Cricket

Pretorius and Allen batter Freedom and take Unicorns to the top

Andries Gous' unbeaten 83 had given Washington Freedom a solid 190 for 4, but Lhuan-dre Pretorius and Finn Allen smashed 102 in 5.4 overs to make it a cakewalk

'Burnt Out' Ben Stokes Leaves England Facing Tricky Questions

What happens next? That is the awkward question facing English cricket after Ben Stokes announced his retirement from international duty in the middle of a Test match. Stokes explained on Sunday that he felt burnt out after four years as England's Test captain following an extraordinary day of drama in the third match of the series against New Zealand at Trent Bridge. Replacing him in the England set-up, both as captain or as a match-winning all-rounder, is going to be all but impossible. The announcement of the impending end of Stokes' England career came as the 35-year-old was involved in a marathon bowling spell, with the series on the line. It was the start of a scarcely credible sequence of events. The crowd in Nottingham gave Stokes a standing ovation before the skipper took a wicket with his next delivery -- a stark example of his ability to impact a game by sheer force of will as well as skill. Despite his heroics, the visitors were able to set England a stiff victory target of 373 after Daryl Mitchell's gutsy century. Stokes later promoted himself to open England's innings even though he is normally a middle-order batsman. He blazed his way to a tempestuous 30 off 20 balls, including two sixes, before he holed out -- showing little of the calculated risk-taking that underpinned some of his greatest innings. Stokes, who walked off to more applause, had played his last on-field role in an international career spanning 15 years. At stumps England had slumped to 103-4, facing defeat and a 2-1 series loss on Monday. The timing of the captain's announcement and his decision to promote himself to the top of the order, left him open to accusations of self-indulgence. - 'Draining' - But if the all-rounder has had enough, perhaps it is no surprise. England suffered a chastening 4-1 Ashes loss in Australia in a series that ended in January and Stokes needed major facial surgery after being hit by a ball the following month. Then came a written warning following a disciplinary incident at a London nightclub after England's win in the first Test against New Zealand, which led to his omission from the second match of the series. I'll never begrudge any moment where I've walked this team out, Stokes told Sky Sports after stumps. It's simply the greatest honour you could ever put on your shoulders as a player. But he added: As good as it is, there are bits where it does get to you, it does drain you, it does affect you in a negative way. Reflecting on England's victory in the first Test at Lord's, he said: I put so much time and effort into it I maybe, potentially burnt myself out. Everyone I spoke to about the day it (retirement) happens, they just say it kicks you straight in the face. And I thought a few weeks ago that it did. As I was putting my pads on (on Saturday) getting ready to go out there, that was the last nail in the coffin. Stokes, whose international career was interrupted by a nightclub incident in 2017 that ended with his acquittal on a charge of affray, intends to play on with his county side Durham. Being back at Durham, I found not a reconnection but a new lease of life in my affection towards cricket, he explained. And then I just couldn't get that same feeling back here this week (at Trent Bridge), as much as I was trying. England looked a badly imbalanced team in the second Test at the Oval, with his predecessor as England captain Joe Root leading the side to a heavy defeat. Harry Brook is the official vice-captain but was left in the ranks after his altercation with a nightclub bouncer in New Zealand ahead of the Ashes -- an incident that led to the imposition of the curfew Stokes breached in London. Brook on Sunday tried to follow his skipper's lead with the attacking Bazball batting that has been a hallmark of England's style since Stokes and coach Brendon McCullum teamed up in 2022. He flayed his first ball for six and holed out off his ninth, prompting former England skipper Michael Atherton to write in The Times: He is not the Test captain in waiting. Also Read: Live Cricket Score But then, who is?

Ben Stokes Announces Shock England Exit As New Zealand Eye Series Win

England captain Ben Stokes stunned the cricket world by announcing his upcoming retirement from international duty in the middle of a Test match on Sunday. But prospects of a victorious farewell were slim as New Zealand closed in on a series-clinching win. Stokes confirmed he would end his celebrated England career after the ongoing third and final Test in Nottingham, adding more drama to a three-match series locked at 1-1. But Daryl Mitchell's 100 not out took New Zealand to 288-9 declared and left England requiring 373 for victory on a wearing pitch. At stumps, however, England were 103-4 -- with Stokes out after opening the innings in another surprise move -- and needing 270 more runs to win. Stokes's announcement was made public shortly before tea on the fourth day with the 35-year-old, one of the outstanding all-rounders of his generation, having informed his team-mates before the start of Sunday's play. He was in the middle of a lengthy bowling spell, with news filtering into a stunned crowd -- who gave him a standing ovation -- as he was about to start his 11th over. And in a moment of pure sporting theatre, Stokes had Zak Foulkes caught at slip with his next ball to spark yet more raucous cheers. Stokes -- normally a middle-order batsman -- then came out to open the innings for just the third time in his 122-Test career. Stokes signalled his intentions with a fierce drive off his first ball faced before he was dropped soon afterwards. He later lofted New Zealand's Foulkes for a legside six and cleared the ropes again when he slog-swept seamer Nathan Smith. But Stokes was out for 30 off 20 balls when he slogged Foulkes to wide mid-on, with England 50-1. Four balls later, Jacob Bethell was lbw to Foulkes for a duck and before stumps of a frantic final session both Harry Brook and first-innings century-maker Ben Duckett had been dismissed as well. Sunday's shock announcement came after Stokes returned to England duty at Trent Bridge following the fall-out from a London nightclub incident also involving teammate Gus Atkinson earlier this month. The pair were omitted from England's 253-run defeat in the second Test at the Oval for breaking a midnight curfew while celebrating following the first-Test win over New Zealand. - 'Burned myself out' - England's 4-1 Ashes series loss in Australia, concluded in January, was also marred by allegations of a drinking culture. God, it's been an interesting four or five weeks, six months in general, Stokes told Sky Sports after Sunday's close. There's all types of emotions when this day comes, there's relief, there's happiness, there's excitement, there's sadness, there's everything that you go through. Since the Ashes it's been really tough. Stokes, appointed England skipper in 2022, added: It's the best thing I've ever been asked to do, captain this team and captain this country. But there's another side to it all that people don't see and don't understand. Only people close to those people can see it. As good as it is, there are bits where it does drain you, and does affect you in an emotional way. Stokes said the timing of his retirement owed much to the negative feelings he experienced from the fall-out of the nightclub incident after he tried to get England back on track at Lord's. I'd worked so hard from getting back home to try and make things right, that's what I thought I was doing, he said. I put so much time and effort into it potentially I burned myself out. Earlier, Mitchell batted for more than six-and-a-half hours, facing 241 balls including 10 fours after suffering several painful blows from England's pace attack He also shared a fourth-wicket stand of 129 with Rachin Ravindra, who fell short of a century when dismissed for 94 and also received good support from tailender Ben Sears. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sears, having retired hurt, returned at the fall of the ninth wicket to ensure Mitchell, on 92, could complete his hundred.

Kemar Roach's 300th Wicket Headlines West Indies' Innings Win Over Sri Lanka

Kemar Roach reached the landmark of 300 Test wickets in leading the West Indies to an innings and 217-run demolition of Sri Lanka on the fourth day of the first Test of a two-match series at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Sunday. Trailing on first innings by 318 runs, the visitors were routed for just 101 half-an-hour after lunch as Roach led the fast bowlers' assault on Sri Lanka. His international career seemed over a year ago, only to be recalled to West Indies service amid a fast bowlers' injury crisis for the tour of New Zealand at the end of 2025. In his first Test since returning, the 37-year-old took second-innings figures of four for 51. He became just the fifth West Indian to claim 300 wickets in the traditional format of the game when he bowled Asitha Fernando comprehensively to put his team one wicket away from victory. It's been a long journey, said a relieved Roach in reflecting on his Test debut 17 years earlier. It took a lot to be here, a lot of people supporting me, especially (physiotherapist) Dennis Byam. It took a lot of effort from him to get me back on the park coming back from injury. When asked if the second and final Test, starting on Friday at the same venue, might be his farewell performance, Roach said: Check me in the morning. Right now, we just want to celebrate this win... and then discussions will be had. Jayden Seales, celebrated as the heir apparent to Roach as the leader of the West Indies pace attack, formalised the result when he shattered the stumps of last man Lahiru Kumara to finish with innings figures of three for 14. Only former Sri Lanka captain Dinesh Chandimal offered any resistance to the West Indies pace battery with a top score of 43 before he was taken by John Campbell at first slip off Roach just after lunch, effectively signalling the end for the tourists. We thought we had enough runs on the board in the first innings, said a rueful Sri Lankan captain Dhananjaya de Silva. We were without one of our key bowlers (seamer Kumara) and that was a big setback for us. If we have to come back in the second Test we need to have a better bowling attack that can take 20 wickets. For Roston Chase, this was his first win since being appointed to the helm a year ago. This is a like a dream come true to see our plans executed so well in this match, said the captain of the West Indies' second-largest margin of victory by an innings, surpassed only by the innings and 219-run thrashing of Bangladesh at the same venue in 2018. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This was the West Indies' first Test victory since a series-levelling triumph against Pakistan in Multan 17 months ago, as well as their first home win since defeating Bangladesh in Kingston, Jamaica, in November 2024.

ZIM vs BAN: Zimbabwe Dominate First Day Of Bangladesh Test

Zimbabwe took first-day honours in a one-off Test against Bangladesh on Sunday thanks to opener Innocent Kaia and left-arm quick Newman Nyamhuri. Nyamhuri took four wickets as Bangladesh collapsed to 140 all out after losing the toss at Harare Sports Club. An unbeaten 76 from Kaia then lifted Zimbabwe to 136 for the loss of one wicket as the hosts seek to follow up a Test win in Bangladesh last year with another victory. Bangladesh, fresh from a 2-0 series win over Pakistan in the longest format, arrived in southern Africa confident of winning, with captain and batter Najmul Hossain Shanto in top form. But only Mominul Haque (60), Shadman Islam (20) and Shanto (19) reached double figures in a dismal batting performance. The last seven wickets fell for a meagre 27 runs. Haque was dismissed after failing to get sufficient contact on a Nyamhuri delivery and former captain Craig Ervine took a simple catch at second slip. Nyamhuri (4-61) was ably supported by new skipper Richard Ngarava (2-18), Blessing Muzarabani (2-19) and Brad Evans (2-30). After the early losses of openers Mahmudul Hasan Joy (2) and Islam, Haque stabilised the innings adding 77 runs for the third wicket, leaving the tourists 113-3 after 33.4 overs. The Zimbabwe bowlers than wreaked havoc, starting with the wicket of Shanto, whose recent knocks included four centuries. In response, Zimbabwe had 89 runs on the scoreboard before Ben Curran (42) departed, edging the ball to Shanto at second slip off the bowling of Khaled Ahmed. Kaia, whose 108-ball stand included nine fours, then put on 47 runs with veteran Brendan Taylor (17 not out). Brief scores Bangladesh 140 in 47.2 overs (Mominul Haque 60, Shadman Islam 20; N. Nyamhuri 4-61) v Zimbabwe 136-1 in 34 overs (I. Kaia 76 not out, B. Curran 42) Also Read: Live Cricket Score Toss: Zimbabwe

India Knocked Out Of ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 As Australia Hand 6-Wicket Defeat At Lord's

India's wait for a maiden ICC T20 Women's World Cup title continues as the Women in Blue were knocked out by Australia on Sunday. Harmanpreet Kaur and Co needed a win at Lord's to qualify for the semi-final but suffered a 6-wicket defeat despite a half-century from their captain.

Hasabnis and Deol take India A past England A in first one-dayer

Pratika Rawal, Niki Prasad and Minnu Mani played key roles for India A too, while Grace Scrivens and Charis Pavely impressed with the bat for England A

'He Clearly Has A Talent Though...': Iceland Cricket Mocks Gambhir After Ireland Series Debacle

T20 World Cup: Iceland Cricket kept the social media sparks flying and delivered yet another classic viral jab, this time targeting India men's cricket coach Gautam Gambhir following India's humiliating T20I series loss to Ireland. Ireland's greatest triumph in cricket, a 2-0 blanking of double world champions, ended India's unbeaten run, which spanned 16 series and nearly three years. Seizing the moment, Iceland Cricket took to X to playfully rub salt into the wounds of men in blue, calling out head coach Gautam Gambhir. We can confirm that we don't wish to add Gautam Gambhir to our coaching staff. He clearly has talent, though. To take those Indian players and deliver those results in Ireland takes truly remarkable gifts, Iceland Cricket posted on X. The sarcasm pointed towards India's star-studded lineup, which included World Cup winners Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma, succumbed to Ireland's exceptional bowling performance. Notably, India remained unbeaten in every T20I series since Gambhir took charge in 2024, a streak that ended on Sunday. Under his stewardship, India have whitewashed Sri Lanka (3-0) and Bangladesh (3-0) at home, triumphed 3-1 in South Africa, and edged England 4-1 at home. They also registered a 2-1 series win in Australia and beat New Zealand 4-1 at home. The sarcasm pointed towards India's star-studded lineup, which included World Cup winners Sanju Samson, Ishan Kishan and Abhishek Sharma, succumbed to Ireland's exceptional bowling performance. Also Read: Live Cricket Score However, Ireland broke a winless run against India in the opening T20I by registering their first-ever win over reigning world T20 champions by 34 runs; they picked up where they left off in the second T20I and scripted their historic first-ever series win over the Men in Blue. Article Source: IANS

Shanaka's blitz hands Knight Riders another defeat

The batters let Los Angeles Knight Riders down against Seattle Orcas after their bowlers, led by Sunil Narine, Fabian Allen and Jason Holder, had set up a 155-run chase

Had Some Important And Productive Discussions With BCCI Functionaries In London: Devajit Saikia

Delhi District Cricket Association: Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) secretary Devajit Saikia held productive discussions with board functionaries in London ahead of India's white-ball series against England, starting July 1. Saikia, who took to social media to share the update, wrote, Had some important and productive discussions with BCCI functionaries in London today on matters concerning Indian cricket... Looking forward to the road ahead. The meeting also saw the presence of Delhi District Cricket Association (DDCA) president and BCCI infra committee chief Rohan Jaitley. The BCCI secretarys social media post came at a crucial juncture when a reigning T20 world champion Indian men suffered a 0-2 series loss to Ireland, while the women's team failed to make it past the group stage after losing to Australia in their final group game at Lord's Cricket Ground. Backing up their first ever win over India in internationals on Friday, Ireland scripted an epic 1-run win in the second T20I on Sunday, spearheaded by three-fers from the pace duo of Jai Moondra and Matthew Hollard. The T20Is in Ireland was India's first since their T20 World Cup triumph earlier this year. With Shreyas at the helm of the T20I side, it marked the start of a new phase for India in the shortest format, especially with the Los Angeles Olympics and the next Mens T20 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand in 2028. Backing up their first ever win over India in internationals on Friday, Ireland scripted an epic 1-run win in the second T20I on Sunday, spearheaded by three-fers from the pace duo of Jai Moondra and Matthew Hollard. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The ODI squad will be led by Shubman Gill, while Shreyas will be his deputy. The three-match ODI series will see the return of talismanic batter Virat Kohli, who missed the recently concluded ODI series against Afghanistan due to a hamstring injury he sustained during IPL 2026. However, his participation is subject to fitness clearance. Article Source: IANS

'Disbelief' in India camp after a failure to adapt to 'fantastic' Ireland

Assistant coach Ryan ten Doeschate said the side had been slow to respond to a different set of conditions, including the wind

Tector: Never been involved in a bigger accomplishment

While it can be debated whether it was Irish cricket's greatest result, without doubt it has been the sport's greatest week

Wimbledon 2026 | Emma Raducanu withdraws with leg injury

The 23-year-old former U.S. Open champion announced the decision on the eve of her first-round match

Bell-Drummond, Billings star in chase after Stewart four-for

James Vince smacks 84 but Hampshire fall away in second half

Munsey, Linde extend Notts dominance in 74-run win

Leicestershire outmuscled at Grace Road as visitors head towards knock-outs

Lees lays waste to Middlesex with matchwinning hundred

Hosts slump to 100-run loss after powerhouse hundred at Richmond

Revis fireworks salvage thrilling tie as Derbyshire's winning streak ends

Yorkshire end run of nine consecutive Blast losses to rivals in Chesterfield cracker

Wraith stars for Warwickshire as Lancashire fall short in thriller

Tilly Kesteven scores 73 off 55 balls but Mary Taylor holds nerve in final over

Root, Stokes defend attempts to 'cause chaos' in chase

England still hoping to give captain perfect send-off despite being four down chasing 373

Ben Stokes: 'I didn't have any more fight left in me' after Ashes loss

England captain says he was burnt out even before Lord's Test which culminated in nightclub episode

Tector and Moondra headline Ireland's historic series sweep against India

Ireland defended 154 to end India's unbeaten run that spanned 16 series and nearly three years

'Just want to bask in this moment' - Roach toasts 300th Test wicket

Roach became the fifth West Indies bowler to pick up 300 Test wickets

Resurrection Game: Can Serena and Djokovic turn back the clock?

At Wimbledon 2026, the American great will return to competitive singles after a near four-year absence while the Serb will look to win his first Major since the 2023 US Open. At 44 and 39, age is not on their side. Skill, experience and pedigree will, however, not be in short supply

Women's T20 WC: 'It Was A Really Special Day For Everyone,' Says Perry After Australia's Historic Win

T20 World Cup: Australia all-rounder Ellyse Perry described her side's record-breaking victory over India at Lord's as a really special day for everyone after guiding the six-time champions into their fifth consecutive win of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 with a match-winning performance on Sunday. Perry was named Player of the Match after scoring a fluent 56 off 38 balls as Australia chased down 171 with six wickets in hand, completing the highest successful run chase in Women's T20 World Cup history. Her crucial partnership with Ashleigh Gardner, who remained unbeaten on 53, sealed Australia's place in the last four while ending India's semifinal hopes. Reflecting on the occasion, Perry said playing at the iconic Lord's in front of a packed crowd made the victory even more memorable. Just an incredible atmosphere and amazing support from the crowd. The opportunity to play here at Lord's against India in an amazing game, the battle... so, yeah, a really special day for everyone. Really appreciate everyone who came out to support us today and made it such a fun day, Perry said after receiving the Player of the Match award. Perry said Australia believed the target was achievable on a good batting surface and knew one substantial partnership through the middle overs would be enough to put the chase on track. We felt like it was a pretty good wicket. We just needed a strong partnership through the middle there to get us a good platform for the back end, she said. The experienced all-rounder reserved special praise for Gardner, whose aggressive approach ensured Australia maintained momentum throughout the chase. I thought Ash was superb. She targeted the first six balls, which was great. She regularly found the boundary off those balls, and I think that always gives you a strong footing in the over. Then we were able to go with her to get a bit of momentum. Ash was superb, Perry said. Looking ahead to the knockout stage, Perry said Australia have enjoyed every aspect of the tournament and are eager for the challenges ahead. I think it's been a wonderful tournament so far. Every venue that we've played at has had a great atmosphere and crowds. The cricket has been brilliant. There have been a few upsets as well, and various matches have gone right down to the wire. So it's been such a fun tournament to be part of so far. Looking ahead to the knockout stage, Perry said Australia have enjoyed every aspect of the tournament and are eager for the challenges ahead. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, after finishing the group on top with 10 points, Australia will face the West Indies in the first semi-final at the Kennington Oval on Tuesday. Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: Perrys Actions Speak Louder Than Words, Says Molineux After Record Chase Against India

T20 World Cup: Australia captain Sophie Molineux hailed veteran all-rounder Ellyse Perry for backing up her confidence with a match-winning innings after her side completed the highest successful run chase in Womens T20 World Cup history to eliminate India and seal a semifinal berth at Lords on Sunday. Chasing 171 in a crucial Group stage clash, Australia recovered from an early setback to cruise home with six wickets in hand and an over to spare. Perry led the charge with a fluent 56 off 38 balls, while Ashleigh Gardner remained unbeaten on 53 as the pair shared the decisive partnership that ended Indias hopes of reaching the last four. Molineux revealed that Perry had set the tone for the chase during the innings break itself, assuring her teammates that Indias total was well within reach. Pez (Perry) brought us in after the first innings. She said 170 is very, very gettable. Her actions speak louder than words. She went out there, led from the front alongside Ash, and set the tone with the bat. It was great to watch, Molineux said after Australias victory. The Australian skipper said the experienced duo executed the chase perfectly by making the most of the conditions and keeping the pressure firmly on Indias bowlers. They both batted beautifully. They made the most of the conditions, used their experience and skills really well, targeted the shorter boundary when the opportunities came, and ran brilliantly between the wickets. They just got all the little things right, and that allowed them to build a really important partnership, she said. Molineux also praised her bowling unit for restricting India after a strong opening stand and believed Australia managed the conditions smartly despite Harmanpreet Kaurs late assault taking India to 170/4. There was plenty of discussion about the boundary sizes here at Lords. The shorter boundary down the slope, especially against the wind, was something we were very aware of. But I thought our bowlers did a really good job. There were a couple of expensive overs, but overall, the way Lucy started was fantastic, and everyone contributed at different stages. More than anything, I thought we used our cricket smarts really well, which was pleasing, she said. Although India reached 66 without loss during the Power-play phase, Molineux said Australia remained confident they could wrest back control through the middle overs. There was plenty of discussion about the boundary sizes here at Lords. The shorter boundary down the slope, especially against the wind, was something we were very aware of. But I thought our bowlers did a really good job. There were a couple of expensive overs, but overall, the way Lucy started was fantastic, and everyone contributed at different stages. More than anything, I thought we used our cricket smarts really well, which was pleasing, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia finished the group stage with 10 points to qualify for the semifinals alongside South Africa, while Indias campaign ended despite Harmanpreets blistering 56 and a competitive first-innings total. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Ireland Definitely Outplayed India In Adaptability Department, Admits Iyer

Civil Service Cricket Club: India captain Shreyas Iyer conceded that Ireland definitely outplayed his side in the adaptability department after suffering a 2-0 series defeat, adding that the hosts were very professional in their style of play and were sorted in how they assessed and played as per the conditions. With two-time T20 World Cup winners India suffering a one-run defeat in the second game at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Stormont on Sunday, it ended their streak of 16 consecutive T20I series wins dating back to 2023. It also meant that Iyer suffered his first series defeat after being appointed as Indias new T20I captain. Absolutely. I feel the bowlers, they were phenomenal in terms of their executions today. But we fell a bit short in our batting. We were, we fell a bit short in terms of analyzing how the wicket is going to play and also converting singles into twos. I think they definitely outplayed us in that department. Its still definitely not a great series, honestly speaking, but kudos to them, the way they played. I think they showed the professionalism and definitely had a tremendous idea about how the wicket was going to play and the field work there was phenomenal. So a comprehensive win to them and congratulations, Iyer said in the post-match presentation ceremony. On the debutants pacer Prince Yadav, who picked 3-22 and seam-bowling all-rounder Suryansh Shedge, Iyer added, Definitely, as I mentioned earlier, that hes (Prince) got great experience in the IPL and he carries that momentum over here as well. Its still definitely not a great series, honestly speaking, but kudos to them, the way they played. I think they showed the professionalism and definitely had a tremendous idea about how the wicket was going to play and the field work there was phenomenal. So a comprehensive win to them and congratulations, Iyer said in the post-match presentation ceremony. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India will now travel to England to play the T20I series opener in Durham on July 1, before playing rest of their games at Old Trafford in Manchester (July 4), Trent Bridge in Nottingham (July 7), Seat Unique Stadium in Bristol (July 9), and Rose Bowl in Southampton (July 11). Article Source: IANS

When Cricket Broke Hearts, Hockey Gave India A Reason To Smile

FIH Hockey Pro League: It was a Sunday that Indian sports fans would rather forgetuntil hockey stepped in to rescue the mood. While both the Indian mens and womens cricket teams suffered painful defeats on foreign soil, the mens hockey team ensured the weekend didnt end without a smile, producing a gritty performance to beat England in a dramatic shootout in the FIH Hockey Pro League. The heartbreak began at Lords, where Indias hopes of reaching the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 semifinals came crashing down. Despite posting one of their best batting efforts of the tournament with 170 on the board, Harmanpreet Kaurs side watched helplessly as Australia chased down the target with an over to spare. Brilliant half-centuries from Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner powered Australia to a six-wicket win, knocking India out of the competition. For India, it was another familiar talemoments of brilliance overshadowed by a crushing exit at the business end of an ICC tournament. The defeat left them third in Group 1 with six points, while Australia and South Africa advanced to the semifinals. If that disappointment wasnt enough, more misery awaited thousands of kilometres away in Ireland. The young Indian mens T20 side, fresh from lifting the T20 World Cup earlier this year, suffered a shock 0-2 series defeat after Ireland clinched a thrilling one-run victory in the second T20I at Stormont. It was Irelands first-ever bilateral T20I series win over India and ended the visitors remarkable streak of 16 consecutive T20I series victories dating back to 2023. Even more impressive was the manner in which the Irish pulled it off. Lorcan Tuckers men showed tremendous character, defending totals in both matches to script one of the greatest weekends in Irish cricket history. Just when Indian sports fans thought Sunday had nothing left to offer, hockey came to the rescue. The Indian mens hockey team held its nerve in London, defeating England 3-2 in a tense shootout after regulation time ended goalless. The victory not only provided a fitting end to Indias FIH Hockey Pro League 2025-26 campaign but also ensured that the tricolour had something to celebrate on an otherwise gloomy day. Just when Indian sports fans thought Sunday had nothing left to offer, hockey came to the rescue. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Not every Sunday belongs to cricket. This one, unquestionably, belonged to hockey. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: 'I Cant Quite Believe It, But Absolutely Incredible', Says Tucker On Historic Win Over India

T20 World Cup: Ireland captain Lorcan Tucker said he 'can't quite believe' his team managed to get a stunning 2 0 series triumph over current T20 World Cup champions India, and praised the professionalism and commitment shown by his players in backing up their opening win with another spirited performance in the second game. Riding on three-fors from pacers Jai Moondra and Matthew Hollard, Ireland backed up their 34-run win over India Friday by registering an epic one-run win in the second T20I. I cant quite believe it, but absolutely incredible. I think I challenged the lads the other day to show the world that that wasnt a one off, that we could do it again, and we were able to do it today, Tucker said in the post-match presentation ceremony. Reflecting on the teams mindset after the emotional high of Fridays win, Tucker explained, I think we were obviously on a massive high the other night, but I think I challenged the lads to try and, you know, fall down from those clouds, get back to the real world, and put in a performance, do their recovery yesterday. I think we rocked up with that same intent. I felt like we were professional, we were diligent in the work we did, and we showed that again today. It felt like we were able to close the game out. I think we showed that good cricket can be simple cricket, and it doesnt always have to be that complicated, and especially when you read the conditions well, that you can be effective and you can win games of cricket. He acknowledged the impact of newer players Hollard and Moondra. Sometimes it feels like we play in the shadows of international cricket, but I think we will be front page news after this, and that will be so, its absolutely amazing. We have a lot of lads there who have very few caps between them, but I think they just showed that they do the work in the background, they know their own games well. Even when they come to the big stage like this, they can show up and they can perform, and we can beat the worlds best. He acknowledged the impact of newer players Hollard and Moondra. Sometimes it feels like we play in the shadows of international cricket, but I think we will be front page news after this, and that will be so, its absolutely amazing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Absolutely great time to be a professional cricketer in Ireland, and even for all those kids that came to watch today, watched on TV, we hope weve given them something to strive for. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Still Trying To Sink In, Says Jai Moondra After Irelands 2-0 Series Sweep Over India

Jai Moondra: Ireland left-arm pacer Jai Moondra said he was still processing the feeling of being named Player of the Match and Player of the Series in the sides 2-0 historic series sweep over India, adding that his maiden experience of playing international cricket was amazing and credited his teammates for keeping him grounded. Moondra rattled India in their chase of 155 by trapping Sanju Samson lbw, before dismissing Abhishek Sharma and Shreyas Iyer to end up with a three-for as Ireland got a one-run win to secure a memorable series victory. Still trying to sink in the feeling. I know its hard to describe in one word. Its an amazing feeling playing against the best, testing yourself. So just doing the basic for longer, that was the plan. Credit to team members and management. Keep it simple. There are gonna be tough times, but keep calm and composed and do your thing. Oh, Im still trying to process it, Moondra said in the post-match presentation ceremony. On his mindset while bowling to Samson, Moondra said, Just keep it simple, do what you have been doing. Its gonna be tough, little margin for error. So just keep what you have been doing and just stick to the plan. Still trying to sink in the feeling. I know its hard to describe in one word. Its an amazing feeling playing against the best, testing yourself. So just doing the basic for longer, that was the plan. Credit to team members and management. Keep it simple. There are gonna be tough times, but keep calm and composed and do your thing. Oh, Im still trying to process it, Moondra said in the post-match presentation ceremony. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He also praised the environment in the Ireland camp: Well, they made feel it was like one of them, like nothing different from that. It was playing amazing, good environment, good people. So just doing the duty they have given to me. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: 'We Need To Rethink How We Play Against Good Teams,' Says Harmanpreet After India's Exit

T20 World Cup: : India captain Harmanpreet Kaur admitted her side needs to reassess its approach against top opposition after Australia's record-breaking six-wicket victory at Lord's knocked the Women in Blue out of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 on Sunday. Despite posting a competitive 170/4, courtesy Harmanpreet's explosive 56 off 26 balls, India were unable to defend the total as Ellyse Perry (56) and Ashleigh Gardner (53 not out) guided Australia to the highest successful run chase in Women's T20 World Cup history. The defeat ended India's semifinal hopes, with Australia and South Africa progressing to the last four from the group. Reflecting on the result, Harmanpreet felt India had put enough runs on the board but admitted the team once again failed to deliver against one of the tournament's strongest sides. End of the day, we got a decent total on the board. In between when I was batting, I thought we were a little short, but the last couple of overs did the job. They were looking for the runs but couldn't do so, Harmanpreet said after the match. The skipper acknowledged that India's performances against stronger opponents had proved costly throughout the campaign. If I have to think about the entire tournament, we didn't do well against good teams. Against the best teams, always your best comes. I think we need to rethink that, she said. Harmanpreet credited Australia for executing their plans well and felt India could not capitalise despite preserving wickets during their innings. They're one of the best. I think they bowled according to their plans. We didn't lose wickets, but at the same time, we didn't get what we were expecting. It was a good game, but unfortunately, we didn't get over the line, she added. Looking at the bigger picture, the India captain called for serious introspection, particularly over the team's recurring struggles in crunch matches against elite opposition. They're one of the best. I think they bowled according to their plans. We didn't lose wickets, but at the same time, we didn't get what we were expecting. It was a good game, but unfortunately, we didn't get over the line, she added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India finished their campaign with six points from five matches, while Australia and South Africa qualified for the semifinals with eight points each. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Tector, Moondra, Hollard Star As Ireland Stun India By One Run, Win 20 Series Sweep (Ld)

Civil Service Cricket Club: Ireland stepped up really well when it mattered the most to defeat India by just one run and complete a memorable 20 series sweep their firstever bilateral triumph over the Asian heavyweights. Vice-captain Tilak Varmas fighting 55 kept India in the hunt, but debutant Jai Moondras early strikes and disciplined death bowling ensured the hosts defended 154/8 at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Stormont on Sunday. Harry Tector, playing in his 100th T20I game, anchored the innings with a scratchy but vital 53, while the bowlers produced a superb team performance to keep India at bay. Moondra and Matthew Hollard picked three wickets apiece The result ended Indias streak of 16 consecutive T20I series wins dating back to 2023, as it also marked one of the greatest weekends in Irish cricket history. Under newly appointed T20I captain Lorcan Tucker, the side missed its five firstchoice players. But Ireland showed remarkable spirit to defend totals in both games, and celebrate a famous triumph in front of a jubilant home crowd. For India, the series defeat was a sobering reminder of the challenges outside IPLstyle batting decks and their continued struggles against leftarm pace. Despite Varmas resistance, the middle order faltered under pressure, leaving the T20 World Cup champions humbled. The chase began disastrously for India as Moondra dismissed openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma for firstball ducks. Just like how it happened in the first game, Samson fell for a duck after he missed a flick off Moondras skiddy delivery and trapped lbw. On the fourth ball, Abhishek miscued a pull off Moondras short ball to third man. India were rattled further as skipper Shreyas Iyer chopped onto his stumps off Moondra for 10. Ishan Kishan attempted to rebuild alongside Tilak Varma, but a mixup resulted in his runout for 12. At 39/4, India were in deep trouble, having lost four wickets inside the Powerplay for just the 13th time in T20Is. Vice-captain Varma, however, held his nerve. He struck successive boundaries off Moondra through the leg-side and steadied the innings with a 32run stand with Axar Patel. Rain interruptions briefly halted play, but the duo ensured India stayed afloat, even as the asking rate hovered above eight runs per over. Once the game resumed, Matthew Hollard broke the partnership as Axar looked to steer him, but was caught by a superb Lorcan Tucker diving to his left and completed a stunning one-handed catch. Shivam Dube added some impetus into the innings with two fours, before pulling to deep square leg off Matthew Humphreys. Amidst all this, Varma hanged around and brought up his fifty in 45 balls by hitting Indias first six of the innings crouching low to heave Hollard over deep mid-wicket. But on the very next ball, Varmas aim to hit a lofted drive resulted in him mistiming to extra cover, and was followed by debutant Suryansh Shedges pursuit of clearing the bigger side of the ground ending in a catch to deep mid-wicket. Rana, though, had other ideas he slammed Moondra through point for four, before muscling him over long-on for six. With 20 runs needed off the final over, Rana got a boundary by evading the keeper on the free hit. Despite Tector giving two wides, he had the last laugh by having Rana caught at long-on. Though Prince Yadav hit a last-ball six, it wasnt enough to stop the result from going in Irelands favour. Previously, at one point, Ireland were primed to get 180, especially with Tector and Ben Calitz (37) sharing a 65-run stand. But losing wickets in a hurry at the end meant Ireland could just pass 150-mark. For India, Prince was impressive on debut - hitting hard-lengths and mixing yorkers and slower balls to outsmart Irish batters in the fag end. Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Dube and Harshit Rana were amongst the wickets too, while Axar Patel and second debutant Suryansh Shedge were wicketless. Put into batting first, Ireland were off to a flying start with Ross Adair smashing successive sixes off Arshdeep in the opening over. But Rana struck in the second over to remove Tim Tector, before Arshdeep dismissed Adair for 16 to peg the hosts back. Ireland were further dented when Lorcan Tucker was caught behind off Prince, as they reached 58/3 at the halfway stage. But Tector held the innings together and found support from Calitz, as they easily got boundaries off Shedge and Axar. Their partnership threatened to take Ireland close to 180 before Dube turned the tide by removing Calitz and Gareth Delany on successive balls in the 15th over. Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Dube and Harshit Rana were amongst the wickets too, while Axar Patel and second debutant Suryansh Shedge were wicketless. Put into batting first, Ireland were off to a flying start with Ross Adair smashing successive sixes off Arshdeep in the opening over. But Rana struck in the second over to remove Tim Tector, before Arshdeep dismissed Adair for 16 to peg the hosts back. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Ireland 154/8 in 20 overs (Harry Tector 53, Ben Calitz 37; Prince Yadav 3-22, Shivam Dube 2-25) beat India 153/9 in 20 overs (Tilak Varma 55, Harshit Rana 21; Matthew Hollard 3-26, Jai Moondra 3-32) by one run Article Source: IANS

Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma cheer Harmanpreet Kaur's record Lord's fifty in India's must-win Women's T20 World Cup clash vs Australia

India posted a formidable 170/4 against Australia in their must-win ICC Women's T20 World Cup clash at Lord's, thanks to a blistering unbeaten 56 off 27 balls from captain Harmanpreet Kaur. Smriti Mandhana (38) and Shafali Verma (34) laid a solid foundation before India finished strongly, scoring 36 runs in the final two overs.

2nd T20I: Tilaks 55 In Vain As Ireland Beat India By One Run, Get Historic 2-0 Series Win

Civil Service Cricket Club: Ireland stunned T20 World Cup champions India by securing a onerun victory in the second T20I to complete a 20 series sweep, their firstever bilateral series triumph over the Asian giants. Tilak Varmas fighting 55 kept India in the hunt, but debutant Jai Moondras early strikes and disciplined death bowling ensured the hosts defended 154/8 at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Stormont on Sunday. The result ended Indias streak of 16 consecutive T20I series wins dating back to 2023, as it marked one of the greatest weekends in Irish cricket history. Lorcan Tuckers side, missing five firstchoice players, showed remarkable spirit to defend totals in both matches. Jai Moondra and Matthew Hollard picking three wickets each helped Ireland in being the better bowling side across both games. For India, the series defeat was a sobering reminder of the challenges in excelling on outside IPL pitches and their shortcomings in facing left-arm fast bowlers. Despite Varmas resistance, the Indian middle order faltered under pressure, leaving Ireland to celebrate a famous triumph in front of a jubilant home crowd. The chase began disastrously for India as Moondra dismissed openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma for firstball ducks. Just like how it happened in the first game, Samson fell for a duck after he missed a flick off Moondras skiddy delivery and trapped lbw. On the fourth ball, Abhishek miscued a pull off Moondras short ball to third man. India were rattled further as skipper Shreyas Iyer chopped onto his stumps off Moondra for 10. Ishan Kishan attempted to rebuild alongside Tilak Varma, but a mixup resulted in his runout for 12. At 39/4, India were in deep trouble, having lost four wickets inside the Powerplay for just the 13th time in T20Is. Vice-captain Varma, however, held his nerve. He struck successive boundaries off Moondra through the leg-side and steadied the innings with a 32run stand with Axar Patel. Rain interruptions briefly halted play, but the duo ensured India stayed afloat, even as the asking rate hovered above eight runs per over. Once the game resumed, Matthew Hollard broke the partnership as Axar looked to steer him, but was caught by a superb Lorcan Tucker diving to his left and completed a stunning one-handed catch. Shivam Dube added some impetus into the innings with two fours, before pulling to deep square leg off Matthew Humphreys. Amidst all this, Varma hanged around and brought up his fifty in 45 balls by hitting Indias first six of the innings crouching low to heave Hollard over deep mid-wicket. But on the very next ball, Varmas aim to hit a lofted drive resulted in him mistiming to extra cover, and was followed by debutant Suryansh Shedges pursuit of clearing the bigger side of the ground ending in a catch to deep mid-wicket. Once the game resumed, Matthew Hollard broke the partnership as Axar looked to steer him, but was caught by a superb Lorcan Tucker diving to his left and completed a stunning one-handed catch. Shivam Dube added some impetus into the innings with two fours, before pulling to deep square leg off Matthew Humphreys. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Ireland 154/8 in 20 overs (Harry Tector 53, Ben Calitz 37; Prince Yadav 3-22, Shivam Dube 2-25) beat India 153/9 in 20 overs (Tilak Varma 55, Harshit Rana 21; Matthew Hollard 3-26, Jai Moondra 3-32) by one run Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: India Knocked Out Of Semis As Perry, Gardner Power Australia To Historic Chase At Lord's

T20 World Cup: India's campaign in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 came to a heartbreaking end as Australia produced the highest successful run chase in the tournament's history to register a commanding six-wicket victory at Lord's on Sunday. Chasing a challenging target of 171, Australia rode on superb half-centuries from Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner to complete the chase with an over to spare, ending India's hopes of reaching the semifinals. The defeat meant India finished third in Group 1 with six points from five matches, while Australia and South Africa progressed to the last four with eight points each. It was another painful exit for Harmanpreet Kaur's side despite posting one of their best batting performances of the tournament. India had looked firmly in control after captain Harmanpreet Kaur produced a sensational late assault to power her side to 170/4, a total that appeared competitive on a surface offering something for both batters and bowlers. However, Australia's experienced middle order absorbed the early pressure before launching a clinical chase that eventually rewrote the Women's T20 World Cup record books. Needing a strong start, Australia suffered an early setback when Renuka Singh trapped Georgia Voll leg-before in the opening over. Voll departed for just four, briefly lifting Indian spirits in what was a must-win encounter. However, Renuka's opening over also contained four wides and conceded 11 runs, allowing Australia to recover quickly. Returning from injury, Phoebe Litchfield looked confident from the outset as she struck consecutive boundaries off Kranti Gaud in the second over before Beth Mooney joined the attack with two boundaries of her own. Litchfield ensured Australia finished the Power-play strongly by smashing a six off the first ball of the sixth over before collecting another boundary, taking Australia to 49/1 after six overs despite the early wicket. India finally found another breakthrough immediately after the Power-play through their premier spinner Shree Charani. The left-arm spinner produced a superb delivery that trapped Litchfield as she attempted to accelerate. Litchfield departed for a composed 24 from 25 deliveries, an innings featuring two fours and a six,but Australia's response was immediate. Ellyse Perry walked in with positive intent and signalled her approach by striking two boundaries in her first three deliveries. At the other end, Mooney continued rotating the strike before attempting to break free against Deepti Sharma. Looking to slog-sweep a full delivery, Mooney mistimed her shot high into the air, allowing Radha Yadav to complete a comfortable catch. Mooney's dismissal for 22 from 20 balls gave India renewed hope while Deepti achieved another personal milestone by claiming the 356th wicket of her international career. At 82/3, India sensed an opening. Instead, Perry and Ashleigh Gardner combined to produce the match-defining partnership. The experienced duo gradually shifted momentum towards Australia through intelligent strike rotation before launching an aggressive assault against India's bowlers. Gardner immediately took on Radha Yadav, smashing a four and a six during the 13th over, while Perry continued finding regular boundaries to keep the asking rate comfortably under control. Gardner cleared the ropes once again in the 15th over while Perry continued piercing the infield with elegant drives. Harmanpreet searched desperately for a breakthrough and even handed the ball to Shafali Verma in an attempt to break the partnership, but the move failed as Australia comfortably collected another 12 runs. The turning point came in the 17th over. Renuka Singh, India's most experienced pace bowler, endured a difficult spell as Perry completed her half-century off just 33 balls with another boundary. The over leaked 17 runs and effectively ended India's hopes of making a comeback. Perry eventually fell in the final over after a magnificent 56 from just 38 deliveries, striking eight boundaries, but by then the damage had already been done. Gardner ensured there would be no late twist. The Australian all-rounder reached her fifty from only 28 balls with a boundary off Deepti Sharma and remained unbeaten on 53 as Australia completed the chase in 19 overs, sealing not only a semifinal place but also the highest successful run chase in Women's T20 World Cup history. Earlier, India had produced one of their finest batting displays of the tournament after Harmanpreet elected to bat first upon winning the toss. Openers Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma began cautiously, scoring only three runs in the opening over while assessing the conditions at Lord's. Once settled, Mandhana quickly found her timing. She collected consecutive boundaries off Kim Garth in the second over before adding another four in the following over as India steadily built momentum. Shafali initially played the supporting role before launching a counterattack against Ashleigh Gardner. The aggressive opener hammered a six and a four in the fourth over before adding another boundary in the final over of the Power-play, helping India reach 43 without loss after six overs. The opening partnership continued frustrating Australia's bowlers. Shafali particularly enjoyed batting against Gardner, striking another four and a six in the ninth over as the opening stand crossed fifty and then sixty, putting India in an excellent position. Australia finally broke through in the 10th over when captain Sophie Molineux clean bowled Shafali for a fluent 34 from 26 deliveries. Her entertaining innings included three fours and two sixes and provided India with an impressive 66-run opening partnership. Mandhana continued anchoring the innings while Jemimah Rodrigues settled quickly with an early boundary. However, India's momentum suffered a setback through a costly misunderstanding between the pair. Mandhana called for a quick single, but Rodrigues, committed to playing a reverse sweep, could not respond in time. The confusion resulted in Mandhana being run out for 38 from 37 balls after an otherwise well-constructed innings featuring six boundaries. With India suddenly losing two wickets in quick succession, captain Harmanpreet Kaur walked in and immediately took charge. Alongside Jemimah, she rebuilt the innings sensibly through clever strike rotation and timely boundaries. The pair guided India past the 100-run mark in the 14th over before Harmanpreet shifted gears dramatically during the death overs. She began attacking Annabel Sutherland with boundaries before consistently finding gaps and converting singles into twos. Jemimah also accelerated by hitting a six in the 19th over as India crossed the 150-run mark. Australia's fielding standards slipped noticeably during the closing stages as Rodrigues was dropped twice. Sensing the opportunity for a stronger finisher, India retired her out after a useful 34 from 28 deliveries, which included one four and one six. The final over belonged entirely to Harmanpreet. She began attacking Annabel Sutherland with boundaries before consistently finding gaps and converting singles into twos. Jemimah also accelerated by hitting a six in the 19th over as India crossed the 150-run mark. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 170/4 in 20 overs(Harmanpreet Kaur 56, Smriti Mandhana 38, Shafali Verma 34; Sophie Molineux 2-46) lost to Australia 172/4 in 19 overs (Elyssa Perry 56, Ashleigh Gardner 53*,Phoebe Litchfield 24;Shree Charani 2-32, Deepti Sharma 1-31) by six wickets. Article Source: IANS

New Zealand Join England In Emotional Guard Of Honour For Retiring Ben Stokes At Trent Bridge

Wales Cricket Board: England captain Ben Stokes was given a stirring guard of honour by both his England teammates and New Zealand players at Trent Bridge on Sunday after announcing his shock retirement from international cricket. Barely an hour after the England and Wales Cricket Board announced that Stokes would retire after the third Test against New Zealand, emotional scenes unfolded in Nottingham. Shortly after the tea break on day four, England players formed a guard of honour as their captain walked out to bat. The two New Zealand batters joined the tribute. The entire Trent Bridge crowd stood to applaud one of England's greatest cricketers in a touching farewell. The tribute came after Stokes shocked the cricket world by revealing that the match would be his final international game. This announcement capped a dramatic week for the England captain. Stokes had just returned to the team after missing the second Test due to an off-field incident outside a Chelsea nightclub involving England fast bowler Gus Atkinson after the opening Test. The celebrations following the first Test turned into a disciplinary matter, with both players facing separate investigations by the ECB and the Cricket Regulator. Although they were cleared of any serious issues, Stokes and Atkinson received written warnings. This announcement capped a dramatic week for the England captain. Stokes had just returned to the team after missing the second Test due to an off-field incident outside a Chelsea nightclub involving England fast bowler Gus Atkinson after the opening Test. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Back as captain, Stokes made an immediate impact. He took four wickets in New Zealand's first innings and scored 15 in England's reply. He added two more wickets in the second innings as New Zealand declared at 288/9, setting England a target of 373 to win the final Test and secure the series. Article Source: IANS

Sri Lanka lose six, WI close in on huge win

If West Indies break through in the next session, they are likely to secure an innings win.

T20 WC: Deepti Sharma Scripts History, Becomes Leading Wicket Taker In Women's Cricket

T20 World Cup: Star Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma etched her name in history books on Sunday, becoming the highest wicket-taker in women's international cricket during India's ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 Group A clash against Australia at the Lord's Cricket Ground. The Indian all-rounder entered the match needing just one wicket to surpass legendary pacer Jhulan Goswami's long-standing record of 355 international wickets. Deepti achieved the historic milestone by dismissing Australian star Beth Mooney, who miscued a slog-sweep off the off-spinner and was comfortably caught by Radha Yadav at long-on. The landmark wicket came when Deepti bowled a full delivery on the stumps, forcing Mooney out of her crease in search of a big hit. The left-hander failed to time the slog-sweep, sending the ball high into the air before Radha completed a simple catch. Mooney departed for 22 off 20 balls, with two boundaries, as Deepti claimed the record-breaking 356th wicket of her international career. The match also marked Deepti's 278th international appearance for India. The Agra-born all-rounder now has 356 wickets across all three formats, underlining her remarkable consistency over the years. Deepti's tally includes 22 wickets in six Test matches, 166 wickets in 124 One-Day Internationals, and 168 wickets in 148 T20 Internationals. Earlier in the tournament, she had already showcased her brilliance by claiming a five-wicket haul against Pakistan in India's opening match of the Women's T20 World Cup in Birmingham on June 14. The match also marked Deepti's 278th international appearance for India. The Agra-born all-rounder now has 356 wickets across all three formats, underlining her remarkable consistency over the years. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Deepti now sits alone at the top of the all-time list of wicket-takers in women's international cricket. Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry occupies third place with 336 wickets, followed by England's Katherine Sciver-Brunt with 335, Sophie Ecclestone with 333, and South Africa's Shabnim Ismail with 323. Article Source: IANS

Pacers, openers complete Zimbabwe's perfect day

The hosts bowled Bangladesh out for 140 and were only four behind by stumps on day one

Vaughan blames 'fall-out with ECB' for timing of Stokes retirement

Former England captain believes lack of trust in management is key factor in sudden announcement

Womens T20 WC: Shabnim Ismail Scripts History, Becomes Tournaments Leading Wicket-taker

T20 World Cup: South Africa pace spearhead Shabnim Ismail added another remarkable milestone to her illustrious career on Sunday by becoming the most successful bowler in the history of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup. The veteran fast bowler claimed her 49th wicket in the tournament during South Africa's crucial Group 1 encounter against Bangladesh at Lord's, moving past Australia's Megan Schutt to stand alone at the top of the all-time charts. The record-breaking dismissal arrived early in Bangladesh's innings when opener Taj Nehar was trapped leg-before in Ismail's second over. It was a trademark breakthrough from one of the quickest bowlers women's cricket has produced and proved to be another defining moment in a career that has consistently delivered on the biggest stages. Having made her Women's T20 World Cup debut back in 2009, Ismail has now accumulated 49 wickets from 37 appearances in the competition. Her remarkable record includes an average of 15.87 and an economy rate of just 5.96, illustrating both her wicket-taking ability and her sustained control across nearly two decades of World Cup cricket. The previous benchmark belonged to Australian seamer Megan Schutt, who finished with 48 wickets and remains part of Australia's squad at the ongoing 2026 tournament. Another South African, all-rounder Marizanne Kapp, occupies fifth place on the all-time list with 38 wickets. Ismail's latest spell also played a significant role in South Africa's push for a place in the knockout stages. She returned figures of 1/15 from four economical overs against Bangladesh, conceding runs at just 3.75 an over as the Proteas restricted their opponents to 117/5 in a must-win contest. Across the 2026 tournament, the right-arm pacer has collected six wickets in five matches while maintaining an economy rate below seven. The milestone adds another chapter to an already extraordinary journey. Ismail had stepped away from international cricket in May 2023 after helping South Africa reach their maiden Women's T20 World Cup final. With the Proteas once again targeting global success, she reversed that decision and returned for the 2026 edition, bringing invaluable experience to an attack chasing the country's first ICC limited-overs trophy. Ismail's latest spell also played a significant role in South Africa's push for a place in the knockout stages. She returned figures of 1/15 from four economical overs against Bangladesh, conceding runs at just 3.75 an over as the Proteas restricted their opponents to 117/5 in a must-win contest. Across the 2026 tournament, the right-arm pacer has collected six wickets in five matches while maintaining an economy rate below seven. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, the Proteas concluded their group stage with a victory against Bangladesh, with four wins and a loss from five games. However, their qualification to the semi-final hangs in the balance as only Indias loss to Australia would confirm their spot. Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: Kohli, Shastri, Dhawan Cheer For India At Lord's In Must-win Clash Against Australia

T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli, Anushka Sharma, Ravi Shastri and Shikhar Dhawan were among the familiar faces at Lord's as India produced a commanding batting display to post 170/4 against Australia in their must-win ICC Women's T20 World Cup clash on Saturday. Backed by a star-studded crowd, India finished with a flourish, scoring 36 runs in the final two overs and putting Australia under immense pressure. The Southern Stars struggled at the end, allowing India to gain momentum. Now, Australia needs to achieve the highest successful run chase in Women's T20 World Cup history to keep India out of the semifinals. After choosing to bat first, India got off to a confident start with Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma. Australia's new-ball attack failed to strike early, and the openers raced to 43 runs without losing a wicket in the powerplay. The pair added 66 runs before Shafali was bowled for 34 in the 10th over. Jemimah Rodrigues then joined Mandhana, who found it harder to score as the field spread. A terrible mix-up in the 12th over ended Mandhana's innings at 38 off 37 balls, bringing captain Harmanpreet Kaur to the crease. While Jemimah struggled to find her rhythm in a shaky 34 off 28 balls, Harmanpreet quickly changed the pace, finding the boundary often as India set up for a late assault. Jemimah was retired out on 34 before the final over, clearing the way for an explosive finish. The final over belonged to Harmanpreet. She faced off against opposing captain Sophie Molineux, hitting three consecutive sixes and reaching a stunning half-century in just 25 balls. The India skipper eventually fell for 56 off 27 balls after hitting six fours and three sixes. While Jemimah struggled to find her rhythm in a shaky 34 off 28 balls, Harmanpreet quickly changed the pace, finding the boundary often as India set up for a late assault. Jemimah was retired out on 34 before the final over, clearing the way for an explosive finish. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With 170/4 on the board, India has given themselves a strong chance in a virtual quarterfinal. The bowlers now have the responsibility to defend the total and secure a place in the Women's T20 World Cup semifinals. Article Source: IANS

Ben Stokes to retire from international cricket after third Test

England captain told team-mates that he would be stepping down at start of fourth day in Nottingham

Women's T20 WC: Harmanpreet's Fastest Fifty Powers India To 170/4 Vs Australia In A Must-win Clash

Captain Harmanpreet Kaur: Captain Harmanpreet Kaur produced a captain's knock with a scintillating half-century after Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma laid a solid platform, helping India post a competitive 170/4 against Australia in their final Group stage match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at Lord's Cricket Ground on Sunday. After winning the toss, Harmanpreet opted to bat first. India began cautiously as Smriti Mandhana and Shafali Verma took time to assess the conditions, managing just three runs from the opening over. Once settled, Mandhana found her rhythm and took on Kim Garth, striking consecutive boundaries in the second over before adding another four in the next as India slowly built momentum. Shafali, who had faced only a handful of deliveries early on, shifted gears in the fourth over by smashing Ashleigh Gardner for a six and a four. She continued the attack in the final over of the Power-play with another boundary as India reached a steady 43 without loss after six overs. The opening pair ensured the scoring rate never dipped after the power play. Shafali continued to dominate Gardner, hitting a four and a six in the ninth over as the opening stand crossed the 60-run mark. Australia finally found the breakthrough in the 10th over when captain Sophie Molineux clean bowled Shafali for a well-made 34 off 26 balls. Her aggressive innings, featuring three fours and two sixes, had given India a strong 66-run opening partnership. Mandhana continued to anchor the innings while Jemimah Rodrigues started confidently with a boundary. However, a costly mix-up between the two batters brought an end to Mandhana's innings. Looking for a quick single, Mandhana set off, but Rodrigues, attempting a reverse sweep, did not respond in time. Mandhana was run out for 38 from 37 balls after striking six boundaries. With India suddenly reduced by two quick wickets, Harmanpreet joined Jemimah and the pair rebuilt the innings with sensible batting. They rotated the strike effectively, kept the scoreboard moving, and brought up India's 100 in the 14th over. After settling in, Harmanpreet switched to attack. She began with a boundary off Annabel Sutherland in the 15th over and maintained the pressure by finding the fence regularly while also converting singles into twos. Jemimah also accelerated towards the end, smashing a six off Sutherland in the 19th over as India moved past the 150-run mark. Australia were untidy in the field during the closing stages, dropping Jemimah twice before India decided to retire her out for 34 off 28 balls, an innings that included a four and a six. The final over belonged entirely to Harmanpreet. The India skipper launched three consecutive sixes to race to her half-century in just 25 balls before being dismissed on the very next delivery. Her explosive knock of 56 came off just 26 balls and included six fours and three sixes. Jemimah also accelerated towards the end, smashing a six off Sutherland in the 19th over as India moved past the 150-run mark. Australia were untidy in the field during the closing stages, dropping Jemimah twice before India decided to retire her out for 34 off 28 balls, an innings that included a four and a six. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India 170/4 in 20 overs (Harmanpreet Kaur 56, Smriti Mandhana 38, Shafali Verma 34; Sophie Molineux 2-46) against Australia Article Source: IANS

Ben Stokes To Retire From International Cricket After New Zealand Series

ODI World Cup: England captain Ben Stokes will retire from international cricket at the conclusion of the ongoing Test series against New Zealand, bringing the curtain down on one of the most remarkable careers in English cricket. The 35-year-old told his England teammates about his decision before the fourth day of the third and final Test at Trent Bridge. Stokes will play the final two days of the match before ending a career that brought some of England's greatest cricket moments. An emotional Stokes spoke to the team before play, urging everyone to finish the match with full commitment. The reasons can wait, but I've had many tough times for this team, for you guys, and for those who came before. I have one more tough time to do, Stokes said in a video posted by England Cricket. The only thing I ask is that everyone do the same. We have a lot of hard work ahead, and all I want is to walk off that field, no matter the result, knowing that this group gave their all for the last two days. Thats all I want, for everyone to put in the effort not just for me but also for the team. Ive dealt with the emotional side. Now its time to get to work. Please, everyone else, join me. The announcement came after a tough week when Stokes missed the second Test due to an incident at a London nightclub. Before returning to lead England at Trent Bridge, he had only mentioned captaining the side his week, hinting at what lay ahead. Stokes leaves international cricket as one of England's greatest match-winners. His unforgettable unbeaten 84 led England to their first ODI World Cup title in the dramatic 2019 final against New Zealand. Six weeks later, his heroic 135 not out at Headingley inspired one of the greatest Ashes victories against Australia. He will finish his career with 122 Tests, including 44 as England captain, as well as 114 One-Day Internationals and 43 T20 Internationals. He also played a key role in England's victory at the 2022 T20 World Cup. In a tribute, the England and Wales Cricket Board praised Stokes' incredible impact on the game. His performances under pressure, his relentless competitiveness, and his ability to deliver when it matters most have given me and millions of fans memories that will last forever. Whether inspiring victory in crucial momentsdriving England to World Cup wins in 2019 and 2022 or leading the Test team with courageBen has been a key figure in English cricket. In a tribute, the England and Wales Cricket Board praised Stokes' incredible impact on the game. His performances under pressure, his relentless competitiveness, and his ability to deliver when it matters most have given me and millions of fans memories that will last forever. Also Read: Live Cricket Score On behalf of the ECB, I want to thank Ben for everything he has contributed to our sport and wish him and his family success and happiness in the future. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Prince Yadav Picks 3-22 On Debut As India Restrict Ireland To 154/8

Civil Service Cricket Club: Debutant pacer Prince Yadav returned with figures of 3-22 as India produced a disciplined bowling effort to restrict Ireland to 154/8 in the second T20I at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Stormont on Sunday. At one point, Ireland were primed to get 180, especially with Harry Tector (53) and Ben Calitz (37) sharing a 65-run stand. But losing wickets in a hurry at the end meant Ireland could just pass 150-mark. For India, Prince was impressive on debut - hitting hard-lengths and mixing yorkers and slower balls to outsmart Irish batters in the fag end. Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Dube and Harshit Rana were amongst the wickets too, while Axar Patel and second debutant Suryansh Shedge were wicketless. Put in to batting first, Ireland were off to a flying start with Ross Adair smashing successive sixes off Arshdeep in the opening over. But Rana struck in the second over to remove Tim Tector, before Arshdeep dismissed Adair for 16 to peg the hosts back Ireland were further dented when Lorcan Tucker was caught behind off Prince, as they reached 58/3 at the halfway stage. But Tector, playing his 100th T20I game, held the innings together and found support from Calitz, as they easily got boundaries off Shedge and Axar. Their partnership threatened to take Ireland close to 180 before Dube turned the tide by removing Calitz and Gareth Delany on successive balls in the 15th over. Arshdeep Singh, Shivam Dube and Harshit Rana were amongst the wickets too, while Axar Patel and second debutant Suryansh Shedge were wicketless. Put in to batting first, Ireland were off to a flying start with Ross Adair smashing successive sixes off Arshdeep in the opening over. But Rana struck in the second over to remove Tim Tector, before Arshdeep dismissed Adair for 16 to peg the hosts back Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Ireland 154/8 in 20 overs (Harry Tector 53, Ben Calitz 37; Prince Yadav 3-22, Shivam Dube 2-25) against India Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: Nigar Sultana Rues Bangladesh's Missed Chances After SA Loss And Tournament Exit

T20 World Cup: Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana admitted her side fell just short in a must-win Women's T20 World Cup fixture against South Africa on Sunday, saying an underwhelming middle phase with the bat ultimately proved decisive in ending their semi-final hopes. Despite a spirited bowling display that stretched the contest to the penultimate over, Bangladesh were unable to defend 117, bowing out of the tournament after a four-wicket defeat. Looking back at her team's batting effort, Sultana pointed to the early setbacks and the inability to accelerate through the middle overs as the defining moments of the innings, even though Bangladesh recovered well towards the finish. I guess we lost wickets early in the power play, but the bowlers played really well there. They were hanging there and trying to build a partnership. And I think we couldn't get runs in the middle part of the game. We finished it really well in the last few overs of the first innings. But end of the time, I think we are short of 10 to 15 runs, and it actually cost us the campaign as a whole, Nigar said post match. Although Bangladesh finished on the losing side, their bowlers refused to let South Africa cruise to victory. Regular breakthroughs, disciplined spells and committed fielding kept the pressure firmly on the Proteas until the final over, something that left the skipper immensely satisfied despite the outcome. I think I should thank all my bowlers and fielders because how they fought till the last ball, and they were keep fighting for the last run. So it really made me feel very proud about the team, she noted. Although Bangladesh finished on the losing side, their bowlers refused to let South Africa cruise to victory. Regular breakthroughs, disciplined spells and committed fielding kept the pressure firmly on the Proteas until the final over, something that left the skipper immensely satisfied despite the outcome. Also Read: Live Cricket Score And we came here to win games definitely. And we win two games here, but we wanted more. I think it's a huge achievement for the team. And I'm really proud the way each and everyone gave their 100% in the field and tried to win for Bangladesh, she concluded. Article Source: IANS

I Will Be In The Audience, Go Aussies: Wolvaardt Pins SAs Semi-final Hopes On Australia After Bangladesh Win

T20 World Cup: South Africa captain Laura Wolvaardt reflected on her side's nervy victory over Bangladesh after their Women's T20 World Cup league-stage clash on Sunday, admitting the chase became far tighter than expected despite securing the result they needed. While the Proteas stayed alive in the race for the semi-finals by completing a four-wicket win, Wolvaardt acknowledged her team would now have to rely on Australia defeating India later in the day to keep their campaign alive. With South Africa successfully chasing 118, Wolvaardt admitted the finish was more dramatic than her side would have preferred. Not the way we would have liked to finish it. Probably got a bit closer than it needed to be, but happy to walk away with the win, Wolvaardt said post match. The skipper reserved special praise for her bowling attack, believing the foundation for victory was laid during Bangladesh's innings. Although satisfied with the overall effort, she felt her side missed an opportunity to restrict the opposition even further. I think we were excellent. I think we started really well with the ball. The powerplay was so good from our veterans. Probably let them get a little bit too many at the end there. Would have liked to restrict them to 100 or less. I think if we're chasing 140, it would have been a tricky chase, she added. Bangladesh's slow bowlers then ensured South Africa never enjoyed a comfortable chase, repeatedly forcing the batters to reassess their approach on a sluggish surface. Wolvaardt admitted her side struggled to maintain momentum against the spin attack. They've got some really slow spinners. It's always going to be tough in slow wickets, when they're really slowing it down like that. I think today we maybe went in our shells a little bit, so maybe just try to knock it around, the skipper said. Despite completing their own assignment, South Africa's qualification ambitions remain out of their control. Their fate now rests on the outcome of the final Group stage fixture between India and Australia, and Wolvaardt revealed exactly where her attention would be once her own match had concluded. They've got some really slow spinners. It's always going to be tough in slow wickets, when they're really slowing it down like that. I think today we maybe went in our shells a little bit, so maybe just try to knock it around, the skipper said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa have done everything they could by collecting the two points against Bangladesh, but whether their World Cup journey continues now depends entirely on Australia's ability to overcome India. Article Source: IANS

India bat with Gaud in for Nandani in must-win clash against Australia

Phoebe Litchfield returned for Australia, having missed all but their first match of the World Cup with injury

Padikkal Smashes Half-century As Rain Forces Draw In India A-Sri Lanka A Four-day Clash

Spinner Dilum Sudeera: Left-handed batter Devdutt Padikkal smashed a fine half-century before persistent inclement weather resulted in a draw on the fourth and final day of the first four-day game between India A and Sri Lanka A on Sunday. Chasing an improbable target of 312 runs in the fourth innings, Sri Lanka A were at 70/2 when play was officially called off following multiple delays due to rain. Starting their day at 53 without loss, India A progressed smoothly via an 82-run stand between opener Ayush Pandey and Padikkal. Spinner Dilum Sudeera provided the initial breakthrough by dismissing Pandey for 38, which was followed by Ravindu Fernando trapping Ruturaj Gaikwad (1) lbw to reduce India A to 137/2. Padikkal, who notched up a solid 67, anchored the innings alongside skipper, wicketkeeper-batter Dhruv Jurel, through a brief 44-run stand. But Sri Lanka A bounced back when Sudeera claimed Padikkal, and Sahan Arachchige had caught Jurel behind the stumps in the subsequent over to leave India A at 172/4 at lunch. A heavy downpour delayed the start of the post-lunch session, but Sri Lanka A capitalised on the resumption of play. Sudeera triggered a dramatic batting collapse, grabbing three scalps in a single over to secure a well-deserving five-wicket haul. Struggling at 189/8 but possessing a formidable overall lead of 311 runs, India A decided to declare their second innings and put Sri Lanka A into chasing. Opener Pawantha Weerasinghe struck a fluent 20, but India A made a breakthrough when medium-pacer Auqib Nabi removed him, while Harsh Dubey trapped Niroshan Dickwella plumb lbw in consecutive overs to leave the hosts two down. Sudeera triggered a dramatic batting collapse, grabbing three scalps in a single over to secure a well-deserving five-wicket haul. Struggling at 189/8 but possessing a formidable overall lead of 311 runs, India A decided to declare their second innings and put Sri Lanka A into chasing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: India A 452/6 declared and 189/8 declared (Devdutt Padikkal 67, Ayush Pandey 38; Dilum Sudeera 5-49) drew with Sri Lanka A 330 and 70/2 in 15 overs (Pawantha Weerasinghe 20; Auqib Nabi 1-18). Article Source: IANS

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Coastal Kings Mangaluru Cruise To Eight Wicket Triumph Over Shivamogga Yodhas

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Coastal Kings Mangaluru scored an emphatic eight-wicket victory (VJD target) over Shivamogga Yodhas in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 tournament on Sunday. The match was reduced to 17 overs a side during the first innnings, due to rain. Batting first, Shivamogga Yodhas could manage only 113 for eight in their 17 overs as their batting proved brittle yet again and that led to their second successive defeat. For the winners, who reached the revised target with utmost comfort in just 12.4 overs losing just two wickets, veteran medium pacer Vasuki Koushik (2-15) did the early damage with a double blow in his second over while 17-year-old debutant B R Rathan (3-16) broke the lower-order on his debut. It was their third victory in five matches and helped them reduce the margin with the table toppers Bengaluru Blasters to a solitary point and move to second position on seven points. For the Yodhas, it was their second successive defeat and fourth in five matches. They stay in fourth with four points from five matches. In reply, Coastal Kings openers Venkatesh M and Nikin Jose added 81 runs in just 7.5 overs to effectively put the match beyond the reach of the Yodhas. Venkateshs 25-ball 45 consisted of four boundaries and three sixes while Jose continued his good form with 31 (25 balls, 2 fours, 2 sixes). Siddharth Akhil (22 not out, 19 balls, 2 fours) and Rajvir Wadhwa (10 not out, 7 balls, 1 six) completed the formalities without much fuss. For Coastal Kings the 33-year-old multi-talented Koushik first clean bowled opener Naveen MG (10, 10 balls, 1 four, 1 six) of the fourth ball of his second over and then ensured K V Aneeshs poor form continued as he dismissed him for another golden duck, caught by Jose, off the very next delivery. Siddharth Akhil (22 not out, 19 balls, 2 fours) and Rajvir Wadhwa (10 not out, 7 balls, 1 six) completed the formalities without much fuss. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The remarkably talented debutant Rathan then entered the scene and completed the destruction in dramatic style, claiming the last three wickets to fall. Article Source: IANS

South Africa seal nervy chase against Bangladesh and wait for Australia vs India

If Australia beat India, South Africa will qualify for the semi-finals

Women's T20 WC: Kranti Gaud Back As India Opt To Bat Against Australia

T20 World Cup: India won the toss and elected to bat first against Australia in the final group stage match of the Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at Lord's Cricket Ground on Sunday. India have made one change for the must-win encounter, as Kranti Gaud is back in the side in place of Nandni Sharma. While Phoebe Litchfield is back in Australia. Australia have been virtually flawless throughout the tournament, collecting maximum points from four matches and establishing themselves as the benchmark once again. Their impressive net run rate means only an extraordinary sequence of results could prevent them from reaching the semi-finals, allowing them to approach the contest from a position of strength. India's margin for error is considerably slimmer. Harmanpreet Kaur's team enters the final group game knowing victory would certain their qualification for semi finals while a loss would send them out of the tournament. Although Australia remain favourites, recent history suggests India have every reason to believe. The memories of knocking Australia out of last year's Women's ODI World Cup and winning a bilateral T201 series on Australian soil have demonstrated that the gap between the two sides has narrowed significantly. After winning the toss, Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur said, Going to bat first. Very important game for us, so we thought, let's just bat freely. One change. Kranti is back in place of Nandni. These kinds of pitches suit her. It's a fresh day, fresh mind. Today is the day to enjoy ourselves. While after losing the toss, Australian skipper Sophie Molineux said, Actually, we were going to have a bowl. Pheebs is back in; Alana King is missing out. Just conditions and matchups. Playing XIs While after losing the toss, Australian skipper Sophie Molineux said, Actually, we were going to have a bowl. Pheebs is back in; Alana King is missing out. Just conditions and matchups. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia: Beth Mooney(wk), Georgia Voll, Phoebe Litchfield, Ellyse Perry, Ashleigh Gardner, Georgia Wareham, Annabel Sutherland, Nicola Carey, Sophie Molineux (c), Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: South Africa Edge Bangladesh In Tense Chase But SF Fate Rests On Australia

T20 World Cup: South Africa kept their ICC Women's T20 World Cup semi-final hopes alive with a hard-fought four-wicket victory over Bangladesh on Sunday at the Lords Cricket Ground, successfully chasing 118 in a contest that remained alive until the final over. After restricting Bangladesh to 117/5 through a disciplined bowling effort in the first innings, the Proteas overcame a spirited fightback led by Bangladesh's bowlers to seal victory, although their progression now depends on Australia defeating India later in the day. The modest target appeared straightforward on paper, but Bangladesh ensured South Africa had to earn every run. Marufa Akter produced a dream start by removing captain Laura Wolvaardt with the very first delivery of the chase, sending the stumps cartwheeling with a magnificent inswinger that immediately shifted the pressure onto the Proteas. Annerie Dercksen and Tazmin Brits responded calmly, refusing to let the early setback derail their pursuit. The pair rebuilt with a valuable 52-run partnership for the second wicket, rotating strike efficiently before capitalising on scoring opportunities. Dercksen settled into her innings despite a couple of anxious moments early on, while Brits mixed caution with aggression to ensure the required rate never climbed beyond control. Bangladesh, however, refused to let the game drift away. Nahida Akter provided the breakthrough by deceiving Brits into a mistimed slog-sweep before dismissing Dercksen for a well-crafted 45 after a successful review confirmed a faint edge through to wicketkeeper Nigar Sultana. Between those wickets, Shanjida Akter Meghla trapped Dane van Niekerk leg-before, keeping Bangladesh firmly in the contest despite South Africa's steady progress. Earlier, Bangladesh had battled their way to 117/5 after opting to bat, recovering from a difficult start through a series of useful partnerships. While South Africa's bowlers consistently prevented the innings from gaining sustained momentum, Bangladesh found timely contributions across the order to post a total that at least offered their bowlers something to defend. Marizanne Kapp attempted to steer South Africa home with a composed knock, but Bangladesh's persistence produced another twist when she was run out following confusion with Nadine de Klerk. The dismissal injected fresh belief into the Bangladesh camp, and De Klerk's dismissal to an outstanding catch by Shorna Akter in the 19th over further delayed the inevitable. With five required from the final over, Chloe Tryon received an element of fortune when a thick outside edge raced away for four before calmly squeezing the next delivery into the off side to complete the chase with four balls remaining. Marufa's opening burst, Nahida's double strike and Bangladesh's sharp fielding ensured South Africa never enjoyed complete control despite chasing a below-par target. Yet Dercksen's composed 45, supported by useful contributions from Brits (20), Kapp (16) and De Klerk (15), ultimately proved sufficient to guide the Proteas across the line. With five required from the final over, Chloe Tryon received an element of fortune when a thick outside edge raced away for four before calmly squeezing the next delivery into the off side to complete the chase with four balls remaining. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Bangladesh 117/5 in 20 overs (Sobhana Mostary 42, Nigar Sultana 32*; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-22, Marizanne Kapp 1-9) lost to South Africa (Annerie Derksen 45, Tazmin Brits 20; Nahida Akter 2-24, Ritu Moni 1-24) by 4 wickets. Article Source: IANS

2nd T20I: Debut International Match Gave An unreal Feeling, Says Ireland Pacer Moondra

T20 World Cup: Ireland left-arm pacer Jai Moondra described his maiden international outing in the T20I series opener against India as an unreal feeling and credited his teammates and coaches for helping him stick to the teams plans. Moondras figures of 2-25 helped Ireland beat India by 34 runs and get their first win over the T20 World Cup champions for the first time in international cricket. It was an amazing feeling going out, stepping on international platform, testing yourself against the best in the world. And it was unreal feeling. Can't describe in one word, but it's a different feeling, and have taken it in my book, Moondra said in a chat with broadcasters ahead of the second T20I on Sunday. Asked on what worked well for him, Moondra replied, Well, I probably would say the team plan, what they have been given to me and what they were telling me. It's more credit to the lads and the coaches that have been training with me, giving that to execute the plan, whatever the outcome. Just stick to your plan, your basics, and what you have been working. Just trust on that. It was an amazing feeling going out, stepping on international platform, testing yourself against the best in the world. And it was unreal feeling. Can't describe in one word, but it's a different feeling, and have taken it in my book, Moondra said in a chat with broadcasters ahead of the second T20I on Sunday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Well, after Friday, had a good rest and reset day. And for today, just going with same. Don't try to change anything. Just adapt to the situation, read. International platform is a tricky one. You can have a one day up and down. So just adapt to the situations and do what team is suggesting, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Padikkal fifty, Sudeera five-for before India A, SL A settle for draw

B Sai Sudharsan, who retired hurt on the third day, did not return to bat

India bowl in bid to level series; Prince, Shedge handed T20I debuts

Ireland, who won the first T20I, were unchanged

2nd T20I: Shedge, Prince Handed Debut Caps As India Elect To Bowl Against Unchanged Ireland

Civil Service Cricket Club: Suryansh Shedge and Prince Yadav were handed their maiden caps as India won the toss and elected to bowl first against an unchanged Ireland in the second T20I at the Civil Service Cricket Club in Stormont on Sunday. India needs to win Sundays game to square the two-match series after losing the opening game by 34 runs which also marked their first-ever loss to Ireland in international cricket. After winning the toss, India captain Shreyas Iyer said Shedge and Prince come in for Washington Sundar and Prasidh Krishna in the playing eleven. Shedge is a powerful, destructive batter. Yes, hes a sensational youngster who has been scoring runs in domestic cricket and also in the IPL. Hes got a tremendous amount of experience in youth cricket. So definitely hes performed in the A tours and reaping the benefits. Definitely its Princes first game, so I dont want to put him under that much pressure. Its important that he comes out here and gains the experience out of what is there to offer. He must have seen the match (on Friday), how we played in the previous game. So definitely hes smart enough to adapt to it, he said. Iyer also said his decision to bowl first was also due to the weather conditions. It can pour any time, so we want to maximize the advantage of it. The trend is its just important to adapt to the conditions as quickly as possible. And they were pretty smart in terms of making bowling changes and also scoring off the back foot and front foot, clearing right in the front. So its important that we play smart cricket rather than having a set pattern and see to it that we back our instincts as well at the same time. Yes, it was a bit different, but coming back to the international, it was my first game after a very long time. Weve got many experienced players in the team who have played a considerable amount of matches. So it was just a day off for us and I'm looking forward to having a good one today. Ireland skipper Lorcan Tucker said he was happy to be batting first. We want to get a good read on the pitch as quickly as possible. Hopefully it plays pretty similarly today. I think it might just be about getting a good read on the pitch as quickly as possible, assessing what their bowlers are trying to do. We know they tried to hammer their hard lengths pretty early, and they had good success doing it the other day. But I think it's time to come back, adapt, learn from the other day, and hopefully have a slightly better go and get in the power play. On what pleased him the most about Irelands performance in the first game, Tucker explained, I think the way we put it together in the second innings, the way we shut them down. There were very long periods without boundaries, I think we were able to really dig in, put them under pressure, and the fact we were able to close out the game when they had some big hitters towards the end was exceptional. Matthew, hes fine. Hes a tough lad, so we know hes willing to get out here and play again. We know Harrys a spectacular player. I think 100 (T20I) caps is a testament to all the work hes done and the player he is, so we know he will come good today. Playing XIs: Matthew, hes fine. Hes a tough lad, so we know hes willing to get out here and play again. We know Harrys a spectacular player. I think 100 (T20I) caps is a testament to all the work hes done and the player he is, so we know he will come good today. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ireland: Tim Tector, Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (captain & wk), Benjamin Calitz, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Liam McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys, Jai Moondra, and Matthew Hollard Article Source: IANS

Ravindra misses century but Mitchell grinds NZ towards big lead

Spin introduction provides late breakthrough as England are made to wait for wickets

Womens T20 WC: Sobhana, Sultana Take Bangladesh To 117/5 Against South Africa

T20 World Cup: Bangladesh recovered from a disastrous start to post 117/5 in their 20 overs against South Africa after captain Nigar Sultana's unbeaten late flourish and a resilient third-wicket partnership between Sobhana Mostary and Sharmin Akhter rescued the innings here at the Lords Cricket Ground on Sunday in what is the penultimate group game of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup. On a lively surface that offered movement throughout the morning, South Africa's experienced pace attack, led by Marizanne Kapp and Shabnim Ismail, dictated the early exchanges before the spinners tightened their grip during the middle overs. Bangladesh's decision to bat first came under immediate scrutiny as Kapp struck with the opening delivery of the match. Juairiya Ferdous departed for a golden duck after missing a wild swing, setting the tone for an uncomfortable powerplay against the new ball. Kapp extracted pronounced swing from the outset, repeatedly beating the outside edge, while Ismail's pace and seam movement ensured Bangladesh found little breathing room. The pressure eventually brought another breakthrough when Taj Nehar, after a painstaking stay at the crease, was trapped leg-before by Ismail following a review. At 14/2 after four overs, Bangladesh had managed only a handful of scoring opportunities as South Africa's seamers maintained relentless discipline. Sobhana then steadied the innings with an innings built on patience rather than aggression. Initially content to absorb pressure, she gradually began rotating the strike before capitalising whenever the bowlers erred. Sharmin complemented her approach, and together the pair stitched a valuable 55-run partnership that revived Bangladesh's hopes after the early collapse. The introduction of spin briefly eased the scoring pressure. Mostary swept confidently against Nonkululeko Mlaba and punished Chloe Tryon's loose deliveries, while Sharmin found boundaries square of the wicket and accumulated through intelligent placement. Mostary also produced the innings' first six by pulling Nadine de Klerk over deep square leg, signalling Bangladesh's intent to push beyond the modest total they seemed destined for during the powerplay. Just as the partnership began to gather momentum, South Africa struck back through Mlaba. The left-arm spinner deceived Sharmin Akhter in flight, beating her attempted drive to bowl her for 22 and end the crucial stand. Bangladesh's hopes of accelerating suffered another setback when Mostary, after a hard-earned 42 from 48 deliveries, upper-cut a cleverly disguised slower short ball from de Klerk straight to deep backward point. With Bangladesh reduced to 81/4 and only a few overs remaining, captain Nigar Sultana assumed responsibility for the finish. After taking time to assess the conditions against the returning Ismail, she shifted gears dramatically in the closing overs. Nigar broke the shackles with a sliced boundary off Ayabonga Khaka before launching a powerful slog sweep for the innings' second six. Even after Mlaba removed Shorna Akter in the penultimate over, Nigar continued attacking. She slog-swept another boundary before ending the innings in style, carving consecutive fours off Khaka in the final over to remain unbeaten on 32 from just 20 balls. Bangladesh collected 22 runs across the last two overs, giving the scoreboard a far healthier appearance than had seemed possible earlier. South Africa's bowlers nevertheless remained firmly in control for most of the innings. Kapp's outstanding opening spell of 1/9 from four overs laid the platform, while Ismail's hostile pace returned figures of 1/15. Mlaba proved equally effective through the middle overs with 2/22, and de Klerk's clever changes of pace accounted for the well-set Mostary at a critical stage. Even after Mlaba removed Shorna Akter in the penultimate over, Nigar continued attacking. She slog-swept another boundary before ending the innings in style, carving consecutive fours off Khaka in the final over to remain unbeaten on 32 from just 20 balls. Bangladesh collected 22 runs across the last two overs, giving the scoreboard a far healthier appearance than had seemed possible earlier. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief Scores: Bangladesh 117/5 in 20 overs (Sobhana Mostary 42, Nigar Sultana 32*; Nonkululeko Mlaba 2-22, Marizanne Kapp 1-9) against South Africa Article Source: IANS

PCB overhauls department cricket with steep fee hike, mandatory player contracts

The participation fee to play in the President's Trophy and President's Cup this season has nearly tripled

Bangladesh opt to bat, SA unchanged in high-stakes game

Bangladesh brought in Taj Nehar for Dilara Akter at the top of the order

Womens T20 WC: Bangladesh Opt To Bat Against Unchanged South Africa In Final Group Clash

Most Sharmin Akter Supta: Bangladesh won the toss and elected to bat against South Africa in the penultimate group-stage game of the ICC Womens T20 World Cup at the Lords Cricket Ground on Sunday. The Proteas enter this must-win clash with their semifinal hopes hanging by a thread. After opening their campaign with a heavy 65-run defeat to Australia, a result that badly dented their net run rate, Laura Wolvaardt's side have responded admirably with three successive victories to climb back into contention. Their NRR has improved to +0.734, but it still trails India's commanding +2.268, leaving the Proteas with very little margin for error. While there remains a mathematical possibility of overtaking India on net run rate, it would require an extraordinary victory margin that appears highly unlikely. The simpler route is clear: beat Bangladesh and hope Australia defeat India later in the day. If the defending champions do their part, South Africa's place in the semifinals will be secured without any need for complicated calculations. The Proteas will also take confidence from their impressive record against Bangladesh, having won 12 of their 14 completed T20Is. Bangladesh, meanwhile, are staring at an early exit themselves and will also be playing at Lord's for the first time, adding another challenge to an already difficult assignment. Bangladesh currently have four points from four matches and probably won't advance to the semi-final. Their best chance is to beat South Africa by over 100 runs and then hope Australia beat India by an even bigger margin. For South Africa, the equation is straightforward but unforgiving. Win first, then wait for the result from the second game of the double-header. Anything less, and their World Cup campaign could come to an end despite a spirited comeback after a difficult start. Winning the toss, Bangladesh captain Nigar Sultana Joty said, Looking at the conditions, we felt it would be good to put runs on the board. We have one change from the last game - Taj Nehar comes in for Dilara Akter. It's another opportunity for us. There have been a lot of positives to take from this tournament, but we really want to finish with a win. It's a great chance for the team to end the tournament on a high. Meanwhile, South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt said, Probably would've had a bowl anyway. Unchanged today. We've had a couple of close games along the way. We're finding ways to win. Hopefully we can do that again. Numbers are pretty massive that we need to get (the NRR equations). Will take one ball at a time. Winning is the priority. Playing XIs: Meanwhile, South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt said, Probably would've had a bowl anyway. Unchanged today. We've had a couple of close games along the way. We're finding ways to win. Hopefully we can do that again. Numbers are pretty massive that we need to get (the NRR equations). Will take one ball at a time. Winning is the priority. Also Read: Live Cricket Score South Africa: Laura Wolvaardt (c), Tazmin Brits, Annerie Dercksen, Dane Van Niekerk, Marizanne Kapp, Nadine De Klerk, Chloe Tryon, Sinalo Jafta (wk), Shabnim Ismail, Ayabonga Khaka, Nonkululeko Mlaba Article Source: IANS

Best Person To Tackle Perry Would Be Shree Charani: Shikha Pandey Backs India To Stick With Winning Combination Against AUS

T20 World Cup: India pacer Shikha Pandey believes that India should resist the temptation to make further changes to their playing XI and instead trust the side that defeated Bangladesh when they face Australia in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup on Sunday at the iconic Lord's. Speaking ahead of the crucial Group A clash, Shikha also assessed the key individual battles likely to shape the contest, identifying how Shafali Verma can counter Australia's new-ball attack and naming the bowler she believes is best equipped to contain Ellyse Perry. Shikha urged the Indian team management to show faith in the current combination rather than continue rotating the pace attack. I'm not going to make any more changes to the playing XI. We need to back our players a little more. The very fact that, from game one to game four, we've never played the same combination of two pacers in consecutive games tells you that we have chopped and changed too much. I would want to give them that freedom and let them feel settled. We got a good win against Bangladesh, so just go into the game against Australia with the same positive attitude, Shikha told JioStar. The former fast bowler also weighed in on the challenge of stopping Australia's in-form all-rounder Ellyse Perry, praising the veteran's continued evolution while explaining the type of bowling that could trouble her. It's not just her batting. The two times she has come on to bowl for Australia, she has taken wickets on both occasions. Some of the shots she played against Pakistan were amazing. She handled the short-pitched deliveries from Diana Baig very well; she was clinical. Another shot that she's added to her repertoire is the scoop. For a player who has played international cricket for so many years, to go back, work on new shots, and reinvent herself is just amazing to watch, she added. Shikha then pointed to the qualities India should rely on against Perry before naming her preferred matchup. Someone who can seam and swing the ball late is the kind of bowler you would want against Ellyse Perry. Arundhati Reddy did that for India in the series earlier this year. But given the form she's been in, she might not even play this game. The best person to tackle Perry would be Shree Charani, given the way she has been bowling, Shikha stated. Looking ahead to India's batting, Shikha highlighted the contest between opener Shafali Verma and Australia's new-ball bowlers, warning that the visitors have multiple options capable of testing the aggressive right-hander. Kim Garth is a very skilful bowler. Kim Garth and Sophie Molineux have been opening the bowling for Australia mostly. They've also made a change, bringing in the young left-arm medium pacer, Lucy Hamilton. So, if Hamilton plays, she'll probably try the short-pitched delivery at Shafali, which has been her undoing in a few games, the pacer noted. However, Shikha believes Shafali's recent form offers India plenty of encouragement and suggested a straightforward approach against Australia's left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux. Kim Garth is a very skilful bowler. Kim Garth and Sophie Molineux have been opening the bowling for Australia mostly. They've also made a change, bringing in the young left-arm medium pacer, Lucy Hamilton. So, if Hamilton plays, she'll probably try the short-pitched delivery at Shafali, which has been her undoing in a few games, the pacer noted. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With a place in the knockout stage at stake, India will hope the tactical battles unfold in their favour as they prepare for one of their toughest assignments of the tournament against six-time champions Australia. Article Source: IANS

Zimbabwe opt to bowl; Bangladesh hand debuts to Amite Hasan and Towhid Hridoy

For Zimbabwe, Wessly Madhevere took the spot of Sikandar Raza but there was no room for Graeme Cremer

Belfast City Hall Lights Up In Tricolour As CGI Hosts Special Reception For Team India

Civil Service Cricket Club: The Consulate General of India (CGI) in Belfast hosted a special reception for Team India, who are in Ireland for the two-match T20I series, in the Northern Ireland capital. Consul General of India Kiran Khatri welcomed the 'Men in Blue' as they will take on the hosts in the second match of the series here at the Civil Service Cricket Club on Sunday. The India men's cricket team returned to Ireland three years after their last visit. To welcome Team India, Belfast City Hall was lit up in the Indian tricolour. Sport remains one of the warmest bridges between our peoples. Wishing the Men in Blue the very best! CGI Belfast posted on X. Meanwhile, the BCCI shared the glimpses of the event on X with a caption, An evening of warmth, camaraderie and the Indian spirit in Belfast. The Consulate General of India in Belfast (@CGIBelfast) welcomed #TeamIndia at a special reception hosted by Ms Kiran Khatri, Consul General of India. Joined by members of the Indian community and distinguished guests, the occasion reflected the enduring appeal of cricket in bringing people closer. India and Ireland have met on eight occasions previously in T20Is, with India winning all eight, the last encounter being at the 2024 ICC Mens T20 World Cup in New York. Before the ongoing tour, India's last T20I on Irish soil was in 2023. The teams last played at Stormont in 2007, an ODI which India won by nine wickets. However, Ireland broke a winless run against India in the opening T20I by registering their first-ever win over reigning world T20 champions by 34 runs. India and Ireland have met on eight occasions previously in T20Is, with India winning all eight, the last encounter being at the 2024 ICC Mens T20 World Cup in New York. Before the ongoing tour, India's last T20I on Irish soil was in 2023. The teams last played at Stormont in 2007, an ODI which India won by nine wickets. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 34-run win marks Ireland's first-ever triumph against India across all formats of the game. Article Source: IANS

'An amazing day' - Amir Jangoo takes in double-hundred after late call-up

Captain Roston Chase ended a more than seven-year wait for another hundred in what became a mammoth sixth-wicket stand

Shedge replaces injured Reddy for T20Is in Ireland and England

Uncapped allrounder was part of the India A team that won the 50-over tri-series in Sri Lanka

Sports Council Secretary Nuzhat Gull Thanks PM Modi As Centre Approves Landmark NCOE For J&K

Kashmir Sports Council Nuzhat Gull: Jammu and Kashmir Sports Council Nuzhat Gull expressed her deep gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after the central government approved the establishment of the Union Territorys first-ever National Centre of Excellence (NCOE). Over the past few years, Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a major surge in sporting achievements on national and international stages, a momentum that the new Centre of Excellence aims to strengthen. Our vision is to make Jammu & Kashmir a leading sporting Union Territory not just in winter sports, but across disciplines. We want structured grassroots programmes, professional coaching, scientific training methods and international exposure. Sports should contribute to social developmentgenerating employment, promoting tourism and providing constructive engagement for youth. Today, our athletes are not just participating; they are competing and winning. Our mission is to create better sports infrastructure, empower youth, and build a brighter future for Jammu & Kashmir. We are highly thankful to the PM Narendra Modi for sanctioning the first-ever NCOE for Jammu and Kashmir, which will greatly contribute to the professional sports across J&K, she said. Since assuming charge as secretary of the JJ&K Sports Council in 2021, Nuzhat has led effort to strengthen sports infrastructure, expand grassroots participation, create opportunities for young athletes, and position the Union Territory as a national sporting destination. Under her tenure, the sport council expanded training programmes into districts and rural areas, ensuring that children from remote regions received structured coaching and competitive exposure rather than focusing only on elite athletes. As the first woman to lead the Sports Council, Nuzhat's tenure has seen continued encouragement of female participation across sporting disciplines, increased visibility for women athletes, and greater emphasis on creating safe and inclusive sporting environments. Sports infrastructure was revitalised across the Union Territory, with stadiums, indoor halls, Khelo India coaching centres and playing fields becoming more accessible. The Council also encouraged year-round activity by opening sports facilities for community use, including extending access into evening hours so that students and working youth could train regularly. As the first woman to lead the Sports Council, Nuzhat's tenure has seen continued encouragement of female participation across sporting disciplines, increased visibility for women athletes, and greater emphasis on creating safe and inclusive sporting environments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There has been the increasing success of J&K athletes across disciplines, including winter sports, football, martial arts, athletics, cricket, boxing, wrestling, fencing, Taekwondo, judo and many others, as athletes from the Union Territory have consistently secured medals at national and international competitions, courtesy tp the the strengthened support system created by the Sports Council, which has provided improved infrastructure, coaching, exposure, and opportunities for athletes to compete at higher levels. Article Source: IANS

Chaudhary's last-ball six wins it for Freedom after Hosein's hat-trick

Mitchell Owen set up Freedom's chase with 77 off 35 before the match hurtled towards a chaotic finish

Prolific West Indies batter Charlie Davis dies aged 82

In a Test career that ran from 1968 to 1973, Davis scored 1301 runs at an average of 54.20

WI vs SL 1st Test: Amir Jangoo And Roston Chase Put West Indies In Control Against Sri Lanka

A double-century by relative newcomer Amir Jangoo and 194 from captain Roston Chase put the West Indies in a commanding position with the sixth-wicket pair's partnership of 401 lifting the home side to a mammoth first innings total of 626 for nine declared on the third day of the first Test against Sri Lanka at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua on Saturday. Sri Lanka, who looked a dispirited lot, completely bereft of ideas in the field for almost the entire day, lost Pathum Nissanka to Jayden Seales before the close of play, leaving them at 15 for one in the second innings, trailing on by 303 runs going into day four. I am not one to really put pressure on myself. Even though I wasn't getting the runs, my priority has been to get the best out of my teammates, said Chase in putting his sixth Test century, more than seven years after his fifth, into context. Of course it's good not just to lead by words but on the field of play as well and we have been talking a lot about finally getting our first win in this World Test Championship (cycle). On another sun-drenched day, Jangoo and Chase took full toll of their listless opponents, who were again without the services of injured seamer Lahiru Kumara. Yet the visitors' overall effort revealed a lack of imagination from captain Dhananjaya de Silva through the fruitless morning and afternoon sessions as the West Indies pair accumulated runs with increasing ease, having started the day at 271 for five. Nothing, though, could diminish the significance of the stand by the compact left-hander seeking to take full advantage of an unexpected opportunity and the slim, upright right-handed skipper who turned his first Test century for more than seven years into a truly special innings. Such was the level of their dominance that it seemed they could have batted through the entire day, having come together at the start of play after tea on the second day when the West Indies were labouring at 168 for five in reply to Sri Lanka's first innings total of 308, which then seemed a substantial effort. Indeed, they were only separated when Jangoo, who transformed his maiden Test century into a memorable 233, skied an attempted swing to leg off Milan Rathnayaka for wicketkeeper Kusal Mendis to pouch a comfortable catch. This was a failed effort to repeat the shot of a ball before when he hoisted the medium-pacer for six over deep backward-square-leg to lift the partnership to 401. - Second-highest partnership - It now stands as the second-highest partnership in Test cricket for any wicket by the West Indies, bettered only by the 446 put on by Garfield Sobers and Conrad Hunte for the second wicket against Pakistan in Kingston, Jamaica in 1958 and just two runs ahead of the 399 amassed by Sobers and his mentor, Frank Worrell, for the fourth wicket against England in their native Bridgetown, Barbados in 1960. That one hook for six before Jangoo's demise also put him and Chase at the top of the list for the highest sixth-wicket partnership in all Test cricket, surpassing the 399 by the England pair of Ben Stokes and Jonny Bairstow against South Africa in Cape Town in the New Year's Test of 2016. Having only gotten into the final 11 for this match when established middle-order batsman Shai Hope was ruled out on the first morning with a strained left shoulder, Jangoo's innings of more than eight hours at the crease occupied 373 deliveries, embellished by three sixes and 19 fours. Faced with a rising tide of regional dissent towards his so far unsuccessful Test captaincy, compounded by a lack of runs off his own bat, Chase's disappointment at falling six short of a double-century, bowled round his legs by spinner Sonal Dinusha, would have been eased by the volume of his contribution, an innings which occupied 324 deliveries and was highlighted by two sixes and 13 fours. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Amid the carnage, Rathnayaka completed a deserved five-wicket haul, trapping Kemar Roach leg-before to achieve the personal milestone and prompt Chase's declaration.

LAKR lose 10 for 50 after Pooran rescues MI New York

Colin Munro's run out sparked a dramatic collapse while Romario Shepherd produced the most economical figures in MLC

Wyatt-Hodge, Dunkley lead romp as NZ bow out; WI through

They shared an unbroken 128-run stand for the second wicket as England continued their unbeaten run and also helped WI sneak into the semi-final

Foulkes hopes cracked pitch will crack England open, as NZ target series win

Seamer expects spin to play a big part in the contest's closing stages, as visitors scent victory

TG20 Season 1: Aryan Cariappa, Avanish Rao Star As Ranga Reddy Risers Outclass Palamuru Strikers

Ranga Reddy Risers: Ranga Reddy Risers produced a clinical all-round display to defeat Palamuru Strikers by six wickets in the Hyderabad Cricket Association's TG20 in Hyderabad on Friday. Aryan Cariappa's four-wicket haul set up the victory before Avanish Rao and Gnana Prakash Reddy capped it with the bat. It was a sticky start to the innings for the Strikers, who lost two wickets in as many overs to leave them reeling at 2/2. B Punnaiah struck first by removing Chaitanya Reddy (0 off 1), before Tanay Thyagarajann dismissed Pragnay Reddy (1 off 3) in the following over. Vignesh Reddy then attempted to rebuild alongside Rohit Rayudu, counterattacking with a six and a four to lift the score to 26/2 after five overs. Just when the innings appeared to be stabilising, Aryan Cariappa delivered another breakthrough by dismissing Rohit Rayudu (7 off 12), reducing the Strikers to 31/3 at the end of the powerplay. Shadab Ahmed (22 off 15) joined Vignesh Reddy, and the pair added useful runs through the middle overs, taking the score to 63/4 after 10 overs despite N Rakesh removing Shadab. Vignesh continued to anchor the innings while Pratheek Pawar (14 off 12) provided brief support. The batting stumbled in the 15th over when Cariappa ripped through the middle order. After Pratheek struck a boundary, Cariappa dismissed him on the very next ball before trapping Afreedi Ahmed (0 off 1) to complete a double strike in the over. The twin blows left the Strikers reeling at 98/6 after 15 overs, with Vignesh Reddy still at the crease but running out of partners and time. Strikers' innings folded quickly after Tanay dismissed the well-set Vignesh in the 16th over. A brief flourish from Rishab Baslas (8 off 7) and Rathan Teja (15 off 9) was cut short by Punnaiah and Cariappa. With nine wickets down, the drama intensified as Aryan Cariappa's sharp bouncer struck Ravi Kiran on the helmet, forcing him to retire hurt and prompting a concussion substitute. Prithvi Reddy (5 off 4) came in as the replacement but was dismissed by Rakesh with the first ball of the final over, as the Strikers were bowled out for 130 in 19.1 overs the joint-lowest total of the season. Risers made a flying start to the chase, with openers Gnana Prakash Reddy and Avanish Rao taking complete control from the outset. Gnana blazed away with a series of boundaries and sixes, while Avanish matched him stroke for stroke as the duo raced to 66 without loss at the end of the powerplay before extending their opening stand to 87 in the ninth over. Strikers finally found a breakthrough when Rishab dismissed Gnana Prakash for a scintillating 47-run knock in 27 balls, but the wicket did little to slow the scoring. Avanish kept the momentum going, taking the Risers past 100 in the 11th over. Although Baslas, Prithvi, and Rathan chipped away with wickets, Avanish continued to dominate, smashing three successive boundaries off Prithvi to keep the chase firmly on track, bringing up his second half-century before losing his wicket in the 12th over after scoring 50 off 32. With the target well within reach, Tanay and Aditya Javvaji calmly guided the innings through the closing overs. The Risers never lost control, as Tanay finished with a boundary to steer his side to 131/4 in 14 overs, completing a commanding six-wicket victory with six overs to spare. Strikers finally found a breakthrough when Rishab dismissed Gnana Prakash for a scintillating 47-run knock in 27 balls, but the wicket did little to slow the scoring. Avanish kept the momentum going, taking the Risers past 100 in the 11th over. Although Baslas, Prithvi, and Rathan chipped away with wickets, Avanish continued to dominate, smashing three successive boundaries off Prithvi to keep the chase firmly on track, bringing up his second half-century before losing his wicket in the 12th over after scoring 50 off 32. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Palamuru Strikers 130 all out in 19.1 overs (Vignesh Reddy 46, Shadab Ahmed 22, Aryan Cariappa 4/31, Bhuvanagiri Punnaiah 2/17) lost to Ranga Reddy Risers 131/4 in 14 overs (Avanish Rao 50, Gnana Prakash Reddy 47, Rishab Baslas 2/24, Rathan Teja 1/17) by six wickets Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: 'The Belief Was Always There,' Says Prendergast After Guiding Ireland To Victory

T20 World Cup: Player of the Match Orla Prendergast said Ireland's belief never faded despite a difficult tournament after her match-winning half-century guided the team to its first-ever victory in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup with a six-wicket win over West Indies at the County Ground on Saturday. Prendergast produced a brilliant 63 off 44 balls, hitting eight fours and two sixes, as Ireland comfortably chased down 129 in 18.1 overs. The all-rounder also contributed in the field as Ireland completed a memorable all-round performance to end their campaign on a high. Reflecting on the historic victory, Prendergast said the win was especially satisfying because the squad had remained confident throughout the tournament despite a series of disappointing results. It just means so much. We've had the belief throughout this tournament, and unfortunately, it hasn't come together just yet. But the belief we all had was there constantly. So just so much relief to finally have that win and so much happiness, Prendergast said after receiving the Player of the Match award. Ireland had suffered a narrow defeat to New Zealand earlier in the tournament while chasing a similar target, but Prendergast said the team approached this run chase differently. Yeah, just a different tempo in the chase, I think. But I think they're pretty different games, to be honest, and different conditions. Just glad today we came off, she said. Prendergast shared a match-defining 62-run partnership with Amy Hunter after Ireland lost captain Gaby Lewis early in the innings. She revealed that the conversations between the pair were simple and focused on batting together for as long as possible. Me and Amy, you don't talk about a whole lot out there, to be honest, when we're batting. Just keeping the partnership going. When you're the runner, it wasn't too much of an issue, so you just stayed there together. We knew we could put ourselves in a good position, she said. Before her batting heroics, Ireland's bowlers had laid the platform by restricting West Indies to 128/7. Aimee Maguire and Cara Murray picked up two wickets each, while the fielders backed up the bowlers with an energetic display. Prendergast believes the team's performance in the field was one of its best of the tournament. Yeah, an entire performance. I think it was probably our best fielding performance to date, which is so pleasing. And yeah, I think that's the great thing about this side, is everyone stands up on different days, and today was the definition of that day, she said. The all-rounder also thanked the Ireland supporters who travelled to Bristol as well as fans cheering from home, saying their backing had played an important role throughout the competition. Yeah, an entire performance. I think it was probably our best fielding performance to date, which is so pleasing. And yeah, I think that's the great thing about this side, is everyone stands up on different days, and today was the definition of that day, she said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ireland's memorable victory was built on a disciplined bowling display before Prendergast anchored the chase with a composed and aggressive innings, helping her side reach the target with 11 balls to spare and secure a landmark first Women's T20 World Cup win. Article Source: IANS

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Manish Pandey Guides Gulbarga Mystics To Thrilling Victory

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Tournament: Experienced batter Manish Pandey rolled back the years with a composed unbeaten 43 as Gulbarga Mystics registered a thrilling three-wicket victory over Mysuru Warriors in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 Tournament in Hubbali on Saturday. Chasing a modest target of 156, the Mystics appeared to be cruising at 66 for one before a dramatic collapse triggered by Ritesh Bhatkal, reduced them to 77 for four. Pandey then anchored the chase with his trademark calmness, steering his side home with seven balls to spare. Batting at No. 6, Pandey remained unbeaten on 43 off 31 deliveries, striking five boundaries, as he held his nerve despite wickets falling around him. B R Sharath provided the early impetus with a brisk 49 off 27 balls, laced with four fours and three sixes. Bhatkal produced an inspired spell of 4 for 20 to drag the Warriors back into the contest. The experienced off-spinner first broke the opening stand by dismissing Lochan Gowda (18) before ripping through the middle order. He removed Prakhar Chaturvedi (4), Macneil Noronha (1), and Thippa Reddy (2) in a devastating burst to leave the Mystics in trouble. However, his efforts ultimately went unrewarded. Earlier, put in to bat, Mysuru Warriors once again failed to convert promising starts into a competitive total, finishing on 155 for seven. Openers LR Chethan (24 off 12 balls, three sixes) and S U Karthik (20) added 36 for the first wicket before the innings lost momentum. Vishal Onat fell cheaply as the Warriors reached 56 for two at the end of the Power-play. The innings was then rebuilt by K P Karthikeya, who struck a fighting 63 off 43 balls with two fours and four sixes. Arriving at the crease with the score at 50 for two, the 20-year-old carried the batting through the middle and latter stages, adding valuable runs with the lower order. Karthikeya was run out off the final ball of the innings after failing to beat a sharp throw from Pandey in the deep, capping a fine all-round contribution from the former India international. With their third win in five matches, Gulbarga Mystics moved up to second place on the points table with six points, leapfrogging Coastal Kings Mangaluru and trailing leaders Bengaluru Blasters by two points. Mysuru Warriors, meanwhile, slumped to their fourth defeat in five matches and remain rooted to the bottom of the standings with two points. With their third win in five matches, Gulbarga Mystics moved up to second place on the points table with six points, leapfrogging Coastal Kings Mangaluru and trailing leaders Bengaluru Blasters by two points. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Mysuru Warriors 155/7 in 20 overs (KP Karthikeya 63, LR Chethan 24, S U Karthik 20; Ronit More 2/31) lost to Gulbarga Mystics 156/7 in 18.5 overs (B R Sharath 49, Manish Pandey 43 not out, Vijaykumar Kranthi Kumar 21; Ritesh Bhatkal 4/20, K P Karthikeya 2/35) by three wickets. Article Source: IANS

Molineux wants to 'double down' on the pressure on India

India cannot afford any mistakes with semi-final spot on the line. Australia, meanwhile, have already qualified

IRE vs IND 2nd T20I Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI

IRE vs IND 2nd T20I , Cricket Tips :Team India were stunned and embarrassed in the first T20I in Belfast by an injury-hit Ireland. That helped the hosts to record a historic maiden win over the three-time world champions. Shreyas Iyer didn't have a good captaincy start, and there were some questions raised over India's selection and combination. India will be desperate to bounce back and make it 1-1 to avoid even bigger embarrassment of losing the series. Notably, they have not lost a T20I series in the last two years. Vaibhav Suryavanshi didn't have a chance, and he might have to wait a little more. Ireland will be confident and will look to record a memorable series win. IRE vs IND: Match Details Date : June 28, 2026 (Sunday) Time : 6:00 PM IST Venue : Civil Service Cricket Club, Belfast IRE vs IND: Live Streaming Details Indian fans can watch the live action on the Sony Sports Networks. Fans can also watch the game on the Sony LIV app or website. IRE vs IND: Head-to-Head in T20I Total Matches : 09 India : 08 Ireland : 01 No-result : 00 IRE vs IND: Ground Pitch Report The wicket in Belfast has good bounce and pace. Fast bowlers can use these conditions to good effect. The new ball will do a bit for the first 4-5 overs. That will be a challenging period. There is no need to rush, and batters can spend time on the crease and score big. IRE vs IND: Possible XIs Ireland : Tim Tector, Ross Adair, Harry Tector, Lorcan Tucker (c) (wk), Ben Calitz, Gareth Delany, George Dockrell, Liam McCarthy, Matthew Humphreys, Jai Moondra, Matthew Hollard India : Abhishek Sharma, Ishan Kishan, Sanju Samson (wk), Shreyas Iyer (c), Tilak Varma, Shivam Dube, Axar Patel, Washington Sundar, Harshit Rana, Arshdeep Singh, Prasidh Krishna IRE vs IND: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Abhishek Sharma is an in-form Indian batter. He showed it with a 19-ball fifty. For Ireland, captain Lorcan Tucker has been the key batter, who is scoring well. These two will be the ones to watch out for. Probable Best Bowler Harshit Rana used the bounce and pace well and showed that he can do well in these conditions. For Ireland, Matthew Hollard had a great display and will be a tough bowler to face. Today Match Prediction : Ireland won the first game, but India are still the better side between the two. Hence, we predict India to win the second game. IRE vs IND Match 2nd T20, Today Match IRE vs IND, IRE vs IND Prediction, IRE vs IND Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Ireland vs India Match 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.

ZIM vs BAN One-off Test Prediction, Match Preview And Playing XI

ZIM vs BAN One-off Test , Cricket Tips :Bangladesh are on a tour of Zimbabwe for the multi-format series in June and July. These two sides will play three T20Is, three ODIs, and a one-off test. The action will start with the red-ball cricket. These two teams step onto the field on Sunday at 1 PM IST at Harare Sports Club. Najmul Hossain Shanto will lead the hosts, and they are coming off a 2-0 whitewash against Pakistan at home. They will be confident for another good show in this format. Nahid Rana is a big miss for the visitors, who have played a key role in their success. Richard Ngarava will lead Zimbabwe. The hosts will see the returns of Innocent Kaia and Graeme Cremer. ZIM vs BAN: Match Details Date : June 28 - July 2, 2026 (Sunday-Thursday) Time : 1:00 PM IST Venue : Harare Sports Club, Harare ZIM vs BAN: Live Streaming Details In India, fans can watch the live action of the test match on the FanCode mobile app or website. ZIM vs BAN: Head-to-Head in Test Total Matches: 20 Zimbabwe : 08 Bangladesh : 09 No-result : 03 ZIM vs BAN: Ground Pitch Report Harare Sports Club offers a slow wicket, which tends to get slower with time. Early on, the wicket will be good to bat on for the first two days. But it is expected to get slow and low, which will make it tough for the batting side. Batting last will be tough in Harare. ZIM vs BAN: Possible XIs Zimbabwe : Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Craig Ervine, Brendan Taylor, Wessly Madhevere, Roy Kaia, Brad Evans, Tafadzwa Tsiga (wk), Blessing Muzarabani, Richard Ngarava (C), Graeme Cremer Bangladesh : Mahmudul Hasan Joy, Shadman Islam, Mominul Haque, Najmul Hossain Shanto (C), Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahidul Islam (wk), Taijul Islam, Nayeem Hassan, Ebadot Hossain, Hasan Mahmud, Khaled Ahmed ZIM vs BAN: Player to Watch Out For Probable Best Batter Brian Bennett has been the consistent batter for Zimbabwe across formats and has pretty impressive numbers at home. For Bangladesh, captain Najmul Shanto did well against Pakistan, and he is in good form. Probable Best Bowler Captain Richard Ngarava has been the pick of the bowler, who will be tough to face. For Bangladesh, Taijul Islam will get good assistance from this wicket, and he will be lethal. Today Match Prediction : Bangladesh are coming off a good show in recent times. They have a strong batting unit, and we predict them to win this game. ZIM vs BAN Match One-off Test, Today Match ZIM vs BAN, ZIM vs BAN Prediction, ZIM vs BAN Predicted XIs, Injury Update for Zimbabwe vs Bangladesh Match 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.

Women's T20 WC: Prendergast's Half-century Powers Ireland To Historic Six-wicket Win Over West Indies

T20 World Cup: Ireland scripted history by registering their first-ever victory in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup as Orla Prendergast produced a match-winning knock of 63 to guide her side to a comfortable six-wicket win over West Indies in their final Group Stage match at the County Ground on Saturday. Chasing a modest target of 129, Ireland remained composed throughout the innings before reaching 129/4 in 18.1 overs with 11 balls to spare. Prendergast led the chase with an attacking 63 off 44 deliveries, while Amy Hunter chipped in with a valuable 28 as Ireland completed one of the most memorable victories in their Women's T20 World Cup history. Ireland made a cautious start to the chase, scoring only three runs in the opening over. West Indies kept the pressure on early as spinner Ashmini Munisar conceded just five runs in the second over, forcing the batters to play carefully. Amy Hunter then shifted the momentum in Ireland's favour despite surviving an early chance. After being dropped off the first ball of Hayley Matthews' over, Hunter made West Indies pay by smashing a boundary and a six to release the pressure. West Indies eventually found the breakthrough in the fifth over when Munisar dismissed captain Gaby Lewis for nine off 11 deliveries. Lewis attempted an aggressive stroke but failed to find the elevation and was caught after a slow start. Prendergast joined Hunter at the crease and immediately looked positive. She struck a boundary off just her third delivery and focused on rotating the strike alongside Hunter. The pair avoided unnecessary dot balls and steadily rebuilt the innings as Ireland reached 37/1 at the end of the Powerplay. The duo continued to build patiently after the fielding restrictions. They collected only three runs from the seventh over against Qiana Joseph before Prendergast responded with a boundary in the following over to keep the required rate comfortably under control. Prendergast soon took complete charge of the chase. She hammered Joseph for a four and a six in the ninth over before Ireland reached 66/1 at the halfway stage. Her aggressive strokeplay left the West Indies bowlers searching for answers as she regularly found gaps and punished loose deliveries. She continued her fine timing by hitting two more boundaries in the 12th over, taking Ireland within touching distance of victory. West Indies finally ended the 62-run partnership in the 13th over when Afy Fletcher dismissed Hunter with a well-flighted delivery. Hunter contributed a patient 28 from 32 balls, including one four and one six. Prendergast, however, remained unfazed. She brought up a superb half-century off just 35 balls with a boundary on the first ball of the 14th over and continued to dominate the bowling attack. Matthews eventually dismissed the Irish all-rounder after she attempted another attacking stroke. Prendergast walked back after a brilliant innings of 63 from 44 deliveries, decorated with eight fours and two sixes, having all but sealed the result for her team. West Indies picked up another wicket in the following over as Leah Paul departed cheaply, but Rebecca Stokell ensured there were no further hiccups. She struck two timely boundaries in the 18th over and remained unbeaten on 16 as Ireland completed the chase with ease. Earlier, Ireland produced a disciplined bowling display to restrict West Indies to 128/7 after opting to bowl first. The Irish bowlers struck early when Aimee Maguire dismissed opener Qiana Joseph for eight after she failed to clear the infield while attempting an attacking shot. West Indies captain Hayley Matthews briefly counterattacked with two elegant boundaries, but Ireland continued to strike at regular intervals. Arlene Kelly removed Shemaine Campbell after recovering well from an expensive start, leaving the Caribbean side under pressure inside the Powerplay. Matthews and experienced batter Stafanie Taylor attempted to rebuild through a cautious partnership, relying mainly on singles and twos as Ireland's bowlers maintained disciplined lines. West Indies reached only 40/2 after six overs. Matthews looked set for a bigger score before Cara Murray provided another breakthrough. The skipper was caught at square leg by Rebecca Stokell for 22 from 25 balls after hitting three boundaries. Taylor and Deandra Dottin tried to revive the innings but found scoring increasingly difficult against Ireland's tight spin attack. At the halfway stage, the West Indies had crawled to just 54/3. The pressure continued to build as Aimee Maguire trapped Taylor's leg before wicket for 16 off 26 balls, leaving West Indies struggling to accelerate. Chinelle Henry injected some momentum with positive strokeplay, finding the boundary early in her innings, while Dottin rotated the strike. The pair threatened to provide a late flourish before Jane Maguire dismissed Dottin for 21 off 28 deliveries, with Prendergast taking a safe catch. Ireland tightened their grip further when Cara Murray removed Jahzara Claxton in the 17th over, reducing West Indies to 101/6. Henry continued to fight till the end, striking three boundaries during an unbeaten 27 from 21 balls, while Ashmini Munisar added useful late runs to help West Indies finish on 128/7. Ireland tightened their grip further when Cara Murray removed Jahzara Claxton in the 17th over, reducing West Indies to 101/6. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies 128/7 in 20 overs (Chinelle Henry 27*, Hayley Matthews 22, Deandra Dottin 21; Cara Murray 2-13, Aimee Maguire 2-22) lost to Ireland 129/4 in 18.1 overs (Orla Prendergast 63, Amy Hunter 28; Ashmini Munisar 2-28, Hayley Matthews 1-25) by six wickets. Article Source: IANS

Prendergast, spinners give Ireland their first win in T20 World Cups

The Ireland allrounder hits a classy fifty to dent West Indies' hopes of qualifying for the semi-final

Orange Cap In TGT20, Stint With RR, And The SMAT Over That Changed Everything - Inside Aman Rao's Rise

U23 Col CK Nayudu Trophy: In October 2025, Aman Rao was feeling stuck. A string of failures in the U23 Col CK Nayudu Trophy came after a promising start, and the young right-handed opener found himself searching for answers beyond his own dressing room. Cut to the present, and those times of struggle in October 2025 look as if they happened a long while back. Rao sits atop the Orange Cap standings in the Telangana T20 League (TGT20) with 192 runs in three innings, including striking the tournament's first century in only 32 balls, en route to smashing 142 off 48 deliveries for Warangal Warriors. It is that kind of innings that had the audience at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium feeling enthralled. That 142, remarkably, came in a losing cause, with Warangal Warriors going down in a thriller despite posting 258, as Tilak Varmas unbeaten 136 took Medak Falcons over the line. Rao barely had time to dwell on that astonishing innings coming off his willow before turning his attention to the Warriors' next match happening on Sunday. While I was playing, it was just like a flow state. I don't know what was happening. So, I was just reacting to the ball and playing it. Then, after it was done, I took some time to process what I had done that day, and then I had to play a match the day after. So, I had to leave that behind, also at the same time. So, I mean, it was a good feeling, but we lost, so not so great, he said in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Saturday. As Aman explained, his approach at the crease is built around clarity rather than recklessness. He looks to target deliveries in his strong zones and back himself to clear the ropes, a method that has fuelled his run of boundary-heavy scores this season, including a knock of 46 where every run came off boundaries only. But theres an innate sense of honesty when Rao speaks about where that intent occasionally overstepped its mark. He recalls straying into playing deliveries that were not really there to be hit, a lapse he intends to correct by sticking strictly to the balls within his zone going forward. Despite leading the Orange Cap race, Rao insisted the individual landmark is secondary to the team's ambitions. Yes, the Orange Cap is a good feeling, but I feel that if we win the tournament, it will be a cherry on top. So, I just don't think about it much, like I am on top of the Orange Cap or something. I just try to do what's best on that day, and hopefully, the results will come by, and the Orange Cap is a part of the process. Like, if we win, if I score, things will keep coming. So, that's not something I think about that much. I just think about how to perform on that day rather than try to sit on top of the leaderboard of the Orange Cap. It is a philosophy, he says, that keeps him grounded through a campaign that has otherwise thrust him into the spotlight. Long before TGT20, Rao had already announced himself on the bigger stage with an unbeaten 200 off 154 balls in the Vijay Hazare Trophy, against a Bengal attack featuring Mohammed Shami, Akash Deep, and Mukesh Kumar. Honestly, I didn't know I was close to 200. I was just playing and didn't know the score till the last ball. I think they shouted from outside that I needed six runs. Then I was like, I am just hitting till then and might as well hit one more. That was in my mind, and I wasnt thinking 200 - I was thinking last ball, have to capitalise and hit a six. So, that was going on through my mind. I would say I got a bit lucky in the last over, when CV Milinds catch got dropped, and I got to go on strike for those 14 runs. If that catch had been taken, maybe that 200 wouldn't have happened. So, that's something I think about to this day. Like, what if that catch was taken, and then maybe I wouldn't have hit 200. That's what it's like - some things just happen. That was sort of a day, it just happened, and I would say it took me some time to process that I hit that 200 because when I went into the game, I wasn't thinking I'm going to score a 200. I was just thinking I was going to play 50 overs and see what happens. I think that's like the first time I ever played all 50 overs. So, the main ultimate goal that day was to play 50 overs, and I achieved that goal, and the 200 was a by-product, I would say. If that double hundred built his reputation, it was a Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy takedown of Shardul Thakur - three fours and two sixes in a single over - that went viral and directly led to Raos entry into the IPL 2026 season for Rajasthan Royals. I feel for me, at least personally, that knock was a turning point in my career to get into IPL, and then after getting into IPL, the double hundred happened, and then this TGT20. So, that thing I keep remembering almost every day - like because of that one over, I think I got selected, and then now I'm here and very grateful for that. In the TGT20 fixture between Warriors and Falcons, Rao admits to being stunned watching India T20I vice-captain Tilak Varma single-handedly complete a chase of 260. Such was its effect that a shell-shocked Rao could only say well played, incredible knock to Varma. Maybe that's the reason he's playing for India. He finishes games like this - even in the Asia Cup final - that knock also against Pakistan in the final, he's the only one who took on the whole chase that time. That's what I would say is the difference between an Indian player and a domestic player, and an upcoming player. Like I had the opportunity to do that yesterday, and I should have done it, and I couldn't. So, that's a learning for me - that I have to become better and try to chase scores like that and take that pressure which Tilak felt on that 260 day. I don't think he took any risk. He was just hitting the balls that were there, and what I felt about myself yesterday was that I was trying to hit every ball. Maybe I could have slowed it down a bit and maybe picked my balls, and then maybe I would have won the game yesterday because it was very chaseable, I felt. So, that's a big learning, and I have a long career ahead, hopefully, and I will try to do those things in the future. Ironically, it was Varmas guidance during Raos struggles in October 2025, when the former was in Australia for the T20I series, that helped him overcome the lean patch. I was just struggling a lot. So, I just wanted another perspective because I had my coach, obviously, but still I wanted another perspective, like how people get through that part where they're struggling and what they do. So, I just had a chat with him, and he told me to just stick to the basics, don't try too much. Maybe you're putting too much pressure on yourself and then trying too much and not enjoying yourself. So, it's like maybe enjoy yourself more and then try to stick to basics and don't think too much about the result. So, that's what he told me. During his time with Rajasthan Royals in IPL 2026, Rao spoke warmly of the reassurance he received from head coach & director of cricket Kumar Sangakkara, assistant coach Vikram Rathour, and performance coach Sid Lahiri, who repeatedly told him he wasn't in the squad merely to make up the numbers, even when game situations meant he didn't get a chance to play. That gave me a lot of confidence that I'm not here just because they had to fill up the squad, and I'm here for a reason. I learned a lot of things in batting, also. I improved a lot skill-wise, mindset-wise, and in how people approach in T20 opening or in the middle order. Being at RR also led Rao to an unexpected discovery - that he could bat in the middle order. In the practice game, I scored around 40 off 20 balls. So, that's when they told me that I can play in the middle order as well. That's when I realised maybe I have another side of me, and I started practicing for it in the nets as well. They were making me practice batting in the middle overs in the practice, and I tried and learned new shots. That's how I improved as a player as well, and that helped me. Those shots have helped me now in TG20 to make my batting better. I felt easier after playing over there in the practice sessions and against all those bowlers. For now, though, a middle-order role with Warangal Warriors remains conditional - both his head coach, Bavanaka Sandeep, and Rao agree it is something to explore only once the team has secured a top-four finish. In the leagues first-ever season, Rao was effusive in its praise. The amount of reach it has -the social media work and then crowd coming to the matches, it literally feels like an IPL match. It's a really good platform, and in the next one to two years, it's going to be the biggest league in India. That's what I feel, and hopefully, that happens, and it continues for as many years as it can. This is a great platform for youngsters like me, even the upcoming youngsters from the under-19, because all the IPL scouts will be watching. This is a great platform and not even IPL scouts, the whole of India will be watching, and I feel its huge and bigger than the other leagues, and I think in the first season only, we have a lot of audience and everything, and in the upcoming season, it's going to become bigger. So, it's a really good platform for all of us Hyderabad players. It's a really good platform, and in the next one to two years, it's going to be the biggest league in India. That's what I feel, and hopefully, that happens, and it continues for as many years as it can. This is a great platform for youngsters like me, even the upcoming youngsters from the under-19, because all the IPL scouts will be watching. Also Read: Live Cricket Score If the passport (arrival) had been delayed, I wouldn't be here right now. So, I don't know. I just have no words for it, like how it happened - it just happened. So, no words for it and exactly, leaves you speechless. For a player like Rao whos still figuring out which parts of his game to trust and which to rein in, growth has come fast, and it is, by his own admission, a great deal to process. Article Source: IANS

Jangoo hundred, Chase fifty strengthen West Indies' position

Sri Lanka were barely able to make a dent on the third morning in North Sound

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Rohan Patil Steers Bengaluru Blasters To 7-wkt Win Over Shivamogga Yodhas

Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20: Bengaluru Blasters scored a thrilling seven-wicket victory over Shivomogga Yodhas in the Maharaja Trophy KSCA T20 tournament on Thursday as the event moved its base from Mysuru to Huballi. Chasing a challenging 174, the Blasters cruised along comfortably before Praveen Dubey's 15-ball 39 (3x4, 3x5) and captain Shubhang Hedge (11 not out, 12 balls) stitched together a decisive 24-ball 60-run partnership for the unbroken fourth wicket to seal their fourth victory and consolidate their position at the top with eight points. Blasters opener Rohan Patil laid the foundation for a comfortable chase, slamming a 46-ball 62 (5x4, 2x6), adding 65 runs in 7.3 overs for the opening wicket with Bhuvan Mohan Raju (29, 23 balls, 3x4, 1x6). Patil was in an aggressive mood and punished anything bowled short or wide, and in the company of his vice-captain Krishnan Shrijith, added 54 runs off 40 balls for the third wicket after Raju departed. Patil did the bulk of the scoring, contributing 30 of those runs as Shrijith found timing the ball difficult. But once Patil fell at 119 in the 14th over, and Shrijith followed four runs later, the Yodhas found themselves back in the reckoning. However, Dubey and Hegde kept their cool, and with the target getting closer and closer, they played with composure and eventually saw their team home with an over to spare. For the Yodhas, Naveen MG, Yashovardhan Parantap, and Shreesha Achar claimed a wicket each. Earlier, Luvnith Sisodia (51, 32 balls, 6x4, 2x6) scored his third half-century and second in succession in the tournament to guide the Yodhas to 173 for six. K V Aneesh (29, 24 balls, 4 fours) and captain Smaran Ravichandran (36*, 27 balls, 3x4) were the other main contributors. Smaran still held the innings together with two key partnerships after the cheap dismissals of Harshil Dharmani (1) and Yashovardhan Parantap (0) off successive deliveries. First, a 16-ball 20 with Tushar Singh (17, 13 balls, 2x4, 1x6) and, more crucially, a 20-ball 33 for the unbroken seventh wicket partnership with Bheem Rao Navale (19, 12 balls, 2x4) boosted the total. The Yodhas clearly fell short by at least 20 runs despite the late burst, and that in the end proved decisive. For the Blasters, Rohan Raju claimed three wickets for 21 runs. With this third defeat from five matches, the Yodhas stay on four points and in fourth position. The Yodhas clearly fell short by at least 20 runs despite the late burst, and that in the end proved decisive. For the Blasters, Rohan Raju claimed three wickets for 21 runs. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shivamogga Yodhas 173/6 in 20 overs (Luvnith Sisodia 51, K.V. Aneesh 29, Smaran Ravichandran 36 not out; Rohan Raju 3-21) lost to Bengaluru Blasters 177/3 in 19 overs (Rohan Patil 62, Praveen Dubey 39 not out, Bhuvan Mohan Raju 29) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS

Womens T20 WC: India Face Defining Test Against Australia With Semi-final Berth On Line (preview)

T20 World Cup: The race for semifinal spots in the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 reaches a defining moment on Sunday as India lock horns with giants Australia in the final Group 1 fixture at Lord's in London. For Harmanpreet Kaur's side, the qualification equation is simple -- defeat the tournament favourites, and a place in the last four will almost certainly be secured. Anything less would leave India anxiously following the outcome of the earlier Bangladesh-South Africa clash. India have put themselves in contention through a strong recovery after their opening setback against South Africa. Consecutive victories over Pakistan, the Netherlands, and Bangladesh have lifted the world No. 3 side to six points, while a healthy net run rate of +2.268 gives them an additional cushion should qualification scenarios become complicated. Australia, however, remain the benchmark of the competition. Four commanding wins from four matches have virtually guaranteed the six-time champions a semi-final berth, with an exceptional net run rate of +4.724 placing them comfortably atop Group 1. While an extraordinary collapse combined with a massive South Africa victory could theoretically affect their standing, the reigning powerhouse remains firmly in control of its own destiny. One of Australia's greatest strengths has been the absence of over-reliance on individual brilliance. Despite dominating every opponent so far, none of their players currently feature among the tournament's top 10 run-scorers or wicket-takers. Instead, different match-winners have emerged each game, underlining the depth that has made Australia the dominant force in women's cricket over the past decade. Veteran all-rounder Ellyse Perry has led their batting effort with 127 runs, while left-arm spinner Sophie Molineux has been the side's most successful bowler with six wickets. India, in contrast, have been driven by standout performances from key individuals. Vice-captain Smriti Mandhana has once again provided stability at the top of the order, accumulating 167 runs across four innings and consistently laying the platform for the middle order. With the ball, left-arm spinner Shree Charani has enjoyed a breakthrough tournament, claiming a competition-leading 12 wickets to emerge as India's biggest weapon through the middle overs. Sunday's contest also represents a historic occasion for India, who will play their first-ever women's T20 International at Lord's. Australia have previous experience at the iconic venue but suffered defeat against England in their only women's T20I appearance there in 2023, a result India will hope offers encouragement rather than coincidence. History, though, overwhelmingly favours Australia. The two sides have met 37 times in women's T20 Internationals, with Australia winning 27 contests compared to India's nine victories, while one match ended in a tie. Their dominance extends to the Women's T20 World Cup as well, where Australia hold a commanding 5-1 advantage, including victories in both the 2020 final and the 2023 semi-final. India's lone World Cup triumph over Australia came during the 2018 group stage in the West Indies, when Smriti Mandhana produced a memorable innings of 83 to guide her side to victory. More recently, however, the rivalry has become considerably more balanced. India knocked Australia out in the semi-finals of the 2025 Women's ODI World Cup before following it up with a T20I series victory on Australian soil earlier this yearresults that have reinforced the belief that Harmanpreet Kaur's side can overcome the world's No. 1-ranked team when it matters. Australia will still start as favourites given their flawless campaign and enviable squad depth, but India enter the contest carrying momentum, confidence, and a realistic opportunity to script another landmark victory. With a semi-final place within touching distance and Lord's providing the backdrop, the stage is set for one of the tournament's biggest encounters. When: Sunday, June 28, 7:00 PM IST Where: Lords Cricket Ground, London Where to watch: The West Indies vs Ireland clash will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and live-streamed on JioStar. Squads: Where to watch: The West Indies vs Ireland clash will be broadcast on Star Sports Network and live-streamed on JioStar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Australia: Sophie Molineux (c), Nicola Carey, Ash Gardner, Kim Garth, Lucy Hamilton, Grace Harris, Alana King, Phoebe Litchfield, Tahlia McGrath, Beth Mooney (wk), Ellyse Perry, Megan Schutt, Annabel Sutherland, Georgia Voll, Georgia Wareham Article Source: IANS

Women's T20 WC: Maguire, Murray Lead Disciplined Ireland Effort As West Indies Post 128/7

T20 World Cup: Ireland produced a disciplined bowling performance, striking at regular intervals to restrict West Indies to 128/7 in 20 overs in their final Group Stage match of the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 at the County Ground in Bristol on Saturday. After electing to bowl first, Ireland made an early breakthrough as Aimee Maguire dismissed opener Qiana Joseph for 8. The left-handed batter attempted an attacking shot but failed to clear the infield, departing after hitting one boundary. West Indies skipper Hayley Matthews responded positively, driving two elegant boundaries in the following over to settle the innings. However, Ireland continued to chip away as Arlene Kelly recovered well after an expensive start to remove Shemaine Campbell, leaving the Caribbean side under pressure inside the Power-play. With two early wickets down, Matthews and the experienced Stafanie Taylor looked to rebuild cautiously. The pair relied mainly on singles and doubles against a disciplined Irish attack, managing only 40 runs in the first six overs. Matthews briefly looked to accelerate with a boundary in the eighth over but failed to convert her start. She was caught at square leg by Rebecca Stokell off Cara Murray for 22 from 25 deliveries, an innings that included three fours. Taylor and Deandra Dottin then attempted to revive the innings but found boundaries difficult to come by as Ireland's spinners maintained tight lines and lengths. At the halfway stage, the West Indies had reached only 54/3. The fourth-wicket partnership began to gather momentum before Ireland struck again. Aimee Maguire trapped Taylor in front after a scratchy 16 off 26 balls, further denting West Indies' hopes of posting a competitive total. Chinelle Henry walked in with positive intent and immediately put pressure back on the bowlers, striking a boundary off just her third delivery. While Henry looked for scoring opportunities, Dottin rotated the strike to keep the scoreboard moving. Just as the pair threatened to accelerate, Jane Maguire produced another crucial breakthrough by dismissing Dottin for 21 off 28 balls, with Orla Prendergast completing a comfortable catch. Dottin's knock featured just one boundary. Ireland tightened their grip further in the 17th over when Cara Murray dismissed Jahzara Claxton, reducing West Indies to 101/6 with only three overs remaining. Henry continued to fight till the end, finding the boundary three times during her unbeaten 27 off 21 deliveries to ensure West Indies crossed the 125-run mark. Ashmini Munisar also chipped in with useful late runs as the Caribbean side closed on 128/7. Aimee Maguire and Cara Murray starred with the ball for Ireland, claiming two wickets each, while Arlene Kelly and Jane Maguire picked up one apiece in an impressive all-round bowling display. Henry continued to fight till the end, finding the boundary three times during her unbeaten 27 off 21 deliveries to ensure West Indies crossed the 125-run mark. Ashmini Munisar also chipped in with useful late runs as the Caribbean side closed on 128/7. Also Read: Live Cricket Score West Indies 128/7 in 20 overs (Chinelle Henry 27*, Hayley Matthews 22, Deandra Dottin 21; Cara Murray 2-13, Aimee Maguire 2-22) against Ireland. Article Source: IANS

Ahire Shines As Dominant India U19 Women Thrash Sri Lanka U19, Clinch 3-0 Series Sweep

BCCI Apex Member Sudha Shah: Skipper Bhavika Ahire led from the front with a fine half-century as India womens U19 completed a clinical 3-0 T20I series sweep over Sri Lanka U19 with a comfortable seven-wicket victory in the third and final game at the MA Chidambaram Stadium on Saturday. Chasing a modest 117, India U19 cruised home in 18.4 overs, courtesy a captains knock from Bhavika (50) and an unbeaten 27 by Ira Jadhav. For her consistent performances in the series, Bhavika was also rightfully adjudged the Player of the Series. Opting to bat first, Sri Lanka struggled to find any momentum against a disciplined Indian bowling attack and were restricted to a below-par 116/7 in their 20 overs. Barring Nethmi Upekshas laborious, unbeaten 51 off 60 deliveries, Sri Lanka never got going. India's bowling unit kept the pressure on throughout the innings. For India, Anaadi Tagde and Kashvi Kandikuppa were the standout bowlers with two scalps each. In reply, India got off to a steady start despite losing wicketkeeper-batter Deeksha Katragadda (9) to a run-out. Opener Ishwari Awasare provided early impetus with a brisk 16-ball 21, smashing two boundaries and a six, before falling to Danodya Sewmini. Bhavika then took complete control of the chase alongside Ira to put India on the path to victory before being caught by opposition skipper Chamodi Praboda off Aseni Thalagunes bowling. Ira and Purva Siwach then wrapped up the chase to trigger joyous celebrations in the Indian dugout. As per the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA), the series drew enthusiastic crowds across all three games on June 22, 24, and 27, which in turn provided a highly encouraging atmosphere for the next generation of international women cricketers. At the post-match presentation, TNCA Honorary Secretary U. Bhagwandas Rao, alongside Treasurer R. Rangarajan and former Indian women's cricketer and BCCI Apex Member Sudha Shah, handed over the champion's trophy to the triumphant Indian squad. As per the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA), the series drew enthusiastic crowds across all three games on June 22, 24, and 27, which in turn provided a highly encouraging atmosphere for the next generation of international women cricketers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Sri Lanka U19 116/7 in 20 overs (Nethmi Upeksha 51 not out, Sanjana Kavindi 17; Kashvi Kandikuppa 2-16, Anaadi Tagde 2-24) lost to India U19 120/3 in 18.4 overs (Bhavika Ahire 50, Ira Jadhav 27 not out; Aseni Thalagune 1-22) by seven wickets Article Source: IANS

Auqib Nabis Four-wicket Haul Hands India A Crucial 122-run Lead Against Sri Lanka A

Pacer Auqib Nabi Dar: Pacer Auqib Nabi Dar spearheaded India As bowling charge with a four-wicket haul as the visitors secured a commanding 122-run first-innings advantage against Sri Lanka A on day three of the first four-day game here on Saturday. Despite fifties from Nuwanidu Fernando (84), captain Sahan Arachchige (72), and Ashen Bandara (70), Sri Lanka A eventually made 330 in response to India A's mammoth first-innings total of 452/6 declared. By the time stumps arrived, India A extended their overall lead to 170 runs, reaching 48 for no loss in their second essay. Sai Sudharsan, who smashed a century in the first innings as an opener, had a minor setback and retired hurt on seven. However, Devdutt Padikkal (20 not out) and Ayush Pandey (20 not out) negotiated the remaining overs flawlessly to keep the visitors in absolute control. Resuming the day from an overnight score of 113/2, Sri Lanka A enjoyed a productive morning session. Nuwanidu and Bandara frustrated the Indian bowling attack with a 105-run partnership for the third wicket. Nuwanidu looked well-poised for a century before seamer Yash Thakur dismissed him 16 runs short of the three-figure mark. Skipper Arachchige then joined Bandara to further steady the ship. Arachchige took an aggressive approach against the Indian spinners, dispatching Saransh Jain over the ropes to take the hosts to a comfortable 204 for 3 at the lunch break. The afternoon session witnessed a brief weather interruption, but the hosts' batters maintained their composure. Arachchige brought up his half-century in style with a brace of sixes off Harsh Dubey, while a boundary from Bandara off Thakur brought up their 117-run alliance. India A eventually fought back through their spinners. Off-spinner Jain broke the threatening partnership by removing Bandara, with Padikkal taking a sharp catch. Left-arm spinner Dubey soon sent back the dangerous Arachchige, courtesy another catch by Padikkal. A brief counter-attack by Ravindu Fernando and Anjala Bandara momentarily pushed the hosts past the 300-run mark. However, Nabi broke the lower-order resistance by striking in consecutive overs just before the tea interval, leaving Sri Lanka A reeling at 315/7. Post-tea, Dubey quickly removed Kavindu Pathiratne. Although Chamika Gunasekara and Dilum Sudeera delayed the inevitable by lingering for nearly ten overs, Nabi took out the former and Dulaj Samudhita on back-to-back deliveries to finish with impressive figures of 4-58, which augurs well ahead of Indias two-game Test tour of Sri Lanka in August. Brief scores: Post-tea, Dubey quickly removed Kavindu Pathiratne. Although Chamika Gunasekara and Dilum Sudeera delayed the inevitable by lingering for nearly ten overs, Nabi took out the former and Dulaj Samudhita on back-to-back deliveries to finish with impressive figures of 4-58, which augurs well ahead of Indias two-game Test tour of Sri Lanka in August. Also Read: Live Cricket Score --IANS Article Source: IANS

T20 World Cup: Scotland miss out as eight teams secure automatic spots for 2028

Pakistan qualified as a result of being the tournament hosts