TNPL 2026 | Rithik is Royal King, guides team home in a thriller
APL 2026: Denish Das' 52 Powers Barpeta Braves To Four-wicket Win Over Guwahati Royals
Assam Cricket Association Stadium: Captain Denish Das led from the front with a half-century as Barpeta Braves chased down Guwahati Royals' 137-run target to register a four-wicket victory in the Assam Premier League (APL) 2026 at the Assam Cricket Association Stadium in Guwahati on Thursday. The win lifted Barpeta Braves to third place in the points table with eight points from seven matches, while Guwahati Royals slipped to second, also on 10 points, behind table-toppers Dibrugarh Warriors on net run rate. Put into bat, Guwahati Royals were given a steady start by Sanjay Kumar Singh and captain Rishav Das after Rohit Sen was dismissed early. Rishav anchored the innings with a composed 39 off 35 balls, while Nibir Deka contributed 33 off 34 deliveries. Jyoti Deka added 14 to take the Royals to 136/6 in their 20 overs. Barpeta Braves' bowlers kept the Royals under control by picking up wickets at regular intervals. Shubham Kumar Gupta was the pick of the attack with two wickets. In reply, Barpeta Braves made a positive start through Saurav Mousum Dihingia, who struck 23 off 18 balls, including two fours and two sixes. After his dismissal, Pranjal Paul played a patient knock of 24 off 35 deliveries before Denish Das took charge of the chase. The Barpeta skipper produced a captain's innings, hitting 52 off 41 balls and striking five fours. His assured knock kept the chase on course through the middle overs, while Abhilash Maurya added a valuable 19 off 16 balls. With the target within reach, Arun Sonar provided the finishing touch with an unbeaten seven off just two deliveries, including a six. Barpeta Braves reached 137/6 in 19.4 overs to complete a four-wicket victory and move into third place in the standings. Brief scores: Guwahati Royals 136/6 in 20 overs (Rishav Das 39, Nibir Deka 33, Sanjay Kumar Singh 17; Shubham Kumar Gupta 2/35) Brief scores: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Barpeta Braves beat Guwahati Royals by 4 wickets Article Source: IANS
Ali, Abbas share six as Pakistan warm up for England Tests
England opener Emilio Gay makes 12-ball duck and drops catch on tough opening day
Bangladesh Pacer Hasan Mahmud Rips Australia Apart, Makes History In 1st Test
It was a historic day for Bangladesh pacers Hasan Mahmud, who took the best-ever figures by a bowler from his country against Australia and Taskin Ahmed, who completed 300 international wickets, during the first Test against the 2023 World Test Champions at Darwin on Thursday.
UPT20 League: No Pressure Of Captaincy; We Are Built For Challenges, Says Meerut's Rinku Singh
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Meerut Mavericks captain Rinku Singh expressed sheer confidence in his squad's consistency and said they are expecting to perform well in the upcoming Season 4 of the UPT20 League. Our team has consistently performed brilliantly; we have played the finals for the last three seasons and won the title as well. There is no pressure of captaincy; we are built for challenges! My strategy is very straightforward: I tell every player in the team to give their 100% on the field without any pressure whenever they get a chance, Rinku Singh explained in the Captains' Meet, the official countdown to Uttar Pradeshs most prestigious cricketing event held in Lucknow on Thursday. League Chairman Dr. Sanjay Kapoor unveiled the blueprint and special initiatives for the upcoming season in the presence of the captains and representatives from all six franchise teams. With a massive prize pool of 3 crore at stake, the 34-match tournament will be broadcast live across 150 countries globally. The star-studded event featured the leadership of all six franchises on stage, including Bhuvneshwar Kumar (Lucknow Falcons), Rinku Singh (Meerut Mavericks), Sameer Rizvi (Kanpur Superstars), Madhav Kaushik (Noida Kings), Aryan Juyal (Gorakhpur Lions), and Bhupendra Yadav (representing Kashi Rudras). Setting a deeply collaborative tone, Chairman Dr. Sanjay Kapoor addressed the media with a heartfelt message. This league does not belong to one individual, but to all of us. The media is a part of our family. Until you are completely satisfied, neither the soundbites will stop nor the photographs. If there are any shortcomings, please forgive us; together we will make this festival a success, he stated. The tournament will kick off on August 14 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium with a glittering opening ceremony featuring live concerts by musical maestro Shankar Mahadevan and celebrated singer Jasmine Sandlas, complemented by synchronised drone and light shows. In a major, fan-first initiative aimed at providing relief to stadium-goers, Dr. Kapoor also announced that all food and beverages, including drinking water, will be sold strictly at Maximum Retail Price (MRP) inside the venues. Highlighting the transformative impact of the league and Rajeev Shukla's vision for unearthing grassroots talent, Dr. Kapoor shared a remarkable success story from the UPCA Speed Hunt. We conducted the Speed Hunt without charging any trial fees. Shubham Gautam, who bowled at speeds of 144-145 kmph, entered the auction with a base price of 2.5 lakh and was eventually sold for 21.5 lakh. This is the biggest success of this league, he proudly noted. The franchise captains also shared their insights and strategies ahead of the season. Lucknow Falcons captain Bhuvneshwar Kumar reflected on his team's past campaigns, stating, In the last two seasons, our team's performance was not up to expectations, and we missed out on the trophy. This time, we identified our weaknesses in the auction and have built a balanced team. While IPL experience will be useful, T20 cricket is a game of 11 players. We will step onto the field creating a positive atmosphere to clinch the title this time. We conducted the Speed Hunt without charging any trial fees. Shubham Gautam, who bowled at speeds of 144-145 kmph, entered the auction with a base price of 2.5 lakh and was eventually sold for 21.5 lakh. This is the biggest success of this league, he proudly noted. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Young captains Sameer Rizvi, Madhav Kaushik, and Aryan Juyal echoed a unified sentiment, emphasising that the UPT20 League has provided them with the ultimate platform to prove their talent. They highlighted the influx of new and energetic players into the squads this year, promising an incredibly thrilling competition. Article Source: IANS
'Why Would You Not Do It?' Jasprit Bumrah's Workload Management Back In Focus
Jasprit Bumrah is one player whom many, including Ravichandran Ashwin, believe should be preserved like a national treasure
APL 2026: Dipak's Four-fer, Ghadigaonkar's Fifty Seal 7-wicket Win For Charaideo Sunrisers
Assam Premier League: Charaideo Sunrisers dominated proceedings as they chased down 129 in commanding fashion to beat Jorhat Stallions by seven wickets in match number 25 of the Assam Premier League 2026 at the ACA Stadium, Guwahati, on Thursday. With this win, Sunrisers jump to fifth place on the points table. Skipper Sumit Ghadigaonkar anchored the chase with an unbeaten fifty, and a late assault from Reshabh Dipak finished things off in style for Sunrisers. In the first innings, Reshabh Dipak was the standout performer with the ball, picking up four wickets. Having opted to field first, Sunrisers struck early by removing Erik Roy cheaply, with Aditya Roy Chowdhury following soon after to have Stallions in a spot of bother at 25/2. Swarupam Purkayastha kept the scoreboard ticking as he top-scored with 28 off 24 balls before falling to Dipak. Rajveer Singh chipped in with 22, while Dyutimoy Nath provided a brief flourish with 19 off just 7 balls before both batters departed in a span of two overs as Jorhat Stallions lost momentum in the middle overs. The lower order carried Stallions to help them post a modest 128/8 in their 20 overs. Reshabh Dipak finished with excellent figures of 4/18, while Dibakar Johori picked up two wickets, and Himanshu Saraswat and Abhishek Kumar Sing chipped in with one apiece. In response, Charaideo Sunrisers made light work of the target as the openers put on a 58-run stand to lay the platform. Pradyun Saikia got things going with a brisk 25 off 20 balls before being bowled by Dyutimoy Nath. Hrishikesh Tamuli and Kalam Reja both fell cheaply in the middle overs too, giving Stallions a glimmer of hope. However, Ghadigaonkar held firm throughout, remaining unbeaten on 56 off 44 balls with five fours and two sixes. Dipak then capped off an excellent bowling performance by producing a stunning late cameo, smashing an unbeaten 34 off just 11 balls with four sixes to lift Charaideo Sunrisers to 130/3 in 14.3 overs, sealing a comprehensive seven-wicket win. Brief scores: Jorhat Stallions 128/8 in 20 overs (Swarupam Purkayastha 28, Rajveer Singh 22; Reshabh Dipak 4/18, Dibakar Johori 2/24). Brief scores: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Charaideo Sunrisers beat Jorhat Stallions by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Indian Team Sent Grim Message On Ravindra Jadeja And The Need To Look At Future
Former India cricketer Murali Kartik believes the upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka will be crucial for India's spin attack, with Ravindra Jadeja in the wilight of his career
Chasing Cricket Nirvana - Henriques Sets Sights On Guiding Portugal To T20 WC
T20 World Cup: Former Australia all-rounder Moises Henriques has described helping his birth nation Portugal qualify for their maiden mens T20 World Cup as the ultimate nirvana at the twilight of his playing career. Henriques, 39, represented Australia in four Tests, 16 ODIs, and 24 T20Is between 2009 and 2021. After retiring from Australian cricket, he switched allegiances to Portugal. He will captain the side at a European sub-regional qualifying tournament starting in Finland on Friday. Portugal, ranked 37th globally, are placed in Group B alongside the Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, and Israel. Inspired by Italys recent qualification for their debut T20 World Cup, Henriques believes Portugal can follow a similar pathway. Obviously, the ideal, the nirvana, would be to replicate what Italy have done. Whether that's realistic for this World Cup, or the following, I don't know. We'll only be able to tell in a couple of games. I'm sure there's a lot of opposition that feel that they might be able to do something similar, Henriques told the BBC Stumped podcast on Thursday. Born in Funchal on the island of Madeira, Henriques moved to Sydney with his family when he was two. Reflecting on his childhood, he shared how the sport helped him integrate into Australian culture. Moises isn't the most common name going around in an Australian school, especially at that time. I had a few issues at school early on. I didn't speak English that well. Cricket gave me that little bit of confidence I probably needed as a kid to feel a part of something. Having reconnected with his roots during a visit to Madeira last year, Henriques feels a deep emotional connection to his new assignment. When I played for Australia, my family also felt I was representing them as well. I'm representing the motherland, so to speak, and it's going to feel somewhat similar. Hopefully we can make a positive impact trying to grow the sport in Portugal and probably Europe more broadly as well. Henriques admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the standard of his new squad, which includes former South Africa A batter Cameron Shekleton and former New Zealand Under-19 captain Craig Cachopa. I was quietly and pleasantly surprised with the quality of cricketers that we've got in the team. There's a lot of high-level cricketers going around, which I probably wasn't expecting a few years ago when I first started entertaining the thought of playing. Henriques admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the standard of his new squad, which includes former South Africa A batter Cameron Shekleton and former New Zealand Under-19 captain Craig Cachopa. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'm coming out of back surgery about five months ago, so the biggest challenge bowling will be landing on a synthetic wicket after coming off a full run-up. Obviously we train a lot indoors on synthetic wickets, so hopefully I can make the adjustment, concluded Henriques. Article Source: IANS
Stuart Broad Reveals The One Ravindra Jadeja Habit That Annoyed Him
Ravindra Jadeja will be back in action for the Indian cricket team in the two-Test series against Sri Lanka
Vinay Kumar named Karnataka senior men's team head coach
Former India fast bowler R Vinay Kumar has been appointed as the head coach of the Karnataka senior men's cricket team for the 2026-27 domestic season, bringing his extensive experience as a player and captain to the role.
DPL 2026: Shivam Stars As Outer Delhi Warriors Edge West Delhi Lions By Five Wickets
Outer Delhi Warriors: Off-spin bowling all-rounder Shivam Sharma produced an impressive all-round display as Outer Delhi Warriors registered a five-wicket victory over West Delhi Lions in the 2026 Delhi Premier League (DPL) match at the Arun Jaitley Stadium here on Thursday. Electing to bat, defending champions West Delhi Lions were bundled out for 178 in 19.4 overs, as they were hampered by frequent dismissals that prevented them from building substantial middle-order partnerships. The Lions were tottering at 119/7 before skipper Ayush Doseja took charge of the innings. Doseja hit a crucial 59 off 33 balls, laced with six fours and two sixes, and found support in Ajay Rana, who smashed a quickfire 16-ball 27, studded with a four and three sixes, to stitch a valuable 39-run stand for the eighth wicket. Senior left-handed batter Nitish Rana had earlier set a brisk tempo with a fiery 35 off 17 deliveries, laced with two fours and four sixes. For the Warriors, Shivam was the standout performer, returning figures of 3-25 in his four overs. Left-arm spinner Harsh Tyagi provided effective control at the other end by taking 2-17 in his four overs. The Lions were tottering at 119/7 before skipper Ayush Doseja took charge of the innings. Doseja hit a crucial 59 off 33 balls, laced with six fours and two sixes, and found support in Ajay Rana, who smashed a quickfire 16-ball 27, studded with a four and three sixes, to stitch a valuable 39-run stand for the eighth wicket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Akshay Saini then anchored the chase with a composed 42 off 32 balls alongside Mohit Panwar (retired hurt on 31) to keep the required rate within reach. Despite Sainis dismissal causing a late flutter, Shivam (13 not out) and Tyagi (10 not out) re-applied themselves to hold their nerves in the closing stages and steer the Warriors home without further hiccups and be in second spot in the points table, behind table toppers Central Delhi Kings. Article Source: IANS
Former India Seamer Vinay Kumar Appointed Karnataka Senior Mens Head Coach
Karnataka State Cricket Association: Former India right-arm pacer Vinay Kumar has been appointed as head coach of the Karnataka senior mens team for the upcoming 2026/27 domestic season, said the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) on Thursday. Vinay, 42, takes over the reins from Yere Goud, who joined the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) in Bengaluru as a batting coach. Ex-Karnataka batter Deepak Chougule joins his support staff as the fielding coach. This will mark Vinays maiden stint as Karnatakas head coach. He previously coached the Hubli Tigers in the Maharaja T20 Trophy and served as bowling coach for MI Emirates in the ILT20. Following his retirement from all formats in 2021, Vinay also worked as a talent scout for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and commentator for Star Sports Kannada. Vinay represented India in one Test, 31 ODIs, and nine T20Is. He was also part of IPL-winning campaigns with Kolkata Knight Riders in 2014 and Mumbai Indians in 2015 and 2017. He remains the highest wicket-taker among seamers in Ranji Trophy history with 442 wickets and stands in the fourth spot on the all-time list in Indias premier red-ball tournament. This will mark Vinays maiden stint as Karnatakas head coach. He previously coached the Hubli Tigers in the Maharaja T20 Trophy and served as bowling coach for MI Emirates in the ILT20. Following his retirement from all formats in 2021, Vinay also worked as a talent scout for Mumbai Indians in the IPL and commentator for Star Sports Kannada. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Karnataka, who finished as Ranji Trophy runners-up in the last domestic season, are set to kick off their 2026/27 campaign against Andhra on October 11. Former Karnataka and Vidarbha batter Ganesh Satish has been appointed as U23 mens coach, while former player Kunal Kapoor, who was working with the U16s for the past few years, is now U19 mens coach, and SN Ameet will serve as senior womens and U23 head coach. Article Source: IANS
World Test Championship: India are coming off a period of vulnerability against quality spin in series defeats to New Zealand and South Africa at home, and their upcoming two-match challenge in Sri Lanka looms as a genuine litmus test. Facing a Sri Lankan side equally adept at exploiting spin-friendly home conditions and having the Kookaburra ball in hand, Shubman Gill-led India must show that they have made the adjustments to excel in the island nation and stay alive in the race to enter the World Test Championship (WTC) final. In an exclusive chat with IANS, facilitated by Sony Sports Network ahead of the series starting in Galle on Saturday, former India batter WV Raman spoke on why Indian batters must be proactive in making runs on turning tracks, why Rishabh Pant must be granted free license to disrupt the Sri Lankan spinners, how the opening pairing of Yashasvi Jaiswal and KL Rahul balances youthful aggression with seasoned wisdom, and more. Excerpts: - Q. In your opinion, how big is this challenge for India to play Tests in spin-friendly conditions in Sri Lanka after a long time? A. Like India, Sri Lanka is also a formidable opponent at home. They also, quite obviously, can do what India can do in terms of handling spinners and also playing on turning tracks. So, it'll be a stern test for India. Sri Lanka definitely will challenge India quite a bit. It remains to be seen how India fares, especially when you consider they've not really done well at home in Test matches in recent months. So, it's going to be a stiff challenge. But I think a lot has happened since the last time India played Test cricket. So, they might have probably worked out a method and recipe which would see them fare better. Q. India had an unusually long preparation window ahead of this tour. They arrived 11 days early and even won a warm-up game. How critical will this preparation prove to be when adjusting to spin-heavy conditions? A. I won't read much into one particular game before a Test match. I would rather bank on the fact that they might have been working on a few things that they needed to do better, or perhaps the things that they need to do in the Test matches against Sri Lanka. I think that is what I would probably concentrate upon rather than the scorelines that were on display during the game. So, it's all a case of preparation and also how much they kind of narrow their focus leading up to the Test match mentally is what I would be assessing. If at all, I am going to assess their period of 10 days in Sri Lanka before the first Test. Q. How do you evaluate Shubman Gills evolution as a leader, particularly in how he manages his own batting load while navigating some injury concerns along the way? A. I would hope that he continues the great form he was in during the England summer. Quite obviously, he would have gained confidence from the fact that the side has responded to him well. He also would have been involved in a lot of discussions with others as to how to go ahead with his job as captain. Let's not forget one thing - he is a quick learner. He is the one who likes to discuss with a lot of people, and I am sure that we will see Shubman Gill becoming better with each passing Test series. Q. How does Yashasvi Jaiswal find the right balance between attack and defence on Sri Lankan pitches? A. Jaiswal is the kind of player who knows how to get runs when it matters. We have seen him do that in all formats. In international cricket, we have seen him adapt to different pitches in different countries. So, I won't really worry about Yashasvi because he has got that uncanny knack of churning out runs when it matters. I am sure that he will be providing a good foundation for the middle-order batters. He has also got the experience and wisdom of KL Rahul along with him. When they open together, obviously, they will compare notes and complement each other. It will be a good partnership for the Indians because one can play different levels of cricket in terms of aggression and caution, and the other can provide the wisdom. So, it will be a good partnership as far as I see it. Q. How vital is Rishabh Pants presence in the India batting line-up to disrupt Sri Lanka's spin set-up and dictate terms? A. I think Rishabh Pant must be given a free license to play the way he plays. I think he is at his best when he plays his aggressive brand of cricket. He has won a few Test matches abroad from really dire situations. So, I think Rishabh Pant deserves to be given that license. He has got to go and play the way he knows to bat, and that's when he will be at his best. I think if he personally looks at playing more like a Test batter, or somebody where he insists that he bats like a normal Test batter, then it will be a case of him getting into a bit of a tangle. It's so easy to have the wonderful benefit of hindsight, isn't it? But the fact of the matter is that we need to really slot and assess players based on their strengths and their limitations. If you are looking at Rishabh Pant's strengths, as far as I am concerned, his strength is batting aggressively, going after the bowlers, getting runs quickly. But if he were to be asked to bat defensively and in the conventional mode, then what would happen is that there will be a bit of a conflict between his mind and his trained reflexes because the mind will be telling him to try and take it easy. But his responses to a cricket ball will be faster than what his mind is telling him. So, that is not going to really help him. Q. Sri Lankas strategy in home Tests often hinges on relentless bowling from left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya along with Ramesh Mendis and others supporting him. How should Indian batters adapt their footwork and scoring options when facing prolonged spin spells in Galle and Colombo? A. They should go with the mindset that you would get opportunities to score runs on a turning track as well because let's not forget the fact that regardless of what people say, even though people tend to be a bit on the defensive side on turning tracks, the batters have to fancy their chance of getting runs because it's difficult for bowlers also to bowl that particular length on a turner. It's a different length than what they would bowl on a good track. So, unless a bowler is highly experienced and highly crafty, he is going to struggle bowling on turners, which means anything slightly short of length or slightly fuller in length can be made use of because the batter will get the benefit of turn to play with the turn, find the gaps, find the angles. That's why I say that they should look at getting runs more than just being defensive, because turning tracks do also provide batters a fair bit of opportunities to score runs. A. They should go with the mindset that you would get opportunities to score runs on a turning track as well because let's not forget the fact that regardless of what people say, even though people tend to be a bit on the defensive side on turning tracks, the batters have to fancy their chance of getting runs because it's difficult for bowlers also to bowl that particular length on a turner. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS
Meenakshi Lekhi Appointed Chairperson Of Divyang Cricket Control Board Of India
The Divyang Cricket Control Board: Former Union Minister of State for External Affairs Meenakshi Lekhi has taken on a new responsibility as the Chairperson of the Divyang Cricket Control Board of India (DCCBI), the organisation working for and promoting the Indian Divyang Cricket Team and Indian Wheelchair Cricket Team. The announcement of her appointment was made during the grand Divyang Cricket Award Ceremony held in Agra. Addressing the gathering of Divyang cricket players, officials and organisers, Meenakshi Lekhi, a former Member of Parliament, senior social worker, and renowned Supreme Court advocate, said she would discharge this responsibility with complete dedication, sincerity and commitment and would work towards taking Divyang cricket to greater heights at both the national and international levels. Speaking to the players, sge said, 'We should draw inspiration from the life of Lord Shri Ram, who, despite being a prince, followed the wishes of his parents and accepted exile. She emphasised that ones karma is the most important aspect of life and said, Keep performing your duties with honesty and dedication; the path will continue to open before you. She further said the hard work, determination and talent of Divyang athletes are a matter of pride for the nation. Providing Divyang players with not only opportunities on the sporting field but also dignity, recognition and a better future is a collective responsibility. Welcoming Meenakshi Lekhi to her new role, Mukesh Kanchan, President, Divyang Cricket Control Board of India, said, The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India has found a mother in you. The Board was in great need of a mother who could guide her children, teach them to move forward, encourage them to work hard, and inspire them to achieve their goals. We are confident that under your guidance, Divyang cricket will reach new heights. Dr. Bhagwan Talware, President of the Wheelchair Unit, expressed his gratitude for Lekhi joining the Board as Chairperson. He said that her vast experience, leadership abilities, and commitment to social causes would provide new direction and strength to Divyang cricket in India. The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India is working continuously to promote Divyang cricket across the country and expand international cricket opportunities for players. As part of its upcoming international initiatives, the Board is moving forward with plans to organise a Tri-Nation Divyang Cricket Series in Mumbai featuring India, Sri Lanka and Nepal. The proposed series will provide players from all three countries an important international platform to showcase their talent, compete at a higher level and strengthen the spirit of friendship and sportsmanship through cricket. The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India is working continuously to promote Divyang cricket across the country and expand international cricket opportunities for players. As part of its upcoming international initiatives, the Board is moving forward with plans to organise a Tri-Nation Divyang Cricket Series in Mumbai featuring India, Sri Lanka and Nepal. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Divyang Cricket Control Board of India remains committed to providing Divyang athletes with respect, opportunities, professional platforms, and pathways to national and international excellence through cricket. Article Source: IANS
Gautam Gambhir, Shubman Gill Get Clear Message On Sarfaraz Khan As Debate Of India XI Intensifies
After spending most of the last two years outside the national team, Sarfaraz Khan received a call-up for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka after Sai Sudharsan failed to regain fitness in time
Sandeep Warrierto turn out for Chhattisgarh this domestic season
Vinay Kumar appointed Karnataka head coach
Vinay is still the leading wicket-taker among seamers in the Ranji Trophy with 442 strikes
Coach's Death Highlights Player Discipline Concerns
A 62-year-old cricket coach, Sumith Fernando, who mentored Kusal Mendis, died in Colombo following an altercation with two school players over drinking water during a match. A 17-year-old player has been arrested and placed under child probation custody.
WV Raman Backs Sarfaraz To Start Over Jurel For Indias Galle Test Against Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Cricket XI: Former India batter WV Raman said he would prefer Sarfaraz Khan over Dhruv Jurel in the sides playing eleven for the first Test against Sri Lanka, starting in Galle on Saturday, citing the visitors' need for a frontline batter in the middle order who can attack the hosts' spin bowling line-up. India must fill two vacant batting slots from a pool of three players in Devdutt Padikkal, Jurel and Sarfaraz as they open their series against Sri Lanka. With Padikkal expected to seal the number three spot in B Sai Sudharsans absence, the remaining contest is between Jurel and Sarfaraz. I would tend to think in a Test match, you will have to go for the specialist. Dhruv Jurel has done well as a wicketkeeper-batter. He gets some runs. But this man has also done well. The young boy, Sarfaraz Khan. So, I think if you have picked him in the side as a specialist batter for Test cricket, I would rather tend to go with him. But he is also a very good player of spin. He can be an attacking option. The other thing that he will bring to the table is that he is also a good close-in catcher, and that is perhaps something that you would need, especially if Sri Lanka dishes out a turning track, Raman told IANS in an exclusive conversation, facilitated by Sony Sports Network, on Thursday. Both Jurel and Sarfaraz made their Test debut against England at Rajkot in February 2024, and their journeys have been very different since. Jurel has been a regular in the set-up as a wicketkeeping back-up to Rishabh Pant, while also playing as a specialist batter occasionally. A much-fitter Sarfaraz, meanwhile, was called up as a replacement for the injured Sudharsan, thus marking his return to the side after being unused in the 2024/25 Border-Gavaskar Trophy series in Australia. Raman also backed Padikkal to bat at number three, after scoring a sparkling unbeaten 142 from that position in a three-day warm-up against Sri Lanka Cricket XI at the NCC Ground in Colombo. It will be very tempting to try and see other options as well. But I think Padikkal deserves to play, especially when you consider the fact that he is a top-order batter. He is rated as a very good red-ball cricketer and a left-hander at three will come in handy - that's a no-brainer at all. He has got the temperament. He has churned out enough runs in all formats. I think just to put it in one line, he has done enough to warrant a place in the eleven, he added. Shubman Gill-led India are under pressure to win both Tests in the series to stay in contention for the World Test Championship (WTC) final, where they are in the fifth spot in the standings, and are expected to finalise their batting combination in the coming days. He is rated as a very good red-ball cricketer and a left-hander at three will come in handy - that's a no-brainer at all. He has got the temperament. He has churned out enough runs in all formats. I think just to put it in one line, he has done enough to warrant a place in the eleven, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Watch Sri Lanka vs. India 1st Test Day 1 on August 15, 2026, from 10 AM IST live on Sony Sports Ten 1 SD & HD & Sony LIV. Article Source: IANS
Gurkeerat Singh Mann: Punjab Kings spinner Harpreet Brar has opened up about the winding road that eventually led him to the IPL, recalling how he once had to choose between pursuing cricket and joining the Punjab Police, while seven years of repeated selection setbacks tested his patience. Brar, who ultimately broke through after moving to Mohali and impressing in the domestic circuit, says the journey has strengthened his belief that opportunities arrive when their time comes. Brar was 21 and still in college in 2018 when his father, who was in the police force, encouraged him to consider following a similar career path. Instead, the youngster asked for one more year to pursue cricket. Definitely, I think of it many a time. In 2018, when I was in college, my father, who was in the police force, told me that his friends sons were in the police and that I should try too. After a lot of thinking, I told my father that I wanted to play cricket for a year, Brar told IANS in an exclusive interaction. That decision altered the course of his life. Brar got an opportunity at the district level, progressed to the state setup, and eventually established himself as a professional cricketer. At that time, I was 21 years old. I got a chance to play for the district. I did well in the district. Then I did well at the state level. That's how I got selected. I say that this is the turning point of my life, he said. Brar acknowledges that the alternative path could also have brought happiness, but believes the decision to continue with cricket remains the defining choice of his life. If I had been in the police force today, obviously, I would have liked that life, and its not like this life isnt good because I hadnt experienced a cricketers life either. But this was the turning point of my life, he added. The decision to pursue cricket did not immediately lead to success. Brar spent seven years playing association cricket and repeatedly appearing in selection matches without making the cut. Over time, however, repeated rejection began to affect him differently. When someone is rejected constantly, he loses the fear of rejection. The fear of rejection wont disturb him when hes rejected; hell be disturbed when hes selected because itll be a new feeling, a new experience, he mentioned. Brar said that while the initial rejections hurt, they eventually became part of the routine. What kept him going was not simply the hope of selection, but the enjoyment he found in playing the game. When I played for the association for 7 years, I used to play selection matches, but I wasn't selected. At first, it felt different, but then it became common. I wasn't selected every year. But I used to enjoy playing cricket. I had an interest, and it was fun to perform. It's not that I didn't perform in those 7 years. I did perform, but the circumstances were different, Brar recalled. A major breakthrough came when Brar encountered former India and IPL cricketer Gurkeerat Singh Mann during a tournament. Mann's suggestion that Brar try for Mohali would prove decisive. The district I used to play in was minor. The performance there didn't count. Then I met Gurkeerat Singh Mann paaji in a tournament. He saw my game and asked me where I lived. I told him that I lived in Mohali. Then he told me to try for Mohali, Brar said. Brar regards that move as another turning point in a career that has been shaped by a series of seemingly small but significant decisions. The turning point in my career was coming to Mohali because of Mann paaji. He has played for India and also in the IPL for 10-11 years. So that was a turning point. As I said, sometimes you get what is written in your fate, he opined. Brar's connection with cricket goes back much further. As an 11-year-old, he happened to see a flyer for a cricket academy in the market, an encounter that eventually set him on the path towards the professional game. He no longer has the physical flyer, but the idea of tracing an alternate life does not appeal to him. I dont have that flyer; I was too young, just 11 years old. I did not have a phone back then either. And its not like I can comment on what I would have done had I not been a cricketer. Instead, Brar places his journey in the context of destiny and timing. I dont believe in that. I believe that what is written in a person's destiny will definitely reach him. Yes, sometimes it can take some time. But if one is destined to reach there, he will sometime or the other. Behind that journey, Brar credits his parents, particularly his mother, whose efforts included travelling with him in the early hours and helping him navigate the practical difficulties of pursuing cricket. Brar, however, was keen to place his own story within the larger sacrifices made by parents supporting young athletes. It's not just my mother. There are a lot of mothers out there who want their kids to be successful. It's every mother's dream to have her son at her feet. Whatever I want to do, my mother will do it for my son. My mother did the same. Obviously, I am very thankful to her. I think her hard work has helped me get to where I am today. For Brar, his progress cannot be separated from his family's support and prayers. Sometimes I don't even believe that it wasn't because of me. But it was my mother's prayers that shaped my destiny this way. I am very thankful to her. I am blessed to have such thoughtful and supportive parents. I can only say this much. Everyone's parents are the same. I am just sharing my experience. Despite already establishing himself in the IPL, Brar insists he does not consider his journey complete. His conversation with childhood hero Yuvraj Singh has only reinforced the ambition that remains ahead of him. I met Yuvraj paaji 3 days ago only, when I was practising. There are no questions that I havent asked him yet. I have asked him so many questions. Whatever I feel like, I ask him. Asked if Yuvraj were to ask whether Brar has achieved everything he set out to achieve, the answer would be unequivocal. If he asks me whether I have achieved everything or not, Ill say, No, I havent. I want to play Test cricket for my country. I met Yuvraj paaji 3 days ago only, when I was practising. There are no questions that I havent asked him yet. I have asked him so many questions. Whatever I feel like, I ask him. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I have already had a conversation with him about this. I will work hard and have a great season to achieve my dream and my goal as soon as possible, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
No Such Thing As An Off-season; Shreyas Is One Of The Best Minds I've Seen: Trevor Gonsalves
With Indian Premier League: A franchise like Punjab Kings used to be perpetually trapped in the cycle of mid-table rebuilds till a grand change at the top happened in 2025. Under head coach Ricky Ponting and captain Shreyas Iyer, PBKS reached the summit clash, but fell short of the trophy. Their quest to win the title began brightly in 2026 before an unbeaten run in the first half made way for six straight losses. Though they won their final league game against Lucknow Super Giants, the unimpressive second half meant PBKS finished right outside the first four spots in the points tally. With Indian Premier League (IPL) 2027 still a fair bit away, PBKS have hit the ground running in terms of preparations via an ongoing off-season camp in New Chandigarh. In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Gonsalves breaks down the reasoning behind off-season camps, different needs of players to keep themselves sharp and match-ready, evolution of the franchise, 'positive-only' leadership of Shreyas Iyer, and more. Excerpts: - Q. What are the core objectives you are trying to achieve through this off-season camp? A. As of today, I really don't see anything as off-season. Cricket is being played throughout, and you may be aware that even the Sher-e-Punjab is starting in a few days, and we carry a few Punjab players with us. Many more state leagues are also on, or about to start. You have the Kerala Premier League and had the Andhra one getting over. Now you have the UP Premier League, and it's really about keeping the players in shape and keeping them in touch. We also look forward to our players performing in all these tournaments that are coming up. At the same time, you've also seen that a few of our players have been elevated and gone up to the Indian side. So, it's about keeping them fit and in touch with the game. It's good that we come around for a week or so in a period of 25 or one month or so. So, it's a good period that's carrying on going up to the IPL. Q. This camp features the likes of Prabhsimran Singh, Shashank Singh and Nehal Wadhera. How do you tailor individual technical work for these players who are at very different stages in their careers? A. Well, see, it is not about the drill sessions at this moment. It is about, again, all the names that you mentioned are all professional cricketers, right? So, Prabh is about to play for the side in a few days. Shashank is ironing out a few of his problems that were there earlier on and is still trying to be in shape, and the same with Nehal. So, we have a specific mode now with only six or seven guys here around. We are giving them all the phases that usually come in the game. So, that's how we are going about it. It's not about being too specific about anything. But yes, they are having their own plans. We are executing a few plans and a few match scenarios. Well, I am in one-to-one touch with Ricky. Ricky is aware of everything that's going on, and he gets a report on a day-to-day basis. Q. You've been with the team since the 2022 season. What sort of shift has happened from 2025 in terms of personnel, mindset and ethos of the Punjab Kings? A. Going back to when I joined in 2022, when Trevor Bayliss was also the coach, I think it's about picking and getting into the right combination. The most important part that I see is about the home players and the picks in the overseas brackets. The person that we have in command now, Ponting, has been around for a decade. He's been around for a very long time, and he's an excellent, excellent person who knows all the players in and out. Being with the IPLs and various franchises for so long. So, he knows everyone in and out. That cuts our problems a lot in picking the right players for the right spot. Now, as of today, we boast of a team that can really do this - we have two sets of players. We have a backup for every single player on this team. So, even if one player goes down, the next player is always ready there and is as good as the first player applying to the eleven. So, it's really about picking the right slots, getting in the right players, and then working on it. Q. At PBKS, theres a lot of faith shown in young Indian batting talent like Prabhsimran, Wadhera and Priyansh Arya since 2025. How do you see this trend? A. We in India have totally different wickets compared to what we have overseas. If it's in England or in Australia, the wickets in India can be really challenging. It's the same as when an Indian player goes out; it's very challenging for them because, year-round, and when you speak about the Indian batsmen, yes, it's very difficult for an outsider to come and settle on the Indian wickets. Its because you can have less bounce, you can have a little bit of turn, you can have a little bit of grip on it, which is usually not the case on English and Australian wickets. So, really, yes, the Indian players form the majority of the great IPL teams that are there now. If you notice, the better the Indian players, the better the team performs, with due respect to the overseas players and all of them. But yes, you have to have a strong Indian batting line-up for me. That's it. Q. Shreyas Iyer's leadership at PBKS so far has been a revelation, and he now captains India in T20Is? What makes him a standout skipper? A. Shreyas and Ricky have been working for a long time now, even before coming to Punjab Kings. When they both got here, and now when you're talking about Shreyas, Shreyas is totally an amazing personality, and the biggest thing is he's such a good listener. When I talk about communicating with Shreyas, he's such a good listener that any single person in the team- he may be the 25th person in the team- can just go out and speak to Shreyas, and this guy will always have time for you. He will always have time for you. Shreyas is one of the best minds I have seen in cricket so far. What a level-headed guy, and a good head on your shoulders. He's one person who backs every single player, and the best part I like about him is that in the meetings or at personal levels or in the field or at practice, you can't speak a negative line. However bad the situation is, you've got to take out a positive line from it and speak it if you want to. But there is no speaking negatively when any player or anybody is concerned, and Shreyas is in front of you. It's got to be positive. If the feedback is there, it's got to be positive. So that's a very good thing. He is only talking positively and well. Nothing more than that. Yes, mistakes do happen, and everyone realises that a mistake was made. So you don't need to go up to his face and tell him that you made a mistake. They are all mature and highly experienced players. So that's a very good point that I like about Shreyas. He is an amazing human being, has very good ears, and is always ready to hear you out. Q. From a coaching perspective, how critical are these camps in keeping players sharp compared to just monitoring them during the domestic season? A. Not all the players are international players, and not necessarily all the players play domestic cricket. So now, if we don't have these camps, a lot of players would be missing out on really good cricket. We know that if a player has to practice alone in his hometown, we don't know the quality of wickets he's going to get there. What is the quality of the bowlers he's going to face there? Or if he's a bowler, what quality of batsmen is he bowling to? Will he get that quality of balls that we are providing, the Kookaburra balls? Maybe not. So it is more about facilitating these players and getting them ready, because the remaining players who come from overseas or international cricket or state duties are ready. So what about the players who are not in the state category and international side? It's more important for them as well. These are the reasons why we have planned this now. This season is going to be alarmingly long for us because we have a terrific, terrific schedule in place. We have a lot of camps coming up, and these camps really do help because it's all about coming together, meeting the person, trying to understand what's going on in his mind. It's not only all about cricket. It's all about the mindset and the frame of mind that he's in. How is he going? What's his body language? How positive is he? What's his attitude? A lot is being worked on also on their mindsets, and having these camps off and on is really, really important. We know time flies, and very soon we'll be into the 2027 season. So what about the players who are not in the state category and international side? It's more important for them as well. These are the reasons why we have planned this now. This season is going to be alarmingly long for us because we have a terrific, terrific schedule in place. We have a lot of camps coming up, and these camps really do help because it's all about coming together, meeting the person, trying to understand what's going on in his mind. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A. You can speak and get away with it. But data is the truth. You can't run away from the data. The data shows what the person has done, and I wouldn't say that we are 100 percent reliant on it. But yes, data in today's life plays an important role. We can't run away from the data. The data speaks volumes, and we do rely on it. Yes, data does have an important place as far as we are concerned, and yes, data helps. Article Source: IANS
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings spinner Harpreet Brar has played down the talk surrounding his on-field exchanges with Virat Kohli, insisting there is no rivalry between the two and that a bowler's focus should remain firmly on the job at hand, regardless of who is batting at the other end. Brar, who has previously dismissed Kohli in the Indian Premier League (IPL), said the intensity seen between the two players is part of the competitive nature of franchise cricket and not a personal contest. For Brar, the respect for Kohli remains unchanged even when the two find themselves on opposite sides in an IPL game. It's not like that. It's good for the team. Theres nothing like a rivalry. Its all a social media gimmick which starts there and dies there. I play for PBKS, he plays for RCB. I have only played franchise cricket with him. We both want to do good for the team, Brar told IANS in an exclusive conversation on Thursday. Brar believes Kohli's enduring competitiveness is one of the qualities that has made him such a significant figure in Indian cricket. The spinner has also viewed that intensity as something younger players can learn from. He has played so many matches, and he plays the same way as he did when he was 18. His aggression on the ground is still the same. We have also learnt these things from him, he said. According to Brar, respect does not disappear simply because the two are competing. But it's not like that. He is a legend of this game. He is one of the legends. Respect is the same for him on and off the field. At the same time, Brar believes competitive cricket leaves little room for sentiment once the game begins. The objective, he said, is to perform for one's own side, irrespective of personal relationships. But we do our job on the field. And we have learnt it from him only. He will never give an excuse saying, He is my friend, so I wont hit him for a four or six. It's not like that. It's not possible. He wants to do well for his team; its all jokes and fun. We have always learnt from him, and he is a great example for the future youngsters as to how cricket should be played, he added. Brar's own history with Kohli adds another layer to their encounters. The PBKS spinner famously dismissed the former RCB captain in the same spell in which he also removed Glenn Maxwell and AB de Villiers. But Brar said the identity of the batter does not change his responsibility as a bowler. You should always have that current in you as a bowler; it doesnt matter if its Virat Kohli batting in front of you or a youngster. As a bowler, my duty is to take his wicket or bowl a good over for my team. That should be the motto. For him, even the intimidating aura associated with Kohli should have no bearing on a bowler's mindset. Someone giving a death stare should not bother a bowler. Brar also dismissed the idea that Kohli is necessarily staring directly at him during such moments, pointing instead to the way television cameras capture interactions on the field. I have never seen him staring at me. The camera angles are like this. When we are on the ground. It feels like they are staring at me, but theyre not. You can only hear the conversation around the stump mic. You can't hear anything else. But it's not like that, as far as staring is concerned. Brar pointed out that intense reactions from captains and players are a routine part of competitive cricket, though Kohli's profile naturally means his expressions attract greater attention. I have never seen him staring at me. The camera angles are like this. When we are on the ground. It feels like they are staring at me, but theyre not. You can only hear the conversation around the stump mic. You can't hear anything else. But it's not like that, as far as staring is concerned. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The spinner offered one final reminder that what viewers interpret from a television broadcast may not necessarily reflect what is happening between players. He doesn't need to be staring at me; he could be staring at someone else too, he concluded on a fun note. Article Source: IANS
Smith's honest DRS admission after lucky escape
Australia's top-scorer Steve Smith admitted he believed he nicked the ball during a DRS review on day one of the first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin, despite the not-out decision being upheld. His crucial innings of 71 helped Australia reach 198, but Bangladesh finished the day strongly at 96 for one, trailing by 102 runs.
SL vs IND Tests | Role reversal Kirsten seeks to use India experience in Sri Lanka challenge
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Morkel reveals KL Rahul's big role in Sri Lanka Test
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R Ashwin Calls Ireland's Series Win Over India As Huge Positive. Here's Why
Ravichandran Ashwin has welcomed Ireland's recent 2-0 series victory over India, pointing to the result and the nature of the pitches as encouraging signs for cricket's global expansion.
Indian Premier League: Punjab Kings batter Pyla Avinash believes his fearless approach can make him a match-winner in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the young Andhra cricketer looks to build on the domestic performances that earned him his maiden opportunity in the league. Picked by PBKS for Rs. 30 lakh after a standout run in the Andhra Premier League, Avinash says he wants to retain his attacking instinct while learning to temper it with greater responsibility in the high-pressure environment of the IPL. Avinash's rise to the Punjab Kings setup came after three consistent seasons in the Andhra Premier League, culminating in a stunning unbeaten 105 off 58 balls, an innings that included 11 sixes. Yet, despite that performance, he said an IPL call-up was not something he had begun planning for. After scoring that 100, I never thought that I'd be in the IPL setup because it was just all instincts. I wasn't thinking long enough. I mean, okay, I'm just going match by match and not thinking about the result of the IPL. So, yeah, it was all disbelief until I went to the trials. I did well in the trials, in the Punjab trials. So, I got shortlisted at the start, and I felt very happy for that. And later, after they picked me, I was really happy, and I was literally shocked. So, yeah, it's a different kind of feeling which I can't explain, Avinash told IANS in an exclusive interaction. PBKS' decision to invest in Avinash came when he was still largely outside the national spotlight. For the youngster, being identified by the franchise at that stage was a major moment in his career. First of all, I'm very lucky to be picked by the Punjab Kings. Then, I was doing really well in the Andhra Premier League. That was my third season. I was doing consistently well in all three seasons, where I scored a century when they picked me, the batter said. The IPL call-up brought both excitement and the awareness that the level of expectation would change. I can say both, where expectations are also higher, and responsibility comes from it. So it brought both. The franchise, however, ensured that the transition did not become overwhelming for a player entering the IPL environment for the first time. Avinash said the PBKS management and coaching staff helped him settle into the surroundings. PBKS owners kept me in a very good space in Punjab. To be honest, I was never kept aside, nor were they ever treated me in such a way. But they were really good to me. They were very kind to me in all scenarios. Our head coach, our owners, and all the staff looked after me very well because it was my inaugural season for the IPL. So, for me, there's a lot of pressure coming to the IPL setup because I don't know how the setup will be, how strong or how things will be here with our own people, with all the legends surrounding you. There are so many instances where they kept me really good, really comfortable in all the situations while on and off the field as well, he added. The innings that accelerated Avinash's journey came with an extraordinary display of power-hitting. During his unbeaten 105, he struck five sixes in an over, a sequence that showcased the natural aggression that has become a defining part of his batting. It was just instinct. I hit five sixes in that over where, on the second ball, two runs came. There's no chance for me to hit six sixes, Avinash said of the knock. The reference to six sixes inevitably brings Yuvraj Singh's famous feat into the conversation, but Avinash has no hesitation in admitting that achieving the same landmark remains an ambition. Obviously, it's a dream for anyone to hit six sixes in an over in any format or at any time of the game. I'm looking forward to having one in my bag. Avinash's challenge in the IPL is not to abandon the aggression that brought him this far, but to understand when to unleash it. The batter said he has spent the last two years observing established players and studying how they assess bowlers and situations. The last two years, I've been developing, you know, looking after so many players in the team. How they take on the bowlers, in what situation, at what point in time. I'm constantly learning from sitting in the dugout, though I didn't get any chance. But I still feel fearless is my thing, which I don't want to stop. But yeah, I can't be more reckless about it. So, I want to be more responsible and fearless, he expressed. For Avinash, that mindset does not depend on whether he is facing the first ball of an innings or the final delivery. His emphasis is on clarity and trusting the instincts developed through repetition. I'll have a clear mind while batting, even if it is the first ball or the last ball. I have a clear mind. So, it's just the instinct we get from practising a lot and executing well in the match. So, yeah, it's just all instinct, and it's just a clear mind and doing what you are doing since all your life, he mentioned. While Avinash has been identified primarily for his aggressive batting, he does not want his ambitions to end with simply becoming a power-hitter. He aims to be the player who can alter the course of a match when his team is under pressure. I can change the, you know, course of the game really well. Even if the team is in a losing situation, I can step up then because I've done those things so many times. So, I can describe it like that. If I am there in the race, the match is ours. I think of myself as a match winner, Avinash noted. That confidence is being shaped by an IPL environment in which Avinash has had the opportunity to observe some of the game's most experienced figures. One of those figures is Ricky Ponting, whom Avinash grew up watching as a batter before eventually finding himself working under him as a coach. The transition from watching the Australian great on television to discussing the game with him has been one of the more surreal aspects of his early IPL journey. His attitude and, you know, commitment towards the game really surprised me. In his whole career, he played really good innings. I used to watch him bat. And after I was picked, obviously Ricky Ponting is the head coach, and I felt it was unreal. So, there are times I used to sit and talk to him about the game, about the mindset and, you know, all the technical aspects. I am really happy that I got a chance to work with him the last two years. And about whether he has told me something about my batting, yeah, 100%. He did some technical changes and, you know, he didn't tell me so many big, big things. But he made small, small changes which really helped me in the way I am batting right now, Avinash said of working under Ponting. Behind Avinash's rapid rise is a family influence that predates the IPL, with his elder brother playing a central role in introducing him to the sport and supporting his development. Avinash believes that without his brother's own cricket journey, he may never have developed the vision or received the same support to pursue the game. Behind Avinash's rapid rise is a family influence that predates the IPL, with his elder brother playing a central role in introducing him to the sport and supporting his development. Also Read: Live Cricket Score From an Andhra Premier League hundred that he never expected to lead to the IPL, to learning under Ponting and preparing to compete alongside established names, Avinash's journey is now entering a new phase. And while the expectations have risen with his arrival in the IPL, his ambition remains rooted in the same instinctive, attacking cricket that brought him here. Article Source: IANS
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Indian Premier League: For spinner Praveen Dubey, being part of an Indian Premier League (IPL) squad has never been the same as getting a genuine run in the playing XI. After years of waiting, learning from some of the biggest names in Indian cricket and continuing to build his game in domestic competitions, the Punjab Kings leg-spinner believes he is ready to make the most of his next opportunity. Dubey, who entered the IPL ecosystem with Royal Challengers Bengaluru in 2016 before moving to Delhi Capitals and now Punjab Kings (PBKS), admitted that he is yet to get enough chances to demonstrate his full potential at the highest level. Rather than allowing that frustration to weigh on him, the leg-spinner has chosen to focus on his development and remain prepared for the moment his opportunity arrives. Until now, I haven't had enough opportunities to play and show my talent or performance. So, I have started my process in the domestic and local leagues. And I am ready for any chance I get, Praveen told IANS in an exclusive interview. The wait is not unfamiliar for Dubey. His first IPL season with RCB was largely a learning experience, as the youngster spent time with senior players and tried to understand what was required to perform at the highest level. So, my first year was a very good learning experience for me. I was selected for the IPL for the first time, he added. Among the senior figures he interacted with was Virat Kohli, with Dubey using those conversations to work on the mental side of his game while waiting for his opportunity. At that time, I had Virat with me. I used to talk to him about how I could improve my mindset. And in between, I used to think that whenever I get a chance to play, I should do well, Dubey stated. After spending two years around the RCB setup without getting a consistent opportunity, Dubey moved to DC. His chance eventually came soon after joining the franchise, and he was able to carry the confidence of his domestic performances into the IPL. When I didn't get a chance to play for a year or two, then I went to DC. I got a chance to play there only after two matches. So, I was with the players for 2 years during my time at RCB. And I was trying to do what I did in my domestic career. And after playing, it turned out very well. And then I played in the 2020 finals. So, that experience was very good, he mentioned. At Punjab Kings, Dubey has another opportunity to learn from an established leg-spinner, with Yuzvendra Chahal now part of the same bowling group. The relationship between the two goes back to their RCB days, giving Dubey an experienced teammate with whom he can discuss the finer details of T20 bowling. I was with Yuzi in RCB as well. We used to talk a lot. And obviously, it feels good to bowl with him. And you get to learn a lot, too. He has played so many matches. He is the highest wicket-taker in the IPL, he opined. While Chahal's presence provides a valuable learning opportunity, Dubey also believes the two could potentially operate together if conditions favour spin, as he stated, But at the same time, I thought that if the ground conditions are such that the spinners get more help, then maybe we can play together as well. Their conversations also extend to specific match-ups and game situations, with Dubey saying Chahal's experience has proved useful during practice sessions, as he added, But in practice, whenever we bowl together, we talk a lot. And he keeps telling me how to bowl to which batsman, what to do in which situation. So, it's very helpful to bowl with him. While waiting for his next IPL opportunity, Dubey has continued to refine his bowling philosophy. The leg-spinner believes that looking for wickets rather than simply trying to contain runs gives him a better chance of creating pressure. I feel that most of the time, the bowling that I am doing right now, I am only looking to take wickets. If I am going to save a lot, then that is a negative thing. And there are runs as well. Recently, I have also played in the Maharaja Trophy. So, my main focus was to go for the wicket. And that thing was helping me as well, Dubey said. For Dubey, the idea is to make aggressive batters uncomfortable and force them into taking risks. After going for a wicket, the batsmen automatically go into defensive mode, and we can attack more. And it depends on which batsman- right-handed batsman or left-handed batsman- I have for which wicket-taking ball. So, I bowl according to that. I feel that if I bowl my best ball to the most attacking batsmen and don't give them boundaries easily, they will try something extra, which will increase my chances of getting a wicket, he noted. That attacking mindset also means accepting that boundaries will come. Dubey believes the key is not to let one expensive delivery change his approach. T20 is such a game that even good balls have boundaries. And nowadays, as you can see in cricket, T20 is being played so easily. So, my mindset is to focus on my strengths. I will try to bowl my best ball. If there are boundaries or anything, then I don't have a problem. But if I get a mark on a good ball, then I don't have a problem. I will focus on that only, he expressed. Dubey's preparations have not been limited to bowling. His recent stint in the Maharaja Trophy also saw him put considerable emphasis on his batting, with the aim of making himself a more useful all-round option. Recently, I played the Maharaja Trophy, and I have also worked a lot on batting. So, I do bowl, but I have also won a lot of matches. So, as an all-rounder, I can play in the team. I will also contribute in bowling and 100% in batting. That additional dimension could become important for Dubey as he looks to make himself harder to leave out when an opportunity comes his way. Recently, I played the Maharaja Trophy, and I have also worked a lot on batting. So, I do bowl, but I have also won a lot of matches. So, as an all-rounder, I can play in the team. I will also contribute in bowling and 100% in batting. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That advice has shaped his approach to the latest phase of his IPL journey. So, I am doing the same thing. I am focusing on the process and waiting for my chance. Whenever I get a chance, I will do my best for the team and win, Dubey concluded. Article Source: IANS
Sri Lanka Test captain Dhananjaya de Silva highlighted one India batter as a major threat for the hosts for the upcoming two-match series.
Jurel's Test spot at risk? Sarfaraz adds to pressure
Indian wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel is at a critical juncture in his Test career, with his performance in the upcoming Sri Lanka series crucial for his future, especially given his struggles against spin and the presence of Sarfaraz Khan.
IND vs SL 1st Test | Morne Morkel open to possibility of playing three left-arm spinners
Smith was ready to walk off before DRS flat line
Bangladesh were convinced Smith had edged behind early in his innings and the batter himself thought so too
I knew I would get India call-up one day, says Auqib Nabi, ahead of SL Test series
Nabi has been drafted into the Indian squad as a replacement for injured Jasprit Bumrah for the two-Test series against Sri Lanka
Dhruv Jurel's Preparation: Talking To KL Rahul, Watchful Against Spin At Nets
Dhruv Jurel was a picture of concentration in the nets at the sweltering Galle, middling almost everything that came his way from pacers and spinners alike.
Shubman Gill Has 1 Big Challenge In Order To Qualify For WTC 2027 Final. Matthew Hayden Sums It Up
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has backed India's Test and ODI captain Shubman Gill to handle the challenges facing the team in the longer format.
'His name is doing the rounds': Ashwin hints at CSK coach
Following Stephen Fleming's departure, Chennai Super Kings are seeking a new head coach. Former India spinner Ravichandran Ashwin has suggested Eoin Morgan as a strong candidate, citing his leadership experience. Ashwin also believes MS Dhoni should continue to provide leadership during this transition period.
'Hardik Pandya Is My Idol': APL's Top Wicket-taker Credits Indian All-rounder For Success
Assam Premier League: Dibrugarh Warriors all-rounder Doikho Das has credited India star Hardik Pandya as his idol, saying he is trying to model his game on the dynamic all-rounders aggressive approach as he continues to make his mark in the inaugural Assam Premier League (APL) 2026. Das has been one of the standout performers for the Warriors, who sit at the top of the points table with five wins from six matches and 10 points. The seamer has claimed 13 wickets in six games at an economy rate of 7.80, including an impressive 4/33 against Charaideo Sunrisers. He believes his admiration for Pandya has influenced the way he approaches bowling, particularly his use of the short ball. Hardik Pandya is my idol. I like the way he plays his cricket, and I try to learn from his style. I focus on hitting the deck hard and bowling aggressively, especially with the short ball, Das said. The short ball is my stock delivery. It has brought me success, and with the pitches offering assistance, I am leaning into that strength, he added. While Das has so far made his biggest impact with the ball, he considers himself an all-rounder and is waiting for an opportunity to contribute with the bat. I havent had the chance to bat yet, but Im ready to make an impact whenever the opportunity arises. I want to contribute in both departments whenever my team needs me, he said. The 13-wicket haul has made Das one of the tournaments leading wicket-takers, but the youngster believes keeping things simple has been the key to his success. My mindset is clear. I dont focus on the batter; I only focus on hitting my areas and sticking to the plan. That helps me stay disciplined and not get distracted, he reckoned. The 13-wicket haul has made Das one of the tournaments leading wicket-takers, but the youngster believes keeping things simple has been the key to his success. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Personal performances dont matter as much if the team doesnt win. Im not satisfied yet because I want to keep improving to help the team move forward, he said. Article Source: IANS
Australia womens vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner has addressed the personal fallout from the breakdown of her marriage after allegations concerning a relationship with teammate Georgia Voll became public. Gardners ex-wife Monica Wright had criticised Cricket Australia...
Have No Interest In ODIs, Says India Great Who Played 200 Plus One-Day Internationals
The death of bilateral international cricket is a real possibility because of the exploding popularity of T20 leagues, feels the former India star.
Ayodhya back in Sri Lanka Women's T20 Asia Cup squad
She is one of the three changes Sri Lanka made to the T20I squad that played Pakistan at home last month
European T20 Premier League: With the inaugural European T20 Premier League (ETPL) scheduled to get underway on August 26, Dublin Guardians captain and mentor Ravichandran Ashwin has welcomed Irelands recent 2-0 series victory over India, pointing to the result and the nature of the pitches as encouraging signs for crickets global expansion. Ashwin, who will lead the Dublin Guardians in the tournament, said Irelands triumph over the worlds No.1-ranked side underlined the competitive possibilities for emerging cricketing nations, while also highlighting how helpful balanced surfaces can be for bowlers in the shortest format. Two things made me very happy. One was that a team ranked 10th could beat a team ranked first. I think the sport should be like that. It is also a lesson that the FIFA World Cup has taught us. For this game to become a truly global sport, with more nations coming to the fore and with cricket set to feature in the Olympics in the next couple of years, I see it as a huge positive, Ashwin told JioStar. For Ashwin, Irelands success was not merely about an upset result. The veteran spinner also saw the series as evidence of how pitch conditions can bring different skills and tactical approaches into play, particularly in T20 cricket. The second aspect is that if there is something in the pitch and there is a balance between bat and ball, bowlers are going to come into play, which Ireland proved beyond any doubt, he added. He singled out Ireland left-arm spinner Matthew Humphreys for particular praise, with the youngster's success against India providing Ashwin an example of the continued relevance of finger spin when conditions allow bowlers to operate effectively. To have a left-arm spinner like Humphreys bowl to Shivam Dube and get him caught at square leg is a lesson for people who ask me what has happened to the art of finger spin, he stated. Ashwin also questioned the extent to which modern T20 cricket has become favourable to batters, arguing that the conditions can make life difficult for every bowler and force teams to rely on detailed planning as well as an element of fortune. The pitches have reached a point where any bowler can go the distance on a given day. I think you need a lot of luck to survive, apart from having plenty of plans in place in modern T20 cricket, the former India all-rounder said. The manner in which Humphreys was entrusted with responsibility late in the innings further impressed Ashwin. The Dublin Guardians captain pointed to the decision to use the spinner against a left-handed batter deep into the innings as an example of how conditions can influence tactical calls. So, it was a refreshing pitch to watch, and it was even more refreshing to see Humphreys being trusted with the 18th or 19th over against a left-hander. The pitch had enough in it and did not allow the left-hander to hit through the line. So, on both counts, it was very, very pleasing to watch, Ashwin said. Ashwin will now turn his attention to the ETPL, where the Dublin Guardians are among the teams preparing for the leagues first season. The tournament has attracted prominent names from the cricketing world, including Rahul Dravid and Jonty Rhodes in ownership roles. Dravid, the co-owner of the Dublin Guardians, spoke highly of Ashwins role within the franchise and underlined the value of having an experienced cricketer focused on leadership and nurturing younger players. I'm glad that we got Ashwin on board. He is obviously a legend of the game and a world-class performer, but he is also a really good captain and leader. He is someone who has a very clear idea and vision of how, at this stage of his career, he wants to focus on developing and working with young talent, Dravid said. Dravid, the co-owner of the Dublin Guardians, spoke highly of Ashwins role within the franchise and underlined the value of having an experienced cricketer focused on leadership and nurturing younger players. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In Rotterdam specifically, we have a great opportunity because it is the gateway to Europe. We want people to come and experience something slightly different because Europeans are very outdoorsy and active. They play ball sports and participate in Olympic sports. With cricket now part of the Olympics, it presents a very compelling case. If you want to represent your country, here is an opportunity, Rhodes stated. Article Source: IANS
Morkel: Quicks must 'stack up overs together with intensity' to succeed in Galle
Morne Morkel has high expectations from the fast bowlers - Mohammed Siraj is the most experienced, with Prasidh Krishna and the uncapped Gurnoor Brar and Auqib Nabi around
England lift midnight curfew after Ben Stokes' international retirement, Joe Root confirms
Following Englands Ashes defeat in Australia, the management introduced a midnight curfew for players during any series . The decision was made after controversy involving Harry Brook at a nightclub in Australia. However, just one series later, the policy came under scrutiny when former captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were spotted at a London nightclub after Englands victory over New Zealand in the first Test at Lords. The incident sparked further controversy after an ECB staff member was injured and required stitches.
Ashleigh Gardner Requests For Privacy Amid Personal Controversy, As CA Retains Her As Vice-captain
ODI World Cup: Australia women's team vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner on Thursday broke her silence regarding her ongoing personal controversy and urged the public to respect her privacy, while confirming that Cricket Australia (CA) has retained her as the vice-captain. Ashleigh has been at the centre of public scrutiny after her estranged wife, Monica Wright, made serious infidelity allegations regarding events during the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup in India, while also questioning the national board's decision to keep the all-rounder in her vice-captaincy role. While my separation from my wife is a personal matter, I understand my current relationship status needed to be addressed by Cricket Australia given my position as vice-captain. I am grateful that the CA Board has chosen to support my continued leadership. I look forward to playing a strong role as a leader and providing the best possible support for my teammates in the season to come, Ashleigh wrote on her Instagram Stories. Ashleigh and Monica got married in April 2025, before their relationship hit a rough patch during last year's ODI World Cup. A few months after Ashleigh moved out of their home in Sydney, she alleged that Ashleigh was involved in an affair with her teammate opener Georgia Voll. I am grateful that the CA Board has chosen to support my continued leadership. I look forward to playing a strong role as a leader and providing the best possible support for my teammates in the season to come, Ashleigh wrote on her Instagram Stories. Also Read: Live Cricket Score CA had earlier clarified that the dispute between Ashleigh and Monica remains a private matter, noting that conflict-of-interest arrangements were activated under its Respect at Work policy to protect team integrity. Her WBBL franchise, the Sydney Sixers, has also extended its full support to the off-spin bowling all-rounder. Article Source: IANS
India like to play three left-arm spinners in Galle Test
Bowling coach Morne Morkel has indicated that India might field three left-arm spinners - Kuldeep Yadav, Ravindra Jadeja, and Manav Suthar - in the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.
The Bangladesh bowlers overshadowed Australia's Big Four getting back together on day one of the first test as the host was dismissed for 198 and Hasan Mahmud took a career-best 6-55 on Thursday.
Harbhajan Singh backed Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli to play the ODI World Cup in 2027 provided they have the conviction to continue.
Australia vs Bangladesh 1st Test Day 1 Highlights: The Bangladesh bowlers overshadowed Australia's Big Four getting back together on day one of the first Test as the host was dismissed for 198 and Hasan Mahmud took a career-best 6-55 on Thursday.
Ayodhya, Vihanga And Vimukthi Return To Sri Lankas Squad For Womens Asia Cup
Pacers Mithali Ayodhya: Pacers Mithali Ayodhya, Chethana Vimukthi and off-spin bowling all-rounder Dewmi Vihanga have made a return to Sri Lankas squad for the upcoming Womens Asia Cup, to be held in the UAE from August 28 to September 13. The trio were not a part of Sri Lankas recent T20I series against Pakistan in Hambantota, which the hosts won 2-1. Now for the continental event, where Sri Lanka enter as the defending champions after winning the 2024 edition on home soil, they have come into the squad in place of Nimasha Meepage, Malki Madara and Rashmika Sewwandi. Seasoned batting all-rounder Chamari Athapaththu will lead a strong 15-member Sri Lanka squad, with batter Harshitha Samarawickrama named as the vice-captain. Defending champions Sri Lanka have been placed in Group B alongside Bangladesh, hosts UAE, and debutants Indonesia. Sri Lanka will begin their title defence against the UAE on August 29, before facing Indonesia on September 2 and conclude their group-stage assignments against Bangladesh in a marquee clash on September 6. All matches will be played at the Dubai International Stadium and in T20I format. The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals, scheduled for September 10 and 11, with the summit clash set for September 13. Sri Lanka will begin their title defence against the UAE on August 29, before facing Indonesia on September 2 and conclude their group-stage assignments against Bangladesh in a marquee clash on September 6. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka squad: Chamari Athapaththu (captain), Imesha Dulani, Sanjana Kavindi, Vishmi Gunarathne, Harshitha Samarawickrama (vice-captain), Kaveesha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Hasini Perera, Kaushini Nuthyangana (wicketkeeper), Dewmi Vihanga, Sugandika Dassanayaka, Chamudi Praboda, Chethana Vimukthi, Kawya Kavindi and Mithali Ayodhya Article Source: IANS
CA backs Gardner vice-captaincy but policies updated to avoid conflict of interest
The allrounder has commented for the first time since her marriage breakdown and her affair with Georgia Voll became public
'I was at the airport': Nabi recalls India call-up moment
Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi and Madhya Pradesh's Saransh Jain, both uncapped players, have been drafted into the Indian Test squad for the series against Sri Lanka, replacing injured Jasprit Bumrah.
Hasan Mahmud Takes 6-55 As Bangladesh Claim Opening Day Of Australia Test
Hasan Mahmud took a career-best 6-55 as Bangladesh bundled Australia out for 198 to take the honours on the opening day of the first Test in Darwin on Thursday. At the close Bangladesh were 96-1, 102 runs behind Australia. Mominul Haque was on 35 with Tanzid Hasan alongside him on 32 as the visitors made a superb start to a Test match most people expected them to lose inside three days. Earlier, Hasan led an impressive display by the visitors' seamers as Australia slumped to their lowest Test score against Bangladesh, their previous worst being 217 in Mirpur in 2017. The 26-year-old was the pick of the attack, but he was ably supported by fellow quicks Taskin Ahmed and Ebadot Hossain, who took two wickets apiece. I was just trying to bowl line and length, trust the process and follow what the captain was saying, Hasan said. (Taskin and Ebadot) were trying their best and they did very well also. Steve Smith was the only Australian to offer any resistance, scoring 71, while the rest of the batsmen looked out of sorts against the disciplined attack. We haven't played a Test match for a while and it can take some time to get into it, Smith said. It wasn't easy. The ball was doing stuff and you have to be patient. Perhaps we got dragged into a few we didn't need to, but that's the pressure. After skipper Pat Cummins chose to bat on a perfect Darwin day, a full-strength Australia were expected to dominate a Bangladesh side who were well beaten by a Cricket Australia XI in their only warm-up match. Hasan made the initial breakthrough in the 12th over with the score on 45. Jake Weatherald, on 23, had a huge swipe at a ball outside off stump and only managed a thick edge to wicketkeeper Litton Das. Hasan struck again soon after, fellow opener Travis Head chopping on for 22 to leave Australia 52-2. Bangladesh then saw a huge opportunity go begging when Smith, on two, edged Ebadot to third slip where Tanzid Hasan spilled the chance. Smith had a second escape next over when he got a thick edge off Taskin only for the ball to fly through a vacant third slip. Marnus Labuschagne, on one, wasn't so fortunate. He poked at an Ebadot ball outside off stump and edged to Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto at second slip, leaving Australia 61-3. Cameron Green came in and played some big shots before chipping Taskin to short midwicket, where Mushfiqur Rahim took an easy catch. Wicketkeeper Alex Carey looked in good touch after lunch and cruised to 19 until he played on to Ebadot with the score on 129. Taskin then produced the ball of the day to beat Beau Webster's bat and clip the top of off stump to leave the home side struggling on 152-6. Cummins tried to steer the hosts to tea without further loss, however Shanto brought Hasan back into the attack with immediate success, the Australian skipper getting a big edge to Litton. Hasan got his fourth in the same fashion, Mitchell Starc getting a thin edge to the keeper with the score on 172. Smith threw his wicket away going for a big hit before Nathan Lyon was last man out in similar fashion. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bangladesh started their reply confidently and eased to 36 before Australia got the breakthrough, Shadman Islam (20) getting a leading edge off Mitchell Starc to Lyon at backward point.
Steve Smiths attempt to deal with a sight-screen problem during Australias first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin was met with an unexpected response from the crowd. The incident happened in the second session of the...
Ashleigh Gardner Breaks Silence On Cheating Row Amid Allegations Of Affair With Teammate
Australia women's cricket team vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner finally reacted to the controversy surrounding her separation from estranged wife Monica Wright.
We Know How To Bounce Back: Badoni Reflects On South Delhi Superstarzs Win Over East Delhi Riders
South Delhi Superstarz: South Delhi Superstarz delivered a polished performance with both bat and ball, earning a convincing nine-wicket win against East Delhi Riders in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026, and captain Ayush Badoni emphasised the team's positive mindset in light of their strong performance. We know how to bounce back: Badoni reflects on South Delhi Superstarzs win over East Delhi Riders New Delhi, Aug 13 (IANS) South Delhi Superstarz delivered a polished performance with both bat and ball, earning a convincing nine-wicket win against East Delhi Riders in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026, and captain Ayush Badoni emphasised the team's positive mindset in light of their strong performance. It was a very good win for us. We lost two matches earlier, but the team environment remained positive throughout. That is the best thing about our side, we always stay positive and know how to bounce back, and that is exactly what happened today, said Badoni after the match. Badoni attributed the ease of the chase to the solid foundation established at the top of the order. The opening stand set the platform brilliantly. Both Sanat and Anmol played really well and delivered what was expected from them, he noted. Badoni reflected on his mindset as he walked out to bat, after hitting three consecutive sixes to turn the momentum in his team's favor with his explosive knock. When I went in, I realised the pitch was batting-friendly. Since we have a deep batting lineup, I thought I should boost the run rate, he explained. He also praised fast bowler Anshuman Hooda. Anshuman has been a fiery bowler for us. He takes wickets at key moments, and I am really glad to have him in the squad. I believe he has a great chance of finishing with the Purple Cap, and I wish him the very best, Badoni added. Earlier in the match, East Delhi Riders scored 191/6 in 20 overs after choosing to bat first. Openers Vansh Mehra (27 off 16) and Arpit Rana (with a 54-run stand) provided a solid start, but a mid-innings collapse brought them down to 102/4. He also praised fast bowler Anshuman Hooda. Anshuman has been a fiery bowler for us. He takes wickets at key moments, and I am really glad to have him in the squad. I believe he has a great chance of finishing with the Purple Cap, and I wish him the very best, Badoni added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chasing 192, South Delhi Superstarz swiftly achieved the target. Openers Sanat Sangwan (57 off 33) and Anmol Sharma built a commanding 113-run opening partnership in only 11 overs. After Sangwan's departure, captain Ayush Badoni took charge and quickly intensified the attack, launching a fierce assault on the Riders' bowlers. Badoni and Sharma confidently led their team to victory with over three overs remaining, securing a decisive win. Article Source: IANS
'70 per cent watch club games': Is bilateral cricket in danger?
Former India cricketer Harbhajan Singh believes the exploding popularity of T20 leagues, particularly the IPL, poses a significant threat to the future of bilateral international cricket, stating that '70 per cent (people are watching club cricket instead of international cricket)'.
Starc Surpasses Rangana Herath To Become Leading Left-arm Bowler In Tests
Marrara Cricket Ground: Veteran Australia fast bowler Mitchell Starc surpassed Sri Lanka great Rangana Herath to become the most successful left-arm bowler in the history of Test cricket. Starc reached the landmark during the opening Test against Bangladesh at Marrara Cricket Ground when he dismissed opener Shadman Islam. The wicket took his Test tally to 434, moving him one clear of Heraths 433 wickets. The milestone came in Starcs 106th Test and added another significant achievement to an already decorated career. He is now level with former India captain Kapil Dev on 434 Test wickets and is closing in on South Africa pace legend Dale Steyn, who sits 10th on the all-time list with 439 scalps. Starc needs six more wickets to move past Steyn and enter the top 10 of Test crickets leading wicket-takers. The Australians achievement also strengthens his position at the top of the left-arm wicket-taking charts. Herath is second with 433 wickets, followed by Pakistan great Wasim Akram with 414. New Zealands Daniel Vettori has 362, while Sri Lankas Chaminda Vaas has 355. Indias Ravindra Jadeja is sixth among left-arm bowlers with 348 Test wickets. Starc had entered the Bangladesh series with 433 wickets and the possibility of overtaking both Kapil Dev and Steyn firmly in sight. Ahead of the series, however, the 36-year-old played down the importance of personal milestones, stressing that Australias wider objectives remained his priority. It means Ive played a bit. It is cool and very humbling to be spoken about with those guys. But that stuff doesnt mean a whole lot while youre still playing. You dont get too far ahead, Starc had said ahead of the series as quoted by ICC. Starc has been one of Australias most consistent performers in the ongoing WTC cycle. Before the Bangladesh series, he had taken 46 wickets in eight Tests, including 31 during Australias Ashes victory over England. However, his historic achievement was accompanied by a difficult day for Australia with the bat. After winning the toss and choosing to bat first, Australia were bowled out for only 198 in the opening Test at Darwin. Starc has been one of Australias most consistent performers in the ongoing WTC cycle. Before the Bangladesh series, he had taken 46 wickets in eight Tests, including 31 during Australias Ashes victory over England. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Starc then gave Australia an early breakthrough with Shadman Islams dismissal, taking his personal tally to 434 and moving beyond Herath. Article Source: IANS
Ex-India Star Blames Captain, Coach And Selectors For Jasprit Bumrah's Injury
Jasprit Bumrah was ruled out of the final ODI in England last month due to an impact on his knee. As per multiple reports, the injury only aggravated his recurring knee issue.
'If Rohit, Kohli score runs why should we look at their age?'
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has voiced strong support for Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma to feature in the 2027 ODI World Cup, emphasising that performance, not age, should be the primary criterion for selection.
'Bohot badhiya banda': Harbhajan reveals Gambhir's true side
Former India spinner Harbhajan Singh has expressed his bewilderment at the continuous criticism directed towards Gautam Gambhir since he assumed the role of national head coach, acknowledging that Gambhir's direct approach might not appeal to everyone.
AUS vs BAN 1st Test: Hasan Mahmud takes six wickets as Bangladesh bowls out Australia for 198
Hasan struck in his sixth and seventh overs to remove openers Jake Weatherald (23) and Travis Head (22)
Mitchell Starc sets new world record in first Test against Bangladesh in Darwin
On International Left-Handers Day, Mitchell Starc produced a milestone perfectly suited to the occasion. The Australian quick dismissed Shadman Islam for 20 runs in Darwin to move to 434 Test wickets, surpassing Sri Lankas Rangana Herath, who claimed 433 wickets, to become the most prolific left-arm bowler in Test history.
'My Job Is To Only Take Wickets': Nabi Reflects On Long Wait For India Selection
Galle International Stadium: Jammu and Kashmir seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi admitted he had expectations of earning an India call-up after his sensational Ranji Trophy campaign but insisted he remained focused on performing rather than worrying about selection, a mindset that eventually helped him earn his maiden Test call-up. Nabi claimed 60 wickets in the Ranji Trophy last season and played a pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmirs historic maiden title triumph. Yet, despite finishing as the competitions highest wicket-taker and playing a key role in the championship-winning campaign, the India call-up did not come immediately. The 29-year-old said he had expected to be rewarded for his performances but maintained that his responsibility was simply to keep delivering on the field. Yes, I had expectations. But at the same time, a cricket players mindset should be there. Your job is to perform, and the rest will see. If not today, I will join the India team tomorrow, Nabi said in a video released by the BCCI. You have been doing well for so many years. You have to reap the fruits of your hard work. I had the same mindset when I bowled. My job is to take wickets and perform. The rest is up to God, he added. Nabis patience eventually paid off when he was called up to Indias Test squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka as a replacement for injured pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. The call came at an unexpected moment for Nabi, who was at the airport preparing to travel to Bengaluru for a camp. I was at the airport; we had to go to a camp. The flight was going to board in Bangalore, so I got a call asking where I was. I said, Sir, I am going to Bangalore, I am at the airport. He said, No, you dont have to go there, you have to come to Sri Lanka, and you have been selected. At first, I couldnt believe it; it was unexpected, he said. Nabi's India selection comes after two outstanding Ranji Trophy seasons in which Nabi amassed 104 wickets. His exploits in the 2025-26 campaign also helped Jammu and Kashmir secure their maiden Ranji Trophy title. I am very happy that I have been named Ranji Champion. My family is very happy. Nothing can be better than this for me, he said. Nabis domestic performances had earlier earned him his maiden IPL contract with Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. He featured in five games, while also representing India A on the tour of Sri Lanka, where he picked up six wickets in two four-day matches as India A won the series 1-0. He had previously been part of the national setup as a back-up net bowler during Indias one-off Test against Afghanistan, but his latest selection marks his first inclusion in the senior Test squad. Nabi said entering the Indian dressing room has been a special experience, particularly because many of the players he is now sharing the nets and dressing room with are those he had watched on television. He had previously been part of the national setup as a back-up net bowler during Indias one-off Test against Afghanistan, but his latest selection marks his first inclusion in the senior Test squad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will begin their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium on August 15. Article Source: IANS
Injury-Hit India Set For Trial By Spin In Sri Lanka Test Series Opener
An inexperienced India missing several key players face Sri Lanka in Galle from Saturday in the first of two Tests with coach Gautam Gambhir under immense pressure.
If You Want To Play Test Cricket For India, You Have To Be Patient: Saransh Jain
Rewarded for a decade of relentless toil in domestic cricket, Madhya Pradesh off-spinner Saransh Jain said patience has been central to his journey as he finally earned his maiden India Test call-up.
'Many People Can't Digest Truth': Harbhajan Singh Gives Blunt Verdict On Gautam Gambhir
Harbhajan Singh is perplexed by the constant criticism Gautam Gambhir has drawn since taking over as head coach but acknowledges that not everyone will find his former teammate's style of elling the bitter truths palatable.
Heinrich Malan Returns To Central Stags As Coach
The Ford Trophy: Heinrich Malan returned to the Central Stags as coach on a three-year deal, starting this month, taking over the reins from former captain Greg Hay (last summer's Plunket Shield and Ford Trophy coach - achieving the national title in the latter) and another former Stags batter, Ben F. Smith (Super Smash). Malan's appointment brings an experienced international coach back into New Zealand's domestic setup after a stint that took him well beyond the country's provincial game. His latest assignment ended on a high, having overseen Ireland's remarkable 2-0 T20I series victory over reigning world champions India. His first spell in charge with Stags began in Napier in 2013, when he arrived as a relatively young coach following his playing career in South Africa. He left them several few years later with two titles in the Plunket Shield and The Ford Trophy and the prized 2019 Super Smash trophy after repeat Grand Final appearances. Malan then went on to coach the Auckland Aces for a couple of seasons after that (bringing home more titles) before his first full international appointment as Test nation Ireland's head coach in 2022. His earlier work with Central also left a lasting imprint on players who went on to represent New Zealand. Fast bowler Blair Tickner and spinner Ajaz Patel have both identified Malan as an important influence during their development, underlining the emphasis he placed on refining emerging talent. Malan was then appointed by NZC as New Zealand A's head coach for both internal and overseas tours and seconded to the BlackCaps as a batting coach on a short-term contract as well, before his career move to Ireland. His earlier work with Central also left a lasting imprint on players who went on to represent New Zealand. Fast bowler Blair Tickner and spinner Ajaz Patel have both identified Malan as an important influence during their development, underlining the emphasis he placed on refining emerging talent. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'm looking forward to getting to know the newer faces there and there is huge satisfaction in putting those lads in a position where they can go out and showcase their skills and contribute, so I can't wait to get my hands dirty again from a training perspective at the domestic level this summer. To coach hands-on is something that genuinely still excites me. I have got a huge fire in my belly for it, he added. Article Source: IANS
Australia register lowest Test score vs Bangladesh after Hasan Mahmud claims six in Darwin
Australia were bundled for only 198 runs in the first innings against Bangladesh in Darwin. Just three days prior to the opening Test, the Najmul Shanto-led side were bowled out for 54 runs against Cricket Australia XI in the practice match and hence, they were expected to be low on confidence and be on the backfoot against a star-studded Australian team. In reality, the Bangladesh pacers, particularly Hasan Mahmud, wreaked havoc.
'You Have To Be Patient In Test Cricket': Saransh Jain On Decade-long Wait For India Call-up
Galle International Stadium: Rewarded for a decade of relentless toil in domestic cricket, Madhya Pradesh off-spinner Saransh Jain said patience have been central to his journey as he finally earned his maiden India Test call-up for the upcoming two-game tour of Sri Lanka. Jain, who made his Ranji Trophy debut in the 2014-15 season, was included in Indias squad for the series against Sri Lanka, with the first Test set to begin at the Galle International Stadium on Saturday. Reflecting on the moment he found out about his selection, Jain said he was on his way to a temple when he noticed a string of calls and messages on his phone. When I got the call, I was in a temple. I was driving there, and I saw a call and messages in between. Then I came to know that I was selected, Jain said in a video shared by the BCCI. The 33-year-old has spent more than a decade playing domestic cricket and said he did not feel overwhelmed after joining the India squad, largely because he has already played with most of his new teammates. Ranji Trophy has an atmosphere. When I joined the team three days ago, I didnt feel much difference. 70-80 per cent of the players I have played cricket with. So I think I have mixed up with all of them, he said. Jain also stressed that patience is essential for anyone aspiring to play Test cricket for India, pointing to his own long wait as an example. You have to be patient in Test cricket. If you want to play Test cricket for India, you have to be patient. I have been patient since I started my career. I made my Ranji Trophy debut in 2014-15. It has been a long journey. It has been a lot of hard work and sacrifices. One day, I will definitely play for India. That was my feeling, he said. Jains family has played a key role in keeping him grounded throughout his career, with his father himself having represented Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy. My family is behind me. My dad is a Ranji Trophy player. He told me to be patient. Things will come to you automatically, Jain said. Jain, who bats left-handed, has been a regular member of India A sides and has amassed 2,223 runs and 188 wickets in 54 first-class appearances. He spent years on the periphery before enjoying a breakthrough in 2022, when he claimed 13 wickets and scored a crucial fifty in the knockout stages to help Madhya Pradesh win their maiden Ranji Trophy title. My family is behind me. My dad is a Ranji Trophy player. He told me to be patient. Things will come to you automatically, Jain said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He had also served as a net bowler when India faced Afghanistan in New Chandigarh. Now, after years of waiting, Jain is finally on the brink of making his Test debut for India. Article Source: IANS
'Stop Being A Princess': Fan Takes Dig At Steve Smith. This Is The Reason
A fan in attendance during the first Test against Bangladesh delivered a hilarious reply to batter Steve Smith after he halted play momentarily due to sight screen issues at Darwin.
How To Dismiss Vaibhav Sooryavanshi? Harbhajan Singh Reveals Masterplan: 'Will Not Work'
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has stunned the cricketing world with his sensational batting performances in the past one year.
After Agarkar, India Needs A Visionary Chief Selector
To select the best from the abundance of talent in India is no easy task. Talent can win matches, but it is the right selection that will herald a golden era, points out K R Nayar.
Amy Satterthwaite Appointed Canterbury Womens Head Coach
Former New Zealand: Former New Zealand captain Amy Satterthwaite has been appointed head coach of Canterbury Women for the upcoming domestic season, becoming the only woman to lead a New Zealand domestic side this summer. Satterthwaite spent two decades representing Canterbury before ending her playing career after the 2022-23 domestic season. She now returned to the setup where she built much of her cricketing legacy, succeeding Rhys Morgan after his six-year spell in charge. Morgan had guided Canterbury to two Super Smash titles, in 2020-21 and 2022-23, as well as the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield in 2020-21. Satterthwaite called time on her New Zealand career in 2022 before moving into coaching with the Adelaide Strikers in the WBBL, where she took up an assistant coach role. After retiring from domestic cricket, she returned to Canterbury last December in a different capacity as the women's pathway lead. Now, she takes charge of the senior side. Satterthwaite brings a deep understanding of Canterbury's cricketing ecosystem. She played for the province for 20 years and amassed 5,147 runs, a mark that made her the team's leading run-scorer overall before Frankie Mackay eventually moved past her. Her 2,925 T20 runs, meanwhile, remain unmatched by any Canterbury player. Her international credentials are equally significant. Across 15 years with New Zealand, Satterthwaite played 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is, while establishing herself as one of the most influential figures in the country's women's cricket history. One statistic perhaps best captures her place in the record books: Satterthwaite remains the only woman, and one of only two cricketers alongside Kumar Sangakkara, to score centuries in four successive ODIs. Now, she takes charge of the senior side. Satterthwaite brings a deep understanding of Canterbury's cricketing ecosystem. She played for the province for 20 years and amassed 5,147 runs, a mark that made her the team's leading run-scorer overall before Frankie Mackay eventually moved past her. Her 2,925 T20 runs, meanwhile, remain unmatched by any Canterbury player. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Donkers had served as Peter Fulton's assistant before Fulton departed Canterbury midway through last season to take charge of Middlesex. Donkers subsequently guided the side as interim head coach and has now been handed the permanent position. Article Source: IANS
Harbhajan Singh Picks S Sreesanth As His Choice For Roommate, Gives Stunning Reason
The relationship between former Indian cricket team players S Sreesanth and Harbhajan Singh has been quite bitter over the years.
India vs Pakistan At Asian Games 2026? Only 2 Scenarios Can Make It Happen
The Asian Games is scheduled to begin on September 19 and run until October 4, with cricket making its fourth appearance at the event.
SKY-Devisha's First Flight With Baby Girl
Cricketer Suryakumar Yadav and his wife Devisha Shetty celebrated a milestone, taking their daughter Riddhima on her very first flight, just weeks after her birth on May 7, 2026.
Taskin Ahmed's funny dance goes viral after dismissing Cameron Green: WATCH
Bangladesh made an early statement in their first Test in Australia since 2003. The Najmul Shanto-led side left the hosts reeling at 74/4 before the opening session ended in Darwin. Bangladeshs pace attack took advantage...
DPL 2026: South Delhi Superstarz Register Comfortable Win Over East Delhi Riders
For South Delhi Superstarz: South Delhi Superstarz produced a dominant batting performance to defeat East Delhi Riders comfortably by nine wickets in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026. Batting first, East Delhi Riders posted a strong 191/6 in 20 overs, with Sujal Singh and Suryansh Raina playing key roles in the middle and final stages of the innings. The Riders got off to a steady start as Vansh Mehra and Arpit Rana added 54 runs for the first wicket. Mehra scored 27 off 16 balls before his dismissal triggered a mini-collapse. The Riders soon slipped to 102/4, putting their innings under pressure. However, Sujal Singh and Suryansh Raina steadied the innings with a 58-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Raina scored 28 off 26 balls before being dismissed, while Sujal remained unbeaten on a fine 63 off 39 balls to help the Riders finish strongly. For South Delhi Superstarz, Anshuman Hooda was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 34 runs in his four overs. Chasing 192, South Delhi Superstarz made a flying start. Openers Sanat Sangwan and Anmol Sharma put together 113 runs in just 11 overs, putting the chase firmly in their control. Both batters scored impressive half-centuries, with Sangwan making 57 off 33 balls before his dismissal. Sharma continued the attack after being joined by Ayush Badoni, who immediately put the Riders under pressure. Chasing 192, South Delhi Superstarz made a flying start. Openers Sanat Sangwan and Anmol Sharma put together 113 runs in just 11 overs, putting the chase firmly in their control. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Delhi Superstarz eventually completed the chase with more than three overs to spare, underlining their dominance with both bat and ball. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh Pacer's Bizarre Celebration Goes Viral During 1st Test Against Australia - Video
Bangladesh cricket team fast bowler Taskin Ahmed came up with a bizarre celebration after dismissing Australia batter Cameron Green on Day 1 of their first Test match.
'101 against RCB set my career up'
South African batter David Miller considers his unbeaten 101 against Royal Challengers Bengaluru in IPL 2013 as his most rewarding league innings, highlighting its role in shaping his career. He also discussed mastering the art of finishing games and his favourite IPL memory, winning the title with Gujarat Titans in 2022.
For That, Shubman Gill Will Always Be Questioned: Ex-India Star Ahead Of Sri Lanka Test Series
Former India cricketer Murali Kartik believes the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka will be a significant test of Shubman Gill's captaincy.
Satterthwaite to coach Canterbury Women in NZ domestic season
Brendon Donkers takes over as the head coach of Canterbury in the men's circuit
Holder and Netravalkar three-fors set up straightforward win for Patriots
Andre Fletcher led the chase with an unbeaten 41-ball 48 after St Lucia Kings had put up a below-par 156 for 5
