The Duleep Trophy 2026 final sees East Zone taking on South Zone. The two sides meet at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai for the clash, and batting first, East Zone got off to a...
Shree Charani reveals India's plan to crush Pakistan
Young left-arm spinner Shree Charani discusses the Indian women's cricket team's strategy, particularly among slow bowlers, after their dominant seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Women's T20 Asia Cup. India bowled out Pakistan for their lowest-ever T20I total of 55, securing a semifinal spot and topping their group.
Lakshya Excited To Lead India U19, Credits Dehradun T20 League For Preparation
The Dehradun T20 League: Lakshya Raichandani described his appointment as captain of India U19 for the upcoming white-ball series against Australia as a special moment for him and his family, while also highlighting the value of the Dehradun T20 League in his preparations. The Mussoorie Thunder batter, currently featuring in the Dehradun T20 League, said he was looking forward to embracing the responsibility of leading the junior national side and using the opportunity to continue developing his game. Everyone at home was very happy when I got the call. It was a very special moment for my family as well. I am really excited about the responsibility and see it as a great opportunity to lead the team, learn and prove myself, Lakshya said. The 19-year-old said representing India against Australia would be a valuable experience and expressed his gratitude at being entrusted with the leadership role. I am very excited and grateful for this opportunity. It is a great feeling to be part of the India U-19 team and to play against Australia. I am really looking forward to the white-ball series and hopefully I can contribute to the team. Lakshya said he has opted to keep his preparation straightforward, sticking to his regular routine rather than making significant changes ahead of the series. I am following the normal process and focusing on my practice. I am not doing anything very different. I am just working on my game, preparing well and trying to be ready for the series. The ongoing Dehradun T20 League has also given him an opportunity to gain competitive match practice. Lakshya believes the tournament can play an important role in creating opportunities for local cricketers and preparing players for the next level. The Dehradun T20 League is providing very good exposure to the local players. It is also very good preparation for the boys who are looking to play in the UPL. The local players are getting the opportunity to play competitive T20 cricket, gain experience and showcase their talent. I think this league can be very beneficial for the development of cricket in Dehradun and Uttarakhand. Recalling his initial reaction to being picked for the tournament, Lakshya said he viewed it primarily as a chance to gain valuable game time. When I first heard about the Dehradun T20 League and found out through the auction that I would get an opportunity to play here, my first thought was that it would be good practice for me. There was also a lot of excitement because it was a new league and I knew I would get a good opportunity to gain experience and prepare myself. Recalling his initial reaction to being picked for the tournament, Lakshya said he viewed it primarily as a chance to gain valuable game time. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I am working on my game day by day and trying to improve in every aspect. It is going to be a long domestic season, so my focus is on staying consistent, working hard in practice and making small improvements every day. Article Source: IANS
'Still the best': Pak coach's bizarre claim after India rout
Pakistan women's team coach Wahab Riaz made a controversial statement after his side's seven-wicket defeat to India in the Women's Asia Cup 2026, claiming Pakistan is still the best team in the tournament. His comments came amidst criticism from former captain Sana Mir regarding squad selection, which Riaz defended as a move to build for the future. Pakistan now faces a crucial must-win match against Hong Kong to stay in the competition.
Ignored India Star Sends Loud Message To BCCI With Brilliant 5/20 In County Championship
Indian spinner R Sai Kishore took five wickets for 20 runs as Gloucestershire secured a 213-run win over Derbyshire in the County Championship.
Women's Asia Cup: Very Important To Stick To Our Strengths, Says Charani After India Beat Pakistan
T20 Asia Cup: India spinner N Sree Charani emphasised the importance of sticking to the teams strengths on the difficult pitches at the ongoing Womens T20 Asia Cup, after Indias spin attack dismantled Pakistan to secure a comfortable seven-wicket victory here on Saturday. Charani and Prema Rawat led Indias bowling attack with three wickets each as Pakistan were bowled out for just 55 off 18.1 overs. India then chased the target in just 8.4 overs to record their fifth consecutive T20I victory over their arch-rivals. With the pitches offering grip and enabling sharp turn, Indias spinners repeatedly deceived Pakistans batters with flight, drift and disciplined lengths. Charani returned excellent figures of 3-7 from her four overs, while Rawat finished with 3-9. In a video shared by the BCCI, Charani said the conditions made it particularly important for Indian players to rely on their strengths rather than deviate from their established approach. The learnings are the same. You just need to stick to your strengths here because of the pitches that we are playing. Its crucial to stick to our strengths. If we follow that, then we will do well going forward, she said. The youngster also praised Rawat, who delivered a match-winning spell alongside her, with the duo accounting for six of Pakistans 10 wickets. I didnt like her wicket, but I liked her celebration, Charani said of Rawat. Charani also credited Indias coach, Avishkar Salvi, with helping the players prepare for various match situations during practice. It is simple. Avi, sir, also tells us in the practices whenever we go; he tells us to just do reps on the ball. He watches us. He also gives us inputs, whatever the situation is, she said. If we are doing good, then he doesnt tell us anything. He just tells us that we are doing good. If anything is going wrong, then he will be the first person to come to us. He will guide us, she added. Rawat, who also picked up three wickets, said repeatedly creating pressure situations during practice had helped her become more comfortable on the international stage. It is actually special for me because of all the matches I have played, like the WPL debut, the World Cup debut, and my India debut, and the whole crowd was there. So, I was not ready for the pressure. I was under a lot of pressure when I made my debut, said Rawat. But when I go back for practice, I create that situation. So, because of that, I am used to it now. So, it feels good. Rawat also underlined the importance of carrying Indias winning momentum into the next stage of the tournament. Actually, to be honest, the next stage of winning is very important because if we take this confidence forward, it will give us more confidence. We dont have to get used to it because we have achieved three wins. So, when we move forward in the matches, it will help us a lot, she said. Rawat also underlined the importance of carrying Indias winning momentum into the next stage of the tournament. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories However, Harmanpreet Kaur, unbeaten on 18, and Deepti Sharma ensured there were no further setbacks as India completed another emphatic win over Pakistan. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan Are The Best Side In This Asia Cup To Lift The Trophy: Wahab Riaz
Asia Cup: After a humiliating defeat at the hands of India in the Womens Asia Cup league-stage match in Dubai on Saturday, Pakistan team mentor Wahab Riaz said his side remains the favourites to lift the trophy. Playing their 200th T20I, Pakistan struggled to find momentum as India implemented a spin-choke to dismiss them for a record-low T20I score of 55. Despite captain Fatima Sana (3/17) leading Pakistan's resistance with three early wickets, India easily achieved the 56-run target, extending their winning streak in the Women's Asia Cup 2026 and maintaining top spot in Group A. I believe that all the players in our team are very skilful, and they just need to trust themselves. Our next match is against Hong Kong. We will go back and discuss what we did wrong against India. We wont commit the same mistakes. I still believe Pakistan is the best side in this Asia Cup to lift the trophy because the conditions really suit us, Riaz told reporters after the loss. Former captain Sana Mir had criticised the Pakistan team management for making wholesale changes to the team for the Womens Asia Cup, leaving out seven players. However, Riaz brushed aside such criticism, saying the players left out were not performing well and that changes were made to bring in new faces, keeping the future in mind. Sana Mir has her own opinion. I have nothing to do with that opinion. We have made changes with the future in mind. The players who were playing before have played a lot of World Cups and Asia Cups but we werent getting the results. So it was time to go with new faces and bring new girls into the mix to build the team for the upcoming tournaments, Riaz said. Former captain Sana Mir had criticised the Pakistan team management for making wholesale changes to the team for the Womens Asia Cup, leaving out seven players. However, Riaz brushed aside such criticism, saying the players left out were not performing well and that changes were made to bring in new faces, keeping the future in mind. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Pakistan, who are on the brink of a group-stage exit with just two points, will look to bounce back when they face Hong Kong on Monday. Article Source: IANS
Flames Hold Their Nerve To Edge Guardians In 9-Run Thriller
Amsterdam Flames held their nerve in a closely fought contest to defeat Dublin Guardians by nine runs
Former India cricketer reflects on key decisions after BCCI's meeting around SENA games
The Indian team is set for a T20I series against Afghanistan. The Men in Blue are coming into the series on the back of a two-game Test series win against Sri Lanka. With the shaky...
U.S. Open: Zverev reaches fourth round with win over Tabilo
The writing was on the wall for Tabilo when Zverev raced ahead 5-2 in the third, and the German booked his place in the round of 16 where 21st-seeded Italian Luciano Darderi awaits
300 and Still Standing: Josh Hazlewoods Extraordinary Comeback
There was no grand stage, no roaring crowd and no elaborate celebration. Josh Hazlewood reached one of the greatest landmarks in Australian fast bowling almost exactly as he has conducted his entire career: quietly, efficiently and without fuss. At Darwin, Hazlewood dismissed Mehidy Hasan Miraz to claim his 300th Test wicket, becoming only the ninth Australian bowler in history to reach the landmark and just the seventh Australian fast bowler to do so. Hazlewood began Australia's first Test against Bangladesh needing five wickets to enter the exclusive 300 club. He finished the innings with 6 for 89, his 14th five-wicket haul in Tests. More importantly, he had returned to the format after a frustrating year of injuries and uncertainty and immediately reminded Australia why he remains one of the most trusted fast bowlers of his generation. At 35, Hazlewood had not played a Test for 12 months and had even missed the previous home Ashes because of injuries. For more than a year, therefore, the 300-wicket milestone had been tantalisingly close but out of reach. Talking of the feat of 300 Test wickets, Dennis Lillee was the first Australian quick to reach the landmark, in November 1981. Since then, Glenn McGrath, Brett Lee, Mitchell Johnson, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins have joined him. Hazlewood's arrival completes another remarkable chapter in the story of Australian pace bowling. Among Australia's nine 300-wicket bowlers, only McGrath, Cummins and Lillee had a better bowling average when they reached the milestone than Hazlewood's 24.02. But statistics alone do not explain Hazlewood. His greatness has never depended on express pace or theatrical celebrations. There was another extraordinary dimension to Hazlewood's achievement. He joined Nathan Lyon, Mitchell Starc and Pat Cummins in Australia's current Test attack three teammates who had already crossed 300 wickets. That created a unique piece of cricket history. The Darwin Test became the first Test in which one team had four bowlers each with at least 300 Test wickets. Lyon now has 571 wickets, Starc 445, Cummins 322 and Hazlewood 303. The sheer volume of experience in Australia's bowling attack is extraordinary. It also underlines how special this Australian era has been. For years, the quartet of Hazlewood, Starc, Cummins and Lyon has formed the backbone of Australia's Test bowling. Together, they have won Ashes series, World Test Championship titles and countless matches around the world. Yet Hazlewood knows there are still challenges ahead. Australia faces a demanding period of Test cricket, potentially involving 20 to 21 matches in 12 months, including major overseas assignments. England, India and South Africa represent particularly significant challenges. There is something fitting about Hazlewood's understated personality matching his cricket. He is one of the least visible members of Australia's modern cricket team. Even after reaching 300 wickets, he was reluctant to make the achievement about himself. He may never have been the loudest voice in the dressing room or the most visible Australian cricketer outside it, but for more than a decade he has been one of Australia's most reliable match-winners. Now his name sits alongside Lillee, McGrath, Lee, Johnson, Starc and Cummins in the exclusive list of Australian fast bowlers with 300 Test wickets. Josh Hazlewood has stood through injuries, setbacks, competition and long periods away from Test cricket. And after all that, the quiet man of Australian cricket is finally standing among the giants. Of the nine Australian bowlers to reach 300 wickets, Shane Warne remains Australia's leading wicket-taker with 708, ahead of Lyon's 571, Glenn McGrath's 563 and Starc's 445. Dennis Lillee (355), Cummins (322), Mitchell Johnson (313) and Brett Lee (310) complete the list of Australians above Hazlewood's tally of 303, with Lyon, Starc and Cummins still adding to their totals as active players. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Globally, the milestone places Hazlewood among an elite group of bowlers to have taken 300 or more Test wickets. Sri Lanka great Muttiah Muralitharan tops the overall list with 800 wickets, followed by Shane Warne with 708. Hazlewood's achievement may not carry the numerical weight of those legends, but in the context of Australian fast bowling, it represents something special: the resurrection of a great quick who refused to let injuries write the final chapter of his career.
ETPL 2026: Amsterdam Flames Edge Dublin Guardians by Nine Runs
Amsterdam Flames held their nerve in a closely fought contest to defeat Dublin Guardians by nine runs in Match 15 of the ETPL at Voorburg Cricket Club, Netherlands. After posting 169/7, the Flames were pushed all the way by Dublin, who finished on 160/8in a chase that remained alive deep into the final overs. Dublin Guardians won the toss and elected to bowl, but Amsterdam made an assured start through Steven Smith and Yuvraj Samra. Samra struck 11 from eight balls before falling in the third over, while Smith continued to attack, making 38 from 27 balls, including two fours and two sixes. Bas de Leede added 19 from 19 before Amsterdam reached the halfway stage in a strong position. Tim David then provided the innings with another important contribution, striking 35 from 26 balls, while Curtis Campher produced the late acceleration the Flames needed. Campher's 32 from just 19 balls, including five fours, lifted Amsterdam through the closing overs. His innings helped push the Flames to 169/7 from their 20 overs, setting Dublin a target of 170. The Guardians began their chase positively, with James Vince leading the response. The England batter produced an outstanding 73 from 46 balls, striking 10 fours and two sixes as Dublin kept pace with the required rate. Vince found useful support from Harry Tector, who made 18 from 12, while Sanjay Krishnamurthi added a brisk 24 from 20. The Guardians reached 69 in the powerplay and continued to keep the chase within touching distance through the middle overs. Amsterdam, however, kept finding breakthroughs at crucial moments. Richard Gleeson dismissed Daryl Mitchell early and later removed Vince, ending the innings that had given Dublin genuine belief. Tim Pringle then delivered an important spell, claiming 3/22 from four overs, including the wickets of Tector, George Dockrell and Ravichandran Ashwin. With the Guardians still within range, the closing overs became a test of Amsterdam's ability to defend their total. Dublin continued to find runs, but the Flames managed to prevent the late surge that would have taken the game away from them. The Guardians finished on 160/8, falling just nine runs short of the target. For Amsterdam, the victory was built on contributions throughout the order. Smith and David provided the middle-overs momentum, Campher supplied the late impetus, and the bowling attack produced wickets at the moments they mattered most. For Dublin, Vince's superb 73 ensured the contest remained alive until the closing stages, but Amsterdam's ability to defend a competitive total under pressure ultimately proved decisive. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories In a match that went down to the final overs, the Flames held their composure when it mattered most to secure a hard-earned nine-run victory. At the end of the day, the Flames walked away with two very crucial points, while the Guardians remain without a win after five outings.
Pooran and Narine lead TKR to victory in low-scoring clash
Sunil Narine led a classic TKR spin strangle after Nicholas Pooran's six-hitting set up a defendable total
Pakistan Best Team In Women's Asia Cup: Coach Wahab Riaz After 55-All Out Show Against India
Pakistan women's team coach Wahab Riaz made a surprising statement after the team was bowled out for 55 against India, labelling his side the est in Women's Asia Cup 2026.
Why is KL Rahul not playing against East Zone in Duleep Trophy 2026 final? Check details
The stage is set for the summit clash of the Duleep Trophy 2026; East Zone is taking on South Zone in the clash as the two sides meet at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai,...
East Zone vs South Zone LIVE Score, Duleep Trophy Final 2026 Cricket Match Scorecard LIVE Updates: East Zone skipper Ishan Kishan won the toss and opted to bat against South Zone in the final of the prestigious Duleep Trophy.
Edinburgh Rockers Overcome Early Collapse to Beat Rotterdam Dockers by 55 Runs in ETPL
Edinburgh Castle Rockers produced another impressive all-round performance to defeat Rotterdam Dockers by 55 runs in Match 14 of the ETPL, defending 148 at Voorburg Cricket Club, Netherlands. Rotterdam Dockers won the toss and elected to field, and their decision appeared to be paying off early as the Rockers lost three wickets inside the opening three overs. JJ Smuts fell for a two-ball duck, Andries Gous departed for four and Ross Adair was dismissed for nine, leaving Edinburgh at just 14 for three. The Rockers, however, rebuilt through Brandon McMullen and Laurie Evans. The pair added 46 before McMullen was dismissed for a powerful 37 from 28 balls, which included three fours and two sixes. Evans continued to anchor the innings, making 33 from 31, before Gareth Delany provided the acceleration Edinburgh needed. Delany's 31 from just 18 balls, featuring two fours and two sixes, shifted the momentum firmly back towards the Rockers. Mitchell Santner then added a rapid 15 from eight, including a six, as Edinburgh pushed beyond the 140 mark despite losing wickets regularly in the closing overs. Edinburgh were eventually bowled out for 148 in 19.3 overs, with Rotterdam's Jai Moondra, David Wiese and Anrich Nortje each claiming three wickets. The Dockers' chase, however, unravelled almost immediately. Tom Curran made the early breakthrough by removing Michael Levitt for one, before dismissing Vikramjit Singh for a duck in the same over. Ben McDermott briefly threatened with a six, but Trent Boult removed him for 6, leaving Rotterdam eight down after just 2.4 overs. Faf du Plessis attempted to steady the innings with 21 from 19 balls, but Mitchell Santner produced the crucial breakthrough, with Ross Adair taking the catch to remove the Dockers captain at 40 for five. From there, the Rockers' bowlers maintained relentless pressure. Santner finished with 2/17, Mark Watt took 2/23, and Curran returned to complete a superb spell of 3/16 from four overs, while JJ Smuts also claimed a wicket. Rotterdam were bowled out for 93 in 18 overs, handing Edinburgh a comprehensive 55-run victory. The result keeps the Rockers unbeaten in the ETPL and underlines their ability to win from difficult positions, with their recovery from 14 for three followed by a disciplined bowling display that never allowed Rotterdam to establish a meaningful partnership. For the Dockers, an early bowling advantage could not be converted into control of the match, while their batting collapse left them with too much ground to recover. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Edinburgh once again showed the balance that has made them one of the tournament's leading sides, combining resilience with the bat and sustained pressure with the ball to secure another convincing win.
Duleep Trophy Final: Sooryavanshi in focus; East bat first
Fifteen-year-old Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, East Zone's vice-captain, is set to play a pivotal role in the Duleep Trophy final after his impressive semi-final performance. All eyes are on the young talent as East Zone bats first against South Zone.
Pandey, Harris and Yastika give Knight Riders opening-night win
Kiran Navgire and Maddy Green provided fight, but Barbados Tridents lacked the batting depth to challenge Trinbago Knight Riders' 155
Irfan Pathan Takes Dig At Pakistan With 'Sunday' Joke
The Indian women's cricket team secured a dominant seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in the Women's Asia Cup, bowling them out for just 55 runs. This one-sided win prompted former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan to revive his viral Sunday joke on social media, referencing past India-Pakistan clashes.
PCB Takes Pakistan Players' Phones Into Custody, Drama Unfolds Ahead Of 3rd England Test: Report
Pakistan Cricket Board has reportedly confiscated players' mobile phones ahead of the third Test against England, a move not publicly explained or aligned with ICC norms.
The Indian team put forth a brilliant performance against Pakistan in the ongoing Womens Asia Cup. Taking on the side at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on September 5th, the Indian team bundled out Pakistan...
Duleep Trophy Final Live Score, East Zone vs South Zone Live Updates: Focus On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Duleep Trophy Final Live Score, East Zone vs South Zone Live Updates:Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Devdutt Padikkal and Tilak Varma will be eager to amplify their recent red ball gains while Mohammed Siraj will look to rediscover his rhythm
Irfan Pathan Mocks Pakistan With Sunday Post Again After India Hammering In Women's Asia Cup
India's dominance over Pakistan on the cricket field continued on Sunday as Harmanpreet Kaur and Co. defeated their arch-rivals by seven wickets in a Women's Asia Cup match.
Duleep Trophy Final Live Streaming, East Zone vs South Zone Live Telecast: Where To Watch
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi In Action, East Zone vs South Zone Live Streaming, Duleep Trophy Final Live Telecast: Where To Watch
The stage is set for the summit clash of the Duleep Trophy 2026 . The final pits East Zone against South Zone. The two sides will meet at the MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chepauk, Chennai, on September 6th, and it could be interesting to see which side comes out on top.
What Is PCB Investigating? Report On Players' Phone-Confiscation Raises Serious Questions
The current meltdown in the Pakistan cricket team has taken a new turn
Mohammed Shami is set to play his 100th first-class match in the Duleep Trophy final, but he hasn't played for Team India in more than a year.
Pakistan's challenge ended in a whimper as Harmanpreet Kaur-led India romped to a seven-wicket win in a Women's Asia Cup match in Dubai on Saturday
US Open PIX: Two sets down, Cerundolo rallies to shock Fritz
American tennis star Taylor Fritz was unexpectedly defeated by Argentina's Francisco Cerundolo in a five-set thriller during the third round of the U.S. Open, marking Fritz's earliest exit from his home major in four years. Cerundolo's improved play in the latter sets secured his first-ever spot in the U.S. Open fourth round.
KCL: Imran sparkles as Titans emerge champions in a gripping finale
Shafali Verma fastest and youngest to 3000 runs in WT20Is
India's Shafali Verma has become the fastest and youngest player to reach 3,000 runs in Women's T20 International cricket during a match against Pakistan in Dubai.
'Important to keep the standards high': Harmanpreet salutes India after Pakistan rout
India secured a dominant seven-wicket victory over arch-rivals Pakistan in an inconsequential Women's Asia Cup T20 match.
India opener Shafali Verma reached another landmark in her young international career on Saturday, becoming the fastest and youngest cricketer to score 3,000 runs in Womens T20Is during Indias Asia Cup 2026 clash against Pakistan...
Womens Asia Cup: 'I Want To Do More For My Country,' Says Charani After Three-for Against Pakistan
Dubai International Stadium: Top-ranked T20I bowler N. Sree Charani said her primary drive remains to do more for her country after delivering a match-winning spell of 3-7 in her side's dominant seven-wicket victory over Pakistan at the Womens Asia Cup on Saturday. Left-arm spinner Charani claimed 3-7 to help skittle Pakistan out for a paltry 55 in 18.1 overs, before India comfortably chased down the target in 8.4 overs at the Dubai International Stadium. Its (a) great feeling to contribute (to) my team. Just wanted to bowl to my strength and according to the field. I just try to give more revs on the ball, so that helps me every time, she said at the conclusion of the game. She also spoke about remaining focused on collective success as she nears a major personal milestone of 50 T20I wickets. I think (its) normal, like every day. But it will be special, but yeah, I need to continue and want to do more for my country. I want to keep going with my good work, added Charani. Its (a) great feeling to contribute (to) my team. Just wanted to bowl to my strength and according to the field. I just try to give more revs on the ball, so that helps me every time, she said at the conclusion of the game. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Fatima mounted a spirited personal fightback with the ball, taking 3-17 in the powerplay to reduce India to 29-3, though she derived little satisfaction from the effort. But still, we lost the match; it doesnt matter. We needed a win, so it doesn't matter. We will try to play good cricket there (against Hong Kong China on Monday), and in the last match we will try to win and (progress) to the finals (knockouts). Article Source: IANS
Womens Asia Cup: 'All The Bowlers Were Outstanding,' Says Harmanpreet After Brushing Aside Pakistan
Captain Harmanpreet Kaur: Captain Harmanpreet Kaur praised her team's relentless approach and the bowlers' outstanding show after India brushed aside Pakistan by seven wickets in the Women's T20 Asia Cup in Dubai on Saturday. Chasing a paltry target of 56, after their spin attack led by three-fors from N. Sree Charani and Prema Rawat skittled out Pakistan for 55 at the Dubai International Stadium, India completed the chase in 8.4 overs. The clinical performance marked India's fifth consecutive T20I victory over Pakistan and secured their top spot in Group A with three straight wins. Very important game for us, and really happy (with) the way the entire team performed today, because we talk about being ruthless, and I'm really happy (with) the way we performed, Harmanpreet said after the match ended. India's spinners dominated the opening innings on a fresh pitch offering turn; Pakistan lost six wickets for just eight runs after being 27/0 at one point. All the bowlers, they were outstanding. They are sticking to their plans and bowling according to their plans and reading the pitch really well. I think that is the key: understanding the pitch and then executing your plans accordingly. Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana provided brief resistance with the ball, picking up 3-17 to reduce India to 29/3. However, Harmanpreet and Deepti Sharma took India home without any further loss. I think it's part of the game. They also bowled a few good balls, and I think the important (thing) was just being there, just keep batting and finish the game as soon as possible, said Harmanpreet. The match also marked Harmanpreet's 150th T20I appearance as India captain, a milestone she celebrated by hitting the match-winning six over long-on. I'm grateful. I never thought I'd come that far, but all the people behind me who've been supporting me, I'm really grateful, and hopefully I'll keep getting the support, because I think without support I'm nothing. And yeah, I'm grateful, and the entire team, support staff, they've been outstanding. So yeah, I mean many more to come hopefully. Let's keep continuing the good work, she added. I'm grateful. I never thought I'd come that far, but all the people behind me who've been supporting me, I'm really grateful, and hopefully I'll keep getting the support, because I think without support I'm nothing. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We know what this team brings when we go to the field, and I think I'm really happy (with) the way everybody is coming up and showing up good performances, and now another two games, hopefully we'll keep playing our best cricket. Article Source: IANS
Shafali Verma Creates History During India-Pakistan Clash, Sets New World Record
Star India opener Shafali Verma entered the record books on Saturday, becoming the fastest and youngest player to reach 3,000 runs in Women's T20 Internationals.
Very Important To Keep Standards High: Harmanpreet Kaur After India's Big Win Over Pakistan
Skipper Harmanpreet Kaur couldn't be happier that her team was clinical and ruthless in equal measure in its seven-wicket win over arch-rivals Pakistan in an inconsequential group league match of the Women's Asia Cup.
Sai Kishore five-for inspires Derbyshire demolition
India spinner leads fourth-innings rout as Gloucestershire end six-match losing streak in style
Womens Asia Cup: India Earn Seven-wicket Win Over Pakistan Despite Fatimas Three-for
T20 Asia Cup: Powered by three-fors from N. Sree Charani and Prema Rawat, India produced a dominant all-round display to secure a convincing seven-wicket victory over Pakistan in the 2026 Womens T20 Asia Cup on Saturday by chasing down 56 in just 8.4 overs at the Dubai International Stadium. The one-sided victory achieved with 68 balls remaining marked India's fifth consecutive T20I win over Pakistan, as Harmanpreet Kaur-led side maintained their unbeaten start to the continental event. Even as India and their fans rejoiced at the victory achieved via a relentless bowling masterclass from their spin quarter, Pakistan were left to rue another dismal performance with the bat after being bundled out for 55 their lowest total in Womens T20Is. Shafali Verma set an explosive tone for the paltry chase by launching the very first delivery from Sadia Iqbal over long-off for a six. Shafali also became the youngest batter to reach 3,000 runs in womens T20Is at 22 years and 220 days, as well as the fastest in terms of balls faced (2,182). Pakistan captain Fatima Sana mounted a spirited fightback when she removed Shafali (12) by extracting a soft leading edge, completed via a caught-and-bowled dismissal, before getting Pratika Rawal (4) caught behind. Fatima struck again in her second over by trapping Smriti Mandhana lbw after the opener hit her for a boundary, leaving India at 29/3 in the fourth over. The three-wicket burst made Fatima just the fourth bowler from a full-member nation to take three wickets in the powerplay overs of a womens T20I twice in her career. However, captain Harmanpreet, playing in her landmark 150th T20I game as the sides skipper, and Deepti Sharma steadied the chase without further alarm. The duo took their time before Deepti released the pressure in the seventh over by stepping out to loft left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu over mid-wicket for four. Harmanpreet and Deepti carefully negotiated the remaining runs, using soft hands and quick running to keep the scoreboard ticking. Harmanpreet capped off the win in style in the ninth over - after surviving a chance that just evaded an outstretched Fatima at mid-on for four, she stepped down the pitch to loft Nashra Sandhu cleanly over long-on for a six, as India signed off from the league stage with a hat-trick of wins. However, captain Harmanpreet, playing in her landmark 150th T20I game as the sides skipper, and Deepti Sharma steadied the chase without further alarm. The duo took their time before Deepti released the pressure in the seventh over by stepping out to loft left-arm spinner Nashra Sandhu over mid-wicket for four. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Pakistan 55 all out in 18.1 overs (Shawaal Zulfiqar 14, Muneeba Ali 13; N Sree Charani 3-7, Prema Rawat 3-9) lost to India 57/3 in 8.4 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 18 not out, Shafali Verma 12; Fatima Sana 3-170 by seven wickets Article Source: IANS
Women's Asia Cup: India Women Crush Pakistan In Dubai
Shree Charani and Prema Rawat wreaked havoc with the ball as a dominant India trounced Pakistan by seven wickets in a one-sided match in the Women's Asia Cup in Dubai on Saturday.
India Beat Pakistan by 7 Wickets in One-Sided Women
India delivered an exceptional overall display to defeat Pakistan by seven wickets in the Women's Asia Cup 2026. Batting with a meagre total of 56 to chase, India managed to chase down their target with 68 balls to spare, emphasizing the
Womens Asia Cup T20: Spinners headline Indias crushing 7-wicket win vs Pakistan
Charanis killer 3 for 7, along with young leg-spinner Prema Rawats 3 for 9, turned the match upside down after Pakistan kicked things off with a decent 27 without loss, but then Indias bowlers flipped the script, taking six wickets for just 9 runs and leaving Pakistan reeling
India hammer Pakistan in Asia Cup, register seven-wicket win after bundling them for 55 runs
India decimated Pakistan in their marquee clash in the ongoing Asia Cup 2026 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side registered a comfortable seven-wicket win in the middle and, with that, moved...
Historic! Harmanpreet first captain to lead in 150 T20Is
India's Harmanpreet Kaur has become the first cricketer, male or female, to captain a team in 150 T20 Internationals.
55 All Out: Pakistan Suffer Nightmare As India's Spinners Take Control
Left-arm spinner Shree Charani was the star performer, returning brilliant figures of 3 for 7, with able support from young leg-spinner Prema Rawat, as India dismantled Pakistan for a paltry 55 in 18.1 overs
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Womens Asia Cup: Charani, Prema Pick Three Each As India Bowl Out Pakistan For Just 55
Dubai International Stadium: Left-arm spinner N Sree Charani and leg-spin bowling all-rounder Prema Rawat claimed three wickets apiece as India skittled out Pakistan for a paltry 55 in 18.1 overs, their lowest total in Womens T20Is, in the Womens Asia Cup Group A at the Dubai International Stadium in Dubai on Saturday. On a pitch offering grip and sharp turn, as well as swing for the pacers, Charani, Prema, Deepti Sharma, and Shafali Verma proved to be unplayable, as the relentless spin quarter consistently deceived the Pakistani batters with flight and forced them to perish by playing loose, off-side strokes outside their reach. India are now overwhelming favourites to knock off the required 56 runs in quick time and sign off from the league stage as the lone unbeaten side in Group A. For Pakistan, barring openers Shawaal Zulfiqar and Muneeba Ali, none of the batters reached double figures, as they went from 27/0 to 55/6, making the contest a one-sided affair yet again. Electing to bat first, a decision which surprised many, Pakistans openers were scratchy from the outset. Kranti Gauds opening delivery seamed away to beat Muneeba's outside edge, before Shawaal struck consecutive boundaries off her and Nandni Sharma. Muneeba survived two early dropped chances, both off Pratika Rawal, before off-spinner Shafali provided the breakthrough by castling her for 13. The wicket triggered a collapse as top-ranked T20I bowler Charani struck twice in the final powerplay over, removing Gull Feroza for a duck and trapping Shawaal lbw for 14. Charani then picked up her third scalp by having Ayesha Zafar caught at mid-on by captain Harmanpreet Kaur, playing her 150th game as Indias captain. Rawat then joined the wicket-takers party by castling Sadaf Shamas, before Deepti Sharma trapped Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana lbw for a duck. Eyman Fatima provided brief resistance by hitting the innings' final boundary off Prema, but a tragic mix-up with Umm-e-Hani saw her run out for five. Prema came back to dismiss Umm-e-Hani with a top-edged sweep to short fine leg, before catching Nashra Sandhu off her own bowling to finish with figures of 3-9. Charani picked 3-7 from her four overs, thus maintaining her rich vein of form. By extracting sharp turn, consistent drift, and maintaining impeccable control of length, Charani was at the peak of her power, as Pakistans attempts to attack her ended in abject failure, with lobbed catches to the infield. Deepti wrapped up the innings in the 19th over by deceiving Tuba Hassan (9) in flight, as wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh completed a sharp stumping in a solid day of wicketkeeping, as Pakistan completely unravelled after showing early intent against Indias disciplined spinners. By extracting sharp turn, consistent drift, and maintaining impeccable control of length, Charani was at the peak of her power, as Pakistans attempts to attack her ended in abject failure, with lobbed catches to the infield. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Pakistan 55 all out in 18.1 overs (Shawaal Zulfiqar 14, Muneeba Ali 13; N Sree Charani 3-7, Prema Rawat 3-9) against India Article Source: IANS
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Womens Asia Cup 2026 : Muzumdar Hails Harmanpreet On Landmark 150th T20I As Captain
Asia Cup T20: India head coach Amol Muzumdar lauded captain Harmanpreet Kaur on Saturday after she became the first cricketer, in both mens and womens international cricket, to lead her country in 150 T20 international games. Harmanpreet reached the historic milestone during India's ongoing 2026 Women's Asia Cup Group A match against Pakistan at the Dubai International Stadium, further cementing her legacy in the shortest format of the game. One thing I have been told is that it is the 150th T20 international for Harman as a captain, the most by anybody. Its the most by anybody, whether it is men's cricket or women's cricket. Well done, Harman. Congrats, Muzumdar said in a video shared on the BCCI's social media channels. The achievement puts Harmanpreet, 37, well ahead of her international peers. Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu is second on the all-time list with 121 matches as captain, followed by Rwandas Marie Bimenyimana with 101 games. By contrast, Namibia's Gerhard Erasmus leads the men's T20I captaincy list with 91 matches, followed by Rwandas Cletus Rubagumya on 90 and Pakistans Babar Azam on 85. Former India skipper MS Dhoni holds the Indian men's record with 72 T20Is as captain. Across her captaincy tenure, Harmanpreet has guided India to 86 victories in T20Is against 57 losses, a win percentage rate exceeding 60 percent. She has captained the India team to three Asia Cup titles in 2012, 2016, and 2022, as well as to silver medal and gold medal wins in the Commonwealth Games and Asian Games respectively. By contrast, Namibia's Gerhard Erasmus leads the men's T20I captaincy list with 91 matches, followed by Rwandas Cletus Rubagumya on 90 and Pakistans Babar Azam on 85. Former India skipper MS Dhoni holds the Indian men's record with 72 T20Is as captain. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Great achievement. But the key is to keep enjoying yourself on the field, and that is key. I try to keep up with that, Harmanpreet had said when asked about leading India for the 150th time in T20Is at toss time. Article Source: IANS
Pakistan register their lowest-ever T20I score as India bundle them for 55 runs in Asia Cup
Indian spinners delivered a dominant display against arch-rivals Pakistan in the ongoing Asia Cup 2026. After opting to bat first, the Fatima Sana-led side struggled for momentum and looked particularly vulnerable against Indias spin attack,...
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Women's Asia Cup: No handshake again between India and Pakistan
The captains of India and Pakistan women's cricket teams, Harmanpreet Kaur and Fatima Sana, once again refrained from shaking hands at the toss during their Women's Asia Cup 2026 match in Dubai.
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India Captain Harmanpreet Kaur Avoids Handshake With Her Pakistan Counterpart At Toss. Video Viral
Pakistan skipper Fatima Sana won the toss and opted to bat first against India in their Women's Asia Cup 2026 clash in Dubai on Saturday.
Womens Asia Cup: No handshake protocol continues in India-Pakistan Group A clash
Dubai, Sep 5 (IANS) India and Pakistan continued their strict no-handshake protocol in the 2026 Women's Asia Cup clash at the Dubai International on Saturday, with captains Harmanpreet Kaur and Fatima Sana avoiding the traditional pre-match greeting at toss time. When former Sri Lanka player Farveez Maharoof called Fatima to speak after she won the toss, there was no handshake between her and India captain Harmanpreet Kaur. After the toss proceedings were over, the handshake didnt happen at all. It follows a policy adopted by Indian cricket teams across senior, age-group, and women's teams games following diplomatic tensions between the two nations since April 2025. Speaking ahead of the start of the tournament, India head coach Amol Muzumdar had brushed aside queries regarding the no-handshake protocol. Look, we try to play the best cricket on the ground and off the field stuff, we don't focus on it. We try to play the best cricket that we know on that particular day and we will speak about this when we play that game. But at the moment, we are focusing on tomorrow's game. One game at a time, Muzumdar had said at that time. The decision to avoid formal pleasantries traces back to September 2025 during the Men's Asia Cup held in the UAE, when the Suryakumar Yadav-led Indian side avoided handshakes with Salman Ali Agha's team across all three encounters, including during the tournament final in Dubai. Since then, Indian teams have consistently maintained their no handshake stance. The Indian women's team followed the policy during their Women's ODI World Cup fixture against Pakistan in Colombo in October 2025, while similar scenes occurred at the Men's Rising Stars Asia Cup in November 2025. The pattern extended through the Under-19 Asia Cup in December 2025, as well as the Under-19 World Cup and the Men's T20 World Cup in February 2026. Most recently, in June 2026, Harmanpreet's team opted against shaking hands with Pakistani players during their Women's T20 World Cup meeting in Birmingham in June. In a pre-tournament press conference in Dubai, Harmanpreet refrained from offering a definitive answer when asked if the protocol would remain active for the latest installment of the rivalry. But Saturday's toss confirmed that the no handshake stance remains firmly in place.
Womens Asia Cup 2026 : Both Teams Unchanged As Pakistan Elect To Bat First Against India
Dubai International Stadium: Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first against India in the Group A clash of the 2026 Womens Asia Cup at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday. Both teams are unchanged from their respective last clashes in the continental event. India have won nine of their last 10 T20Is against Pakistan, whose only recent victory against the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side came during the 2022 Asia Cup. Harmanpreet's side has already booked a place in the semifinals after winning their matches against Thailand and Hong Kong-China. Harmanpreet has also become the first player in international cricket, male or female, to lead her side in 150 T20Is. Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu trails Harmanpreet on the all-time list for most T20Is as captain with 121 matches. Definitely happy to be chasing. Our bowling is doing great in this tournament, and it's good getting the opportunity to bowl first. I think while batting it's always about giving ourselves some time and then going for your shots, and I think the first two games we did really well in that department, and hopefully we'll continue. Great achievement (to play 150th T20I game as captain). But the key is to keep enjoying yourself on the field, and that is a key; I try to keep up with that. We will try to restrict them to a small total, so that we don't feel any pressure while chasing, she said. Pakistan, who opened their campaign with a victory over Thailand, need a strong performance ahead of their final group-stage fixture against Hong Kong-China to ensure progress to the last four stage. We're gonna bat first because we want to put a maximum total here. Because we know we have a good bowling side, so we will try to restrict them. We had a good chat with the team, and we just want to play according to the pitch. Playing XIs: We're gonna bat first because we want to put a maximum total here. Because we know we have a good bowling side, so we will try to restrict them. We had a good chat with the team, and we just want to play according to the pitch. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Pakistan: Muneeba Ali (wk), Shawaal Zulfiqar, Gull Feroza, Ayesha Zafar, Sadaf Shamas, Fatima Sana (captain), Umm-e-Hani, Eyman Fatima, Tuba Hassan, Nashra Sandhu, and Sadia Iqbal Article Source: IANS
Womens Asia Cup: Both teams unchanged as Pakistan elect to bat first against India
Dubai, Sep 5 (IANS) Pakistan won the toss and elected to bat first against India in the Group A clash of the 2026 Womens Asia Cup at the Dubai International Stadium on Saturday. Both teams are unchanged from their respective last clashes in the continental event. India have won nine of their last 10 T20Is against Pakistan, whose only recent victory against the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side came during the 2022 Asia Cup. Harmanpreet's side has already booked a place in the semifinals after winning their matches against Thailand and Hong Kong-China. Harmanpreet has also become the first player in international cricket, male or female, to lead her side in 150 T20Is. Sri Lanka skipper Chamari Athapaththu trails Harmanpreet on the all-time list for most T20Is as captain with 121 matches. Definitely happy to be chasing. Our bowling is doing great in this tournament, and it's good getting the opportunity to bowl first. I think while batting it's always about giving ourselves some time and then going for your shots, and I think the first two games we did really well in that department, and hopefully we'll continue. Great achievement (to play 150th T20I game as captain). But the key is to keep enjoying yourself on the field, and that is a key; I try to keep up with that. We will try to restrict them to a small total, so that we don't feel any pressure while chasing, she said. Pakistan, who opened their campaign with a victory over Thailand, need a strong performance ahead of their final group-stage fixture against Hong Kong-China to ensure progress to the last four stage. We're gonna bat first because we want to put a maximum total here. Because we know we have a good bowling side, so we will try to restrict them. We had a good chat with the team, and we just want to play according to the pitch. Playing XIs: India: Smriti Mandhana, Shafali Verma, Pratika Rawal, Harmanpreet Kaur (captain), Bharti Fulmali, Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Prema Rawat, Nandani Sharma, Sree Charani, and Kranti Gaud Pakistan: Muneeba Ali (wk), Shawaal Zulfiqar, Gull Feroza, Ayesha Zafar, Sadaf Shamas, Fatima Sana (captain), Umm-e-Hani, Eyman Fatima, Tuba Hassan, Nashra Sandhu, and Sadia Iqbal
Unchanged Pakistan choose to bat against unchanged India
Harmanpreet Kaur is captaining India for the 150th time in T20Is
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Leus du Plooy to leave Middlesex as he targets South Africa cap
Club captain will give up local status in county cricket in bid to represent nation of birth
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Leus Du Plooy To Leave Middlesex At End Of Season To Pursue South Africa Ambitions
Cricket Alan Coleman: Middlesex captain Leus du Plooy will leave the county at the end of the 2026 season to recommit to South Africa in a bid to pursue his international cricket ambitions, the club announced on Saturday. Left-handed batter Du Plooy's original contract was set to run till 2027 as a local player, but his switch back to South Africa, the country of his birth, renders him an overseas player and invalidates the existing deal. I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone at Middlesex for the incredible support Ive received during my time at the club, both as a player and as captain. My time at Middlesex has meant a huge amount to me, and Im incredibly grateful for the opportunities, friendships, memories and experiences Ive had along the way. It has been a real privilege to represent the club and, in particular, to have had the honour of captaining Middlesex. The decision to leave was an extremely difficult one and certainly not something I have taken lightly. Ultimately, an opportunity has arisen for me to explore the possibility of representing South Africa, and I feel that I owe it to myself to see where that opportunity might lead, said Du Plooy in a statement by the club. Du Plooy, 31, joined Middlesex from Derbyshire ahead of the 2024 season. He has since scored 2,795 runs in 38 first-class appearances at an average of 51.75, including seven centuries and a career-best 263 not out against Gloucestershire at Lord's in 2025. He assumed the club captaincy in June 2025 and was awarded his county cap in May 2026. It is something I have always dreamed of, but I also understand what an incredible privilege it would be to actually play for my country. I want to make it clear how grateful I am to Middlesex for the way the club has supported me throughout this process. I have been fortunate to have had such a strong relationship with the club, and the understanding and support shown in helping me make this decision has meant a great deal. I will always be incredibly proud of my time at Middlesex. The club will always hold a very special place in my heart, and Im hugely thankful to everyone who has played a part in my journey, added Du Plooy. Middlesex Director of Cricket Alan Coleman expressed disappointment over his departure, even as he backed the batter to chase his international cricket goals. We are naturally disappointed that Leus will be leaving Middlesex at the end of this season, but are happy to support his decision to further his international aspirations. I will always be incredibly proud of my time at Middlesex. The club will always hold a very special place in my heart, and Im hugely thankful to everyone who has played a part in my journey, added Du Plooy. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Leus has given his all in a Middlesex shirt, and we thank him for all he has done for the Club in his time here. He will always be welcome back here at Middlesex as an overseas player. To average over 50 in First Class cricket for the club marks him down as one of our finest performers in this format, he added. Article Source: IANS
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Du Plooy to leave Middlesex at end of season to pursue South Africa ambitions
London, Sep 5 (IANS) Middlesex captain Leus du Plooy will leave the county at the end of the 2026 season to recommit to South Africa in a bid to pursue his international cricket ambitions, the club announced on Saturday. Left-handed batter Du Plooy's original contract was set to run till 2027 as a local player, but his switch back to South Africa, the country of his birth, renders him an overseas player and invalidates the existing deal. I want to express my sincere gratitude to everyone at Middlesex for the incredible support Ive received during my time at the club, both as a player and as captain. My time at Middlesex has meant a huge amount to me, and Im incredibly grateful for the opportunities, friendships, memories and experiences Ive had along the way. It has been a real privilege to represent the club and, in particular, to have had the honour of captaining Middlesex. The decision to leave was an extremely difficult one and certainly not something I have taken lightly. Ultimately, an opportunity has arisen for me to explore the possibility of representing South Africa, and I feel that I owe it to myself to see where that opportunity might lead, said Du Plooy in a statement by the club. Du Plooy, 31, joined Middlesex from Derbyshire ahead of the 2024 season. He has since scored 2,795 runs in 38 first-class appearances at an average of 51.75, including seven centuries and a career-best 263 not out against Gloucestershire at Lord's in 2025. He assumed the club captaincy in June 2025 and was awarded his county cap in May 2026. It is something I have always dreamed of, but I also understand what an incredible privilege it would be to actually play for my country. I want to make it clear how grateful I am to Middlesex for the way the club has supported me throughout this process. I have been fortunate to have had such a strong relationship with the club, and the understanding and support shown in helping me make this decision has meant a great deal. I will always be incredibly proud of my time at Middlesex. The club will always hold a very special place in my heart, and Im hugely thankful to everyone who has played a part in my journey, added Du Plooy. Middlesex Director of Cricket Alan Coleman expressed disappointment over his departure, even as he backed the batter to chase his international cricket goals. We are naturally disappointed that Leus will be leaving Middlesex at the end of this season, but are happy to support his decision to further his international aspirations. He is an ambitious individual who has always made clear his intention to play international cricket. He feels this is the best decision for him to achieve this, and we wish him all the very best of luck in the future. Leus has given his all in a Middlesex shirt, and we thank him for all he has done for the Club in his time here. He will always be welcome back here at Middlesex as an overseas player. To average over 50 in First Class cricket for the club marks him down as one of our finest performers in this format, he added.
India take on arch-rivals Pakistan in their final Asia Cup 2026 league game at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side arrives for the high-voltage clash following mammoth wins over Thailand and Hong...
Where to watch India vs Pakistan Asia Cup 2026 live on TV and stream online in India?
India set to host arch-rivals Pakistan in Asia Cup 2026 blockbuster clash on Saturday, September 5, at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. The Harmanpreet Kaur-led side registered back-to-back wins in the tournament so far and has already qualified for the semi-finals. In the previous game against Hong Kong, China, star batter Smriti Mandhana stole the show, scoring 124 runs as India registered a comfortable 137-run win.
Cricket Association Of Bengal Felicitates Shami For 100th FC Game Milestone
CAB President Sourav Ganguly: The Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) felicitated India fast bowler Mohammed Shami ahead of his 100th First-class game as the veteran gears up to feature in the Duleep Trophy final for East Zone from Sunday onwards at the MA Chidambaram Stadium. CAB treasurer Sanjay Das presented Shami with a special No.100 jersey, which was signed by CAB President and former India captain Sourav Ganguly. He was also presented with a signed ball from Ganguly and a silver plaque, as the veteran also sliced the cake to mark the celebrations for the milestone. In the Duleep Trophy final at the M. A. Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on Sunday, Mohammed Shami will be playing his milestone 100th first-class match, CAB wrote in a caption to pictures from the ceremony. To mark this special occasion, the Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) Treasurer Sanjay Das, on behalf of CAB President Sourav Ganguly, felicitated the veteran fast bowler in Chennai on Saturday. Das presented Shami with a special No.100 Bengal jersey signed by Ganguly, a special ball signed by the former India captain, along with a silver plaque, the board added. Meanwhile, Shami was also handed a jersey signed by his East Zone teammates as captain Ishan Kishan, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Mukesh Kumar were pictured with the 36-year-old speedster. All of the East Zone team members also received a sweet box, which had a message from Ganguly. You dont play finals to participate; you play them to win. Play aggressive, play for each other, and make the East Zone proud. Bring the Duleep Trophy home, boys! Best of Luck, the message, as quoted by the CAB, read. Earlier in the day, East captain Ishan hailed Shami's motivation and hunger and emphasised that he still harbours a dream of an India return. I feel age is just a number, Ishan said on the eve of the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone. If he is working hard, it doesn't matter - he has been doing so well. Having him in our team gives us a bit more confidence, when you have such bowlers in your team who can get you wickets and especially looking at Shami bhai this season, his intensity, his energy have been very different. Earlier in the day, East captain Ishan hailed Shami's motivation and hunger and emphasised that he still harbours a dream of an India return. I feel age is just a number, Ishan said on the eve of the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I think he has that hunger and that motivation right now. He wants to do that comeback; he wants to be part of the Indian squad again, and which you can see in him, when he is trying to help me, also when I'm leading the side... he is trying to come to me, give me options of what you can do right now, he added. Article Source: IANS
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UP T20: Bhuvneshwar's Lucknow Falcons Set To Take On Rinku-led Meerut Mavericks In Final
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: The Lucknow Falcons are set to take on Meerut Mavericks in the grand finale of the UP T20 League, to be played at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium on Sunday. The title clash pits prominent Indian internationals against each other, as Bhuvneshwar Kumar leads the Lucknow Falcons against Rinku Singhs Meerut Mavericks. The Meerut Mavericks have achieved the remarkable feat of qualifying for the final in all four seasons and are seeking their second title, while the Lucknow Falcons have entered their maiden final, and are aiming to lift the trophy for the first time in front of their home crowd. The Lucknow Falcons enter the final on a seven-match unbeaten streak, marking an impressive turnaround after a difficult start to the tournament where they lost three of their opening four matches. The Falcons rebounded by winning five of their subsequent six league games (with one game washed out) to finish second in the standings with 13 points. They booked their place directly in the final with a convincing win over Meerut in Qualifier 1, anchored by a decisive spell of 4-10 from captain Bhuvneshwar. The Falcons campaign has been bolstered by consistent batting performances from Ajeet Verma and Mohammad Saif, who have compiled 263 and 233 runs, respectively. Leg-spin bowling all-rounder Vipraj Nigam has delivered in crucial moments down the order, maintaining a strike rate close to 160 alongside taking 11 wickets. The bowling unit remains their primary strength, led economically by Bhuvneshwar (13 wickets at an economy rate under 6) and fellow pacer Abhinandan Singh, who sits second in the Purple Cap standings with 21 wickets. Meanwhile, the Mavericks established their authority early in the season by registering seven consecutive victories, eventually securing top spot on the points table with 15 points. Despite enduring a late-season dip, comprising a washout, two consecutive league defeats, and a loss in Qualifier 1, the Mavericks demonstrated their pedigree by defeating the Noida Kings by six wickets in Qualifier 2 to maintain their unblemished record of reaching every UP T20 League final. Meeruts batting lineup features the tournament's most explosive performers. Opener Swastik Chikara has accumulated 308 runs at a strike rate of 166.49, while captain Rinku has provided reliable finishing power with 240 runs at a tournament-high strike rate of 171. Despite enduring a late-season dip, comprising a washout, two consecutive league defeats, and a loss in Qualifier 1, the Mavericks demonstrated their pedigree by defeating the Noida Kings by six wickets in Qualifier 2 to maintain their unblemished record of reaching every UP T20 League final. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories With both franchises fielding balanced squads capable of lifting the trophy, Sunday's finale promises a closely contested finish to determine the champion of the UP T20 League 2026. Article Source: IANS
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Former West Indies: Former West Indies captain Brian Lara has become the latest ex-international skipper to join the chorus voicing support for the imprisoned former Pakistan captain Imran Khan and his treatment. Lara took to social media to voice his support for Imran, calling for proper, independent medical care and dignity every human deserves as he stood with former international captains who have raised the issue of Imran's health in prison. Imran Khan and I only crossed paths on the field a handful of times, but the respect I have for him was instant and lasting, Lara wrote in his Instagram post. I am struggling to understand how someone who was once a beacon of hope, pride and inspiration for his country, at the height of his sporting career, could now find himself in a situation where he is not being cared for and treated with the compassion and dignity he deserves. I stand with my fellow former captains in asking that he receive proper, independent medical care and the dignity every human being deserves. This isn't politics. It's basic humanity for a legend of our game, he added. Lara's statements came days after the likes of Greg Chappell, Pat Cummins, Javed Miandad, Moin Khan and Kapil Dev voiced their concerns over Imran's health and treatment. Earlier, 21 former international captains had signed a petition demanding dignified treatment and proper court-directed medical care for the jailed 1992 World Cup-winning captain. The petition was signed by 21 former international captains, including Sir Alastair Cook, Michael Atherton, Steve Waugh, Adam Gilchrist, and Nasser Hussain, and expressed grave concern over Khan's health, particularly reports regarding significant vision loss in his right eye, after he spent over three years in custody. Imran Khan is 73 years old and has now spent more than three years in custody. Whatever the legal and political arguments surrounding his case, the basic decency of ensuring a court-ordered medical process is actually completed is not, in our view, a controversial request, the letter stated. The petition was signed by 21 former international captains, including Sir Alastair Cook, Michael Atherton, Steve Waugh, Adam Gilchrist, and Nasser Hussain, and expressed grave concern over Khan's health, particularly reports regarding significant vision loss in his right eye, after he spent over three years in custody. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The petitioners described themselves as 'former colleagues and rivals who share a bond forged on the cricket field' that 'transcends the borders and disputes that too often divide countries'. Article Source: IANS
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Raina Backs Pant To Return To White-ball Setup, Urges Him To Play With Freedom
ODI World Cup: Former India batter Suresh Raina believes wicketkeeper-batter Rishabh Pant possesses the required talent to replicate his stellar Test cricket form in white-ball formats, provided he plays without hesitation and navigates through mental blockages. Despite being a match-winner for India in Tests, Pant has been unable to establish himself in the white-ball setup. Though hes played 31 ODIs and 76 T20Is, Pant last played both white-ball formats for India in 2024. He was an unused member of the 2025 Mens Champions Trophy-winning Indian team, before being left out of the ODI team from the series against Afghanistan in June. He is my favourite player. I think what Rishabh has done is that hes playing well and scoring tremendously in the Test matches. No, no, he is working hard. Dhruv Jurel is doing well; Sanju Samson is there. But Rishabh has that x-factor. What I feel and think is that hes slowly maturing. You are talking about the white ball side of things, but its even true in the case of IPL, Raina said to Aakash Chopra on his YouTube channel. Despite Pants established pedigree in the longest format of the game, his consistency in white-ball international cricket has drawn scrutiny. I think he has done really well, as everyone knows, as far as Test matches are concerned. But why is the same not happening in T20Is or ODIs? Is he looking for something in his mind? What is it? I think he needs to figure out how to pace an innings there. In the Test matches, he used to play without any hesitation. Now if he has to hit a six there, he will hit on the very first ball, noted Raina. The former left-handed batter, who was a member of the teams that won the 2011 ODI World Cup and 2013 Champions Trophy, suggested that being free in his batting style can help Pant, who didnt have memorable IPL 2025 and 2026 campaigns with Lucknow Super Giants before moving back to Delhi Capitals right after this years tournament. Is he looking for something in his mind? What is it? I think he needs to figure out how to pace an innings there. In the Test matches, he used to play without any hesitation. Now if he has to hit a six there, he will hit on the very first ball, noted Raina. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He needs to be free in his style. He can achieve a lot. In the future, I think, God willing, he will do well because he has gone through so much - his setback and all. He will do it one day his time will come, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
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Afghanistan T20Is: Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan admitted that the short turnaround between the end of the Duleep Trophy final and the start of the Afghanistan T20I series is difficult but that it is their job to adapt as the two players gear up for a quick switch between formats. Tilak and Ishan will be leading the South Zone and East Zone, respectively, in the Duleep Trophy final, which gets underway on Sunday at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. The scheduled end of the final is on September 10, three days before the T20I series against Afghanistan commences from September 13 onwards. Not only is the gap between the two events short, but also the complete change of formats and the playing approach stands different, as Ishan, Tilak, along with Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, gear up for the red-ball and the T20I challenge in the next few days. Speaking during the pre-match press conference, the two cricketers spoke on the short turnaround. I don't know. How do I tell you? It's just about knowing what format you are playing, Ishan said on the eve of the final. Sometimes it gets difficult when you are playing a Test match, and suddenly you have to go and start hitting from ball one, and suddenly you have to go back to your domestic team, and you have to play a whole different role. But at the same time, I feel, as professionals, it's our job to adapt; we cannot be coming up with excuses after knowing this is like your routine for the next few days. So, it is better not to be in a situation where we have to make excuses, but at the same time be aware and be just mindful of what is going to happen, and I will be playing T20 after this. So my job will be different [in T20Is], but still I feel we are getting two days of practice before the Afghanistan first game, so it will be more than enough, I feel, he added. Meanwhile, Tilak agreed with Ishan's remarks, calling the turnaround slightly challenging but felt the two-day gap between is enough. But it will be slightly challenging playing five days here and again joining the [T20I] team. But from here we are going to Delhi; there will be two days of break, so we can practice there and we have enough time as well, but it will be slightly challenging. We know how to change our mindsets and maintain our body with good fluids and everything, so we have played back-to-back games before in the domestic as well as international, so we are quite used to it, Tilak said. Meanwhile, Tilak agreed with Ishan's remarks, calling the turnaround slightly challenging but felt the two-day gap between is enough. But it will be slightly challenging playing five days here and again joining the [T20I] team. But from here we are going to Delhi; there will be two days of break, so we can practice there and we have enough time as well, but it will be slightly challenging. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories East Zone are looking for their first Duleep Trophy title since 2012-13, when they defeated Central Zone in the final to lift their second trophy, while South have been far more successful, having won 12 titles, with their last coming in 2023. Article Source: IANS
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'Intensity, Energy Is Different': Ishan Sees 'hunger And Motivation' In Shami For India Return
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Despite being away from the International team, Ishan Kishan sees the hunger and motivation in veteran fast bowler Mohammed Shami in his bid for an India comeback after repeated strong performances in the domestic circuit. Shami has not played an international game since India's 2025 Champions Trophy win in early 2025 and has not been picked in any squads despite turning up and performing in the domestic arena across formats. However, Ishan, who is leading Shami in the Duleep Trophy for East Zone, can see the intensity and energy in the 36-year-old, stating that the veteran still keeps an India return in his wish list. I feel age is just a number, Ishan said on the eve of the Duleep Trophy final against South Zone. If he is working hard, it doesn't matter - he has been doing so well. Having him in our team, it gives us a bit more confidence when you have such bowlers in your team who can get you wickets and especially looking at Shami bhai this season, his intensity, his energy has been very different. Ishan emphasised Shami's motivation to play for the domestic sides despite not being in the scheme of things for the national selectors for now. It has been three years since that (2023) World Cup (when he was in excellent form); it is hard when you are not regularly playing for Indian team and to again have that same kind of motivation for your domestic games, it is tough. But I feel I see that hunger in him because who better than me can judge about hunger right now? If he is working hard, it doesn't matter - he has been doing so well. Having him in our team, it gives us a bit more confidence when you have such bowlers in your team who can get you wickets and especially looking at Shami bhai this season, his intensity, his energy has been very different. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Shami has been prolific in the domestic arena. He picked 37 wickets in the Ranji Trophy 2025-26 at an average of 16.72 and was the second-highest wicket-taker for Bengal. In the 2025-26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, a T20 tournament, Shami was Bengal's leading wicket-taker, with 16 scalps in seven innings, and he was also the highest wicket-taker for his state in the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26, a 50-over tournament, where he took 15 wickets in seven innings. Article Source: IANS
Tilak, Ishan Open Up on Rapid Red-Ball to T20 Format Switch
Indian cricketers Tilak Varma and Ishan Kishan discuss the challenges of transitioning directly from the Duleep Trophy final to the T20I series against Afghanistan. Both players emphasise the importance of adaptability and professionalism in managing the demanding schedule and format changes, while also highlighting key player additions to their respective Duleep Trophy teams.
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BCCI To Send Team To Dubai FTP Workshop, Seeks Wider Gap Between Internationals
T20I Nidahas Trophy: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will send its operations team to a workshop on the Future Tours Programme (FTP) as part of its bid to widen the gap between international matches. The Indian Board recently confirmed that it has instructed its FTP personnel to schedule matches so that players can get proper rest after several players suffered injuries due to gruelling schedules. According to a Cricbuzz report, a workshop on the FTP is scheduled to take place in Dubai on 22 and 23 September, and the BCCI will send its operations team to the meeting to discuss the international FTP matches for 2027-31. Meanwhile, operations teams from all other boards are expected to attend the meeting, and representatives from the top eight Associate members will be invited. Speaking after a meeting with the BCCI CoE head VVS Laxman, India head coach Gautam Gambhir and captains Shubman Gill and Shreyas Iyer, BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia confirmed the instruction given to the FTP personnel. We have instructed our FTP personnel, who will be meeting very soon in various international forums, that our FTP should be scheduled in such a way that it should be scheduled that there is proper rest for the players as well as some kind of acclimatisation through friendly matches before any major series in SENA countries, Saikia said after the meeting on Thursday. The recent injuries to Indian players have sparked this debate. Players such as Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, Nitish Kumar Reddy, Washington Sundar, and B. Sai Sudharsan missed recent tours despite initial conditional selections due to various injuries. For the upcoming T20I series against Afghanistan, the BCCI has named a full-strength squad; however, the participation of players such as Bumrah, Sundar, Reddy and Harshit Rana is 'subject to fitness' due to fitness concerns. Saikia noted the injuries, highlighting the short turnarounds between tournaments as a key factor. Individual players are having injuries because they have to play a lot of matches. If you look at their schedule, in England, we had a 15-player team go for the ODIs, and out of that, three or four players got injured during the match. We have to think that they had played two months of IPL before that. So all this takes a toll on the health of the players. To avoid those kinds of situations under the present window and FTPs, we are trying to find out some ways to tackle it, Saikia added. Meanwhile, the report also noted that the next international calendar could see more multilateral games, a tradition that has become far less common. India's last multilateral series came in 2018, when they played in the T20I Nidahas Trophy. So all this takes a toll on the health of the players. To avoid those kinds of situations under the present window and FTPs, we are trying to find out some ways to tackle it, Saikia added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories This is to attract more eyeballs, as the importance of bilateral series has been declining. Article Source: IANS
SA vs ZIM Final Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI
SA vs ZIM Final, Cricket Tips: The ongoing T20I tri-series in Namibia has come to its final round. The hosts, Namibia, started the tri-series with a win over the Proteas. But they lost the next three games and have been out. It has left South Africa and Zimbabwe to face each other in the final. This final is scheduled to start at 5:30 PM IST on September 6 (Sunday) at Namibia Cricket Ground in Windhoek. South Africa beat Zimbabwe in consecutive matches in this tri-series and are in excellent form. They will be confident for a win. Meanwhile, Zimbabwe have been below-average with the bat, which they need to focus on to win this final. SA vs ZIM: Match Details Date : September 06, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 5:30 PM IST Venue : Namibia Cricket Ground, Windhoek SA vs ZIM: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the tri-series final on the FanCode mobile app or website with a nominal fee. SA vs ZIM: Head-to-Head in T20Is Total Matches : 11 Zimbabwe : 0 South Africa: 10 No-result: 1 SA vs ZIM: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Windhoek has played well for the batting teams. In the last game only, 445 runs were scored in 40 overs. In the last 8-9 days, six matches have been played on this wicket, which has surely played in favor of the batters. However, it is not totally flat and will have some help for the bowling sides as well. SA vs ZIM: Possible XIs Zimbabwe : Brian Bennett, Innocent Kaia, Ben Curran, Wesley Madhavere, Sikandar Raza (c), Ryan Burl, T. Marumani (wk), Wellington Masakadza, Brad Evans, Blessing Muzarabani, Kundai Matigimu. South Africa: Lhuan-dre Pretorius, Dewald Brevis, Jordan Hermann, Connor Esterhuizen (wk), Rubin Hermann, Eathan Bosch, Duan Jansen, Bjorn Fortuin (c), Nqobani Mokoena, Kwena Maphaka, Nqabayomzi Peter SA vs ZIM: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Lhuan-dre Pretorius has scored 101 and 94 in the last two innings, and he is the one to watch out for. For Zimbabwe, Brian Bennett is someone who can play long with a good strike rate. Probable Best Bowler Duan Jansen and Blessing Muzarabani are two tall bowlers in this game, and they will enjoy bowling at this deck. Today Match Prediction: Zimbabwe can surprise the Proteas. But the current form and momentum are with South Africa. Hence, we predict South Africa to win the final against Zimbabwe. SA vs ZIM Match Final, Today Match SA vs ZIM, SA vs ZIM Prediction, SA vs ZIM Predicted XIs, Injury Update for South Africa vs Zimbabwe Match Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.
