tightened their grip on the Test. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India ended Day 2 on a commanding note and will head into Day 3 at 154/1, with a 269-run lead. Article Source: IANS
Lionel Messi was involved in a heated exchange with the referee during Argentina's FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final against Switzerland after a controversial moment. The Argentine captain was seen passionately expressing his frustration before quickly refocusing on the match.
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Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Dropped for IND vs ENG 5th T20I; Fans Question Gautam Gambhir's Selection Call
Head coach Gautam Gambhir is under the scanner once again after India opted to drop Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for the final T20I against England. With the series already decided, the 15-year-old could have had another crack, but the management have instead brought back Samson, who was earlier replaced by Sooryavanshi in the series.
Jay Shah Congratulates Ganguly, Anjum And Pietersen For @ICC Hall Of Fame Honour
International Cricket Council: International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Jay Shah congratulated former India captains Sourav Ganguly and Anjum Chopra and England power-hitter Kevin Pietersen for the ichly deserved honour of being inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. The ICC introduced three additions to the prestigious ICC Hall of Fame on Saturday, July 11, with Ganguly, Anjum and Pietersen as the latest inductees, celebrating their achievements, excellence, and lasting impact that helped shape the history of international cricket. I am delighted to welcome the latest inductees into the @ICC Hall of Fame, a tribute to the extraordinary individuals whose achievements have contributed greatly to our sport @SGanguly99, @chopraanjum and @KP24 have all led their national teams with pride, and I would like to congratulate them on behalf of the ICC for this richly deserved honour, Shah posted on X. The Class of 2026 joins an illustrious group of cricketing greats whose remarkable achievements, enduring excellence and lasting influence have shaped the history of the sport. Their trio took the total number of ICC Hall of Fame members to 125, further strengthening a roll of honour that pays tribute to former players whose legacies continue to inspire millions of players and fans across the world. The Class of 2026 joins an illustrious group of cricketing greats whose remarkable achievements, enduring excellence and lasting influence have shaped the history of the sport. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Players become eligible for induction only five years after their final international appearance, preserving the ICC Hall of Fame as an exclusive tribute to those whose contributions have left an indelible mark on cricket. Article Source: IANS
Carty, Hope secure victory for West Indies after Lawes stars on debut
Left-arm wristspinner Lawes picked up three wickets in his first senior match in any format
England defeat Norway 2-1 as Jude Bellingham shines in World Cup quarterfinal
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'Going to make me better going forward' - Shreyas Iyer on tough start to captaincy
India's leader conceded they were outplayed and outfielded as they struggled with conditions in England and Ireland
Heather Knight to retire from international cricket after Lord's Test
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The 21-year-old beats her compatriot in an action-packed three-set Wimbledon final
Sourav Ganguly, Kevin Pietersen and Anjum Chopra inducted into ICC Hall of Fame
Their names were unveiled at a ceremony in Edinburgh, taking the total number of ICC Hall of Fame members to 125
5th T20I: 'England Outplayed India In Every Facet,' Says Dinesh Karthik After 4-0 Defeat
T20 World Cup: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik was critical of the Shreyas Iyer-led sides 4-0 T20I series defeat to England, stating that the reigning T20 World Cup winners were outplayed by the hosts in every facet of the game. The heavy 56-run defeat at The Rose Bowl capped off a winless T20I tour for India, who have also been dethroned from the top of the ICC Men's T20I rankings by England after suffering their sixth consecutive defeat on the trot in the shortest format. India were in a bad place mentally coming into the series. But England have absolutely dominated India, who are the T20 world champions. Across every facet of the game, England have outplayed India. That tells you they are deserving of the No 1 spot. Whats been impressive is their intent with bat and ball. Well done to England. Its been beautiful watching them dominate this format, Karthik said on Sky Sports Cricket at the conclusion of the series. Former England captain Eoin Morgan praised the management under captain Harry Brook and coach Brendon McCullum for ensuring a seamless transition after the Test series defeat to New Zealand. To completely sweep aside a very talented India team like England have, has been incredibly impressive. In turn, they have become the number one-ranked side in the world. Now they will be chased. England's expectations change from a bilateral series to a World Cup focus. England needs to enjoy that favourites tag. England's backroom staff came into this series with pressure on them. The transition from one format to another has seen a clear line drawn from the Test match series. Harry Brook and Brendon McCullum have not taken any baggage from one format to the other, he said. Meanwhile, former India wicketkeeper Deep Dasgupta urged selectors to look at the larger picture while highlighting tactical errors and a sub-par fielding effort from the visitors. It's important for the selectors to think about players, not just the T20 World Cup in 2028 but also the Olympic Games. But they have time to sort it out. Obviously, with a 50-over World Cup next year, perhaps they have prioritised that format a little more. India has a lot of talent, but they need to be exposed to different experiences and learn from them, Dasgupta said on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra. He also felt India needs to have more wicket-taking options in the middle overs and also slammed the sloppy fielding performance. It's obviously been a disappointing series, and the selectors have to go back to the drawing board. They need wicket-takers up front - and they have that in Jasprit Bumrah - but they still need to find them in the middle overs. Obviously, with a 50-over World Cup next year, perhaps they have prioritised that format a little more. India has a lot of talent, but they need to be exposed to different experiences and learn from them, Dasgupta said on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But there aren't too many positives to take forward, apart from an innings here and an innings there. I think tactically, England have been superior in this series. Some of India's plans have not sat well with me, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
West Indies hand Vitel Lawes ODI debut and bowl against New Zealand
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5th T20I: Win Against India A Big Achievement; Delighted With Top Ranking, Says Buttler
The Rose Bowl: England wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler expressed immense delight on securing a comprehensive 4-0 series sweep against India, which also propelled the hosts to the number one spot in the ICC Men's T20I team rankings, adding that its a big achievement that came due to the contributions of all players. Buttler, who roared back to form with a blistering 131 off 64 balls to claim the player-of-the-match award, stitched a massive 233-run second-wicket partnership with Brook (95 not out) to guide England to a colossal 257/3 in the fifth and final T20I here at The Rose Bowl on Saturday. Delighted. Had a lean patch for a bit. Happy to be back to my best. Always feel due, just the World Cup actually. Felt good about my game in the IPL, something about putting on the England shirt. Harry's incredible, putting incredible pressure on bowlers. Gotta give yourself time, belief, and trust in your game. We were going for as many as possible. We got twos on this big ground, which helped construct big overs. Good pitch too, we needed the runs too. Great team performance, to win 4-0 against India is a big achievement. Different players have made great contributions across disciplines, which is the most pleasing thing for the guys, Buttler said at the post-match presentation. Brook, who became Player of the Series for hitting 229 runs in four innings, lauded his bowling unit, particularly the spinners, for executing the plans perfectly and added that he enjoyed batting with Buttler. We were going for as many as possible. We got twos on this big ground, which helped construct big overs. Good pitch too, we needed the runs too. Great team performance, to win 4-0 against India is a big achievement. Different players have made great contributions across disciplines, which is the most pleasing thing for the guys, Buttler said at the post-match presentation. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We've got ourselves to World No. 1, which was a game after a couple of games. All boys are delighted, and we deserve to celebrate. You have to create pace on the ball while hitting the spill. We have spinners with nous and have the ability to make batters think. We've bowled a lot of spin, and they've been exceptional. We've communicated really well in the last 12 months, and we've executed things really well, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
T20I Rankings: India, the reigning world champions, surrendered their top spot in the ICC Mens T20I Rankings after suffering a 56-run defeat to England in the fifth and final match of the series at The Rose Bowl in Southampton on Saturday, as they suffered a 4-0 clean sweep at the hands of the visitors. The heavy defeat capped off a nightmare time for India in T20Is, as they failed to win a single game after having previously suffered a shock 2-0 sweep against Ireland. Chasing a mammoth target of 258 after a 30-minute traffic-induced delay, Shreyas Iyer's captaincy tenure has now begun with a definitive whimper, leaving the team management with plenty of burning questions in all aspects of the game. On a sun-baked afternoon, wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler roared back to form with a majestic 131 off 64 balls, ending an 18-inning lean patch without a half-century. Alongside Harry Brook, who smashed an unbeaten 95, the duo stitched together a breathtaking 233-run second-wicket partnership, the fourth-highest ever in T20I history, to effectively bat a listless India out of the contest by the halfway mark. Chasing a monumental target of 258, Indias run-chase got off to a flying start, but ultimately fizzled as they ended up at 201/8 in 20 overs, despite fifties from Ishan Kishan (56) and Tilak Varma (53). With this win, England have climbed to the top of the ICC Men's T20I team rankings, as India suffered their sixth consecutive defeat in the format. Skipper Shreyas Iyers decision to bowl first backfired hugely as Buttler played with angles well and was at his free-flowing best to hit 12 fours and eight sixes at a strike-rate of 204.69. Brook, despite falling five runs short of his second T20I century, hit four fours and eight sixes in a breathtaking knock. The duos clean hitting meant Indias bowlers were absolutely listless, while their fielding was terrible. India tasted early success when pacer Prasidh Krishna removed opener Phil Salt (6) in the second over, as he was caught by deep backward square leg. However, that remained India's only joy for a major part of the innings as Buttler and Brook decimated the bowling attack with an electrifying partnership. Brook was the initial aggressor, reaching a fiery half-century off just 19 deliveries, clubbing the Indian pacers and spinners alike. At the other end, Buttler started comparatively slower but shifted gears seamlessly after crossing his fifty in 34 balls. Indias woes were compounded by a dismal fielding display and dropping multiple regulation catches, including giving a reprieve to Buttler off Axar Patel in the 16th over and dropping Brook twice on three (by Shivam Dube) and 90 (by Kishan). Capitalising on the errors, Buttler brought up a magnificent century off 51 balls with a pulled six off Axar. The England captain was eventually dismissed by Dube in the 19th over after he completely miscued to mid-off. Dube picked up Jacob Bethell for a duck on the next delivery, but Will Jacks and Brook ensured England crossed the 250-mark. For India, Dube ended with figures of 2-22, while Axar leaked 63 runs in his four overs the most expensive spell hes ever bowled in T20 cricket. Indias response began aggressively, with Sanju Samson (27) smashing Jofra Archer for two boundaries in the opening over. Samson, brought in place of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, kept the momentum going by launching Josh Tongue for two spectacular sixes in the next over. However, Archer broke the 23-run opening stand in the third over, extracting extra bounce to have Abhishek Sharma (3) caught behind, while Samson (27) fell after slicing to cover point off Sam Curran (3-36). Skipper Shreyas Iyer joined Kishan and played a brisk cameo of 28 off 16 balls before stepping out to left-arm spinner Liam Dawson, only to slice it to backward point in the 11th over. Despite wickets falling, Kishan anchored one end with his strokeplay and brought up a 30-ball half-century. His stay was cut short on 56, laced with seven fours and two sixes, when he fell to Adil Rashid, playing his 150th T20I game, courtesy of a sliding catch by Phil Salt. Varma provided some late fireworks by smashing a blistering 24-ball fifty, decorated with four sixes and three boundaries. Curran derailed any remaining hopes of an Indian fightback by removing Shivam Dube (14) and Suryansh Shedge (7) in quick succession, while Varma was eventually caught behind off Tongue for 53 in the 18th over. Rashid then removed Axar Patel (3) in the final over as Indias forgettable series came to an end after yet another hammering at the hands of England. His stay was cut short on 56, laced with seven fours and two sixes, when he fell to Adil Rashid, playing his 150th T20I game, courtesy of a sliding catch by Phil Salt. Varma provided some late fireworks by smashing a blistering 24-ball fifty, decorated with four sixes and three boundaries. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England 257/3 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 131, Harry Brook 95 not out; Shivam Dube 2-22, Prasidh Krishna 1-38) beat India 201/8 in 20 overs (Ishan Kishan 56, Tilak Varma 53; Sam Curran 3-36, Adil Rashid 2-24) by 56 runs Article Source: IANS
Buttler, Brook brilliance ensures England bulldoze India 4-0
India fail to turn up after delayed start as second-wicket stand of 233 from 103 sets up thumping win
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Five-Wicket Kranti Gaud Stars Before India Run Riot In Women's Test At Lord's
Kranti Gaud took five wickets before Smriti Mandhana once more piled on the runs against England as India continued to dominate the inaugural women's Test at Lord's on Saturday. Seam bowler Gauad led the way with a miserly 5-37 in 17 overs to become the first woman to gain a coveted place on the Lord's dressing room honours board for a Test performance as England were dismissed for 170 in reply to India's first-innings 285. Come the close of the second day of four, India were 154-1 in their second innings -- a huge overall lead of 269 runs. Elegant left-hander Mandhana, carrying on from her sublime first-innings 83, was 69 not out after sharing an opening stand of 88 with Shafali Verma (33). The hosts will need to rewrite the record books if they are to achieve an unlikely win, with the highest successful fourth-innings chase in a women's Test the 198 posted by Australia against England at Sydney's Bankstown Oval in 2011. After 142 years of men's Test cricket at Lord's, this fixture represents another landmark in the evolution of the women's game. And the 22-year-old Gaud will join the likes of Indian men Bhaghwat Chandrasekhar, Bishan Bedi and Kapil Dev on the away dressing room honours board at Lord's that lists bowlers who have taken five or more wickets in a Test innings at the ground. - England collapse - England, who resumed on 21-1, lost two wickets for no runs in four balls as they collapsed to 32-3. Their only significant resistance on another sunny day at Lord's came from a fifth-wicket stand of 84 between captain Nat Sciver-Brunt (44) and Amy Jones (52). India's seamers settled into an accurate line and length far more quickly than their England counterparts. Maia Bouchier, 17 not out overnight, pushed loosely outside off stump to Gaud and was caught behind for 23. And 32-2 became 32-3 when ex-England captain Heather Knight was lbw to Sayali Satghare for six. The collapse continued when Gaud produced a superb delivery that slanted in and then swung away to bowl Alice Capsey for nine, with England now in dire straits at 47-4. Sciver-Brunt, fresh from her 58 not out in England's T20 World Cup final defeat by Australia at Lord's last week, found an ally in Jones, who put a run of low white-ball scores behind her with a well-made fifty. But the wicket-keeper fell before lunch when she gave a simple bat-pad catch to short leg off the bowling of off-spinner Sneh Rana. Sciver-Brunt had only added five runs to her interval score of 39 when Gaud had her plumb lbw. Gaud completed her five-wicket haul in dramatic fashion when Lauren Bell's edged drive flew to the slip cordon, where it was parried in front of her throat by Rana before a diving Verma grabbed the rebound. Mandhana, who on Friday became the youngest women to feature in 300 international games across all formats at the age of 29 years and 357 days on Friday, was again in excellent touch . She punished Bell for pitching short with languid pull shots and the runs kept coming as Verma, out for nought in the first innings, struck the seamer down the ground. Mandhana, dominant against the quicks, lofted left-arm spinner Sophie Ecclestone -- who on Friday became England's leading wicket-taker in all international formats -- for a magnificent straight six. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Verma eventually holed out off Eccclestone, but by then India were already more than 200 runs ahead.
Gaud makes her Lord's mark as India surge into dominant position
India make all the running on day two, as Mandhana leads imposing batting display in third innings
One-off Test: India 154/1 At Stumps On Day 2 As Mandhana, Kranti Hand Visitors 269-run Lead Vs ENG
Kranti Gaud: India tightened their grip on the one-off womens Test at Lords with a dominant all-round display on Day 2, riding Kranti Gauds maiden five-wicket haul and an unbroken half-century from Smriti Mandhana to finish at 154/1 in their second innings, stretching their overall lead to 269 runs with two full days still to play. The visitors began the day sensing an opportunity with England resuming on 113/5, still 148 runs adrift. That opening soon turned into complete control as Indias bowlers wrapped up the innings for 170 inside the first hour after lunch. England briefly resisted through captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Amy Jones, who added valuable runs after the overnight collapse. Jones looked positive, while Sciver-Brunt held one end together with a composed 44. However, India struck at crucial intervals to deny the hosts any sustained recovery. Kranti Gaud once again led the charge. The young seamer produced the breakthrough India desperately wanted by trapping Sciver-Brunt lbw with a delivery that jagged back sharply, ending Englands biggest hope of cutting into the deficit. Sayali Satghare then removed Sophie Ecclestone before Sneh Rana accounted for debutant Mady Villiers, exposing the tail. Gaud returned to complete a memorable five-wicket haulher maiden Test five-for and the second of her Test careerby dismissing Lauren Bell, while Deepti Sharma wrapped up the innings as England folded for 170, conceding a substantial 115-run first-innings lead. It was Englands third-lowest first-innings total against India at home and the first five-wicket haul by a pace bowler in a womens Test in England since Ellyse Perrys 6/32 at Canterbury in 2015. Armed with a sizeable cushion, Indias openers ensured England never found a route back into the contest. Lauren Bell and Lauren Filer began with disciplined spells, extracting movement under overcast conditions, but Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma weathered the early examination before gradually shifting gears. Shafali was the aggressor, driving Bell elegantly through the offside before taking on Sophie Ecclestone with successive boundaries, while Mandhana punished anything short with authoritative pulls. The pair added 88 runs for the opening wicket, extending their remarkable record together. It was their seventh 50-plus partnership in Tests, the most by any pair in the history of womens Test cricket. Englands only breakthrough came when Ecclestone tempted Shafali into an ambitious lofted stroke, the opener miscuing to mid-on for a brisk 33. Although England finally separated the openers, the wicket did little to alter the momentum. Yastika Bhatia joined Mandhana, and the duo calmly steered India through the final session. Mandhana, who had scored a half-century in the first innings, brought up another composed fifty with a controlled single off Mady Villiers, becoming only the fourth Indian woman to register two fifty-plus scores in the same Test. The milestone also took her to seven Test half-centuries, drawing level with Shantha Rangaswamy and second only to Sandhya Agarwal among Indian women. While Mandhana mixed caution with elegant strokeplay, driving Ecclestone down the ground for four and later launching the left-arm spinner for a straight six, Bhatia settled in confidently at the other end. The left-hander used her feet effectively against the spinners, collecting boundaries through extra cover and straight down the ground while frustrating Englands attempts to create opportunities. England rotated Bell, Filer, Issy Wong, Ecclestone, and Villiers in search of inspiration, but inconsistent lines, a few missed chances, and disciplined Indian batting ensured the visitors stayed firmly on top. Mandhana remained unbeaten on 69, while Bhatia was equally assured on 39 not out, with the pair carrying their unbroken stand past fifty before stumps. By the close, India had reached 154/1, extending their overall lead to 269 runs with nine wickets still in hand. Having dominated with the ball in the morning and controlled proceedings with the bat thereafter, Harmanpreet Kaurs side now holds all the aces heading into Day 3, while England face the daunting task of forcing their way back into a contest that is rapidly slipping beyond their reach. England rotated Bell, Filer, Issy Wong, Ecclestone, and Villiers in search of inspiration, but inconsistent lines, a few missed chances, and disciplined Indian batting ensured the visitors stayed firmly on top. Mandhana remained unbeaten on 69, while Bhatia was equally assured on 39 not out, with the pair carrying their unbroken stand past fifty before stumps. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 285/10 and 154/1 in 42 overs (Smriti Mandhana 69*, Yastika Bhatiya 39*, Shafali Verma 33; Sophie Ecclestone 1-46) lead England 170 all out in 59.1 overs (Amy Jones 52, Nat Sciver-Brunt 44; Kranti Gaud 5-37, Sayali Satghare 2-40, Sneh Rana 2-41, Deepti Sharma 1-10) by 269 runs. Article Source: IANS
Ganguly, Pietersen, Anjum Inducted Into ICC Hall Of Fame (ld)
ICC Chairman Jay Shah: Former India captains Sourav Ganguly and Anjum Chopra, along with former England skipper Kevin Pietersen, were inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame on Saturday, joining cricket's most exclusive list of legends in recognition of their outstanding contributions to the game. The trio forms the Class of 2026, taking the total number of ICC Hall of Fame inductees to 125. Announced at a ceremony in Edinburgh, the honour celebrates players whose achievements, excellence, and lasting impact have helped shape the history of international cricket. ICC Chairman Jay Shah congratulated the three former captains, saying their accomplishments would continue to inspire future generations. I am delighted to welcome the latest inductees into the ICC Hall of Fame, a tribute to the extraordinary individuals whose achievements have contributed greatly to our sport. This year's inductees represent the highest standards of excellence, and each one of them has earned the admiration of fans around the world. Sourav, Anjum, and Kevin have all led their national teams with pride, and I would like to congratulate them on behalf of the ICC for this richly deserved honour. Their place in the ICC Hall of Fame ensures their achievements will be celebrated for generations to come, standing alongside the game's greatest figures, the ICC chief said. One of India's most influential captains, Ganguly, transformed the national team into a formidable force during his tenure. The elegant left-hander began his Test career with centuries in his first two innings and finished with 7,212 runs in 113 Tests and 11,363 runs in 311 One-Day Internationals. As captain, he guided India to the finals of the ICC Champions Trophy in 2000 and the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup in 2003, while also leading the side to a shared Champions Trophy title in 2002. Reacting to the honour, Ganguly said, I am honoured to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. To have my name included among cricket's greatest players will remain one of my most cherished moments. Representing India and playing along with several greats of the game has been a privilege, and to now be recognised in this way is truly special. I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Mr. Jay Shah for this huge honour, which I consider the highest recognition a cricketer can receive. This game has given me a lot, and I hope to continue to serve the game in the years to come. I would like to take this opportunity to thank my near and dear ones for their support over the years. Chopra became only the second Indian woman to enter the ICC Hall of Fame after a trailblazing international career. A stylish left-handed batter, she was the first Indian woman to score 1,000 ODI runs and the first to feature in 100 ODIs. She captained India to their maiden overseas Test victory in South Africa in 2002 and played a key role in the team's memorable run to the 2005 ICC Women's World Cup final. Speaking after receiving the honour, Chopra, the lone woman inductee, said, As a kid growing up in a sporting household, I had heard stories of cricketing greats and momentous achievements. A dream to play for India got instilled very early on. I was encouraged to think big by my parents, teachers, and coaches, who have always been there to support me during tough times. I also got the timely support of administrators as I went on to wear the national colours with great pride. This honour - to be recognised amongst the games greatest - is an award for all those who have helped shape my career. I am thankful to all of them and delighted to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. Former England captain Pietersen was also honoured for a career that saw him emerge as one of the game's most destructive batters. He played a pivotal role in England's memorable 2005 Ashes triumph, was the Player of the Tournament in their victorious 2010 ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign, and retired as England's highest run-scorer across all three international formats combined, amassing more than 13,700 international runs. Its a great honour to be inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame. To be recognised in this way and see my name beside so many of the game's greats is truly humbling. It is the highest recognition a cricketer can receive, and I know it will take some time for it to fully sink in. Former England captain Pietersen was also honoured for a career that saw him emerge as one of the game's most destructive batters. He played a pivotal role in England's memorable 2005 Ashes triumph, was the Player of the Tournament in their victorious 2010 ICC Men's T20 World Cup campaign, and retired as England's highest run-scorer across all three international formats combined, amassing more than 13,700 international runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Introduced in 2009 as part of the ICC's centenary celebrations, the ICC Hall of Fame recognises former players whose achievements and influence have left an enduring mark on the sport. Cricketers become eligible for induction only five years after their final international appearance, ensuring the honour remains one of the game's most exclusive distinctions. Article Source: IANS
Tanzid Hasan Stars As Bangladesh Avoid Zimbabwe ODI Whitewash
Opener Tanzid Hasan struck 94 runs as Bangladesh trounced hosts Zimbabwe by seven wickets on Saturday in a dead rubber one-day international in Harare. Zimbabwe had clinched a winning 2-0 lead in the three-game series two days ago with a 13-run victory after taking the opener by 25 runs. The tourists won the toss and bowled Zimbabwe for 199 with Wessly Madhevere (75) and Brad Evans (50) the only batters delivering significant knocks. Bangladesh then reached 200-3 with 84 balls to spare. They now switch their focus to a three-match Twenty20 series in Bulawayo, starting on Wednesday. Before the ODIs, they lost a one-off Test. Player of the match Tanzid said: I am happy because the wicket was good. When I went to the wicket, the ball came on nicely. In the previous wickets, there was a little bit more bounce. Madhevere fell when his top edge was held by Mehidy Hasan Miraz in the covers. Evans was also punished for a top edge, caught by Tanvir Islam at fine leg. Quick Shoriful Islam (4-44) was the pick of the Bangladeshi bowlers. His victims included opener Ben Curran (2), a centurion in the second ODI. After failing in the previous ODIs when chasing a win, Bangladesh made no mistake at the third attempt as Tanzid and Soumya Sarkar (69) put on 151 runs for the opening wicket. Zimbabwe used seven bowlers without success until Sarkar was bowled by Tanaka Chivanga in the 28th over. Tanzid fell just six runs short of a second ODI century, caught by Evans at long on. His knock included three sixes and eight fours off 101 deliveries. Brief scores Zimbabwe 199 in 48.1 overs (W. Madhevere 75, B. Evans 50; Shoriful Islam 4-44) v Bangladesh 200-3 in 36 overs (Tanzid Hasan 94, Soumya Sarkar 69) Reseult: Bangladesh won by seven wickets Series: Zimbabwe won 2-1 Also Read: Live Cricket Score Toss: Bangladesh
TG20 Season 1: Title Beckons As Anvita Khammam Aces Face Hyderabad E-Champions In Final
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: The stage is set for the grand finale of the TG20 Season 1, as Anvita Khammam Aces and Hyderabad E-Champions gear up to face off in the title decider at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad on Sunday. Ahead of the title decider, captains of the two franchises -- CV Milind (Anvita Khammam Aces) and Abhirath Reddy (Hyderabad E-Champions) -- came together for the pre-final press conference on Saturday, alongside members of the Hyderabad Cricket Association (HCA) and the TG20 governing council. Anvita Khammam Aces handed Hyderabad E-Champions their first defeat of the tournament with a hard-fought 10-run win in Qualifier 1, ending the E-Champions' unbeaten run and sealing direct qualification for the final. Mickil Jaiswal's unbeaten 76 anchored the Aces' total of 200 for six, with the bowling unit, led by Sahendra Mallu, defending the total to close out the game. The Aces have drawn on strong all-round contributions through the season, with Himateja Kodimela among the tournament's top run-getters, striking 430 runs at an average of over 107, including an unbeaten century. Meanwhile, 16-year-old spinner Ved Reddy, who has been the find of the tournament, has led their bowling attack with 14 wickets. Speaking at the press conference ahead of the final, CV Milind, captain of Anvita Khammam Aces, said, We're expecting a great contest because both teams have played exceptional cricket throughout the tournament. Hyderabad E-Champions are a complete side, but our focus is on staying calm under pressure, executing our roles, and playing the brand of cricket that has brought us this far. Having Himateja back is a big boost for us, but this has never been about one player. If every individual contributes, we'll give ourselves the best chance of lifting the trophy. After suffering their first defeat, Hyderabad E-Champions responded in emphatic fashion in Qualifier 2, registering a commanding eight-wicket win over EIPL & eleve Karimnagar Diamonds to book their own spot in the final, with skipper Abhirath Reddy leading the way with a fluent 82. That statement performance has set up a final-day rematch, with the E-Champions eager to avenge their Qualifier 1 defeat on the biggest stage of the tournament. The E-Champions' captain has powered his teams campaign, cementing his spot as the tournament's leading run-scorer. He also became the first batter this season to cross the 500-run mark, while Ajay Dev Goud has spearheaded their bowling attack as the competition's leading wicket-taker with 19 scalps. Abhirath Reddy, captain of Hyderabad E-Champions, stated, Anvita Khammam Aces have been one of the strongest teams in the tournament, and we're looking forward to another high-quality contest. Our one defeat taught us valuable lessons about handling pressure, and we've grown stronger because of it. TG20 has been a fantastic platform for players at every stage of their careers, and it's only going to raise the standard of cricket in Telangana. We're excited for the final and ready to give it everything. Beyond the contest for the title, the season has underscored the growing depth of talent within Hyderabad cricket, with the Sreenidhi University TG20 giving local players a platform to showcase their game on a competitive stage. From emerging batters and bowlers making a mark against experienced campaigners to young talents, the league has continued to widen the pool of cricketers coming through the city's grassroots system, reinforcing the Hyderabad Cricket Association's efforts to build a strong pipeline of talent for the future. Speaking on the occasion, Agam Rao, Chairman of the TG20 Governing Council, said, The inaugural Hyderabad Cricket Association's Sreenidhi University TG20 has exceeded all expectations. Beyond the thrilling cricket, the tournament has created a genuine pathway for talented players from across Telangana to showcase their abilities on a grand stage. As we prepare to crown our first-ever champions, we are proud of the foundation this league has laid for the future of cricket in the state, and we are committed to making it even bigger and better in the years ahead. From emerging batters and bowlers making a mark against experienced campaigners to young talents, the league has continued to widen the pool of cricketers coming through the city's grassroots system, reinforcing the Hyderabad Cricket Association's efforts to build a strong pipeline of talent for the future. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The champions of the inaugural edition of the TG20 will be crowned with a cash prize of INR 1 crore, while the runners-up will take home INR 50 lakh. The teams finishing third and fourth will each receive INR 25 lakh. Article Source: IANS
5th T20I: Buttler Smashes 131, Brook Hits 95* As England Post 257/3 Against Listless India
The Rose Bowl: Wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler was at his vintage best to hammer a sensational 131 while Harry Brook smashed a blistering unbeaten 95 as England delivered a batting masterclass to post a mammoth 257/3 against India in the fifth and final T20I at a sun-baked The Rose Bowl in Southampton on Saturday. Skipper Shreyas Iyers decision to bowl first backfired hugely as Buttler played with angles well and was at his free-flowing best to hit 12 fours and eight sixes at a strike-rate of 204.69. Brook, despite falling five runs short of his second T20I century, hit four fours and eight sixes in a breath-taking knock, as the duo shared a majestic 233-run stand off 102 balls. The duos clean hitting meant Indias bowlers were absolutely listless, while their fielding was terrible. Opting to bowl first, India tasted early success when pacer Prasidh Krishna removed opener Phil Salt (6) in the second over, having him caught by deep backward square leg. However, that remained India's only joy for a major part of the innings as Buttler and Brook decimated the bowling attack with an electrifying partnership. Brook was the initial aggressor, reaching a fiery half-century off just 19 deliveries, clubbing the Indian pacers and spinners alike. At the other end, Buttler started comparatively slower but shifted gears seamlessly after crossing his fifty. Indias woes were compounded by a dismal fielding display, dropping multiple regulation catches, including giving a reprieve to Buttler off Axar Patel in the 16th over and dropping Brook twice on three (by Shivam Dube) and 90 (by Ishan Kishan). Capitalising on the errors, Buttler brought up a magnificent century off 52 balls with a pulled six off Axar. The England captain was eventually dismissed by Dube in the 19th over after he completely miscued it to mid-off. Dube picked up Jacob Bethell for a duck on the next delivery, but Will Jacks and Brook ensured England crossed the 250-mark. For India, Dube ended with figures of 2-22, while Axar leaked 63 runs in his four overs the most expensive spell hes ever bowled in T20 cricket. Indias woes were compounded by a dismal fielding display, dropping multiple regulation catches, including giving a reprieve to Buttler off Axar Patel in the 16th over and dropping Brook twice on three (by Shivam Dube) and 90 (by Ishan Kishan). Capitalising on the errors, Buttler brought up a magnificent century off 52 balls with a pulled six off Axar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England 257/3 in 20 overs (Jos Buttler 131, Harry Brook 95 not out; Shivam Dube 2-22, Prasidh Krishna 1-38) against India Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Mandhana, Shafali Take India To 30/0 At Tea, Extend Lead To 145
Smriti Mandhana: India tightened their hold on the one-off women's Test at Lord's by moving to 30 without loss at tea on Day 2, extending their overall lead to 145 runs after Kranti Gaud's superb five-wicket haul had earlier dismissed England for 170 and secured a valuable 115-run first-innings advantage for the visitors. Having wrapped up England's innings shortly after lunch, India were left with the task of negotiating a potentially tricky period against the new ball. England's pace attack, which had struggled for consistency in the first innings, began with far better discipline this time. Lauren Bell and Lauren Filer bowled probing spells with two slips and a gully in place, extracting enough movement to test both openers. Bell set the tone by delivering a maiden over to Smriti Mandhana, repeatedly drawing the left-hander into cautious defence. Filer also found seam movement and bounce, beating the bat on occasions, while wicketkeeper Amy Jones' fumble behind the stumps gifted India their first run through byes. Despite the early pressure, neither Mandhana nor Shafali Verma looked flustered, trusting their defence before waiting for scoring opportunities. Mandhana was the first to break the shackles. After patiently leaving deliveries outside off and seeing off the new-ball threat, she capitalised on anything fractionally short from Filer. Two authoritative pull shots, both dispatched to the square-leg boundary, brought her innings to life and eased the pressure that England had built during the opening exchanges. At the other end, Shafali also settled in after a cautious beginning. She opened her account with a tuck behind square before producing a beautifully timed late drive through the covers off Bell for her first boundary. Her positive intent became even more evident when Sophie Ecclestone was introduced into the attack. Facing England's premier spinner for the first time in the innings, Shafali wasted little time asserting herself. She lofted Ecclestone confidently down the ground for four before following it up with a delightful inside-out drive through extra cover that showcased both confidence and timing. Ecclestone's over also included a wayward delivery down the leg side that raced away for four byes, making it an expensive start for the left-arm spinner as India collected 13 runs from the over. The fluent strokeplay from both openers ensured India entered the tea break without suffering a setback, frustrating England's hopes of making immediate inroads after their batting collapse. With the pitch still playing well for batting and both openers looking increasingly comfortable, India are firmly in command and will look to bat England out of the contest in the final session and beyond. Facing England's premier spinner for the first time in the innings, Shafali wasted little time asserting herself. She lofted Ecclestone confidently down the ground for four before following it up with a delightful inside-out drive through extra cover that showcased both confidence and timing. Ecclestone's over also included a wayward delivery down the leg side that raced away for four byes, making it an expensive start for the left-arm spinner as India collected 13 runs from the over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 285 & 30/0 (Smriti Mandhana 10*, Shafali Verma 14*) lead England 170 all out in 59.1 overs (Amy Jones 52, Nat Sciver-Brunt 44; Kranti Gaud 5/37, Sayali Satghare 2/40, Sneh Rana 2/41, Deepti Sharma 1/10) by 145 runs. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Krantis Maiden Five-fer Gives India A 115-run 1st Innings Lead As England Fold For 170
Although Sneh Rana: Kranti Gaud produced a career-defining spell to claim her maiden five-wicket haul in Test cricket as India bowled England out for 170 on the second day of the One-off women's Test at Lord's, earning a commanding 115-run first-innings lead. The 22-year-old seamer spearheaded a disciplined bowling effort, while the spinners cleaned up the tail, leaving India firmly in control of the historic contest. England resumed the post-lunch session with captain Nat Sciver-Brunt holding the key after an assured resistance through the morning. However, Harmanpreet Kaur's decision to bring Gaud back into the attack proved decisive. After surviving an inside edge earlier in the over, Sciver-Brunt was trapped plumb in front by a sharp inswinger. The England skipper reviewed immediately, but ball-tracking showed three reds, ending her determined knock of 44 from 85 deliveries that included four boundaries and a six. With England's last recognised batter back in the pavilion, India tightened their grip. Sayali Satghare produced the next breakthrough by luring Sophie Ecclestone into an expansive drive. Having begun her over with a crisp cover-driven boundary, Ecclestone edged another drive behind, where Yastika Bhatia completed a neat low catch. Sneh Rana then struck with a classical off-spinner's dismissal. Flighting the ball above Mady Villiers' eyeline, she tempted the batter into a drive before the delivery dipped, gripped, and turned sharply to crash into the stumps. Villiers departed for 10 as England slipped deeper into trouble. Gaud returned to complete a memorable spell. Lauren Bell was subjected to a relentless examination outside off stump before eventually edging a fuller delivery towards the slips. Although Sneh Rana could not hold on at second slip, Shafali Verma reacted brilliantly at first slip, diving to her right to complete a stunning one-handed catch and hand Gaud her maiden Test five-wicket haul. The performance also made Gaud the youngest Indian woman fast bowler to register a five-for in Test cricket, surpassing Jhulan Goswami's previous record. Issy Wong briefly frustrated India with a patient stay and even collected a boundary off Gaud, but there was little resistance left. Deepti Sharma wrapped up the innings when Lauren Filer was trapped lbw. Filer reviewed in hope, but the decision stood on the umpire's call, bringing England's innings to a close on 170 in 59.1 overs. Gaud finished with exceptional figures of 5 for 37, while Satghare claimed 2 for 40, Sneh Rana returned 2 for 41, and Deepti Sharma chipped in with 1 for 10. Sciver-Brunt's fighting 44 was the only significant contribution as England lost wickets steadily after lunch and fell well short of India's first-innings total of 285. Armed with a substantial 115-run first-innings lead, India headed into their second innings in complete control, with Gaud's landmark five-for standing out as the defining performance of England's collapse. Gaud finished with exceptional figures of 5 for 37, while Satghare claimed 2 for 40, Sneh Rana returned 2 for 41, and Deepti Sharma chipped in with 1 for 10. Sciver-Brunt's fighting 44 was the only significant contribution as England lost wickets steadily after lunch and fell well short of India's first-innings total of 285. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 285 all out in 74.5 overs (Smriti Mandhana 83, Harmanpreet Kaur 58, Deepti Sharma 57; Sophie Ecclestone 3/68, Lauren Filer 2-40, Issy Wong 2-41) lead England 170 all out in 59.1 overs (Amy Jones 52, Nat Sciver-Brunt 44; Kranti Gaud 5/37, Sayali Satghare 2/40, Sneh Rana 2/41, Deepti Sharma 1/10) by 115 runs. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan fielding coach Shane McDermott quits
He was scheduled to be part of the support staff for Asian Games but no reason for his resignation has yet been made public
Djokovic down but not-out, vows to carry on
5th T20I: Samson, Shedge Come In As India Elect To Bowl First Against England
The Rose Bowl: India have brought back Sanju Samson and Suryansh Shedge as India won the toss and elected to bowl first against England in the fifth and final T20I at The Rose Bowl on Saturday. The toss was delayed by 45 minutes due to the Indian team arriving late at the stadium after being stuck in traffic. England have already won the series via an unassailable 3-0 lead, and another victory over India will help them seal a clean sweep victory, as well as become the new top-ranked team in mens T20Is. India, meanwhile, will look to salvage some pride and conclude a difficult T20I leg on a high before heading into the three-match ODI series against England, starting on July 14 in Birmingham. After winning the toss, skipper Shreyas Iyer, whos won every coin flip so far on this tour, said Samson and Shedge have replaced Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Washington Sundar in the playing eleven. Today, based on the conditions, it's windy, and we had a chat before, and they said the wicket won't change that much, so we've elected to bowl first. I just want to give 100 per cent effort today, irrespective of the result. I just want them to have a solid state of mind where they go in and just try to get the best out of themselves, rather than sulking or being in a situation where they're a bit ahead of the game. Be in the moment and just stop thinking about what's happened and what could happen. England captain Harry Brook said left-arm spinner Liam Dawson has replaced leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed in their playing eleven. Wed have had a bat, so were pretty happy. If we win today, we go to world No 1, so thats at the back of our minds. But, as weve done all series, we want to adapt to the surface and communicate well. Playing XIs: England captain Harry Brook said left-arm spinner Liam Dawson has replaced leg-spinner Rehan Ahmed in their playing eleven. Wed have had a bat, so were pretty happy. If we win today, we go to world No 1, so thats at the back of our minds. But, as weve done all series, we want to adapt to the surface and communicate well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England: Philip Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Harry Brook (captain), Jacob Bethell, Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Liam Dawson, Jofra Archer, Adil Rashid, and Josh Tongue Article Source: IANS
The Hundred: Manchester Super Giants Appoint Kane Williamson As Batting Coach
Manchester Super Giants: New Zealand great Kane Williamson, who recently announced his retirement from international cricket, will now step into a coaching role as the Manchester Super Giants have named him their batting coach for the upcoming mens edition of The Hundred. Charisma. Coolness. Kane. Delighted to have Kane Williamson at Manchester Super Giants as the mens team batting coach ahead of the upcoming #TheHundred campaign, the franchise wrote on X while making the announcement. Williamson was part of the Super Giants family in the Indian Premier League (IPL) during the tournaments recently concluded 19th edition, serving as the Lucknow Super Giants strategic advisor. He has not participated in the IPL for Lucknow, which is coached by former Australia opener Justin Langer, but he played in the league for 10 seasons. Williamson, 35, played for Durban Super Giants, part of the same ownership group as Manchester, in this year's SA20. Having scored more than 18,000 international runs, including over 9,000 in red-ball cricket for New Zealand, the veteran cricketer is preparing to publish his autobiography later this year. Williamson, 35, played for Durban Super Giants, part of the same ownership group as Manchester, in this year's SA20. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This book is really about that journey. I certainly wasnt responsible for it on my own, but it taught me a great deal about leadership, teamwork, and the pursuit of improvement. Hopefully, theres something in it that resonates with others, too. BARE MARGINS will be out in November, the veteran wrote on Instagram while making the announcement. Article Source: IANS
Toss for fifth T20I delayed as Indian team gets stuck in traffic
India arrived at around 2.05pm, five minutes after the scheduled toss time
Mady Villiers: England off-spinner Mady Villiers said dismissing India captain Harmanpreet Kaur with a ball that spun through the gate was the perfect reward on an unforgettable Test debut, as she reflected on her breakthrough performance ahead of day two of the one-off women's Test against India at Lord's on Saturday. Villiers, one of two England debutants in the historic first-ever women's Test at Lord's, played a pivotal role in the hosts' fightback on the opening day by removing Harmanpreet at the stroke of tea, helping shift the momentum after India had looked set for a much bigger first-innings total. Looking back at the dismissal, the off-spinner described it as the ideal wicket for someone in her role. Yeah, it is a dream off-spinner's wicket, isn't it, really? Up the slope as well. I think on day one, you don't really think that the ball will do that. But yeah, it was a dream. And I thought, why not give it a chance to get through the gate? It was a dream, Villiers said. The wicket capped an emotional return to the England setup for Villiers, who admitted that a Test debut had once seemed an unlikely prospect after spending time away from the national side. I didn't ever really think that it was an option for me. I feel like getting introduced quite young into the side and then sort of having a few years out, it's been a whirlwind. But yeah, as I said, I didn't think I was going to come, but when that call did come, I was over the moon and, yeah, really, really pleased with how it went, she added. Villiers also credited her move from Essex to Durham as a turning point in her development, saying the decision to leave her long-time home county challenged her to grow both as a cricketer and as a person. I think it's very quickly become my new home, and it's a place that you can go and feel welcome, not just the cricket but in general. It's a brilliant part of the world. And yeah, like I've said before, I never imagined leaving Essex. It was a really tough decision, like my whole family's down there. I've played cricket there my whole life. And speaking to Danny Hazel, Marcus North, and Holly as well, I think it was an offer that I couldn't really say no to. And I didn't want there to be any question marks around my game. Being at Essex was very comfortable for me. I knew my role there, I knew everything about the place, to be honest. And I just wanted to challenge myself a bit, play under different leaders, and be around different players. That only brings the best out in yourself. And I thought, why not just bite the bullet and make the move? It wasn't an easy one at all. I was in floods of tears when I told the Essex girls that I was going. And yeah, but it's nice that it's paid off and it's been a good move, she stated. With England possessing a strong spin department, Villiers acknowledged that cementing a regular place in the side remains a significant challenge despite an encouraging start to her Test career. And I didn't want there to be any question marks around my game. Being at Essex was very comfortable for me. I knew my role there, I knew everything about the place, to be honest. And I just wanted to challenge myself a bit, play under different leaders, and be around different players. That only brings the best out in yourself. And I thought, why not just bite the bullet and make the move? It wasn't an easy one at all. I was in floods of tears when I told the Essex girls that I was going. And yeah, but it's nice that it's paid off and it's been a good move, she stated. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Villiers' breakthrough came at a crucial stage of the innings, as England fought back after India had reached 190/3. The hosts eventually bowled India out for 285. Article Source: IANS
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Shivamogga Yodhas To Face Bengaluru Blasters In The Final
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Shivamogga Yodhas stormed into the final of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 tournament following a comprehensive four-wicket victory over the Coastal Kings Mangaluru at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Saturday. A four-wicket haul from Dhanush Gowda and two-wicket hauls from Shreesha Achar and Naveen MG restricted the Coastal Kings Mangaluru to 143/8 before Aneesh KVs 55* off 39 composed half-century, aided by a vital contribution from Sujay Sateri (31 off 25), took the Yodhas home. In the second innings, Santok Singhs double blow gave the Coastal Kings a promising start. Singh accounted for Luvnith Sisodia (14 off 13) and Tushar Singh (14 off 10) while Prithviraj dismissed Naveen MG to leave the Yodhas at 41-3 inside five overs. It was Aneesh KV who steadied the innings with a match-winning knock, cracking regular boundaries to stay ahead of the required run-rate. He combined with Harshil Dharmani (13 off 14) for 31 runs before Prithviraj struck again to remove Dharmani in the 10th over. Sujay Sateri joined Aneesh at the crease just as the latter began to assert himself. Aneesh went from 20 runs in 21 deliveries to bring up a 31-ball half-century. The pairs 70-run stand in 47 balls was enough to steer the Yodhas to victory in 18.4 overs. Dhanush Gowda was lethal in the first innings, ensuring the Coastal Kings suffered a setback every time they built a significant partnership. Dhanush Gowda first removed Pavan Prajwal (8 off 11) to break the opening stand of 35 runs. Opener Nikin Jose (34 off 25) had anchored the innings but was castled by Shreesha Achar in the eighth over. Karun Nair (41 off 31) played a measured knock studded with a four and three sixes to take the Coastal Kings through the middle overs. In the biggest partnership of the innings, Shreyas Gopal (13 off 16) put on 39 runs with Nair before he became Achar's second wicket of the day. At the 15-over mark, Coastal Kings Mangaluru were 109-4 but quickly slumped to 123-8 in the 18th over as Dhanush Gowda returned to remove Karun Nair, Suraj Ahuja (9 off 10), and Rajvir Wadhwa (9 off 5) in quick succession. Prithviraj Shekhawat (12 off 10) contributed important runs late in the innings to help the Kings post a competitive total. Opener Nikin Jose (34 off 25) had anchored the innings but was castled by Shreesha Achar in the eighth over. Karun Nair (41 off 31) played a measured knock studded with a four and three sixes to take the Coastal Kings through the middle overs. In the biggest partnership of the innings, Shreyas Gopal (13 off 16) put on 39 runs with Nair before he became Achar's second wicket of the day. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shivamogga Yodhas 144/6 in 18.4 overs (Aneesh KV 55 not out, Sujay S 31; Santokh Singh 3-30) beat Coastal Kings Mangaluru 143/8 in 20 overs (Karun Nair 41, Nikin Jose 34; Dhanush Gowda 4-21, Shreesha Achar 2-19, Naveen MG 2-25) by 4 wickets. Article Source: IANS
One-off Test: Kranti, Sayali Strike Early, Rana Breaks Stand As England Reach 137/5 At Lunch
Kranti Goud: India struck four times in a sensational opening session through medium-pacer Kranti Gaud and Sayali Satghare before Sneh Rana dismissed Amy Jones on the stroke of lunch to leave England at 137/5 in 40 overs, still trailing by 148 runs, on the second day of the one-off Women's Test at Lord's on Saturday. order inside the opening half hour and firmly seize control before England captain Nat Sciver-Brunt and Amy Jones engineered a spirited recovery. Gaud, who had dismissed Tammy Beaumont late on the opening evening, wasted little time in adding to her tally. Operating with excellent control from the Nursery End, she induced an outside edge from the overnight-set Maia Bouchier, who was caught behind by Richa Ghosh after making 23. The dismissal ended a cautious 30-run second-wicket partnership and handed India the breakthrough they desperately sought. Sayali Satghare then joined the act in the very next over. Heather Knight, who had survived an lbw scare on the opening day, could not escape this time as Satghare produced a delivery that jagged back sharply from a good length to trap the former England captain plumb in front. Knight reviewed immediately, but ball-tracking showed the delivery clipping the leg stump, reducing England to 38/3. England's hopes of rebuilding suffered another setback when debutant Alice Capsey briefly looked positive before Gaud produced the morning's delivery. After consistently shaping the ball into the right-hander, Gaud surprised Capsey with one that held its line before moving away just enough to beat the outside edge and crash into the off stump. The superb piece of seam bowling left England reeling at 47/4 inside the opening 18 overs. With four wickets down and still facing a substantial first-innings deficit, England desperately needed resistance from their experienced pair of Sciver-Brunt and Jones. The duo responded with positive intent, refusing to allow India's bowlers to dictate terms entirely. Jones counterattacked whenever the bowlers erred in length, driving confidently through the off side and pulling anything short, while Sciver-Brunt gradually settled before unfurling her trademark sweep shots against the spinners. Their partnership gathered momentum after the drinks break, bringing up fifty together as England crossed the 100-run mark. India introduced spin early through Sneh Rana, Deepti Sharma, and Test debutant N Sree Charani, who consistently challenged both batters with attacking fields featuring close-in catchers. Rana repeatedly beat Sciver-Brunt with a sharp turn outside off, while Charani mixed flight and pace effectively despite Jones capitalising on a few overpitched deliveries. Jones reached a well-compiled half-century off just 59 deliveries, becoming one of England Women's quickest Test fifty-makers. She celebrated the milestone with a raised bat to warm applause from the Lord's crowd after guiding England out of immediate danger alongside her captain. Sciver-Brunt also shifted gears after settling in, launching Charani over deep midwicket for the first six of England's innings before confidently rotating the strike. Together, the pair added 84 valuable runs for the fifth wicket and significantly reduced India's early advantage. However, India ensured they finished the session on top. Just four deliveries before lunch, Rana produced the breakthrough by extracting turn and bounce from a teasing length. Jones, rooted to the crease while attempting a defensive stroke, inside-edged onto her pad, with the ball looping gently to Richa Ghosh at short leg, who completed a straightforward catch to end an enterprising knock of 52 off 62 balls. Nat Sciver-Brunt remained unbeaten on 39 at the interval, while debutant Mady Villiers survived the closing overs to guide England safely to lunch. Despite the valuable fifth-wicket stand, England still face a sizeable deficit and will rely heavily on their captain and lower order to narrow India's first-innings lead in the afternoon session. However, India ensured they finished the session on top. Just four deliveries before lunch, Rana produced the breakthrough by extracting turn and bounce from a teasing length. Jones, rooted to the crease while attempting a defensive stroke, inside-edged onto her pad, with the ball looping gently to Richa Ghosh at short leg, who completed a straightforward catch to end an enterprising knock of 52 off 62 balls. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 285 all out in 74.5 overs (Smriti Mandhana 83, Harmanpreet Kaur 58, Deepti Sharma 57; Sophie Ecclestone 3-68, Issy Wong 2-41) lead England 137/5 in 40 overs (Amy Jones 52, Nat Sciver-Brunt 39 not out; Kranti Gaud 3-25, Sneh Rana 1-35) by 148 runs. Article Source: IANS
Madhevere and Evans fifties take Zimbabwe to 199
Shoriful Islam (4 for 44) and Taskin Ahmed (2 for 32) were the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers
Rohit Sharma Never Threw Anyone Under The Bus; He Always Took Responsibility: Nayar
T20 World Cup: Former India assistant coach Abhishek Nayar has lauded Rohit Sharma's leadership during some of the team's most difficult moments, saying the India captain's willingness to shoulder responsibility and his ability to build trust through honest communication helped hold the dressing room together after painful defeats. Reflecting on his time with the national side, Nayar recalled how Rohit's empathy, accountability, and player-first approach eased pressure on teammates and fostered confidence, even when results did not go India's way. He also said that one of Rohit's defining qualities as captain was his instinct to protect the dressing room after defeats, choosing to absorb criticism himself rather than shift blame onto individuals. We had Rohit Sharma as captain, and I remember him coming out after the Mumbai Test and saying in the press conference, 'It's okay. We've won so many series, we've lost this one, and I'll take responsibility for it.' That's who Rohit was. There was always that side of him that could lighten the mood and make sure the team was okay, Nayar told JioStar. Of course, whenever India loses, it hurts everyone. But the one thing he did exceptionally well was look after his players. He would think about who had been affected the most, who hadn't scored runs, and how he could make them feel better. The quality I admired most about Rohit was that he always took responsibility. He would never come out and blame anyone by saying, 'You did this' or 'You did that.' Instead, he would put his hand up and say, 'I failed.' You would never hear him making excuses or throwing someone under the bus, he added. According to Nayar, Rohit's influence extended well beyond tactical decisions on the field. He credited the skipper's direct communication and genuine concern for his teammates as the foundation of the trust he enjoyed within the dressing room. Of course, whenever India loses, it hurts everyone. But the one thing he did exceptionally well was look after his players. He would think about who had been affected the most, who hadn't scored runs, and how he could make them feel better. The quality I admired most about Rohit was that he always took responsibility. He would never come out and blame anyone by saying, 'You did this' or 'You did that.' Instead, he would put his hand up and say, 'I failed.' You would never hear him making excuses or throwing someone under the bus, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score They'll tell you that even when he scolded them, they took it seriously because they knew it came from a place of trust and genuine care. As a captain, his communication was exceptional. Sanju Samson spoke about it too after he was left out of the T20 World Cup final in Barbados. Even though Sanju wasn't playing, Rohit made sure he spoke to him before the toss because he was concerned about how he was feeling. Those difficult phases were a little easier because Rohit Sharma was around, Nayar stated. Article Source: IANS
Alcarazs drop shot reminds me of my short-arm jab: Gill
The India skipper also backed Sinner to emerge champion at the All England Club
'Most Alarming Aspect Has Been Fielding,' Says Parthiv On India's Consecutive T20I Series Loss
Parthiv Patel: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Parthiv Patel has called India's fielding the most alarming concern following the Men in Blue's 2-0 T20I series defeat to Ireland and the recent surrender to England, saying repeated lapses in catching have become a worrying trend across all levels of Indian cricket. Reflecting on the disappointing result, Parthiv also urged the selectors to identify specialist T20 bowlers instead of relying on familiar names, while expressing hope that Tilak Varma rediscovers his form to bring greater balance to India's batting line-up. Parthiv said India's shortcomings against Ireland extended beyond the final scoreline, pointing to missed opportunities in the field that proved decisive in both matches. The result was a bit surprising and shocking. You can't expect to beat Ireland after playing poor cricket. Over the last two to two-and-a-half years, the most alarming aspect of Indian cricket has been fielding, across the men's team, the women's team and even junior cricket. Even in the Ireland series, had those two or three catches been taken in the first game, they wouldn't have scored over 180. The same thing happened in the second game. This is definitely an area India needs to address because they're dropping catches at crucial moments, Parthiv told JioStar. Beyond fielding, the former India stumper questioned the team's approach towards building a bowling attack in the shortest format, arguing that India should begin grooming bowlers specifically suited to T20 cricket rather than depending on established all-format names. Secondly, just as we have T20 specialists in batting, why don't we look for the same in bowling? We always think, 'Bumrah will come back and do the job.' Then we keep going back to the likes of Prasidh Krishna. We also have bowlers like Prince Yadav and Mohsin Khan, so we need to start looking at T20 specialist bowlers as well, he stated. Beyond fielding, the former India stumper questioned the team's approach towards building a bowling attack in the shortest format, arguing that India should begin grooming bowlers specifically suited to T20 cricket rather than depending on established all-format names. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'm just hoping we don't see another vice-captain get dropped. The kind of batting line-up we have can't work in the long term. If six of your top seven batters are left-handers, that batting order won't work. Changes have to be made somewhere. Now, who comes into the side and which right-hander gets backed, I don't know. That's why Tilak Varma needs to score runs, Parthiv added. Article Source: IANS
WI vs NZ 1st ODI: Preview, Predicted XIs, Player Tips & Match Prediction
WI vs NZ 1st ODI, Cricket Tips :West Indies are ready to host New Zealand for the five-match ODI series in July. The first ODI of the series will begin at 12 AM IST on Sunday at Providence Stadium in Guyana. Shai Hope is back leading the hosts, and they are coming off a test series win over Sri Lanka. On the other hand, New Zealand will be led by Mitchell Santner. They recently beat England in the historic test series win. Both teams are in search of the right combination as teams are preparing for the ICC ODI World Cup 2027 in South Africa next year. WI vs NZ: Match Details Date : July 12, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 12:00 AM IST Venue : Providence Stadium, Guyana WI vs NZ: Live Streaming Details In India, fans can watch the live action of the West Indies vs New Zealand ODIs on the FanCode streaming platform. WI vs NZ: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches : 68 West Indies : 31 New Zealand : 30 No-result : 07 WI vs NZ: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at Providence Stadium is slow and low. It does not have much bounce, and the wicket is on the slower side. Spinners will have a big role here as the ball grips the surface more. The toss will be crucial here, as chasing will be difficult. WI vs NZ: Possible XIs West Indies: Shai Hope (c & wk), Keacy Carty, John Campbell, Ackeem Auguste, Justin Greaves, Sherfane Rutherford, Gudakesh Motie, Roston Chase, Alzarri Joseph, Jayden Seales, Shamar Joseph Sri Lanka: Will Young, Tom Latham (wk), Henry Nicholls, Daryl Mitchell, Mark Chapman, Michael Bracewell, Mitch Santner (c), Nathan Smith, Jacob Duffy, Ben Lister, Matthew Fisher WI vs NZ: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shai Hope and Daryl Mitchell are two in-form batters, and they will be the ones to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Jayden Seales has been the go-to ODI bowler for West Indies, who takes the wickets up front. Jacob Duffy is the power play specialist for New Zealand, and he can swing the ball at a good pace. Today Match Prediction: West Indies have the home conditions on their side, but New Zealand are the superior side in both departments. Hence, we predict New Zealand to win this game. WI vs NZ Match 1st ODI, Today Match WI vs NZ, WI vs NZ Prediction, WI vs NZ Predicted XIs, Injury Update for West Indies vs New Zealand Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
West Indies desperate for ODI upswing with World Cup qualification on the line
For New Zealand, meanwhile, this series offers a chance to get back to winning ways after a defeat to Bangladesh in their last ODI assignment
Hes Going To Be The Main Man: Santner Backs Duffy To Lead Pace Attack Against West Indies
Royal Challengers Bengaluru: New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner has backed Jacob Duffy to step up as the 'main man' of the Black Caps pace attack during the upcoming five-match ODI series against the West Indies, saying the experienced seamer has earned the opportunity to lead a youthful bowling group. With first-choice quicks Matt Henry, Will ORourke and Kyle Jamieson rested following recent Test commitments and Ben Sears ruled out through injury, Duffy will enter the series as New Zealands senior pace option. Weve obviously seen how good he is for the last few years. He's taken his opportunities, but now hes the front man in this bowling unit. There are a couple of younger guys around him, so hes going to be the main man here, Santner said ahead of the match. The 31-year-old returns to the ODI squad after missing New Zealands Test tour of England on paternity leave. The tourists pace attack for the series also includes Nathan Smith, Kristian Clarke, uncapped Matt Fisher and Ben Lister, who was called into the squad as Sears replacement. Duffy last featured for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League, where he claimed nine wickets in six matches. He also enjoyed a remarkable 2025 in international cricket, breaking New Zealand great Richard Hadlees record for the most wickets in a calendar year with 81 scalps. In ODIs, Duffy has taken 35 wickets at an average of 24.25, with his last appearance in the format coming against the West Indies in November 2025. With five ODIs scheduled in a short period and the Caribbean conditions expected to test the bowlers, Santner said workload management would be crucial throughout the series. In ODIs, Duffy has taken 35 wickets at an average of 24.25, with his last appearance in the format coming against the West Indies in November 2025. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand will play the opening three ODIs at Providence Stadium in Guyana on July 11, 13 and 15 before travelling to Barbados for the final two matches at Kensington Oval on July 19 and 21. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh bowl; Raza leads Zimbabwe in Ngarava's absence
Bangladesh left out fast bowler Nahid Rana and legspinner Rishad Hossain while Zimbabwe rested Blessing Muzarabani and Newman Nyamhuri
Holder, Russell bowl LAKR to thrilling win over Unicorns
LAKR overcame Hammad's late blitz to edge Unicorns in a high-scoring contest
New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher: Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the enduring sporting relationship between India and New Zealand after attending a Sporting Showcase with New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon, describing sport as a powerful bridge connecting the two countries. Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, Sports have always been a strong bridge between India and New Zealand. This year, we are also marking a century of vibrant sporting ties. In Auckland, PM Luxon and I attended a Sporting Showcase, where we saw a range of cutting-edge sporting innovations. It was wonderful to see how technology and creativity are shaping the future of sports while bringing our two nations even closer. PM Modis Sporting Showcase was part of his wider effort to embed international sporting partnerships, coming days after he attended an event celebrating India-Australia sporting ties at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG). Joined by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan, Modi interacted with young athletes playing exhibition matches of cricket, kabaddi and Australian rules football. It also attracted Australian sporting greats including Steve Waugh and Lisa Sthalekar. The visit also saw PM Modi and Albanese jointly inaugurating the India-Australia Sports Collaboration Roadmap, underscoring sports, cultural exchanges and people-to-people ties as key pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries. Joined by Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese and Victoria Premier Jacinta Allan, Modi interacted with young athletes playing exhibition matches of cricket, kabaddi and Australian rules football. It also attracted Australian sporting greats including Steve Waugh and Lisa Sthalekar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Pointing to the next decade, PM Modi said India would host the 2030 Commonwealth Games and Australia the 2032 Brisbane Olympics, adding the next decade presents natural opportunities for closer bilateral collaboration across sport and related industries. Article Source: IANS
'Some Rallies Never End': Sachin Tendulkar Pens Note To Roger Federer After Wimbledon Reunion
All England Club: India batting legend Sachin Tendulkar penned a heartfelt message for Roger Federer after the two sporting icons reunited at Wimbledon. Tendulkar wrote on X, Some rallies never end. Our friendship is one of them. Always a pleasure spending time with you, Roger. Until we meet again. It was another memorable visit to SW19 for the legendary batter as he was part of the list of elite guests who watched the proceedings from the hallowed Royal Box in Friday's semi-final tie where Germany's Alexander Zverev crushed Britain's Arthur Fery in straight sets to enter his maiden Wimbledon final. Also part of the high-profile gathering was India captain Shubman Gill who, for the first time in his life, got a chance to witness a Wimbledon tie from the Royal Box. He will also resume his cricketing commitments with India's ODI series against England later this month. However, it was Tendulkar's interaction with Lara which revived memories of one of cricket's greatest rivalries. While they were opponents once, both of them have turned out to be teammates for each other in exhibitions and charity matches. The skipper of India for the tour of England Gill also seemed to be in high spirits, taking time out from international cricket duties to soak in the atmosphere at the Centre Court. Apart from them, the list also featured Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk and Leeds United chairman Paraag Marathe, who were a part of a star-studded list that included sportspersons from different walks of life. However, it was Tendulkar's interaction with Lara which revived memories of one of cricket's greatest rivalries. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The second seed delivered a strong performance on Centre Court, quieting the home crowd after overcoming a tough challenge in the opening set from 23-year-old Fery. Zverev, who won his first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros last month, has now reached his fifth major final and his first at Wimbledon. This victory extends his winning streak at Grand Slams to 13 matches. Article Source: IANS
Deepti Sharma Hails India's Top Order After Gritty Fifty Puts Visitors In Control At Lord's
Deepti Sharma: India all-rounder Deepti Sharma credited the team's top-order batters for laying the perfect foundation after her fighting half-century guided the visitors to a competitive 285 on the opening day of the historic first-ever women's Test at Lord's on Friday. Smriti Mandhana (83 not out), Harmanpreet Kaur (58) and Deepti (57) guided India through some middle order trouble as they recovered to post 350-6 before striking early with the ball when Kranti Gaud sent Tammy Beaumont back for 11 with the score at 21-1. The left-handed all-rounder attributed the key partnerships to the solid foundation laid by the top-order. It feels good that I was able to do this partnership at a crucial time. All credit goes to our 3-4 batters who gave a good start. Jemi, Harry di (Harmanpreet) and Smriti. They built the innings very well, Deepti was quoted by ICC as saying. The all-rounder also highlighted the challenging nature of the pitch, which offers turn and inconsistent bounce. The wicket is slightly turning and sometimes keeping low. The wicket is not the same. We have to be prepared when the ball can bounce and when it can stay low. Tomorrow (Day 2) will be a very important day for us. Mandhana drew praise from Deepti, who held the innings together in a precarious position. I think she batted really well. Sometimes it happens. Few players got out early and sometimes had to take that responsibility. I think she showed her character today. From there, she started her innings. India's bowlers can be buoyed by the way the pitch behaved late on Day 1, and Deepti reckons they can make the most of it if they maintain their discipline. We will focus more on our bowling strength. Like today's wicket, we were getting a slight turn. But sometimes, the ball was bouncing. It will help us tomorrow. But we have to focus on our right areas. We have to continue to bowl back-to-back. Playing at Lord's for the first time in a Women's Test match is a proud moment for the players and Deepti spoke of how the women's game has evolved in recent years. Tests are always special. It is an amazing feeling to play cricket. Women's cricket has grown a lot in the last 4-5 years. It will help us tomorrow. But we have to focus on our right areas. We have to continue to bowl back-to-back. Playing at Lord's for the first time in a Women's Test match is a proud moment for the players and Deepti spoke of how the women's game has evolved in recent years. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We want to continue that for the next generation. England will start Day 2 on 21-1, still 264 runs behind India's first innings total. Article Source: IANS
Tajinder, Pollard lead MI New York to come-from-behind win over Seattle Orcas
Stoinis' five-for and Seifert's 81 went in vain as Orcas collapsed dramatically
Livingstone, Stanley keep Yorkshire waiting on Blast qualification
James Anderson wins mini-duel with Joe Root as Lancashire maintain own hopes of progression
Wong refuses to allow England to fester in short Lord's turnaround
Fast bowler revels in return to red-ball cricket on historic day at Lord's
Yates, Mousley propel Bears to victory, end Glamorgan prospects
Jimmy Neesham fails to defend 13 off final over as Welsh county's quarter-final hopes snuffed out
Tom Moores fifty ensures Notts claim home quarter-final
Outlaws restrict Leicestershire to 143 for 7 before cruising to eighth win in a row
All-round Critchley show keeps Essex's last-eight hopes alive
Victory secured with four overs to spare against South Group frontrunners
Colin Ackermann 69 gives Durham knockout lifeline
Five-run win over Derbyshire keeps home side in contention for last eight
Will Smeed, Thomas Rew fire Somerset quarter-final hopes
Northamptonshire heavily beaten despite Lewis McManus half-century
Roy, Clark star as Surrey demolish Kent
Home side blown away for 102 with only four batters reaching double-figures
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Bengaluru Blasters Beat Coastal Kings Mangaluru To Enter Final
Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Bengaluru Blasters booked their place in the final of the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 tournament after defeating Coastal Kings Mangaluru by 12 runs in Qualifier 1 at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on Friday. After slipping to 52/5 inside eight overs, the Blasters recovered spectacularly through an unbeaten 133-run partnership between captain Shubhang Hegde and Praveen Dubey to post 185/5. Samit Dravid then led the defence with figures of 3-30 as the Coastal Kings finished on 173/6 despite a spirited late fightback. Put into bat, the Blasters were rocked early as Vasuki Koushik and Santokh Singh reduced them to 52/5 in the eighth over. Koushik removed Bhuvan Raju and Shivraj S, while Santokh accounted for Rohan Patil and Wahid Faizan Khan, to leave the league leaders in deep trouble. With the innings in the balance, Hegde and Dubey rebuilt patiently before accelerating through the back end. The pair added 133 unbeaten runs for the sixth wicket off just 74 deliveries, including 78 runs in the final five overs, to wrest back control of the contest. Dubey was the aggressor during the stand, bringing up his second half-century of the tournament on his way to an unbeaten 69 off 38 deliveries, studded with six fours and two sixes. Hegde anchored the partnership with an unbeaten 65 off 52 balls, striking two fours and three sixes as the Blasters posted a competitive 185/5. Chasing 186, Coastal Kings lost both Aadharsh Prajwal and captain Karun Nair inside the power-play. Samit Dravid struck first to remove Aadharsh, while Vidwath Kaverappa dismissed the dangerous Karun Nair for two, leaving the Kings at 23/2. Nikin Jose and Prajwal Pavan steadied the innings with a 50-run partnership for the third wicket before Dravid returned to dismiss Jose for a well-made 45, reducing the Kings to 88/4. Siddharth Akhil and Suraj Ahuja kept the chase alive with a brisk 64-run stand for the fifth wicket. Akhil struck 37 off 24 balls with two fours and three sixes, while Ahuja remained unbeaten on 52 off 29 deliveries, hitting six fours and two sixes. However, with 34 required off the final two overs, Dubey delivered the decisive breakthrough by dismissing Dheeraj Gowda in the 19th over. Despite Ahuja's unbeaten half-century, the target proved too steep. The defeat means Coastal Kings Mangaluru will face Shivamogga Yodhas in Qualifier 2 on Saturday for the remaining place in the final. However, with 34 required off the final two overs, Dubey delivered the decisive breakthrough by dismissing Dheeraj Gowda in the 19th over. Despite Ahuja's unbeaten half-century, the target proved too steep. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bengaluru Blasters 185/5 in 20 overs (Shubhang Hegde 65 not out, Praveen Dubey 69 not out; Vasuki Koushik 2-26, Santokh Singh 2-45) beat Coastal Kings Mangaluru 173/6 in 20 overs (Nikin Jose 45, Siddharth Akhil 37; Suraj Ahuja 52 not out, Samit Dravid 3-30) by 12 runs. Article Source: IANS
Sinner bulldozes Djokovic; Zverev blows Fery away
The defending champion and World No. 1 beats the seven-time winner for a second straight time at Wimbledon while the German enters his maiden final at the All England Club
Hughes hundred tips balance in basement battle
Sussex hand out thrashing against fellow South Group strugglers
Wimbledon: Shubman Gill Joins Anjali & Sachin Tendulkar In Royal Box At Centre Court
All England Lawn Tennis: India's current Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill joined cricket legend Sachin Tendulkar in the Royal Box at the Centre Court at Wimbledon to watch the two men's singles semifinals at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in London on Friday. Tendulkar and Gill were among the celebrities who visited Wimbledon on Friday, and both were welcomed by the Club. Tendulkar was accompanied by his wife, Anjali. A picture of Gill with Anjali and Sachin Tendulkar sitting in the Royal Box was posted by the India Test and ODI captain via his official handle on X, which went viral, causing a lot of excitement among netizens as Gill is reported to be dating Tendulkar's daughter Sara. Earlier, the official handle of Wimbledon on X posted a photograph of Tendulkar watching the match from the Royal Box on Friday, rejoicing that the cricket royalty was spotted among the celebrities in the box. Cricket royalty returns to the Royal Box. Welcome back to Wimbledon, Sachin Tendulkar, said the official handle of Wimbledon in its post on X, formerly Twitter. Gill is the fourth Indian captain to receive an invitation to watch Wimbledon from the Royal Box, after Tendulkar, Virat Kohli, and Rohit Sharma. He is also the fourth Indian cricketer to visit the hallowed grass courts of SW18 in 2026, joining the likes of Shikhar Dhawan, Deepti Sharma, and Sachin Tendulkar. Another former cricket star, Brian Lara of the West Indies, was also in the Royal Box, an area reserved for special guests invited by the All England Club. Both Gill and Tendulkar met many international celebrities during their time in the Royal Box. Gill met the Fashion ICON, Anna Wintour! Another former cricket star, Brian Lara of the West Indies, was also in the Royal Box, an area reserved for special guests invited by the All England Club. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On Friday, Jannik Sinner defeated Novak Djokovic in the second semifinal to set up a summit clash with Alexander Zverev, who ended the dream run of British wildcard Arthur Fery. Article Source: IANS
ENG vs IND 5th T20I Prediction: Can Shreyas Iyer's India Stay Alive Against England?
ENG vs IND 5th T20I,CricketTips :Another game, another humiliation, and another defeat for Shreyas Iyer as new T20I captain. Nothing has gone in favor of India since they have landed for the UK tour. They lost to Ireland for the first time; now they have also lost the first bilateral T20I series to England, with one match left to play. Will India leave the UK without wining a single T20I? The fifth and final game will be held at the Rose Bowl in Southampton on Saturday at 7 PM IST. India have been below standard. because of poor form and combination. They will be desperately looking for a win. England have won the series, but a win on Saturday will take them to no. 1 T20I rankings. ENG vs IND: Match Details Date : July 11, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 7:00 PM IST Venue : The Rose Bowl, Southampton ENG vs IND: Live Streaming Details The live telecast of the fifth T20I will be televised on the Star Sports networks. Indian fans can also watch the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. ENG vs IND: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 34 India : 18 England : 15 No-result : 01 ENG vs IND: Ground Pitch Report The Rose Bowl offers a balanced surface, which has good bounce and pace. The new ball will move and swing for the fast bowlers, and the spinners will get some grip. But as the game goes forward, the wicket will settle down and will become good for batting. ENG vs IND: Possible XIs England : Phil Salt, Jos Buttler (wk), Jacob Bethell, Harry Brook (c), Tom Banton, Sam Curran, Will Jacks, Jofra Archer, Liam Dawson, Adil Rashid, Josh Tongue India : Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, Ishan Kishan (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Prince Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna ENG vs IND: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shreyas Iyer has been the lone warrior for India in two games and is someone who has shown better application on these tough pitches. For England, captain Harry Brook has been the standout batter, who has won two games with the bat. Probable Best Bowler Arshdeep Singh is the only bowler who has shown better performance with the new ball. For England, Jofra Archer is making the difference with the new ball and has been impactful. Today Match Prediction : India are playing poor cricket. But England are on the top of their form. Hence, we predict England to win the fifth T20I. ENG vs IND Match 5th T20, Today Match ENG vs IND, ENG vs IND Prediction, ENG vs IND Predicted XIs, Injury Update for England vs India Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
ZIM vs BAN 3rd ODI Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
ZIM vs BAN 3rd ODI , Cricket Tips :After some good performances at home, Bangladesh found it difficult to get going in the away conditions. Their tour to Zimbabwe has not been against their expectations. They have lost the one-off Test and then the ODI series with one game left to play. The third ODI between Zimbabwe and Bangladesh will be played on Saturday. This contest will be held at Harare Sports Club at 1 PM IST. Bangladesh have bowled well in both ODIs, but their batting has failed to deliver under pressure. On the other hand, Richard Ngarava has been superb as captain, and he will aim to record a 3-0 clean sweep. ZIM vs BAN: Match Details Date : July 11, 2026 (Saturday) Time : 1:00 PM IST Venue : Harare Sports Club, Harare ZIM vs BAN: Live Streaming Details The live stream of the third ODI between Zimbabwe and Bangladesh will be available on the FanCode mobile app or website. ZIM vs BAN: Head-to-Head in ODIs Total Matches: 83 Zimbabwe : 31 Bangladesh : 51 No-result: 00 ZIM vs BAN: Ground Pitch Report Harare Sports Club has been a tough wicket to bat on. The slow wicket offers uneven bounce, which has a lot of assistance for spinners. Fast bowlers will get seam and swing with the new ball. Early on, the batting conditions will be better, but it will be tough to bat in the second innings. ZIM vs BAN: Possible XIs Zimbabwe : Innocent Kaia, Ben Curran, Brian Bennett, Craig Ervine, Sikandar Raza, Wessly Madhevere, Clive Madande (wk), Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Richard Ngarava (c), Blessing Muzarabani Bangladesh : Tanzid Hasan, Najmul Hossain Shanto, Soumya Sarkar, Towhid Hridoy, Nurul Hasan (wk), Mosaddek Hossain, Mehidy Hasan (c), Rishad Hossain, Taskin Ahmed, Nahid Rana, Shoriful Islam ZIM vs BAN: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Ben Curran slammed a century in the last game and is the in-form batter for his team. For Bangladesh, Towhid Hridoy has been pretty good in Zimbabwe and is a key batter. Probable Best Bowler Nahid Rana and Blessing Muzarabani are two strike bowlers for these teams, and they have shown good form. Today Match Prediction: Zimbabwe have been brilliant in this series. Hence, we predict Zimbabwe to win the final ODI. ZIM vs BAN Match 3rd ODI, Today Match ZIM vs BAN, ZIM vs BAN Prediction, ZIM vs BAN Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Zimbabwe vs Bangladesh Match Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
But Maia Bouchier: An absorbing and highly competitive opening day of cricketing action unfolded in the first-ever historic Women's Test at Lord's on Friday, leaving the match beautifully poised at stumps with England reaching 21/1 and trailing by 264 runs after bowling out India for 285, especially when they were cruising at 190/3. Sophie Ecclestone and Mady Villiers ran through the middle order after Smriti Mandhana top-scored with 83 in what was also her 300th international appearance. In the process of picking a three-for, Sophie also became Englands highest wickettaker across formats, going past Katherine Sciver-Brunt, and climbed to third overall behind Deepti Sharma and Jhulan Goswami. Englands reply began shakily with Tammy Beaumont, whos playing her farewell international game, falling for two in the fourth over. But Maia Bouchier (17 not out) and Heather Knight (one not out) steadied the innings till stumps were called on the opening day. Sneh Rana found turn in her solitary over late in the evening, a sign that Indias spinners could have plenty to work with on day two. In what is also the first-ever womens Test to be played at the iconic venue, England picked up three crucial wickets in an action-packed first session. Opting to bowl first, England found immediate movement off the ball via Lauren Bell. India suffered an early blow in the second over when opener Shafali Verma was completely squared up by a sharp, short-of-length delivery from Lauren Filer and nicked behind to wicketkeeper Amy Jones for a duck. Yastika Bhatia (12) joined Smriti and started confidently with a flurry of boundaries, while also surviving a close leg-before-wicket review on umpire's call off Bell. However, Bell redeemed herself soon after, cleaning up Yastika with a brilliant inswinger that nipped away to hit the off-stump. Jemimah Rodrigues then partnered with Mandhana to steady the innings, capitalising heavily on a wayward English bowling display that lacked discipline. Smriti looked in sublime touch, punishing the loose balls and welcoming premier spinner Ecclestone into the attack with a massive slog-sweep over midwicket for six to close out the first hour. Smriti then brought up a sparkling run-a-ball half-century off just 50 deliveries in the 16th over and got the distinction of getting the first-ever Womens Test fifty at Lords. The dangerous 64-run third-wicket partnership was eventually broken against the run of play when Jemimah (35) chopped onto her stumps while going for an expansive drive against Issy Wong. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur (14 not out) then joined Smriti to safely navigate the remaining overs, ensuring India walked into the lunch break as the happier side. While the first session majorly belonged to India, England's bowlers roared back into the contest in the post-lunch session by showing discipline in their bowling and picking up the crucial wickets of set batters Smriti and Harmanpreet, who compiled 58. Resuming from 122/3 in 25 overs, Smriti and Harmanpreet frustrated the hosts by taking India past the 150-run mark. Smriti was in splendid touch, using her feet elegantly against Sophie and executing crisp pulls off the fast bowlers. At the other end, Harmanpreet battled intensely through physical discomfort and needed continuous medical attention from the team physio for troubles in her hand and hamstring. Scoring mainly through the off-side, Harmanpreet reached her second Test half-century off 99 balls with a drive off Mady. However, Englands persistence soon broke the 79-run stand off 155 balls against the run of play. Issy, operating with supreme control, induced a faint outside edge from Smriti, as she fell 17 short of a historic century after being caught neatly behind by a diving Amy Jones standing up to the stumps. England also burned two unsuccessful reviews during the session - one for a caught-behind off Smriti and another off Deepti. Just as the session seemed to be closing out evenly, Mady tossed one up beautifully outside off, and lured Harmanpreet into an expansive drive before turning sharply through the gate to castle the skipper and give England more delight at the stroke of tea break. The final session saw India suffer a spectacular slide by losing their last seven wickets for just 95 runs to end 15 runs short of 300, as Sophie and Mady shared five scalps between themselves. Resuming the post-tea session from 202/5, India desperately needed stability. However, the visitors suffered an early setback when aggressive wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh (13) was cramped by pacer Lauren Filer and top-edged a short delivery straight to fine leg. Deepti, who played a gritty 57 off 87 balls, laced with seven boundaries, tried to courageously hold the innings together. She employed the sweep shot to fantastic effect against the spinners and brought up a well-deserved half-century off 70 balls. Unfortunately, she completely lacked support from the lower order. Mady continued her highly impressive debut by trapping Sneh (13) plumb lbw and breaking a brief period of resistance. Sophie then took complete charge by cleaning up the tail with ruthless efficiency. She trapped Sayali (1) lbw, before ending Deeptis valiant knock, as she was caught by mid-wicket. Sophie ultimately wrapped up the innings by castling Kranti (1) and getting a glowing reception from 10,768 fans at Lords, as she walked off the field as Englands all-time leading wicket-taker across all formats. After bowling out India for 285, Maia and Tammy faced a testing 11-over spell from the Indian new-ball bowlers. Sayali Satghare opened the attack for India, starting with a no-ball, but quickly adjusted her line to test Maia with subtle away movement. The breakthrough came in the fourth over when Kranti delivered a superb, incoming back-of-a-length delivery that kept low. Tammy (2) was caught completely in the crease and trapped plumb in front. The veteran chose not to review, though it was eventually hit by the stumps via the umpires call. Kranti nearly handed India a massive second breakthrough in the eighth over when she hit Heather Knight on the pads. The vociferous appeal was turned down by the umpire, and India decided against using the Decision Review System (DRS). However, replays later confirmed the ball would have crashed into the leg stump, handing Heather a major reprieve. Maia, meanwhile, held her ground watchfully and broke the shackles in the ninth over, dispatching a rare loose delivery from Sayali through mid-wicket for the first boundary of the innings. Harmanpreet introduced spin in the penultimate over through Sneh Rana, who bowled a tidy maiden over. In the final over of the day, Maia capitalised on a stray delivery from Kranti by clipping through fine leg to finish unbeaten on 17 alongside Heather, whos unconquered on one. Maia, meanwhile, held her ground watchfully and broke the shackles in the ninth over, dispatching a rare loose delivery from Sayali through mid-wicket for the first boundary of the innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 285 all out in 74.5 overs (Smriti Mandhana 83, Harmanpreet Kaur 58; Sophie Ecclestone 3-68, Issy Wong 2-41) lead England 21/1 in 11 overs (Maia Bouchier 17 not out; Kranti Gaud 1-8) by 264 runs Article Source: IANS
Mandhana, Harmanpreet fifties but England restrict India to 285 on historic opening day
Playing a women's Test at Lord's for the first time, England lost Tammy Beaumont in their batting response before stumps
Bulbulia 98 sets up South Africa U19s before late strikes with ball
England U19s slip to 13 for 2 before close after dismissing visitors for 295 on day one at Beckenham
One-off Test: Gaud Removes Beaumont As England Reach 21/1, Trail India By 264 Runs
Decision Review System: Medium-pacer Kranti Gaud struck an early blow to dismiss veteran opener Tammy Beaumont, whos playing her final international game. But a resilient England managed to reach 21/1 in 11 overs at stumps and trail India by 264 runs on a highly competitive day one of the historic first-ever women's Test at Lord's on Friday. After bowling out India for 285, England openers Maia Bouchier and Beaumont faced a testing 11-over spell from the Indian new-ball bowlers. Sayali Satghare opened the attack for India, starting with a no-ball, but quickly adjusted her line to test Maia with subtle away-movement. The breakthrough came in the fourth over when Kranti delivered a superb, incoming back-of-a-length delivery that kept low. Tammy (2) was caught completely in the crease and trapped plumb in front. The veteran chose not to review, though it was eventually hitting stumps via the umpires call. Kranti nearly handed India a massive second breakthrough in the eighth over when she hit Heather Knight on the pads. The vociferous appeal was turned down by the umpire, and India decided against using the Decision Review System (DRS). However, replays later confirmed the ball would have crashed into the leg stump, handing Heather a major reprieve. Maia, meanwhile, held her ground watchfully and broke the shackles in the ninth over, dispatching a rare loose delivery from Sayali through mid-wicket for the first boundary of the innings. Harmanpreet Kaur introduced spin in the penultimate over through Sneh Rana, who bowled a tidy, maiden over. In the final over of the day, Maia capitalised on a stray delivery from Kranti by clipping through fine leg to finish unbeaten on 17 alongside Heather, whos unconquered on one. Maia, meanwhile, held her ground watchfully and broke the shackles in the ninth over, dispatching a rare loose delivery from Sayali through mid-wicket for the first boundary of the innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 285 all out in 74.5 overs (Smriti Mandhana 83, Harmanpreet Kaur 58; Sophie Ecclestone 3-68, Issy Wong 2-41) lead England 21/1 in 11 overs (Maia Bouchier 17 not out; Kranti Gaud 1-8) by 264 runs Article Source: IANS
Campbell's super knock powers Yorkshire to Roses win
Opener hits 64 off 42 to set up comfortable win over Lancashire
TG20 Season 1: Hyderabad E-Champions Set Up Summit Clash With Khammam Aces
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: Hyderabad E-Champions returned to winning ways, delivering a clinical performance to register a commanding 8-wicket win over EIPL & eleve Karimnagar Diamonds in Qualifier 2 of the Hyderabad Cricket Association's TG20 Season 1 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad on Friday. Hyderabad E-Champions will face Anvita Khammam Aces in the grand finale of the TG20 on Sunday. Having lost to the Aces in Qualifier 1, E-Champions will be motivated to get their revenge in the summit clash. Skipper Abhirath Reddy led the way with another glorious knock, scoring 82 off 49 balls, including seven fours and five sixes to become the first batter to score 500 runs in the season. In the first innings, E-Champions bowlers were precise in executing their plans with Purple Cap holder Ajay Dev Goud (2/24), Shanmukha Ashwin (2/24), and Pranav Varma (2/32) each bagging a brace to restrict Diamonds to a modest 157/7 in 20 overs. Opting to bat first in this must-win contest, Diamonds had a sedate start to their innings with Satwik Reddy and Tanmay Agarwal (10 off 10) being watchful in their approach. They scored 20 in the first three overs before Shanmukha Ashwin dealt a significant blow as he bagged the prized scalp of Tanmay. Hrishikesh Simha and Satwik added some impetus to the innings, smashing three sixes against Yashveer Goud to score 21 runs in the final over of the powerplay to propel their side to 50/1. The pair rotated strike actively while also finding the occasional boundary to add 40 runs in 23 balls. Akhil Rathod broke the partnership for E-Champions, dismissing Satwik for 28 off 21 balls. Entering a tricky situation at No.4, Rahul Radesh (28 off 15) got into the act immediately, finding boundaries with regularity to ensure that the scoring rate doesnt drop significantly for Diamonds. He added 40 off 26 balls alongside Simha, who was given a lifeline after being dropped on 29 by Abhirath Reddy in the tenth over. In an attempt to up the ante, Rahuls cameo came to an abrupt end as he was bowled by Shanmukha in the 12th over. E-Champions began to tighten the screws thereafter, conceding only 12 runs in 14 balls. Pranav Varma then delivered twin strikes in the 15th over, ending Simhas resistance after a 31-ball 38 and also cleaned up Chandan Sahani (7 off 10) to have the Diamonds reeling at 119/5. E-Champions bowlers were exceptional in their execution in the latter half of the innings, ensuring no boundaries were conceded in 48 deliveries. Shubham Sharma finally broke the shackles for his side, smacking consecutive sixes against Dev Mehta in the penultimate over to help them get past 150. Purple Cap holder Ajay Dev Goud closed out the innings efficiently for E-Champions, only allowing seven runs of the final over and bagging two wickets to restrict Diamonds to 157/7. In response, Abhirath and Sai Vikas Reddy ensured a steady start for the E-Champions, getting their eye in at 9/0 after two overs. They scored 17 runs off Rathlavath Dinesh in the following over and never looked back. The pair added 56 runs in the Power-play as they continued to put the Diamonds bowlers under pressure. They went about their business rather clinically from thereon, scoring 58 runs in the next five overs to wipe away a chunk of the target. Abhirath put on a show, displaying why hes regarded as one of the best batters in the tournament. He amassed his half-century in 32 balls, regaining the Orange Cap in the process. Sai Vikas also switched gears effortlessly after playing second fiddle for most of the chase as the two openers posted the second-highest opening stand of the tournament (124 runs). Sai Vikas missed out on his half-century as Shubham ended his 31-ball 45-run knock. Abhirath was also dismissed by Akhil Kumar in the 15th over. However, the damage had already been done. Vaishav Reddy (25 off 12) and Yashveer Goud (4 off 1) sealed the deal for E-Champions with 27 balls to spare. Sai Vikas also switched gears effortlessly after playing second fiddle for most of the chase as the two openers posted the second-highest opening stand of the tournament (124 runs). Sai Vikas missed out on his half-century as Shubham ended his 31-ball 45-run knock. Abhirath was also dismissed by Akhil Kumar in the 15th over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Karimnagar Diamonds 157/7 in 20 overs (Hrishikesh Simha 38, Shubham Sharma 31, Shanmukha Ashwin 2/22, Ajay Dev Goud 2/24) lost to Hyderabad E-Champions 160/2 in 16.3 overs (Abhirath Reddy 82, Sai Vikas Reddy 45, Akhil Kumar 1/23, 1/41) by 8 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Matthews, Grimmond put on West Indies' biggest partnership to crush Ireland
The opening duo added 258 off 225 as West Indies completed their highest successful ODI chase
Hampshire secure top spot as Adams stars with bat and ball again
Captain hits 53 after taking 2 for 21 as Warwickshire fall to ninth defeat in 12 group games
One-off Test: Ecclestone Picks Three-for As England Bowl Out India For 285
Sophie Ecclestone: A dramatic batting collapse in the final session saw India being bowled out for 285 in 74.5 overs on the opening day of their historic one-off Test match against England at Lord's in London on Friday. Cruising at 190/3 at one stage, the visitors suffered a spectacular slide and lost their last seven wickets for just 95 runs to end 15 runs short of 300. Englands relentless spinners, Sophie Ecclestone and debutant Mady Villiers, orchestrated the spectacular turnaround by sharing five crucial wickets between themselves. With her 3-68, Sophie also became England's all-time leading wicket-taker across all formats, a record previously held by Katherine Sciver-Brunt. Resuming the post-tea session from 202/5, India desperately needed stability. However, the visitors suffered an early setback when aggressive wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh (13) was cramped by pacer Lauren Filer and top-edged a short delivery straight to fine leg. All-rounder Deepti Sharma, who played a gritty knock of 57 off 87 balls, studded with seven boundaries, tried to courageously hold the innings together. She employed the sweep shot to fantastic effect against the spinners and brought up a well-deserved half-century off 70 balls. Unfortunately, she completely lacked support from the lower order. Mady continued her highly impressive debut by trapping Sneh Rana (13) plumb lbw and breaking a brief period of resistance. Sophie then took complete charge by cleaning up the tail with ruthless efficiency. She trapped Sayali Satghare (1) LBW before ending Deeptis valiant knock, as she was caught by mid-wicket. Sophie ultimately wrapped up the innings by castling Kranti Gaud (1) and getting a glowing reception from 10,768 fans at Lords, as she walked off the field as Englands all-time leading wicket-taker across all formats. While three Indian batters registered half-centuries Smriti Mandhana top-scored with 83 - their disappointing lower-order capitulation leaves the hosts extremely poised to conclude an intensely thrilling opening day on a high with the bat. Sophie ultimately wrapped up the innings by castling Kranti Gaud (1) and getting a glowing reception from 10,768 fans at Lords, as she walked off the field as Englands all-time leading wicket-taker across all formats. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India 285 all out in 74.5 overs (Smriti Mandhana 83, Harmanpreet Kaur 58; Sophie Ecclestone 3-68, Issy Wong 2-41) against England Article Source: IANS
Grace Scrivens 85 sets up Essex for victory over Durham
Captain combines in 94-run opening stand with Anneke Bosch to set visitors on their way
Is Brook ready to lead England across all three formats?
England don't have many options as a long-term replacement for Stokes but turning Brook risks spreading him too thin
Knott downs Somerset to seal Blaze's spot at Finals Day
Somerset's Charlie Dean top-scores with 41 and takes 3 for 24 but finds little support
Little to separate Muchova and Noskova in race to win first Grand Slam title
