'My Job Is To Only Take Wickets': Nabi Reflects On Long Wait For India Selection
Galle International Stadium: Jammu and Kashmir seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi admitted he had expectations of earning an India call-up after his sensational Ranji Trophy campaign but insisted he remained focused on performing rather than worrying about selection, a mindset that eventually helped him earn his maiden Test call-up. Nabi claimed 60 wickets in the Ranji Trophy last season and played a pivotal role in Jammu and Kashmirs historic maiden title triumph. Yet, despite finishing as the competitions highest wicket-taker and playing a key role in the championship-winning campaign, the India call-up did not come immediately. The 29-year-old said he had expected to be rewarded for his performances but maintained that his responsibility was simply to keep delivering on the field. Yes, I had expectations. But at the same time, a cricket players mindset should be there. Your job is to perform, and the rest will see. If not today, I will join the India team tomorrow, Nabi said in a video released by the BCCI. You have been doing well for so many years. You have to reap the fruits of your hard work. I had the same mindset when I bowled. My job is to take wickets and perform. The rest is up to God, he added. Nabis patience eventually paid off when he was called up to Indias Test squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka as a replacement for injured pace spearhead Jasprit Bumrah. The call came at an unexpected moment for Nabi, who was at the airport preparing to travel to Bengaluru for a camp. I was at the airport; we had to go to a camp. The flight was going to board in Bangalore, so I got a call asking where I was. I said, Sir, I am going to Bangalore, I am at the airport. He said, No, you dont have to go there, you have to come to Sri Lanka, and you have been selected. At first, I couldnt believe it; it was unexpected, he said. Nabi's India selection comes after two outstanding Ranji Trophy seasons in which Nabi amassed 104 wickets. His exploits in the 2025-26 campaign also helped Jammu and Kashmir secure their maiden Ranji Trophy title. I am very happy that I have been named Ranji Champion. My family is very happy. Nothing can be better than this for me, he said. Nabis domestic performances had earlier earned him his maiden IPL contract with Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. He featured in five games, while also representing India A on the tour of Sri Lanka, where he picked up six wickets in two four-day matches as India A won the series 1-0. He had previously been part of the national setup as a back-up net bowler during Indias one-off Test against Afghanistan, but his latest selection marks his first inclusion in the senior Test squad. Nabi said entering the Indian dressing room has been a special experience, particularly because many of the players he is now sharing the nets and dressing room with are those he had watched on television. He had previously been part of the national setup as a back-up net bowler during Indias one-off Test against Afghanistan, but his latest selection marks his first inclusion in the senior Test squad. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will begin their two-match Test series against Sri Lanka at the Galle International Stadium on August 15. Article Source: IANS
Heinrich Malan Returns To Central Stags As Coach
The Ford Trophy: Heinrich Malan returned to the Central Stags as coach on a three-year deal, starting this month, taking over the reins from former captain Greg Hay (last summer's Plunket Shield and Ford Trophy coach - achieving the national title in the latter) and another former Stags batter, Ben F. Smith (Super Smash). Malan's appointment brings an experienced international coach back into New Zealand's domestic setup after a stint that took him well beyond the country's provincial game. His latest assignment ended on a high, having overseen Ireland's remarkable 2-0 T20I series victory over reigning world champions India. His first spell in charge with Stags began in Napier in 2013, when he arrived as a relatively young coach following his playing career in South Africa. He left them several few years later with two titles in the Plunket Shield and The Ford Trophy and the prized 2019 Super Smash trophy after repeat Grand Final appearances. Malan then went on to coach the Auckland Aces for a couple of seasons after that (bringing home more titles) before his first full international appointment as Test nation Ireland's head coach in 2022. His earlier work with Central also left a lasting imprint on players who went on to represent New Zealand. Fast bowler Blair Tickner and spinner Ajaz Patel have both identified Malan as an important influence during their development, underlining the emphasis he placed on refining emerging talent. Malan was then appointed by NZC as New Zealand A's head coach for both internal and overseas tours and seconded to the BlackCaps as a batting coach on a short-term contract as well, before his career move to Ireland. His earlier work with Central also left a lasting imprint on players who went on to represent New Zealand. Fast bowler Blair Tickner and spinner Ajaz Patel have both identified Malan as an important influence during their development, underlining the emphasis he placed on refining emerging talent. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I'm looking forward to getting to know the newer faces there and there is huge satisfaction in putting those lads in a position where they can go out and showcase their skills and contribute, so I can't wait to get my hands dirty again from a training perspective at the domestic level this summer. To coach hands-on is something that genuinely still excites me. I have got a huge fire in my belly for it, he added. Article Source: IANS
Australia register lowest Test score vs Bangladesh after Hasan Mahmud claims six in Darwin
Australia were bundled for only 198 runs in the first innings against Bangladesh in Darwin. Just three days prior to the opening Test, the Najmul Shanto-led side were bowled out for 54 runs against Cricket Australia XI in the practice match and hence, they were expected to be low on confidence and be on the backfoot against a star-studded Australian team. In reality, the Bangladesh pacers, particularly Hasan Mahmud, wreaked havoc.
'You Have To Be Patient In Test Cricket': Saransh Jain On Decade-long Wait For India Call-up
Galle International Stadium: Rewarded for a decade of relentless toil in domestic cricket, Madhya Pradesh off-spinner Saransh Jain said patience have been central to his journey as he finally earned his maiden India Test call-up for the upcoming two-game tour of Sri Lanka. Jain, who made his Ranji Trophy debut in the 2014-15 season, was included in Indias squad for the series against Sri Lanka, with the first Test set to begin at the Galle International Stadium on Saturday. Reflecting on the moment he found out about his selection, Jain said he was on his way to a temple when he noticed a string of calls and messages on his phone. When I got the call, I was in a temple. I was driving there, and I saw a call and messages in between. Then I came to know that I was selected, Jain said in a video shared by the BCCI. The 33-year-old has spent more than a decade playing domestic cricket and said he did not feel overwhelmed after joining the India squad, largely because he has already played with most of his new teammates. Ranji Trophy has an atmosphere. When I joined the team three days ago, I didnt feel much difference. 70-80 per cent of the players I have played cricket with. So I think I have mixed up with all of them, he said. Jain also stressed that patience is essential for anyone aspiring to play Test cricket for India, pointing to his own long wait as an example. You have to be patient in Test cricket. If you want to play Test cricket for India, you have to be patient. I have been patient since I started my career. I made my Ranji Trophy debut in 2014-15. It has been a long journey. It has been a lot of hard work and sacrifices. One day, I will definitely play for India. That was my feeling, he said. Jains family has played a key role in keeping him grounded throughout his career, with his father himself having represented Madhya Pradesh in the Ranji Trophy. My family is behind me. My dad is a Ranji Trophy player. He told me to be patient. Things will come to you automatically, Jain said. Jain, who bats left-handed, has been a regular member of India A sides and has amassed 2,223 runs and 188 wickets in 54 first-class appearances. He spent years on the periphery before enjoying a breakthrough in 2022, when he claimed 13 wickets and scored a crucial fifty in the knockout stages to help Madhya Pradesh win their maiden Ranji Trophy title. My family is behind me. My dad is a Ranji Trophy player. He told me to be patient. Things will come to you automatically, Jain said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He had also served as a net bowler when India faced Afghanistan in New Chandigarh. Now, after years of waiting, Jain is finally on the brink of making his Test debut for India. Article Source: IANS
'Stop Being A Princess': Fan Takes Dig At Steve Smith. This Is The Reason
A fan in attendance during the first Test against Bangladesh delivered a hilarious reply to batter Steve Smith after he halted play momentarily due to sight screen issues at Darwin.
How To Dismiss Vaibhav Sooryavanshi? Harbhajan Singh Reveals Masterplan: 'Will Not Work'
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has stunned the cricketing world with his sensational batting performances in the past one year.
After Agarkar, India Needs A Visionary Chief Selector
To select the best from the abundance of talent in India is no easy task. Talent can win matches, but it is the right selection that will herald a golden era, points out K R Nayar.
Amy Satterthwaite Appointed Canterbury Womens Head Coach
Former New Zealand: Former New Zealand captain Amy Satterthwaite has been appointed head coach of Canterbury Women for the upcoming domestic season, becoming the only woman to lead a New Zealand domestic side this summer. Satterthwaite spent two decades representing Canterbury before ending her playing career after the 2022-23 domestic season. She now returned to the setup where she built much of her cricketing legacy, succeeding Rhys Morgan after his six-year spell in charge. Morgan had guided Canterbury to two Super Smash titles, in 2020-21 and 2022-23, as well as the Hallyburton Johnstone Shield in 2020-21. Satterthwaite called time on her New Zealand career in 2022 before moving into coaching with the Adelaide Strikers in the WBBL, where she took up an assistant coach role. After retiring from domestic cricket, she returned to Canterbury last December in a different capacity as the women's pathway lead. Now, she takes charge of the senior side. Satterthwaite brings a deep understanding of Canterbury's cricketing ecosystem. She played for the province for 20 years and amassed 5,147 runs, a mark that made her the team's leading run-scorer overall before Frankie Mackay eventually moved past her. Her 2,925 T20 runs, meanwhile, remain unmatched by any Canterbury player. Her international credentials are equally significant. Across 15 years with New Zealand, Satterthwaite played 145 ODIs and 111 T20Is, while establishing herself as one of the most influential figures in the country's women's cricket history. One statistic perhaps best captures her place in the record books: Satterthwaite remains the only woman, and one of only two cricketers alongside Kumar Sangakkara, to score centuries in four successive ODIs. Now, she takes charge of the senior side. Satterthwaite brings a deep understanding of Canterbury's cricketing ecosystem. She played for the province for 20 years and amassed 5,147 runs, a mark that made her the team's leading run-scorer overall before Frankie Mackay eventually moved past her. Her 2,925 T20 runs, meanwhile, remain unmatched by any Canterbury player. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Donkers had served as Peter Fulton's assistant before Fulton departed Canterbury midway through last season to take charge of Middlesex. Donkers subsequently guided the side as interim head coach and has now been handed the permanent position. Article Source: IANS
Harbhajan Singh Picks S Sreesanth As His Choice For Roommate, Gives Stunning Reason
The relationship between former Indian cricket team players S Sreesanth and Harbhajan Singh has been quite bitter over the years.
India vs Pakistan At Asian Games 2026? Only 2 Scenarios Can Make It Happen
The Asian Games is scheduled to begin on September 19 and run until October 4, with cricket making its fourth appearance at the event.
SKY-Devisha's First Flight With Baby Girl
Cricketer Suryakumar Yadav and his wife Devisha Shetty celebrated a milestone, taking their daughter Riddhima on her very first flight, just weeks after her birth on May 7, 2026.
Taskin Ahmed's funny dance goes viral after dismissing Cameron Green: WATCH
Bangladesh made an early statement in their first Test in Australia since 2003. The Najmul Shanto-led side left the hosts reeling at 74/4 before the opening session ended in Darwin. Bangladeshs pace attack took advantage...
DPL 2026: South Delhi Superstarz Register Comfortable Win Over East Delhi Riders
For South Delhi Superstarz: South Delhi Superstarz produced a dominant batting performance to defeat East Delhi Riders comfortably by nine wickets in the Delhi Premier League (DPL) 2026. Batting first, East Delhi Riders posted a strong 191/6 in 20 overs, with Sujal Singh and Suryansh Raina playing key roles in the middle and final stages of the innings. The Riders got off to a steady start as Vansh Mehra and Arpit Rana added 54 runs for the first wicket. Mehra scored 27 off 16 balls before his dismissal triggered a mini-collapse. The Riders soon slipped to 102/4, putting their innings under pressure. However, Sujal Singh and Suryansh Raina steadied the innings with a 58-run partnership for the fifth wicket. Raina scored 28 off 26 balls before being dismissed, while Sujal remained unbeaten on a fine 63 off 39 balls to help the Riders finish strongly. For South Delhi Superstarz, Anshuman Hooda was the standout bowler, claiming four wickets for 34 runs in his four overs. Chasing 192, South Delhi Superstarz made a flying start. Openers Sanat Sangwan and Anmol Sharma put together 113 runs in just 11 overs, putting the chase firmly in their control. Both batters scored impressive half-centuries, with Sangwan making 57 off 33 balls before his dismissal. Sharma continued the attack after being joined by Ayush Badoni, who immediately put the Riders under pressure. Chasing 192, South Delhi Superstarz made a flying start. Openers Sanat Sangwan and Anmol Sharma put together 113 runs in just 11 overs, putting the chase firmly in their control. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Delhi Superstarz eventually completed the chase with more than three overs to spare, underlining their dominance with both bat and ball. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh Pacer's Bizarre Celebration Goes Viral During 1st Test Against Australia - Video
Bangladesh cricket team fast bowler Taskin Ahmed came up with a bizarre celebration after dismissing Australia batter Cameron Green on Day 1 of their first Test match.
For That, Shubman Gill Will Always Be Questioned: Ex-India Star Ahead Of Sri Lanka Test Series
Former India cricketer Murali Kartik believes the upcoming Test series against Sri Lanka will be a significant test of Shubman Gill's captaincy.
Satterthwaite to coach Canterbury Women in NZ domestic season
Brendon Donkers takes over as the head coach of Canterbury in the men's circuit
Holder and Netravalkar three-fors set up straightforward win for Patriots
Andre Fletcher led the chase with an unbeaten 41-ball 48 after St Lucia Kings had put up a below-par 156 for 5
1st Test: Bangladesh pacers strike early; Australia in trouble
Bangladesh's pacers claimd early wickets in the first session to leave Australia in trouble at 74/4 in 22 overs at lunch on Day 1 of the first Test at Darwin on Thursday.
World Cup-Winning Captain To Become New CSK Head Coach? R Ashwin Drops Stunning Hint
Former Indian cricket team spinner R Ashwin believes that England's World Cup winning captain Eoin Morgan can replace Stephen Fleming as the Chennai Super Kings head coach.
Quicks give first morning to Bangladesh with four top-order strikes
Hasan Mahmud sent back both openers, while Ebadot Hossain and Taskin Ahmed picked up a wicket each as Australia went to lunch on the first day at a shaky 74 for 4
Afghanistan Post Record ODI Total, Beat Ireland By 42 Runs To Clinch Series
Afghanistan posted their record one-day international score of 343-9 as they thrashed Ireland by 42 runs in Belfast on Wednesday to clinch a five-match series with a game to spare.
'Gill Will Be Questioned Whatever He Does'
'There's a lot of pressure on him, and there's a lot of pressure on this series as well, because it's crucial for India's chances in the WTC.'
Gautam Gambhir's Head Coach Job Safe Or Unsafe? BCCI's Decision Made, 2 Major Factors In Play
India head coach Gautam Gambhir faces intense scrutiny over his position amid poor results in Test cricket and also white-ball cricket of late.
Australia vs Bangladesh 1st Test Live Updates And Live Cricket Score
Australia vs Bangladesh 1st Test Live Updates: Australia won the toss and opted to bat against Bangladesh in the 1st Test of the two-match series on Thursday.
Australia bat first in Darwin, Bangladesh play Ebadot and Mahmud
There could be some early movement on offer with the new ball to test the home side's top order
Phoenix knock MI London out, send Sunrisers into Eliminator
Rebranded defending champions fall short in bid for 59-run, NRR-boosting victory
Lost flair: On India and its Test cricket
India is no longer at its best in Test cricket
England scraps midnight curfew on mens cricket team under new captain Joe Root
The restriction was put in place by England managing director Rob Key after controversial late-night incidents on the winter tours of New Zealand and Australia
Dickwella returns to Sri Lanka Test squad; offspinner Nuwantha gets maiden call-up
Dickwella, who last played a Test against New Zealand in 2023, is in line to make his return to the format after regular wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis was ruled out with an injury
Hayden backs Gill to rise to Test challenge, says India has job to do ahead of WTC final
India is currently fifth in the WTC 2025-27 standings, having won four and lost four of their nine matches, with one draw. Hayden said the teams record highlighted the challenges facing India in the longest format despite their strength in white-ball cricket
Australia vs Bangladesh Live Streaming, 1st Test Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch
Australia vs Bangladesh Live Streaming, 1st Test Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch
Jagadeesan sizzles as Super Gillies revive TNPL campaign
AUS vs BAN 1st Test live streaming details; when and where to watch match in India?
Australia and Bangladesh are set to face each other for the first time in the history of the World Test Championship as the Asian side tours Down Under for a two-match rubber. The last time...
Zadran, Atal tons propel Afghanistan to series win
Balbirnie's ton, Campher blitz not enough as Ireland fall short in 344 chase
APL 2026: Fifties By Nihar, Roshan Power Tezpur Titans To First Win Of Season
Assam Premier League: Tezpur Titans registered their first win of the season, chasing down 159 to beat Barak Legends by seven wickets in the Assam Premier League 2026 at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on Wednesday. A commanding 136-run stand between Nihar Deka and Roshan Topno powered the chase, with the pair putting the Legends bowling attack to the sword. Earlier, Bishal Saha's unbeaten 81-run knock had lifted Legends to a competitive total after a middle-order stumble. Deciding to field after winning the toss, Titans struck twice in the Power-play to reduce Barak Legends to 32/2, with Aman Singh and Subham Mandal both departing cheaply. Shraban Kumar Khound added 18 before falling, and skipper Sibsankar Roy contributed 21, but wickets continued to tumble at the other end. Through it all, Bishal Saha anchored the innings superbly, remaining unbeaten on 81 off 58 balls with seven fours and two sixes. Ayushman Malakar was the pick of the bowlers for Tezpur Titans with 2/33, while Wasim Akram Haque, Danish Ahmed, Abhinav Choudhury, Nihar Deka and Dharani Rabha shared the remaining wickets as Barak Legends posted 158/7 in their 20 overs. In response, Titans lost both openers cheaply, with Wasim Akram Haque out for a duck off the very first ball and Dibash Hazarika following soon after, leaving their side reeling at 6/2. Nihar and Roshan then came together and took the game away from Legends, putting on 136 runs for the third wicket. Nihar struck a scintillating 72 off 44 balls with five fours and five sixes before falling to Abdul Ajij Kuraishi, but Topno continued unabated, remaining unbeaten on 72 off 46 balls with seven fours and three sixes. He dominated proceedings as Tezpur Titans cruised to 159/3 in 17.5 overs to complete a comfortable seven-wicket win and open their account for the season. Brief scores: Barak Legends 158/7 in 20 overs (Bishal Saha 81*, Sibsankar Roy 21; Ayushman Malakar 2/33, Wasim Akram Haque 1/23, Nihar Deka 1/20). Brief scores: Also Read: Live Cricket Score Result: Tezpur Titans beat Barak Legends by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS
India-Pakistan match at Asian Games to carry special significance, traditional way not used
There will be special significance to the India-Pakistan possible match in the Asian Games 2026. The two Asian hog the limelight whenever they are expected to meet in a cricket match. The three matches in...
No Jasprit Bumrah, A Bit of Inexperience: Warning Bell Sounded As India Face Sri Lanka
What is going through Gautam Gambhir's mind? His reputation as a red-ball coach is at stake, and so are India's chances of qualifying for the World Test Championship final
Fire choke in chase as Spirit clinch consolation win
Needing 17 off 15, Fire manage only 10 to miss out on fifth win of season
Who achieved this prominent ranking the most? The post The elite 6 Every year-end No. 1 ODI batter since 2008 appeared first on Cricket365 .
Ellyse Perry hands MI London the wooden spoon
Australian's half-century ended a three-match losing streak for Birmingham Phoenix
England Captain Joe Root Tells Players To Be 'Adults' As He Ditches Curfew
Joe Root said Wednesday there would be no curfew in place during his second spell as England Test captain.Root will lead the England at his Headingley home ground on August 19 in their series opener against Pakistan for their first Test since former skipper Ben Stokes retired from international cricket and Brendon McCullum was sacked as red-ball coach. McCullum, who remains in charge of England's white-ball teams, lost his job after a 2-1 home series loss to New Zealand in June, which followed a disastrous Ashes campaign in Australia. One of the major controversies at the end of the 'Bazball' era was an incident at a London nightclub in June where Stokes and Gus Atkinson were out past a midnight curfew. The pair missed the second Test against New Zealand at the Oval, with Root taking temporary charge of the team. England managing director Rob Key established the curfew, which came about after white-ball captain Harry Brook was fined for an altercation with a bouncer in New Zealand last November. But Root told Sky Sports cricket podcast: There's not going to be a curfew. I don't think this needs to be a big deal, to be honest. My view on curfews is I don't think they work, and if you want guys to take responsibility on the field they've got to be able to feel they can be grown adults off it and make good strong decisions off it. That's for us as a team to manage well, and self-police well, for me and 'Flem' (new red-ball coach Stephen Fleming) to manage well in many ways but ultimately you're grown adults, you know what it takes to play for England, you know what your responsibilities are off the field and we need to make sure we don't find ourselves with any little situations off the field. Root, 35, holds the record for captaining England in the most Tests (65) and to the most wins (27). He skippered the team from 2017 to 2022. We should be known for how we play our cricket and what we do on the field, we should be on the back pages of the newspapers and people reading about that sort of stuff, said Root. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Be adults, look after yourselves, look after each other, create a good strong culture when you know when the right time is to celebrate and enjoy a win or to have a sensible beer or whatever, but remember you're playing for England.
Joe Root Scraps England's Midnight Curfew, Tells Players to Be Adults'
In his second spell as England's Test captain, Joe Root has done away with the midnight curfew imposed on his side and has urged players to behave like grown adults as they prepare for the upcoming series against Pakistan
Sachin Baby has unfinished business in KCL
Pakistan's former Test spinner and ex-chief selector Iqbal Qasim on Wednesday hit out at the current generation of cricketers for not working enough on their skills and game awareness
'No curfew': Joe Root reveals England's new approach
England captain Joe Root has announced there will be no team curfew for the upcoming Test series against Pakistan, expressing trust in his players to act responsibly. This decision comes amidst recent scrutiny over the team's culture following several off-field incidents and player suspensions. Root, who returned to captaincy after Ben Stokes' retirement, believes players should be self-policing.
IPL 2027: Punjab Kings Kick Off Five-day Off-season Camp In New Chandigarh
New International Cricket Stadium: Two-time Indian Premier League (IPL) runners-up Punjab Kings have commenced a five-day off-season training camp at the New International Cricket Stadium in New Chandigarh, with an aim to hone individual player skills ahead of the 2027 season of the ten-team tournament. The camp, which started on August 11, is focused purely on skill development, providing players dedicated time to work on specific aspects of their game away from match-day pressure. The players attending the camp include wicketkeeper-batter Prabhsimran Singh, batting all-rounder Shashank Singh, left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Harpreet Brar, batting all-rounder Pyla Avinash, leg-spinner Praveen Dubey, and middle-order batter Nehal Wadhera. The training is being conducted under the supervision of the franchise's coaching staff, with assistant coach Trevor Gonsalves overseeing the daily drills at the stadium. The setup gives the support staff an opportunity to work closely with players at different stages of their careers. This initial stint is the first in a series of off-season camps planned by the franchise management to keep the squad sharp and game-ready well in advance. More camps targeting different sets of players, with a dual focus on skill fine-tuning and fitness conditioning, will be rolled out over the coming months as the franchise looks to build a strong foundation for the next IPL season. The training is being conducted under the supervision of the franchise's coaching staff, with assistant coach Trevor Gonsalves overseeing the daily drills at the stadium. The setup gives the support staff an opportunity to work closely with players at different stages of their careers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A couple of other franchises are also organising off-season camps for their players. 2008 champions Rajasthan Royals got some of their players to train at their High-Performance Centre in Talegaon, while 2016 winners Sunrisers Hyderabad had a short skill and fitness camp in Chennai. IPL 2020 runners-up Delhi Capitals had a camp for its domestic players at the Just Cricket Academy in Bengaluru, where trials also happened. Article Source: IANS
Gulf Giants Head Coach Simon: Gulf Giants on Wednesday signed South African stars David Miller and Heinrich Klaasen as the franchise picked players in pre-auction signings ahead of the ILT20 Season 5 in Dubai. Afghanistan all-rounder Azmatullah Omarzai and Zimbabwe fast bowler Blessing Muzarabani will also return for the new season. The ILT20 Season 5 will be played from November 22 to December 20, 2026. The quartet brings proven international quality across batting, pace bowling and the all-round department as Gulf Giants, the Adani Sportsline-owned franchise, pursue a second DP World ILT20 title, having won the tournament's inaugural edition in 2023. Speaking on the signings, Gulf Giants Head Coach Simon Helmot said, We are delighted to welcome David and Heinrich to the Gulf Giants family while bringing back Azmatullah and Blessing. They are world-class players and proven match-winners who add tremendous quality and depth to our squad. We've built a strong foundation, and the Player Auction gives us another opportunity to complete our squad as we prepare for Season 5. One of world cricket's most accomplished finishers, Miller brings a wealth of experience, having played 571 T20 matches and scored more than 12,000 runs across international and franchise cricket. He also played a pivotal role in the Gujarat Titans' Indian Premier League (IPL) title-winning campaign in 2022. Compatriot Klaasen arrives with an equally formidable reputation. The explosive wicketkeeper-batter has amassed more than 6,900 runs in 294 T20 matches and will make his DP World ILT20 debut in Season 5. Omarzai impressed in his debut Gulf Giants campaign last season, scoring 233 runs and taking 12 wickets in 10 matches to earn his return for Season 5. Compatriot Klaasen arrives with an equally formidable reputation. The explosive wicketkeeper-batter has amassed more than 6,900 runs in 294 T20 matches and will make his DP World ILT20 debut in Season 5. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gulf Giants will now turn their attention to the DP World ILT20 Season 5 Player Auction, which is scheduled to be held in October, as they complete their squad for the new season. Article Source: IANS
No curfew for Pakistan series, Root tells England players to be 'adults'
'More focused on money': Ex-Pakistan selector slams players
Former Pakistan Test spinner and chief selector Iqbal Qasim has criticised the current generation of Pakistani cricketers for prioritising financial gain, particularly through leagues like the PSL, over dedicated skill development and game awareness, attributing this to a lack of vision among selectors and a general disinterest among young players.
Trade Buzz Around Hardik Pandya Grows After KKR's Mysterious Social Media Post
Hardik Pandya is creating a lot of buzz as IPL trade rumours heat up. The Mumbai Indians captain has failed to replicate his magic touch after returning to his old franchise in IPL 2024 and may exit the team
Root abolishes England's midnight curfew, says 'don't think they work'
On Wednesday, ECB also confirmed the curfew has been dropped, which will also apply across the white-ball sides
Joe Root scraps England team's midnight curfew: Details here
Joe Root, who recently returned as England's Test captain, has scrapped the controversial midnight curfew.
Where Is Kuldeep Yadav? Star's England Snub Revisited As India Face Sri Lanka With WTC On Line
Former India spinner Murali Kartik believes Kuldeep Yadav needs consistency and a clearly defined role in the Test side as the team prepares for a crucial two-match series against Sri Lanka
Why Siraj could be India's secret weapon in Sri Lanka
Mohammed Siraj is poised to lead India's pace attack in the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, stepping into the crucial role in the absence of Jasprit Bumrah.
SL vs IND Tests | India arrives in the Emerald Isle seeking a fresh path in Tests
A spate of retirements, injuries and selectorial interventions has left the squad in a state of flux; coach Gambhir and captain Gill will be looking at the two-Test series as a chance to get over transition blues and chase success
Cristiano Ronaldo's Emotional Response To Lionel Messi's Family Tragedy Draws Praise
On the field, they are the fiercest of competitors. Off the field, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, two of the all-time greats in football, have shown respect for each other
Gay Named In PCC Select XI For Pakistan Warm-up Game Despite Shoulder Injury Scare
PCC Select XI: England opening batter Emilio Gay has been named in a 14-player Professional County Club (PCC) Select XI squad for a three-day warm-up fixture against the touring Pakistan side, starting at Beckenham on Thursday. It is followed by matches between the two teams at Lords (August 27-31) and Edgbaston (September 9-13) respectively. Left-handed batter Gay, 26, suffered an injury scare after retiring hurt with a shoulder issue while batting for Durham in their One-Day Cup match against Middlesex. Gay felt discomfort in his right shoulder after hitting Toby Roland-Jones for four past mid-on, and immediately clutched the joint before signalling for the physio. Despite undergoing a scan, Gay is expected to prove his fitness during the Beckenham encounter ahead of England's three-match Test series against Pakistan, which is a part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, where the hosts are seventh in the standings and the visitors in eighth spot. Sussex all-rounder Tom Haines will captain the PCC Select XI, with former England international Mike Yardy stepping in as head coach. The squad features an exciting mix of young talent alongside international players, including Test players Shoaib Bashir, Matt Fisher, and James Rew, all eager to impress. Despite undergoing a scan, Gay is expected to prove his fitness during the Beckenham encounter ahead of England's three-match Test series against Pakistan, which is a part of the World Test Championship (WTC) cycle, where the hosts are seventh in the standings and the visitors in eighth spot. Also Read: Live Cricket Score PCC Select XI squad: Tom Haines (Captain), Shoaib Bashir, Luc Benkenstein, Caleb Falconer, Matt Fisher, Emilio Gay, Nathan Gilchrist, Josh Hull, Manny Lumsden, James Rew, James Sales, Charlie Tear, Noah Thain, Saif Zaib. Article Source: IANS
'Is he the leader?': Kartik's big Kuldeep question
Former India spinner Murali Kartik has emphasised the need for consistency and a clearly defined role for Kuldeep Yadav in the Test side, especially as Ravindra Jadeja approaches the end of his career. Kartik believes Kuldeep, despite being a match-winner, has not received the sustained backing needed to flourish in Test cricket under previous regimes.
Lawrence and Daly lose England central contracts as Borthwick looks to World Cup
Root lifts midnight curfew on England team
New Test captain Joe Root abolishes the midnight curfew imposed on the England team under predecessor Ben Stokes.
Rocky Flintoff has everything to be fast-tracked into England team: David Lloyd
Rocky Flintoff has everything to be fast-tracked into England team: David Lloyd
Root Scraps Curfew For Test Series Against Pakistan, Urges England Players To 'be Adults'
Sky Sports Cricket Podcast: In his second spell as Englands Test captain, Joe Root has done away with the midnight curfew imposed on his side and has urged players to behave like grown adults as they prepare for the upcoming series against Pakistan, starting at Headingley on August 19. The decision marks a clear departure from the ECB's player behaviour guidelines introduced in July following a string of off-field alcohol-related incidents -- like former captain Ben Stokes and Gus Atkinson were out past a midnight curfew after England won the first Test against New Zealand at Lords. There's not going to be a curfew. I don't think this needs to be a big deal, to be honest. My view on the curfew is that the players are doing their work, and if you want guys to take responsibility on the field, they've got to feel like they can be grown adults and make good, strong decisions off it. That's for us as a team to manage well, and police well for me and (new head coach) Stephen Fleming. We should be known for how we play cricket and what we do on the field. We should be on the back page of papers, Root said in the latest episode of the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast. Underlining the need for a healthy team culture, Root added, Be adults, look after yourselves, look after each other. (We need to) create a good, strong culture where you know when the right time is to celebrate and enjoy a win or to have a sensible beer, but remember -- you've got to play for England. I don't want people to feel like they can't enjoy winning a Test match because they want to have a beer or, at the right time, let their hair down, and then that's absolutely fine. We're human beings at the end of the day. You know what your responsibilities are, you know how you need to prepare for a Test match and what it takes, and the effects that these things can have on you. So be smart, be sensible, and just be an adult. Addressing his relationship with the coaching setup, Root admitted he was disappointed by the departure of former Test coach Brendon McCullum, while expressing enthusiasm for working alongside incoming head coach Stephen Fleming. I'll be honest with you. I was gutted when I found out Brendon was no longer going to be the Test coach. He's someone that I feel has really got the best out of me personally. I love the way he sees the game, and the way that he's opened my eyes up to looking at it slightly differently. I feel like he's a brilliant coach. I'm very glad that we still get to work together in the white-ball stuff. He's someone that I owe a huge amount to, and that I've become pretty close with. I think they're doing brilliant stuff in white-ball teams. And I wish him all the very best in that. Welcoming Fleming to the Test fold, Root said, (Fleming and I) have crossed paths a bit over the last few years when he's coached different teams around the world. I have someone that I've always admired. He's someone that I really did admire as a player. The way that he's always held himself as a captain first and foremost. His record as a coach has been exceptional, albeit in T20 cricket. There's so much that I'm looking forward to in that respect. Reflecting on his first term in charge, Root acknowledged past tactical errors, especially regarding the insane workload of speedster Jofra Archer, and vowed to handle the fast bowler with greater care this time. I think at times maybe I did over-bowl him and over-use him. The attack that he works with now complements him really well. (Now) there are other people that can potentially play a role that I might have used Jofra for in the past. I believe he's a generational talent and someone who is going to produce wonderful things for England across the formats. In Test cricket, he's capable of doing some wonderful things. Clearly, as I said, I didn't get everything right the first time around. I made mistakes, but he's going to be a really important factor in what we do moving forward. I'm very excited to work with him again. Root also addressed the public perception surrounding his return to the leadership role. I think the hardest thing for me will be people's opinion of how I captained four years ago. I think it's very important to remember, and for me to remember more than anything, I'm a completely different player from what I was four years ago. As a player, I've always looked to evolve and move my game forward. In Test cricket, he's capable of doing some wonderful things. Clearly, as I said, I didn't get everything right the first time around. I made mistakes, but he's going to be a really important factor in what we do moving forward. I'm very excited to work with him again. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Asked whether he would welcome a potential Test return for former skipper Ben Stokes ahead of the 2027 Ashes, Root signed off by saying, I don't know -- let's get there first. Article Source: IANS
Joe Root scraps midnight curfew after return as England Test captain
Joe Root scraps midnight curfew after return as England Test captain
APL 2026: Pathak's Fifty Guides Dibrugarh Warriors To Eight-wicket Win Over Nagaon Rangers
Imperial Blue Packaged Drinking Water: Diwiz Pathak's unbeaten half-century guided Dibrugarh Warriors to a comfortable eight-wicket victory over Nagaon Rangers in Match 23 of the Imperial Blue Packaged Drinking Water Assam Premier League 2026 at the ACA Stadium here on Wednesday. Chasing 111, Warriors overcame an early setback to cruise home in 17.3 overs, with Pathak anchoring the innings from the outset. He found good support from Rituraj Biswas as the duo put together an 84-run partnership for the second wicket. Pathak remained unbeaten on 64 off 58 balls, hitting nine fours, while Biswas contributed 33 off 34 balls before being run out in the 14th over. Earlier, Sidhartha Sankar Baruah was the pick of the bowlers with figures of 3/15 as Warriors restricted Rangers to 110 in their 20 overs despite a battling knock from Jitu Ali. Opting to field, Warriors got the ideal start as Ranjan Bikash Das dismissed Sumit Kashyap on the third ball of the match, with the Rangers yet to open their account. Jitu Ali then led the way for Rangers with a hard-fought 42 off 35 balls, striking six fours. Skipper Anurag Talukdar also chipped in with 26 off 30 balls. However, Rangers' innings fell away sharply in the closing stages, with only three batters managing to score in double digits. It was a procession of wickets towards the backend of the innings as Rangers lost their last five wickets for just 19 runs. Baruah finished with impressive figures of 3/15, while Ranjan Bikash Das, Doikho Das, Jitumoni Kalita and Roshan Alam picked up a wicket apiece. Warriors also had a shaky start to their chase, losing Jay Borah inside the first over after Sunil Lachit trapped him lbw. However, Pathak and Biswas ensured that the chase was never in serious doubt thereafter, keeping the scoreboard ticking through clever strike rotation and regular boundaries. Warriors also had a shaky start to their chase, losing Jay Borah inside the first over after Sunil Lachit trapped him lbw. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Nagaon Rangers 110/10 in 20 overs (Jitu Ali 42, Anurag Talukdar 26; Sidhartha Sankar Baruah 3/15, Roshan Alam 1/16) lost to Dibrugarh Warriors 114/2 in 17.3 overs (Diwiz Pathak 64*, Rituraj Biswas 33; Sunil Lachit 1/17) by 8 wickets. Article Source: IANS
India shifts trade strategy, favours PTAs over FTAs with South Africa, Mercosur & others: Official
India will pursue preferential trade agreements with developing economies like South Africa. This approach opens select product categories instead of deep market access. India is also negotiating preferential trade agreements with Mercosur and exploring options with Mexico. The government emphasizes inclusive stakeholder consultations for all trade pacts. This consultative style contrasts with previous trade negotiation practices.
Five players get first England deals in Borthwick shake-up
Asher Opoku-Fordjour, Alex Coles, Guy Pepper, Jack van Poortvliet and Seb Atkinson are handed England central contracts for the first time as Steve Borthwick shakes up his squad.
Can't Play Forever: Matthew Hayden Makes Big Verdict On Rohit Sharma's Commitment, Sends Warning
Former Australia opener Matthew Hayden has made his opinion clear on Rohit Sharma amid the Indian star's bid to make the 2027 World Cup squad.
Women Players Are Hungrier To Learn More Than Men; Their Energy Is Enriching, Says UPW Coach Nayar
Sai Krishnan Grounds: Following a disappointing Women's Premier League (WPL) 2026 campaign, where they managed just two victories in eight matches to finish at the bottom of the points table, UP Warriorz have kicked off their pre-season preparations with an ongoing four-day training camp at the serene-looking Sai Krishnan Grounds in Bengaluru ahead of the 2027 season. The short camp is being helmed by head coach Abhishek Nayar, fielding coach Saurabh Bandekar, mentor Lisa Sthalekar, and newly appointed chief scout, former India spinner and chief selector Neetu David. A key focus for UPW, if they are to excel in WPL 2027, will be fixing their unstable opening partnership, lack of batting contributions from Indian players, and inconsistent fielding. In an exclusive conversation with IANS, Nayar spoke on the objective of the ongoing camp, Neetus signing as chief selector, lessons from his first year as a head coach in womens cricket, and more. Excerpts:- Q. What are some of the primary objectives of this camp which have been ticked off, especially with the likes of Shikha Pandey, Asha Shobhana, G Trisha and Kiran Navgire in attendance? A. I think part of it was that our goals were set at the end of last season, where we had a few discussions and gave our players giveaways on what we thought they could work on. So it's more about tapping into that and seeing how much progress has been made. Then there's also this thought process of having a trial, and we've got Neetu David on board. The kind of players that she's identified that we feel could make a difference to our setup this season - some young, good prospects and this is more an opportunity for us to identify and understand which are those players. One, who could make a difference, and two, for our own players, the kind of growth we've seen so that we can now give them something to take back and work on before the WPL. So they're in a better position, if I could say that, to perform and give ourselves an opportunity in this tournament. Q. With Neetu David joining as UPWs chief scout, how has working alongside her helped accelerate your own understanding of the talent pipeline in womens cricket across the country? A. See, I've just met her and spent very little time with her, so it's very hard for me to sort of say what I've learned so far. But what I can say is that when someone has been the fourth-highest wicket-taker in international womens cricket for India, it just tells you the kind of experience she has of playing the game. Her being in the system for so long provides a great opportunity for me over the next four or five days to gather as much information as I can, specifically to understand what sort of players and characters can step up and make a difference to our team. So that is something that I'm really looking forward to. I'm very keen on picking her brains and just understanding from the different perspectives as to what we can do as a team and what I can do as a coach to impact these girls in WPL. Q. What were the biggest lessons for you in coaching a womens cricket team for the first time via this years WPL? A. Well, I think a couple of things. Addressing a situation compared to mens cricket - it's slightly different for me. There are limitations in a lot of ways in the dressing room that you sometimes want to make sure that you can address in the camps, which is why camps like this are really important. When you come into a system, and you only get a week or 10 days, it's very hard to sort of make an impact for anyone. Then, using the whole year to have such camps where you're constantly touching base with our players makes things easier. To be honest, from a coaching standpoint, when you look at women's cricket, it's exciting because they're so eager to learn and take as much information on board as they can. It's very exciting because sometimes in men's cricket, you have to be very picky and choosy about what you say because they've heard so much. In women's cricket, you just know that everyone's very hungry. You have players who are really, if I could say so, not only aspiring to do well, but motivated to make a name for themselves and to take Indian women's cricket to another level. It's a very different feeling - it's like working with cricketers who are really looking to grab those opportunities. So it's fun, and I would say it's challenging for me personally, because you work so much in men's cricket, and when you come to women's cricket, the questions sometimes are so different. It's so much fun to work with them because it challenges you as well. It's been a very interesting one for me. The field changes are obviously different. The mindset and planning are different. But all in all, I think it's been thoroughly enjoyable for me. Q. You had done camps with UPW and even commented on women's cricket. What motivated you to be very involved in women's cricket now that it's becoming big in India? A. Honestly, I wanted to challenge myself. I've done men's cricket for a very long time, and after nine years with the IPL, I just felt that, from my individual standpoint, I wanted to challenge myself in a very different way. When this opportunity came my way, I obviously thought about it. I felt I should give myself at least a 34 year buffer period just to understand if I can make an impact and if, in those years, I can learn all the things that people have done for so many years in women's cricket. The difference is that when you've played men's cricket, and you coach in it, it's still relatively easier. But when you've not played women's cricket, and then you start watching women's cricket, you still need time to understand tactically how you can help someone become better. Technically, everything remains the same. But in a marquee tournament like that, under pressure, how you can create an environment where people can actually embrace that pressure and do well. So from that standpoint, it was more of a challenge for me. It was so enduring when I did those three-day, four-day camps for me, working with those cricketers. Because, like I said earlier, the enthusiasm and excitement to learn things and the energy of wanting to do more for me was, I think, truly enriching. So I really enjoyed that, and I just felt maybe, you know, give it a shot and see if we can help turn the fortunes of UP Warriorz. Not an easy task, but we're trying our best to do that. Q. From your observations so far, where do you see the quality of women's domestic cricket heading in the next three to five years? A. I think it's been amazing. Just from last year's trials and today, after watching the girls, I was just telling some of my support staff members that there's so much difference between some of the girls, and it's hard to recognise that these girls were the same ones we saw a year ago. There's been so much growth, even in our setup, via the likes of Asha and Shikha. Even now, we can see so much of an improvement in terms of fitness, trajectory, and pace. So it just tells you that, as I said before, the willingness to want to become better, the willingness to push themselves and get better, thanks to WPL, thanks to the exposure that all these girls are getting because of what they are trying to achieve as a team in the state leagues. I just think in years to come, you're going to see women's cricket hit bigger sixes, hit more reverse sweeps, hit different areas, and bowlers are going to bowl with unique actions and bowl a lot quicker than they are now. So I feel Indian cricket is heading in a great space when it comes to women's cricket, and you will see some really exciting talent going forward. Q. After this camp in Bengaluru, are there any more preparatory camps in place for UP Warriorz, and how much do you stay in touch with players in the off-season? A. I think we've stayed in touch. It's a very individual thing. Anyway, in my coaching mantra, I love to do that. So we obviously keep touching base, and you give them a certain roadmap, and you keep following up and seeing what they're doing because the other change in women's cricket is now they play a lot of cricket and they're constantly in camps, constantly playing matches. So a lot of times the developmental phase that they normally would get has been reduced drastically. But you want to make sure you're tapping in all the time and supporting them in whatever way you can. I think UP Warriorz, in that regard, have been terrific through the years, even before I was associated with them. Kshemal Waingankar, who was the COO for a while, has always had this ideology of trying to make an impact for the player, even if it doesn't benefit the team sometimes, but if it can benefit the player, then they go for it. So a lot of times the developmental phase that they normally would get has been reduced drastically. But you want to make sure you're tapping in all the time and supporting them in whatever way you can. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So the thought process is going to be simple. There will be follow-up camps and a lot of individual camps. Once the rain subsides in Mumbai, and whenever the girls are free, we'll get them to Mumbai for short camps based on their schedule. But the idea is continuity and to have a support system for the girls whenever they require it. Article Source: IANS
Gay picked for tour game against Pakistan after shoulder scare
Bashir, Hull and Tear are among the other notable inclusions in the Professional County Club Select XI
CRICKET | Leg-spinner Jhathavedhs apprenticeship with Ashwin has worked wonders
The 26-year-old has made a noticeable change to his load-up, gathering the ball closer to his body allowing him to rip the leg-break a little bit more without hampering the amount of turn for his googly
'Can't play forever': Rohit's 2027 World Cup future in doubt
Former Australian cricketer Matthew Hayden has commented on Rohit Sharma's future in international cricket, particularly concerning the 2027 World Cup. Hayden believes Sharma's decision will hinge on his continued hunger and energy, given his retirement from Tests and T20Is, and the demanding schedule of both IPL and ODI cricket. Despite age-related questions, Sharma has continued to deliver strong performances, notably a century against England.
10 Teams TO Battle IN Finland FOR T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier Spot, Check Schedule
The final stage of the ICC Mens T20 World Cup Europe Sub-Regional Qualifiers gets underway in Finland this week, with 10 nations set to compete from 1421 August for a place in the ICC Mens T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier in 2027. The teams will be split into two groups, with the group winners progressing to the Final. The eventual champion will secure the final available place at the Europe Qualifier next year and a shot at reaching the Global Qualifier for the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2028 in Australia and New Zealand. Hosts Finland will be joined in Group 1 alongside Bulgaria, Isle of Man, Luxembourg and Spain. Group 2 consists of Czechia, Germany, Greece, Israel and Portugal. Finland ready for landmark, localised tournament For Finland, who first hosted an ICC Sub-Regional Qualifier in 2022, the tournament represents a major opportunity to showcase the growth of cricket in the country and welcome some of Europes leading emerging cricket nations. Those ambitions have been bolstered by the ICC providing Finnish commentary for each of Finland's matches, and for the very first time, on ICC.tv and YLE Areena, the online streaming and catch-up service of the Finnish Public Broadcaster. Those and all other matches from the tournament will be streamed live globally on ICC.tv. It makes Finnish the 10th commentary language added to the ICC portfolio, further strengthening the ICCs growing localisation strategy that is making cricket more accessible for fans around the world. On the pitch, both local and international eyes will be drawn to Moises Henriques first outing as Portugal captain, with the 39-year-old former Australia international set to debut for the country of his birth. One last chance to progress The Finland tournament completes a summer of Sub-Regional Qualifiers across Europe, following events in Cyprus in May and Denmark in July. Jersey secured the first qualification place after winning Sub-Regional Qualifier A in Cyprus, while Denmark claimed the second spot by winning Sub-Regional Qualifier B on home soil. The winner in Finland will compete at next years ICC Mens T20 World Cup Europe Qualifier, with Scotland entering directly in recognition of the exceptional circumstances surrounding their participation in the 2026 tournament. Italy and the Netherlands, the remaining European sides who have not already secured qualification to the ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2028, advance directly to the Global Qualifier. ICC Mens T20 World Cup Europe Sub-Regional Qualifier C | Fixtures Friday, 14 August 2026 Spain vs. Finland Kerava National Cricket | Ground | 11:00 EEST Portugal vs. Israel | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Isle of Man vs. Luxembourg | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Germany vs. Czechia | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Saturday, 15 August 2026 Czechia vs. Greece | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Spain vs. Isle of Man | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Germany vs. Portugal | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Finland vs. Bulgaria | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Monday, 17 August 2026 Israel vs. Germany | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Bulgaria vs. Isle of Man | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Greece vs. Portugal | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Luxembourg vs. Spain | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Tuesday, 18 August 2026 Greece vs. Germany | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Finland vs. Luxembourg | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Czechia vs. Israel | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Bulgaria vs. Spain | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Thursday, 20 August 2026 Luxembourg vs. Bulgaria | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Portugal vs. Czechia | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Isle of Man vs. Finland | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Israel vs. Greece | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST Friday, 21 August 2026 Also Read: Live Cricket Score 3rd Place Play-Off | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST 7th Place Play-Off | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 11:00 EEST Final | Kerava National Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST 5th Place Play-Off | Tikkurila Cricket Ground | 16:00 EEST
The era of 'randomly scheduled' bilaterals 'has to come to an end,' says ICC CEO
Jonty Rhodes says ODIs
'I Disagree': Matthew Hayden's Strong Verdict On Vaibhav Sooryavanshi's Future
Former Australian veteran opener Matthew Hayden believes India's young batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has the potential to excel in both short and long formats
Babar Azam ends near two-year wait in ICC rankings after guiding Pakistan to win over West Indies
Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam on Wednesday ended his near two-year wait for a place in the top 10 of the ICC Test batters' rankings. Babar has been rewarded for his recent performance in the...
What makes Vaibhav Sooryavanshi special
Former Australian opener Matthew Hayden has lauded young Indian batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, highlighting his courage, mental strength, and ability to perform under pressure. Hayden believes the 15-year-old has the potential to excel in both short and long formats of cricket, despite his recent T20I and IPL successes. Sooryavanshi's impressive performances, including a Player of the Series award in T20Is and a record-breaking IPL season, underscore his immense talent.
Sony Sports Network: Former India left-arm spinner Murali Kartik believes the upcoming Test series in Sri Lanka starting on Saturday will be crucial in establishing Indias next generation of spin bowlers, as veteran left-arm spin bowling all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja approaches the twilight of his international career. With the likes of Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Ajinkya Rahane, Cheteshwar Pujara and Ravichandran Ashwin retired, India's red-ball squad is navigating a major transition. Though Jadeja is still around, Indias quest to reach the WTC final will also hinge on how the likes of Kuldeep Yadav, Manav Suthar and newbie Saransh Jain fare in Galle and Colombo. Firstly, it is a crucial tour, very important from the point of view of not just the spinners alone - also the WTC because if we are serious about Test cricket. At number five, our fortunes haven't been great in red ball cricket of late, which is well-documented and everyone knows it. From a spin point of view, yes, absolutely important because Ravindra Jadeja, as good as he has been for Indian cricket, he is in his, -in a sense, I would say, the twilight years of his career. From that point of view, Manav Suthar, the way he came in and bowled against Afghanistan was very heart-warming for any old-school spinner who has or knows Indian cricket, it was very important, Kartik told IANS in an interaction facilitated by Sony Sports Network on Wednesday. He further highlighted the pressing question surrounding Kuldeeps role as India seek a spin-bowling leader once Jadeja steps away. Kuldeep finds himself in a precarious situation - having spent years as an understudy to Ashwin and Jadeja, the left-arm wrist-spinner has been kept out by team combinations and injuries. Its evident from Test appearances standing at just 18 since his debut in 2017. Even after Ashwin's retirement, Kuldeep has played only five Tests and claimed one five-wicket haul, with Washington Sundar frequently preferred ahead of him. Now, Kuldeep faces fresh competition from young Suthar, who took a seven-wicket haul in the one-off game against Afghanistan in June. Look, Kuldeep Yadav has been a match-winner for India. But, unfortunately for him, it played out differently when he had Rohit Sharma and Rahul Dravid at the helm. Now, he has not got that kind of a run-in. When you think of what happened in England, everybody kept saying during the course of those five Test matches, Where is Kuldeep? Where is Kuldeep? And Kuldeep didn't play - he was sitting out. So, it's very important from that point of view as now that Ravindra Jadeja is in the twilight of his career, is he the leader? Or is it going to be someone else? Because it is, as you rightly said, very, very difficult. So, to get that in and also, as you pointed out, the spinners - look at the number of wickets those two guys have taken. After the likes of Anil and Harbhajan, Ashwin and Jadeja, depending on what the team management wanted, one of them was always playing. Those are very, very big shoes to fill. So, can Kuldeep Yadav be the leader? I think we will find out during the course of this series because it's very important, he explained. Kuldeep looked a little far from his best self against Afghanistan and lack of game time meant he turned out for Yorkshire in the one-day cup. Although Kuldeep showed encouraging signs in India's warm-up game win in Colombo, questions remain over whether the starting eleven opportunity will open up for him in Galle. Addressing the mental strain on specialist spinners like Kuldeep who face sporadic game time varied reasons, Kartik stressed on the need of proper man-management over batting ability. Look, I don't think he is not a rabbit with the bat. He is somebody who can definitely hold the bat and we have seen him bat as a night watchman. He has occupied the crease for long periods of time. Maybe he doesn't have the hitting ability or that kind of ability which you get from Ravindra Jadeja and Ashwin. So, I wouldn't look at him from that point of view. You have to look at him solely as a spin bowler and he is a wonderful bowler. He is a match winner. We have seen him pick wickets in different countries. That is the hallmark of a good spinner. The key is that he needs to be handled well. We have seen Kuldeep Yadav have his share of injuries. He has come from a groin injury and tried to make his way back. Again, every time we talk about him playing, he has not featured. So, you want a bit of consistency for Kuldeep Yadav. As a bowler and as a spinner, you want to know that you are going to be a certainty, then you work very differently. When you are treated like you are the match winner, then that's the kind of stuff which you get from a bowler like that. It's about making any bowler, any player feel wanted and that's what I have always believed. You can get the best out of him. It's again human resources handling. Even for a player, it might be cricket, but it's still emotions. Humans are involved and you want to make them feel good. I just hope that if you handle Kuldeep Yadav really well, you are going to get the best out of him, he explained. Analysing the Sri Lankan line-up, Kartik warned the hosts could target Indias batters, especially with left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya in prime form. Look, Prabath Jayasuriya is a pretty good bowler. I think he has been one of their better bowlers off late. Having seen India bat against spin off late, every team might want to attack India. Can you think of an Indian team being attacked by spin? Nobody would have thought like that. But again, given the conditions too, if it's going to be pretty warm, you're not going to get huge spells or long spells from fast bowlers. And it will be interesting to see because the two venues are Galle and SSC, Colombo. So, SSC the last time around spun a bit more than the other place where Wriddhiman Saha kept brilliantly when India went. Analysing the Sri Lankan line-up, Kartik warned the hosts could target Indias batters, especially with left-arm spinner Prabath Jayasuriya in prime form. Look, Prabath Jayasuriya is a pretty good bowler. I think he has been one of their better bowlers off late. Having seen India bat against spin off late, every team might want to attack India. Can you think of an Indian team being attacked by spin? Also Read: Live Cricket Score They've had a lot of reserve spinners in the touring party, helping the team out, and playing against them would be of immense help. I know match time is very different from nets time. But still, what you can do from your end is prepare well. So, I'm hoping that they're better prepared come these two Test matches, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Retirement Due To Neck Injury: English All-Rounder Danny Lamb Ends Career At 30
Sussex all-rounder Danny Lamb has announced his retirement from professional cricket at the age of 30 after a serious neck injury brought his career to an untimely end.
David Miller eyes fairytale ODI World Cup farewell
South African batting stalwart David Miller has expressed his strong desire to win the 2027 ODI World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa. He aims to finish his career on a high note by lifting the trophy in front of home fans. Miller also reflected on his career as a middle-order finisher and highlighted his most memorable innings.
Sussex All-rounder Danny Lamb Calls Time On Career At 30 After Neck Injury
Danny Lamb: Sussex all-rounder Danny Lamb has announced his retirement from professional cricket at the age of 30 after a serious neck injury brought his career to an untimely end. Lamb suffered a disc herniation in his neck earlier this season, leading to an injury to his spinal cord. Although surgery was performed last month, the right-arm bowler has continued to experience the consequences of the injury and has now decided to step away from the game following medical advice. The decision ends a professional career spanning more than a decade, during which Lamb represented both Lancashire and Sussex and became a valuable contributor across formats. It is incredibly difficult to have my career end through injury. After taking medical advice I know it is the right decision for my long-term health. It has been a privilege to spend over a decade in the professional game, and I am extremely grateful to have represented both Lancashire and Sussex. I was never the most naturally gifted player, but I always tried to give everything for the team and do whatever was required to help us win, and I have been fortunate to experience some incredible moments that will stay with me forever, Lamb was quoted by BBC Sport. Lamb's career included 93 appearances for Lancashire across all formats before his move to Sussex in 2023. His first-class record included eight wickets at an average of 33.13, while he registered a career-best score of 134. His final months as a professional were disrupted by the injury. Lamb has not played for Sussex since early June, when the Sharks recorded the only home victory of their T20 Blast campaign, against Kent. At Sussex, Lamb played an important role in the club's recent progress, contributing to their promotion to Division One of the County Championship and their run to Finals Day in the Blast. His final months as a professional were disrupted by the injury. Lamb has not played for Sussex since early June, when the Sharks recorded the only home victory of their T20 Blast campaign, against Kent. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It is always a sad day when any professional athlete has to retire from the sport they love; it's even harder when it is because of injury. Danny sadly is not able to continue his career and I would like to thank him for his high level of commitment and skill that he has dedicated to his time at Hove. Danny played a leading role in our promotion to Division One in the County Championship and us getting to Finals Day in the Blast. Article Source: IANS
ODI cricket's future hinges on this major ICC plan
The era of 'randomly' scheduling bilateral series is over, but the ODI format can continue to survive and thrive with its place 'inextricably' linked to the World Cup, said ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta in an interview to PTI.
Sports Ministry Suspends Table Tennis Federation of India: Here's What Happened
The Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has suspended the recognition of the Table Tennis Federation of India (TTFI) on Wednesday. The Ministry cited serious governance related concerns. It directed the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) to set up
The era of andomly scheduling bilateral series is over but the much-debated ODI format can continue to survive and thrive with its place inextricably linked to the World Cup, ICC CEO Sanjog Gupta has asserted.
Bangladesh Get Litton Das Fitness Boost For Daunting Australia Task
Bangladesh captain Najmul Hossain Shanto Wednesday declared wicketkeeper Litton Das 100 percent fit for the first Test against Australia while suggesting the tourists could play two spinners.
Shubman Gill is set to lead India in their upcoming two-match Test series against Sri Lanka, and former pacer Chaminda Vaas has predicted how he'll fare.
Andrew Flintoff's Son Rocky Hits First Professional Century For Lancashire
Rocky Flintoff, son of former England all-rounder Andrew Flintoff, scored his first senior professional century for Lancashire in their One-Day Cup victory over Somerset.
South Africa seeks repayment from African nations for mass migrant returns
South Africa seeks repayment from African nations for mass migrant returns
Number of children injured in e-scooter crashes in England surges
Pakistan Batter Babar Azam Returns To ICC Test Batting Top 10 Rankings After Two Years
Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam has returned to the top 10 of the ICC Men's Test Batting Rankings after two years following his team's eight-wicket win over the West Indies.
Sussex allrounder Danny Lamb retires at 30 on medical advice
Danny Lamb underwent neck discectomy and fusion surgery last month after spinal-cord injury
