1st Test: Renshaw leads Australia as SA face tough chase
Australia extended their lead over South Africa to 280 runs by lunch on the fourth day of the first test, reaching 174-4. Despite losing four key wickets, including Travis Head, Nic Maddinson, Steve Smith, and Marnus Labuschagne, Australia is aiming for a declaration after pushing their lead past 350 to give themselves enough time to bowl out South Africa.
R Ashwin's Brutally Honest Take On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi vs Sanju Samson Battle
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi continues to warm the bench for India in T20Is, as Abhishek Sharma and Sanju Samson are preferred.
Not Accurate: BCCI Denies Reports Of India vs Sri Lanka ODI Venue Shift From Delhi To Ahmedabad
The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Secretary Devajit Saikia dismissed reports claiming that the opening ODI between India and Sri Lanka, scheduled for December 13 in Delhi, had been shifted to Ahmedabad amid concerns over ongoing construction work at the Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Reports Suggesting India-Sri Lanka ODI Shifting From New Delhi To Ahmedabad Inaccurate: Saikia
BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia: BCCI Secretary Devajit Saikia on Monday denied reports claiming that the first ODI between India and Sri Lanka, originally scheduled to be held in the national capital on December 13, has been moved to Ahmedabad. The clarification comes amid reports regarding the non-availability of the Arun Jaitley Stadium, where the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) is currently undertaking major infrastructure overhauls, including the installation of a modern drainage system along with the relaying of pitches and outfield. Reports suggesting that the IndiaSri Lanka ODI match scheduled in Delhi may be shifted to Ahmedabad are not accurate. There has been no such decision (taken) by the BCCI. We request media colleagues to kindly refer to official BCCI communications for any updates regarding the schedule. Further, it needs to be reiterated that bilateral matches are primarily allotted by following a standard policy, said Saikia in a statement on Monday. IANS had previously reported on September 25 that the major overhaul of the drainage system at the stadium had led to Delhis home games in Elite Group C of the Ranji Trophy 2026/27 being shifted to the Air Force Ground in Palam. Interestingly, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is already scheduled to host the third India-Sri Lanka ODI on December 19, after the second game takes place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on December 16. The ODI matches are of immense importance to India, the two-time champions, in terms of building up and fine-tuning their combinations for the 2027 Mens ODI World Cup, to be played in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia. Interestingly, the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad is already scheduled to host the third India-Sri Lanka ODI on December 19, after the second game takes place at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru on December 16. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Watched Virat Kohli On YouTube: Australia A Star's Secret To Dominating India A
Nathan McSweeney says observing and learning from Virat Kohli's handling of spinners through Youtube videos was one of the major reasons why he succeeded in the just-concluded three-match one-day series against India A.
England Fast Bowler Lauren Bell Returns To Sydney Thunder For Full WBBL Season 12
Big Bash League: England fast bowler Lauren Bell has signed up with Sydney Thunder for the upcoming season of the Womens Big Bash League (WBLL). It will also mark Laurens second stint in the premier womens franchise T20 tournament. Lauren, who sits in the top five of the ICC T20I bowling rankings, will be available for the entire duration of the tournament, joining her former England captain Heather Knight in the Thunder setup. Lauren, who has taken 88 matches across all formats for England, arrives on the back of impressive global performances, including a seven-wicket haul in the 2026 T20 World Cup, a stellar 19-wicket campaign for Southern Brave in The Hundred, and a 12-wicket season with Womens Premier League (WPL) 2026 winners Royal Challengers Bengaluru. I love Sydney, I love the group and weve got some exciting new additions since I was last here so I cant wait to get going with the girls. The WBBL has the best talent in the world, and as a cricketer thats how I believe I will get better... playing and challenging myself against the best in the world. Ive obviously played against Phoebe (Litchfield) many times and we seem to have pretty good battles but it will be nice to have her on my side now and watch her score runs. Volly (Georgia Voll) is super fun and talented and I was lucky enough to play with her in India and I cant wait to do it again in Sydney, she said in a statement by the franchise on Monday. Reflecting on her growth since her previous stint with the franchise in WBBL season nine, Lauren added, Playing for England has certainly helped me understand my own game and my experience within cricket has grown since I was last with Thunder. I hope I can bring that winning mentality to this group. Welcoming the star bowler back into the squad, Sydney Thunder head coach Lisa Keightley praised Laurens versatility and wicket-taking ability across different phases of the game. Lauren is a world-class bowler and someone were really excited to have back at the Thunder this season. Weve seen what she can do at the highest level. She has the ability to take wickets with the new ball, but what really stands out is how she can impact a game at different stages of an innings. She brings a lot of experience to our group, but shes also still only 25 and continuing to develop her game. Welcoming the star bowler back into the squad, Sydney Thunder head coach Lisa Keightley praised Laurens versatility and wicket-taking ability across different phases of the game. Lauren is a world-class bowler and someone were really excited to have back at the Thunder this season. Weve seen what she can do at the highest level. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
How Arshdeep and Co. stopped Hope after Ranchi blitz
India secured a 14-run victory against West Indies in the third T20 International, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Pacer Arshdeep Singh was instrumental, claiming three wickets and executing a clear plan to contain key West Indies batters like Shai Hope and Sherfane Rutherford. Arshdeep also highlighted the relaxed team atmosphere and his desire to contribute with the bat.
Is Vaibhav Sooryvanshi's exclusion from India's T20I squad justified? Former cricketer opines
The stage is set for the fourth T20I of the ongoing series between India and the West Indies. The two sides are slated to meet at the Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium in Hyderabad for the...
How Virat Kohli's videos helped Australia's McSweeney
Australia 'A' batter Nathan McSweeney attributed his success in the recent one-day series against India A to studying Virat Kohli's technique against spinners on YouTube. McSweeney was named player of the series after scoring 194 runs, helping Australia A win the series 2-1. He highlighted the importance of adapting to Indian conditions and executing strategies learned from top players.
Will Delhi lose India-Sri Lanka ODI? BCCI responds
BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia has denied reports claiming the opening ODI between India and Sri Lanka, scheduled for December 13, has been moved from Delhi to Ahmedabad. Saikia confirmed that Delhi remains the venue as per standard policy, refuting suggestions of a shift due to construction work at Arun Jaitley Stadium.
We Had Planned How To Keep Things Tight To Hope: Arshdeep
Arshdeep Singh: Indias left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh said he felt really good over the successful execution of tactics to remove West Indies captain Shai Hope early in the third T20I against the West Indies, adding that getting rid of a quality batter of his calibre required meticulous preparation and inputs from the coaching staff. At the Holkar Stadium on Sunday night, Arshdeep made the early breakthrough by castling the in-form Shai Hope, who went for a wild slog, in the second over. The contest stayed alive till the dangerous Sherfane Rutherford was at the crease. But Arshdeep castled him, and took out Keemo Paul as well to ensure the contest ended in Indias favour, as they won by 14 runs and grabbed a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Before the match, we had planned how to keep things tight to him and when you execute that plan in the match, it feels good when you get the result. I am grateful to the coaches for working through the plan and they told me that I can use this in the match and that thing got executed, Arshdeep said in a video posted on bcci.tv. on Monday. He also credited the entire bowling attack for applying sustained pressure while defending a big total of 223. I bowled very well. Mayank kept the pressure from the other end and all the six bowlers, all chipped in and bowled very well. It feels good when you get a little pressure for executing plans. So, it's good fun. Arshdeep, who also hit a useful boundary with the bat, offered a light-hearted apology to teammate Axar Patel after a mid-pitch mix-up led to the left-arm spin bowling all-rounder's run-out. I would like to apologize to Axar bhai. Sorry, Axar bhai. I got you run out. Revealing about his personal drive to contribute with the bat, Arshdeep said, I keep trying in batting. The results are rare. But today, it just connected well. As much as the coaches trust us, we have to do it in batting as well and get a few runs down the order. So it is important to work like this in batting. Arshdeep also attributed his steady evolution at the international level to the welcoming culture inside the Indian team and the desire to improve his skillsets. In the dressing room, the environment is very chill. There is no one who behaves as if they have played more or less matches. The atmosphere is very chill. Revealing about his personal drive to contribute with the bat, Arshdeep said, I keep trying in batting. The results are rare. But today, it just connected well. As much as the coaches trust us, we have to do it in batting as well and get a few runs down the order. So it is important to work like this in batting. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Dinesh Karthik heaped praise on star opener Abhishek Sharma for consistently churning out runs in different conditions and against different bowling attacks.
Pakistan Cricket Board Shifts Presidents Trophy Matches Amid Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Emergency
Amid political turmoil over Pakistan's federal government's announcement of an emergency in Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-led Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
There Is Nothing Better, Says Naman Dhir After 3rd T20I Heroics
Naman Dhir has explained how reading a batter's intentions helps him make decisions with the ball, after his two-wicket contribution proved crucial in India's 14-run victory over the West Indies
IND vs WI 3rd T20I: India Deserved This Win From A Bowling Perspective, Says Ian Bishop
Former West Indies: Former West Indies pacer Ian Bishop praised Indias bowling execution and Abhishek Sharmas tactical awareness after the hosts secured a 14-run victory over West Indies in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Sunday, taking a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Bishop highlighted Indias use of yorkers and wide lines, with Arshdeep Singh leading the attack and Naman Dhir providing valuable support. He also pointed to the absence of dew as a factor that helped the bowlers execute their plans. First of all, congratulations to India. The West Indies found a little bit of range with the ball after about over number eight through Roston Chase, then Springer, then Motie, but those runs at the back end by Prince Yadav proved crucial. Then we saw the yorkers. Shreyas Iyer mentioned at the toss that he brought Prince Yadav back into the team for the first time in the series so they could get guys bowling those yorkers and wide lines, and those are critical plans. Arshdeep is the leader of the attack, and he sussed things out quite quickly, with a little bit of help from Naman Dhir. A critical factor, obviously, was that there was no dew formation. All in all, its good to see the bowlers having a better day in a batsman-dominated series so far. The West Indies will look to do a few things better next time, but take nothing away from India; they deserved this win from a bowling perspective, Bishop told JioStar. Bishop also singled out Abhishek Sharma for adapting his approach against West Indies spinner Roston Chase. Rather than attacking immediately, the Indian opener took time to assess the conditions and read the bowler before adjusting his shot selection to exploit gaps in the field. It was not only about the respect that Roston Chase deserved after dismissing Abhishek a couple of times earlier in the series, but also the fact that Abhishek needed to get himself in, take a few balls to get a feel for what Roston was doing and understand the conditions. We live and play in an era where we talk a lot about going hard up front from very early on, especially when youre batting first. Bishop also singled out Abhishek Sharma for adapting his approach against West Indies spinner Roston Chase. Rather than attacking immediately, the Indian opener took time to assess the conditions and read the bowler before adjusting his shot selection to exploit gaps in the field. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sunil Gavaskar Unhappy As BCCI Decision Sees Ranji Trophy Being Ignored Yet Again
The 1983 World Cup winner Sunil Gavaskar is not really fond of India A matches being held alongside Ranji Trophy.
New Delhi: Former Indian cricketer Dinesh Karthik heaped praise on star opener Abhishek Sharma for consistently churning out runs in different conditions and against different bowling attacks as he has blossomed into a world superpower opener. Abhishek smashed 69 from 30 balls during the third T20I against the West Indies on Sunday at the Holkar Stadium, Indore, to lay the foundation for India making 223 in the end. During the outing, he also completed his 2000 T20I runs and became the fastest batter to get to the milestone in terms of balls taken. Abhishek, who has been guided by legendary Yuvraj Singh, has runs across nations and across opponents, making him a batter which the teams target early. Speaking on Abhishek's rise, Karthik praised the consistency of the batter and hailed him for becoming a 'world superpower opener'. He's guided by someone who's shown for a long, long time how efficient you can be, even though he's someone who is so good with striking a cricket ball. Abhishek Sharma is learning from the best, and you can see how he's able to pace in innings, Karthik said on Crucbuzz, referring to Abhishek learning from Yuvraj. He knows the powerplay is an area where you need to try and hit as many boundaries as possible. And he's found a method in which he's able to be successful. And across pitches, across destinations in the world, he's able to go out there and constantly put the bowlers under pressure. Now, when you see somebody like Abhishek Sharma walking in as a team, you fear it, you know, that's the wicket we need early. Because if you don't get that early, it's going for runs. So I've enjoyed how he's blossomed into this world superpower as an opener, Karthik added. The former India cricketer and RCB batting coach highlighted that the opener is able to get runs against big opponents and in big matches consistently, which has made him to be rated among the best. But what is even more rewarding for someone like Abhishek Sharma is the fact that he's able to churn those runs against big opposition, big games and also bring consistency to it, which is probably the toughest aspect up until now for good T20 cricketers: how do you bring that attacking instinct out there every day, but also be willing to take risks and almost score every two or three games. And he's doing it. That's why he's rated as one of the best players in the world, he said. Karthik also highlighted that Abhishek took his time against off-spinner Roston Chase earlier in the innings before going all guns blazing. He is quite the destructive batter. But what he's also added is a little bit of nous. If you see the way he played Roston Chase, the name that you just said, first couple of balls, he just knocked it and just tried to say, okay, what's the pitch doing? And then he went bang bang. But what is even more rewarding for someone like Abhishek Sharma is the fact that he's able to churn those runs against big opposition, big games and also bring consistency to it, which is probably the toughest aspect up until now for good T20 cricketers: how do you bring that attacking instinct out there every day, but also be willing to take risks and almost score every two or three games. And he's doing it. That's why he's rated as one of the best players in the world, he said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Dinesh Karthik breaks down Nitish Kumar Reddy's role in the Indian team after third T20I victory
Team India registered a brilliant victory as they defeated the West Indies in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides met in Indore for the clash on October 11, and the Men...
'They stifled us': Springer on India's 14-run win
West Indies all-rounder Shamar Springer discussed his team's Plan B to contain India's Abhishek Sharma, who scored a rapid 69 runs, leading India to a 14-run victory in the third T20I. Springer acknowledged Sharma's world-class performance and the difficulty of bowling on good wickets. He also reflected on the West Indies' chase, noting missed opportunities and the impact of the pitch conditions, while praising Roston Chase's underrated bowling.
Lack Of Dew And Indian Bowlers Execution Made The Difference In Indore, Says Shamar Springer
West Indies: West Indies all-rounder Shamar Springer said that the lack of dew and disciplined bowling by Indias bowlers on a low-bounce pitch were the difference as the visitors lost by 14 runs in the third T20I held at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday night. Chasing 224, the West Indies scored only 209/7, though Springer made an unbeaten 35, including hitting Axar Patel for three fours and a six in the final over. I thought the Indian boys executed really well today in the middle, kind of stifled us and eventually left us with too many runs at the end. We thought the wicket would play a little better. The ball was keeping a little lower than we anticipated. We also thought there might be some dew in the second innings, but there wasnt really that much dew. And as I said, the nature of the wicket was a little low (and) the Indian bowlers used the wicket a lot better than us, said Springer in the post-game press conference. India had earlier posted a formidable 223, thanks mainly to Abhishek Sharmas 69 off 30 balls and his 108-run stand for the second wicket with Ishan Kishan (37 off 18 balls). He's a world-class player. Kudos to him, for sure. But I guess our Plan B was to just be as defensive as possible and try to make him get singles and twos rather than boundaries. Nothing too extravagant. It was just a matter of trying to pull him back and be as defensive as possible. That was really it. Because there's not much control you could really have here. I mean, the wickets are so good and those players are world-class players. They're the best for a reason. So, there's not really much you could really do besides be defensive, added Springer. Abhisheks innings got off to a cautious start against off-spinner Roston Chase, who accounted for the left-handed opener in the first two T20Is. Springer praised Chases contribution, saying he had been an unsung hero in the Caribbean setup for the past two years. It was just a matter of trying to pull him back and be as defensive as possible. That was really it. Because there's not much control you could really have here. I mean, the wickets are so good and those players are world-class players. They're the best for a reason. So, there's not really much you could really do besides be defensive, added Springer. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Lack of dew and Indian bowlers execution made the difference in Indore, says Springer
Digital Desk | Indore, Oct 12 (IANS) West Indies all-rounder Shamar Springer said that the lack of dew and disciplined bowling by Indias bowlers on a low-bounce pitch were the difference as the visitors lost by 14 runs in the third T20I held at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday night. Chasing 224, the West Indies scored only 209/7, though Springer made an unbeaten 35, including hitting Axar Patel for three fours and a six in the final over. I thought the Indian boys executed really well today in the middle, kind of stifled us and eventually left us with too many runs at the end. We thought the wicket would play a little better. The ball was keeping a little lower than we anticipated. We also thought there might be some dew in the second innings, but there wasnt really that much dew. And as I said, the nature of the wicket was a little low (and) the Indian bowlers used the wicket a lot better than us, said Springer in the post-game press conference. India had earlier posted a formidable 223, thanks mainly to Abhishek Sharmas 69 off 30 balls and his 108-run stand for the second wicket with Ishan Kishan (37 off 18 balls). He's a world-class player. Kudos to him, for sure. But I guess our Plan B was to just be as defensive as possible and try to make him get singles and twos rather than boundaries. Nothing too extravagant. It was just a matter of trying to pull him back and be as defensive as possible. That was really it. Because there's not much control you could really have here. I mean, the wickets are so good and those players are world-class players. They're the best for a reason. So, there's not really much you could really do besides be defensive, added Springer. Abhisheks innings got off to a cautious start against off-spinner Roston Chase, who accounted for the left-handed opener in the first two T20Is. Springer praised Chases contribution, saying he had been an unsung hero in the Caribbean setup for the past two years. Hes been underrated so far, but in our dressing room, we really appreciate what he brings to the table. He brings that control and calmness to our team. Hes the X-factor so far, he concluded.
Prince Yadav Reveals He Played With Abhishek Sharma's Bat During Crucial Indore Cameo
Captain Shreyas Iyer: India fast bowler Prince Yadav revealed he used star opener Abhishek Sharma's bat while scoring a crucial cameo against the West Indies in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium here. Prince made 13 runs off six balls and hit three fours in the final over off Shamar Joseph to help the Men in Blue finish at 223 in 20 overs, after Arshdeep Singh also hit 11 off eight. Prince also bowled a couple of tough overs in the death overs and kept his two overs to 20 runs, while the Windies needed much more with the asking rate climbing past 15. As India won the game by 14 runs in the end, Prince spoke about his cameo, revealing that Abhishek had given him the bat with which he hit those three fours. Obviously, brother, it is great to contribute to the team, whether it's with the ball, bat, or in the fielding. So, I am feeling good. So, Abhi bhaiya gave me his bat earlier and said, 'don't embarrass the bat'. So, I kept its honour, Prince told bcci.tv in a chat with Abhishek after the game. Meanwhile, Abhishek also heaped praise on Prince for his capabilities to hit crucial runs in the end. I've seen his batting; if anyone hasn't seen it, he's famous in Delhi for 'single phatti'. Single phatti means one-on-one matches. In that, you have to both bat and bowl. So he has that talent to hit sixes and fours. We saw a bit of it today, and we'll see more in future. As for the bat, well...you need power too, Abhishek said. Prince stated that he had batted with Abhishek's bat in Ireland too, where he had hit a six and vowed to play with the opener's willow in the future too. I played with Abhi bhaiya's bat in England too (Ireland), Prince said, before Abhishek quipped, he hit a six there. Prince continued, Yeah, I hit a six in Ireland too and here as well. So, I will take bhaiya's bat the next time too. Abhishek replied, Granted, as Prince then thanked the star batter for the bat. Prince stated that he had batted with Abhishek's bat in Ireland too, where he had hit a six and vowed to play with the opener's willow in the future too. I played with Abhi bhaiya's bat in England too (Ireland), Prince said, before Abhishek quipped, he hit a six there. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gave Respect To Chase Before Launching Boundaries In Power-play: Abhishek Sharma
Abhishek Sharma: Indias left-handed opener Abhishek Sharma revealed that his uncharacteristic cautious start against off-spinner Roston Chase was a calculated move to counter tactical plans of the West Indies before he unleashed his trademark attacking strokes in the power-play in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium. Abhishek led the charge with a blazing 30-ball 69, including reaching his fifty in 18 balls. It stood in stark contrast to the start India had only 11 runs coming in the first two overs and losing Sanju Samson early. That effort helped India post 223 and edge the West Indies by 14 runs to take a 2-1 lead in the five-game series. It was there in my mind that they had a plan against me. Obviously, an offspinner (Roston Chase) bowled in the first over. So it was just a battle between him and me. I gave him respect in the first over because I think he's bowling really well in this series. So it's just that the plan went pretty well for me as well, because in the Powerplay only, I was trying to just get a few runs. They had a plan for me, and I had to play better than that, said Abhishek in the post-game press conference. Midway through the third over, Abhishek shifted gears, creaming a drive-through cover-point before lofting Chase for consecutive sixes and that opened the doors for him to hit his 14th T20I fifty. Commenting on his rapport with Ishan Kishan, who contributed a brisk 18-ball 3, Abhishek said they just look to compliment each other. I have to make him (Kishan) laugh, I have to relax him a little. Because he likes to be in that zone when he comes to bat. But I feel like there is a bonding between the two of us. We have had so many partnerships, even in the IPL as well. So, we understand each other pretty well. Obviously Ishan comes in when a wicket is down, in the first three, four balls, or in the first two balls, (there is) that little pressure (and) I just always want him to be released from that and just play the way he always plays. And I think like he did last year or sowe don't talk much about the conditions and everything when we are out there. We just enjoy each other's batting, and just complement each other, he added. Reflecting on the team's mindset during the defence of 223, Abhishek conceded that the side was committed to maintaining pressure despite a late resurgence of the visitors innings. West Indies is such a team; you can never say that the match has come to us against them. This was also in our mind, because we saw in the last match that the batters who come, the conditions here, it is very easy for them to take a match (away) from anywhere. So it was in our minds; when we were playing, we were talking about this in the huddle that we will be ruthless, we will not leave, and we will not give a single chance for a comeback. If you have seen as well, the way (Shamar) Springer batted, we were really surprised (by) the way he played those shots. They werent easy shots. West Indies is such a team; you can never say that the match has come to us against them. This was also in our mind, because we saw in the last match that the batters who come, the conditions here, it is very easy for them to take a match (away) from anywhere. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Team India got back to winning ways as they defeated the West Indies in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Holkar International Stadium in Indore on October 11,...
There is nothing better than taking a wicket, says Dhir after 3rd T20I heroics
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 12 (IANS) India all-rounder Naman Dhir has explained how reading a batter's intentions helps him make decisions with the ball, after his two-wicket contribution proved crucial in Indias 14-run victory over the West Indies in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium in Indore on Sunday, giving the hosts a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Dhir, who dismissed Shimron Hetmyer and Kamil Pooran during the West Indies chase of 224, said his approach as an off-spinner centres on controlling his line and length, changing his pace and identifying the shots a batter is preparing to play. He also believes his experience as a batter offers him an additional perspective when he takes the ball. As an off-spinner, I dont have too many variations, so I have to rely on my line and length and vary my pace. That has always been my thinking. As they say that in T20 cricket, an attacking option can also be a defensive option because there is nothing better than taking a wicket. It helps being a batter because you understand the batters stance, where his backlift is coming from, his guard and the kind of shots he can play. I keep observing these things when I bowl, Dhir told JioStar. The Indian all-rounder explained that the dismissal was the result of assessing the situation rather than deliberately allowing the batter to attack before setting him up for a wicket. I didnt plan to concede three sixes and then take a wicket. For instance, when Kamil Pooran was batting, he was looking to play every shot towards the leg side and get room to free his arms, so I wanted to cramp him for room. I made a couple of errors in the first two deliveries. I knew I was bowling my third over, the batter was set, and with the run rate being high, he was bound to take a chance. And, ultimately, he got out playing exactly the kind of shot I wanted him to, getting caught at square-leg. So, these little things help me a lot, and as a bowler, I keep looking for such small details, he added. Beyond his bowling, Dhir also clarified the responsibilities assigned to him within the Indian setup, identifying himself primarily as a batting all-rounder. He said the team management expects him to provide flexibility in the lower middle order while contributing with the ball when required. I am a batting all-rounder. I got an opportunity to bat in this game, but I am a bit disappointed that I couldnt capitalise on it. However, its not as if I dont bowl. The Impact Player rule in the IPL means I get fewer opportunities to bowl there, but I have been bowling ever since I started playing cricket, and I really enjoy it. As far as my role is concerned, I have been told by the coaches and captain that I will bat at number six or seven, depending on the situation, so that role is flexible. With the ball, my responsibility is to bowl two or three overs economically whenever the team needs me, Dhir stated. Despite his contribution in Indore, Dhir is not setting himself specific targets for the immediate future. The all-rounder said he prefers to concentrate on playing his cricket and enjoying the game instead of mapping out ambitions too far in advance. I dont function that way, by looking too far ahead. I dont have any specific goals as of now. Im just playing my cricket, enjoying it, and wherever God takes me, Ill go, he concluded.
Indore T20I: 13 Runs From Prince Yadav That Proved Crucial
India captain Shreyas Iyer credited Prince Yadav's 13-run cameo and other lower-order contributions for providing a crucial cushion in their 14-run victory over the West Indies in the third T20I.
ACB hopeful to revive APL; few Indian parties interested in acquiring franchises
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Oct 12 (IANS) The Afghanistan Cricket Board is confident of reviving the Afghanistan Premier League, with the board confirming that five parties remain interested in acquiring the two remaining franchise spots in the league. The APL was first held in 2018 but halted after the inaugural edition, with the second edition being postponed following the ACB scrapping the league's sanction. The ACB is confident of reviving the league and that one party from Afghanistan and a few from India and other markets remain interested in acquiring the franchises. The ACB has zeroed in on three owners as they look to hold the league in the UAE, with options of moving the tournament to other locations in future. In the first edition, Balkh Legends, Kabul Zwanan, Kandahar Knights, Nangarhar Leopards and Paktia Panthers featured, with Balkh Legends winning it. ACB chief executive Naseeb Khan stated that the ACB is committed to staging the league. The Afghanistan Cricket Board remains fully committed to delivering the APL as planned. As everyone is aware, the league is being revived after a considerable period, and we have therefore taken a careful and strategic approach to selecting our commercial partner and franchisees, Naseeb said as quoted by Cricbuzz. ACB, together with our commercial partner, is in close communication with these parties, and we are working to finalise the remaining two franchise agreements as soon as possible. It is important to highlight that the commercial partners and franchisees are among the most important stakeholders of the league and are expected to remain involved for the long term. Therefore our priority is not simply to fill the remaining positions quickly, but to ensure that we select credible, financially capable and experienced partners who can contribute to the sustainable growth of the APL, he added. He added that the draft will take place in the last week of October, with the league set to commence on December 27. I would like to make it clear that the APL is firmly scheduled for this year with five teams. The player draft is scheduled for the last week of October, and the league will officially commence on 27 December 2026. The response from players has also been very encouraging, with around 1,500 players registered, including a number of top international players from around the world, Naseeb added. A specific committee is currently working on the screening and assessment of registered players in line with the approved criteria. A pool of Afghan coaches has also been assigned and will be presented for the draft in the coming days. The remaining coaching staff and team captains will likewise be selected based on the approved criteria and the requirements of each franchise which will be available for the draft, he said. He is also hopeful that the England players would participate in the tournament, despite England not playing a bilateral series against Afghanistan due to the Taliban government's treatment of women. A report in Cricinfo had earlier stated that the ECB will be granting the No-Objection Certificates to the players to feature in the league. ACB highly values its relationship with all our fellow cricket boards, including the England and Wales Cricket Board, and we remain committed to maintaining a positive, respectful and cooperative relationship with them, Naseeb said. Our understanding is that the continued growth of cricket depends on strong cooperation among cricket boards, particularly in facilitating player participation in different forms of cricket, including franchise leagues around the world, subject to the respective boards policies, schedules and contractual considerations, Naseeb said. ACB has always supported and facilitated the participation of our players in England, various leagues and competitions, and we look forward to the same spirit of cooperation for the APL. We are confident that this mutual understanding and support will continue to benefit the players, the respective boards and the long-term development of cricket globally, he added.
South Africa vs Australia 1st Test Day 4: Live Cricket Score And Updates
South Africa vs Australia, 1st Test Day 4 Live Cricket Score: Australia start Day 4 with a 139-run lead over South Africa in the first Test.
What Hardik's Girlfriend Revealed on His 33rd Birthday
Mahieka Sharma penned a heartfelt note for Hardik Pandya's 33rd birthday, detailing his journey from a struggling young cricketer in Baroda to one of India's leading all-rounders, highlighting his early struggles, unexpected turn to bowling, and unwavering work ethic.
The Indian team registered a brilliant victory as they took on the West Indies in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Holkar International Stadium in Indore on October...
Australia To Wear Special Kit For Next Month's 150th Anniversary Test At MCG
Aunty Fiona Clarke: Australia will wear a one-off special edition of their Test whites featuring green and gold for the 150th Anniversary Test against England at the MCG next March. CA revealed the special kit on Monday to coincide with 150 days to go until the Test begins on March 11. The special kit replaces the golden wattle trimmings with gold, while a green placket has been introduced. It also features the anniversary Test logo in gold on the sleeve, as well as the logo of kit manufacturer Asics. The golden trim will adorn the collar and piping along the side seams of the shirt and pants, as well as gold buttons. The kit is otherwise unchanged from the version worn by Australia's men in Tests since release in the 2025-26 summer, with Indigenous artwork from renowned Aboriginal artist Aunty Fiona Clarke featured on the shoulders. As per cricket.com.au the artwork, titled 'Land & Sea,' incorporates the Walkabout Wickets motif and is an extension of the tribute to Australia's first-ever touring cricket team, the 1868 Aboriginal XI that travelled to England. All public tickets have been sold for the first three days of the 150th Anniversary Test to be played as a day-night match with the pink ball. The 150th Anniversary Test to be played as a day-night match with the pink ball has been sold out for the first three days of the match. Australian players have a crowded schedule for Pat Cummins' men that has them playing up to 21 Tests in a 12-month period that began in August. The 150th Anniversary Test to be played as a day-night match with the pink ball has been sold out for the first three days of the match. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
PCB Relocates Presidents Trophy Games Amid Political Unrest In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has overhauled the schedule of the ongoing Presidents Trophy Grade 1 tournament, shifting fixtures away from Peshawar and Abbottabad after political instability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa prompted Pakistans federal government to declare a state of emergency and impose governors rule in the province. The changes affect matches scheduled at Imran Khan Stadium in Peshawar and Abbottabad Cricket Stadium, with the PCB moving the fixtures to venues in Sheikhupura and Lahore. Games scheduled in Islamabad and Rawalpindi will proceed as planned, with the sixth round of the competition set to begin on Monday, As per the revised schedule, the match between Ghani and Hyderabad Kingsmen Academy will be played at Rana Naveed Academy in Sheikhupura from October 14. The fixture featuring Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) and Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) has been shifted to the LCCA Ground in Lahore, located next to Gaddafi Stadium, and will also begin on October 14, Cricinfo reports. The venue changes come with the tournament entering a decisive phase, as the ongoing round is the penultimate stage of the league competition. As per the report, Lahores LCCA Ground will also stage the final-round encounter between Markhor IT Solutions and Pakistan TV. In Islamabad, the National Cricket Ground will host the Hyderabad Kingsmen Academy versus State Bank of Pakistan fixture in the last round, alongside the Diamond Club ground, which is also being used for the citys matches. The final round has been pushed back by a day and will now commence on October 19, altering the closing schedule of the round-robin league. All eight participating teams face each other once, with the two sides finishing highest in the standings advancing to the final. The PCB has yet to announce the venue for the title decider. The disruption comes at a time when the board has been attempting to broaden the reach of domestic cricket beyond its traditional centres. Abbottabad has regularly hosted first-class matches, while Peshawars Imran Khan Stadium returned to the senior mens domestic calendar last season after nearly seven years away, staging nine Quaid-e-Azam Trophy fixtures following extensive renovation work. The final round has been pushed back by a day and will now commence on October 19, altering the closing schedule of the round-robin league. All eight participating teams face each other once, with the two sides finishing highest in the standings advancing to the final. The PCB has yet to announce the venue for the title decider. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Why Abhishek Sharma Wants Ishan Kishan to Laugh More
Abhishek Sharma's explosive 69 runs off 30 balls propelled India to a 14-run victory against the West Indies in the third T20I, giving them a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Sharma also discussed his batting partnership with Ishan Kishan and the importance of preparation.
Abhishek reveals how he beat Windies' bowling tactics
India opener Abhishek Sharma discusses his strategic approach to batting against West Indies bowlers, which led to his match-winning 69 runs in the third T20I. He explains how he adapted to their field placements and bowling plans, contributing to India's 14-run victory and a 2-1 series lead. Sharma also touched upon India's ruthless mindset, the performance of Naman Dhir, and his partnership with Ishan Kishan.
Pakistan Scores It's 2nd Highest Total In T20 Cricket To Win Series Against Sri Lanka
Pakistan posted its second highest total in Twenty20 cricket and beat scrappy Sri Lanka by 82 runs on Sunday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series.
Was Kohli Left Bitter by How His Test Exit Was Handled?
Former India batter Wasim Jaffer believes Virat Kohli's sudden Test retirement in May 2025 stemmed from bitterness over how the situation was handled, suggesting the star player could have continued in the format.
President's Trophy matches shifted out of Peshawar and Abbottabad
The Pakistan federal government has declared a state of emergency and imposed governor's rule in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, where the two cities are located
Wo Hasta Nahi Hai: Abhishek Sharma Sums Up His 'Jugalbandi' With India Star
India opening batter Abhishek Sharma has an incredible bond with teammate Ishan Kishan. The duo stitched a 108-run partnership for India in the third T20I against West Indies.
Virat Kohli Retired Too Soon From Tests? Wasim Jaffer Shares His Assessment
Former India cricketer Wasim Jaffer has expressed his opinion that Virat Kohli could have been handled differently in terms of his leaving test cricket. The former batter feels that the way it happened was a shock for everyone including Kohli himself
Tilak Varma's Casual Approach Costs Him His Wicket, Never-Seen-Before Run-Out Unfolds. Watch
In the third T20I against West Indies, India's Tilak Varma became the victim of one of the most comical run-outs in the history of the game.
Shreyas Iyer Flags Concern Despite India's Win Over West Indies In 3rd T20I
India captain Shreyas Iyer on Sunday credited the bowlers for powering his side to a 14-run win over the West Indies in the third T20 International in Indore, saying they stayed confident and clear in their thoughts.
Abhishek Sharma Reveals Counterstrategy To Nullify West Indies' Plan Against Him
India opening batter Abhishek Sharma prepared a counter-strategy to nullify the plan West Indies had created against him in the third T20I on Sunday.
Focus on my game and consistency helped me make a comeback, says Karan
Shami happy to see Bhuvneshwar back in the Indian team
How India held nerve to beat Windies in Indore thriller
India defeated West Indies by 14 runs in Indore to take a 2-1 lead in the five-match Twenty20 International series. Chasing 224, West Indies fell short despite efforts from Shimron Hetmyer, with Arshdeep Singh being India's top bowler. India's innings was powered by Abhishek Sharma's explosive 69.
Abhishek Scales New Heights, Joins Elite Indian Club
Abhishek Sharma joined India's 2,000-run T20I club with a blistering 69 off 30 balls, equalling Suryakumar Yadav's calendar-year sixes record and registering his seventh powerplay fifty.
3rd T20I: Arshdeep, Dhir Star As India Beat West Indies By 14 Runs, Take 2-1 Lead
With Kamil Pooran: India's bowlers defended 223 on a dew-free night to beat West Indies by 14 runs in the T20I at the Holkar Stadium here on Sunday, and take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Arshdeep Singh returned with figures of 3-44, while Naman Dhir took two scalps. Arshdeep, who took out in-form Shai Hope, along with others ensured that the West Indies big-hitters couldnt ace a second chase on the trot. Shamar Springer's 11-ball 35 not out gave the visitors a late push, but it went in vain, as the West Indies finished on 209/7. The win is also the first victory for a team batting first in the white-ball series so far. It came despite India's second-half slide, with soft dismissals, had made 223 look below par at one stage, after Abhishek Sharma's 30-ball 69 had laid the foundation for a big total. Indias defence began with Mayank Yadav opening with a one-run over, while Arshdeep struck when Hope went for a wild slog, but was castled for one. Shimron Hetmyer then took the attack to the bowlers. After a quiet start, he broke free with a boundary off Mayank in the third over, and was given a life on five when Abhishek Sharma dropped a simple chance of him at short third man. Hetmyer made the most of it by hitting a six and two fours off Arshdeep in the fourth over, as 19 runs came off it. With Mayank and Prince Yadav leaking runs, West Indies reached 54/1 at the end of the Powerplay, 33 runs behind India's 87/1 at the same stage. Hetmyer carted Naman Dhir for four and six, before being bowled for 43 by a slower delivery from the off-spinner which skidded as well. With Kamil Pooran struggling for timing, West Indies were under pressure and that led to Rovman Powell holing out to deep cover for five, as he went for a loft on a quicker delivery from Axar without reaching to the pitch of the ball. Pooran launched a late assault on Dhir by hitting three sixes over cow corner, wide long-off and square leg. But Dhir had the last laugh as Pooran tried the same pick-up shot, but couldnt get under the ball and holed out in the deep for 42. Sherfane Rutherford and Quention Sampson tried resurrecting the innings with some lusty boundaries, before the latter holed out to long-off on Nitish Kumar Reddys bowling. When Arshdeep took out Keemo Paul and Rutherford in four balls of the 18th over, it made the result a foregone conclusion in Indias favour, despite some last over boundary hitting from Shamar Springer, who remained unbeaten on 11-ball 35. Pooran launched a late assault on Dhir by hitting three sixes over cow corner, wide long-off and square leg. But Dhir had the last laugh as Pooran tried the same pick-up shot, but couldnt get under the ball and holed out in the deep for 42. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
The Indian team registered a dominant victory against the West Indies in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides met at the Holkar International Cricket Stadium in Indore for the clash, and...
IND vs WI 3rd T20: Abhishek, Arshdeep to the fore as India wins a batathon to go 2-1 up
The Men in Blue breached the 200-run mark yet again, recording 223 courtesy of opener Abhishek Sharmas blast (69, 30b, 6x4, 5x6)
3rd T20I: Reverse Swing In The Death Overs Is Always Fun, Says Arshdeep After India's 14-run Win
Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium: Left-arm pacer Arshdeep Singh said on Sunday that bowling in the death over with the ball reversing was always an enjoyable exercise, as he played a pivotal role in India defending 223 to beat West Indies by 14 runs in the third T20I here at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday. Named Player of the Match for his figures of 3-44, Arshdeep made the early breakthrough by castling the in-form Shai Hope in the second over. Kamil Pooran and Shimron Hetmyer both made scores in the 40s, but India never allowed the visitors to get ahead of the required rate. The contest stayed alive as long as Sherfane Rutherford was at the crease, until Arshdeep produced a phenomenal yorker to shatter his middle stump, and took Keemo Paul too to ensure the contest ended in Indias favour and help the hosts take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. It was pretty nice, the ball was reversing a bit and it's always pretty fun to bowl at the death with some reverse swing, said Arshdeep to broadcasters at the conclusion of the game. On how the team deals with an off day, where he doesnt get a scalp, Arshdeep said, There is no such thing as a leader or senior in the team. It's a chill environment and anytime someone has a bad day, we put an arm around our shoulders and tell them it's fine. As an international cricketer you know you will have good days and bad days and you'll come back to do well. I personally love it when batters go hard at you in all phases because that's when you can test your skills and mental strength. Arshdeep also explained how he approaches changing conditions. The main focus is just to come early and bowl a little with new ball and old ball and adapt to the conditions. The schedule is always tight and the team that adapts early comes out on the right side of the result. As an international cricketer you know you will have good days and bad days and you'll come back to do well. I personally love it when batters go hard at you in all phases because that's when you can test your skills and mental strength. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
How bad light could shape the South Africa vs Australia Test
Around 45 overs have been lost across three days' play, which needs to be factored into teams' calculations
3rd T20I: Bowlers Were Decisive In Execution, Says Shreyas After India's 14-run Win
Shreyas Iyer: India captain Shreyas Iyer on Sunday praised his bowlers for their clarity and decisiveness, adding that the dry ball helped them stick to their plans while defending 223 in the third T20I against West Indies here at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday. With the bowlers led by Arshdeep Singhs 3-44 at their best, especially in bowling yorkers in the death overs, India sealed a 14-run win to go 2-1 up in the five-match series. It was wonderful because the bowlers were pretty confident with what they wanted to execute. The clarity was much more visible. They were decisive in their execution and when I was passing the ball to them, each and every bowler was up for the challenge and that's what you want, said Shreyas at the conclusion of the game. The skipper was also full of praise for the batting effort that set up the win, especially Abhishek Sharma's 69, Ishan Kishan's 37, and Prince Yadav's cameo of 13 not out at the end. Honestly, that was a phenomenal start. Abhishek doing what he does in the powerplay and Kishan coming in. He's been great in the last few months. Even Prince playing the cameo in the end, those were crucial runs. West Indies, you can never take them lightly. So we had to make sure we never get complacent. Both of them are high-scoring grounds but it's important we stick to our process and follow our routines and make sure we stay offensive, added Iyer. West Indies captain Shai Hope said the bowlers could have done better and that the dew-free conditions had played a part in them ending up at 209/7. So many things you can put your finger on. But cricket games have small margins. As a winning team, you can pick out defining moments. Probably with the ball, we could have executed better and we let a few boundaries through. I believe that the way we came back into the game was quite commendable. From the outset, if you look at that partnership, it was a very dangerous one, but we got some wickets with Roston, and we pulled it back. He also admitted the team needed a stronger top three in the batting the order, but did not want to blame one or two players. We have to find a good opening partnership to lay the platform but can't point your finger on one or two guys. Probably with the ball, we could have executed better and we let a few boundaries through. I believe that the way we came back into the game was quite commendable. From the outset, if you look at that partnership, it was a very dangerous one, but we got some wickets with Roston, and we pulled it back. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Farhan and Sadaqat help Pakistan seal series in style
Both batters blazed fifties to take Pakistan to 215, and Sri Lanka never got going in the chase
3rd T20I: Arshdeep and Abhishek power India to 14-run win over WI, take 2-1 series lead (Ld)
Digital Desk | Indore, Oct 11 (IANS) Abhishek Sharma top-scored with 69 off 30 balls before India's bowlers defended 223 on a dew-free night to beat West Indies by 14 runs in the T20I at the Holkar Stadium here on Sunday, and take a 2-1 lead in the five-match series. Arshdeep Singh returned with figures of 3-44, while Naman Dhir took two scalps. Arshdeep, who took out in-form Shai Hope, along with others ensured that the West Indies big-hitters couldnt ace a second chase on the trot. Shamar Springer's 11-ball 35 not out gave the visitors a late push, but it went in vain, as the West Indies finished on 209/7. The win is also the first victory for a team batting first in the white-ball series so far. It came despite India's second-half slide, with soft dismissals, had made 223 look below par at one stage, after Abhishek Sharma's 30-ball 69 had laid the foundation for a big total. Indias defence began with Mayank Yadav opening with a one-run over, while Arshdeep struck when Hope went for a wild slog, but was castled for one. Shimron Hetmyer then took the attack to the bowlers. After a quiet start, he broke free with a boundary off Mayank in the third over, and was given a life on five when Abhishek dropped a simple chance of him at short third man. Hetmyer made the most of it by hitting a six and two fours off Arshdeep in the fourth over, as 19 runs came off it. With Mayank and Prince leaking runs, West Indies reached 54/1 at the end of the Powerplay, 33 runs behind India's 87/1 at the same stage. Hetmyer carted Dhir for four and six, before being bowled for 43 by a slower delivery from the off-spinner which skidded as well. With Kamil Pooran struggling for timing, West Indies were under pressure and that led to Rovman Powell holing out to deep cover for five, as he went for a loft on a quicker delivery from Axar without reaching to the pitch of the ball. Pooran launched a late assault on Dhir by hitting three sixes over cow corner, wide long-off and square leg. But Dhir had the last laugh as Pooran tried the same pick-up shot, but couldnt get under the ball and holed out in the deep for 42. Sherfane Rutherford and Quention Sampson tried resurrecting the innings with some lusty boundaries, before the latter holed out to long-off on Nitish Kumar Reddys bowling. When Arshdeep took out Keemo Paul and Rutherford in four balls of the 18th over, it made the result a foregone conclusion in Indias favour, despite some last over boundary hitting from Springer, who looted three sixes and a four off Axar. Previously, Abhisheks blistering fifty, laced with six fours and five sixes, as well as an aggressive 108-run stand with Ishan Kishan had India on course for a score close to 250. But losing wickets at regular intervals, with several of them coming via soft dismissals and mix-ups, allowed the visitors to claw their way back and kept India to a total that looked well short of what they had threatened to post. Pushed into batting first, India made only 11 runs in the first two overs. After Roston Chase bowled the opening over and gave away four runs, Shamar Joseph removed Sanju Samson in the second over, as the opener mistimed a flick off a 150.8 kmph delivery to mid-wicket for three. Abhishek then changed the complexion of the innings - against Chase in the third over, he began by driving inside-out through cover-point for his first boundary, before lofting another inside-out drive over cover for six and ended the over with a second six going over point. After Kishan hit Paul for three fours, Springer's fifth over was taken for runs by him and Abhishek. A chip over point for four by Kishan was followed by Abhishek lofting two successive balls over cover for four before slamming a length delivery over the same region for six, as 21 runs came off it. 21 more runs came off Joseph's next over, beginning with a cut by Ishan for four. Abhishek followed it up with a six over cover and then chipped a four over mid-wicket followed. A pull to the right of deep mid-wicket fetched him two runs to complete his 14th T20I fifty off 18 balls. Abhishek then backed away and squeezed a four past point, as India ended the power-play at 87/1. During the course of his fifty, Abhishek became the fastest batter to reach 2,000 T20I runs in terms of balls faced (1,024) during his innings. He and Kishan continued to hit boundaries till the West Indies brought a twist in the game. Chase ended the 108-run second-wicket stand in the ninth over when he cramped a stepping out Kishan for room with an incoming delivery and Hope stumped him from behind. Chase later trapped skipper Shreyas Iyer lbw for one in the same over, before Abhishek fell for 69 by top-edging a pull to Springer, who took the return catch and Gudakesh Motie got his 50th T20I wicket when Dhir holed out to long-off. With India in a spot of bother, Tilak Varma and Reddy tried rebuilding the innings by hitting two fours each off Joseph in the 13th over, before the latter was caught behind off Paul for 21. After that, India were dealt a double blow by mix-ups believing that Axars flick off Gudakesh had gone for four, he bumped fists with Varma while returning for the second run. But Pooran had kept the ball in play at deep square leg, and Shai Hope's throw to Motie found Varma well short of his crease to dismiss him for 28. Axar himself fell to a run-out when he pushed a Springer delivery to point and showed no interest in a run, only to find Arshdeep already halfway down the pitch. Axar set off belatedly, but Paul and Springer combined to complete the run-out and dismiss him for 20. After Arshdeep was trapped lbw by Springer, Prince added valuable runs to Indias score by heaving, scooping and edging Joseph for three boundaries, before the pacer ended the innings by castling Mayank with a pacy yorker. Brief Scores: India 223 all out in 20 overs (Abhishek Sharma 69, Ishan Kishan 37; Roston Chase 2-38, Shamar Springer 2-50) beat West Indies 209/7 in 20 overs (Shimron Hetmyer 43, Kamil Pooran 42; Arshdeep Singh 3-44, Naman Dhir 2-39) by 14 runs.
Bowling resilience helps team India take lead in T20I series, defeat WI by 14 runs in Indore
The Indian team continued their ongoing T20I series against the West Indies. The two sides met at the Holkar International Cricket Stadium in Indore for the clash on October 11th, and the game saw India...
Ben Shelton Crashes Out As French Underdog Arthur Gea Pulls Off Career-Best Win
France's world number 56 Arthur Gea stunned Ben Shelton in the third round of the Shanghai Masters on Sunday.
Australia's fabled fast-bowling quartet of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon etched their names into the history books during the first Test against SA at Kingsmead.
Karan returns to Ranji Trophy in style, puts Rajasthan in control against TN
The third T20I of the ongoing series between India and the West Indies saw the two sides take on each other at the Holkar International Stadium in Indore. The clash saw the Indian team come...
Abhishek's 69 lights up T20I before India's collapse
India, despite a blistering 69 from opener Abhishek Sharma and a century stand with Ishan Kishan, collapsed from a strong position to be all out for 223 against West Indies in the third T20I on Sunday. Sloppy middle-order batting, including two run-outs, led to the team falling short of a projected massive total.
Hasan Mahmud's Hat-Trick Leaves Afghanistan Reeling In Abu Dhabi Test
Fast bowler Hasan Mahmud took a hat-trick to help put Bangladesh into a commanding lead over Afghanistan in the one-off Test in Abu Dhabi on Sunday.
Nic Maddinson (17 not out) and Travis Head (10 not out) added 33 runs off just 5.4 overs to stretch Australia's overall lead to 139 before bad light ended play for the third day in a row.
Steve Smith Breaks Fielding Record As Australia Take Control Of 1st Test
Steve Smith broke the Test record for the most career catches by a fielder as Australia played themselves into a strong position on the third day of the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead on Sunday. Smith held four catches, taking his total to 223, as South Africa were bowled out for 284 in reply to Australias first innings of 390. Nic Maddinson (17 not out) and Travis Head (10 not out) added 33 runs off just 5.4 overs to stretch Australias overall lead to 139 before bad light ended play for the third day in a row. Maddinson, who laboured to a 33-ball duck in the first innings, hit two fours off Marco Jansen in the first over of the second innings and added a six off Wiaan Mulder before play was called off. Australias bowlers applied relentless pressure on an easy-paced pitch and a succession of South African batsmen contributed to their own dismissals by playing poor shots. Six Protea batters reached 30 but David Bedinghams 49 was the top score. Australian captain Pat Cummins took three for 54 and Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon took two each as Australias long-serving bowling quartet combined with customary efficiency. Smith started the day on 219 catches, one behind Joe Root of England. He equalled the record when he caught South African captain Temba Bavuma. Standing at slip, he anticipated Bavuma's reverse sweep against off-spinner Nathan Lyon and moved to his right with Bavuma's mistimed shot going straight to him. Smith, playing in his 126th Test, broke the record when he lunged to his left from second slip to hold a sharp edge from Bedingham off Australian captain Pat Cummins. Smith thought he had taken another catch when he held a low edge from Wiaan Mulder at slip in the over before lunch. Mulder started walking off the field but the umpires reviewed the incident and decided the ball had not carried. But Smith was in the action again with a spectacular catch to dismiss Kyle Verreynne, again anticipating well at slip as the South African wicketkeeper made good contact with a reverse sweep which Smith held in an outstretched right hand. His fourth catch was from an edge to slip by last man Anrich Nortje off the bowling of Beau Webster. Smiths career haul of 223 catches exceeds the total of all but 11 specialist wicketkeepers. Brief scores: Australia 390 and 33-0 South Africa, first innings, 284 (A. Markram 37, D Bedingham 49, T. Stubbs 32, W. Mulder 30, S. Hermer 35 not out, K. Maharaj 34; M. Starc 2-63, J. Hazlewood 2-54, P. Cummins 3-54, N. Lyon 2-58) Match situation: Australia lead by 139 runs with 10 wickets remaining in the second innings Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Toss: Australia
Sunil Gavaskar Releases Book On Ex-BCCI Secretary Sanjay Jagdale
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar on Sunday released Sanjay Jagdale: Rag-Rag Mein Cricket, a book on the life of former BCCI secretary Sanjay Jagdale, expressing hope that it would prove useful to...
Shami shines as Bengal bowls out Delhi for 240
RANJI TROPHY | Smaran bails Karnataka out from a precarious spot
CRICKET | After the host Andhra picks up early wickets and reduces the visitor to 22 for four, the visiting skipper bats for nearly five-and-a-half hours in trying conditions and stitches together a crucial fifth-wicket stand with Shrijith
Overlooked Mohammed Shami Stars With Four-Fer As Bengal Dominate Delhi In Ranji Trophy
India fast bowler Mohammed Shami reminded the national selectors of his capability yet again as he took a four-wicket haul for Bengal in their opening Group C clash against Delhi at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani on Sunday.
Lad leads Mumbai's Ranji fight as Jaiswal falls for a duck
Skipper Siddhesh Lad's unbeaten 80 and Musheer Khan's 65 guided Mumbai to 249 for five against Chandigarh. Karan Lamba's unbeaten 103 and Rohan Rajbar's 95 propelled Rajasthan to 286 for 4 against Tamil Nadu. Elsewhere, Anshul Kamboj took four wickets for Haryana, and Devendra Singh Bora claimed five wickets for Uttarakhand.
Suryansh Shedge Shines As India A Beat Australia A By 49 Runs
Suryansh Shedge made a quick 66 and pacer Gurjapneet Singh took three wickets as India A beat Australia A by 49 runs in the inconsequential third one-day match on Sunday.
Abhishek Sharma Scripts World Record, Surpasses Suryakumar Yadav In Elite List
India opener Abhishek Sharma on Sunday scripted a huge world record during the 3rd T20I against the West Indies in Indore.
3rd T20I: Nitish, Prince Return For India As West Indies Elect To Bowl First, Sampson, Paul Included
Nitish Kumar Reddy: India have brought back seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy and pacer Prince Yadav as West Indies captain Shai Hope won the toss and elected to bowl first in the third T20I at the Holkar Stadium here on Sunday. West Indies are coming off acing a thrilling record-breaking run chase in the second match in Ranchi and levelling the five-game series 1-1. A win for either of the two teams will get them a 2-1 lead. With the pitch in Indore traditionally known as a batter's paradise featuring short boundaries and flat nature, both teams are bracing for another high-scoring encounter. India skipper Shreyas Iyer said Nitish and Prince have replaced Shivam Dube and Kuldeep Yadav in their playing eleven. The dew factor played a massive role in the previous game, on a given day it happens you need to have that mindset to put it behind. It's important that we adapt and assess quickly to get to a commendable total. Given the dimensions we made those changes and we also needed someone who can hit the yorkers, he said. West Indies captain Shai Hope said Romario Shepherd has a niggle and is rested from Sundays game, while Quentin Sampson and Keemo Paul have been drafted into the playing eleven. I think we all know what I am going to do, so we are going to bowl first again. It's going to be challenging when you are playing all three formats. Just about learning as quickly as possible in these conditions. We always know that catches determine a lot of games, he said. Playing XIs: India: Abhishek Sharma, Sanju Samson (wk), Ishan Kishan, Shreyas Iyer (captain), Tilak Varma, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Naman Dhir, Axar Patel, Mayank Yadav, Arshdeep Singh, and Prince Yadav Playing XIs: Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
RANJI TROPHY | Shikhar notches up this editions first ton as Jharkhand wins the initial exchanges
Kerala works its way back in to the contest thanks to fine spells of off-spin by Jalaj and Vaisakh as the visitor puts a brake on the hosts march
3rd T20I: Won't Get Ahead Of Ourselves Despite Historic 250-run Chase In Ranchi, Says Roston Chase
Roston Chase: West Indies off-spin bowling all-rounder Roston Chase has insisted that his team will not get ahead of themselves despite coming off a historic 250-run chase in the second T20I in Ranchi, adding that the visitors must remain grounded and focus on flawless execution in the third match here at the Holkar Stadium on Sunday. The record-breaking victory for the West Indies, led by Shai Hopes unbeaten century and Sherfane Rutherfords blistering fifty has boosted the team morale. With the series locked at 1-1, the West Indies have a chance to take a 2-1 lead if they manage to get a win in Indore. Yeah, obviously, coming (off) that historic run, 250, the guys are very confident in the camp, but we don't want to get ahead of ourselves. We still have to trust the process and play each game on its merit, Chase said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Highlighting the demanding nature of playing on flat Indian surfaces with short boundaries, Chase felt that bowlers from both sides operate under minimal margin for error. On these wickets the margin for error as a bowler is very slim. You have to be spot on with your lines and lengths, and it's all about execution. And that's been the main word for us as bowlers, even as batters on this tour. It's all about execution, he said. Outlining his personal bowling approach, after he took 3-24 in Ranchi, revealed how he relies on stump-to-stump line discipline before using the yorker as a secondary option when batters look to target him. Well, mainly I just try to stick to my strengths, which is trying to hit the top of the stumps on a hard length, and then if that's not working, if the batsman then tries to measure me, then it's time to go to my yorkers. That's a good strength of mine, and I just try to keep the ball away from the batsmen, and then I think it's about being smart and studying each and every player and knowing where they want to hit the ball mostly, and trying to get away from that, he said. Elaborating on the hardships faced by the bowling group, especially in the matches where heavy dew sets in, Chase said, It is tough. It's tough - spinners and pacers. It's tough, and especially when the dew comes in. That makes it even harder because then the variation of the slow balls, it doesn't really have that big effect that it would usually have on a dry surface. So as I said, it's just about execution and sticking to the plan that you have. Whatever plan you have, just try to execute it to the best of your ability. Have a few where you can have more than one option to kind of keep the batsman guessing where you're going to go. Elaborating on the hardships faced by the bowling group, especially in the matches where heavy dew sets in, Chase said, It is tough. It's tough - spinners and pacers. It's tough, and especially when the dew comes in. That makes it even harder because then the variation of the slow balls, it doesn't really have that big effect that it would usually have on a dry surface. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Rohit Sharma Shines With 5/36 As Jammu And Kashmir Seize Control Against Madhya Pradesh
Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir made a strong start with the ball as medium pacer Rohit Sharma claimed five wickets to dismiss Madhya Pradesh for 196 on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A match on Sunday.
Bhuvneshwar Returns, But Why Was Shami Left Out?
Indian pacer Navdeep Saini has voiced strong support for Mohammed Shami's return to the national team, highlighting Shami's consistent hard work and performances in domestic cricket. Saini also drew inspiration from Bhuvneshwar Kumar's recent recall for the T20I series against New Zealand, seeing it as proof that consistent performance can lead to a comeback.
RANJI TROPHY | Lad to the fore as Mumbai weathers early inroads by Chandigarh
CRICKET | The skippers unbeaten 80 and a fighting half-century by Musheer negates the visitors decision to bowl first on a pitch with a greenish tinge while Mhatre chips in with a useful contribution
3rd T20I: God Has Been Kind, Working Hard On Mental Aspect To Finish Games, Says Tilak Varma
Tilak Varma: India vice-captain Tilak Varma has attributed his recent success in the middle order to rigorous mental preparation and practice, as well as to the Almighty, while adding that he has been working hard on the mental aspect to finish matches for the team. While Tilaks finishing abilities werent required in Lucknow, he did slam an unbeaten 44 against the West Indies in Ranchi and smashed an unbeaten 51 in India retaining its gold medal at the Asian Games in Japan earlier this month. First of all, thank you for mentioning that about the Asian Games and World Cup. It always feels good whenever I hear about that. And right now, yes, God has been really kind to me. And right now, my form is also going really good. And definitely, if you see, the way I finished that last match (was) terrific. But at the same point, again, we are focusing on our basics. Let's see how it goes, and right now my form is good, Varma said in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters. Addressing the shift in his batting position from the top-order to taking up responsibility of finishing games in the middle order, the left-handed batter explained that the transformation required deliberate effort both in the nets and mentally, which is still a work in progress. Honestly, I haven't played much at No. 4. You know, as our coach said, every batsman after... The openers are only fixed. Other than that, everyone keeps rotating. But I always say, batting up the order was my strength before, but now I got used to it since the World Cup. Addressing the shift in his batting position from the top-order to taking up responsibility of finishing games in the middle order, the left-handed batter explained that the transformation required deliberate effort both in the nets and mentally, which is still a work in progress. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
West Indies bowl; India bring in Reddy and Prince
West Indies were forced to leave out Romario Shepherd and brought in Quentin Sampson and Keemo Paul for him and Akeal Hosein
Pacer Sharma Shines as J and K Begin Ranji Trophy Defence Strongly
Defending champions Jammu and Kashmir made an impressive start to their Ranji Trophy Elite Group A campaign, dismissing Madhya Pradesh for 196 on the opening day. Medium pacer Rohit Sharma led the attack with a five-wicket haul, while Sunil Kumar added four wickets. J and K were 3/1 at stumps, trailing by 193 runs.
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka Live Score Updates 2nd T20I
Pakistan vs Sri Lanka 2nd T20I Live Score: Sri Lanka captain Kusal Mendis won the toss and opted to bowl against Pakistan in the 2nd T20I in Rawalpindi.
SL make three changes and opt to bowl in must-win game
Pakistan made one change, swapping right-arm quick Razaullah for left-arm fast bowler Salman Mirza
RANJI TROPHY | Tripuras batting wilts after a game fight, Hyderabad a mere 13 behind
CRICKET | The hosts gamble of playing two pacers and three spinners pays off handsomely, with the spin duo of Tanay and Aniketh ripping through the visitors line-up; offie Sarkar sparks a mini riposte with four wickets
The Untold Story of Luhnu Cricket Ground: From a Submerged Towns Rebirth to a Ranji Trophy Comeback
When cricket fans think of picturesque stadiums in Himachal Pradesh, the spectacular, snow-capped peaks of Dharamshala inevitably dominate the conversation. But this October, domestic crickets spotlight shall take a dramatic 150-kilometre detour southwest. Following persistent, unseasonal rain that left the Dharamshala outfield waterlogged and unplayable, the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association (HPCA) made a breaking announcement: the high-profile Elite Group D Ranji Trophy clash between powerhouse defending champions Mumbai and Himachal Pradesh (1821 October 2026) has been officially moved to the Luhnu Cricket Ground in Bilaspur. For Luhnu, a highly rated 4.4-star venue praised by locals for its well-maintained pitches and spacious outfield, this match marks a monumental competitive resurgence. Moving a first-class four-day match on short notice is a massive logistical gamble, but the Luhnu Cricket Ground is uniquely equipped for weather crises. Nestled directly on the edge of the expansive Gobind Sagar Lake, the ground features newly upgraded SISGrass hybrid pitches. By injecting 5% artificial polymer fibres into the natural grass turf, the square has become highly resilient to player wear and tear while recovering exceptionally fast from heavy rains. While the venue boasts a dedicated team of passionate staff, it has spent over two decades waiting for a moment like this. Luhnu first hosted youth cricket in 1999, followed by its first-class debut in the 2001/02 Ranji Trophy when Himachal played Delhi, and a subsequent fixture against Hyderabad in 2002/03. For 24 years, no further major senior domestic matches were staged hereuntil the weather gods and modern turf technology combined to hand Bilaspur its grand stage. This isn't the first time the Luhnu Ground has been intricately tied to Dharamshala's weather and logistical dramas. In March 2024, just 48 hours before the high-stakes 5th Test Match between India and England, the tranquil town of Bilaspur witnessed an unprecedented spectacle. At the crack of dawn, Indian Captain Rohit Sharma embarked on a frantic multi-leg journey after attending the Ambani family pre-wedding festivities. Having flown out from Delhi at 5:30 AM, a private helicopter braved the volatile mountain weather to fly Rohit directly into Bilaspur, landing on the Luhnu outfield at the behest of then-Union Sports Minister Anurag Thakur. Joined by Head Coach Rahul Dravid, Rohit spent the morning at the Luhnu ground inaugurating the Sansad Khel Mahakumbh 3.0. The duo even thrilled the local crowds by playing tennis-ball cricket with local youth right on the lakeside turf. At the time, Thakur publicly lauded Rohit, noting that the captain easily could have refused the demanding early-morning trip so close to a Test match but chose to come to inspire the 75,000 young rural athletes gathered at the venue. But what happened after the Bilaspur event created its own separate media storm. With India's official team net practice scheduled for early afternoon in Dharamshala, there was zero time to negotiate the winding mountain highways. Rohit and Dravid boarded the chopper at Luhnu once more, flying directly over the Dhauladhar peaks to Dharamshala. To avoid delaying his arrival at the team camp, the private chopper touched down at the Kangra District Badminton Association Ground. Because the landing took place right next to the iconic HPCA infrastructure, social media went into a frenzy over the grand helicopter entry, allowing the skipper to instantly join the squad for training without losing a single minute to road traffic. Luhnus entire existence is rooted in a story of rebirth. In the 1960s, the construction of the iconic Bhakra Dam transformed the Sutlej River, completely submerging the old historical town of Bilaspur. As a new town was meticulously planned and built on higher ground, Luhnu emerged as its vast, open-air cultural heart and primary oxygen zone. Instead of Dharamshalas jagged peaks, players and spectators at Luhnu are treated to a stunning, serene lakeside view, where the lush outfield seems to melt directly into the emerald-blue waters of the Gobind Sagar reservoir. It is a place where migratory Siberian ducks fly past in the winter, and the earthy fragrance of pine leaves fills the air. It stands as one of the most picturesque stadiums in India. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With plans currently underway to further develop the surrounding waters into an official hub for adventure water sports and boating festivals, Luhnu is quickly transitioning from a beloved community park into a premier multi-sport destination. As Mumbai travels to town this October, the lakeside ground is finally getting the grand first-class cricket spotlight it was always meant to occupy.
Ranji Trophy: Shami Takes Four-wicket Haul; Smaran Smashes Century On Captaincy Debut On Opening Day
Dr Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju ACA: India fast bowler Mohammed Shami reminded the national selectors of his capability yet again as he took a four-wicket haul for Bengal in their opening Group C clash against Delhi at the Bengal Cricket Academy Ground in Kalyani on Sunday. Shami, who has been overlooked by Indian selectors despite his consistent performances in the domestic circuit, took 4-30 in 17.3 overs as Bengal bowled Delhi out for 240. The veteran also sent in nine maiden overs and bowled at a mingy economy of 1.70, showing his class once again. Other India internationals, Akash Deep and Mukesh Kumar, were also among the wickets, with Akash taking 2-74 in his 17 overs (4.40 economy) and Mukesh scalping 1-43 in 17 overs (2.50 economy). Off-spinner Aamir Gani took three wickets for 45 as he also played a crucial role with Bengal. Meanwhile, Ravichandran Smaran marked his Karnataka captaincy debut with a stellar hundred against Andhra in a Group B clash at the Dr Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju ACA Cricket Ground in Vijayawada. Karnataka were in trouble at 22/4, but Smaran smashed 126 from 218 balls to bail the team out of trouble, with wicketkeeper Krishnan Shrijith hitting 58 and Madhav Bajaj scoring 33 to help Karnataka make 274. In reply, Andhra ended the day 16/2 with Shikhar Shetty and Madhav Bajaj taking a wicket each. In another Group B fixture between Saurashtra and Chhattisgarh at the Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot, India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja remained unbeaten at 72 at the end of Day 1 as Saurashtra made 308/4. Prerak Mankad also went back unscathed on 92, while opener Chirag Jani had scored 83 earlier. Umesh Yadav also struck twice for Punjab in their fixture against Assam in New Chandigarh, but bad light forced an early stumps as Assam were 68/3. In other Group C matches, Jharkhand's Sikhar Mohan made 143 as his team ended the Day 1 strong at 289/5 against Kerala at Keenan Stadium in Jamshedpur. Gaurav Choudhary scored an unbeaten 121 to power Odisha to 272/3 against Gujarat in Ahmedabad, while Ankeet Bawne hit a hundred for Maharashtra to help them end Day 1 against Services at 289/5. Prithvi Shaw also made 70. In Group A, Akshay Wadkar and Yash Rathod scored centuries to help Vidarbha end the day at 292/5 against Pondicherry after they were in trouble at 54/5. J&K seamer Rohit Sharma took his maiden five-wicket haul, playing after two years as Madhya Pradesh were bowled out for 196. Baroda ended Day 1 at 204/3 after opener Shivalik Sharma made 62, while Deepak Hooda, having returned to his former team, remained unbeaten on 38. Rinku Singh and Madhav Kaushik also scored centuries for Uttar Pradesh in their clash against Bihar to lift the team from 85/3 to 287/3 at the end of the day. In Group D, India Test opener Yashasvi Jaiswal was dismissed for a duck, but Mumbai's new captain went back unbeaten on 80, with Musheer Khan also scoring 65 as Mumbai ended the day on 249/5. Rinku Singh and Madhav Kaushik also scored centuries for Uttar Pradesh in their clash against Bihar to lift the team from 85/3 to 287/3 at the end of the day. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India A hit back as Shedge, Gurjapneet sink Australia
India A defeated Australia A by 49 runs in the third and final one-day match in Puducherry on Sunday, though Australia A secured the series 2-1. Suryansh Shedge's quick 66 and Vipraj Nigam's 40 helped India A post 275, while Gurjapneet Singh's three wickets ensured Australia A were bowled out for 226.
IND vs WI 3rd T20I LIVE Score: India look to take the series lead in Indore
India and the West Indies are all set to take on each other in the third T20I of the ongoing series. The teams meet at the Holkar Stadium in Indore for the clash, and it could be interesting to see which side comes out on top. It is worth noting that the series currently sits at 1-1. It began in Lucknow, where India won the game after a brilliant run chase orchestrated by skipper Shreyas Iyer. Coming on the back of a dominant show in Lucknow, India failed to replicate their performance in the second T20I.
Steve Smith smashes Joe Root's world record, achieves massive feat against South Africa in 1st Test
Veteran Australia batter Steve Smith has once again captured the limelight as the star man has surpassed Englands Joe Root and broken his world record. It is interesting to note that Steve Smith achieved a...
RANJI TROPHY | J&K bowls out MP cheaply thanks to Rohit and Sunils exploits
CRICKET | The two medium pacers share nine wickets between themselves as the visitor is skittled out for 196 with only skipper Shubham making a fist of it with a fighting half-century
Australia's fabled quartet moves past 600-wicket milestone in historic first
Digital Desk | Durban, Oct 11 (IANS) Australia's fabled fast-bowling quartet of Pat Cummins, Josh Hazlewood, Mitchell Starc and Nathan Lyon etched their names into the history books during the first Test against South Africa at Kingsmead here. The fabled bowling unit breached a special 600-wicket milestone with their scalps in the first innings against the Proteas. The four have become the first-ever quartet to complete 600 wickets in Test cricket while playing Test matches together. Coming into the first Test in Durban, the four bowlers had taken 599 wickets in the 37 matches they played together and breached the 600-wicket mark during Day 2 of the fixture at Kingsmead. The four bowlers now have over 600 wickets in 38 matches that they have played together. This came after the four combined to take all first eight wickets that fell in South Africa's innings at the time of writing this piece. Cummins leads the charts among the four as he has 160 wickets in the games he has played with Starc, Hazlewood and Lyon. Starc is second with 155 scalps in 74 innings, while Hazlewood stands third with 152 wickets in 72 innings. Lyon is a close fourth as he has 140 wickets in 70 innings when he played with the above three bowlers. They are the first quartet to go past the mark and have a huge gap between the other most prolific quartet of James Anderson, Stuart Broad, Ben Stokes and Moeen Ali, all of whom have 433 wickets in the 34 Test matches they have played together. Australian bowlers made inroads in South Africa's batting line-up on Day 3 of the fixture. Cummins took three wickets, while Hazlewood and Lyon scalped two each, and Starc also took one. The hosts were in trouble at 197/8 when Hazlewood removed Marco Jansen to send the Proteas in further trouble. Australia had earlier made 390 batting first with Matt Renshaw scoring a masterful hundred.
Gurjapneet, Thakur, Sindhu star as India A avoid 3-0 sweep with 49-run win over Australia A
Digital Desk | Puducherry, Oct 11 (IANS) A clinical effort from the bowling attack, led by Gurjapneet Singhs three-for and two scalps each taken by Yash Thakur and Nishant Sindhu, helped India A avoid a 3-0 series sweep with a convincing 49-run victory over Australia A in the third and final 50-over game here at the CAP Siechem Ground on Sunday. In a successful defence of 275, India A bundled out Australia A for 226 in 46.2 overs. The visitors suffered a sensational collapse as they lost seven wickets for just 49 runs after sitting comfortably at 177/3 at one stage. Left-arm pacer Gurjapneet used his variations to great effect to finish with impressive figures of 3-42, while right-arm fast bowler Thakur (2-38) and left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Sindhu (2-41) delivered key strikes in the middle and lower overs to seal the win for India A. Earlier, after being inserted to bat on a slowish pitch with variable bounce, India A were bowled out for 275 in 49.3 overs, largely anchored by a counter-attacking 85-run seventh-wicket stand between Suryansh Shedge (66) and Vipraj Nigam (40). India A had gotten off to a flying start as openers Priyansh Arya and Prabhsimran Singh had an 83-run opening stand. However, Prabhsimran's exit for 39 in the 11th over triggered a top-order wobble, as India A lost five wickets for 35 runs to slip to 118/5. Alongside Shedge, skipper Ruturaj Gaikwad attempted to steady the ship by hitting 33 off 57 balls. But Mitchell Owen removed the captain to leave India A reeling at 159/6. Vipraj then provided the much-needed impetus alongside a determined Shedge to lift the side to exactly 275. Chasing 276, Australia A had an 82-run opening stand, led by Josh Philippes fluent half-century. But Nigam provided the breakthrough by dismissing Philippe, and Liam Scott fell in the very next over as India A put the brakes on the scoring rate. Though Nathan McSweeney (39) and Lachlan Shaw (31) added 58 runs for the third wicket, India A's bowlers kept pressure at both ends. Once the stand was broken, as Shaw fell to Anukul Roy, Gurjapneet, Thakur, and Sindhu ripped through the lower order, and aided by a timely run-out of Nikhil Chaudhary, India A managed to get a consolation win, as Australia A won the series 2-1. Brief Scores: India A 275 in 47.3 overs (Suryansh Shedge 66, Priyansh Arya 49; Ben Dwarshuis 3-38, Will Sutherland 3-44) beat Australia A 226 in 46.2 overs (Josh Philippe 56, Nathan McSweeney 39; Gurjapneet Singh 3-56, Yash Thakur 2-35) by 49 runs.
