Cricket News

Novelty Of Rashid Khan Has Worn Off A Little, Not As Intimidating As Before, Says Kumble Ahead Of IPL 2026

Even Rahul Tewatia: Former India captain Anil Kumble believes IPL 2022 winners Gujarat Titans (GT) can no longer lean heavily on leg-spinner Rashid Khan, saying that the Afghanistan star's impact has diminished and the novelty factor has worn off a little. GT, who bowed out in the Eliminator of IPL 2025, boasted one of the strongest bowling units, but Rashid endured his poorest campaign in the competition. He managed to pick only nine wickets at an average of 57.11 and an economy rate of 9.35. Rashid also conceded 33 sixes - the most by any bowler in a single IPL season - as batters found ways to dominate him. Kumble also felt the Shubman Gill-led franchise would need greater contributions from left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore, as well as off-spin bowling all-rounders Washington Sundar and Rahul Tewatia, to remain competitive in IPL 2026. I think the novelty of Rashid Khan has worn off a little. There are many similar bowlers available now, so he is no longer as intimidating as he was before. His workload has to be managed more, along with bowlers like Sai Kishore. Even Rahul Tewatia and Washington Sundar can contribute more for GT this season, said Kumble, a former RCB player and ex-Punjab Kings head coach, on JioStar. Kumble also felt the Shubman Gill-led franchise would need greater contributions from left-arm spinner R Sai Kishore, as well as off-spin bowling all-rounders Washington Sundar and Rahul Tewatia, to remain competitive in IPL 2026. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Rashid has linked his prolonged struggles in T20 cricket to the back surgery he underwent in 2023, following his participation in the Mens ODI World Cup in India. He returned to action only months after the operation, never giving himself sufficient time to regain his bowling rhythm and accuracy. Article Source: IANS

Joe Clarke 60, Rauf three-for power Stars to top of the table

Rauf's three-for restricted Sydney Thunder to 128 in the first innings

High Court directs CSA to let Shamsi complete ILT20 season

This judgment could have far-reaching implications for freelance cricketers globally

Root admits 'weird' feeling after victory that ends Australian drought

He hopes that another good week in Sydney can lay the foundations for England's next Ashes tour

Nortje hopes 'ideal build-up' earns him T20 World Cup 2026 berth

He has played only two matches for South Africa in the last 18 months but started SA20 2026 with a four-for

Army Boys Sports Company, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Enter Sub-jr Men Academy C'ships Final

Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy: After winning their semi-final matches, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy and Army Boys Sports Company advanced to the finals of the 3rd Hockey India Sub Junior Men Academy Championship 2025 - Zone A & B, held at the Veer Narmad South Gujarat University Hockey Ground in Surat, Gujarat, on Sunday. In the first semi-final, Army Boys Sports Company defeated Ritu Rani Hockey Academy 5-1. Arjun scored a hat-trick (25, 37, 39), while Shubham Sanjay Shinde (44) and Arkit Barua (58) added goals, securing their spot in the final. Sandeep Singh (45) scored the only goal for Ritu Rani Hockey Academy. In the second semi-final, Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy won a penalty shootout against Sail Hockey Academy. Sanmukh Singh scored for Roundglass at 57, and Mohmad Shahid scored for Sail at 30. After a 1-1 draw in regular time, Roundglass clinched victory with a 3-2 score in the shootout. Earlier in the tournament, Roundglass Hockey Academy recorded a massive 190 victory over Cheema Hockey Academy in their Pool A game. Inderjit Singh (13, 30, 45) scored a hat-trick, while Captain Arshpreet Singh (4, 14), Anurag Singh (9, 10), Om Rajnesh Saini (36, 39), Gurwinder Singh (2, 48), and Varinder Singh (59, 60) netted braces. Sukhpreet Singh (19), Prince Singh (51), Jarman Singh (55), Sunny (7), Sukhmanpreet Singh (5), and Amandeep (5) added one goal each. In Pool A, Army Boys Sports Company beat Cheema Hockey Academy 61 on Thursday. Goals came from Bara Chhitij (1, 4), Venkateswara Kolnati Rao (22, 47), K.T. Aiyappa Linith (7), and R.P. Rithveesh (57). Harmanjot Singh scored the only goal for Cheema Hockey Academy. Ritu Rani Hockey Academy will compete against Sail Hockey Academy for third place, while Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy will face Army Boys Sports Company in the final on Monday. Brief results: Ritu Rani Hockey Academy will compete against Sail Hockey Academy for third place, while Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy will face Army Boys Sports Company in the final on Monday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Roundglass Punjab Hockey Club Academy defeated Sail Hockey Academy 1-1 (3-2) in semi-final 2 Article Source: IANS

Indian Junior Mens Hockey Team Cap Off A Successful 2025 With Two Major International Medals

Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu: The Indian junior mens hockey team concluded 2025 on a high note, earning two major international medals and preparing extensively for the FIH Hockey Mens Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025 in December. The foundation for the campaign was laid through a series of intensive national training camps conducted throughout the year under the guidance of PR Sreejesh. Through these camps, the coach built a squad and prepared the players to be at their best as the season progressed towards the Junior World Cup in December. Indias competitive build-up began with the Four Nations Tournament in June, which served as an essential preparatory assignment against quality European opposition. Facing hosts Germany, Spain, and Australia, the Indian junior side tested their systems against heavyweights and finished the tournament in third place, registering a key 2-1 victory over Australia in the 3rd/4th place match. The tournament provided valuable match exposure and clarity on combinations as the team continued its World Cup preparations. Next, they carried the momentum and learnings into the 2025 Sultan of Johor Cup in October, where India produced a strong and consistent run to claim the Silver Medal. The team registered important victories over Great Britain, New Zealand and Malaysia, drew 3-3 with Pakistan, and progressed to the final after a composed league-stage performance. In the title clash, India conceded an unfortunate goal in the 59th minute, lost 1-2 to Australia, and settled for the silver medal. All the preparation led the side to the FIH Hockey Mens Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025, the most important assignment of the season, where India delivered a memorable campaign on home soil. India began their campaign with three comfortable wins in the pool stage over Chile, Oman and Switzerland, respectively, and entered the knockout rounds. The quarter-final proved to be a defining moment, as the Indian team held their nerve and defeated Belgium 4-3 in a shootout to book a place in the semi-finals. Goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh showed incredible class and valour, making two crucial saves in the shootout to ensure India progressed in the tournament. Unfortunately, India lost 1-5 in the semi-final against champions Germany but responded with character in the 3rd/4th place playoff, producing an incredible comeback against Argentina to secure the bronze medal. Despite being two goals down by the fourth quarter, India gave it their all in the final 15 minutes of the match and secured four back-to-back goals to seal the tie and win their second international medal of the year. Manmeet Singh finished as Indias highest goalscorer with six goals, while Shardanand Tiwari and Dilraj Singh contributed five goals each. The quarter-final proved to be a defining moment, as the Indian team held their nerve and defeated Belgium 4-3 in a shootout to book a place in the semi-finals. Goalkeeper Prince Deep Singh showed incredible class and valour, making two crucial saves in the shootout to ensure India progressed in the tournament. Unfortunately, India lost 1-5 in the semi-final against champions Germany but responded with character in the 3rd/4th place playoff, producing an incredible comeback against Argentina to secure the bronze medal. Despite being two goals down by the fourth quarter, India gave it their all in the final 15 minutes of the match and secured four back-to-back goals to seal the tie and win their second international medal of the year. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With a Bronze Medal at the FIH Hockey Men's Junior World Cup Tamil Nadu 2025 and a Silver at the 2025 Sultan of Johor Cup, the season not only delivered results but also laid a strong foundation for the future of Indian hockey under Hockey India's vision. Article Source: IANS

Shadab Khan returns to Pakistan T20I squad for Sri Lanka tour

The 27-year-old missed a large part of Pakistans cricket with a shoulder injury since June but regained full fitness after surgery in Britain

Fit India Sundays On Cycle Wraps Up 2025 With High-energy Fitness Festival

Arjuna Awardees Deepika Kumari: Deepika Kumari and Atanu Das, along with other Olympians and Arjuna Awardees from Bengal, gathered at the Sports Authority of India's Kolkata Regional Centre on Sunday for the final Fit India Sundays on Cycle event of 2025. The year-end special edition, the 54th of Fit India Sundays on Cycle, featured a lively, carnival-style celebration with nearly 1,500 participants at the Sports Authority of India centre in Kolkata. The event drew an extraordinary number of enthusiastic cyclists, including athletes, corporate professionals, students, CISF jawans, insurance company employees (the special partners of this edition), and people of all ages, turning the venue into a vibrant festival of movement, music, and community spirit. The mega event in Kolkata was inaugurated by Olympians and Arjuna Awardees Deepika Kumari, Joydeep Karmakar, and Mangal Singh Champia, creating an energetic start to a winter morning focused on fitness and active lifestyles. Also attending were Arjuna Awardees Atanu Das, Rahul Banerjee, Bombayla Devi Laishram, and Susmita Singha Roy. Padma Shri and Arjuna Awardee Deepika emphasised the significance of daily fitness, stating that energy and strength are vital not only for sports but also for personal life. She highlighted that fitness should be maintained every day and not restricted to just one Sunday. We have to do this every day and Im so happy to see over 1500 people join in today, said Deepika. Joydeep emphasised that initiatives such as Sundays on Cycle are encouraging people to reduce excessive screen time and develop more disciplined fitness routines. A transformation starts with our simple behaviours everyone here has turned their attention from phones and have become busy with their cycles, said the former shooter. Everything falls in place when we get disciplined about fitness. It's a good excuse for us to be here today, joining amidst this winter chill. In the last one year, over 20 Lakh people nationwide have joined in, and from now on, this movement will become even bigger, Joydeep, fourth-place finisher at the 2012 Olympics, added. Participants enjoyed a variety of high-energy activities including cycling, Zumba sessions, Bengali folk music, captivating yoga performances, rope-skipping demonstrations, and several other fitness activities that maintained lively energy levels despite the winter chill. Dronacharya Award winner Kuntal Roy expressed gratitude to the Sports Authority of India and the Fit India initiative, emphasising that both mental and physical fitness collectively influence a persons life. I thank SAI and the Fit India program for this initiative. The concept of fitness is the key of life. Mental and physical fitness rules our whole life. Therefore, we have to keep ourselves fit through various programs on fitness like Sundays on Cycle, the former athletics chief coach at SAI, added. During the event, ten local cycling clubs and the state cycling champions were honoured, including Fit India ambassadors and champions such as Kanthi Dutt, Garima Diwakar, Manas Saha, and Raima Majumder. Besides Kolkata, events took place concurrently at 10000 locations nationwide, hosted at Sports Authority of India and Khelo India centres. These included SAI Training centres in Ludhiana, Rajnandgaon, Dharamsala, Kokrajhar, Hazaribagh, Golaghat, and others. In Bikaner, Union Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs, Shri Arjun Ram Meghwal, also attended the cycle rally. During the event, ten local cycling clubs and the state cycling champions were honoured, including Fit India ambassadors and champions such as Kanthi Dutt, Garima Diwakar, Manas Saha, and Raima Majumder. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports, in partnership with the Cycling Federation of India (CFI), Yogasana Bharat, and MY Bharat, organises Fit India Sundays on Cycle. Article Source: IANS

Had It Been 2mm Shorter, It Might Have Been Alright: Smith Gives His Take On Under-fire MCG Pitch

The Melbourne Cricket Ground: Australia stand-in skipper Steve Smith gave his take on the MCG wicket after the Boxing Day Test lasted just two days, with England winning by four wickets. He said that had the 10mm grass been 2mm shorter, it might have made a difference in the match. The Melbourne Cricket Ground pitch came under the scanner after the Boxing Day Ashes Test between Australia and England finished in two days. As many as 36 wickets fell in 142 overs. It lasted for 952 balls, just five more than the series opener in Perth. It obviously offered a lot, 36 wickets in two days, it offered plenty. Had it been either 2mm shorter or a little less thatchy with 10mm, it might have been alright, but Im not a groundsman, so its hard to judge. But it did look like it was going to offer a fair amount, probably a little more than I thought it would. I think the groundsman is always learning, but hes produced some pretty good wickets in the last two years, Smith told SEN Cricket. The MCG has previously been criticised for producing flat wickets that favoured batting, most notably during the 2017 Ashes Test, when only 24 wickets fell over five days. That surface drew widespread criticism, prompting match referee Ranjan Madugalle to issue a poor rating in his official assessment report. I think when I started, we didnt have too many wickets like this, when I started, the MCG used to be run tickets, but thats changed a bit over the last four or five years. Its probably changed more into a better cricket wicket where bat and ball are competing against each other. The games changed in terms of the aggression batters use if 10 years ago you saw Harry Brook come out and bat like that, youd think, Whats going on?!. Brook was the top run scorer for England, and even Travis Head for us in the second innings, it was probably one of those wickets where you had to go a little harder, he added. Fast bowler Mitchell Starc echoed Smiths comments, saying, Nobody wants to see two-day Test matches. I guess you saw it start to play a bit truer in the back end of yesterday. Would a couple of mm off change the game much? Or was it application? Or even just two good attacks? Fast bowler Mitchell Starc echoed Smiths comments, saying, Nobody wants to see two-day Test matches. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Batters got that one last week, and bowlers got one in their favour probably a bit too much this week. I saw last year it was 6 or 7mm, arguably if you make it 8mm, its probably a pretty good surface. Its one to not dwell too much on and move on pretty quick, said Starc. Article Source: IANS

Ashleigh Gardner Up For Australia Captaincy if Got Asked To Do It

Australian Allrounder Ashleigh Gardner: Australian Allrounder Ashleigh Gardner stated she would be willing to accept the captaincy if offered, despite not having ever envisioned herself in such a role. Over the past 12 months, Gardner has made significant progress in her leadership journey, taking on captaincy roles in three different T20 leagues worldwide. She will begin the new year travelling to India to once again lead the Gujarat Giants in the Women's Premier League (WPL). Gardner assumed the captaincy at the franchise from Australian teammate Beth Mooney last season, leading them to their first-ever playoff appearance. She then received another leadership role mid-year in the UK when England captain Natalie Sciver-Brunt stepped back, allowing Gardner to lead the Trent Rockets in The Hundred, where they finished in the top four. The experience empowered her to confidently ask for the role with the Sydney Sixers, knowing she would eventually take it. She then succeeded Ellyse Perry as the captain for WBBL 11. Yeah, I guess so. If I got asked to do it, great, Gardner told cricket.com.au when asked if shed be up for Australias captaincy after Alyssa Healy steps down. You can lead without actually having the 'c' next to your name. That's something that I've really tried to do over the last little period, especially within the spin group. (I have) really tried to lead that pack. I've been there the longest, so (I'm) making sure that I'm sharing knowledge where I can, but also just bouncing ideas off each other. I think cricket's such an individual sport within a team environment. It's so important to be able to utilise those around you, she added. While 22-year-old Phoebe Litchfield's name keeps getting mentioned by former players and pundits, current vice-captain Tahlia McGrath also remains a top contender for the role. (I have) really tried to lead that pack. I've been there the longest, so (I'm) making sure that I'm sharing knowledge where I can, but also just bouncing ideas off each other. I think cricket's such an individual sport within a team environment. It's so important to be able to utilise those around you, she added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gardner, meanwhile, leads every franchise team she currently represents. A sign of her high leadership reputation worldwide is that two current national captains play under her in their country's leagues- Healy in the WBBL and Sciver-Brunt at The Hundred. Article Source: IANS

Australia's Head Backs Struggling Opening Partner Jake Weatherald

Australia's Travis Head Sunday backed under-pressure opening partner Jake Weatherald to come good after an extremely tough start to his Test career in a wild Ashes series. Weatherald made his debut in the opening Test against England in Perth, the latest in a flurry of players looking to fill the giant hole left by David Warner calling it quits two years ago. None have managed to cement the spot, with Weatherald the latest to struggle. The aggressive left-hander has scored 146 runs at 20.85 across eight innings so far, with almost half of that courtesy of his 72 at the second Test in Brisbane. With the likes of Matt Renshaw and Sam Konstas waiting in the wings, he needs a big score at the final Test in Sydney this week to extend his tenure. International cricket is extremely tough, Head told Australian media in Melbourne after they lost the fourth Test by four wickets. The wickets have been challenging across the board the last few years, that's well documented. It's not an excuse and I think he's a good enough cricketer for international cricket and I think he showed a lot of glimpses over his first four Tests. Weatherald is not the only Australian batsman under scrutiny with Cameron Green and Marnus Labuschagne also short of runs. Head was promoted to opener in the second innings at Perth when Usman Khawaja was sidelined with back spasms and has kept the position, cracking two centuries. He said he was content to stay there for the time being. I see myself as this team's opening batter for the series and then we've got a long gap to piece the puzzles together for where the team wants to go, he said. I've felt good at the top, I feel like I've been batting well. After the final Ashes match in Sydney, Australia's next Test series is not until the middle of 2026, when they host Bangladesh. Also Read: Live Cricket Score

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious 2025: A Launchpad For Indias Next Sporting Leap

Prime Minister Narendra Modi: The year 2025 will go down as a truly supercalifragilisticexpialidocious chapter in the journey of Indian sports, marked by sustained excellence, growing belief and an expanding culture of support across disciplines. From Olympic sports to cricket, India witnessed not just improved results but a deeper public connection with sport, signalling a nation steadily embracing a multi-sport identity. Former athletes believe that consistent institutional backing under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has played a significant role in this upward curve. Enhanced infrastructure, structured grassroots programmes and targeted funding have allowed athletes to prepare and perform at a higher level. The impact was evident across boxing, wrestling, shooting, badminton, athletics, chess and several other Olympic disciplines, alongside crickets continued dominance. World Championship medallist Gaurav Bidhuri echoed the optimism surrounding Indian sport while speaking to IANS. India has achieved new heights in all sports. The Modi government is doing really good work for sports. This year was wonderful for Indian sports, and the coming year is even bigger with the Cricket World Cup, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. I am sure India will continue to progress, Bidhuri said. Para athletes, too, continued to receive strong backing from the government in 2025, reinforcing the message that inclusivity remains central to Indias sporting vision. Enhanced funding, exposure and infrastructure ensured that para sports grew not on the margins, but as an integral part of the countrys sporting ecosystem. Their performances and rising visibility inspired millions and underlined Indias commitment to empowering every athlete, regardless of physical limitations. World Championship medallist Gaurav Bidhuri echoed the optimism surrounding Indian sport while speaking to IANS. India has achieved new heights in all sports. The Modi government is doing really good work for sports. This year was wonderful for Indian sports, and the coming year is even bigger with the Cricket World Cup, Asian Games and Commonwealth Games. I am sure India will continue to progress, Bidhuri said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score As 2025 draws to a close, Indian sport stands confident, inclusive and ambitious, poised for even greater milestones on the global stage. Article Source: IANS

MCG Chief Curator 'in State Of Shock' After Two-day Boxing Day Test Pitch Debacle

Boxing Day Test: Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) chief curator Matt Page has expressed disappointment after the fourth Ashes Test at the MCG ended in two days, with the latter saying he was in a state of shock watching the Boxing Day Test end. England won the fourth Ashes Test in less than 32 hours, with 36 wickets falling for 572 runs off 142 overs. England won by four wickets. No player from either team managed a half-century, a feat that had not occurred in a Test match in Australia since 1932. Speaking to the media outside the MCG on Sunday, Page explained the challenges he faced while preparing the pitch and expressed his dismay at the result. Were obviously really disappointed that its been gone two days. Wed rather be in there (today) watching these two great teams going at it, he told reporters. Well learn from this, well get better from it, as we have done over the last seven years with every setback weve faced. Well grow from it, and well ensure that we get it right again next year. Page admitted he was surprised after 20 wickets fell on Day 1. I was in a state of shock after the first day to see everything that happened. 20 wickets in a day, Ive never been involved in a Test match like it, and hopefully never involved in a Test match like it again. It was a rollercoaster ride for two days to see everything unfold. But well learn from it, well grow from it, well get better at it, just like we have over the past years. I have no doubt we will come back bigger, better and stronger than we have done, he said. Melbourne Cricket Club (MCC) chief Stuart Fox also expressed his disappointment on Boxing Day, two days ago, and said the pitch was clearly favouring bowlers and had nothing to offer the batters. This pitch has clearly favoured the bowlers and hasnt given the batters a good opportunity to get set. So were obviously disappointed. What it demonstrates is the really fine margins that Matt and his team are dealing with, Fox said. We had some circumstances leading into the Test that were difficult, particularly around weather. We do understand the impact this has had on, particularly, the fans, and obviously, one of our key stakeholders in Cricket Australia. We dont plan for this to happen; were disappointed, and well move on. Well respond quickly. Matt and his team have done it before and hes produced some good pitches, so Ive got all the faith in the world in Matt and his team, he added. Page also gave the reason for his team having 10 millimetres of grass on the pitch this year, compared with last years seven. We had a lot of hot weather leading into last year, which makes it a lot easier for us to control our moistures leading in. We left more moisture in the top of the pitch last year to provide that contest early up in the game, Page said. We felt that we had the balance really good leading into that game. This year we went in with 10 mils as we knew we were going to get a lot of hot weather at the back end of the game. Were really conscious of flat pitches, we dont want to go back to what we had in 2017 (when it was a road). Our grass is vitally important to what we do. We dont get inconsistent bounce, we dont get deterioration in our pitches. We had a lot of hot weather leading into last year, which makes it a lot easier for us to control our moistures leading in. We left more moisture in the top of the pitch last year to provide that contest early up in the game, Page said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Despite the pitch debacle, the MCC chief said that he stood by Page and his team. We brought Matt on eight years ago because hes considered one of the best in the country, if not the best, and I still believe that, and I always will. Hes done a great job. He and his team worked tirelessly to get this right. You can see hes disappointed today. He carries that responsibility, and my job as a leader is to support people, he said. Article Source: IANS

Weatherald has shown 'glimpses' that he can handle Test cricket

Travis Head believes his opening partner has looked the part and picked out his Brisbane innings as a vital moment of the Ashes series

Laura Harris equals fastest fifty record in women's T20s

She hit a 15-ball half-century for Otago in the Super Smash, equalling the mark set by Marie Kelly for Warwickshire in 2022

Babar, Rizwan, Afridi, Rauf Miss Out As Pakistan Name Squad For Sri Lanka T20Is

Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium: Pakistan have named their T20I squad for next month's three-match series in Sri Lanka, with several key players absent, including Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Mohammad Rizwan, who are participating in Australia's Big Bash League. Additionally, uncapped keeper-batter Khawaja Nafay received his maiden call-up. The 23-year-old right-handed wicketkeeper-batter, has recently been part of the Pakistan Shaheens squad and has featured in 32 T20 matches, scoring at a strike rate of 132.81. All-rounder Shadab Khan has returned to the T20I team as the selectors announced a 15-player squad for the T20I series next month. Salman Ali Agha, who has played a record 34 T20I matches- the most by a Pakistani player this year- will remain captain of the revamped squad. Shadab, 27, who last played for Pakistan in June, had shoulder surgery earlier this year. After a successful rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy, he is now playing in the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia. The Pakistan team will leave for Sri Lanka in the first week of January. All three T20I matches are set to take place at the Rangiri Dambulla International Cricket Stadium (RDICS) in Dambulla on January 7, 9, and 11. The series will give Pakistan a chance to finalise their squad for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup, which is scheduled to be held in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8. All of Pakistan's matches will be played in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Pakistan are placed in Group B for the upcoming World Cup and will face India, Namibia, the Netherlands, and the USA in the first round Pakistan squad for Sri Lanka T20Is: Salman Ali Agha (c), Abdul Samad, Abrar Ahmad, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Nafay, Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jnr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan, Usman Tariq Series Schedule: First T20I, January 7, Dambulla Series Schedule: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Third T20I, January 11, Dambulla Article Source: IANS

Ashes: Webster, Inglis Released From Australia Squad To Play BBL Before Sydney Test

Boxing Day Ashes Test: Australia's reserve all-rounder Beau Webster and wicketkeeper batter Josh Inglis have been released from the squad to play in the Big Bash League ahead of the Sydney Test. After the Boxing Day Ashes Test at the MCG concluded in two days, Australian players have been granted a seven-day break until the New Years contest in Sydney. Webster will be available to play for the Hobart Hurricanes in their BBL match against the Melbourne Renegades on Monday. Inglis, who was dropped for the rapid-fire Boxing Day Test, will also return to the BBL and play for Perth Scorchers in their clash with the Sydney Thunder at ENGIE Stadium on Tuesday, ahead of the fifth and final Ashes Test. After their BBL matches, both players will rejoin the Australia squad in Sydney to prepare for the New Year's Test at the SCG, which starts on January 4. Both players will be available to play for their respective teams before returning to the Australian squad on New Year's Eve to prepare for the Ashes Test at the SCG, Cricket Australia said in a statement. After playing seven Tests this year, Webster was omitted from the Australia XI for the opening Ashes match in Perth and has been unable to get back into the team. But he may be in contention to reclaim his spot in the fifth and final Test due to Cameron Green's repeated failures with the bat during this series. After playing seven Tests this year, Webster was omitted from the Australia XI for the opening Ashes match in Perth and has been unable to get back into the team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Defending champions Hobart are currently second in the Big Bash standings with three wins from four matches, while the Scorchers are coming off consecutive losses and sit fifth on the ladder. Article Source: IANS

Head Backs Struggling Weatherald, Says 'he's Good Enough' To Play International Cricket

Travis Head: Travis Head has backed his opening partner Jake Weatherald has endured a tough start to his Test career, to turn things around. Weatherald, who made his Test debut in the Ashes series opener after a stellar run of form at Sheffield Shield, managed just 146 runs from eight innings. The 31-year-old is expected to retain his spot in the final match at the SCG next week. Weatherald Test future's is facing scrutiny following a glut of low scores, except his half century in the opener. But, Head feels there is plenty for Weatherald to offer and admitted the conditions on Australian pitches across the four matches have been difficult. International cricket is extremely tough. The wickets have been challenging across the board the last few years, that's well-documented. It's not an excuse and I think he's a good enough cricketer for international cricket and I think he showed a lot of glimpses over his first four Tests, Head said. It's not always gonna go your way and there's a lot of guys who look like they have been under the pump with the bat who are the best of our generation. It can be a tough way to start your international career, but I think he's a good enough player to play international cricket, he added. Head further said he is happy to continue in his role as opener as the Ashes series against England heads to Sydney for the final Test of the home summer. He has been a revelation for Australia since his move to the top of the order from No.5 and has already scored two centuries in the role during the Ashes to be the leading run-scorer of the series. I see myself as this team's opening batter for the series and then we've got a long gap between to piece the puzzles together for where the team wants to go, said Head. I've felt good at the top, I feel like I've been batting well. For this series, I feel like I've been able to do a job for the team and it's put us in good positions. I see myself as this team's opening batter for the series and then we've got a long gap between to piece the puzzles together for where the team wants to go, said Head. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There will be challenging times, but at the moment I feel like I'm moving really well, which is putting me in good positions against the new ball, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Lee credits Lillee after inducation to Hall of Fame

The fast bowler was part of one of most dominant sides in cricket history and among the quickest bowlers ever

MCG Pitch Controversy Leaves Cricket Australia Facing Millions After Two-Day Ashes Test

Melbourne Cricket Ground head curator Matt Page said Sunday he was in a state of shock watching the carnage unfold during the two-day fourth Ashes Test which has left Cricket Australia facing millions of dollars in revenue shortfall. Page and his team left 10 millimetres of grass on the wicket, providing fast bowlers with excessive seam movement and bounce which made batting treacherous. Thirty-six wickets tumbled in 142 overs, 20 on the first day, and the game was all over in the evening session of day two as England won by four wickets for their first victory in Australia since January 2011. More than 90,000 fans were expected for day three and many more for days four and five. But with ticket sales having to be refunded, Cricket Australia faces another big financial hit after the Ashes series opener in Perth also ended within two days. Chief executive Todd Greenberg on Sunday estimated that the Melbourne shortfall alone would cost the governing body more than Aus$10 million (US$6.7 million). It is the first time the same series has had multiple two-day Tests for 129 years, dating back to the time when wickets were left uncovered to the weather. I was in a state of shock, Page said. I've never been involved in a Test match like it and hopefully never involved in a Test match like that again. We know this hasn't gone as we planned. We will look at what we need to do to improve. A year ago the grass on the pitch had been shaved down to seven millimetres and produced a thrilling Test that went all the way to the final session on day five as Australia beat India. Page said that cool and wet weather leading into this year's Test combined with forecast heat on days three and four meant he had needed to take a different approach. - Pitch 'a joke' - We're trying to balance that contest between bat and ball throughout, over the four or five days, to provide that captivating Test for all, he said. We left it longer because we knew we were going to get (hot) weather at the back end that we knew we needed our grass (for). International Cricket Council referee Jeff Crowe is yet to deliver his assessment of the pitch,pondering whether to give it an unsatisfactory rating which would see the venue slapped with a demerit point. England captain Ben Stokes and Australia counterpart Steve Smith were both critical of the surface, as were a string of former greats. Being brutally honest, that's not really what you want, Stokes said. Smith added: It was tricky. No one could really get in. When you see 36 wickets across two days, that's probably too much. Former England captain Michael Vaughan labelled the pitch a joke. Greenberg said Cricket Australia would undertake an end-of-season review of the management of Test wickets, conceding that the financial deficits sting. With the way batters are batting, and the way the game is evolving, are the preparation of our wickets in lockstep with that? he told cricket.com.au. If they're not, how do we make sure that they are so that we can try to balance the commercial imperatives versus the performance? Despite the controversy, MCG chief executive Stuart Fox backed Page and his ground staff to continue. We bought Matt on eight years ago because he's considered one of the best in the country, if not the best, Fox said. I still believe that, and I always will. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You can see he's disappointed. He carries that responsibility and my job as a leader is to support people.

Webster, Inglis released for BBL duty before Sydney Test

No one else will play BBL after the two-day MCG Test but a number of players should be available after the Ashes finishes

MCG curator in 'state of shock' as Head offers support after costly two-day finish

Matt Page has been given backing by his boss as the fallout continues for a quickfire Boxing Day Test

Gardner believes Australia still world's best ahead of India series

The team has failed to win the most recent ODI and T20 World Cups but the allrounder doesn't expect dramatic changes

Durban Super Giants vs MI Cape Town, Match 4, SA20 2025-26, Who will win today DSG vs MICT match?

DSG vs MICT, Match 4 , Cricket Tips :The rematch of the tournament's opener of the SA20 2025-26 is all set to be played on Sunday. The current champion, MI Cape Town, will lock horns with Durban Super Giants in the 4th clash. This match will start at 7 PM IST at Kingsmead in Durban. The first game between these two sides was a high-scoring one, which the Super Giants won by 15 runs. There were several contributions for them, and they had an all-round effort. But for MICT, Ryan Rickelton was a standout performer, who slammed a century. But he didn't have any support from others, which cost the team a win. DSG vs MICT: Match Details Date : December 28, 2025 (Sunday) Time : 9:00 PM IST Venue : Kingsmead, Durban DSG vs MICT: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the upcoming game on the Star Sports Networks. Fans can also enjoy the live stream of this game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. DSG vs MICT: Head-to-Head in SA20 Total Matches : 7 MI Cape Town : 1 Durban Super Giants : 5 No-Result : 1 DSG vs MICT: Ground Pitch Report The wicket at Kingsmead is a good batting deck. This venue has hosted some high-scoring games in recent times. The wicket has flattened out and has assisted the batters more. Fast bowlers will have some help early on, but the wicket will get better for batting with time. DSG vs MICT: Possible XIs MI Cape Town : Ryan Rickelton (wk), Rassie van der Dussen, Reeza Hendricks, Nicholas Pooran, George Linde, Jason Smith, Corbin Bosch, Rashid Khan (c), Dwaine Pretorius, Tristan Luus, Trent Boult Durban Super Giants : Devon Conway, Jos Buttler, Kane Williamson, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), Evan Jones, Aiden Markram (c), Eathan Bosch, David Wiese, Kwena Maphaka, Simon Harmer, Noor Ahmad DSG vs MICT: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Devon Conway played a good knock for DSG in the first game and showed his good form. For MICT, Ryan Rickelton, who scored a century, will be a key. Probable Best Bowler Ethan Bosch bowled well in the first game. He uses the cutters more effectively on this kind of wicket. Trent Boult was the one bowler that was economical, despite other bowlers going for runs. So, he will be the one to watch out for for MICT. Today Match Prediction : DSG have the momentum, and this is a home game for them. Hence, we predict DSG to beat MICT on Sunday. DSG vs MICT Match 4, SA20 2025-26, Today Match DSG vs MICT, DSG vs MICT Prediction, DSG vs MICT Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Durban Super Giants vs MI Cape Town 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.

Nortje, Milne consign Paarl Royals to record lows in one-sided contest

Royals were bowled out for 49 and faced the second-biggest defeat in SA20

India's chance to test themselves and their bench strength

With the series against Sri Lanka already won, they could try setting totals instead of chasing them

Ayush Mhatre to lead India at Under-19 World Cup

Suryavanshi will lead India U-19 on their youth-ODI tour to South Africa before the World Cup

Duan Jansen's career-best triggers PC's collapse as JSK start with win

PC lost 5 for 18 after an opening stand of 71, as JSK won at SuperSport Park for the first time

Mhatre To Captain India In U19 World Cup; Sooryavanshi Named Captain For SA Tour

U19 World Cup: Ayush Mhatre has been named as Indias captain for the upcoming Mens Under-19 World Cup, to be held in Zimbabwe and Namibia from January 15 to February 6. But Mhatre and Vihaan Malhotra, also named in the U19 World Cup squad, will not be a part of the pre-tournament 50-over tour of South Africa, to take place from January 3-7, after sustaining wrist injuries. In Mhatres absence, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will lead the side on the tour of South Africa, where they will play all of their three matches at Willowmoore Park in Benoni, while Yuvraj Gohil and Rahul Kumar are added to the squad selected by the Junior Mens Selection Committee. IANS understands that both Mhatre and Malhotra were in Mumbai on Friday for further assessments of their wrist injuries, and their status so far remains unclear. The duo will report to the BCCI Centre of Excellence for further management of their injuries and will join the team for the ICC Mens Under-19 World Cup, said the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) in a statement on Saturday. Fast bowling all-rounder RS Ambrish and leg-spin bowling all-rounder Mohamed Enaan also return to the India U19 team in place of Gohil and Naman Pushpak. The 2026 ICC Mens Under-19 World Cup will feature 16 teams split into four groups, and is followed by a Super Six stage, semi-finals, and the final in Harare. Five-time champions India, who won the trophy in 2000, 2008, 2012, 2018, and 2022, have been drawn in Group A alongside New Zealand, the USA, and Bangladesh. India will open their campaign against the USA on January 15 at Queens Sports Club in Bulawayo, before facing Bangladesh and New Zealand on January 17 and 24 at the same venue. Fast bowling all-rounder RS Ambrish and leg-spin bowling all-rounder Mohamed Enaan also return to the India U19 team in place of Gohil and Naman Pushpak. The 2026 ICC Mens Under-19 World Cup will feature 16 teams split into four groups, and is followed by a Super Six stage, semi-finals, and the final in Harare. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indias squad for SA tour: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi (C), Aaron George (VC), Vedant Trivedi, Abhigyan Kundu (wk), Harvansh Singh (wk), R.S. Ambrish, Kanishk Chouhan, Khilan A. Patel, Mohamed Enaan, Henil Patel, D. Deepesh, Kishan Kumar Singh, Udhav Mohan, Yuvraj Gohil, Rahul Kumar Article Source: IANS

India Women vs Sri Lanka Women, 4th T20I - Who will win today IND-W vs SL-W match?

IND-W vs SL-W , 4th T20I , Cricket Tips :Three games and three dominating performances from India Women to win the ongoing T20I series against Sri Lanka Women. Renuka Singh Thakur and Shafali Verma were the stars with bat and ball. India had a couple of changes, which didn't break their balance. In fact, it strengthens them more. For Sri Lanka, they have tried a few players, but all of them have struggled in these conditions. Even the toss in all three games has gone in their favor. Trailing by 0-3, Sri Lanka will take on India Women in the fourth T20I on Sunday at Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram. IND-W vs SL-W: Match Details Date : December 28, 2025 (Sunday) Time : 7:00 PM IST Venue : Greenfield International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram IND-W vs SL-W: Live Streaming Details The live action of the fourth T20I will be available on the Star Sports channel on the Indian cable TV networks. Fans can also access the live stream of this game on the Jio Hotstar app or website. IND-W vs SL-W: Head-to-Head Total Matches : 29 India : 23 Sri Lanka : 05 No-Result : 01 IND-W vs SL-W: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Thiruvananthapuram is pretty good for batting. But there is enough help for the bowlers to be in the game. Fast bowlers can move the new ball, and the wicket has good bounce. Spinners will get grip and turn in the lateral stage of the game. The toss will be crucial, and chasing can be an edge in these conditions. IND-W vs SL-W: Possible XIs India : Smriti Mandhana, Jemimah Rodrigues, Shafali Verma, Harmanpreet Kaur (c), Richa Ghosh (wk), Deepti Sharma, Vaishnavi Sharma, Amanjot Kaur, Renuka Thakur, Kranti Gaud, Shree Charani Sri Lanka : Hasini Perera, Chamari Athapaththu (c), Harshitha Samarawickrama, Nimesha Madushani, Nilakshika Silva, Kaushani Nuthyangana (wk), Kavisha Dilhari, Imesha Dulani, Malsha Shehani, Inoka Ranaweera, Malki Madara IND-W vs SL-W: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Shafali Verma is on fire, and she has now scored two consecutive half-centuries. For Sri Lanka, Hasini Perera has had some starts, but she needs to play big and long, and she can do it against this Indian bowling unit. Probable Best Bowler Renuka Thakur bowled a fiery opening spell and turned things in favor of the hosts. She has done something similar in the fourth game. For Sri Lanka, Kavisha Dilhari was pretty good in the previous game and was the pick of the bowlers. Today Match Prediction : India have been incredible in all three departments. That is why we predict India to beat Sri Lanka on Sunday. IND-W vs SL-W 4th T20I, Today Match IND-W vs SL-W, IND-W vs SL-W Prediction, IND-W vs SL-W Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between India Women vs Sri Lanka Women 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.

Bryant, Bartlett secure victory for Brisbane Heat

Short had a terrific day with ball and bat but finished on the wrong side of the result

Ashes 2025-26: Pitch At Melbourne Cricket Ground Was Farcical At Times, Says Nasser Hussain

Melbourne Cricket Ground: Former England captain Nasser Hussain described the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) pitch for the fourth Test of the Ashes series as farcical at times, as he and Michael Atherton joined a chorus of fierce criticism after the match ended inside two days. The 10mm of grass left on the pitch resulted in 36 wickets falling in six sessions at the MCG, as England ended a 14-year wait for a Test match victory in Australia with a four-wicket win. England dismissed Australia for 132 in their second innings to set themselves a chase of 175 to win, which they completed after losing six wickets. I don't think the great Shane Warne would have thought that was acceptable, and I don't think it's acceptable not having spin at all, and there being so much movement in the surface. It was farcical at times. That can be thrilling, but there are traditionalists who like the ebbs and flows and the slow build. This was not slow, it was in fast-forward, and we have enough of that whether through T10, T20, The Hundred, said Hussain on Sky Sports, after the game ended. Seamers sent down all 142 overs in the match on a green pitch where no batter reached fifty, and it is expected to cost Cricket Australia (CA) millions of dollars in ticket refunds and revenue losses in terms of merchandise, food, and drink sales. Atherton said the pitch at MCG made for an unsatisfactory spectacle. It wasn't dangerous, and it was fair to both sides in the sense that it didn't change. It was a shoot-out on a difficult pitch. But in terms of spectacle, it's unsatisfactory. There was not an over of spin bowled in the game, and you have 90,000 people who have got tickets for day three, so this is going to cost Cricket Australia an absolute bomb. You also had players saying the only way to play on the pitch is in an unorthodox manner, so for all kinds of reasons, it is an unsatisfactory feeling. Atherton said the pitch at MCG made for an unsatisfactory spectacle. It wasn't dangerous, and it was fair to both sides in the sense that it didn't change. It was a shoot-out on a difficult pitch. But in terms of spectacle, it's unsatisfactory. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England supporters will clearly be thrilled they have seen a win, and so will England players, but people watching will be thinking, 'what kind of Test cricket have I seen?' You come to watch a wide variety of skills, and the game develops over a period of time. You are going to get extreme conditions from time to time, but we have had two now in this series, and I don't think we want to see this too frequently, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Ashes 2025-26: You Don't Want A Game Finishing In Less Than Two Days, Says Stokes On MCG Pitch

Melbourne Cricket Ground: England captain Ben Stokes said the wicket for the fourth Test of the Ashes series at Melbourne would likely attract greater criticism if it had been prepared somewhere else in the world, adding that one wouldnt like to see a game finish in less than two days. The 10mm of grass left on the pitch resulted in 36 wickets falling in six sessions at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), as England ended a 14-year wait for a Test match victory in Australia with a four-wicket win. England dismissed Australia for 132 in their second innings to set themselves a chase of 175 to win, which they completed after losing six wickets. When you go out there, and you're faced with conditions, you've got to crack on and deal with it. But, being brutally honest, that's not really what you want. A Boxing Day Test match, you don't want a game finishing in less than two days. Not ideal, but you can't change it once you start the game, and you've just got to play what's in front of you. But I'm pretty sure if that was somewhere else in the world Stokes told reporters in the post-match press conference. Australias stand-in captain Steve Smith questioned the preparation of the MCG pitch, saying he was not sure why head groundsman Matthew Page had chosen to leave so much grass on the surface. The issue is set to be addressed by Page when he speaks to the media on Sunday. Not ideal, but you can't change it once you start the game, and you've just got to play what's in front of you. But I'm pretty sure if that was somewhere else in the world Stokes told reporters in the post-match press conference. Also Read: Live Cricket Score In an ideal world, every wicket does that, and it's exciting for everyone. Maybe if you took it from 10 (mm) to eight, it would have been a nice, challenging wicket, make it a little bit more even, I suppose. But groundsmen are always learning, and he'll probably take something from that, no doubt, he said. Article Source: IANS

Ireland Announces Squad For Womens T20 World Cup Global Qualifier

T20 World Cup Global Qualifier: Cricket Ireland has announced its 15-player squad for the upcoming ICC Womens T20 World Cup Global Qualifier in Kathmandu, Nepal, from January 18 to February 1, 2026. Gaby Lewis is set to serve as the team captain again, with Orla Prendergast as her deputy. The Irish squad will leave on January 6, 2026, to attend a six-day preparation camp in Dubai, before travelling to Nepal on January 12. The team will participate in two official warm-up matches against Nepal and Zimbabwe. The Qualifier will feature teams from Bangladesh, Ireland, the Netherlands, Namibia, Nepal, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Thailand, the USA, and Zimbabwe. These teams are divided into two groups of five, with Ireland placed in Group A. After all group matches, the top three teams from each group will advance to the Super Six stage, and the top four from this stage will then qualify for the T20 World Cup. Graeme West, Director of High Performance, said, The recent tour to South Africa demonstrated how tough international cricket can be, but also how our group can learn, adapt, and grow from the experience. While that South Africa series was an opportunity to hone skills and identify areas of further improvement required, the upcoming Qualifier will be the time when the squad will need to put that experience into action on the field. Nepali wickets are traditionally low and slow, so we are taking three frontline spinners in the squad as they will likely play a key role in the expected conditions. We have no major injury concerns, with Amy Hunter expected to fully recover from the niggle that kept her out of the 3rd ODI against South Africa recently. Graeme West, Director of High Performance, said, The recent tour to South Africa demonstrated how tough international cricket can be, but also how our group can learn, adapt, and grow from the experience. While that South Africa series was an opportunity to hone skills and identify areas of further improvement required, the upcoming Qualifier will be the time when the squad will need to put that experience into action on the field. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ireland Squad for T20 World Cup Qualifiers: Gaby Lewis (c), Ava Canning, Christina Coulter Reilly, Alana Dalzell, Laura Delany, Sarah Forbes, Amy Hunter, Arlene Kelly, Aimee Maguire, Jane Maguire, Lara McBride, Cara Murray, Leah Paul, ?Orla Prendergast, Rebecca Stokell Article Source: IANS

Josh Tongue succeeds where generations of greats could not

He is the first England bowler named player of the match in an Ashes Test in Australia since Dean Headley in 1998

Very Grateful, All Credit To My Team: Harmanpreet On Becoming Captain With Most Wins In Womens T20Is

Greenfield International Stadium: India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur etched her name into the record books on Friday by becoming the most successful captain in womens T20 internationals, overtaking former Australia leader Meg Lanning. The 36-year-old, however, played down the personal milestone, stressing that the achievement was only possible because of her teammates' collective efforts. Harmanpreet reached the landmark following Indias dominant eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the third T20I of the five-match series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram. With this victory, she now has 77 wins from 130 matches as captain in the format, moving past Lannings tally of 76 wins from 100 games at the helm of Australia. That is something I never thought would happen. As a captain, you always aim to win World Cups or win series, but becoming the most successful T20 captain- that is something which I never thought, but Im very grateful, and I would like to give all credit to my team. Theyve been outstanding. Its because of them that we keep winning. Its just a beginning for all of us. I know the next big thing is coming up (T20 World Cup), and hopefully, well continue the same winning momentum and keep winning for Team India, she said. The record adds another highlight to a standout year for the Indian captain. Earlier this year, in November, she led India to their maiden Womens ODI World Cup title, guiding the team to a memorable 52-run triumph over South Africa in the final at the Dr. D.Y. Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. Reflecting on the latest win against Sri Lanka, Harmanpreet expressed satisfaction with the teams all-round performance, noting that the confidence gained from such displays would be valuable as the Indian side builds toward the Womens T20 World Cup scheduled for June 2026. It was a great series for all of us. That's what we discussed when we got together after the World Cup: we have to raise our standard. Be a little more aggressive in T20, we all know the T20 World Cup is coming up, this is the right time to push ourselves, so really happy with the overall performance, said Harmanpreet. Reflecting on the latest win against Sri Lanka, Harmanpreet expressed satisfaction with the teams all-round performance, noting that the confidence gained from such displays would be valuable as the Indian side builds toward the Womens T20 World Cup scheduled for June 2026. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India and Sri Lanka will next face off on Sunday for the fourth T20I at the same venue in Trivandrum. Article Source: IANS

Dhaka Capitals Assistant Coach Dies After Collapsing Ahead Of BPL Clash

Sylhet International Cricket Stadium: Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Mahbub Ali Zaki died on Saturday after collapsing suddenly at the Sylhet International Cricket Stadium minutes before his team's opening Bangladesh Premier League match was to commence against Rajshahi Warriors. Team staff and medical personnel immediately administered cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) after Zaki, 59, collapsed on the ground during his teams pre-match preparation. He was taken by ambulance to Al Haramain Hospital, where he was declared dead. The match went ahead as per the original schedule, with the players, coaches and match officials observing a minute's silence for Zaki. The Bangladesh Cricket Board deeply mourns the passing of Mahbub Ali Zaki (59), Specialist Pace Bowling Coach of the BCB Game Development Department and Assistant Coach of Dhaka Capitals in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) T20 2026. He passed away today, 27 December 2025, in Sylhet at around 1:00 PM (afternoon). Mahbub Ali Zakis dedication and invaluable contribution to the development of fast bowling and Bangladesh cricket will be remembered with profound respect and gratitude. The Bangladesh Cricket Board extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the entire cricketing fraternity at this time of immense loss, said the BCB in a statement on Saturday. The sudden collapse shocked everyone at the ground, with team officials saying Zaki had not complained of any health issues prior to the incident. Players from several BPL teams, including Sylhet Titans, Noakhali Express, and Chattogram Royals, rushed to the hospital as news of the incident spread in Bangladeshs cricket community. The Bangladesh Cricket Board extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and the entire cricketing fraternity at this time of immense loss, said the BCB in a statement on Saturday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A fast bowler during his playing career, Zaki represented Comilla district in the National Cricket Championship and also played for Abahani Limited, Bangladesh's most decorated club, in the Dhaka Premier League. Article Source: IANS

Did one shot help England win MCG Test?

The early aggression from England's openers set the tone for their chase of 175, and one blow had a significant impact

MCG pitch would unleash 'hell' elsewhere in the world - Ben Stokes

England captain says his feedback to match referee won't be the best after tourists seal victory in two days

Ashes: To Get A Fifer, Get My Name On Honours Board Is A Very Special Feeling, Says Tongue

Melbourne Cricket Ground: England pacer Josh Tongue said to get a match-winning five-wicket haul and have his name registered at the Melbourne Cricket Ground is a very special feeling, as the side got a Test match win in Australia after 15 years. Tongue claimed player of the match honours for picking figures of 5-45 and 2-44, as England beat Australia by four wickets inside two days. It's what dreams are made of. Obviously waking up on boxing day, a few nerves. But to get a fifer and get my name on the honours board, it's a very special feeling. It was with 95,000 people yesterday. The Barmy Army have been unbelievable these past four games. And especially here as well, in front of 95,000 people, it's amazing being in the moment for them. 100%, Tongue said at the conclusion of the game. He also opened up about his injury struggles that had threatened to end his career prematurely. I was in a tough situation with my body and stuff (on his past injuries). I was potentially retiring, but I'm glad that I put in the hard work to get myself back playing cricket. And now playing for England, it's all that I've always wanted to do. When asked about his favourite dismissal, Tongue praised all of his scalps rather than singling out an individual wicket. I'd say all of them. Obviously, coming to the ground on the first day, we knew it was going to be great. It suits us, and how we all bowled out there, making sure we broke our lengths. I thought all of our bowlers did exceptionally well and to be part of a Test match winning team here at the MCG, I can't be happy enough. Young batting all-rounder Jacob Bethell, who top-scored with 40 in the successful chase of 175, said he was thrilled to leave an impact in Englands victory. It was lovely to come in and have an impact, and what matters most is that it contributed to a win. Ive faced him (Starc) a little before, so I kind of knew what to expect, but it definitely feels a lot quicker when its nipping around. Still, a great experience to test yourself in conditions like that. Asked about what changed after the first innings dismissal, Bethell said, First innings, I probably didnt commit enough to my plans and didnt have enough conviction. In the second innings it was pretty clear, especially chasing a tricky total - that we had to be more proactive, put their bowlers off their lengths early, and stick to that approach. Quizzed on playing the reverse scoop first over after tea, Bethell said, It wasnt the best hit, but with the keeper up and third man quite wide, I thought that was the best thing to get back into rhythm quickly and trust my options, so its pretty surreal. Asked about what changed after the first innings dismissal, Bethell said, First innings, I probably didnt commit enough to my plans and didnt have enough conviction. In the second innings it was pretty clear, especially chasing a tricky total - that we had to be more proactive, put their bowlers off their lengths early, and stick to that approach. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think its about taking confidence, learning from the moments that went well, and understanding what worked under pressure. Hopefully, its something I can build on for the rest of my career, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Ujjain Seers Threaten To Disrupt IPL Matches Over Bangladeshi Player

World Arabic Language Day: Religious leaders in Ujjain have issued a stark warning to disrupt Indian Premier League (IPL) cricket matches by damaging pitches if Bangladeshi pacer Mustafizur Rahman is allowed to participate. The threat stems from growing anger over recent violent attacks on Hindus in Bangladesh, particularly two brutal lynching incidents involving blasphemy allegations. The seers, including Mahavir Nath, chief priest of the Rinmukteshwar Mahadev Temple in Ujjain, told reporters that ascetic warriors will storm stadiums to prevent matches involving the Bangladeshi player. They accuse authorities of ignoring the persecution of Hindus in Bangladesh while permitting its cricketers to play in India. Other seer organisations have also issued the same warning. The controversy intensified after Kolkata Knight Riders acquired Mustafizur Rahman, the only Bangladeshi player picked in the recent IPL auction, for Rs 9.20 crore. Social media campaigns have called for boycotting KKR, with users labelling it a slap on every Hindu's face amid reports of minority violence. The incidents in Bangladesh have fuelled the outrage. On December 18, in Bhaluka Upazila, Mymensingh district, 27-year-old Hindu garment factory worker Dipu Chandra Das was accused by Muslim co-workers of allegedly making derogatory remarks about Prophet Muhammad during an event marking World Arabic Language Day. He was dragged from his workplace at Pioneer Knit Composite Factory, brutally beaten by a mob, hanged from a tree, and his body set on fire beside a highway. Investigations found no direct evidence of blasphemy, with the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) arresting several individuals. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus condemned the act but described it as isolated, amid broader unrest following the death of a prominent youth leader. Days later, on December 24, another Hindu man, 29-year-old Amrit Mondal (alias Samrat or Amit Mondal), was lynched in Rajbari's Pangsha sub-district over allegations of extortion. Villagers attacked him, and though police rescued him in critical condition, he succumbed at the hospital. Investigations found no direct evidence of blasphemy, with the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) arresting several individuals. The interim government led by Muhammad Yunus condemned the act but described it as isolated, amid broader unrest following the death of a prominent youth leader. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He called for deporting Bangladeshi infiltrators in India and urged strong measures to protect minorities abroad, stating, If Hindus there are not safe, they should be given refuge here. These developments have strained India-Bangladesh ties, with India expressing grave concern over documented violence against minorities. Hindu nationalist groups in India have held protests, while Bangladesh authorities have made arrests in the cases. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: 50 Or 60 More Runs Across Both Innings Could Have Changed The Result, Says Smith

Melbourne Cricket Ground: Australias stand-in captain Steve Smith admitted that an extra 50 or 60 runs across both innings might have altered the outcome of the fourth Ashes Test, which England won by four wickets to seal their first victory in the country since 2011. England chased down 175 to beat Australia by four wickets inside two days at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The tourists bundled out the hosts for 132, with Brydon Carse taking 4-34 and captain Ben Stokes picking up 3-24, before completing the chase in 32.2 overs. Despite the win for England, Australia hold an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series. Tricky one. Obviously a very quick game! Had we got 50 or 60 more across both innings then we might have been there at the end but credit to England, they came out today, bowled really well this morning and didn't let us get away. Then the way they started with the bat, they were very aggressive, got a few away and probably softened our ball a bit - it didn't offer as much from that point, said Smith at the conclusion of the game. Despite the win for England, Australia hold an unassailable 3-1 lead in the series. Tricky one. Obviously a very quick game! Had we got 50 or 60 more across both innings then we might have been there at the end but credit to England, they came out today, bowled really well this morning and didn't let us get away. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think (it was in favour of the bowlers) a little bit too much. It was tricky, no-one could really get in. When you see 36 wickets across two days, that's probably too much. Maybe taking a bit of grass off or easing the preparation slightly wouldve helped. But thats how it was, and we just had to adapt, concluded Smith. Article Source: IANS

Stokes pleased to end Australia drought, but circumstances 'not ideal'

England captain praises fans for sticking with team through thick and thin, as they seal four-wicket win

Ashes: To Come Out On The Right Side Of The Result Feels Really Special, Says Stokes

Melbourne Cricket Ground: England captain Ben Stokes said it felt eally special to be on the winning side in the fourth Ashes Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, and lauded his team for maintaining their focus and intensity. On Saturday, England ended a 14-year wait for a Test match victory in Australia with a four-wicket win on day twos play in Melbourne, a result that capped an intense turnaround after three successive defeats and mounting scrutiny over the teams preparation, as well as their conduct during a mid-series break in Noosa. Its been a massive effort from everyone, and to come out on the right side of the result feels really special. Hopefully it means a lot. We play for a lot of people - not just ourselves. The support we get, wherever we go in the world, is incredible. The noise, the chants, the constant backing - the lads out in the middle hear it, feel it, and thrive off it. I know a lot of our fans will be buzzing right now, said Stokes at the conclusion of the game. England dismissed Australia for 132 in their second innings to set themselves a chase of 175 to win, which they completed after losing six wickets. Definitely very satisfying. There was a fair bit going on in the build-up to this match, a lot being thrown our way. For the lads to come out, stay focused, and perform the way they did says a lot about the character in this team. Huge credit to the players, support staff, and management for keeping everyone locked in on what mattered - playing good cricket. We knew it wasnt going to be a straightforward (chase). The pitch had plenty in it, and the bowlers were always in the game. The message was to stay positive, not let the bowlers settle, and make them keep running in and hitting those tough areas. I thought the way we balanced intent with discipline was brilliant. It took courage, but the lads handled it superbly, elaborated Stokes. Huge credit to the players, support staff, and management for keeping everyone locked in on what mattered - playing good cricket. We knew it wasnt going to be a straightforward (chase). The pitch had plenty in it, and the bowlers were always in the game. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Every time hes pulled on an England shirt, hes given everything. Bethell as well - the partnership he helped build in tricky conditions was really important. Seeing younger players stand up in moments like this is fantastic, concluded Stokes. Article Source: IANS

NZ, SA Close In Gap As Australia Remain On Top Of WTC Points Table

ICC World Test Championship: England registered a Boxing Day comeback win at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Saturday, clinching a famous four-wicket victory over Australia to register their first Test win on Australian soil in 19 matches and breathe new life into the ICC World Test Championship (WTC) 20252027 race. The result of the Test match, although Australia had already secured a 3-0 Ashes series victory before the game started, was a boost for Ben Stokes and his team. More importantly, it ended Australia's unbeaten record in the current WTC cycle, giving the other competitors a chance to catch up. Before the Melbourne Test match, Australia were on top of the World Test Championship table with a perfect 100% points percentage (PCT). Following their defeat in the Melbourne Test, their points percentage dropped to 85.71%, but they remain comfortably at the top. In addition, this loss has allowed New Zealand and South Africa to close the gap, with 77.78% and 75%, respectively, placing them second and third. England were awarded 12 additional points for this Test match, but they will need to put in a great deal of effort to qualify for the final. Despite this win, England's PCT is only 35.18%, placing them in seventh on the World Test Championship table and far behind the top five teams. Nevertheless, the victory has given England momentum and belief that they can improve their position over the remainder of the WTC cycle. Before the Melbourne Test match, Australia were on top of the World Test Championship table with a perfect 100% points percentage (PCT). Following their defeat in the Melbourne Test, their points percentage dropped to 85.71%, but they remain comfortably at the top. In addition, this loss has allowed New Zealand and South Africa to close the gap, with 77.78% and 75%, respectively, placing them second and third. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Ashes Series will travel to the Sydney Cricket Ground for the fifth and final Test Match on January 4. Australia will attempt to regain control of both the series and their WTC campaign, while England will strive to build on the momentum from their performance in Melbourne and enhance their position in the WTC Championship standings. Article Source: IANS

Dhaka Capitals assistant coach Zaki collapses before match

He was given CPR before an ambulance took him to the hospital

Ashes: England Bag First Test Win On Australian Soil Since 2011

Melbourne Cricket Ground: England ended an almost 15-year-long wait with a spirited victory on Australian soil in the fourth Ashes Test, defeating the hosts by four wickets in a frenetic Boxing Day contest here at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. While the Ashes remain out of reach, Ben Stokes side produced a statement performance, sealing the match in just 32.2 overs on Day 2. The Test was wrapped up inside two days on a surface that heavily favoured the fast bowlers, with not a single over delivered by a spinner across the match. England set the tone by opting to bowl first on a lively pitch with a visible grass covering, a decision that paid immediate dividends. Josh Tongue led the charge with a five-wicket haul as Australia were dismissed for 152 in their first innings. The hosts responded emphatically. England were skittled for 110, handing Australia a 42-run lead, with Michael Neser claiming four wickets and Scott Boland three. By stumps on Day 1, Australia appeared firmly in control, finishing with all 10 wickets intact thanks to a steady stand between Travis Head and nightwatchman Boland. Australia resumed day two with a healthy advantage, but momentum shifted quickly. Head looked dangerous once again, moving fluently to 46 before Brydon Carse shattered his stumps, triggering a collapse. England surged through the remaining wickets, dismissing Australia for 132, with stand-in captain Steve Smith left unbeaten on 24. The visitors, as a result, set themselves a target of 175 runs. Englands response was decisive. Ben Duckett and Zak Crawley launched an ultra-aggressive chase, treating the pursuit like a limited-overs contest. Duckett struck 34 from 26 balls before being undone by a pinpoint yorker from Mitchell Starc, while Crawley contributed a brisk 37. Although Australia briefly fought back by removing Joe Root and Stokes in quick succession, the chase never drifted off course. Jacob Bethells composed 40, supported by Harry Brooks unbeaten 18, carried England home with ease. Englands most recent Test victory in Australia came in January 2011 at the Sydney Cricket Ground. This win also marks Joe Roots first Test win in Australia after 18 matches, and Ben Stokes first in 13 games. Although Australia briefly fought back by removing Joe Root and Stokes in quick succession, the chase never drifted off course. Jacob Bethells composed 40, supported by Harry Brooks unbeaten 18, carried England home with ease. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Australia 152 & 132 (Travis Head 46, Steven Smith 24; Brydon Carse 4-34, Ben Stokes 3-24) lost to England 110 & 178/6 (Jacob Bethell 40, Zak Crawley 37; Scott Boland 2-29, Jhye Richardson 2-22) by four wickets. Article Source: IANS

Wobbly England register first Test win in Australia in 15 years

In a second two-day finish this Ashes, Bethell scored 40 in England's chase of 175

Ashes: Vaughan Calls MCG Pitch A joke After 26 Wickets Fall Inside 98 Overs During Fourth Test

Melbourne Cricket Ground: Former England captain Michael Vaughan took a dig at the Melbourne Cricket Ground surface after wickets fell like ninepins and bowlers dominated the opening stages of the fourth Ashes Test against Australia. A staggering 20 wickets fell on the opening day after England chose to bowl first, with Australia dismissed for 152. The visitors fared little better, collapsing to 110 in reply and conceding a 42-run deficit. The frenetic pace of the match continued into day two, as England skittled Australia for 132 in their second innings, leaving themselves a target of 175 to claim their first victory of the series. The sheer volume of dismissals marked a rare moment in Australian cricket, with day one witnessing 20 wickets falling for the first time in 74 years in a Test played in the country. Vaughan voiced his frustration on social media, writing on X, This pitch is a joke .. This is selling the game short .. The players / Broadcasters and more importantly the fans .. 26 wickets in 98 overs !!!!! #Ashes. He is not alone in his criticism. Former England batter Kevin Pietersen had earlier highlighted what he sees as a double standard, noting that pitches that attract spin-friendly conditions are often questioned, while seam-dominated surfaces escape similar scrutiny. India always gets hammered when wickets fall like crazy on day 1 of a Test and so I hope that Australia gets the same scrutiny! Fair is fair! Pietersen wrote on X on Friday. He is not alone in his criticism. Former England batter Kevin Pietersen had earlier highlighted what he sees as a double standard, noting that pitches that attract spin-friendly conditions are often questioned, while seam-dominated surfaces escape similar scrutiny. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Earlier, Australias second innings wrapped up shortly after lunch, with Travis Heads 46 the lone resistance as Carse finished with figures of 4 for 34. Article Source: IANS

'Have Taken Four Wickets Whenever Ive Played Here', Says Renuka After Match-winning Spell Vs SL

Greenfield International Stadium: India pacer Renuka Singh marked her return to T20I cricket in emphatic fashion, delivering a match-winning spell as India clinched the five-match series against Sri Lanka with a commanding eight-wicket victory in the third T20I here at the Greenfield International Stadium. Playing her first T20I in over a year, Renuka finished with outstanding figures of 4/21 from four overs, dismantling the Sri Lankan batting line-up and earning the Player of the Match award. The right-arm pacer missed Indias tour of England earlier this year and was rested for the opening two matches of the series as the team experimented with different bowling combinations. With the ICC Womens T20 World Cup less than six months away, Renukas performance served as a timely reminder of her importance to Indias plans. My performance was good. I have played T20 cricket for a long time, so I am happy. Kerala is my lucky place. I have also played Under-19 cricket here. Whenever I have played, I have taken four wickets. I was excited to come to Kerala. It is my lucky ground, she said in the post-match press conference. She also highlighted the teams broader focus as preparations intensify for the global event. The bowling department is doing well. The combination of pacers and spinners is good. We are trying to find a better combination for the World Cup. We are trying to keep our standards high so that we can win as many matches as possible. Our motto is to take women's cricket to the next level. Renuka has been Indias leading wicket-taker at the last two editions of the Womens T20 World Cup, picking up seven wickets in both the 2023 and 2024 tournaments, though India fell short of reaching the final on both occasions. Buoyed by their maiden ICC Womens Cricket World Cup triumph at home earlier this year, the team is now eyeing a historic first T20 World Cup title in England and Wales in 2026. According to Renuka, all planning is firmly centred on the upcoming T20 World Cup, which begins on June 12. She revealed she has been working extensively on adding variations to her bowling. I go to the NCA (National Cricket Academy) to prepare for any tournament because it works for me. I can do some extra work on my bowling and fitness, and that helps me execute better. According to Renuka, all planning is firmly centred on the upcoming T20 World Cup, which begins on June 12. She revealed she has been working extensively on adding variations to her bowling. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India have been placed in Group A for next years T20 World Cup, alongside Australia, Pakistan, South Africa and two teams yet to qualify from the qualifiers. Article Source: IANS

PBKS Do Not Have Enough Backup For Yuzvendra Chahal, Says Abhinav Mukund

Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Former India cricketer Abhinav Mukund believes the Punjab Kings do not have enough backup for off-spinner Yuzvendra Chahal ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026. Punjab Kings strengthened their squad with key domestic picks like Vishnu Vinod and Praveen Dubey, along with Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly for middle-order balance in the mini auction. Mukund praised the teams smart additions while noting areas like spin depth that need attention. Analysing the Punjab Kings balanced approach at the table, Mukund said, Punjab Kings didnt need much heading into the auction, having already invested heavily earlier. The only concern is Yuzvendra Chahal not featuring in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy so its unclear if they have enough backup for him. Theyve added Pravin Dubey, a leg-spinner from Karnataka, and Cooper Connolly, whos an exciting left-handed all-rounder capable of batting anywhere from three to five. That versatility definitely adds value to their middle order, Mukund said on JioStar. Punjab Kings strengthened their squad with key domestic picks like Vishnu Vinod and Praveen Dubey, along with Australian all-rounder Cooper Connolly for middle-order balance in the mini auction. Mukund praised the teams smart additions while noting areas like spin depth that need attention. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Former India cricketer Robin Uthappa highlighted Vishnu Vinod as one of Punjab Kings most promising additions. Vishnu Vinod is a really exciting signing for Punjab Kings, and I genuinely hope he gets regular opportunities in the IPL. Weve only seen glimpses of his ability during his stint with Mumbai Indians, but hes got phenomenal talent. His inclusion adds depth to the middle order and even offers a potential fast-bowling option. There's a lot of value he can bring to this setup. Article Source: IANS

Total Magic': Harmanpreet Kaur After Deepti Achieves Historic Feat In World Cricket

Greenfield International Stadium: Indias star all-rounder Deepti Sharma made history in global cricket by becoming the first player in the world, across mens and womens T20I cricket, to score 1000 runs and take 150 wickets, and skipper Harmanpreet Kaur was all praise as she called the accomplishment total magic. Deepti achieved the feat during the third T20I against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday, highlighting her stature as one of the most versatile white-ball cricketers in the sport. Sharing a graphic of the all-rounder on her Instagram story, Harmanpreet wrote, This is total magic. Well done Deepti. With a decisive three-wicket spell, Deepti became the joint-highest wicket-taker in womens T20I history, tying with Australias Megan Schutt at 151 wickets. Sri Lankas Kavisha Dilhari reached her landmark 150th scalp as the 28-year-old dismissed the Lankan batter in the 14th over. India sealed an unassailable 30 series lead with a dominant eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the third T20I at the Greenfield International Stadium. Shafali Verma starred with an unbeaten 79 off 42 balls, smashing 11 fours and three sixes to chase down Lankas modest total with 6.4 overs to spare. Earlier, Indias bowlers set up the victory as Renuka Singh Thakur (4/21) and Deepti (3/18) restricted the visitors to 112/7. India lost Smriti Mandhana early for one and later Jemimah Rodrigues, both dismissed by Dilhari, but Shafali remained unfazed. After a cautious start, she launched a fierce assault on the Sri Lankan attack, reaching her fifty in just 24 balls. Captain Harmanpreet added a steady 21 not out as India completed another convincing victory and their fourth straight T20I series win over Sri Lanka. India sealed an unassailable 30 series lead with a dominant eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the third T20I at the Greenfield International Stadium. Shafali Verma starred with an unbeaten 79 off 42 balls, smashing 11 fours and three sixes to chase down Lankas modest total with 6.4 overs to spare. Earlier, Indias bowlers set up the victory as Renuka Singh Thakur (4/21) and Deepti (3/18) restricted the visitors to 112/7. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She also made a significant impact in the Women's Premier League (WPL) auction, where UP Warriorz (UPW) acquired her for Rs 3.2 crore, the second-highest bid in league history. Article Source: IANS

'Short Tests Are Bad For Business': CA CEO Greenberg After 20-wicket Opening Day At MCG

CA CEO Greenberg: Cricket Australia chief executive officer Todd Greenberg voiced his concerns over extending the duration of a Test match from five days to two, which can lead to continued excitement due to the number of wickets taken; however, Greenberg said that wicket-laden days can lead to the long-term demise of Tests as a format. In light of the two-day test match that kicked off the Ashes series in Perth, there is now also a realistic possibility that we may see a third quick Test match during the Boxing Day Test match at the MCG, especially considering that 20 wickets fell in an action-packed first day at this years Test match. However, a record 94,000 people crammed into the MCG on an extremely entertaining day, which will remain in the memories of all who attended for many years to come, according to Greenberg. I didnt sleep well last night, put it that way, Greenberg told SEN Cricket. It was an amazing day of Test cricket, so for that record number of people who were here, boy, theyve had an experience. But our challenge is to make sure we can continue those experiences day after day. Thats the challenge for all of us. After being asked if the 20 wickets that fell in one day were too many, Greenberg said, No, because any time you have that many wickets falling in a Test match, it pushes the game towards a shorter format, which Cricket Australia does not wish to see, as it is detrimental to both the game and the business. Short answer for that in my opinion is yes, he said. As mesmerising and fascinating and enjoyable as it was to watch as a fan, we want Test cricket clearly to go for longer. A simple phrase Id use is short Tests are bad for business. I cant be much more blunt than that. Greenberg also indicated that there are still areas where the two competing sides with bat and ball must be balanced. He added that the conditions on the opening day provided an advantage to the bowlers, and he believes that the pitch alone is not responsible for this. A simple phrase Id use is short Tests are bad for business. I cant be much more blunt than that. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The problem continued on Day 2, when the first session saw another 6 wickets fall, increasing the likelihood of a Test match being completed well before its actual scheduled conclusion. Article Source: IANS

'Short Tests are bad for business' - CA CEO hints at intervening on pitches

Todd Greenberg admitted to having a sleepless night with another two-day Test likely to incur huge losses

Atkinson leaves field clutching hamstring in latest England injury blow

Fast bowler reports soreness early on second day at MCG after early wicket of Scott Boland

David's hamstring injury a concern for Australia's T20 World Cup hopes

David said he would wait and see after he felt a little bit of something while running between the wickets

Paarl Royals vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape, Match 3, SA20 2025-26, Who will win today PR vs SECmatch?

PR vs SEC, Match 3 , Cricket Tips :The two-time SA20 winner Sunrisers Eastern Cape are set to play their first game of the fourth edition. They came very close to winning a hat-trick of the title but lost the final of the third edition against MI Cape Town. The Eastern Cape will lock horns with Paarl Royals on Saturday. This game will start at 9 PM IST at Boland Park in Paarl. The two sides will start their tournament with this game. The Royals finished third last season, after losing Qualifier 2 against the Eastern Cape. So, they must have some memories from that game. On the other hand, Tristan Stubbs is all set to make his SA20 captaincy debut for the Eastern Cape, replacing Aiden Markram. PR vs SEC: Match Details Date : December 27, 2025 (Saturday) Time : 9 PM IST Venue : Boland Park, Paarl PR vs SEC: Live Streaming Details The live action of the PR vs SEC game on Saturday will be televised on Star Sports Networks. Fans can access the live stream on the Jio Hotstar streaming platform. PR vs SEC: Head-to-Head in SA20 Total Matches : 7 Paarl Royals : 2 Sunrisers Eastern Cape : 5 No-Result : 0 PR vs SEC: Ground Pitch Report Boland Park offers a balanced wicket, which has assistance for both batters and bowlers. For fast bowlers, there will be swing when the ball is new, and the bounce will be throughout the game. But with modern-day batters like bounce on the ball, there is opportunity for them to score. PR vs SEC: Possible XIs Paarl Royals : Lhuan-dre Pretorius (wk), Rubin Hermann, David Miller (c), Keagan lion Cachet, Kyle Verreynne (wk), Delano Potgieter, Gudakesh Motie, Thomas Rew, Bjorn Fortuin, Hardus Viljoen, Ottneil Baartman Sunrisers Eastern Cape : Quinton de Kock, Matthew Breetzke (wk), Jonny Bairstow, Tristan Stubbs (c), Pat Kruger, Mitchell van Buuren, Marco Jansen, Senuran Muthusamy, Adam Milne, Lutho Simpala, Anrich Nortje PR vs SEC: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Lhuan-dre Pretorius got recogination by doing well in SA20, and he is a great batter to have at the top of the order. For the Eastern Cape, De Kock is coming off a good series in India. Probable Best Bowler Ottneil Baartman did well in the T20I series in India and will be a key for the Royals. Marco Jansen has been bowling in great rhythm across formats, and he will be the one to watch out for. Today Match Prediction : The Eastern Cape look slightly weaker with the ball. But their strong batting strength is the reason we predict them to beat Paarl Royals on Saturday. PR vs SEC Match 3, SA20 2025-26, Today Match PR vs SEC, PR vs SEC Prediction, PR vs SEC Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Paarl Royals vs Sunrisers Eastern Cape 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.

Pretoria Capitals vs Joburg Super Kings, Match 2, SA20 2025-26, Who will win today PC vs JSK match?

PC vs JSK, Match 2 , Cricket Tips :The first double-header of the SA20 2025-26 will be hosted on this weekend. On Saturday, two games will take the intensity level to another bar. Already the first game of the tournament has produced a high-scoring clash. Now, the second game will be held at SuperSport Park in Centurion on Friday. This match will start at 4:30 PM IST. These two sides will aim to start the campaign with a win. The Super Kings finished fourth last season, whereas the Capitals finished fifth on the table. Keshav Maharaj has joined the Capitals and will lead them. Faf du Plessis will be the tried and tested captain for the Super Kings. PC vs JSK: Match Details Date : December 27, 2025 (Saturday) Time : 4:30 PM IST Venue : SuperSport Park, Centurion PC vs JSK: Live Streaming Details To watch the second game on Saturday, fans can tune into the Star Sports Network. Fans can also enjoy the live stream on the Jio Hotstar app or website. PC vs JSK: Head-to-Head in SA20 Total Matches : 6 Pretoria Capitals : 2 Joburg Super Kings : 2 No-Result : 2 PC vs JSK: Ground Pitch Report The SuperSport Park is an excellent batting deck. This venue is known to be a high-scoring deck, and the ball flies here. It has good bounce, and batters can ride the bounce and play their shots. Fast bowlers can go for a change of pace, but we can see a high-scoring thriller here. PC vs JSK: Possible XIs Pretoria Capitals : Shai Hope, Will Smeed, Dewald Brevis, Sherfane Rutherford, Roston Chase, Codi Yusuf, Wihan Lubbe, Daniel Smith (wk), Lungi Ngidi, Keshav Maharaj (c), Lizaad Williams Joburg Super King : Shubham Ranjane, Faf du Plessis (c), Steve Stolk, Rille Rossouw, Donovan Ferreira, Wiaan Mulder, Dian Forrester, Prenelan Subrayen, Imran Tahir, Akeal Hosein, Nandre Burger PC vs JSK: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Faf du Plessis will be the backbone of the Super Kings and the one to watch out for. For the Capitals, Dewald Brevis will be the key with the bat. Probable Best Bowler Lungi Ngidi has been in excellent form, and he will be a hard bowler to face. For the Super Kings, Imran Tahir is the one who can take wickets in the middle and contain the batters. Today Match Prediction : After looking at these two squads, Joburg Super Kings are looking in better shape. Hence, we predict the Super Kings to win this game. PC vs JSK Match 2, SA20 2025-26, Today Match PC vs JSK, PC vs JSK Prediction, PC vs JSK Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between Pretoria Capitals vs Joburg Super Kings 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.

Rickelton 113 in vain as DSG hang on in high-scoring thriller against MICT

Led by Devon Conway's 64, DSG posted 232, and MICT fell just 15 short in season opener

Delhi Capitals Academy Expands Global Footprint With Launch In Canada.

Delhi Capitals Sajid Mahmood Cricket: Continuing its steady expansion, Delhi Capitals Cricket Academy has entered North America with the launch of its first academy in Canada, marking a significant milestone in the franchises growing international footprint. Based in Mississauga, the Delhi Capitals Cricket Academy in Ontario will extend the franchises structured, high-performance training philosophy to one of the fastest-growing cricket regions in the world. The launch reinforces Delhi Capitals long-term commitment to grassroots development and its vision of building a globally connected player pathway. The academy will follow Delhi Capitals established coaching curriculum and technical framework, designed to nurture young talent through structured training, performance monitoring, and long-term player development. Trial sessions and talent identification programmes are scheduled for January 2026, with full training programmes to commence thereafter. With this addition, Delhi Capitals now strengthens its overseas academy network, following its successful presence in the United Kingdom through the Delhi Capitals Sajid Mahmood Cricket Academy in London. The North America expansion represents the franchises second international hub, underscoring its ambition to create access to elite coaching environments beyond India. Speaking on the expansion, Delhi Capitals CEO Sunil Gupta said, The launch of the Delhi Capitals Cricket Academy in Canada is a key step in building a strong and sustainable global development ecosystem. North America is witnessing rapid growth in cricket participation and infrastructure, and this academy allows us to extend our coaching philosophy and performance frameworks to aspiring players in the region. Our focus remains on creating clear pathways, sharing best practices, and supporting young cricketers as they aim to compete at the highest level. Derek Perera, Founder and Director, Ontario Cricket Academy, added, Ontario Cricket Academy has always believed in building players the right way through structure, discipline, and long-term development. For over 20 years, our pathway has produced more Canadian representatives than any other academy, and this partnership with Delhi Capitals is a natural progression of that legacy. As cricket in North America becomes increasingly professional, this collaboration allows us to open new doors for our players by connecting Canadian talent with global standards, elite environments, and real opportunities. We are excited about what this means not just for OCA, but for the future of Canadian cricket as a whole. Speaking on the expansion, Delhi Capitals CEO Sunil Gupta said, The launch of the Delhi Capitals Cricket Academy in Canada is a key step in building a strong and sustainable global development ecosystem. North America is witnessing rapid growth in cricket participation and infrastructure, and this academy allows us to extend our coaching philosophy and performance frameworks to aspiring players in the region. Our focus remains on creating clear pathways, sharing best practices, and supporting young cricketers as they aim to compete at the highest level. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Delhi Capitals team participates in both the Indian Premier League (IPL) and the Women's Premier League (WPL). Co-owned by the GMR Group and the JSW Group, Delhi Capitals was established in 2008 as Delhi Daredevils before embracing a new avatar in 2019. In 2020, the team reached its first-ever final. In 2023, Delhi Capitals became one of the five founding teams to participate in the Womens Premier League. The team has reached the final in all three editions of the tournament so far, finishing as runners-up each time. Article Source: IANS

3rd T20I: Renuka Singh Thakur Aims To Take A Rare Five-for After Picking A Four-wicket Haul

Renuka Singh Thakur: India Women's pacer Renuka Singh Thakur said she was delighted with her four-wicket haul coming in the eight-wicket win in the third T20I against Sri Lanka Women, but admitted she was still chasing the elusive five-wicket haul in the shortest format. In what was the first international womens game at the Greenfield International Stadium, Renuka picked 4-21 on her return to the T20I team as India restricted Sri Lanka to 112/7. Very happy. I never get five wickets; it's always four. So maybe I'll have to work harder to get a five-for as they are rare for me. I go to the NCA (CoE) to prepare for any tournament because it works for me. I can do some extra work on my bowling and fitness, and that helps me execute better, said Renuka in the post-match presentation ceremony. Renuka now holds the record for most four-wicket hauls by an Indian bowler in womens T20Is with four, ahead of leg-spinner Poonam Yadavs three. Her 4-21 ranks as the second-best figures by an Indian bowler in T20Is, and is only behind Daina Davids 4-12 at Basseterre during the 2010 T20 World Cup. Harmanpreet was fully motivating me to get 5, as she also knows that I get only four wickets every time. I remember Jhulan (Goswami) di's words when she said to take five wickets, you need to work harder. So that's what I was thinking - to work harder to get the 5 wickets, added Renuka. Renuka now holds the record for most four-wicket hauls by an Indian bowler in womens T20Is with four, ahead of leg-spinner Poonam Yadavs three. Her 4-21 ranks as the second-best figures by an Indian bowler in T20Is, and is only behind Daina Davids 4-12 at Basseterre during the 2010 T20 World Cup. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I wanted to during this series, so that when I play in the future against Australia or the World Cup, there shouldn't be any doubt about my slower one or anything else, so that I can mentally prepare myself. If my first over doesn't go well, I think about what I need to do and what to bowl on this wicket when the captain throws the ball next. Article Source: IANS

3rd T20I: Renuka, Deepti, Shafali Star As India Women Clinch Series With 8-wicket Win Over Sri Lanka (ld)

After Renuka Singh Thakur: In-form opener Shafali Verma smashed an unbeaten 79 off 42 balls to power India to an eight-wicket victory over Sri Lanka in the third T20I of the five-match series and secure an unassailable 3-0 series lead at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday. After Renuka Singh Thakur's 4-21 and Deepti Sharma's 3-18 restricted Sri Lanka to 112/7, Shafali tore apart the bowling attack with a splendid display of strokeplay -- smashing 11 fours and three sixes in a blistering knock that guided India home with 6.4 overs to spare. Despite losing opening partner Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues to Kavisha Dilhari, Shafali dominated from the outset to ensure India got another convincing win. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed with a composed knock of 21 not out, as India got their fourth consecutive T20I series win over Sri Lanka. Shafali started cautiously by playing three dot balls in the first over, but then unleashed a brutal assault on the Sri Lankan bowlers. Her show began by lofting and pulling Malsha Shehani for six and four, before bringing out the same shots against Nimesha Madushani for a brace of boundaries. But India suffered a big blow when vice-captain Smriti Mandhana was trapped lbw by off-spinner Kavisha Dilhari for just one. Attempting a sweep, Mandhana missed the delivery as the ball spun away and struck her front pad, with ball-tracking confirming it would crash into the leg stump. The left-hander reviewed immediately but had to depart for another low score in the series, leaving Sri Lanka buoyant. With Jemimah struggling to time the ball after surviving an lbw appeal on her first ball, Shafali Verma was magnificent in driving, pulling, and lofting, before getting her fifty in just 24 balls with a drive past mid-on off Malki Madara. Kavisha returned to claim Jemimahs wicket when she attempted a sweep off a full delivery tossed up outside off-stump, but the ball took an under-edge that rattled the three sticks. With Harmanpreet Kaur getting her boundaries via leg-side shots, Shafali muscled three ruthless boundaries before finishing off the chase with a lofted four to give India another dominant victory. Previously, on return to the T20I side, Renuka and Deepti shared seven wickets between themselves as Sri Lanka's batting struggles continued after being asked to bat first for the third consecutive time in the series. Sri Lanka started brightly, but their innings deteriorated rapidly, with only a 40-run partnership between Imesha Dulani (27) and Kavisha Dilhari (20) providing resistance. A late contribution from Kaushini Nuthyangana (19 not out) helped Sri Lanka reach a respectable total, though one well below par. Sri Lanka began with Hasini Perera bringing out drives, sweeps and scoops to fetch four boundaries in the first four overs. Captain Chamari Athapaththu struggled under pressure before falling to Deepti, giving mid-off a simple catch. Renuka recovered from an expensive opening over to become the pick of India's bowlers by dismissing Hasini, Harshitha Samarawickrama, and Nilakshika Silva to leave Sri Lanka at 45/4 in 9.3 overs. From there, Imesha and Kavisha hit six boundaries between themselves in an enterprising partnership which Sri Lanka badly needed. But Kavisha fell in the 14th over holing out to deep mid-wicket off Deepti, who became the first-ever cricketer across the mens and womens game to do the double of 1000 runs and 150 wickets in T20Is. An over later, Renukas slower ball accounted for Imesha, who slashed to backward point. With the dismissal of Malsha Shehani, Deepti became the joint-highest wicket-taker in womens T20I history, drawing level with Australias Megan Schutt on 151 wickets. It took two boundaries from Kaushini in the fag end of the innings to take Sri Lanka past the 110-run mark, which was always inadequate to stop Indias winning juggernaut. But Kavisha fell in the 14th over holing out to deep mid-wicket off Deepti, who became the first-ever cricketer across the mens and womens game to do the double of 1000 runs and 150 wickets in T20Is. An over later, Renukas slower ball accounted for Imesha, who slashed to backward point. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka 112/7 in 20 overs (Imesha Dulani 27, Hasini Perera 25; Renuka Singh Thakur 4-21, Deepti Sharma 3-18) lost to India 115/2 in 13.2 overs (Shafali Verma 79 not out, Harmanpreet Kaur 21 not out; Kavisha Dilhari 2-18) by eight wickets Article Source: IANS

Nagesh Trophy: Maharashtra Beat Rajasthan; Karnataka Thrashed Kerala In League Matches

National T20 Cricket Tournament: Maharashtra defeated Rajasthan while Karnataka dominated Kerala in crucial league matches of the 8th edition of the Nagesh Trophy -- Men's National T20 Cricket Tournament for Blind 2025 at the Railway Sports Ground in Hubali on Friday. Both matches highlighted exceptional skill, teamwork, and sportsmanship, underscoring the growing talent and competitive spirit in Indian blind cricket. In an exciting league encounter, Maharashtra defeated Rajasthan by three wickets. Batting first, Rajasthan posted 158/8 in 20 overs, with Vishanu Bhiya (44) and Rohitas Pareek (25) providing key contributions. In response, Maharashtra chased down the target in 19.5 overs -- their chase anchored by a brilliant 76-run innings from B3 Anil Belsare, who was named Player of the Match. Parmeshwar (29) also played a pivotal role, while competitive bowling from Swapnil Dilip Wagh and Amol Karche kept the contest thrilling. In the second match of the day, Karnataka thrashed Kerala by 174 runs in Hubli. In a commanding performance, Karnataka posted a massive 320/2 in 20 overs, with Sunil Ramesh (186 off 78 balls) and Bhaskar B2 (59 off 34 balls) leading the charge. Gudadappa added 38 runs, helping set a daunting target. Kerala could only manage 146/7 in 20 overs, despite Ahad B3 (49)* and Arjun P (31). Karnatakas disciplined bowling, led by Lokesha B2 (1/5) and B1-Basappa Waddagolu (1/8.5), dismantled the chase. Sunil Ramesh was named Player of the Match for his outstanding innings. Nagesh Trophy is Indias premier national-level T20 cricket tournament for visually impaired (blind) mens teams. It brings together state and union territory teams from across the country to compete in a structured T20 format under the auspices of the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI), with support from organisations like the Samarthanam Trust for the Disabled. Gudadappa added 38 runs, helping set a daunting target. Kerala could only manage 146/7 in 20 overs, despite Ahad B3 (49)* and Arjun P (31). Karnatakas disciplined bowling, led by Lokesha B2 (1/5) and B1-Basappa Waddagolu (1/8.5), dismantled the chase. Sunil Ramesh was named Player of the Match for his outstanding innings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The Nagesh Trophy is named in honour of the late S. P. Nagesh, founder president of CABI and a champion for blind cricket development in India. The first edition of the tournament was held in 201819, and has continued annually with increasing participation and competitiveness. Teams from multiple states and union territories compete each year in round-robin league matches followed by knockouts and finals. Andhra Pradesh are the defending champion of the tournament, winning the title by beating Delhi in the finals last year. Article Source: IANS

3rd T20I: Shafali Smashes 79 Not Out As India Clinch Series With Eight-wicket Win Over Sri Lanka

After Renuka Singh Thakur: The in-form opener Shafali Verma smashed an unbeaten 79 off 42 balls to power India Women to an eight-wicket victory over Sri Lanka Women in the third T20I of the five-match series and secure an unassailable 3-0 series lead at the Greenfield International Stadium on Friday. After Renuka Singh Thakur's 4-21 and Deepti Sharma's 3-18 restricted Sri Lanka to 112/7, Shafali tore apart the bowling attack with a splendid display of strokeplay -- smashing 11 fours and three sixes in a blistering knock that guided India home with 6.4 overs to spare. Despite losing her opening partner, Smriti Mandhana and Jemimah Rodrigues to Kavisha Dilhari, Shafali dominated from the outset to ensure India got another convincing win. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur contributed with a composed knock of 21 not out, as India got their fourth consecutive T20I series win over Sri Lanka. Shafali started cautiously by playing three dot balls in the first over, but then unleashed a brutal assault on the Sri Lankan bowlers. Her show began by lofting and pulling Malsha Shehani for six and four, before bringing out the same shots against Nimesha Madushani for a brace of boundaries. But India suffered a big blow when vice-captain Smriti Mandhana was trapped lbw by off-spinner Kavisha Dilhari for just one. Attempting a sweep, Smriti missed the delivery as the ball spun away and struck her front pad, with ball-tracking confirming it would crash into the leg stump. The left-hander reviewed immediately but had to depart for another low score in the series, leaving Sri Lanka buoyant. With Jemimah struggling to time the ball after surviving an lbw appeal on her first ball, Shafali was magnificent in driving, pulling, and lofting, before getting her fifty in just 24 balls with a drive past mid-on off Malki Madara. Kavisha returned to claim Jemimahs wicket when she attempted a sweep off a full delivery tossed up outside off-stump, but the ball took an under-edge that rattled the three sticks. With Harmanpreet getting her boundaries via leg-side shots, Shafali muscled three ruthless boundaries before finishing off the chase with a lofted four to give India another dominant victory. The left-hander reviewed immediately but had to depart for another low score in the series, leaving Sri Lanka buoyant. With Jemimah struggling to time the ball after surviving an lbw appeal on her first ball, Shafali was magnificent in driving, pulling, and lofting, before getting her fifty in just 24 balls with a drive past mid-on off Malki Madara. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka 112/7 in 20 overs (Imesha Dulani 27, Hasini Perera 25; Renuka Singh Thakur 4-21, Deepti Sharma 3-18) lost to India 115/2 in 13.2 overs (Shafali Verma 79 not out, Harmanpreet Kaur 21 not out; Kavisha Dilhari 2-18) by eight wickets Article Source: IANS

Rabada misses SA20 opener with T20 World Cup selection looming

The South Africa fast bowler is expected to miss MICT's second game, but be fit in time for the third

Vijay Hazare Trophy: Padikkal, Karun Centuries Help Karnataka Register Easy Win Over Kerala

Vijay Hazare Trophy: Centuries from Devdutt Padikkal and Karun Nair helped defending champions Karnataka cruise to an eight-wicket victory over neighbours Kerala in their Elite Group A match of the Vijay Hazare Trophy in Ahmedabad on Friday. Padikkal and Nair shared a match-winning 223-run partnership off 234 balls for the second wicket as Karnataka chased down Kerala's 284/7 with 10 balls to spare. Karnataka, who defeated Jharkhand in their tournament opener, elected to field and restricted Kerala after they stumbled to 49 for three. Baba Aparajith (71 off 62) and wicketkeeper Mohammed Azharuddeen (84 off 58) led the recovery with substantial contributions. Left-arm pacer Abhilash Shetty claimed 3-59, while leg-spinner Shreyas Gopal took 2-61. Karnataka lost captain Mayank Agarwal early in the chase before Padikkal and Nair took control and guided Karnataka to their second consecutive victory. In another clash, Madhya Pradesh defeated Tamil Nadu by two wickets in a tense encounter. B Sai Sudharsan (51) and captain Narayan Jagadeesan (55) provided a solid start with a 115-run opening stand, before Mohammed Ali (57) and Sunny Sandhu (43) helped Tamil Nadu reach 280 in 49.3 overs. For MP, left-arm spinner Kumar Kartikeya finished with 3-62. Yash Dubey (92 off 109) and wicketkeeper Himanshu Mantri (90 off 94) responded in MPs chase with a crucial 178-run partnership for the second wicket as they completed the chase with four balls remaining. Jharkhand recovered from their opening loss to Karnataka to defeat Rajasthan by 73 runs. Opener Shikhar Mohan's 129 off 118 balls and Anukul Roy's brisk 52 off 43 deliveries powered Jharkhand to 301. Despite Karan Lamba's century (102), Rajasthan were dismissed for 228. Tripura registered their first win of the tournament with a dominant seven-wicket victory over Puducherry, who were bundled out for just 150, with Swapnil Singh taking a three-fer. Captain Udiyan Bose (53) and Vijay Shankar (47 not out) guided Tripura home in 32.3 overs. Brief scores: Kerala 284/7 in 50 overs (Mohammed Azharuddeen 84, Baba Aparajith 71; Abhilash Shetty 3/59) lost to Karnataka 285/2 in 48.2 overs (Karun Nair 130 not out, Devdutt Padikkal 124) by eight wickets Tamil Nadu 280 all out in 49.3 overs (Mohammed Ali 57, Narayan Jagadeesan 55; Kumar Kartikeya 3/62) lost to Madhya Pradesh 283/8 in 49.2 overs (Yash Dubey 92, Himanshu Mantri 90; Govinth Ganesh 4-54) by two wickets Kerala 284/7 in 50 overs (Mohammed Azharuddeen 84, Baba Aparajith 71; Abhilash Shetty 3/59) lost to Karnataka 285/2 in 48.2 overs (Karun Nair 130 not out, Devdutt Padikkal 124) by eight wickets Also Read: Live Cricket Score Puducherry 150 all out in 41.3 overs (Jayant Yadav 51; Viki Saha 3-23) lost to Tripura 151/3 in 32.3 overs (Udiyan Bose 53, Vijay Shankar 47 not out; Sagar Udeshi 2-16) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS

3rd T20I: Renukas Four-fer, Deeptis Three Wickets Help India Restrict SL To 112/7

Pacer Renuka Singh Thakur: Pacer Renuka Singh Thakur claimed four wickets on her return to the T20I side as India restricted Sri Lanka to 112/7 in the third game of the five-match series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram on Friday. Renuka finished with figures of 4-21, her fourth four-wicket haul in the format, while off-spin bowling all-rounder Deepti Sharma took 3-18 as Sri Lanka's batting struggles continued after being asked to bat first for the third consecutive time in the series. Sri Lanka started brightly, but their innings deteriorated rapidly, with only a 40-run partnership between Imesha Dulani (27) and Kavisha Dilhari (20) providing resistance. Late contributions from Kaushini Nuthyangana (19 not out) helped Sri Lanka reach a respectable total, though one well below par. Sri Lanka began with Hasini Perera bringing out drives, sweep and scoops to fetch four boundaries in the first four overs. Captain Chamari Athapaththu struggled under pressure before falling to Deepti, giving mid-off a simple catch. Renuka recovered from an expensive opening over to become the pick of India's bowlers by dismissing Hasini, Harshitha Samarawickrama, and Nilakshika Silva to leave Sri Lanka at 45/4 in 9.3 overs. From there, Imesha and Kavisha hit six boundaries between themselves in an enterprising partnership which Sri Lanka badly needed. But Kavisha fell in the 14th over holing out to deep mid-wicket off Deepti, who became the first-ever cricketer across the mens and womens game to do the double of 1000 runs and 150 wickets in T20Is. An over later, Renukas slower ball accounted for Imesha, who slashed to backward point. With the dismissal of Malsha Shehani, Deepti became the joint-highest wicket-taker in womens T20I history, drawing level with Australias Megan Schutt on 151 wickets. It took two boundaries from Kaushini in the fag end of the innings to take Sri Lanka past the 110-run mark. India is expected to chase down the modest target comfortably, having won the opening two matches and sealed an easy series win. But Kavisha fell in the 14th over holing out to deep mid-wicket off Deepti, who became the first-ever cricketer across the mens and womens game to do the double of 1000 runs and 150 wickets in T20Is. An over later, Renukas slower ball accounted for Imesha, who slashed to backward point. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka Women 112/7 in 20 overs (Imesha Dulani 27, Hasini Perera 25; Renuka Singh Thakur 4-21, Deepti Sharma 3-18) against India Women Article Source: IANS

Vijay Hazare Trophy: Rinku Helps UP Thrash Chandigarh; Shoreys Hundred Helps Vidarbha Beat Hyderabad

Vijay Hazare Trophy: India batter Rinku Singh smashed an unbeaten century as Uttar Pradesh crushed Chandigarh by 227 runs in their Elite Group B encounter of the Vijay Hazare Trophy 2025-26 season in Rajkot on Friday. Rinku struck 106 not out off just 60 balls, while wicketkeeper-batter Aryan Juyal anchored the innings with 134 off 118 deliveries as Uttar Pradesh posted a formidable 367/4. Wicketkeeper Dhruv Jurel contributed with a brisk 67 off 57 balls in a commanding batting display. Leg-spinner Zeeshan Ansari claimed his second successive four-wicket haul with figures of 4-29 as Chandigarh were dismantled for 140 all out in 29.3 overs. Fellow spinners Vipraj Nigam (2-35) and Prashant Veer (1-11) provided support in a clinical bowling performance. Juyal's century featured eight sixes and seven fours as he paced his innings shrewdly. Rinku, who is in Indias squad for the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup, provided the late acceleration with 10 boundaries and four sixes to hit his second List A century. He initially partnered with Juyal before joining forces with Chennai Super Kings (CSK) new recruit Prashant Veer, as the pair added 63 runs off just 35 balls to propel Uttar Pradesh beyond 350. The performance will encourage India's selectors ahead of the T20 World Cup, with Rinku being the designated finisher for the team in the shortest format. Meanwhile, Dhruv Shorey equalled N. Jagadeesan's record for most consecutive centuries in List A cricket as his unbeaten -109 powered Vidarbha to an 89-run victory over Hyderabad. Shorey's fifth consecutive List A hundred, struck off 77 balls with nine fours and six sixes, guided Vidarbha to 365/5 in 50 overs. Captain Harsh Dubey then led a disciplined bowling effort by picking three wickets as Hyderabad were dismissed for 276. Shorey built on a solid 148-run opening stand between Aman Mokhade (82 off 78 balls) and Yash Rathod (68 off 82 balls). After Nitin Yadav broke the partnership by forcing Mokhade to hole out at deep cover, and Rathod fell five overs later, Shorey took charge alongside R. Samarth (63 off 46 balls) to stitch a blistering 140-run stand off just 95 balls. He reached his eighth List A century off 73 balls with a lofted six, with Harsh and Nachiket Bhute providing late impetus to push Vidarbha past 350. Hyderabad maintained a brisk scoring rate early in their reply despite losing opener Tanmay Agarwal for 21. Varun Goud top-scored with 85 off 68 balls, striking four boundaries and four sixes, before being stumped while attempting an aggressive shot. Rahul Singh Gahlaut received two reprieves in the deep but eventually succumbed to Yash Thakur's short-ball tactics in the middle overs, as the target proved to be beyond Hyderabads reach. Left-arm seamer Raj Limbani claimed his maiden five-wicket haul as Baroda dismissed Bengal for 205 before cruising to a four-wicket victory with 11.1 overs to spare. Baroda captain Krunal Pandya set the tone with figures of 3-39, including the prized wicket of Abishek Porel, to restrict Bengal's scoring. Limbani then completed the job with his first five-wicket haul in List A cricket as Bengal failed to utilise their allotted overs. Krunal anchored the chase with a measured 57 off 63 balls at number four as Baroda completed the chase to register their second consecutive victory in the tournament. In another match, former Tamil Nadu leg-spinner Murugan Ashwin claimed his maiden List A five-wicket haul as Jammu and Kashmir defeated Assam by a massive 142 runs. Yawer Hassan's century powered J&K to 341/7 before Ashwin's spin bowling dismantled Assam's chase, as they were bowled out for just 199. Brief scores: Uttar Pradesh 367/4 in 50 overs (Aryan Juyal 134, Rinku Singh 106 not out; Taranpreet Singh 2-74) beat Chandigarh 140 all out in 29.3 overs (Manan Vohra 32; Zeeshan Ansari 4-29) by 227 runs Vidarbha 365/5 in 50 overs (Dhruv Shorey 109 not out; Kartikeya Kak 3-87) defeated Hyderabad 279 all out in 49.2 overs (Aelgani Varun Goud 85; Harsh Dubey 3/39) by 89 runs Uttar Pradesh 367/4 in 50 overs (Aryan Juyal 134, Rinku Singh 106 not out; Taranpreet Singh 2-74) beat Chandigarh 140 all out in 29.3 overs (Manan Vohra 32; Zeeshan Ansari 4-29) by 227 runs Also Read: Live Cricket Score Jammu and Kashmir 341/7 in 50 overs (Yawer Hassan 138; Denish Das 2-46) beat Assam 199 all out in 36.1 overs (Sumit Ghadigaonkar 53; Murugan Ashwin 5-34) by 142 runs. Article Source: IANS

David ensures Hurricanes' win, but picks up hamstring injury

Rishad Hossain's three-for restricted Scorchers to 150 for 8 at Perth Stadium

Deepti, Renuka in as India bowl; Sri Lanka make three changes

Trailing 2-0, the visitors have brought in Meepage, Dulani and Snehani to try and turn the tide

3rd T20I: Have Embraced That World Champions Feeling Very Well As A Team, Says Mandhana

ODI World Cup: India vice-captain Smriti Mandhana said the team had embraced the feeling of being crowned world champions, but also pointed out that the tag also brought added responsibility. Last month, India won the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup in Navi Mumbai and got their first-ever ICC trophy in senior womens cricket. It feels amazing, to be honest (on being called world champions). I still remember that moment at the World Cup when our team walked out, and they announced us as champions - it was surreal. Its been about a month now, and as a team weve embraced that feeling really well. But along with the pride, it also brings responsibility. It reminds us to prepare even better and to keep that success going because well be known as world champions for the next few years. Hopefully the marketing team doesnt let us forget it either! said Smriti in a chat with broadcasters ahead of the third T20I against Sri Lanka in Thiruvananthapuram. During the ongoing series, Smriti became the first Indian womens cricketer to score more than 4,000 runs in T20Is. Though she is yet to get a fifty in the series, Smriti expressed happiness with how her form has been in 2025. For me as a batter, its about keeping things simple: reacting to the ball, backing my strengths, and not overthinking. If I do that well, I know I can contribute to the team. I dont like talking too much about myself, but Im happy with how things have gone. This format is something I keep working hard on every single day, and its nice when the effort translates into performances, she added. During the ongoing series, Smriti became the first Indian womens cricketer to score more than 4,000 runs in T20Is. Though she is yet to get a fifty in the series, Smriti expressed happiness with how her form has been in 2025. For me as a batter, its about keeping things simple: reacting to the ball, backing my strengths, and not overthinking. If I do that well, I know I can contribute to the team. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We played a lot of ODI cricket leading up to the World Cup - almost a year of preparation. But we always knew the next phase would be heavy on T20 cricket, with the T20 World Cup, this series, and the WPL coming up. Article Source: IANS

3rd T20I: Renuka, Deepti Return As India Elect To Bowl First Against Sri Lanka

Pacer Renuka Singh Thakur: Pacer Renuka Singh Thakur and all-rounder Deepti Sharma come back into Indias playing eleven as skipper Harmanpreet Kaur won the toss and elected to bowl first against Sri Lanka in the third T20I of the five-match series at the Greenfield International Stadium in Thiruvananthapuram, on Friday. India have a 2-0 lead in the five-match series, and a win on Friday will give them the series win. After winning the toss for the third straight time, Harmanpreet said Renuka and Deepti, who missed the second T20I in Visakhapatnam due to mild fever, come in place of Sneh Rana and Arundhati Reddy, who are rested from this clash. With the conditions and the dew likely to come in, we felt this was the best option. Also, with the series on the line, we wanted to back our strength and keep things simple. The message has been clear from the start - even at the hotel before we came to the ground. This is an important match, a great opportunity to seal the series, so we need to play with confidence, stick to our plans, and enjoy our cricket. We want to be more aggressive in the powerplay so Renuka is back, she said. Sri Lanka captain Chamari Athapaththu said three changes have been made to their playing eleven, with Imesha Dulani and two other players coming in. We would have bowled as well if we had won the toss. Ive told them to just play their natural cricket. We have a few youngsters, and this is a really good platform for them to show their skills. The group is young, the team is still developing, and every game is a learning opportunity. The World Cup is coming up, and it is a good chance to play some good cricket, she said. Playing XIs: We have a few youngsters, and this is a really good platform for them to show their skills. The group is young, the team is still developing, and every game is a learning opportunity. The World Cup is coming up, and it is a good chance to play some good cricket, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka: Chamari Athapaththu (c), Hasini Perera, Harshitha Samarawickrama, Kavisha Dilhari, Nilakshika Silva, Imesha Dulani, Kaushani Nuthyangana(w), Malsha Shehani, Inoka Ranaweera, Malki Madara, and Nimesha Madushani Article Source: IANS

Ashes 2025-26: We Had To Just Be Patient And Let The Wicket Do The Work, Says Neser After All-round Perfromance

Every Boxing Day: Michael Neser described patience and discipline as the key to success after his standout all-round display on Boxing Day at the MCG helped Australia seize control of the fourth Test of the five-match Ashes series against England in Melbourne on Friday. On the opening day of the Test match, Australia established their dominance as both teams struggled against the moving ball. Australia were bowled out for 152 runs off 46 overs, following England's decision to bowl first, with Josh Tongue leading the England bowling attack with five wickets for 45 runs. The highest run-scorer for Australia was Michael Neser with 35 runs, who provided some much-needed resistance on a difficult pitch. Obviously, the last few weeks have been pretty keen to get a new ball in there and plans out, Neser said after stumps. The ball definitely nipped around a bit there with the new rock, so it was just a matter of trying to find ways to put pressure back on their bowlers and knowing that when we bowled, we had to just be patient and let the wicket do the work. After the first innings of Australia, England came out to bat on a surface that was very helpful to bowlers, creating the same issues for them as they had faced. Neser, like Tongue, removed important English batsmen Jacob Bethell, Joe Root, and Ben Stokes to finish with 4 for 45 and help to dismiss England for 110 runs in just under 30 overs. The only person who provided any substantial resistance for England in their innings was Harry Brook, who scored 41 runs, handing Australia a first innings lead of 42 runs. Opening the inning with Travis Head, Scott Boland edged a boundary on the very last delivery of the day to increase the hosts' lead to 46. I don't know as an opener, but I know as a tail ender, it's our job sometimes to do that sort of role, and Scotty, you don't have to even ask him, he'll run down and put his pads on, Neser said. However, apart from the statistics and analysis, the game on Boxing Day at the MCG has a very personal meaning to Neser, who has always dreamed of playing a key role on that day since childhood. It's unreal. I dreamt of this as a kid. Every Boxing Day, I'd wake up early, and me and my brother and I would play backyard cricket for hours and come back in and watch cricket, he said. The whole day is cricket for us, and to be part of it, it's a dream come true. It gives me goosebumps just thinking about it. However, apart from the statistics and analysis, the game on Boxing Day at the MCG has a very personal meaning to Neser, who has always dreamed of playing a key role on that day since childhood. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cricket's a funny game. I guess going into the season, I didn't know if I was going to be playing for Australia again, and to be in the position I am now, I'm very privileged, Neser said. Article Source: IANS

T20 World Cup: India Was So Scared In 2022 Semis That They Forgot To Play Freely, Says Finch

T20 World Cup: Though India go into the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup as the defending champions, their turnaround in form in the shortest format came after they suffered a ten-wicket thrashing to England in the 2022 semifinal in Adelaide. Australia's World Cup-winning captain, Aaron Finch, recalled that Indias mental state was led by fear of losing and that ultimately cost them the match. India was so scared of losing that semifinal that they did not allow themselves to play freely. You are disappointed when you are knocked out. But after the dust settles, you plan backwards. You put things in place, set small markers, and agree on where you should be at each stage. Then you just keep ticking those off as you go, Finch said in the second episode of the Rise of Champions series on JioHotstar. Former England captain Eoin Morgan, who was commentating on that semifinal, recalled the visible shift in India's approach during the crucial clash. Anytime India comes to a World Cup, the level of expectation is always there to win it. The India vs England semifinal was painted to be an absolute spectacle of a game. What unfolded, about ten overs into India's batting, I remember turning to Sunil Gavaskar in the commentary box and asking where this bravery, this courage, this fearless style of play that India had played with in the tournament under Rohit Sharma recently, where'd it gone? he said. After that defeat, former Indian cricketer Sanjay Manjrekar highlighted changes in the teams selection philosophy during that tournament. One advantage I looked forward to was Rohit picking a more predictable playing eleven, like Mahendra Singh Dhoni did. Virat Kohli and Ravi Shastri had an unbelievable knack of surprising you with the playing XI in almost every game, he said. Finch also emphasised the value of fresh perspectives in team dynamics. Change isn't always a bad thing. There are times when even just a fresh voice, whether it's a captain or coach, can be a really beneficial ingredient for the rest of the group, he said. Coming to India's 2023 Mens ODI World Cup campaign, where Rohit & Co dominated the tournament before falling to Australia in the final in Ahmedabad, former captain Sunil Gavaskar credited Rohit Sharma's aggressive batting approach for setting the tone at the top. India got off to a flying start with Rohit Sharma scoring most of the runs. He set an example for others to play in that way and keep the scoreboard moving, he said. But Manjrekar suggested that India's meticulous planning backfired in the final. I was very proud of that Indian team that played in the 2023 ODI World Cup because it looked like the best team in the world. India, with Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid, tried to control things off the field a little too much. The pitch they chose was a blunder. We saw that batters like Suryakumar Yadav are not the same when the pace is taken off on a slow pitch, Manjrekar said. Former Indian spinner Harbhajan Singh attributed the loss in the final to mental pressure affecting the team's concentration. I think that was the pressure of playing a big final. The expectation to win shifted their focus. Their focus drifted, and that is why we fell behind in that match, he said. But Manjrekar suggested that India's meticulous planning backfired in the final. I was very proud of that Indian team that played in the 2023 ODI World Cup because it looked like the best team in the world. India, with Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid, tried to control things off the field a little too much. The pitch they chose was a blunder. We saw that batters like Suryakumar Yadav are not the same when the pace is taken off on a slow pitch, Manjrekar said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score One was better prepared. They are a dominant team, but losing the World Cup at home is a huge loss. I don't know how you move on from that. With 1.4 billion people, you should beat anyone on the planet, he said. Article Source: IANS

Around 70 Teams From 26 States & Six UTs To Participate In Junior National Kho Kho In Karnataka

Junior National Kho Kho Championship: Around 35 boys' and as many girls' teams are expected to participate in the 44th Junior National Kho Kho Championship 2025-26, scheduled from Dec 31 to January 4 at Gunjur, Bengaluru. Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, Puducherry, Chandigarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Delhi are the Union Territories participating in the Championship. Apart from States, teams representing recognised Kho Kho Associations like Kolhapur, Vidarbha, and Madhya Bharat will also battle it out for the title in the Championship, which will be on the league-cum-knockout basis. All eyes would be on Maharashtra, which won both the boys and girls' titles in the 43rd Junior National Kho Kho Championship held at Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh, in 2024. The pre-quarterfinal matches in both boys and girls categories will be held in the morning, while quarterfinal matches will be held in the afternoon on January 3. On January 4, the semifinals would be conducted in the morning and the finals after that. Both boys and girls teams have been divided into 8 groups each, the Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI) informed in a release onFriday. Other than referees, as many as 25 officials, including technical officials, coaches, and officials from the association, have been deployed for the preparations and smooth conduct of the Championship. Arrangements for the boarding and lodging of players have been made within a 3-4 km vicinity of the stadium, and 10 buses have been deployed for their conveyance, said Lokeshwara, President of Karnataka State Kho Kho Association. The Championship is being held at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Stadium in Gunjur. It is a festival of Kho Kho in which young talents from all across the country compete for the title. It is also a platform for junior talents to showcase their skills. Identification of the talent and its recognition plays an important role in promoting sport and sportspersons as we religiously aim for Kho Khos inclusion in Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Olympics, said Sudhanshu Mittal, President, Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI). General Secretary, KKFI, Upkar Singh Virk said, All preparations are in place for the smooth conduct of the Championship. Our focus is on the development of athletes and infrastructure. It is a festival of Kho Kho in which young talents from all across the country compete for the title. It is also a platform for junior talents to showcase their skills. Identification of the talent and its recognition plays an important role in promoting sport and sportspersons as we religiously aim for Kho Khos inclusion in Asian Games, Commonwealth Games, and Olympics, said Sudhanshu Mittal, President, Kho Kho Federation of India (KKFI). Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will host the first Commonwealth Kho Kho Championship from March 9-14, 2026, the 58th Senior National Kho Kho Championship (Men & Women) 2025-26 from January 11-15, 2026, in Kazipet, Telangana, and the 35th Sub-Junior National Kho Kho Championship (Boys & Girls) 2025-26 in Kurukshetra, Haryana, from January 31, 2026, to February 4, 2026. Article Source: IANS

Harper 60-ball 110* and Curran, Siddle three-fors make it three in three for Stars

For Sydney Sixers, it was a third loss in four games this season, and for their premier quick Kane Richardson, a forgettable day as he conceded 41 from two wicketless overs

ICC Mens T20 WC 2026 Trophy Tour Wraps Up Qatar And Oman Legs

Indian School Al Wadi Al: After enchanting fans as part of its grand launch at Adams Bridge, culturally revered in India as the Ram Setu, the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour successfully concluded its Qatar and Oman legs, engaging fans, students and communities across key cities and iconic locations in both countries. In Qatar, the trophy arrived at the Doha Corniche via a traditional dhow, set against the city skyline, symbolising the nations maritime heritage and its growing role in global sport. During its journey across the country, the trophy visited several of Qatars most recognised landmarks including Sealine Beach, Aspire Zone, also known as Doha Sports City, Katara Cultural Village, Souq Waqif, and Lusail Boulevard. These stops allowed fans to engage with the trophy while showcasing Qatars blend of heritage and modern development. Community engagement was a key focus of the tour. The trophy was publicly displayed at a central public gathering space, with national players, embassies, and community leaders in attendance, allowing fans to engage through on-ground activations and photo opportunities. The tour also reached schools and universities, including Birla Public School, UDST University, and Qatar Foundation, engaging thousands of students and promoting inclusivity through sport. Special interactions at Qatar Foundation highlighted inclusion initiatives, including engagement with children with autism. In recognition of the workforce that plays a vital role in the countrys development, a dedicated activation was held at Asian Town, celebrating the South Asian diaspora and their love for cricket. The Qatar leg concluded with the trophy on display at sunset across the desert, marking the end of a memorable chapter of the tour in the country. Following Qatar, the trophy continued to Oman, where it visited a mix of sporting venues, cultural landmarks and public spaces. Key stops included the Muttrah Fort, Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, Royal Opera House Muscat, Oman Across Ages Museum, Jabal Akhdar Viewpoint, and Qurum Beach, offering scenic backdrops for fan interactions and media engagements. The tour focused on youth and fan engagement through visits to Indian School Muscat and Indian School Al Wadi Al Kabir, giving students the opportunity to see the trophy up close, while public activations enabled fans to view the trophy firsthand. The trophy visited the Oman Cricket Academy, where the senior mens team, including captain Jatinder Singh, head coach Duleep Mendis, and deputy head coach Sulakshan Kulkarni, were present alongside the U19 mens team and senior womens team with their respective coaches, as they posed with the trophy, creating memorable team moments. Through activations at landmark locations, educational institutions and public venues, the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 Trophy Tour with DP World continues to bring fans closer to the tournament and build excitement ahead of the global event. The trophy visited the Oman Cricket Academy, where the senior mens team, including captain Jatinder Singh, head coach Duleep Mendis, and deputy head coach Sulakshan Kulkarni, were present alongside the U19 mens team and senior womens team with their respective coaches, as they posed with the trophy, creating memorable team moments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from 7 February to 8 March 2026 across Narendra Modi Stadium (Ahmedabad), MA Chidambaram Stadium (Chennai), Arun Jaitley Stadium (New Delhi), Wankhede Stadium (Mumbai), Eden Gardens (Kolkata), R. Premadasa Stadium (Colombo), Sinhalese Sports Club Cricket Ground (Colombo) and Pallekele International Cricket Stadium (Kandy). Article Source: IANS

'That pitch has too much life for Test cricket' - MCG surface under scanner

Stuart Broad and Glenn McGrath among former players to criticise Melbourne pitch after 20-wicket day

Shorey equals record for most consecutive List A hundreds

His unbeaten 109 against Hyderabad was his fifth century in a row, equalling Jagadeesan's record

He Has Strong Leadership Qualities: RCB Andy Flower Happy To Aquire Venkatesh Iyer

RCB Andy Flower: Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) head coach Andy Flower expressed his happiness at acquiring Venkatesh Iyer and praised his leadership qualities ahead of the IPL 2026. The mini-auction saw Royal Challengers Bengaluru bolster their championship squad by securing Venkatesh Iyer, Jacob Duffy and Mangesh Yadav. RCB snapped up Venkatesh Iyer for Rs 7 crore after Kolkata Knight Riders withdrew from the bidding, bringing an end to a far more restrained contest than last year, when the two franchises were locked in a fierce auction battle that saw KKR secure him for a staggering Rs 23.75 crore. Venkatesh Iyer has strong leadership qualities. That is great to have in the dressing room and on the field. We are happy to get him and I look forward to working with him. When you plan well and have a good strategy, you know your limits. I think KKR had a little extra money left in their purse after purchasing Cameron Green. They were probably betting some of it on Venkatesh Iyer because they had some money left, but in the end, we ended up acquiring Venkatesh and we are really happy with it, Flower said on JioStar. Venkatesh Iyer has strong leadership qualities. That is great to have in the dressing room and on the field. We are happy to get him and I look forward to working with him. When you plan well and have a good strategy, you know your limits. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On RCB's careful strategy to maintain stability within their squad after the auction, Kumble said, Venkatesh Iyer will not be in the playing eleven at the start. You do not want to create doubt in a winning team. That is probably why they did not go after a Ravi Bishnoi, so that Suyash Sharma does not feel threatened by a senior India spinner. They have done well to keep the core the same, back their players, and just have a few backups in case something goes wrong. Article Source: IANS

'I dreamt of this as a kid' - Neser emerges as Australia's unlikely Ashes hero

Michael Neser first scored a vital 35 and then picked up four wickets on the 20-wicket first day of the MCG Test

Vaibhav Suryavanshi Receives PM Rashtriya Bal Puraskar From President Droupadi Murmu, BCCI Congratulates

Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar: President of India Droupadi Murmu on Friday conferred on India's 14-year-old batting prodigy Vaibhav Suryavanshi for his exploits in the field of cricket. The President conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar on children for their exceptional achievements in the fields of Bravery, Social Service, Environment, Sports, Art & Culture and Science & Technology at a ceremony held in the national capital. The Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar is Indias highest civilian honour for individuals aged five to 18, instituted to recognise exceptional achievements across diverse fields like art and culture, innovation, science and technology, social service, sports and instances of bravery. Speaking on the occasion, the President congratulated the recipients of the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar and said, Vaibhav Suryavanshi has made a name for himself in the highly competitive and talent-filled world of cricket and has set many records. The teenager is also slated to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi later in the day. Following the ceremony in Delhi, he will rejoin the India Under-19 squad and travel to Zimbabwe for preparations ahead of the Under-19 World Cup, which begins from January 15. The BCCI also congratulated the youngster for his achievement. Congratulations to our explosive young batter, Vaibhav Suryavanshi, on being conferred the Pradhan Mantri Rashtriya Bal Puraskar by the Honourable President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmuji, it posted on X. Earlier this week, Suryavanshi smashed 190 off 84 balls against Arunachal Pradesh at the Vijay Hazare Trophy, becoming the youngest centurion in List A history. The knock also broke AB de Villiers record for the fastest 150 in List A cricket and his 15 sixes in the innings are the most by any Indian in the 50-over format. Earlier this month, Suryavanshi smashed an unbeaten century for Bihar against Maharashtra in an Elite Group B Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025 match at Eden Gardens in Kolkata. He scored an unbeaten 108 off 61 balls, his maiden ton in the T20 domestic cricket tournament and third overall in the format. His century also made him the youngest batter to score a century in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, at 14 years and 250 days. The 14-year-old cricketer also smashed the record for the highest score by an Indian in U19 Asia Cup history with his 171 off just 95 against the UAE. The explosive southpaw also slammed a ton against the Australia U19 team in Brisbane during a Youth Test match in November. His most recent jaw-dropping innings came in the Rising Stars Asia Cup, where he scored 144 off 42 balls for India A against UAE, smashing 11 fours and 15 sixes. His 32-ball hundred made him the youngest man to score a century for any national representative side at senior level, breaking a 20-year-old record. Suryvanshi was the most-searched Indian on Google and ranked sixth overall worldwide. Last month, social media platform Instagram chose to spotlight Suryavanshis journey on its official page - making him only the second Indian cricketer after Virat Kohli to receive the honour. His 32-ball hundred made him the youngest man to score a century for any national representative side at senior level, breaking a 20-year-old record. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He then stunned everyone nine days later by becoming the youngest centurion in the leagues history. Vaibhavs explosive 35-ball 100 against the Gujarat Titans was the fastest IPL century by an Indian and the second-fastest overall, behind only Chris Gayle. Article Source: IANS

Ashes: Australia Take 46-run Lead As 20 Wickets Fall On Day 1 Of MCG Test

Boxing Day Test: Australia held a 46-run lead on day one of the Boxing Day Test after the hosts were bowled out for 152 and England replied with an even limper 110 as a record 20 wickets fell on the first day of the fourth Ashes Test here at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on Friday. The last time 20 or more wickets fell on the first day of an Ashes Test in Australia was back in 1901-02, an era where cricket was played on uncovered pitches. After England won the toss and opted to field first, Josh Tongue led the way with the best Boxing Day figures since Ian Botham took 5-41 on this day in 1986. He also became the first English bowler since 1998 to claim a fifer at MCG. It was Gus Atkinson who drew the first blood as he removed Travis Head for 27 in the seventh over. Then came Tongue to the attack and got rid of opener Jake Weatherald for 10 in the tenth over. Marnus Labuschagne was his second victim of the day. Labuschagne (6) was out for his fourth consecutive sub-20 score when his half-drive was nicked to first slip before Tongue made standing-in skipper Steve Smith his third victim, bowling him out cheaply for 9. Soon, Usman Khawaja edged Atkinson before Alex Carey was caught at leg-slip off Ben Stokes and the hosts were reduced to 91/6. From there, Cameron Green and Michael Neser steadied the ship with a 52-run partnership. Neser struck seven boundaries in a team-high 35 before Green's decision to set off for a quick single proved wrong as Brydon Carse threw down the non-striker's end stumps to catch the diving all-rounder well short of his ground. The run-out prompted a collapse as the hosts lost the last four wickets for nine runs in 20 balls as they were dismissed for 152, their lowest Boxing Day score since being rolled for 98 in the 2010-11 Ashes. However, England failed to capitalise on their bowling performance, as they were bowled out for their lowest Test score since their last visit to Victoria in 2021. In reply to Australia's first innings total, England were precariously reduced to 16-4 within eight overs as Mitchell Starc (2-23) and Neser (4-45) wreaked havoc early in the innings. Then Harry Brook slogged 41 in his brief 34-ball innings to give little hope. He stunned the near-full stadium by charging his first ball and missed a reckless slog off Starc. Then, Joe Root's attempted to defend his way out of danger but edged Neser behind for a 15-ball duck. Brook had cleared the fence twice before he was trapped lbw by Boland to spark another collapse as Boland came back to remove Jamie Smith and Will Jacks followed him soon after to leave England 77/7. Neser then had Ben Stokes caught at second slip to see them staring down the barrel of sub-100 total. But with Atkinson's crucial 28, the visitors avoided that embarrassment. Atkinson was dismissed off the bowling of Green and Neser put the last nail in the coffin by getting rid of Carse for 4 as England were bundled out for 110. Neser then had Ben Stokes caught at second slip to see them staring down the barrel of sub-100 total. But with Atkinson's crucial 28, the visitors avoided that embarrassment. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: Australia 152 (Neser 35, Tongue 5-45, Atkinson 2-28) and 4 for 0 lead England 110 (Brook 41, Neser 4-45, Boland 3-30) by 46 runs Article Source: IANS

MI Cape Town vs Durban Super Giants, Match 1, SA20 2025-26, Who will win today MICT vs DSG match?

MICT vs DSG, Match 1 , Cricket Tips :The fourth edition of the South Africa T20 League (SA20 2025-26) will begin with a game between the current champion, MI Cape Town, and Durban Super Giants. This game will begin on Friday at 9 PM IST at Cape Town in Newlands. The two teams will aim to get points from the first match. MI Cape Town will miss Nicholas Pooran for the first few games, as he is currently engaged with MI Emirates in the ILT20 2025-26. Rashid Khan will lead the defending champion. The Super Giants will see a change in captain as two-time SA20 winner Aiden Markram will lead this star-studded team. MICT vs DSG: Match Details Date : December 26, 2025 (Friday) Time : 9:00 PM IST Venue : Cape Town, Newlands MICT vs DSG: Live Streaming Details The live telecast of the SA20 2025-26 will be available on the Star Sports Network in India. The live stream of the tournament will be provided on the Jio Hotstar app or website. MICT vs DSG: Head-to-Head in SA20 Total Matches : 6 MI Cape Town : 1 Durban Super Giants : 4 No-Result : 1 MICT vs DSG: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Newlands is a good wicket to bat on. The bounce is good, which will play in the hands of the batters. Fast bowlers will get early movement and bounce, and they can use the slower ones and cutters to good effect. This is a good chase venue. MICT vs DSG: Possible XIs MI Cape Town : Ryan Rickelton (wk), Reeza Hendricks, Rassie van der Dussen, Karim Janat, Jason Smith, Tom Moores, Rashid Khan (c), George Linde, Corbin Bosch, Trent Boult, Kagiso Rabada Durban Super Giants : Jos Buttler, Aiden Markram (c), Kane Williamson, Tony de Zorzi, Heinrich Klaasen (wk), David Wiese, David Bedingham, Dayyan Galiem, Noor Ahmad, Gerald Coetzee, Andile Simelane MICT vs DSG: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Jos Buttler is in good form, and he will be the key batter for DSG. For MICT, the form of Rassie van der Dussen will be important to do well in this game. Probable Best Bowler Rashid Khan will lead the charge for MICT and will be the one to watch out for. For DSG, Noor Ahmad will be a key bowler, as he has been going through a purple patch. Today Match Prediction : Both teams look good, but the batting power of the Super Giants is the reason that they will start this game as favorites. MICT vs DSG Match 1, SA20 2025-26, Today Match MICT vs DSG, MICT vs DSG Prediction, MICT vs DSG Predicted XIs, Injury Update of the match between MI Cape Town vs Durban Super Giants 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.

Ashes: MCG Breaks 2015 WC Final Record With 94199 Attendance On Boxing Day Test

ICC Cricket World Cup Final: The Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) have recorded a massive attendance of 94,199 fans on the opening day of the Boxing Day Test, marking the highest crowd ever recorded for a cricket match at the venue. The historic crowd surpassed the previous record of 93,013, set during the 2015 ICC Cricket World Cup Final between Australia and New Zealand. It also established a new record for the highest attended single day of Test cricket, eclipsing the 91,112 spectators who attended the MCG for Day 1 of the 2013 Boxing Day Test between Australia and England. This years record-breaking Day 1, combined with sold-out Days 2 and 3, puts the Ashes cumulative attendance record of 271,865 (also set in 2013) within reach. Australia currently leads the Ashes 30, with one Test (Sydney) remaining after the Boxing Day Test. Melbourne hosted the inaugural Boxing Day Test in 1950. Since then, CA has held contractual rights to use the MCG until the end of March each summer, despite the venue often being used for Australian Rules football in that month. Earlier this year, it extended its venue hire agreement with the MCG until the 2030-31 summer. The iconic venue will also host the historic one-off day-night Test match between arch-rivals Australia and England in March 2027 to commemorate the 150th anniversary of the first Test match, marking the first instance of Australias mens team playing a pink-ball Test at the MCG. Melbourne hosted the inaugural Boxing Day Test in 1950. Since then, CA has held contractual rights to use the MCG until the end of March each summer, despite the venue often being used for Australian Rules football in that month. Earlier this year, it extended its venue hire agreement with the MCG until the 2030-31 summer. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ballot opened on December 23 and runs until February 6, 2026. Once closed, entries will be randomised and successful applicants will be notified by February 13. Article Source: IANS

Australia seize handy lead after Josh Tongue five-for on 20-wicket day

England were dismissed for 110 at the MCG with Michael Neser and Scott Boland rampant

Cricket Australia CEO Says Hosting Of Day-night Boxing Day Test At MCG Is 'not Off The Cards'

Cricket Australia CEO: Cricket Australia chief executive Todd Greenberg has not ruled out the possibility of a day-night Boxing Day Test at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. The MCG held a womens day-night Test match in January 2025; in addition, the venue will host Australia and England's 150th Anniversary Test under lights in March 2027. Melbourne hosted the inaugural Boxing Day Test in 1950. Since then CA holds contractual rights to use the MCG until the end of March each summer, despite the venue often being used for Australian Rules football in that month. Earlier this year, it extended its venue hire agreement with the MCG until the 2030-31 summer. Look, its not off the cards. Weve been talking a lot about the strength of pink-ball cricket, it was amazing this year in Brisbane, and it has been really good in Adelaide. March 2027, it will get its opportunity here in Melbourne. Greenberg was quoted by Fox Cricket. Due to the enormous crowds expected to pack the MCG across five days between March 11 to 15 for the historic 150th Anniversary Test between Australia and England in March 2027, CA has opened a ticket ballot for the first time in its history. The ballot opened on December 23 and runs until February 6, 2026. Once closed, entries will be randomised, and successful applicants will be notified by February 13. Due to the enormous crowds expected to pack the MCG across five days between March 11 to 15 for the historic 150th Anniversary Test between Australia and England in March 2027, CA has opened a ticket ballot for the first time in its history. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Those who were here in the 77 Centenary (Test) still talk about it in great affection, and our job is to make sure that happens again at the 150th in March 2027, said Greenberg. Article Source: IANS

Pat Cummins sets eyes on T20 World Cup in India after missing last of Ashes: High risk to play back-to-back Tests

VHT: Kohli Makes 77 Against Gujarat; Rohit Suffers Golden Duck Vs Uttarakhand

Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite Group: Former Indian skipper Rohit Sharma was dismissed for a golden duck in the first over of Mumbai's innings against Uttarakhand in the Vijay Hazare Trophy Elite Group C match here on Friday. Rohit was caught at deep fine leg off right-arm medium pacer Akash Madhwal Bora on the final delivery of the first over, with Jagmohan Nagarkoti completing the catch after fumbling his initial attempt. The 38-year-old opener made a sensational comeback to domestic cricket, scoring a 62-ball century against Sikkim in what was his first Vijay Hazare Trophy match in seven years for Mumbai on Wednesday. He went on to make 155 off 98 in Mumbai's successful chase. Rohit's century marked the former India skipper's 37th in List A cricket, adding to his tally of 33 international centuries for India. On the other hand, talismanic batter Virat Kohli continued his fine form for Delhi in the Vijay Hazare Trophy as he scored a brisk 77 against Gujarat Elite Group D match in Bengaluru. Kohli's innings was laced with 14 boundaries. He stitched a 72-run second-wicket stand with Arpit Rana and combined 24 runs with Nitish Rana, followed by a small 10-run stand with Rishabh Pant, before he fell victim to Vishal Jayswal in the 22nd over. Playing for Delhi in their clash against Andhra Pradesh here at the BCCIs Centre of Excellence on Wednesday, Kohli achieved the milestone of 16,000 List A runs with his first run in the teams chase of 299. Kohli's innings was laced with 14 boundaries. He stitched a 72-run second-wicket stand with Arpit Rana and combined 24 runs with Nitish Rana, followed by a small 10-run stand with Rishabh Pant, before he fell victim to Vishal Jayswal in the 22nd over. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Kohlis last appearance in the Vijay Hazare Trophy came during the 2010-11 season, where he captained Delhi. He would go on to play in the NKP Salve Challenger Trophy in 2013-14 but had not participated in the Vijay Hazare for nearly a decade before this comeback. Article Source: IANS