Cricket News

'May not always pay off' - Green promises to bat positively in Adelaide too

Green takes lessons moving forward after embarrassing dismissal to Carse in Brisbane

McCullum warns against 'knee-jerk reactions' to England batting line-up

The England coach said speculation over his future doesn't really bother me as he spoke to the media to take heat off his players

ILT20: Jahangirs 99 Steers Dubai Capitals To A Thrilling Nine-Run Victory Over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders

The Dubai Capitals fended off the Abu Dhabi Knight Riders to secure a nine-run victory at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Saturday. The Capitals produced a composed performance to register a deserved win, riding on a dominant middle-overs effort led by batter Shayan Jahangir. They then held their nerve with the ball to withstand a late onslaught from Andre Russell that ultimately fell short to seal their second win of the season. Batting first, the Capitals recovered from early setbacks through a defining 115-run partnership between Jordan Cox (29 off 30) and Jahangir. He anchored the innings before falling agonisingly short of a century on 99, hitting 10 fours and five sixes and propelling the Capitals to a formidable 196/5. This was the highest score by an associate player in the DP World ILT20. In response, ADKR never quite recovered from regular wickets. Although Russells (53* off 33) explosive late cameo injected hope, it ultimately proved insufficient as the Capitals held their nerve to seal a deserved win. Chasing a stiff target, ADKR came under early pressure despite a brisk start from Phil Salt (33 off 29). Alex Hales (11 off 7) added impetus with two fours off David Willey before edging behind, and the innings soon stalled as Willey removed Sherfane Rutherford (7 off 6) and Liam Livingstone (7 off 5) was run out, leaving ADKR 49/3 at the end of the powerplay. Salt and Brandon McMullen (18 off 15) steadied the chase, but Waqar Salamkheil broke through in the 10th over as Salt holed out to Willey. Alishan Sharafu (26 off 14) counter-attacked with a pair of sixes, yet Salamkheil struck again to dismiss McMullen, before Mohammad Nabi removed Sunil Narine (1 off 2). Sharafu hit one more six before becoming Salamkheils 10th wicket of the season. Jason Holder (22 off 9) and Russell revived hopes with a rapid 46-run stand off 20 balls, taking 18 off Mustafizur Rahman and 12 off Salamkheil. Rahman, however, broke the stand at a key moment. Despite Russells late blows, Muhammad Jawadullah defended 26 in the final over to seal a deserved win for the Capitals. Earlier, the Capitals were rocked early, reduced to 4/2 inside the powerplay. Ajay Kumar dismissed Leus du Plooy (2 off 6), before Holder drew a loose shot from Toby Albert (2 off 3), brilliantly caught by Andre Russell. Cox and Jahangir then rebuilt, guiding the Capitals to 32/2 at the end of the powerplay. Jahangir took control through the middle overs, putting the ADKR bowlers under pressure. He brought up his half-century with his fourth six of the innings, off George Garton in the ninth over, as the momentum firmly shifted in the Capitals favour. Alongside Cox, Jahangir added a crucial 115 runs in 68 balls to rescue the innings. Holder finally broke the partnership in the 14th over, trapping Cox LBW, but the Capitals momentum remained intact. Jahangir continued the assault with Rovman Powell (38* off 24), the pair adding 66 off 36 balls. Powell struck 20 runs off Ibrar Ahmad in the 18th over and followed it with two sixes off Holder in the 19th. Jahangir fell agonisingly short of a century, bowled by Russell on 99, before late boundaries ensured the Capitals closed on 196/5. Brief Scores: Dubai Capitals beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by nine runs Dubai Capitals 196/5 in 20 overs (Shayan Jahangir 99, Rovman Powell 38 not out, Jordan Cox 29, Jason Holder 2 for 22, Andre Russell 2 for 32) Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 187/8 in 20 overs (Andre Russell 53 not out, Phil Salt 33, Alishan Sharafu 26, Waqar Salamkheil 3 for 34, David Willey 2 for 37) Player of the match: Shayan Jahangir Also Read: Live Cricket Score

Green available to bowl in IPL, manager 'stuff-up' registered him as batter

The Australia allrounder, who is tipped to be the most expensive buy, said he will be following the auction

Villani retires from WBBL after fairytale finish with Hobart Hurricanes

The Hurricanes captain announced her retirement from the competition after securing the club's first title

IND vs SA 3rd T20I: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of Dharamsala Clash

IND vs SA 3rd T20I,T20IApproaching Milestones and Records :The Indian Cricket Team and the South African Cricket Team are ready to indulge in yet another exciting battle. This time, these two teams will take on each other in the Dharamsala cricket match. The third T20I will be played at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association on Sunday, starting at 7 PM IST. The two teams have won one game each. India won the opening game by 101 runs in Cuttack, and South Africa managed to record a comprehensive win in the second game in Mullanpur. The Proteas have the momentum, having won the previous game. Team India have looked rusty in both departments and are searching for a better show. There are a few Indian batters who have not looked in good form and are struggling. This match will be crucial for those players. Quinton de Kock slammed a quickfire 90 in the previous game and made some records. Already in two games, there are some big records which have been broken. There are some notable milestones, which can be achieved in the coming game on Sunday. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the India vs South Africa3rd T20I clash at Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala. IND vs SA 3rd T20I: Approaching Test Records and T20ICricket Milestones Ahead of the IND vs SA 3rd T20IatHimachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala 61 - Star all-rounder Hardik Pandya has a chance to become only the fifth Indian to score 2000 T20I runs. He needs 61 more runs to achieve the landmark. 1 - Hardik is also one wicket away from becoming only the third Indian after Arshdeep Singh and Jasprit Bumrah to take 100 T20I wickets. 9 - South African opener Reeza Hendricks is just nine runs away from becoming only the third South African with 2500 T20I runs. 1 - Arshdeep went wicketless in the second game. He is just one wicket away from surpassing Lasith Malinga (107) in T20Is. 2 - Lungi Ngidi has 76 wickets, and with two more wickets, he will surpass Kagiso Rabada (77) and become South Africa's highest T20I wicket-taker. 1 - Varun Charkravarthy is just one wicket away from completing 50 T20I wickets. He will be the joint-fastest Indian and second-fastest bowler among Test-playing nations to do this. 5 - After Gill's failure, there are chances that Sanju Samson might play. If he plays in the third game, he needs five runs to complete 1000 T20I runs. 1 - Jasprit Bumrah has bowled 12 maidens in T20Is, which is the fourth-most. If he can bowl one more, he will have the third-most maidens in T20Is. Also Read: Live Cricket Score 1 - Lungi Ngidi is just one wicket away from becoming only the 12th South African with 250 international wickets to his name.

3rd T20I: South Africa Are pretty Clear On Mens T20 World Cup Lineup, Says Conrad

T20 World Cup: South Africa head coach Shukri Conrad said any adjustments in the Proteas buildup to the Mens T20 World Cup will be aimed at managing the workload of players instead of doubts over their roles, adding that the think tank is pretty clear on their line-up for the mega event. South Africa rested Tristan Stubbs, Keshav Maharaj, and Anrich Nortje in their 51-run win over India in New Chandigarh as part of a rotation policy. For the series-levelling victory leading to the scoreline being 1-1, the Proteas had brought in Reeza Hendricks, Ottniel Baartman, and George Linde in their playing eleven. It might look as if we're slightly unsure, given the number of changes we make every match. But it's certainly not changes for the sake of being changes. We have a pretty good idea of what our World Cup squad will be like. Again, it's really just managing players. There are a few guys who have been here since the Test Series. And then we've also got SA20 after this. So, really just about managing players and then also giving everybody a good run. See what works here, what doesn't work. But, we're pretty clear in terms of what we want, Conrad told reporters ahead of the third T20I, to be played on Sunday. After the T20I series ends, South Africas players will be playing in SA20, starting on Boxing Day and ending on January 25. Post that, their attention will be on the Men's T20 World Cup set to take place from February 7 to March 8. Conrad said confidence in the camp is high after the win in the second T20I, but added they are adequately prepared for countering the dewy conditions. Look, it's always nice getting a win, and it does raise the confidence, especially after how the first match went. But again, I think sometimes you come to a ground where historically the scores are quite high, and you feel that you need to be pitching at a certain mark, and then you find yourself in a little bit of trouble. So again, we certainly don't have any specific target in mind in terms of where we want to reach as a batting unit. But we're pretty confident in our all-round game. We did a lot of work before the series, bowling with a slightly wet ball during the ODIs. The hard works been done, he elaborated. But again, I think sometimes you come to a ground where historically the scores are quite high, and you feel that you need to be pitching at a certain mark, and then you find yourself in a little bit of trouble. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Then obviously well just see how we pair that up. Aidens done a great job. I think last year he had a wonderful IPL opening the batting. Hes also batted at No. 3 and 4 in previous World Cups. But I dont think youll see him bat lower than No 3 if I were to give anything away. Article Source: IANS

Scotland call up Thaker and Tekale for men's Under-19 World Cup

Thomas Knight will lead their side of 15 in Zimbabwe, whom Scotland face in their opener

U19 Asia Cup: Openers Help Bangladesh Secure Thrilling Three-wicket Win Over Afghanistan

U19 Asia Cup: Openers Rifat Beg and Zawad Abrar hit half-centuries each and helped Bangladesh edge Afghanistan by three wickets in their Group B clash of the Mens U19 Asia Cup at The ICC Academy in Dubai on Saturday. After Faisal Shinozada top-scored with 103, as Afghanistan posted 283/7, Bangladesh completed the chase with an over to spare despite a late collapse. Bangladesh appeared in control for a breezy end to the chase at 236/ 2, needing only 48 runs off 45 balls with eight wickets in hand. But four wickets fell in the space of four overs, giving Afghanistan a glimmer of hope. All-rounder Rizan Hossans brisk 17 not out eventually settled nerves and carried Bangladesh home with seven balls remaining. Openers Abrar and Beg laid the platform for Bangladeshs win with a rollicking 151-run stand. While Beg fell for 62 in the 27th over, Abrar missed out on a century, dismissed for 96 by Roohullah Arab. Captain Azizul Hakim and Kalam Siddiki added 66 for the third wicket, but a middle-order wobble threatened to derail the chase before Hossans late intervention got them over the line. Afghanistans innings was built around Shinozadas fluent 103 off 94 balls, laced with eight fours and four sixes. He shared partnerships of 66 with Osman Sadat and 89 with Uzairullah Niazai to push the score past 200. Despite his efforts, Afghanistan slipped to 225/7 in the 46th over, before Azizullah Miakhil (38) and Abdul Aziz (26) lifted them to 283 with a rapid unbroken stand of 58 off 28 balls, though it was not enough to save them from a loss to Bangladesh. Afghanistans innings was built around Shinozadas fluent 103 off 94 balls, laced with eight fours and four sixes. He shared partnerships of 66 with Osman Sadat and 89 with Uzairullah Niazai to push the score past 200. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Afghanistan U19 283/7 in 50 overs (Faisal Shinozada 103, Uzairullah Niazai 44, Shahriar Ahmed 2-43, Iqbal Hossain Emon 2-63) lost to Bangladesh U19 284/7 in 48.5 overs (Zawad Abrar 96, Rifat Beg 62; Khatir Stanikzai 2-46, Roohullah Arab 2-48) by three wickets Article Source: IANS

Zawad Abrar's 96 leads Bangladesh Under-19s to victory in thrilling finish

Faisal Shinozada's century propelled Afghanistan Under-19s to 283 earlier, but the total was not enough

3rd T20I: If You Are Mentally Strong, You Can Do Well At Any Number, Says Tilak Varma

The HPCA Stadium: Ahead of the third T20I against South Africa, Indias left-handed batter Tilak Varma said being mentally strong allows a batter to succeed at any position in the batting order. Indias batting flexibility left everyone puzzled when Axar Patel was sent out to bat at number three in a chase of 214 in New Chandigarh. But Axar struggled to get rhythm and fell for a run-a-ball 21, as India fell short by 51 runs. Amidst the likes of Shubman Gill and Suryakumar Yadav not getting big runs, Tilak gave India something to cheer by making a 34-ball 62. Everyone is flexible except openers. Everyone is flexible and open to bat anywhere. I am up for batting at 3, 4, 5, 6, or anywhere. Where the team prefers for me to bat, I am up for it. Everyone knows that they are flexible in every batting order. If you are mentally strong, you can do well in any number, said Tilak in the pre-match press conference. Asked about the Indian teams decision to send Axar at three ahead of recognised batters, including himself, Tilak said, It depends. As you can see, Axar Patel has already done the same thing in the World Cup, and he has done well in that position as well. It keeps happening in one odd game. It depends on the situation. In a tactical situation, if the team feels that it is the best in that situation, then anyone goes ahead, keeping in mind the teams interests. Ups and downs happen, but the same player has done that in the World Cup as well. I am ready to bat anywhere for the team, and I will always try to do my best for the team. The other players are doing the same, and as I said, everything is flexible, and we are making the decisions that we feel will benefit the team. The HPCA Stadium has shown a trend of producing high-scoring pitches, and Tilak felt batting first or chasing wont matter much at the venue. I have played previously here in the Under-19 series for India. After that, I am coming here now, and we are just going to watch the wicket. I think there will be a high-scoring wicket here. We will play with a positive intent, he said. In the first two matches, the one who bats first has won. Because the weather is cold everywhere, there is a little bit of seam and swing for the bowlers. So I think there is not much difference in batting first and second. Unfortunately, we collapsed in the last game, but we will play with the same intent. Whatever we have been doing in the last 15-20 matches, we will play with the same intent and get good results. So, I would say, it won't matter much if it's the first or second batting because the match starts at 7 pm and that is the time when dew starts to form, he added. In the first two matches, the one who bats first has won. Because the weather is cold everywhere, there is a little bit of seam and swing for the bowlers. So I think there is not much difference in batting first and second. Unfortunately, we collapsed in the last game, but we will play with the same intent. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There was a due in ODIs as well, and we have mentally prepared for it in practice. We don't have the toss result in our hands, but we are mentally preparing for the dew. We have practised before, and the ball does get a little wet. But we have prepared for whatever we can get in the game during the practice. Article Source: IANS

India vs South Africa, 3rd T20I - Who will win today IND vs SA match?

IND vs SA , 3rd T20I , Cricket Tips :Team India were left stunned in Mullanpur as South Africa bulldozed through them and recorded a 51-run win to level the series. It was a clinical win for the Proteas, as India didn't have any answer to the tourists. That raised many questions of form and selection of the Indian team. Team India and South Africa will now be up against each other in the third T20I on Sunday. This game will be held at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association in Dharamsala at 7 PM IST. Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill have been under the scanner. because of their form, and they need runs in the next game. IND vs SA: Match Details Date : December 14, 2025 (Sunday) Time : 7:00 PM IST Venue : Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium, Dharamsala IND vs SA: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can tune into the Star Sports Networks on cable TV networks for the live action of the third T20I. Fans can also enjoy the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND vs SA: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 33 India : 19 South Africa : 13 No-Result : 01 IND vs SA: Ground Pitch Report The surface in Dharamsala is fast and bouncy. It is considered a great track for the fast bowlers because of the bounce it has. Batters can also use this bounce to play big shots. The toss will have a big role as bowling first will be ideal in these conditions. IND vs SA: Possible XIs India : Suryakumar Yadav (c), Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, Axar Patel, Tilak Varma, Hardik Pandya, Shivam Dube, Jitesh Sharma (wk), Arshdeep Singh, Jasprit Bumrah, Varun Chakaravarthy South Africa : Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (wk), Dewald Brevis, Aiden Markram (c), David Miller, George Linde, Donovan Ferreira, Marco Jansen, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi, Ottneil Baartman IND vs SA: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Abhishek Sharma has had two starts, but he has yet to deliver a big knock. But he is expected to play a match-winning knock in this game. Quinton de Kock played a brilliant knock in the second game. He will be the one to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Lungi Ngidi has been brilliant in two games. He has taken wickets with new and old balls. For India, Varun Chakravarthy is the one who has troubled South Africa in both games. Today Match Prediction : South Africa have the momentum, and the way they have performed, they have a good chance. But India will have the edge of home conditions, and we predict India to win the third game. IND vs SA Match 3rd T20I, Today Match IND vs SA, IND vs SA Prediction, IND vs SA Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between India vs South Africa Also Read: Live Cricket Score Disclaimer : The prediction or cricket tips are purely based on the understanding and research of the writer. So kindly make sure to consider the points above while making your predictions.

U19 Asia Cup: Seneviratnes Five-for Powers Sri Lanka To Big Win Over Nepal

The Sevens Stadium: Sethmika Seneviratnes five-wicket haul set up Sri Lankas emphatic eight-wicket win over Nepal in their Group B clash of the Mens Under-19 Asia Cup at The Sevens Stadium on Saturday. Asked to bat first by Sri Lanka captain Vimath Dinsara, Nepal were steady at 30 without loss before a run out of Niraj Kumar Yadav for 10 in the eighth over resulted in the innings unravelling quickly. Seneviratne struck in successive spells, removing Sahil Patel (12), Vansh Chhetri (0), and Dilsad Ali (0) to leave Nepal reeling at 37/4, with the side losing their four wickets for just seven runs within six overs. Captain Ashok Dhami and Cibrin Shrestha (18) briefly resisted with a 24-run stand, but Rasith Nimsara struck to dismiss the former for nine at the start of the 21st over. From there, Nepal folded to 82 all out, with Shrestha being the top run-scorer. Seneviratne completed incredible figures of 5-25, and was ably supported by Rasith Nimsara, Vigneshwaran Akash, Dulnith Sigera, and Chamika Heenatigala, taking a scalp each. Sri Lankas chase of 83 was briefly dented when Nepal reduced them to 25/2, Dayanand Mandal getting a scalp. But Dimantha Mahavithana (39) and Kavija Gamage (24) ensured there were no further alarms in Sri Lankas chase. Their unbroken 59-run stand for the third wicket sealed victory for Sri Lanka with 35.1 overs to spare. Sri Lanka will next face Afghanistan at the ICC Academy Ground in Dubai on Monday, while Nepal is slated to take on Bangladesh on the same day. Sri Lankas chase of 83 was briefly dented when Nepal reduced them to 25/2, Dayanand Mandal getting a scalp. But Dimantha Mahavithana (39) and Kavija Gamage (24) ensured there were no further alarms in Sri Lankas chase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Nepal U19 82 all out in 28.5 overs (Cibrin Shrestha 18, Sethmika Seneviratne 5-25, Dulnith Sigera 1-3) lost to Sri Lanka U19 84/2 in 14.5 overs (Dimantha Mahavithana 39 not out, Kavija Gamage 24 not out, Dayanand Mandal 1-16) by eight wickets Article Source: IANS

WBBL 2025: Lizelle Lee Scripts History As Hobart Hurricanes Lift Maiden Title

Big Bash League Women: Lizelle Lee produced a commanding performance to steer Hobart Hurricanes to their first-ever Womens Big Bash League title, dismantling Perth Scorchers in a one-sided final with a thunderous, unbeaten half-century. After a disciplined bowling effort restricted the Scorchers to 137/5, the Hurricanes made light work of the chase, cruising home with five overs to spare. Lee set the tone immediately, striking three boundaries in the opening over, before Danielle Wyatt-Hodge followed suit to propel the Hurricanes to a brisk start. The early onslaught left the Scorchers on the back foot as Hobart raced to 24 without loss after two overs. Wyatt-Hodge departed in the sixth over, but any hopes of a fightback were quickly dashed. Lee maintained her dominance against the bowlers, while Nat Sciver-Brunt contributed timely boundaries to keep the required rate comfortably manageable. The decisive moment arrived when Lee launched Alana King for consecutive sixes, before finding the gaps for a couple of boundaries in the following over. The flurry of shots brought up her half-century and effectively sealed the contest. Although Sciver-Brunt perished later in the game, Lee remained unbeaten, with her innings also setting a new record for the highest individual score in a WBBL final. Earlier, the Scorchers struggled to find momentum after electing to bat, perhaps feeling the toll of a demanding schedule that had seen them play their third match in five days. The Power-play yielded little fluency, with Katie Mack falling for 17 off 21 deliveries. Beth Mooney, in fine form coming into the final, was handed several chances but failed to convert them before being eventually bowled by Heather Graham for 33. Sophie Devine and Paige Scholfield attempted to lift the scoring rate through the middle overs, but the Hobart bowlers kept chipping away. With four overs remaining, Scorchers sat at 106/4 and were eyeing a late surge. Devine briefly threatened the opposition with a six before being stumped in the next over. Despite a few boundaries from Scholfield, a sluggish final over curtailed any hopes of a competitive total. The Scorchers closed on 137 for 5, a score that proved well short of the mark against a Hurricanes side inspired by Lees ruthless finishing, as Hobart celebrated a historic WBBL triumph. Sophie Devine and Paige Scholfield attempted to lift the scoring rate through the middle overs, but the Hobart bowlers kept chipping away. With four overs remaining, Scorchers sat at 106/4 and were eyeing a late surge. Devine briefly threatened the opposition with a six before being stumped in the next over. Despite a few boundaries from Scholfield, a sluggish final over curtailed any hopes of a competitive total. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Perth Scorchers Women 137/5 in 20 overs (Sophie Devine 34, Beth Mooney 33; Linsey Smith 2-8) lost to Hobart Hurricanes Women 141/2 in 15 overs (Lizelle Lee 77*, Nat Sciver-Brunt 35; Amy Edgar 1-13) by 8 wickets Article Source: IANS

Lizelle Lee's 77 takes Hobart Hurricanes to first WBBL win

Two-fors from Heather Graham and Linsey Smith restricted Perth to 137, which Hurricanes chased down with eight wickets to spare

IPL Teams Will Definitely Eye Nizar For Firepower At Number Five Or Six, Says Karim

Tamil Nadu Premier League: Former India wicketkeeper-batter and selector Saba Karim said the Indian Premier League (IPL) franchises are likely to consider Salman Nizar for adding firepower in the number five or six role when the much-anticipated auction happens in Abu Dhabi on December 16. The left-handed Nizar grabbed everyones attention by smashing 11 sixes off his last 13 deliveries during a Kerala Cricket League (KCL) match for Calicut Globsters. Salman Nizar's credentials are clear from how he has batted in the Kerala Cricket League. He has the power and the clarity to hit big shots. When you find a batter like him with so much promise, where do you place him? I think any IPL franchise looking for an explosive number five or number six batter will definitely consider Salman Nizar in the auction, said Karim on JioStar. Former India batter Abhinav Mukund feels left-handed wicketkeeper-batter Tushar Raheja can trigger a bidding war in the mini IPL auction. Raheja played a pivotal role in Tiruppur Tamizhans' winning the 2025 Tamil Nadu Premier League (TNPL), amassing 488 runs in nine matches at a strike rate of 185.55. Many think Tushar Raheja is young, but he has played in the TNPL for almost seven or eight seasons. He focuses on making big scores, and that stood out this season. He hits the ball well in the Power-play and plays spin very well. He smashed bowlers like Varun Chakaravarthy and Ravichandran Ashwin all over the ground. This is a player who earlier could not make the Tamil Nadu team. But with these performances, it will be hard to ignore him. I believe he has what it takes to succeed in the IPL. He strikes the ball well and hits big sixes. He is also a wicketkeeper, which adds to his value. It is a tough position to get into as an Indian opener, and you need extraordinary skill. But why not? We have seen players like Priyansh Arya make it big. Tushar Raheja definitely has the game, and I am sure some franchises will think about investing in him. This is a player who earlier could not make the Tamil Nadu team. But with these performances, it will be hard to ignore him. I believe he has what it takes to succeed in the IPL. He strikes the ball well and hits big sixes. He is also a wicketkeeper, which adds to his value. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I got a lot of opportunities. I went on a UK tour with the Mumbai Indians. Later, I was a net bowler for them. I go to every other team's trials every year. I know I am very close to being picked. But I needed a push. My performances in the Mumbai T20 league have given me that push. My top three favourite IPL teams are MI, CSK, and RCB, he said. Article Source: IANS

Seneviratne five-for blows Nepal away as Sri Lanka romp home with huge win

Sri Lanka completed the 83 chase with 35.1 overs to spare after Seneviratne's 5 for 25

India under pressure as South Africa keep pushing them into corners

A potentially spicy final week of this exciting tour is now upon us

Ashes: England Face Fresh Scrutiny After Team's Security Altercation With Media

Wales Cricket Board: Englands troubled Ashes campaign has drawn further attention following an incident involving a member of the teams security staff and a Channel Seven cameraman at Brisbane airport. The altercation occurred on Saturday as the England squad was preparing to travel to Adelaide ahead of the third Test, scheduled to begin on Wednesday. Footage shared by Australias Channel 7 shows a member of the England and Wales Cricket Boards (ECB) security team confronting a cameraman during the check-in process. In the video, the ECB security guard is heard repeatedly telling the cameraman to step back. Channel 7 described the exchange as 'aggressive', while images published by CODE Sports appear to show the security official standing back as the cameraman continued filming. The ECB chose not to comment on the incident, which sections of the Australian media have nonetheless seized upon as another setback in what has been portrayed as a difficult tour for England. The episode occurs at a delicate moment for Ben Stokes team, which is trailing 0-2 in the five-match series and facing increasing scrutiny over their readiness. With three Tests left, England are under pressure to prevent losing the Ashes before the upcoming high-profile matches in Melbourne and Sydney. The ECB chose not to comment on the incident, which sections of the Australian media have nonetheless seized upon as another setback in what has been portrayed as a difficult tour for England. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Although the Noosa break was scheduled in advance and justified as a chance for players to reset, images of the squad playing football on the beach did little to reassure critics, who argue that England have struggled to find the right balance during this tour. Article Source: IANS

SMAT: No Matter What, You Have To Give Your Best, Says Reddy After Picking Hat-trick

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Indias seam-bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddy, who took a hat-trick for Andhra in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League stage, said one must look to give their best in every situation, adding that he always feels happy putting in good performances on the field. At the DY Patil Academy Ground in Ambi, Reddy took a hat-trick for Andhra against Madhya Pradesh, though his team ended on the losing side. His triple strike led to him finishing with figures of 3-17, his best return in T20 cricket. It's never an easy tournament to play Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy. It's always been a top league as well. So you have to give your best, no matter what. This is my first hat-trick in senior age group and one I have got before, but it's a pretty same feeling. I mean, I always feel happy when I perform for my state or any team. So giving my best is what I can do and I am feeling so proud, said Reddy in a video posted by the BCCI on their domestic cricket social media accounts on Saturday. Reddys hat-trick came in the third over when he removed Harsh Gawli, Harpreet Bhatia and Rajat Patidar. He further stressed on the importance of planning, belief and execution in getting a memorable hat-trick. I believed that on the third ball, I have to get my scrambled ball to come in very sharply. It came in and you can see that inside edge - that's what happened. I mean, I always feel happy when I perform for my state or any team. So giving my best is what I can do and I am feeling so proud, said Reddy in a video posted by the BCCI on their domestic cricket social media accounts on Saturday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The plan was to hit it top of off stump and if I could get some movement from there, it would be good enough. I got some movement from there and that's where I got my 3 wickets. I tried to bowl into the wicket and I got the first ball to hit the top of off stump, and second ball, scrambled one, going a little bit away and did enough to get the edge. The third one was also a scrambled one and it did very much enough to take the inside edge, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

SRK, AbRam meet Lionel Messi in Kolkata; Messi exits stadium due to poor management, angry fans throw bottles and chairs at Stadium

Angry fans have resorted to vandalising banners and seats after Lionel Messi was forced to stop his lap of honour due to overcrowding around him. Fans couldn't get a glimpse of Messi. Earlier today, Messi met SRK and his son AbRam and also posed for pictures.

Mandhana Congratulates Harmanpreet After PCA Unveil Stand In Her Honour

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Indias vice captain Smriti Mandhana congratulated her teammate and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur after the Punjab Cricket Association (PCA) unveiled a stand in her honour at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Two new stands were inaugurated at the venue on Thursday, with the other one being named after former India all-rounder Yuvraj Singh. The inauguration ceremony was led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and PCA President Amarjit Mehta, with Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) President Mithun Manhas and Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria also in attendance. BCCI posted a video of the same on their social media handles, and sharing the same on her Instagram story, Mandhana wrote, Congratulations @imharmanpreet_kaur!! What a day for women's cricket and so so proud of you! In the video, Harmanpreet said, After winning the World Cup, a lot of things have changed in my life. But I think this is a special moment for me. The soil on which I started playingtoday I will finally have a stand on my name. So I think it's a very proud moment for me and I really want to thank the Punjab Cricket Association for that. All the hard work, all the struggle, has paid off today. So I think it is a very emotional moment for me. But also, whoever is going to watch this video, whoever is listening, I think it is going to be very motivational for all of them. Last month, Harmanpreet made history by leading the Indian team to their first senior ICC womens cricket trophy as the Women in Blue beat South Africa by 52 runs at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai to lift the coveted silverware. In the video, Harmanpreet said, After winning the World Cup, a lot of things have changed in my life. But I think this is a special moment for me. The soil on which I started playingtoday I will finally have a stand on my name. So I think it's a very proud moment for me and I really want to thank the Punjab Cricket Association for that. All the hard work, all the struggle, has paid off today. So I think it is a very emotional moment for me. But also, whoever is going to watch this video, whoever is listening, I think it is going to be very motivational for all of them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In the presence of Mann and other PCA office bearers, cash rewards of Rs 11 lakh for Harmanpreet, Amanjot Kaur and Harleen Deol were also handed out, while the fielding coach of the World Cup-winning team, Munish Bali, received a reward of Rs 5 lakh. Article Source: IANS

Future Looks Bright For very, Very Talented India U19 Mens Ahead Of Next Years World Cup

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: With a commanding 234-run victory over UAE in their opening game of the Mens U19 Asia Cup, India have set the tone for their final build-up to next years World Cup in Zimbabwe and Namibia. The last time India played in the U19 Mens World Cup, they finished runners-up to Australia in 2024. This time, the Ayush Mhatre-led side will be keen to go one step further and get the side an unprecedented sixth title. Former India opener Wasim Jaffer, who recently worked with the current players in the India A team in the U19 Challenger Trophy and the India B side during the tri-series involving Afghanistan, has backed the team to overcome all challenges and emerge successful in their quest to glory. Obviously, they are very, very talented. There is no doubt about it. Then with Ayush Mhatre and Vaibhav Suryavanshi coming back because they were not there in the challengers and triangular series, it makes for a good look. I worked with quite a few boys like Vihaan Malhotra and they are very, very talented and have got a lot of potential. It's just about delivering and what BCCI, VVS Laxman and his team has done really well is they have kept them together for a very long time because they have been to England and Australia and played a lot of matches. That gelling now is very good among the players who know themselves very well due to playing together for a long time. So, I feel that they are ready for these challenges ahead, which is this Asia Cup and the World Cup, something which we haven't won for a while now, said Jaffer in an exclusive conversation with IANS. At the same time, Jaffer also noted that the India U19 mens batches after 2020 have failed to produce players who would go on to enter the senior team. At the end of the day, what I have noticed is that after the 2018 batch of Shubman Gill, Arshdeep Singh, Abhishek Sharma, Riyan Parag, and Prithvi Shaw and 2020 batch of Yashasvi Jaiswal, Tilak Varma, Dhruv Jurel and Ravi Bishnoi, there arent any under 19 players who have played for India. So, that transition hasn't happened for the last one or two batches and that is something I feel needs to happen. Somebody like Vaibhav, Ayush Mhatre, Abhigyan Kundu, Vihaan Malhotra, Harvansh Singh - there are a lot of very talented players and we want them to get to the next level. That is probably the biggest challenge now - the under 19 boys coming and performing at the highest level, something that has not happened with regards to the last one or two batches. That is the only concern that I have got as it is very important that the under 19 boys transition themselves to international cricket and to IPL also. I mean, IPL has now become such an important tournament. So, whether they get into their state teams as easily as they should be is also a question mark. But I feel that transition needs to happen. That shows the young talent is coming and challenging the senior players and that is going to be the biggest task, in my opinion, he explained. Jaffer, who won Ranji Trophy multiple times with Mumbai and Vidarbha, is among the few coaches to have worked with both Under-19 and senior teams. Asked about the difference in coaching the two levels, he said, Well, obviously, they are work in progress. So, because this is age group cricket, sometimes I feel they keep on playing with the same kind of players. They come through U14, U16 and U19, so they are literally playing with the same bunch of players and know the opposition as well. So, sometimes that creates a little bit of a comfort zone among the players. But as soon as you step out of under 19, then it's a big leap because there is no age group and you are into the men's world and the challenge lies in that regard. Sometimes the under 19 boys are used to a certain environment. But as soon as you play against the international teams, you kind of challenge yourself. Though India has historical dominance at the U19 level, it hasnt translated into trophies of late. India last won an U19 Asia Cup in 2021, and were runners-up in last years competition to two-time winners Bangladesh. Without a doubt, I feel the Indian team is a lot of steps ahead of the other international teams. We are very talented, and the challenge will be to get the exact kind of result that we need, added Jaffer. What also boosts Indias quest to win the World Cup is Mhatre coming on the back of a good showing for Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league games, though he didnt have a memorable outing at The ICC Academy in Dubai on Friday. Suryavanshi, meanwhile, dazzled with 171 against UAE, and is coming on the back of some blistering knocks for Bihar and India A. Jaffer believes the duos exposure to senior cricket will greatly benefit the India U19 side. It is very important because Vaibhav has played for Bihar and has done well, so as Ayush Mhatre, who has played for Mumbai, played Ranji Trophy and India A games, and has done well. But the only thing is for them to not get complacent. Sometimes when you play at a higher level and then you come down, sometimes you take things a little easy, which I am sure that won't happen because they are playing quite a few matches. What also boosts Indias quest to win the World Cup is Mhatre coming on the back of a good showing for Mumbai in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy league games, though he didnt have a memorable outing at The ICC Academy in Dubai on Friday. Suryavanshi, meanwhile, dazzled with 171 against UAE, and is coming on the back of some blistering knocks for Bihar and India A. Jaffer believes the duos exposure to senior cricket will greatly benefit the India U19 side. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But when you get out of that age group and play with the men, your mentality changes. You are not thinking about the age or anything else, as it's between bat and ball. So that experience, whether it's with Ayush, Vaibhav or some other players who have played Ranji Trophy or Vijay Hazare Trophy, will always help them and make this Indian team stronger, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: Khawaja Declares Himself 100 Pc Fit And Ready For Third Test

The Adelaide Test: Australia opener Usman Khawaja remains confident of playing for his side amid a debate intensifying over his exclusion in the third Test against England at Adelaide Oval. Although Khawaja has stated that he is 100 percent fit and prepared to participate in the third Ashes Test in Adelaide the following week, he remains uncertain about his selection. After Australia won the first two Test with the opening tandem of Travis Head and Jake Weatherald, Khawaja, who will turn 39 on day two of the third Ashes Test, stated he is unfazed by the rumors circulating regarding his playing future. I'm still valued by the team, still asked to be here to play, so I'm here. I'm always mindful of the future, I always have been. I'm not here to hang on, I'm just here to enjoy my cricket. As long as I'm valued I'm here, I'm doing my job. I just like to compete. I can bat so many different ways. I've been successful in all formats, I've got gears when I want to. My sample size will tell you that you've got to find a way to be consistent for a long period of time, not just over a game or two, Khawaja was quoted as saying by Cricket Australia. The 85-Test veteran defended his record while dismissing Head's remarks, which he had been trying to address before seizing his opportunity in Perth, and showed no indication of an imminent retirement. I am the guy who, as much as people sometimes want to have a have a crack at me, I love playing for Australia, I'm still very committed. I train hard, I do everything right. So for me, it's irrelevant (what others say). For me, it's more about just being a professional. People can have opinions that's absolutely no worries to me. I can't sit down and worry about what other people think, especially outside of the squad, Khawaja insisted. In Perth, Khawaja suffered back spasms that prevented him from opening in the first innings due to time spent off the field. His condition worsened when he took the field for Australia's second bowling innings, ultimately ending his time at the Gabba Test. Selectors are unsure whether to stick with the new strategy or revert to their pre-series approach following Head's all-time best century in the second innings at Perth and their lightning-fast partnership approach in Brisbane, where the pair built partnerships of 77 off 79 and 37 off 35. I've got to be totally honest, it doesn't really faze me. The older I've got, the more comfortable I've got with things that I can control and things that I can't. And I feel really good in terms of I'm ready to go. The rest of it is not in my control. So we'll see what happens, Khawaja said of the speculation. I'm probably a bit more structured in how I'm trying to get ready for this next game. I won't do too much today I just came straight off the flight. I'll walk, loosen up and stretch, then work my way up tomorrow. I've never enjoyed doing stuff the day of flights anyway, but I'm probably bit more cautionary about it now. I've got to be totally honest, it doesn't really faze me. The older I've got, the more comfortable I've got with things that I can control and things that I can't. And I feel really good in terms of I'm ready to go. The rest of it is not in my control. So we'll see what happens, Khawaja said of the speculation. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Adelaide Test will kick off on Wednesday with hosts Australia leading the series 2-0. Article Source: IANS

Khawaja '100%' fit for Adelaide, now the selectors must decide

The opener backed himself to have different batting gears if needed and the versatility to move to the middle order

Kohli, RCB set for Chinnaswamy return

Kohli likely to be in action for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy at the Chinnaswamy, with the venue also on track for IPL 2026

Warner Urges Konstas To Stay Grounded Amid Rising Spotlight Ahead Of BBL 15

Big Bash League: Former Australia opener David Warner has urged rising star Sam Konstas to stay grounded as he navigates the growing attention following an impressive run of form. The two will turn out for the Sydney Thunder in the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) season, which begins on December 14. Warner expressed confidence that Konstas, who has recently found himself under the spotlight, will be well supported by senior players in the Thunder setup. He believes that a strong support system is vital for young cricketers dealing with heightened expectations. The best form of currency is runs, and he's (Konstas) doing that at the moment. When you do get thrown in the limelight, it can be a deer in the headlights. You can get overwhelmed and sucked into the hype around everything. But he has great support around him that will keep him level-headed, Warner said, as quoted by ESPNcricinfo. The experienced left-hander also revealed that the Sydney Thunder are exploring tactical adjustments to their batting order, including the possibility of Warner batting in the middle order to accommodate a left-handed option further down. Thats more for a match-up and strategic point of view. We dont have that left-hander in the middle that weve been looking for. Its a conversation were having, he explained. Despite the experimentation, Warner stressed the importance of allowing Konstas to express himself freely and continue playing his natural game. Drawing from his own experiences, Warner highlighted the need to shield young players from external pressures while ensuring they continue to enjoy the sport. You just have to allow him to keep playing his natural game. He had his taste of Test cricket last year, he probably got a lot of advice, as you do as a youngster. But as a youngster, you have to try to take on board what you think is required for you. You have to stick true to what you believe in and how you go about your game. He might have changed things. For us, it's about protecting him and making sure he's enjoying the game, he added. Despite the experimentation, Warner stressed the importance of allowing Konstas to express himself freely and continue playing his natural game. Drawing from his own experiences, Warner highlighted the need to shield young players from external pressures while ensuring they continue to enjoy the sport. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The upcoming 202526 season will be Warners fourth with the Sydney Thunder. He had a standout campaign last season, scoring 405 runs from 12 matches at a strike rate of 141.6. Article Source: IANS

Melbourne Renegades Sign Andrew Tye Ahead Of BBL 15

Renegades General Manager James Rosengarten: Melbourne Renegades on Saturday announced the signing of experienced campaigner Andrew Tye to bolster their bowling attack ahead of the season's opener. On the eve of the Renegades' season-opening match against the Brisbane Heat on Monday night at GMHBA Stadium, Tye joins the team to replace bowler Tom Rogers, who has been ruled out. Possessing one of Big Bash's most outstanding records, Tye has played 105 BBL matches and taken over 150 wickets, making him one of the league's leading death-over specialists. Im genuinely excited about this move its a great bunch of fellas with serious talent and Im looking forward to cracking in, Tye said. The Renegades play a great brand of cricket and the direction the club is heading under Whitey (Cameron White) really appeals to me. The chats Ive had with the coaching staff were clear they know how they want to play and where I fit. Ive always prided myself on competing and taking ownership of big moments, and Im looking forward to contributing to this group. Tye will reunite with familiar faces at the Renegades, including former Perth Scorchers teammate Jason Behrendorff, who joined the club earlier this year. The Renegades also parted ways with veteran quick Kane Richardson during the off-season, with the 34-year-old finding a new home with Sydney Sixers. Renegades General Manager James Rosengarten stated that the signing was a strategic move ahead of the new campaign. The Renegades also parted ways with veteran quick Kane Richardson during the off-season, with the 34-year-old finding a new home with Sydney Sixers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We see him as someone who will play an important role for us throughout the season. Article Source: IANS

India Need A Solid Foundation To Chase Big Score: Robin Uthappa

Follow The Blues: Former India batter Robin Uthappa provided a detailed assessment of the recently concluded second T20I at Mullanpur, praising South Africas all-round excellence whilst questioning Indias lack of clarity in batting roles during a big chase. Indias experiment with batting flexibility came under scrutiny after they fell short in a challenging run chase against the Proteas, allowing the visitors to level the five-match series 1-1. Reflecting on South Africas response after losing the opening game on JioHotstars Follow The Blues, Uthappa underlined how effectively they dominated all three departments, saying, South Africa batted and bowled exceptionally well to bounce back after the first game. With the new ball they were outstanding on that surface, Lungi Ngidis delivery to Shubman Gill was an absolute peach, and the ball to Abhishek Sharma cramped him for room on a testing backofalength. They consistently hit the right areas and kept India under pressure. With the bat, they made a clear statement by attacking Indias best bowlers, including Jasprit Bumrah and Arshdeep Singh, right from the start. Quinton de Kock was phenomenal, built strong partnerships with Aiden Markram, ran superbly with Dewald Brevis, and kept the tempo high by hitting in his preferred zones. Donovan Ferreira and David Miller then finished things off in style. It was a complete performance from South Africa, and on a rare off day for Bumrah and Arshdeep, they out-batted, out-bowled, and out-fielded India, he added. Indias chase lost momentum after the early wickets, but Uthappa believes the bigger issue was in how the innings was constructed once Shubman Gill was dismissed, especially with a deep batting line-up at Indias disposal. You can lose early wickets, but for me the real issue was the batting strategy once Shubman Gill got out. If Axar Patel is walking in at that stage with such a deep batting line-up, he has to play as a pinch-hitter someone youre willing to risk early in return for quick runs and taking pressure off Abhishek Sharma. Instead, his 21 off 21 didnt really serve that purpose, and as wickets fell around him, he was forced to change his approach and slow down, which hurt the chase, he said. The former opener emphasised the importance of clearly defined roles for batters playing an international game, especially when chasing a big target. You can lose early wickets, but for me the real issue was the batting strategy once Shubman Gill got out. If Axar Patel is walking in at that stage with such a deep batting line-up, he has to play as a pinch-hitter someone youre willing to risk early in return for quick runs and taking pressure off Abhishek Sharma. Instead, his 21 off 21 didnt really serve that purpose, and as wickets fell around him, he was forced to change his approach and slow down, which hurt the chase, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Uthappa concluded by warning against excessive tactical fluidity too early in an innings, suggesting it can complicate decision-making and scoring patterns, as he stated, Asking players to prepare for multiple roles in the same game makes run-scoring more complicated, and thats where India are missing a trick. I dont agree with being overly flexible so early in the innings beyond the openers. Article Source: IANS

I'm Still Determined To Play Three Formats As Best I Can, Says Hazlewood

T20 World Cup: Australia pacer Josh Hazlewood has no intention to back off from any format of cricket and will continue to play all forms despite missing the ongoing Ashes due to injury. Hazlewood, who sustained a hamstring strain while bowling in the Sheffield Shield last month and then suffered a setback when he hurt his Achilles last week, would not feature against England this summer. Hazlewood stated that he was committed to continuing to represent his nation with both red ball and white, even though he was unable to participate in the series. Yeah absolutely, he told Sydney's Daily Telegraph. My body still feels as strong as ever. It's just little things here and there that creep in. I'm still determined to play three formats as best I can. You're still going to miss the odd game here and there, no one can do it all, unless you're a batter, but I still enjoy all the different demands of the three formats. It keeps it fresh getting ready and preparing for each different format. Hazlewood will instead focus on recovering in time for the ICC Men's T20 World Cup that commences on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka. Once you're injured mid-series or just before a series starts, you're chasing your tail a lot of the time anyway, he added. I probably could have got back for one or two tests with the hamstring, but then you leave yourself quite vulnerable going into a test match on the back of not much. Once you're injured mid-series or just before a series starts, you're chasing your tail a lot of the time anyway, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Obviously things are easier when you're up and going and you've got some good work under you. Article Source: IANS

Warner open to taking on middle-order role for Thunder

Asked about an opening partnership with Sam Konstas, Warner revealed tactical discussions are taking place

'Nothing ruled in or out': Winds of change blowing through BBL

The new BBL season comes amid extensive talks about the future of the competition and what potential privatisation could look like

Shadab Targets World Cup With A Good Bigbash Stint, Rues Ashwin Miss: Report

Twenty20 World Cup: Spin all-rounder Shadab Khan hopes a good season with the Sydney Thunder will help him regain his place in the Pakistan squad for the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup 2026, ruing a missed chance to play alongside Indian great Ravichandran Ashwin, says a report on Friday. The 27-year-old leg-spinner has not played for Pakistan since a home T20I series against Bangladesh in June this year, as he had to undergo shoulder surgery before a long rehab. He will play his fourth season in the Australian T20 league, having previously played for Sydney Sixers, Hobart Hurricanes, and Brisbane Heat, the report added. It's a great opportunity, and I'm pleased that major Pakistani names are playing in the BBL this time, Shadab told Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net). The league is getting recognition because of them as well, he said during a virtual media talk from Sydney. But Shadab rued a missed chance to learn from Aswin, who was due to play for Sydney Thunder before pulling out on fitness grounds. It could have been great to have played alongside Ashiwn because he has been a great bowler, said Shadab, who has played against the Indian maestro on numerous occasions. Shadab said he was pleased to see six other Pakistan players featuring in the latest Bigbash season. Former captain Babar Azam will line up for Sydney Sixers, Shaheen Shah Afridi for Brisbane Heat, Haris Rauf for Melbourne Stars, Mohammad Rizwan and Hassan Khan for Melbourne Renegades, and Hasan Ali for Adelaide Strikers. Pakistani cricketers have played in Australia before, but never in such numbers and never all at once, Shadab, excited at the unique opportunity to play against some of his team-mates, told www.telecomasia.net. Back home, we've played against each other, but this is the first time we'll be doing it abroad. We're all looking forward to it. Playing against friends has a different feeling, Shadab said. Our fans are excited as well; theyre waiting for the BBL to start. We played the T20 World Cup here in 2022 and received great support. With big Pakistani names in action in the BBL, well get a lot of support again. The BBL is very important for me. I'll be back in action after five months. It's a great opportunity for me, and I want to make the most of it, Shadab said. Injuries are part of the game its not as if only I get injured, but it is very disappointing to miss cricket. Our fans are excited as well; theyre waiting for the BBL to start. We played the T20 World Cup here in 2022 and received great support. With big Pakistani names in action in the BBL, well get a lot of support again. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The tenth edition of the Twenty20 World Cup will be held from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka. Article Source: IANS

Rahul Gandhi To Attend Messis GOAT India Tour Event In Hyderabad

Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi will attend football legend Lionel Messis GOAT India tour event at Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium in Hyderabad on December 13. LoP Rahul Gandhi will witness a friendly match between the teams led by Messi and Telangana Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy. The Chief Minister, during his visit to Delhi on Thursday, had invited Rahul Gandhi and Priyanka Gandhi to attend the event. Meanwhile, tight security arrangements are being made for an hour-long event on Saturday night. Thousands of fans are eagerly waiting for the event to see Messis magic live on the field. Authorities have made elaborate arrangements for the smooth conduct of the event, which is expected to see a participation of 39,000 spectators. Police have announced a series of measures for crowd management. Rachakonda Police Commissioner Sudheer Babu has announced that only ticket holders would be allowed into the stadium. A total of 2,500 police personnel will be deployed as part of the security arrangements for the event. Police have imposed traffic curbs on the roads surrounding the stadium located in the busy Uppal area. Messi is scheduled to arrive at Rajiv Gandhi International Airport at 4 p.m. He will drive to the Taj Falaknuma Hotel to attend a programme before leaving for the stadium. After the event, he will return to the hotel for the night's halt. CM Revanth Reddy, who will be leading RR9 against Messi10, has been practising hard with football players at different grounds in the city for the last few days. The match is to be played as part of Messis GOAT Tour 2025. The Chief Minister will wear Jersey number 9, and Messi his famous jersey number 10. Deputy Chief Minister Mallu Bhatti Vikramarka said thousands of football fans were expected to come to see the match. He urged them to arrive early and settle into their seats to ensure both security and convenience. Special routes have been designated for the arrival and departure of Messi, LoP Rahul Gandhi, Chief Minister Revanth Reddy, ministers, and other VIPs. Vikramarka stated that the match is being organised as part of Telangana Rising celebrations. According to him, Messi showed personal interest in being part of the celebrations. IT Minister Sridhar Babu said Messi would be here for a social cause and not just a friendly match. He said they were focusing on ensuring seamless coordination, public safety and a vibrant sporting atmosphere that reflects Telanganas growing enthusiasm for major sporting events. IT Minister Sridhar Babu said Messi would be here for a social cause and not just a friendly match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Chief Minister is trying to rope in the football legend to project the states dynamism to the world through sports, tourism, investment promotion and youth outreach. Article Source: IANS

Assam Cricket Association Suspends Four Players For Corrupt Practice, Illegal Approach To SMAT 2025 Players

The Assam Cricket Association: The Assam Cricket Association (ACA) has suspended four players, who have represented Assam at various stages, with immediate effect after allegations emerged that they were involved in corrupt practices and attempting to influence and instigate some of the current Assam team players. The four playersAmit Sinha, Ishan Ahmed, Aman Tripathi and Abhishek Thakuri are accused of trying to influence players who took part in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 held in Lucknow from November 26 to December 8. Following the emergence of these allegations, the Anti-Corruption and Security Unit (ACSU) of the BCCI conducted an inquiry. The Assam Cricket Association has also initiated criminal proceedings in this matter. Prima facie, there appears to be involvement of the aforementioned four players in serious misconduct, affecting the integrity of the sport, the ACA informed in a release on Friday. The players were suspended to curtail any scope of further deterioration of the situation, the release informed. Accordingly, during the suspension period, the players are barred from taking part in any state-level tournament or match conducted under the Assam Cricket Association, District Units, or affiliated clubs, besides participating in any cricket-related activity, including officiating as match referee, coach, umpire etc. The suspension will continue until the final outcome of the investigation and/or any further decision of the Association, the release said. The Assam Cricket Association also directed all district associations to ensure strict compliance with this order and to inform clubs and cricket academies under their jurisdiction of the necessary action. The suspension will continue until the final outcome of the investigation and/or any further decision of the Association, the release said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Assam Cricket Association has also lodged an FIR at the Crime Branch, Guwahati, against the said four players on Friday (December 12, 2025). Article Source: IANS

ICC, JioStar Quash Exit Rumours; To Continue Four-year Deal

The International Cricket Council: The International Cricket Council (ICC) and JioStar have reaffirmed their long-term partnership and refuted any rumours that the media partner is considering ending the four-year deal. The International Cricket Council (ICC) and JioStar have noted recent media reports concerning the status of the ICCs media rights agreement in India. These reports do not reflect the position of either organisation. The existing agreement between the ICC and JioStar remains fully in force, and JioStar continues as the ICCs official media rights partner in India. Any suggestion that JioStar has withdrawn from the agreement is incorrect, the joint statement from ICC and JioStar read. It further stated, JioStar is fully committed to honour its contractual obligations in letter and spirit. Both organisations remain focused on delivering uninterrupted, world-class coverage of upcoming ICC events to fans across India, including the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, one of the sports most anticipated global tournaments. Advertisers and industry partners will not be impacted, according to the ICC and JioStar, since both parties are taking the necessary action. It further stated, JioStar is fully committed to honour its contractual obligations in letter and spirit. Both organisations remain focused on delivering uninterrupted, world-class coverage of upcoming ICC events to fans across India, including the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, one of the sports most anticipated global tournaments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score JioStar paid USD 3 billion to acquire the ICC's media rights agreement from 2024 to 2027, guaranteeing the hosting of one major men's international event annually. Article Source: IANS

Ireland All-rounder Sophie MacMahon Retires From International Cricket

The Leinster CC: Ireland all-rounder Sophie MacMahon on Friday announced her retirement from international cricket after making 45 appearances for the national team. After making her debut against England Women in a one-day fixture in Abu Dhabi in 2017, MacMahon, 28, went on to make 45 appearances for Ireland Women. The Leinster CC all-rounder, who is renowned for being a hard-hitting batter and medium-paced bowler who regularly gave a nagging length, had her highest score of 42 for Ireland in a One-Day International in Dublin in 2022 against a full-strength South African bowling attack. It is a tough decision to decide to retire but I feel like the time is right for me. I have given so much of my life to cricket and representing my country in the sport I love will be something Ill always treasure. My dream as a child was to be a professional cricketer and I never believed that dream would come true, so I feel very fortunate, Sophie MacMahon said in a statement. Im extremely thankful to all the staff and coaches at Cricket Ireland for their support over the years, especially the support staff I worked with in the womens programme. I would also like to thank my family for their support and encouragement throughout my cricket journey. Im so grateful for the opportunities Ive had while playing for Ireland, in particular the places Ive got to visit and the people Ive met. The best part about my journey has been my teammates along the way and I will miss being part of such an incredible squad but I know Ive made friends for life. With a best of 2-13 against Thailand in the Netherlands, she also took 21 wickets in all formats. MacMahon last played for Ireland against Zimbabwe in July 2025, with a figure of 2-21. She was one of seven players who were awarded the first-ever full-time playing contracts for Ireland Women in 2019. Sophie has been a crucial part of our squad for the last eight years. Shes been with this group through a major transitional period and has played a big role in shaping the team we are today, said Gaby Lewis, captain of Ireland Women. With a best of 2-13 against Thailand in the Netherlands, she also took 21 wickets in all formats. MacMahon last played for Ireland against Zimbabwe in July 2025, with a figure of 2-21. She was one of seven players who were awarded the first-ever full-time playing contracts for Ireland Women in 2019. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sophie will continue to play club cricket for Leinster Cricket Club, but she will no longer play domestic representative cricket in the Evoke Super Series. Article Source: IANS

Minhas, Hussain tons set up Pakistan U-19s' massive win over Malaysia

Malaysia's chase never took flight, as they were bowled out for 48 inside 20 overs

SMAT: Haryana Defeats Rajasthan, Kushagra Helps Jharkhand Chase Down 236 Against Punjab

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Haryana opened their Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League campaign with a commanding sevenwicket win over Rajasthan, while Kumar Kushagra slammed an unbeaten 86 to help Jharkhand chase down a massive 236 against a formidable Punjab. At the MCA Stadium, fast bowlers Anshul Kamboj and Ishant Bhardwaj set the tone by sharing four wickets between themselves to restrict Rajasthan to 132/8. In reply, captain Ankit Kumars fluent 41ball 60 sealed the chase with 22 balls to spare. After electing to field first, Haryana made immediate inroads as Rajasthan lost four wickets inside the PowerPlay. Kunal Singh Rathore fell cheaply, while Deepak Hooda was run out without scoring in bizarre fashion. Shubham Garhwals 33 and Mahipal Lomrors unbeaten 37 offered resistance, while Rahul Chahar chipped in with 20 runs down the order. But the innings never recovered from the early collapse. Kamboj and Bhardwaj finished with identical figures of 2-24. Chasing 133, Haryanas top order ensured there were no early setbacks. Ankit forged stands of 37, 52 and 40 with Aarsh Ranga, Yashvardhan Dalal and Himanshu Rana to keep the scoreboard moving. His knock, laced with eight fours and a six, was his third fifty of the tournament as Haryana cruised home in a modest chase. Meanwhile, at the DY Patil Academy in Ambi, Jharkhand scripted history by overhauling Punjabs 235/6 and set a new record for the highestever chase in the history of the competition. Kushagras unbeaten 86 came off 42 balls, as Jharkhand romped home with six wickets in hand and 11 balls to spare. Punjabs innings was built around a blistering knock from wicketkeeperbatter Salil Arora, who smashed 125 off just 45 deliveries, including reaching his hundred in 39 balls. After his fireworks, Jharkhands response was equally emphatic. Skipper Ishan Kishan struck 47 off 23 balls to set the tone for the successful chase, before Kushagra stitched crucial partnerships with him, Anukul Roy and Pankaj Kumar to secure Jharkhands eighth consecutive win in the tournament. Punjabs innings was built around a blistering knock from wicketkeeperbatter Salil Arora, who smashed 125 off just 45 deliveries, including reaching his hundred in 39 balls. After his fireworks, Jharkhands response was equally emphatic. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Punjab 235/6 in 20 overs (Salil Arora 125 not out, Naman Dhir 27; Sushant Mishra 2-47, Bal Krishna 2-66) lost to Jharkhand 237/4 in 18.1 overs (Kumar Kushagra 86, Ishan Kishan 47; Ramandeep Singh 1-37, Sanvir Singh 1-40) by six wickets Article Source: IANS

James Anderson Appointed Lancashire Captain For 2026 County Season

James Anderson: Lancashire Cricket on Friday appointed former England cricketer James Anderson as full-time County Championship captain ahead of the 2026 season. After agreeing to a new one-year deal with the Red Rose in November, Andersonwho held the position temporarily during the 2025 seasonwill now assume the red-ball leadership permanently. The 43-year-old, England's all-time top wicket taker, retired from international cricket last year after making his Lancashire debut in 2002 and playing for the Red Rose throughout his domestic career. Captaining Lancashire for the first time last season was a huge privilege, and Im honoured to take on the role full-time heading into the new season. Weve got a fantastic group of players, a great blend of youth and experience, and Im excited about what we can achieve together with promotion back to Division One our number one priority. Im grateful for the support from Crofty and from my teammates, and Im looking forward to leading the side into the new County Championship season in April, James Anderson said in a statement. Anderson passed 300 career appearances in first-class cricket last summer and will head into the 2026 campaign looking to add to his tally of 1,143 wickets in the format. Josh Bohannon, who was appointed vice captain in 2024, will remain in that position. Additionally, Keaton Jennings will continue to captain the Vitality Blast. Mens head coach Steven Croft added, Jimmy is an outstanding leader whose influence on the squad is immense. His experience in cricket is second to none, and the way he stepped into the captaincy during the second half of last season showed exactly why hes the right person for the job. Josh Bohannon, who was appointed vice captain in 2024, will remain in that position. Additionally, Keaton Jennings will continue to captain the Vitality Blast. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With Jimmy as captain and Josh continuing as vice-captain, we have a strong, stable leadership team that will drive our ambitions in the County Championship next season. Article Source: IANS

Hampshire announce signings of Michael Neser and Jake Lehmann

Australia allrounder Neser joins for County Championship stint, while Lehmann agrees two-year deal as local player

James Anderson named as Lancashire's Championship captain

Former England seamer extends commitment to long-term club as he takes over four-day reins

Neser And Lehmann To Join Hampshire For Next Years County Championship

In Michael Neser: Australia duo Michael Neser and Jake Lehmann will join Hampshire for the 2026 County Championship season. Neser, fresh from taking a five-wicket haul in the recent Ashes win in Brisbane, is set to feature in the first six Championship matches before the T20 Blast. Neser, 35, took 13 wickets for Hampshire in 2024 across eight matches in the county championship and T20 blast. In Michael Neser and Jake Lehmann, we have two players who have the ability to make a significant impact. Michael brings valuable runs alongside his quality with the ball - he will partner Kyle Abbott as one of our overseas players, said Giles White, Director of Cricket at Hampshire, in a statement. Meanwhile, Lehmann, the son of former Australia player and current Northamptonshire head coach Darren Lehmann, has signed a twoyear allformat deal with the club. He has scored 5,684 runs in 97 first-class cricket games for South Australia with 16 centuries against his name. In the ongoing Sheffield Shield, Lehmann is South Australias leading run scorer and has the third-most runs of anyone in the competition with 426 runs. He has also scored two centuries and one fifty (96 v Western Australia) in his ten innings so far. Jake is in outstanding form and is the leading run scorer in Shield cricket over the past 18 months. With a British passport, he is eligible to play as a locally qualified player, allowing flex in strengthening the squad. Both players possess a great attitude and bring quality and experience; its a great boost as we look to finalise our plans ahead of 2026, added White. In the ongoing Sheffield Shield, Lehmann is South Australias leading run scorer and has the third-most runs of anyone in the competition with 426 runs. He has also scored two centuries and one fifty (96 v Western Australia) in his ten innings so far. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Im excited to join Hampshire on a two-year deal, its great to return to county cricket. Hampshire has a fantastic history of Australian players and to follow in the footsteps of Shane Warne, Matthew Hayden and the like is really special. I look forward to joining up with the team at Utilita Bowl and hopefully contributing to the trophy cabinet, added Lehmann. Article Source: IANS

Bahrain Pacer Ali Dawood Claims Second-best Figures In Men's T20I History

T20 World Cup Asia: Bahrain pacer Ali Dawood etched his name into the record books by picking 7-19, the secondbest figures in mens T20I history, against Bhutan. The 33yearold seamer became only the second bowler after Malaysias Syazrul Idrus to take seven wickets in a T20I. His efforts dismantled Bhutans chase in Gelephu and sealed a 35run win for Bahrain in the third match of their fivegame series. Introduced in the third over, Dawood struck twice to leave the hosts tottering at 11/3, before returning late to rip through the lower order. Dawood, who was born in Sialkot in Pakistan, claimed three wickets in the 16th over and two more in his next over to finish with 7-19. Despite having a 67run fourthwicket stand, Bhutan were bowled out for 125, handing Bahrain, who made 160/4, a 21 lead in the fivematch series. Dawood now sits behind seamer Idrus, who picked an incredible 7-8 against China during an ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia B Qualifier match at Bayuemas Oval in 2023. Incidentally, all of his seven wickets were bowled dismissals. Singapores Harsha Bharadwaj (6-3 against Mongolia in 2024), Nigerias Peter Aho (6-5 against Sierra Leone in 2021) and Indias Deepak Chahar (6-7 against Bangladesh in 2019) complete the top five performances in mens T20I format. Dawood now sits behind seamer Idrus, who picked an incredible 7-8 against China during an ICC Men's T20 World Cup Asia B Qualifier match at Bayuemas Oval in 2023. Incidentally, all of his seven wickets were bowled dismissals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score For now, with this spell, Dawood has now 96 wickets from 64 T20Is at an average of 14.10. His economy rate is at a measly 5.96. The one against Bhutan was his maiden fifer in T20Is, in addition to the three four-wicket hauls Dawood has. Article Source: IANS

Vaibhav Suryavanshi slams 95-ball 171 in Under-19 Asia Cup opener

Vaibhav Suryavanshi's innings against UAE saw him fall just six runs short of the India record for highest score in a youth one-day match, held by Ambati Rayudu

Langer, LSG Will Target Australian Players In IPL Auction, Opines Saba Karim

Lucknow Super Giants: Lucknow Super Giants head coach Justin Langer is expected to focus on acquiring Australian talent at the upcoming IPL auction, according to former India selector Saba Karim. LSG will enter the upcoming IPL 2026 auction, to be held in Abu Dhabi on December 16, with a purse of Rs 22.95 crore and have to fill six slots, four of which are for overseas players. I think Justin Langer and LSG will target the Australian players in the auction. They need to be strong at the auction and target players like Cameron Green and Aaron Hardie. Both are handy all-rounders who can bat and bowl. Australians have a winning mentality, which LSG wants. In their bowling attack, they brought in Mohammed Shami. I think their bowling coach, Bharat Arun, believes Shami can still deliver. They needed someone to lead the attack, since the other fast bowlers, like Mayank Yadav and Mohsin Khan, are Indian. Bharat Arun feels Shami can guide these young bowlers, said Karim on JioStar. Before auctions, LSG were fairly active in acquiring pacers Mohammed Shami and Arjun Tendulkar via trades. Langer talked about the happiness in acquiring a veteran fast bowler like Shami, who he feels is one of the happiest persons in the cricketing world. Mohammed Shami is a real competitor and a warrior. There has been a lot of talk about him. As a past coach against him, you knew the team was always in the fight if Shami was playing. The biggest worry for a coach is keeping him fit. I would rather have more fast bowlers than less. When you talk about heartbreaks, there is no better person. He is probably one of the best team players and the best people I have met in cricket. His energy is unbelievable. I expected him to be picked in the next auction because he offers so much. Luckily, we got him in a trade deal, so I am really happy and look forward to working with him. Mohammed Shami is a real competitor and a warrior. There has been a lot of talk about him. As a past coach against him, you knew the team was always in the fight if Shami was playing. The biggest worry for a coach is keeping him fit. I would rather have more fast bowlers than less. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Their Indian players did exceptionally well last season, and they will hope that continues. Fast bowlers are always good to have as backup, so that is one area they could look at. They would have also identified a few talented uncapped Indians to consider. They will want to fill an overseas slot, as they have released three overseas players. They could look for a wicketkeeper-batter to fill Josh Inglis' position, said Kumble. Article Source: IANS

Satterthwaite, Peterson And Tsukigawa Appointed As NZ's Regional Female Pathway Leads

Former New Zealand: Former New Zealand captain Amy Satterthwaite, along with Anna Peterson and Sarah Tsukigawa, has been appointed female pathway lead for Auckland, Canterbury and Otago, respectively, in a move aimed at strengthening regional development structures. The group of pathway managers will be overseen by former New Zealand womens wicketkeeperbatter Sara McGlashan, who has been named lead for the nationwide programme. From strengthening relationships with clubs and schools to driving high-quality training environments, theyre helping create thriving pathways for young cricketers. Environments where players feel supported, inspired, and confident to push their potential is pivotal to their development. Having three former players step into pathway manager roles is enormously valuable. Their experience allows them to connect with players in a way that truly accelerates development and inspires the next generation on where their journey in cricket can take them, said Sara in a statement by NZC on Friday. Amy, the former New Zealand captain, is the most experienced of the newly appointed pathway leads, having played 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is before retiring from international cricket in 2022. She then joined WBBL side Adelaide Strikers as assistant coach. Anna, meanwhile, featured in 65 international white-ball games for New Zealand from 2012 to 2020 and has returned to cricket after recently leading the Women and Girls Strategy at Auckland Rugby Union as the Game Development Officer. Amy, the former New Zealand captain, is the most experienced of the newly appointed pathway leads, having played 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is before retiring from international cricket in 2022. She then joined WBBL side Adelaide Strikers as assistant coach. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Apart from this, Luke Pomfret has joined the Northern Districts pathway team, adding experience from his stints with English counties Middlesex and Northamptonshire. He will work alongside Jamie Watkins, who continues to head the Central Districts programme. Article Source: IANS

Keshav Maharaj Named Pretoria Capitals Captain Ahead Of SA20 Season 4

Durban Super Giants: South Africas left-arm spinner Keshav Maharaj has been named as captain of Pretoria Capitals for the upcoming SA20 season four, the franchise said on Friday. Maharaj, who led Durban Super Giants in the previous edition of the competition, will take over from Rilee Rossouw at the Capitals. One of South Africas most experienced and respected leaders, Maharaj brings a wealth of international pedigree across formats, along with a proven track record of guiding teams with composure, clarity and intent. Having captained South Africa in white-ball cricket and served as a senior figure within the national setup for several years, Maharajs leadership experience, tactical understanding and consistency make him an invaluable addition in this role. His presence strengthens the balance and direction of the Pretoria Capitals squad as the team heads into the new season, said the franchise in a release. Pretoria Capitals will enter the upcoming SA20 season with a new look coaching staff as well former India captain Sourav Ganguly will be taking charge as the head coach and will be assisted by former South Africa captain Shaun Pollock. The Capitals were the most active franchise at the September auction, armed with the biggest purse of 32.5 million rand and 16 slots to fill. They broke the SA20 pay record by splurging 16.5 million rand on big-hitting batter Dewald Brevis and also secured Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, Craig Overton, Saqib Mahmood and Codi Yusuf. Andre Russell, who recently quit IPL as a player and has now transitioned as a power coach for Kolkata Knight Riders, was added as a wild card signing, while Will Jacks and Sherfane Rutherford were retained ahead of the auction. The Capitals were the most active franchise at the September auction, armed with the biggest purse of 32.5 million rand and 16 slots to fill. They broke the SA20 pay record by splurging 16.5 million rand on big-hitting batter Dewald Brevis and also secured Maharaj, Lungi Ngidi, Lizaad Williams, Craig Overton, Saqib Mahmood and Codi Yusuf. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The new SA20 season begins on December 26 with MI Cape Town facing Durbans Super Giants. Capitals will open their campaign on the following day against Joburg Super Kings, with the final scheduled to be played on January 25, 2026. Article Source: IANS

Keshav Maharaj to lead Pretoria Capitals at SA20

Pretoria Capitals have a revamped squad and support staff for the upcoming SA20 season

SMAT: Nitish Reddys Hattrick In Vain As Andhra Lose To MP By 4 Wickets

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super: Seam bowling all-rounder Nitish Kumar Reddys hattrick gave Andhra a glimmer of hope, but Madhya Pradesh recovered from 14/3 to chase down 113 and win by four wickets in their first game of the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy Super League stage at the DY Patil Academy on Friday. Reddy, who joined the Andhra team after being in Indias squads for Tests and ODIs against South Africa, struck in the third over to dismiss Harsh Gawli, Harpreet Bhatia and Rajat Patidar in quick succession. Soon after Venkatesh Iyers dismissal left MP wobbling at 37/4. But a composed 73run stand for the fifth wicket between Rishabh Chouhan and Rahul Batham steadied the chase. Chouhan made 47 off 43 balls with six fours, while Batham remained unbeaten on 35 off 32 deliveries to see MP home with 15 balls to spare and pick up four crucial points. Previously, Reddy had added 50 runs for the third wicket with wicketkeeper-batter KS Bharat after Andhra slipped to 7/2. Bharat topscored with 39 before being dismissed by Iyer, triggering a collapse that saw Andhra lose eight wickets for 55 runs and be bowled out for 112 in 19.1 overs. But a composed 73run stand for the fifth wicket between Rishabh Chouhan and Rahul Batham steadied the chase. Chouhan made 47 off 43 balls with six fours, while Batham remained unbeaten on 35 off 32 deliveries to see MP home with 15 balls to spare and pick up four crucial points. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Andhra 112 all out in 19.1 overs (KS Bharat 39, Nitish Kumar Reddy 25; Shivam Shukla 4-23, Tripuresh Singh 3-31) lost to Madhya Pradesh 113/6 in 17.3 overs (Rishabh Chouhan 47, Rahul Batham 35 not out; Nitish Kumar Reddy 3-17, KV Sasikanth 1-12) by four wickets Article Source: IANS

'La Pulga' Fever Grips Delhi Ahead Of Messi-merising December 15

Prime Minister Narendra Modi: Delhi is in the grip of full-blown football frenzy as Lionel Messi 'La Pulga' the little magician with the giant footprint prepares to land in the national capital on December 15. What began as buzz has escalated into electricity, with fans counting down the moments until the Argentine legend walks into the Arun Jaitley Stadium. One thing is certain: Delhi isnt just welcoming a star; its getting ready to be utterly 'Messi-merised'. Across the city, football has spilled onto the streets. Argentina jerseys dominate marketplaces, graffiti artists are splashing Messi tributes across walls, and neighbourhood gullies echo with kids trying to bend the ball like La Pulga. For us, this is bigger than a festival, said a fan from Karol Bagh who has been collecting Messi posters since he was 6. Messi coming to Delhi feels unreal. I havent slept properly for a week. Fan clubs are gearing up with early-morning queues, drum-led chants, and massive tifos set to unfurl the instant Messi steps onto the turf. A college student from South Campus, summed up the excitement: Ive watched Messi my whole life on TV. To see him walk out in front of me thats a childhood dream finally taking shape. Inside the stadium, preparations mirror the hype. Security teams and volunteers are bracing for a massive early surge, with stands expected to fill long before the programme begins. But the frenzy goes deeper than a single visit. Messis arrival underscores just how sharply footballs pulse has quickened in India. In a country where cricket has long dominated, the sheer scale of Messis draw shows how firmly the beautiful game has taken root in the dreams of young players. Messi is the reason I picked up a football, said a 14-year-old fan, practising step-overs outside his school in Dwarka. If I get to see him once, even from far away, thats enough motivation for the next 10 years. Come December 15, when Messi steps out and the roar rises to the sky, Delhi wont just witness a global icon; it will watch an entire city lose itself, happily and wholeheartedly, to La Pulga fever. Messi is the reason I picked up a football, said a 14-year-old fan, practising step-overs outside his school in Dwarka. If I get to see him once, even from far away, thats enough motivation for the next 10 years. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As part of the tour, the Argentine forward will visit Kolkata, Hyderabad, Mumbai, and New Delhi. The tour will conclude in the capital, where Messi is also expected to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Article Source: IANS

Head At No. 5 'a Worse Result For England': Warner Backs Khawaja To Open In Adelaide

New Delhi: Former Australia batter David Warner has backed his ex-opening partner Usman Khawaja to return to the top of the order for the third Ashes Test in Adelaide, suggesting that sliding Travis Head at No. 5 can pose more threat for England. In the series opener in Perth, Khawaja was unable to open in Australias first innings after spending extended time off the field with a back complaint during Englands batting. Marnus Labuschagne stepped in initially, but on day two Travis Head capitalised on the opportunity, producing a match-winning Ashes century for the ages. But Khawaja is fit again and has been named in the 15-man squad for the Adelaide Test. His most probable return would see him slot back into the opening role, pushing Travis Head down to No. 5, although head coach Andrew McDonald stressed that the openers spot isnt his only option. However, David Warner backed Khawaja to slot straight back into the side in his usual spot, despite concerns over his form, as he has gone 11 Test innings without a fifty. Of course (he deserves that spot). Everyone gets injured. I think Uzzy comes back in, slides to the top, and Trav goes down. Thats probably a worse result for England Travis Head going back down the order, Warner told reporters ahead of the Sydney Thunders BBL match against the Hobart Hurricanes. Travis put his hand up to bat in the situation he was in. He came out and batted the way Travis Head does. Youve seen plenty of interviews from Trav saying thats Uzzies spot and that when the time comes for them to ask him to go up the order, he more than likely wouldnt want to do that. In about 2022/23, we were looking at Travis Head to potentially open the batting, but at that point in time, we didnt have that aggressor in the middle order. Australia has that now, and looking forward, whenever Uzzie decides to hang them up, they can look that way. But then its about all of us who work in the media understanding that it potentially might not work and that Travis might go back down the order, and then theyll have to find another opener. The selectors have a headache, and Im glad Im not one of them, he added. Australia has that now, and looking forward, whenever Uzzie decides to hang them up, they can look that way. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think experience is key You still need that senior figure in a way. But moving forward, Renshaw could be one. I think hell slide straight back in there. Hes had a taste of Test cricket. Article Source: IANS

Nitish Kumar Reddy hat-trick fails to prevent defeat for Andhra

Shivam Shukla and Tripuresh Singh shared seven wickets for MP to bowl Andhra out for 112

Batting At No. 3 Was Not An Ideal Position For Axar: Bangar

Sending Axar Patel: Former India batting coach Sanjay Bangar said promoting Axar Patel to bat at No. 3 in their 51-run defeat in the second T20I to South Africa was not the ideal move, adding that him taking time to find his rhythm also meant that the hosts' top order didnt click in a desired way. In the second T20I, India made a surprising move by promoting Axar, usually a floater in the middle order, to number three. It backfired as Axar struggled to get going and made a run-a-ball 21 before falling to pacer Ottniel Baartman. From India's point of view, they needed a big contribution from their top three batters. Abhishek Sharma, Shubman Gill, and Suryakumar Yadav's performance is always important when chasing a big total, because they have the chance to play the most balls. But the top three did not click, and South Africa played very well. They used the new ball well. Sending Axar Patel to bat at number three took him a lot of balls to find his rhythm, and it was not an ideal position for him. After that, Ottniel Baartman bowled very straight, with a 'you miss, I hit' style. We saw it in the ODIs too, and he got success again. George Linde came into the middle overs and contained the runs with tight bowling. South Africa will be very happy with how they played. They outplayed India in all three departments, said Bangar on JioStar. The only bright spot for India was left-handed batter Tilak Varma top-scoring with 62, an enterprising knock laced with two fours and five sixes. He plays proper cricketing shots and doesn't fight the pace. In international cricket, he doesn't just try to hit the 135-140 speed balls to mid-wicket. George Linde came into the middle overs and contained the runs with tight bowling. South Africa will be very happy with how they played. They outplayed India in all three departments, said Bangar on JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Overall, he is the best player in a crunch situation. He gives you the confidence to either reach a good score or complete a chase, added Bangar. Article Source: IANS

Rest or runs? Hurricanes and Scorchers take contrasting roads to WBBL final

The hosts were the standout side in the regular season but have not played a full game since December 1

Surya And Gill's Form Is A Real Cause Of Concern: Pathan

T20 World Cup: Former India all-rounder Irfan Pathan said the lean form of captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill, especially after another poor show in the 51-run loss in the second T20I, is a real cause of concern ahead of next years T20 World Cup. In the second T20I, Gill was dismissed on his first ball during India's 51-run loss to South Africa in New Chandigarh on Thursday as the Proteas levelled the five-match T20I series at 1-1, while Suryakumar didn't fare much better as he lasted just four deliveries for his five runs. The duo have combined for just 21 runs through the opening two matches of the ongoing T20I series against South Africa. The last time Gill and Suryakumar hit fifties in T20Is, it was more than 12 months ago. At the toss, we said it would not be bad for South Africa to bat first. Because they were chasing in the first match, and here in New Chandigarh, they batted first which meant you did not have the scoreboard pressure and you could bat freely. Quinton de Kock did a great job. But looking at this match, who should be credited? We have two points. One is the form of Indian captain Suryakumar Yadav and Shubman Gill which is a real cause of concern for India. Then there is South Africas bowling, it was a very good bowling performance. And Quinton de Kock is back in form, which is big news for South Africa, said Pathan on JioStar. With Gill enduring a second successive failure in the series and his tally standing at 263 runs from 14 T20Is this year, Pathan felt if the opener was in form, he wouldnt have been out for a golden duck. Shubman Gill will say he got a very good ball and looked stuck at the crease. For captain Suryakumar Yadav, I felt he needs to focus on his offside play. He was completely out of position when he got out. About Gills dismissal, the ball from Lungi Ngidi was top quality. The angle he bowled from was excellent. But if Gill was in form, he would have played that ball easily. He is not in form. Ngidi has bowled only three overs to him so far in the powerplay in this series and got him out twice, giving just four runs. He is putting a lot of pressure on Gill with the new ball. The runs not coming from Gills bat are a bad sign and increase the pressure on him and the team management. They will be asking what to do. He also felt the thought of getting back Sanju Samson, who thrived as an opener before Gill took his position, shouldnt be seen as an instant solution. This situation should not get worse. If the runs still dont come, you cant just bring Sanju Samson back and expect him to perform if he is also rusty. There are many questions. If they go back to Samson, it becomes very important for him to score runs. In 19 T20Is this year, Suryakumar has managed to score just 201 runs at an average of 14.35 across 17 innings, and Pathan has suggested he should consider playing his shots more in the off-side. He also felt the thought of getting back Sanju Samson, who thrived as an opener before Gill took his position, shouldnt be seen as an instant solution. This situation should not get worse. If the runs still dont come, you cant just bring Sanju Samson back and expect him to perform if he is also rusty. There are many questions. If they go back to Samson, it becomes very important for him to score runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Surya has shown a pattern of playing straight balls to the leg side and getting out. When you're not scoring, you should try to play in the off-side and in front. He has the skill to bring the ball in front of his eyes and use the pace, that's how he will start scoring again, said Pathan. Article Source: IANS

India Assistant Coach Ten Doeschate Wants Gill To Play T20Is In The Way He Fares In IPL

T20 World Cup: India assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said he wants Shubman Gill to bring his IPL batting template into the T20I set-up, adding that he believes the right-handed opener and skipper Suryakumar Yadav will come good closer to next years T20 World Cup. In the second T20I, Gill bagged a golden duck, while Suryakumar made just five as India lost to South Africa by 51 runs. The last time Gill and Suryakumar hit fifties in T20Is, it was more than 12 months ago. I think taking on the captaincy, the way he did in England and how well he led and how much pride he took in that performance, I think an element of that carried over into what he wanted to do in the T20 side. So anything he was too caring and maybe a little bit tight and towards the back end of Australia (tour), the talks were around him freeing up a little bit more. You do know trying to relinquish that responsibility certainly in that capacity where you feel like its all about you and you really need to justify your place in the team. We dont want him to do that. We want him to play as freely as he does during IPL seasons, ten Doeschate said to reporters at the conclusion of the game. Asked about Suryakumars prolonged lean run, ten Doeschate said, It's exactly the same with Surya. You mentioned the leadership roles and we are quite far down the road now with our planning and how we have set the team up. If you are going to be India's number three, there is pressure on you to score runs. There has been a fairly long string of form now where he hasn't got the scores we like. But in isolation, we are certainly not worried about it. Batting at three again, the job we want from him is to go out there and attack. Asked about Suryakumars prolonged lean run, ten Doeschate said, It's exactly the same with Surya. You mentioned the leadership roles and we are quite far down the road now with our planning and how we have set the team up. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The five-game T20I series between India and South Africa, currently at 1-1, will now move to Dharamsala for the third game to be played at the HPCA Stadium on Sunday. Article Source: IANS

Roston Chase: 'We try to hold everyone accountable for their actions'

West Indies captain Roston Chase wants to leave New Zealand with their first Test win in the country in 30 years

Satterthwaite, Peterson and Tsukigawa named NZ regional female pathway leads

Amy Satterthwaite is the most experienced of the trio, having represented NZ in 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is, leading the side in 15 of those games

NZ Move To Third In WTC Standings After 9-wicket Win Over WI In Wellington

ICC World Test Championship Final: New Zealand have boosted their prospects of a second appearance in the ICC World Test Championship Final with a comprehensive nine-wicket victory over the West Indies in the second Test in Wellington on Friday. The win earned New Zealand 12 World Test Championship points and allowed the 2021 champions to leapfrog Pakistan and India to join Sri Lanka in third place on the standings. New Zealand now have a win-loss percentage of 66.67, with leaders Australia (100 percent) and second-placed South Africa (75 percent) the only teams ahead of them. New Zealands bowlers did the damage on the third day at the Basin Reserve, with Jacob Duffys five-wicket haul helping the hosts dismiss the West Indies for just 128 in their second innings. That left New Zealand requiring only 56 for victory and a 1-0 series lead. Devon Conway (28 not out) and Kane Williamson (16 not out) guided them home after the early loss of skipper Tom Latham for nine. Speaking about the win, New Zealand skipper Latham said, We sort of got better and better. We probably took a little bit to get up to the game in the morning of day one. Obviously, there was particularly some weary legs, a bit of a hangover from the first Test. But we got better and better. And then obviously in the second innings, I thought we bowled fantastically well and sort of adjusted things a little bit in terms of how we wanted to operate. Speaking about the win, New Zealand skipper Latham said, We sort of got better and better. We probably took a little bit to get up to the game in the morning of day one. Obviously, there was particularly some weary legs, a bit of a hangover from the first Test. But we got better and better. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The third Test between New Zealand and West Indies will commence in Mount Maunganui on December 18. Article Source: IANS

2nd Test: Duffy's Five-for Powers NZ To 9-wicket Win Over WI In Wellington

World Test Championship: Jacob Duffy claimed his second five-wicket haul of the series as New Zealand beat West Indies by nine wickets in the second Test, taking a 1-0 lead in the three-match series with one game remaining. West Indies were bowled out for just 128 in their second innings, setting a meagre target of 56 for the hosts. Chasing the small total, opener Devon Conway held firm with an unbeaten 28 off 22 balls, while Kane Williamson (16 off 12) wrapped up the win. It was New Zealand's first victory of the 202527 World Test Championship (WTC) cycle. West Indies, meanwhile, have now lost six of their seven matches in this cycle and remain winless. Opting to field, New Zealand bowled out West Indies for 205 on the opening day. Blair Tickner was the pick of the bowlers, but he unfortunately dislocated his shoulder and took no further part in the Test. New Zealand endured some hiccups in their first innings, but half-centuries from Conway (60) and Mitchell Hay (61) helped them secure a 73-run lead. The visitors hardly put up a fight in their second innings. After losing two wickets in the 10-over phase before stumps on day two, they started well on the third morning, surviving the first half-hour without damage. However, a mix-up resulted in Brandon King being run out, triggering a collapse. Shai Hope departed in the same over, closing the face and giving Michael Rae a simple return catch. Captain Roston Chase fell soon after, edging a rising delivery from Duffy to the keeper. Hodge and first-Test hero Justin Greaves (25) briefly steadied the innings, but in the 31st over Hodges well-timed pull went straight to substitute Will Young, who completed a sharp rebound catch at midwicket. At 88 for 6, with the lead still under 20, the contest was effectively over. Duffy trapped Greaves lbw on review, then had Tevin Imlach edging a loose drive to second slip. Rae added his third by removing Jayden Seales caught behind, before Duffy sealed his five-for as No. 11 Ojay Shields miscued a pull to fine leg. Hodge and first-Test hero Justin Greaves (25) briefly steadied the innings, but in the 31st over Hodges well-timed pull went straight to substitute Will Young, who completed a sharp rebound catch at midwicket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: New Zealand 278/9 dec. (Hay 61, Conway 60, Phillip 3/70) and 57/1 (Conway 28*, Williamson 16*, Phillip 1/17) beat West Indies 205 (Hope 47, Tickner 4/32) and 128 (Hodge 35, Duffy 5/38, Rae 3/45) by nine wickets. Article Source: IANS

Warner: Head at No. 5 'a worse result' for England

The Australia selectors face a big call over whether to recall Usman Khawaja and, if so, where to bat him

Jacob Duffy Takes Five As New Zealand Thrash West Indies For 1-0 Test Series Lead

Jacob Duffy took five wickets as New Zealand cruised to a nine-wicket victory over the West Indies in the second Test in Wellington on Friday for a 1-0 series lead. Seamer Duffy took 5-38 from 17.2 overs, his second five-wicket haul in Tests, as the West Indies were rolled for 128 after lunch on day three, the hosts needing just 56 for victory. Devon Conway (28) and Kane Williamson (16) guided New Zealand to the emphatic win just before tea at the Basin Reserve. Debutant Michael Rae took 3-45 while Kavem Hodge was the best of the West Indian batters in their second innings, scoring 35. New Zealand lead the three-Test series 1-0, after the first match in Christchurch ended in a draw. The third Test begins in Mount Maunganui on Thursday. It was a limp batting effort from the West Indies, who resumed day three at 32-2, trailing by 41 runs having lost John Campbell and nightwatchman Anderson Phillip late on day two. At lunch they were on the ropes at 98-6 and needing a significant fightback -- like they did in the first Test -- to have any chance. But it took just 9.2 overs for New Zealand to clean up the tail, the collapse starting when Justin Greaves fell for 25 to an lbw off Duffy that was reviewed by New Zealand and would have clipped the top of leg stump. Earlier in the day Brandon King and Hodge started brightly, negating a pitch that was offering variable bounce to the New Zealand bowlers. King was the first to depart, for 22, after a dreadful mix-up running between the wickets, run out by Michael Bracewell. That sparked a mini-collapse as first Shai Hope and then captain Roston Chase were removed by Rae and Duffy respectively. Hodge patiently moved to 35 as wickets fell at the other end, but he departed after Will Young took a stunning diving catch from a pull shot at midwicket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score

Duffy five-for triggers West Indies slide to give New Zealand first win of WTC cycle

Visitors fold for 128 in their second innings to set hosts a straightforward chase, wrapped up by Conway and Williamson swiftly

MI Emirates Cruise Past Abu Dhabi Knight Riders with Seven-Wicket Win in ILT20 2025

MI Emirates returned to winning ways after securing a seven-wicket win over Abu Dhabi Knight Riders at the Zayed Cricket Stadium on Thursday. The win took the side to third on the points table with four points to their name, having won two of their four matches in the DP World ILT20 Season 4. It was a comprehensive performance with both bat and ball by the MI Emirates, who rode of Fazalhaq Farooqis 4 for 14 and Kamindu Mendis three wickets in the first innings to bowl them out for 122. Chasing a meagre total, Muhammad Waseems quickfire 27 runs off 12 balls, and then Jonny Bairstows unbeaten 49 off 38 balls, including seven fours, was enough to take MI Emirates over the line. Waseem opened the chase in style, smashing three sixes off Khary Pierre in the third over. He looked dangerous, but Ajay Kumar removed him with an edge to the wicketkeeper in the fourth over. Nicholas Pooran (3 off 6) fell soon after, nicking to Brandon McMullen off Jason Holder, but Bairstow took control. He blasted Kumar for four fours in a 17-run over, and Tom Banton (29 off 20) added a 16-run surge off Olly Stone, including two fours and a six. Their onslaught reduced the target to just 34 runs needed from 66 balls by the ninth over. Banton and Bairstows 64-run stand off 43 balls ended when Pierre had Banton caught by George Garton, but it was only a brief pause. Kamindu Mendis (10* off 7) finished the job with a six off Stone, sealing the win in 13.5 overs. Sent in to bat first, Abu Dhabi Knight Riders started aggressively through Phil Salt (17 off 9) and Alex Hales (6 off 8), but the momentum faded quickly. Romario Shepherd removed Salt, Farooqi dismissed Hales, and ADKR slipped to 37/2 by the end of the Powerplay. McMullen (15 off 19) managed a lone six before being stumped, while Alishan Sharafu (38 off 34) tried to keep the innings steady amid the fall of wickets. Mendis tightened the grip further, removing Liam Livingstone (2 off 6). Sherfane Rutherford (7 off 8) showed brief intent with a four off Mendis but edged behind to Pooran in the same over, piling on the pressure. Sunil Narine (26 off 20) then provided a spark, adding a brisk 36-run stand off 22 balls with Sharafu to revive ADKRs hopes. But just as momentum returned, Sharafu fell to Rashid Khan, and skipper Jason Holder (2 off 5) soon departed to Farooqi as well. Narine kept fighting, but another attempted big shot off Zahoor Khan went straight to Mendis. Farooqi then delivered the final blows in the 20th over, removing Khary Pierre (1 off 2) and Ajay Kumar (0 off 2), as MI Emirates bowled out ADKR for 122 in 19.3 overs. MI Emirates skipper Kieron Pollard said, We needed those points.Of course, we didn't expect 122, but restricting them to as little as possible was the aim. I thought the guys rebounded pretty well. Last game, we bowled well, too, but we didn't bat well. Today was a professional effort from everyone. All these things count for nothing if you don't play good cricket on the day. For us, it is about reminding the guys of what's important, which is to play cricket consistently and play well. Abu Dhabi Knight Riders skipper Jason Holder said, We're still trying to figure things out. 122 was never going to be enough, especially once the dew made batting easier. Many of our guys players got starts but didnt carry on, and we never built a partnership. Execution has been our biggest issue weve lacked consistency. We began the tournament well with a big score, but since then we havent adapted to conditions. Cricket fans and sports enthusiasts across India can catch the LIVE action exclusively on &Pictures SD, Zee Cinema HD, Zee Action, Zee Thirai SD, Zee Cinemalu and OTT platform Zee 5. Match Summary MI Emirates beat Abu Dhabi Knight Riders by seven wickets Abu Dhabi Knight Riders 122 in 19.3 overs (Alishan Sharafu 38, Sunil Narine 26, Fazalhaq Farooqi 4 for 14, Kamindu Mendis 3 for 21) MI Emirates 123/3 in 13.5 overs (Jonny Bairstow 49*, Tom Banton 29, Muhammad Waseem 27, Jason Holder 1 for 11, Ajay Kumar 1 for 30) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Player of the match: Kamindu Mendis

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Smriti Mandhana moves on after cancelling wedding; Palash's alleged fling shares first statement amid trolling

Indian cricketer Smriti Mandhana, after ending her relationship with composer Palash Muchhal, made her first public appearance since the breakup. She said cricket remains her greatest love and the Indian jersey her biggest motivation, helping her set aside personal struggles and stay focused on her life and career.

2nd T20I: When I Do Get Going, I Try To Make It Count, Says De Kock On Match-winning 90

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Wicketkeeper-batter Quinton de Kock, who made a match-winning 90 in South Africas 51-run win over India in the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, said he always looks to make it count whenever he finds rhythm. De Kock set the tone for South Africa, posting 213/4 with clean hitting at the top and dazzling shots hit square of the wicket through the leg-side. His 46-ball 90 was laced with five fours and seven sixes, apart from sharing an 83-run stand with Aiden Markram for the second wicket. I dont know whats going on; its just happening. I guess thats the thing, when I do get going, I try to make it count. Thats pretty much what it is, literally. Look, I just think its because we play each other so many times. We always play on good wickets, especially here back home. Thats literally what it boils down to at the end of the day, said de Kock after getting the Player of the Match award. Look, the guy (Arshdeep Singh) got me out plenty of times, that I know for sure. And it always seems to be the same way. So I think it was just a technical thing I needed to be aware of, and after that, it would sort of play out naturally. Thats pretty much all it boils down to, he said. He also went on to highlight the contrasting conditions across the two innings. I think the wicket was a bit slow up front, felt like it took some time to get to the bat. When we were batting, any new batsman would find it a bit harder to come in. The ball didnt feel like it was wet; it still felt dry. So it was just a matter of myself and Aiden (Markram) and me holding on and trying to build a partnership, because it wasnt going to be easy for the next guy walking in. When the Indian team batted, it went the other way. It got two-paced with a bit more pace in it, it quickened up, and everything moved around at pace. When we batted, it moved around quite slowly. So thats really the difference between the conditions in the two innings, he elaborated. Pacer Ottniel Baartman, who finished with four wickets, including three scalps coming in the 19th over, credited the early breakthroughs by Jansen and Ngidi for allowing him to be more attacking later with the ball. Nothing too fancy. I reckon the two frontline seamers set the tone for us up front and just allowed me to come in and do my thing. We acknowledged that there was something in the surface, so it was about keeping the ball on the surface and hopefully getting some purchase off the wicket. Pacer Ottniel Baartman, who finished with four wickets, including three scalps coming in the 19th over, credited the early breakthroughs by Jansen and Ngidi for allowing him to be more attacking later with the ball. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Explaining his approach and the training behind it, Baartman said, The training camps are quick and fast, so you need to be warm all the time. Whenever the captain calls upon you, you have to be ready. When they set the tone the way they did, when you have teams three or four down in the Power-play, its difficult for them to come back from that. That just allows the backup bowlers to do their thing. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: It's A Learning Process, Just Learn And Move Forward, Says Suryakumar Yadav

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: India captain Suryakumar Yadav admitted his side fell short in execution with both bat and ball in their 51-run defeat to South Africa in the second T20I, adding that its a part of their learning process and that they would move forward with lessons from here to the third game. At the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium, India didnt have the greatest times with the ball and bat conceding 213/4, including 15 wides. In reply, barring Tilak Varmas 62, none of the batters stood up to scoreboard pressure and were bowled out for 162. I mean, we bowled first, and there was not enough we could do. We could have just come back nicely because we bowled first, and then later on, they realised how the lengths are important on this wicket. But it's a learning process. Just learn and move forward, said Suryakumar in the post-match presentation ceremony. He noted that the dew played a role but said India lacked a backup plan when their primary plans failed. A little bit of dew as well, and also if it wasn't working, we should have had a second plan, but we didn't go to that. But it's okay. As I said, it's a learning process. We learned how they bowled in the second innings. We learned from that, and then we try to execute in the next game. On the batting front, Suryakumar conceded that the top order, including himself, had not done their job well. I think myself, Shubman, we could have given a good start because we can't rely on Abhishek all the time. The way he's been batting, he might have an off day. Shubman and I, Shubman and a few other batters should have taken it. He noted that the dew played a role but said India lacked a backup plan when their primary plans failed. A little bit of dew as well, and also if it wasn't working, we should have had a second plan, but we didn't go to that. But it's okay. As I said, it's a learning process. We learned how they bowled in the second innings. We learned from that, and then we try to execute in the next game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Explaining Axar Patels puzzling promotion to number three, Suryakumar said the team had backed his good batting form to pay off. We just thought in the last game, we had seen Axar bat really well in the longer format, and we wanted him to bat back the same way today as well. But unfortunately, (it didnt work) he did bat well. But we will see what's up for us going on in the next game. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: De Kock, Baartman Star As South Africa Level Series With 51-run Win Over India (ld)

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Riding on Quinton de Kocks blazing 90 and a 4-24 by Ottniel Baartman, South Africa levelled the five-game series with a resounding 51run win over India in the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Thursday. De Kock set the tone for South Africa, posting 213/4 with clean hitting at the top and dazzling shots hit square of the wicket through the leg-side, as his 46-ball 90 was laced with five fours and seven sixes. He also shared a partnership of 83 with skipper Aiden Markram for the second wicket, something which will keep IPL franchises interested in roping him at next weeks auction. India briefly clawed back with scalps, with Varun Chakaravarthy taking two of them. But South Africa regained control in the closing stages, as David Miller (20 not out) and Donovan Ferreira (30 not out) added 53 runs off just 25 balls to push South Africa past 210. In reply, Indias chase faltered early and never recovered from the blows of losing Shubman Gill, Abhishek Sharma, and skipper Suryakumar Yadav. With Axar Patels puzzling promotion to number three failing to pay off, Tilak Varma was the only Indian batter to find rhythm and show some enterprise by scoring 62 off 34 balls. But he lacked support from the other end as wickets tumbled around him, and Varma was the last man to fall as India were bowled out for 162 in 19.1 overs. South Africas bowlers maintained pressure throughout, used their cutters well, and conceded only five extras, including three wides, in tough bowling conditions, where India conceded a whopping 15 extras seven of which came from Arshdeep Singh. Apart from Baartman, Marco Jansen, Lungi Ngidi, and Lutho Sipamla took two wickets each. Inserted into batting first, de Kock gave South Africa a flying start by carting an erring Arshdeep for two sixes and a four in the third over. De Kock and Reeza Hendricks feasted on the short ball by getting a pulled six each off Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth over. India turned to spin in the fifth over, and Chakravarthy got the first breakthrough by castling Hendricks with a quicker delivery that skidded through the pitch. The dismissal extended Chakravarthys dominance over Hendricks, with him having removed the batter three times in just seven balls in T20Is. Despite that, South Africa maintained momentum as de Kock targeted Axar Patel in the sixth over - pulling him for a towering six, before punching and glancing off Hardik Pandya and Chakaravarthy for a brace of boundaries. While Markram was yet to find fluency, de Kock reached his half-century off 26 balls with a leg-side whip off a full toss from Pandya, before dancing down the pitch to thump Axar for a maximum and launching an off-colour Arshdeep, who gave a staggering seven wides in an 18-run 11th over, down the ground for another six. It felt Markram had found his groove by smacking Chakaravarthy over long-on for consecutive sixes. But attempting to hit another six, Markram holed out to deep mid-wicket, giving Chakaravarthy his second scalp. De Kock continued to dazzle by smashing Pandya for boundaries before an attempt to dab into the off side ended in his dismissal as wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma moved sharply to his left, parried the ball between gloves, and broke the stumps. One brought two for India as Axar cramped Dewald Brevis for room, and the top-edge on pull was caught by longon sprinting in to complete a diving low catch. With conditions being tough for bowlers, Miller and Ferreira hit six boundaries between themselves in the last three overs to lift South Africa past the 210-run mark. Indias chase began in disarray as Gill was undone by a terrific delivery from Ngidi that straightened off a good length, squaring him up and finding the edge to slip, as he fell for a golden duck. Abhishek, who had already cleared the boundary ropes twice, was completely squared up as Jansen got one to straighten over the middle stump to draw an outside edge to the keeper and dismiss him for 17. Axar walked in at number three, but soon saw Suryakumar depart as he went after a back-of-a-length ball from Jansen and edged behind to de Kock. Varma offered some resistance by hitting three boundaries, with a whipped six off Sipamla being the standout. But South Africa continued to chip away as Axars attempt to break free ended in chipping a drive to give cover a low catch off Baartman. Varma brought out the pull and switch hit to collect sixes, before bringing up his fifth T20I fifty in 27 balls by slog-sweeping Ngidi for another maximum. But South Africa continued to chip away as a struggling Pandya holed out to deep mid-wicket off Sipamla, just a ball after being dropped by long-on. Despite more lofty hits coming from the willows of Varma and Jitesh Sharma, who smashed 27 off 17 balls, the result was a foregone conclusion in South Africas favour as the visitors secured a superb series-levelling win. Varma brought out the pull and switch hit to collect sixes, before bringing up his fifth T20I fifty in 27 balls by slog-sweeping Ngidi for another maximum. But South Africa continued to chip away as a struggling Pandya holed out to deep mid-wicket off Sipamla, just a ball after being dropped by long-on. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa 213/4 in 20 overs (Quinton de Kock 90, Donovan Ferreira 30 not out; Varun Chakaravarthy 2-29, Axar Patel 1-27) beat India 162 all out in 19.1 overs (Tilak Varma 62, Jitesh Sharma 27; Ottniel Baartman 4-24, Marco Jansen 2-25) by 51 runs Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: This Is A Special Moment For Me, Says Harmanpreet On Stand Naming Honour

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: India womens captain Harmanpreet Kaur described the naming of a stand in her honour ahead of the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium as a special moment, adding that all her hard work and struggle paid off to see this day. On Thursday, before the start of the match, Harmanpreet and former India mens all-rounder Yuvraj Singh were honoured with stands named after them. The ceremony saw both players being joined by their family members, India players Amanjot Kaur, Harleen Deol, BCCI President Mithun Manhas, and Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann. After winning the World Cup, a lot of things have changed in my life. But I think this is a special moment for me. The soil on which I started playing, today I will finally have a stand on my name. So I think it's a very proud moment for me and I really want to thank the Punjab Cricket Association for that, said Harmanpreet, who captained India to the Womens ODI World Cup win in November, in a video posted by the BCCI on their social media accounts. All the hard work, all the struggle has paid off today. So I think it is a very emotional moment for me. But as well, whoever is going to watch this video, whoever is listening, I think it is going to be very motivational for all of them, she said. Yuvraj, who retired from international cricket in 2019, was instrumental in Indias triumph in the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007. His finest time came in the 2011 ODI World Cup -- scoring 362 runs and taking 15 wickets to be named Player of the Series in Indias victorious campaign. All the hard work, all the struggle has paid off today. So I think it is a very emotional moment for me. But as well, whoever is going to watch this video, whoever is listening, I think it is going to be very motivational for all of them, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Yuvraj Singh, who played 40 Tests, 304 ODIs, and 58 T20Is for India, expressed gratitude for a stand being named after him. That's a huge honour. I think it's been a lot of years playing for India and Punjab. So it's a special ground for me as a coach and a mentor, and thank you to the BCCI, PCA for giving me their support and giving me that huge honour. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Quinton De Kock's Dazzling 90 Takes South Africa To 213/4

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Powered by opener Quinton de Kocks blistering 90 off 46 balls, South Africa posted a competitive 213/4 in their 20 overs in the second T20I match against India at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium here on Thursday. The left-handed opener set the tone with some clean hitting and dazzling shots square of the wicket through the leg-side to strike five fours and seven sixes, apart from sharing a partnership of 83 with Aiden Markram for the second wicket. India briefly clawed back with scalps, but South Africa regained control in the closing stages, as David Miller (20 not out) and Donovan Ferreira (30 not out) added 53 runs off just 25 balls to push South Africa past 210. Indias pacers struggled under heavy dew, with Arshdeep Singh conceding nine wides and Jasprit Bumrah missing his yorkers. Varun Chakravarthy was the standout bowler, with 2-29, while Axar Patel found grip late to finish with 1-27. India now face a stiff chase, though the dew could tilt conditions in their favour. Inserted into batting first, de Kock gave South Africa a flying start by carting an erring Arshdeep Singh for two sixes and a four in the third over. De Kock and Reeza Hendricks feasted on the short ball by getting a pulled six each off Jasprit Bumrah in the fourth over. India turned to spin in the fifth over, and Varun Chakravarthy got the first breakthrough by castling Hendricks with a quicker delivery that skidded through the pitch. The dismissal extended Chakravarthys dominance over Hendricks, with him having removed the batter three times in just seven balls in T20Is. Despite that, South Africa maintained momentum as de Kock targeted Axar Patel in the sixth over -- pulling him for a towering six, before punching and glancing off Hardik Pandya and Chakaravarthy for a brace of boundaries. While skipper Aiden Markram was yet to find fluency in the innings, de Kock reached his half-century off 26 balls with a leg-side whip off a full toss from Pandya, before dancing down the pitch to thump Axar for a maximum and launching an off-colour Arshdeep, who gave a staggering seven wides in an 18-run 11th over, down the ground for another six. It felt Markram had found his groove by smacking Chakaravarthy over long-on for consecutive sixes. But attempting to hit another six, Markram holed out to deep mid-wicket, giving Chakaravarthy his second scalp. De Kock continued to dazzle by smashing Hardik Pandya for boundaries before an attempt to dab into the off-side ended in his dismissal on 90 as wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma moved sharply to his left, parried the ball between gloves, and broke the stumps. One brought two for India as Axar cramped Dewald Brevis for room, and the top-edge on pull was caught by longon sprinting in to complete a diving low catch. With conditions being tough for bowlers, David Miller and Donovan Ferreira hit six boundaries between themselves in the last three overs to lift South Africa past the 210-run mark. De Kock continued to dazzle by smashing Hardik Pandya for boundaries before an attempt to dab into the off-side ended in his dismissal on 90 as wicketkeeper Jitesh Sharma moved sharply to his left, parried the ball between gloves, and broke the stumps. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa 213/4 in 20 overs (Quinton de Kock 90, Donovan Ferreira 30 not out; Varun Chakaravarthy 2-29, Axar Patel 1-27) against India Article Source: IANS

Harmanpreet Kaur, Yuvraj Singh stands inaugurated at New Chandigarh Stadium

The stands were inaugurated before the start of the second men's T20I between India and South Africa at the venue

2nd T20I: Would Call Myself A Leg Spinner As I Bowl More Leggies, Says Chakaravarthy

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Ahead of the second T20I against South Africa, India spinner Varun Chakaravarthy said he would describe himself as a leg-spinner rather than being called an off-spinner or mystery spinner due to him bowling more leg-breaks of late. I would call myself a leg spinner, but because I'm bowling, I've started bowling more leggies nowadays, so leg spinner. But I'm more of a carrom ball bowler and off spinner as well, said Chakaravarthy in a pre-game chat with the broadcasters at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium. In 30 T20Is, Chakaravarthy has picked 47 wickets and established himself as a first-choice spinner in the set-up since October 2024. He spoke about the preparations from his end for the matches. Definitely, there's a lot of planning behind the scenes. I do sit with my video analyst and see what's happening and the latest match, what the opponents have played in the last five to six matches, what new shots they are trying to play, and just try to keep up on updates on all those things. In 30 T20Is, Chakaravarthy has picked 47 wickets and established himself as a first-choice spinner in the set-up since October 2024. He spoke about the preparations from his end for the matches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He signed off by saying that playing domestic cricket helps him improve upon any shortcomings in his bowling. The best thing where I can work is the domestic where the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy happens, and it's extremely competitive, and I definitely find it very tough to bowl there also. So playing such matches gives me more confidence in how to tackle the international-level players. So that's the thing - play more matches. Article Source: IANS

Chargesheet Filed Against Bangladesh A Cricketer Tofael Ahmed Raihan In Sexual Assault Case

Children Repression Prevention Act: Police have filed a chargesheet against Bangladesh A teams pace-bowling all-rounder Tofael Ahmed Raihan, accusing him of repeatedly sexually assaulting a young woman after allegedly promising to marry her. The chargesheet has been filed under Section 9(1) of the Women and Children Repression Prevention Act, sub-inspector Md Samiul Islam of Gulshan Police Station confirmed to Cricbuzz on Thursday. According to investigators, the allegations appear to be supported by the womans statement, hotel booking records, medical reports, and other evidence collected during the inquiry. The court is expected to review the charge sheet at the next hearing on December 30, the report suggested. Based on the case documents, Tofael initially reached out to the woman on Facebook in January. Their Messenger chats slowly evolved into what the woman perceived as a romantic relationship. She told police she agreed to keep talking with him only after he promised marriage. The woman claimed that on January 31, Tofael took her to a hotel in Gulshan, introduced her as his wife, and then sexually assaulted her. She stated that similar episodes happened several more times, and that he ultimately refused to marry her despite promising to do so repeatedly. She filed a case at Gulshan Police Station on August 1, accusing him of multiple acts of sexual violence. On September 24, the High Court granted Tofael six weeks of anticipatory bail and instructed him to surrender to the Women and Children Repression Prevention Tribunal upon the expiry of the bail period. However, police say he did not follow this directive. The woman claimed that on January 31, Tofael took her to a hotel in Gulshan, introduced her as his wife, and then sexually assaulted her. She stated that similar episodes happened several more times, and that he ultimately refused to marry her despite promising to do so repeatedly. She filed a case at Gulshan Police Station on August 1, accusing him of multiple acts of sexual violence. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The case now awaits the courts next steps as the legal process progresses. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Unchanged India Elect To Bowl First; South Africa Bring In Reeza, Baartman And Linde

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: An unchanged India have won the toss and elected to bowl first against South Africa in the second T20I at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh on Thursday. The stadium is hosting its first mens international cricket match and becomes the 55th venue in India to join this bandwagon. India are currently leading the five-game series 1-0, and a win on Thursday will help them make it 2-0. This has always been a wonderful ground. When we played here during franchise cricket, and recently saw a womens game also happen here, it was wonderful, and it's the first mens game, I heard, that's happening here -- international, so very excited for it. Im sure the crowd are also excited. Its really important for the boys to understand their responsibilities and see what the team demands in that situation. They batted perfectly, looking at the situation. 175 on that wicket was a little over par. The way we bowled, I think it was a lovely effort, said India skipper Suryakumar Yadav. He also heaped praise on seam bowling all-rounder Hardik Pandyas match-winning efforts in the first T20I in Cuttack. The balance that he (Hardik Pandya) provides in the team is amazing. The way he batted, the way he keeps calm on the ground when hes batting, when its a pressure situation. The way he bowled also, I think thats more important. His overs are also really important for the side. The way he carried himself throughout the game, it didnt look like he was injured, added Suryakumar. South Africa captain Aiden Markram said Tristan Stubbs, Keshav Maharaj, and Anrich Nortje have been replaced by Reeza Hendricks, Ottniel Baartman, and George Linde in the Proteas playing eleven. We would have fielded. Looks like a good wicket. Not a lot of international games here, but I hope to get a good score and put them under pressure. We have to make peace with the fact that we can have nights like the first game, and hope to make a better effort today. We'll get feedback on scores after a few overs, not thought of it now, he said. Playing XIs: We would have fielded. Looks like a good wicket. Not a lot of international games here, but I hope to get a good score and put them under pressure. We have to make peace with the fact that we can have nights like the first game, and hope to make a better effort today. We'll get feedback on scores after a few overs, not thought of it now, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa: Reeza Hendricks, Quinton de Kock (wk), Aiden Markram (capt), Dewald Brevis, David Miller, Donovan Ferreira, George Linde, Marco Jansen, Lutho Sipamla, Lungi Ngidi, and Ottneil Baartman Article Source: IANS

Unchanged India bowl, SA bring in Reeza, Baartman and Linde

Dewy conditions led captain Suryakumar Yadav to field first on a pitch known for favouring pace bowlers

Stands Named After Harmanpreet Kaur And Yuvraj Singh Inaugurated Ahead Of Second Mens T20I

Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket: Stands named after India womens captain Harmanpreet Kaur and former mens all-rounder Yuvraj Singh were inaugurated ahead of the second mens T20I against South Africa at the Maharaja Yadavindra Singh International Cricket Stadium on Thursday. Siddhant Sharma, the officiating Secretary of Punjab Cricket Association (PCA), had previously told IANS about honouring Harmanpreet and Yuvraj by naming stands after them, with the duo to be in attendance at the venue. The inauguration on Thursday was led by Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and PCA President Amarjit Mehta, with BCCI President Mithun Manhas and Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria in attendance as well. Last month, Harmanpreet created history by leading India to its first senior ICC trophy in womens cricket by lifting the ODI World Cup title at the D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Yuvraj, meanwhile, played a pivotal role in Indias twin World Cup triumphs -- the inaugural T20 World Cup in 2007 and the ODI World Cup in 2011. He had cemented his legacy as one of the games great match-winners in white-ball cricket. Yuvraj also joined the Indian team huddle ahead of the second T20I and offered words of wisdom to the Suryakumar Yadav-led side. Harmanpreet has become the third Indian womens cricketer to have a stand named after her. Previously, legendary players like Jhulan Goswami (Eden Gardens, Kolkata) and Mithali Raj (ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam) were bestowed with this honour. In the presence of Mann and other PCA office bearers, cash rewards of Rs 11 lakh for Harmanpreet, Amanjot Kaur, and Harleen Deol were also handed out, while the fielding coach of the World Cup-winning team, Munish Bali, was given a reward of Rs 5 lakh. Harmanpreet has become the third Indian womens cricketer to have a stand named after her. Previously, legendary players like Jhulan Goswami (Eden Gardens, Kolkata) and Mithali Raj (ACA-VDCA Cricket Stadium, Visakhapatnam) were bestowed with this honour. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Adding more sparks to the second T20I will be the presence of three Punjab players in vice-captain Shubman Gill, opener Abhishek Sharma, and fast bowler Arshdeep Singh in Indias playing eleven. Article Source: IANS

Why Fix What Is Not Broken, Says Aakash Chopra On MI Follows Their philosophy And Ideology At WPL Auction

The Mumbai Indians: Aakash Chopra shared his opinion on the Mumbai Indians strategy for the recent auction for the Womens Premier League (WPL), stating that the franchise remained firm in its ideology and philosophy and tried its best to retain its core, without trying to fix what is not broken. The WPL 2026 auction reaffirmed the Mumbai Indians belief in stability over sweeping overhaul, as the defending champions walked away with a squad that looks strikingly similar to last seasons title-winning unit. Rather than chasing dramatic restructuring, MI focused on retaining its trusted core and making precise, need-based additions, an approach that drew praise from JioHotstars panel of experts. Former India captain Mithali Raj underlined the franchises clarity in bolstering its bowling unit while preserving the foundation that has served it so well. The Mumbai Indians have done well in their bowling department. They have brought in top-quality seamers like Nikola Carey and Milly Illingworth, Raj said, speaking on JioHotstar. She also highlighted MIs enviable player availability record, stating, Their other main players may not have a direct replacement. But as we witnessed in the last three seasons, their main players have not missed any matches. Maybe they were rested when the team was in a good position, but they have not missed games due to injury. Hopefully, the next seasons will be the same for MI. Aakash Chopra echoed the sentiment, pointing out that MIs minimal tinkering is deliberate rather than conservative. The Mumbai Indians have kept almost everything the same. Only one keeper has changed. They played with Yastika Bhatia for three years. Now Gunalan Kamalini or someone else will come in her place. That is the only thing to look at. The rest is pretty much the same, he said. According to him, the franchises long-standing philosophy remains intact. They are still following their philosophy, even after the big auction. Why fix what is not broken? And if something is broken, then we will fix it again. They follow that philosophy and ideology, and it is right in front of us, he noted. Chopra added that managing continuity after a mega auction is an accomplishment in itself. It is very difficult to keep the same squad after a mega auction. After a big auction, you cannot always keep your main players. Winning makes the next auction the most difficult, because you do not want to change anything, but change is almost mandatory. Despite that, if you can keep your eleven players from last year, or your core, and no main player is missing, that is a huge achievement. It is almost impossible. But the Mumbai Indians have proved that nothing is impossible. Their squad is exactly the same as last year, with only minor changes. MI are certainly moving in the right direction to win their third WPL title, he explained. Saba Karim, too, emphasised that MIs disciplined approach came from knowing exactly whom they needed and why, stating that once those priorities were secured, MI shifted to supplementary talent. Despite that, if you can keep your eleven players from last year, or your core, and no main player is missing, that is a huge achievement. It is almost impossible. But the Mumbai Indians have proved that nothing is impossible. Their squad is exactly the same as last year, with only minor changes. MI are certainly moving in the right direction to win their third WPL title, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With their proven match-winners retained, their core untouched, and targeted reinforcements in place, the Mumbai Indians appear poised for another formidable title push. If continuity breeds success, MI may once again be setting the blueprint for building and sustaining a WPL dynasty. Article Source: IANS

Kohli And Pant To Join Delhi Team For Vijay Hazare Trophy As Probables List Announced

CAC Chairman Vijay Dahiya: Virat Kohli and Rishabh Pant will be joining the Delhi team for the upcoming Vijay Hazare Trophy, as the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) announced the list of probable players for the domestic one-day competition. The availability of Kohli, which was confirmed earlier this month, and Pant is expected to lend considerable depth and experience to Delhis batting order, especially with the BCCI making a rule that contracted India players have to feature in domestic cricket when international commitments are not on. The Delhi team will play its first two Elite Group D games against Andhra and Gujarat at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which serves as Kohli's home ground for his IPL team, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The side is also scheduled to play the remaining five games at the Alur Cricket Ground, on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Kohli will come on the back of being Player of the Series in the 2-1 win over South Africa in the ODI series, while Pant will be itching to get some game time after being an unused player in the recent 50-over fixtures against the Proteas. The duo will be available till Indias ODI series against New Zealand happens from January 11-17, 2026. The Delhi team will play its first two Elite Group D games against Andhra and Gujarat at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru, which serves as Kohli's home ground for his IPL team, the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). The side is also scheduled to play the remaining five games at the Alur Cricket Ground, on the outskirts of Bengaluru. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A further list of 50 probable players has also been released. They are:- Dev Lakra, Divij Mehra, Yugal Saini, Sujal Singh, Rajneesh Dadar, Aman Bharti, Govind Mittal, Sumit Beniwal, Shubham Dubey, Keshav Dabas, Rahul Choudhary, Samarth Seth, Shivam Tripathi, Anmol Sharma, Shivam Gupta, Lakshay Thareja, Manan Bhardwaj, Rounak Waghela, Mayank Gussain, Keshav R Singh, Laxman, Divansh Rawat, Pranav Rajvanshi, Pranshu Vijayran, Siddhant Sharma, Gagan Vats, Vansh Bedi, Rahul Gahlot, Vishal Rai, Samarth Singh, Sanat Sangwan, Aayush Singh, Sumit Mathur, Sampooran Tripathi, Vivek Tiwari, Hrithik Shokeen, Tejas Baroka, Saksham Sharma, Dev Dubey, Shivam Sharma, Rohit Yadav, Anirudh Choudhary, Vishant Bhati, Pranav Pant, Pankaj Jaswal, Ajay Guliya, Siddhant Bansal, Vikas Solanki, Divij Prakash and Suryakant Chauhan Article Source: IANS

Mooney, King book Perth Scorchers' spot in WBBL final

Sydney Sixers started 184 chase promisingly in the Challenger, but fell 11 short in the end

Nick Browne named as Essex women's batting coach in club overhaul

Former opening bat takes first step into coaching following retirement this summer

Ticket sales announced for 2026 T20 World Cup

Prices in phase one of the ticket sales start at INR 100 and LKR 1000

Malaysia U19 Skipper Patro Keen To Take On Powerhouses India And Pakistan

The Malaysia Cricket Association: Malaysia captain Deaaz Patro isn't losing sleep over the prospect of facing powerhouses India and Pakistan in the upcoming Mens U19 Asia Cup, which starts in the UAE on Friday. His strategy is simple: block out the noise, focus on the contest, and take it one ball at a time. We agree that India and Pakistan are both very big teams in the cricketing world. But when we enter the field, we focus on the bowler and batsman. We just try to focus on one ball at a time instead of thinking about the result, Patro said in an exclusive conversation with IANS, facilitated by Sony Sports Network, ahead of Malaysia's fifth U19 Asia Cup appearance. Following their clash against Pakistan on Friday, Malaysia will face the UAE on December 14, before taking on a formidable India on December 16. For Patro and vice-captain Muhammad Aalif, the tournament represents both a significant challenge and an important opportunity following their team's third-place finish in the ACC U19 Men's Premier Cup 2025 a result that secured their spot in the Asia Cup. So after we got back, we had four days of training. So, every day, just training and getting prepared for this tournament. As a batsman, I've been practising more on the batting while our bowlers are working on their bowling. So I think it's all equally prioritised, said Patro. Vice-captain Aalif echoed the pragmatic approach when discussing the team's objectives for the Asia Cup. I think we want to give our best. We want to win, of course. I think we'll learn a lot by playing against these big countries. We'll learn their routines, their mentality, and it'll be good for us, he said. But Malaysia arent coming just to participate, if one goes by Patro and Aalif spelling out their ambitious personal targets. For me, I'm looking to get into the playoffs stage and score around 300 to 400 runs in this competition. For Malaysia, this will be a good exposure for us since it's very rare for us to be playing against such high-level countries. But that doesn't mean we are not going to give our best. We are still going to come and do our best for the country. I think our team is very ready to take up the challenge, said Patro. Aalif's vision is also equally high. For me personally, I would like to be in the top three best batsmen and this is my target for this Asia Cup. The Malaysia Cricket Association has been with us since we were young. They've been giving us a lot of opportunities to play cricket in Malaysia - such as the Malaysia Premier League, and playing with the men's senior team, he said. The confidence isn't unfounded, as demonstrated by the teams chemistry built over years of playing together. We had psychology sessions with our psychologist and team bonding sessions, which helped us know each other better, and to improve our communication. Actually, our team has been together since the under-12s. Most of us have been playing together since under-16. So I would say we are very well gelled, said Patro. That cohesion has been further strengthened through focused preparation. Most of the time, we've been staying here in Bayuemas for a camp to prepare for the Asia Cup. Then, from the coaches and staff, they've been giving us a lot of support, giving us motivation and continuing to play very well on a higher level of cricket, said Aalif. He further elaborated on the comprehensive training regime. To be honest, every morning before we start our practice session, we do high-intensity fitness, which is we do a bit of leg training and then some quick running between the wickets, said Aalif. Patro also expressed similar views. The weather over here is quite similar. It's also very hot. So we are quite used to playing in hotter weather. As Aalif said, every morning before training, we have fitness sessions like sprinting, then endurance and agility training. Aalifs technical preparation has been equally meticulous. For me, as a batsman, I'll be focusing on facing spinners on the ground. So I've been doing quite a lot of training against the spinners, with coaches and then alongside the batting coach. Both players carry inspiration from cricket's biggest stars. Patro models his game after Australian dasher David Warner. Since I was young, I used to love watching him, how he bats aggressively in the power play and being able to do so well in all three formats. So I've always looked up to him, the captain said. Aalif, unsurprisingly, looks to India's modern batting great, Virat Kohli. Everyone knows that Virat Kohli is the biggest star in cricket. I love him because of his style, action, and aggression on the field. On and off, he's a good guy, he shared. Their journeys to this moment reflect Malaysian cricket's grassroots development. Patro's path began early, shaped by family influence. For me, actually, my dad was a big fan of cricket. So when I was just 4 years old, he put me into a cricketing club over here. When I was 10 years old, I started playing for our state under-16 team. Then, after the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown, I really started to put in more effort. I got the opportunity to play for Malaysia for the first time in 2023. Then, after that, I just kept working hard, and now I'm captain of Malaysia under-16 and Malaysia under-19, he recalled. Aalif's introduction to cricket was purely accidental. I never knew there was a sport named cricket. But at my primary school, there was a teacher who coached the cricket team. So asked me, Do you want to play for the cricket team in my school? I just went, and day by day I've loved playing this sport. So now, I'm here. Then, after the COVID-19 pandemic and the lockdown, I really started to put in more effort. I got the opportunity to play for Malaysia for the first time in 2023. Then, after that, I just kept working hard, and now I'm captain of Malaysia under-16 and Malaysia under-19, he recalled. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Watch the ACC Mens U19 Asia Cup 2025 live on Sony Sports Network from December 12-21 across Sony Sports Ten 1 and Ten 2 SD & HD channels, and will be livestreamed on Sony Liv Article Source: IANS

Bangladeshs Hossan Eyes U19 Asia Cup Defense As Rehearsal For Next Years WC

U19 Asia Cup: Bangladeshs seam-bowling all-rounder Rizan Hossan views the upcoming U19 Mens Asia Cup, starting in the UAE on Friday, as the perfect dress rehearsal for the defending champions ahead of next years World Cup, to be held in Zimbabwe and Namibia. Bangladesh is playing very well in every match so far. In this tournament, match by match, we will try to focus on the processes step by step and try to win the title. This tournament has a very good importance, as it's a big event before the World Cup happens. We have a good team and the likes of India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have good teams. So this is a very great platform for preparing for the World Cup, said Hossan in an exclusive conversation with IANS, facilitated by Sony Sports Network. Bangladesh enter as defending champions after beating India in last year's final, adding to their 2020 U19 World Cup triumph also secured by beating the same opposition. Though their meeting with India will happen in the later stage of the competition, Bangladesh first need to get the better of Afghanistan, Sri Lanka and Nepal in their Group B games. For Hossan, confidence is at an all-time high following recent performances like hitting a century in England, making 95 and picking five-for against South Africa and hitting 75 not out along with taking 2-54 against Afghanistan. I am very confident now and trying to give the same performance as the one against South Africa in the upcoming games. I am very confident of contributing in all three departments batting, bowling and fielding, he said. That rare fast-bowling all-rounder ability also makes Hossan a crucial cog in the wheel. My cricket journey started in my district Tangail and I am from Dhaka division. From the district, I went to the academy, then division, age-level cricket, under 14, 16, 18, then played at the national level in under 15, 17 and 19, and that's how I got my selection here, he explained. Family support has been instrumental in his journey so far. My family, especially my father, supports me a lot. My two older brothers are also cricketers and they participate in the competitions in the division. So I get a lot of help from them, said Hossan, who speaks a fair bit of Hindi and English, apart from his mother tongue Bengali. The Bangladesh coaching staff's investment in developing his all-round game has paid dividends. Our coaching staff is very supportive. They always try to give me time with batting, bowling and fielding. They give tons of options to me because I am a very hard-working person who always tries to learn new things and is very much concentrated on the game. With their support, I always try to give the best performance for my team, he said. Hossan's approach to batting reflects maturity beyond his years. Its just normal things like try to play ball-by-ball and handle the situation well and take no big risks. Also, I just try to be calm on the field and not to focus on the target or hitting big runs quickly. The key is set some smaller targets like 10-20 runs and then everything becomes easy. Preparation for the U19 Mens Asia Cup has been comprehensive for him. I practised different things for the upcoming Asia Cup. I focused on facing spin bowling more. I tried to make some new shots against back of the length deliveries and on the leg side as well. For bowling he's now working on maintaining the same loads like before. His game draws inspiration from England's Test captain and fellow seam bowling all-rounder Ben Stokes. I like his attitude in batting, bowling and captaincy everything. That's why he is my idol and favourite player. Preparation for the U19 Mens Asia Cup has been comprehensive for him. I practised different things for the upcoming Asia Cup. I focused on facing spin bowling more. I tried to make some new shots against back of the length deliveries and on the leg side as well. For bowling he's now working on maintaining the same loads like before. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Watch the ACC Mens U19 Asia Cup 2025 live on Sony Sports Network from December 12-21 across Sony Sports Ten 1 and Ten 2 SD & HD channels and livestream on Sony Liv Article Source: IANS

Jofra Embarrassed Himself And His Team: Ponting Reacts To Archer-Smith Clash During Gabba Test

Gabba Test: Former Australia skipper Ricky Ponting, reacting to the verbal clash between Jofra Archer and Australian captain Steve Smith during the second Ashes Test, said the England pacer embarrassed himself by failing to deliver the pace and aggression when it was most needed earlier in the match. Engaged in a fiery exchange on Day 4 of the day-night Test, when Archer fired down a searing short ball to Smith, which dispatched it to the boundary with an impressive pull shot. The next delivery was again short, and Smith attempted to lift it over the slip cordon, sparking a reaction from Archer, who directed a few verbal barbs at the Aussie skipper. Archer was picked up on the stump mic, saying, Likes to play shots when theres not much on the scoreboard. It lit a fuse under Smith who returned serve, the stump microphone picking up the exchange. You bowl fast when theres nothing going on champion, Smith said. Ponting, who was in the commentary box during the match, opined that Archer had embarrassed himself and the team. When I championed him, I could actually hear what Steve Smith had said to him in the stump mic. Smithy said champion, and then that's just what came out of my mouth, but it just got me going and got the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. There havent been many games that Ive commentated that I wish I was back playing again. But I wish I was out there the other night as part of that, because thats what you miss and thats what its all about, Ponting told SEN. But look, for Jofra, he just embarrassed himself, and he embarrassed his team the other night, that's what I make of that. To bowl his fastest spell ever in Test cricket, when Australia's chasing 60 it (the fast spell) has been there the whole time, its been up his sleeve, and England have needed him to do it, and he hasnt been willing to do it. When I championed him, I could actually hear what Steve Smith had said to him in the stump mic. Smithy said champion, and then that's just what came out of my mouth, but it just got me going and got the hairs on the back of my neck standing up. There havent been many games that Ive commentated that I wish I was back playing again. But I wish I was out there the other night as part of that, because thats what you miss and thats what its all about, Ponting told SEN. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Theyre just going to rock up and Australias going to fall over and well bowl them out. Well, that doesn't happen against Australia, it doesn't happen in Ashes cricket, he added. Article Source: IANS

Scotland Announce Kathryn Bryce-led Squad For Womens T20 WC Qualifier

T20 World Cup Qualifier: Scotland have announced their womens team for the upcoming ICC Womens T20 World Cup Qualifier in Nepal. The fifteen-player squad is headed by Kathryn Bryce. Pippa Sproul has also been named in the squad that participated in the ICC Emerging Nations Trophy in Thailand last month. The Qualifier runs from January 12 to February 2, with 10 teams, including Scotland, competing for four spots in the 2026 ICC Womens T20 World Cup in England next summer. Craig Wallace, head coach of the Scottish womens team, said, We have a really exciting opportunity ahead of us going into Nepal, with an opportunity to qualify for another World Cup. We know how hard qualifying tournaments are, and the Emerging Nations Trophy showed us how tough associate cricket is, so we just need to take it one game at a time and play how we know we can. Having that time together in Thailand was really important to get everyone back together and play T20 cricket as a group for this first time in a while. It was great getting to work on a few different things in terms of how we want to play and push the players really hard we still have work to do, but it was good to get some hard games under our belt and play in high-pressure situations. Its pleasing to welcome Kathryn Bryce back, shes our captain and a world class player, and she adds so much value to all aspects of the game, both on and off the pitch. Sarah Bryce and Abtaha Maqsood did an outstanding job in Thailand leading the group, and Kathryn just adds value on top of that. Having that time together in Thailand was really important to get everyone back together and play T20 cricket as a group for this first time in a while. It was great getting to work on a few different things in terms of how we want to play and push the players really hard we still have work to do, but it was good to get some hard games under our belt and play in high-pressure situations. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Scotland Women's squad: Kathryn Bryce (captain), Chloe Abel, Olivia Bell, Sarah Bryce, Darcey Carter, Priyanaz Chatterji , Katherine Fraser, Ailsa Lister, Abtaha Maqsood, Megan McColl, Mollie Parker, Hannah Rainey, Niamh Robertson-Jack, Rachel Slater, Pippa Sproul Article Source: IANS

TPL 7: Former World No. 23 Damir Dzumhur Lauds Tournaments Global Prominence

Former World No: Two days into Season 7 of the Tennis Premier League (TPL), the leagues expanding international reputation has been strongly validated by players across generations, as former World No. 23 Damir Dzumhur, representing Yash Mumbai Eagles, and young Czech player Dalibor Svrcina of Chennai Smashers shared their initial thoughts on the tournament and offered insights into TPLs growing global reach. Damir Dzumhur, a 33-year-old veteran of the league with experience facing top players like Carlos Alcaraz, stated that he was aware of TPL long before arriving in India. He said, I had spoken to a couple of international players that played TPL in the past and a lot of them told me the management is very good and its very fun being inside the team. I myself have played Davis Cup for my country (Bosnia and Herzegovina) for 15 years so I really enjoy working together as a team. He also praised TPLs unique format while saying, I like how it works with only 25 points a match. This is incredible for someone who wants to start watching Tennis because Grand Slam matches can go for about 4-5 hours and not everyone enjoys that. Its shorter, there is always movement, there is always something happening. Its a lot of fun for people watching, he said. The surface is very nice, the weather is great. Everything we have here to practice and play is really good. Im definitely up to do it again in future years, he concluded. Representing the younger generation of international players experiencing TPL for the first time, Dalibor Svrcina shared similar praise. The 23-year-old Czech player, who recently entered the top 100 rankings said, Its been really good so far. The facilities, hotel and the organisers are good. We feel very welcomed here. As a team we are in the positive numbers. My goal now is to help my team reach the semi-finals. Describing the leagues structure as a welcome change, he stated, Its a very different format, very fast, very fun and entertaining. You see different good players back-to-back so it keeps everything fresh. Its nice even for the fans. Representing the younger generation of international players experiencing TPL for the first time, Dalibor Svrcina shared similar praise. The 23-year-old Czech player, who recently entered the top 100 rankings said, Its been really good so far. The facilities, hotel and the organisers are good. We feel very welcomed here. As a team we are in the positive numbers. My goal now is to help my team reach the semi-finals. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With endorsements from experienced player Damir Dzumhur and rising star Dalibor Svrcina, TPLs broad appeal across different age groups becomes evident. Their experiences show that the league is highly regarded internationally and fulfils its promises once players reach India. As Season 7 advances, TPL solidifies its status as a globally significant, player-orientated, and highly engaging tennis event. Article Source: IANS

Babar Azam Looks Forward To Playing With Steve Smith In BBL

Big Bash League: Pakistans batting star Babar Azam says he is eager not only to entertain fans but also to sharpen his game alongside Australian great Steve Smith as anticipation builds ahead of the Big Bash Leagues opening weekend. With large pockets of the Pakistani community in Sydney and Perth rushing to buy tickets, Babar has quickly become one of the major attractions of this years tournament. The Sydney Sixers begin their campaign on Sunday against the five-time champions, the Perth Scorchers, at Optus Stadium. I am super excited to be a part of the Sydney Sixers, Babar told Telecom Asia Sport. It is a fact that you learn a lot while playing in Australia so this is going to be a good experience for me, more so because I will get a chance to play alongside Steve Smith, who is a great player. He is one of seven Pakistani players participating in the latest edition of the league. His long-time T20I opening partner Mohammad Rizwan joins the Melbourne Renegades, while Shaheen Shah Afridi turns out for Brisbane Heat. Haris Rauf reunites with the Melbourne Stars, Shadab Khan represents Sydney Thunder, Hasan Ali plays for the Adelaide Strikers, and Hasaan Khan also lines up for the Renegades. Babar said he is already feeling the support from local Pakistan fans. I have already seen the excitement in the Pakistan community in Perth and when I go to Sydney there will be more fans coming, so its a nice thing to entertain them. For many supporters, this is a rare opportunity to watch the prolific batter in action. Mohammad Imran, who has lived in Perth for 20 years, said he and his friends secured their seats early. We bought tickets for the match well in advance and will go to see our beloved batter in action. Babar said he is already feeling the support from local Pakistan fans. I have already seen the excitement in the Pakistan community in Perth and when I go to Sydney there will be more fans coming, so its a nice thing to entertain them. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Babar is our honour, said Sohail Sheikh, a cricket organiser in Sydney. There is a lot of excitement amongst the Pakistani fans over Babar coming to Sydney and play for our team in the BigBash League. Article Source: IANS

Hay Shines on Test Debut as New Zealand Take 41-Run Lead in Wellington

Mitch Hay scored an aggressive half-century on his Test debut to help New Zealand to a 41-run lead over the West Indies at the close of play on day two of the second Test in Wellington on Thursday. The Black Caps were 278 all out with about an hour to play in the final session, after the West Indies scored 205 at the Basin Reserve. At stumps the visitors were 32-2 in their second innings, with Brandon King (15) and Kavem Hodge (3) at the crease. Michael Rae and Jacob Duffy took a wicket each as New Zealand got through 10 overs in fading light. Hay top-scored with 61 from 93 deliveries, playing with poise in his first taste of Test cricket. He hit nine fours and a six. Anderson Phillip was the pick of the visiting bowlers, taking 3-70 in 13 overs. Kemar Roach had figures of 2-43. The 25-year-old Hay came to the crease at 117-4 after Rachin Ravindra, for five, and Devon Conway, who made 60, fell in back-to-back overs immediately after lunch. He quickly found his feet at Test level, at ease with the pace and movement of the Basin Reserve wicket. Hay and Daryl Mitchell combined for a 73-run partnership for the fifth wicket, with Hay the aggressor, leaving Mitchell in the unusual position of playing anchor. It was awesome to see Mitch do what he does, Mitchell said of his Canterbury teammate. He's obviously done that for Canterbury for a number of years. He's good fun out in the middle, and he showcased the talent he's got. Debut's always nervy, and it's always nice to get that first run, so very proud of him. Mitchell fell just before tea for 25 and Hay eventually hooked a ball to Roach in the deep. Zak Foulkes added 23 unbeaten runs but ran out of partners. - 'One of my best' - Earlier, Conway scored eight fours and faced 108 balls before feathering one down the leg side to wicketkeeper Tevin Imlach just after lunch. Conway and Kane Williamson, who was out near the end of the morning session for 37, had steadied the New Zealand innings after captain Tom Latham was bowled by Roach for 11. After the hosts resumed on their overnight 24-0, Williamson came to the crease at 36-1 and New Zealand's record run-scorer punished some erratic bowling as he hit seven fours in a 46-ball stay. Conway was given a life when dropped by Shai Hope at leg slip on 28. He took advantage and had put on 67 for the second wicket when Phillip bowled Williamson with an unplayable swinging delivery that took the top of off-stump. That was definitely one of my best, Phillip said. And it was Kane Williamson as well. I've been bowling well, so glad to see that it's coming together when it matters. Seam bowler Blair Tickner dislocated his shoulder on day one and will not bowl or field for the rest of the match, the hosts said. Tickner, who took 4-32 in a career-best effort on Tuesday, was taken to hospital after being injured while fielding and will only bat if necessary. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The first Test ended in a draw.