Cricket

Joe Root Says New Balls Behind Batsmen's Struggles In England

Joe Root believes a new batch of Dukes balls are the reason why there have been few big scores in Test cricket in England this season. Neither England nor Pakistan have managed an individual century in the first two Tests of an ongoing three-match series, where the hosts have established an unbeatable 2-0 lead. Pakistan have yet to pass 200 as a team in four innings so far. There have only been two totals above 400 all summer -- the first by New Zealand in their series-deciding win over England at Trent Bridge and the second by England in their innings and 103-run thrashing of Pakistan in the first Test at Headingley. Bowlers have largely dominated with recalled England seamer Ollie Robinson taking 23 wickets in three Tests at a staggeringly low average of 8.34 following eight more scalps in a series-clinching 194-run win over Pakistan at Lord's. I think the balls have been very different this year, said England captain Root after watching his pacemen overpower Pakistan on Sunday to wrap up a convincing victory at Lord's. I think there's a different lacquer to them. I've not got evidence on that, I probably need to ask Dukes, but I think there's a lacquer on the seam. They don't want them to go out of shape and get them changed. Root, England's all-time leading run-scorer in Test cricket, managed just 28 runs in two innings at Lord's and has now been lbw nine times in his past seven matches. He believes the balls are also helping make pitches more bowler-friendly. They seem a lot firmer and probably if they're dinting the wickets then it's going to seam off the dints, it's going to make it move more. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He added: Sometimes you do come across summers where you know it is the perfect storm. You get overcast conditions, you get a bit of rain to contend with, the balls are slightly different and it's hard. But that's part of the challenge of Test cricket.

Sher-E-Punjab T20: Abhishek Promises More Fireworks Will Come From Amritsar Soormas

Punjab T20 League: Amritsar Soormas captain Abhishek Sharma has promised that his side will maintain their aggressive, entertaining brand of cricket despite opening their 2026 Sher-E-Punjab T20 League campaign with a dramatic five-wicket defeat to Mohali Kings. The Soormas produced a blistering batting display at Mohali on Sunday, posting 258 after Abhishek smashed a rapid 77 off 26 deliveries. However, Mohali Kings overhauled the massive target with an extraordinary run-chase, completing it with three balls to spare. Despite the opening-day setback, Abhishek insisted that the performance demonstrated the high-octane batting intent he expects from his squad throughout the tournament. I said to the boys and the coaches, I think this was the start I wanted. Not as a captain, but as a batting unit. Because if you see, 260, on any ground, any pitch, it's always a par score, Abhishek said in a statement on Monday. Head coach Sandeep Sawal echoed his skipper's sentiments, acknowledging that although the team fell slightly short of an unassailable total, the squad would swiftly correct their tactical errors. In the first innings, we had at least 25 runs short. We couldn't finish the way we should have, but it was still a good target. We made a few mistakes which we will cover in the next match and discuss, he said. Head coach Sandeep Sawal echoed his skipper's sentiments, acknowledging that although the team fell slightly short of an unassailable total, the squad would swiftly correct their tactical errors. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Speaking directly to the team's fanbase, Abhishek urged supporters to stay behind the team as they aim to turn explosive performances into victories in their upcoming fixtures. All the Ambarsaras, keep it tight. Those who are Surma's fans. We'll keep getting this kind of entertainment. We'll convert the loss into a win next time. So, support us. This team will entertain you. Article Source: IANS

Rule changes to be tested in Thimmappaiah Memorial tournament to make it result-oriented

Pandya, Reddy Likely For Afghanistan T20s; Bumrah's Return Delayed

All-rounders Hardik Pandya, Washington Sundar, and Nitish Kumar Reddy are expected to recover from their respective injuries and be available for selection for India's upcoming three-match T20I series against Afghanistan, providing a significant boost to the squad.

DPL: Thrilled With How Our Youngsters Stepped Up; Tejasvi Led The Side Exceptionally Well, Says Dabas

South Delhi Superstarz: Batting all-rounder Ankit Dabas said he was thrilled to see youngsters step up, crediting team unity and skipper Tejasvi Dahiya's exceptional leadership for South Delhi Superstarz's 2026 Delhi Premier League (DPL) title win, a seven-wicket victory over Central Delhi Kings in the title clash. Chasing a target of 183 at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, South Delhi completed the chase in 18.2 overs. Anmol Sharma laid the platform with a fluent 64 off 42 balls before Dabas smashed an unbeaten 61 off 33 balls. Dahiya added a rapid 33 off 18 balls before Ekansh Dobal sealed the championship win with a six. When I went in to bat, my priority was assessing what the team required. If an early wicket falls, my job is to provide stability and keep one end secure. But once I realised how good the pitch was and saw scoring opportunities, I shifted gears and played my shots. I was confident we could pull off the win, said Dabas, who took the Player of the Match award, at the conclusion of the tournament. He also noted that Dahiyas time with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2026 influenced his decision-making in high-pressure moments. Tejasvi led the side exceptionally well. His bowling rotations and tactical changes at key moments were spot on. Having played in the IPL last year, he brought invaluable experience and maturity into our dressing room. Even when conditions turned tricky and the ball started spinning, he finished the game in a flash. He is truly one of the best in this league. He also noted that Dahiyas time with the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) in IPL 2026 influenced his decision-making in high-pressure moments. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories State leagues are creating healthy competition in Indian cricket. They all feed into the same national pathway. People often call these state leagues the second IPL, which shows their growing stature and importance. Winning a tournament like this requires a collective team effort; different players put their hands up in different games. Article Source: IANS

Duleep Trophy: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Dazzles, Mukesh Strikes Twice As East Zone Keep Central To 45/3

The Madhya Pradesh: East Zone vice-captain Vaibhav Sooryavanshi dazzled with a stroke-filled 92, helping his side reach parity with defending champions Central Zone before Mukesh Kumar struck twice to end Day 2 on a high for East on Monday. With eyes glued on Sooryavanshi in his red-ball Test, the 15-year-old starred with a record-breaking 92 off 81 balls, turning heads with seven sixes and as many fours at the BCCI Centre of Excellence Ground 1. During his stroke-filled knock, the Bihar batter became the youngest-ever player to score a half-century in the Duleep Trophy. At 15 years and 157 days, Sooryavanshi broke the 57-year-old record of Laxman Singh, who was 16 years and 23 days old when he smashed a fifty in the red-ball tournament in 1969. He could well have become the youngest centurion in the Duleep Trophy had he not holed out to deep midwicket off Harsh Dubey. While Sooryavanshi put the bowlers to the sword, his senior opening partner Abhimanyu Easwaran was content to hold the end up, scoring 69 off 106 balls as the two put on 161 for the opening wicket. Meanwhile, Sooryavanshi's dismissal triggered a collapse of the Ishan Kishan-led East side as Dubey and seamers Aryan Pandey and Yash Thakur ripped through the line-up. Dubey removed two in two, dismissing Kumar Kushagra on the next ball before Aryan took the baton. The Madhya Pradesh seamer bowled brilliantly after lunch, taking three wickets in 15 minutes. This included the scalps of Easwaran, Virat Singh and Sudip Gharami. Yash also impressed with three wickets of his own, as East managed to score 266 in the first innings, the same total Central made on Day 1. Meanwhile, Sooryavanshi's dismissal triggered a collapse of the Ishan Kishan-led East side as Dubey and seamers Aryan Pandey and Yash Thakur ripped through the line-up. Dubey removed two in two, dismissing Kumar Kushagra on the next ball before Aryan took the baton. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Mukesh then removed the big wicket of captain Rajat Patidar, dismissing him on a short ball yet again, after a similar chopped-on dismissal in the first innings, as Central Zone went to the stumps on Day 2 at 45/3 with a lead of 45 in the second innings. Article Source: IANS

India Batter Mayank Agarwal Signs Four-game County Championship Deal With Durham

County Championship Division Two: India opener Mayank Agarwal has signed a four-game contract with Durham for the final phase of the ongoing County Championship Division Two season, the English county club announced on Monday. Agarwal, 35, joins head coach Ryan Campbell's squad to bolster their promotion push in Division Two, starting with their upcoming fixture against Northamptonshire at the cinch County Ground. Agarwal replaces South Africa batter David Bedingham, who has returned home to prepare for the Proteas mens international red-ball summer at home. We are delighted to have Mayank joining us for our County Championship run in. With David Bedingham returning to South Africa ahead of their international red ball summer it was important we acted by recruiting a high-class international cricketer for the remainder of the season, Campbell said in a statement released by the club. Mayank has featured in 21 Tests for India, scoring 1488 runs, with the highlight being four centuries, including a career-best score of 243 against Bangladesh in Indore in 2019. Hes also played five ODIs, scoring 86 runs. Mayank is a hugely talented batter who has a superb first-class record, we look forward to him contributing to Durham as we look to secure our return to Division One of the County Championship, added Campbell. Agarwal also has experience of playing in English conditions, having represented Yorkshire during the closing stages of the 2025 County Championship season. In that phase, Agarwal scored 201 runs for Yorkshire, with the highlight being a match-winning 175 against Durham in his final innings. Beyond his red-ball achievements, where he's closing in on 9,000 first-class career runs, including 21 hundreds, the Bengaluru-born Agarwal has scored over 5,000 runs in T20 cricket while representing six Indian Premier League franchises. Agarwal also has experience of playing in English conditions, having represented Yorkshire during the closing stages of the 2025 County Championship season. In that phase, Agarwal scored 201 runs for Yorkshire, with the highlight being a match-winning 175 against Durham in his final innings. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Agarwal joins several Indian players currently plying their trade in the English domestic season. Left-arm spinner Manav Suthar, who took 16 wickets on the Test tour of Sri Lanka, is rejoining Warwickshire, while left-arm wrist spinner Kuldeep Yadav will play for Yorkshire. Surrey has India leg-spinner Rahul Chahar and uncapped batting all-rounder Mahipal Lomror in their squad and is expected to have seam-bowling all-rounder Auqib Nabi as well. Article Source: IANS

Unchanged Namibia bowl; Zimbabwe bring in Masakadza for Cremer

This is the 17th meeting between the two closely matched sides, with Namibia in a position of slight advantage

Trescothick Sees Shades Of 2005 Ashes Pace Quartet In Current England Attack After Lords Win

Marcus Trescothick: England interim head coach Marcus Trescothick has said he sees similarities between his current pace attack and the famed four-man seam quartet that secured the iconic 2005 Ashes victory over Australia on home soil. Dominant victories over Pakistan at Headingley and Lord's have prompted observers to draw parallels between the current lineup and the 2005 attack. Ollie Robinson has stepped into Matthew Hoggard's swing-bowling role, Jofra Archer provides the express pace of Steve Harmison, while Josh Tongue and Gus Atkinson replicate the aggressive middle-overs impact of Andrew Flintoff and Simon Jones. Trescothick, who played as an opening batter in the epic 2005 series win, acknowledged the similarities after England's recent performances. I think we've got a good contrast in what we're trying to do at the moment. What we do have is three guys bowling at 92 miles an hour, which is really nice to have in your armoury, and to have the potency in what you're trying to do. The more that they play together and the more experience that everyone gets together, then it sort of fits into place. We do have some real skill, and you look back to '05 and the sort of comparisons of Harmy, Fred, Simon and Hoggy. But I'm enjoying the fact that we've got four who are match-fit at the moment and we've a few behind it that we're starting to get ready, he told reporters at the conclusion of the game. England face an extensive Test schedule over the next year, including tours of South Africa and Bangladesh, before hosting Australia for the Ashes. I don't want to get too far ahead on it because there's a lot of cricket to be played beforehand. But I think we're building an attack in four people that we've had here in this game, and a few guys backing it up, with pace and skill around it. And I think combining the two together and the more Test matches they all gain together, the better opportunity we've got when you go to more challenging conditions, and away from home in particular. So no doubt there'll be five, six or seven bowlers going to South Africa, and it'll be the same for next summer when we come back here for the Ashes. And they'll be in a much better position than what they've been for the last couple of years, added Trescothick. Despite holding an unassailable 2-0 lead over Pakistan, Trescothick insisted that England will not rotate players merely to experiment ahead of upcoming tours. Well, first and foremost I want to win the series 3-0, and I think if you're going to do that, you want to play the most consistent team possible. So no doubt there'll be five, six or seven bowlers going to South Africa, and it'll be the same for next summer when we come back here for the Ashes. And they'll be in a much better position than what they've been for the last couple of years, added Trescothick. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We want to go there and win the series 3-0, so that is what exactly what I'll be telling the players this evening, and when we're prepping for next week, is (to keep) the hunger and desire to keep driving forward, and keep doing well even when you've had success, he concluded. Article Source: IANS

Pakistan's Performance A Concern For Everyone: Star Makes Big Admission

Once an Asian side that challenged all opponents away from home, Pakistan dominated the English conditions, especially in the late 1980s and the 1990s.

Mayank Agarwal joins Durham for remainder of County Championship

Former India Test batter heads to Chester-le-Street as replacement for David Bedingham

10 losses in 11 away Tests: Pakistan cricket in a shambles

Pakistan pacer Mohammad Abbas expressed deep concern over the team's persistent issues, including poor fielding and an inexperienced pace attack, following their heavy 194-run defeat to England at Lord's, marking their 10th loss in 11 away Tests.

BCB Chief Drops Big Update On India's Long-Pending White-Ball Tour Of Bangladesh

BCB has expressed optimism that India will tour Bangladesh for a six-match white-ball series during the 2026-27 season.

Matter Of Great Pride: Bihar Cricket Association Lauds Sooryavanshi's Historic Duleep Trophy Fifty

BCA President Harsh Vardhan: Bihar Cricket Association officials congratulated young batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for becoming the youngest player to score a half-century in Duleep Trophy history during East Zones ongoing semi-final against Central Zone in Bengaluru. At the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) Ground in Bengaluru, Sooryavanshi, who became the youngest debutant for India in international cricket via the T20I series in England in July, reached his milestone fifty off 42 deliveries before eventually ending up making a sparkling 92 off 81 balls, an innings featuring seven fours and seven sixes. In doing so, he surpassed a 57-year-old mark set in 1969 by Laxman Singh, who scored a fifty at 16 years and 23 days. On behalf of the Bihar Cricket Association, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on this historic achievement. Breaking a 57-year-old record in the Duleep Trophy at such a young age is an extremely proud moment for Bihar cricket. Vaibhav has once again proved through his talent, confidence and hard work that he is a star for the future. We are confident that he will go on to achieve many more milestones in the years to come, BCA President Harsh Vardhan said in a statement on Monday. The teenager's record-breaking knock laid the foundation for a 161-run opening partnership with Abhimanyu Easwaran, thus placing East Zone in complete control of the match after they previously bowled out Central Zone for 266. Vaibhav has once again proved through his talent, confidence and hard work that he is a star for the future. We are confident that he will go on to achieve many more milestones in the years to come, BCA President Harsh Vardhan said in a statement on Monday. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories His magnificent innings of 92 runs showcased his aggressive batting and tremendous confidence. On behalf of the Bihar Cricket Association, we extend our best wishes to him and pray for a bright future. We are confident that Vaibhav will continue to bring greater glory to Bihar and the country in the years ahead, he added. Article Source: IANS

Trescothick sees parallels with 2005 attack as England seamers gel

Interim coach plans to roll out same foursome at Edgbaston in bid to be ruthless against Pakistan

Womens Asia Cup: 'Atmosphere Of Happiness,' Says Shafali After Indias Victory Over Thailand

Dubai International Cricket Stadium: Explosive opener Shafali Verma said there is a great atmosphere of happiness within the squad after India got their 2026 Womens Asia Cup campaign off to a winning start with a comfortable 94-run victory over Thailand at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. Shafali top-scored with a 36-ball 64 as India posted 159/9, despite going from 91/1 to 137/9 in a span of 50 deliveries. Nandni and veteran off-spin bowling all-rounder Deepti Sharma took three wickets each as India bowled out Thailand for 65 in 16.1 overs. Of course, I think, giving my best for the team, obviously, it feels very good. Along with that, we know that within the team, there is a greater atmosphere of happiness. Just talking about the game, we all know the conditions, we all know what we have to do, Verma said in a video posted on BCCIs social media accounts on Monday. She also had some words of admiration for Deepti, who became the third womens player to play 150 T20Is. I am so happy that all the players did what they had to do -- they all made an effort, and we are so happy about the win. Talking about Deepti, first of all, congratulations to her for the 150th game, and I think there are a lot more games coming for her. I am pretty sure she is always someone who is working hard every day. Shafali further praised Nandni for her spell, but felt more improvements can be made when they take on Hong Kong China on Thursday. Talking about Nandni, the way she is bowling, she really works hard; we all really work hard, and it is just praising what she is bowling, and I am so happy the way she is doing her thing. We will have to get used to the conditions as a batting unit. Talking about our bowling unit, they bowled really well, and there were things where we have to improve. I am pretty sure our bowling coach will fill those areas. Just talking about the Thailand team, the way they improved, I am so happy that women's cricket is improving. They are so cute, and we are just happy to play with them. Shafali further praised Nandni for her spell, but felt more improvements can be made when they take on Hong Kong China on Thursday. Talking about Nandni, the way she is bowling, she really works hard; we all really work hard, and it is just praising what she is bowling, and I am so happy the way she is doing her thing. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Playing with such consistency and performing in every match, it is a very big thing (for Deepti), and she is doing it. It feels very good; it is my first Asia Cup game, and we won, so it feels even better. Bowling-wise, personally, I was feeling good, but it was also difficult because there was a lot of energy. But the wicket was good for the spinners as well. Article Source: IANS

WTC updated points table after England register dominant win over Pakistan in London to clinch series

England and Pakistan took on each other in the second Test of the ongoing series between the two. The teams met at Lords Cricket Ground in London for the clash, and it was England who...

Virat Kohli's New Tattoo Goes Viral; 5 Sessions In, Work Still Underway

Former India captain Virat Kohli has added another tattoo to his collection ahead of the ODI series against the West Indies next month.

'Not backing out': Sri Lanka battles to save Champions Trophy

Sri Lanka's interim cricket board is committed to fundamental reforms to ensure the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy in 2027 remains in the country. This comes amidst speculation that the ICC might relocate the event due to government interference in the sport's administration, with the ICC having previously indicated a search for alternative venues.

'His Spot Is Almost Untenable': Ricky Ponting's Harsh Verdict On Australia Star

Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting also urged the selectors to make decisive changes ahead of October's three-match Test tour to South Africa.

I Feel Like I've Got A Good Sense Of Where I'm At With Both Ball And Bat, Says Sutherland

T20 World Cup: Star seam-bowling all-rounder Annabel Sutherland believes she has now achieved optimal balance in her T20 game, as she looks to carry her good form into Australia's upcoming domestic and international summer. Annabel, 24, was named player of the tournament during the recently concluded The Hundred womens competition, where she topped the run-scoring charts with 315 runs at an average of 63 and claimed 11 wickets for Sunrisers Leeds, who finished runners-up in the competition. Her impressive stint in England came after being a member of Australias T20 World Cup triumph at Lord's in July. I feel like I'm really enjoying my cricket. I had a really great time in the Hundred. It's an awesome tournament, so I think that helps, and then the other thing is just contributing in both phases of the game. I feel like I've got a good sense of where I'm at with both ball and bat, Annabel told reporters at the launch of Play Cricket Week in Sydney on Monday. Annabel will lead the Melbourne Stars for the second time in WBBL season 12 under new head coach Richard Pryah, before Australia embark on a home series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, the inaugural T20 Champions Trophy in February, and a multi-format tour of South Africa. Reflecting on Australia's T20 World Cup victory, Sutherland noted that back-to-back semi-final defeats in the 2024 edition and the 2025 Womens ODI World Cup prompted crucial self-reflection that ultimately reshaped the squad's approach to high-pressure matches. Annabel will lead the Melbourne Stars for the second time in WBBL season 12 under new head coach Richard Pryah, before Australia embark on a home series against Bangladesh and New Zealand, the inaugural T20 Champions Trophy in February, and a multi-format tour of South Africa. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We were so calm and composed, and credit to Sophie for the way that she drove that. T20 cricket is so unpredictable there are a lot of things outside your control. But I just think the way we handled it as a group pretty much dominated every game, which is a little bit unheard of in that format and to cap it off with a win against England at Lord's, it was pretty special, she concluded. Article Source: IANS

Labuschagne's Spot In Australian Test Team Almost Untenable, Says Ponting

Sky Sports News: Former Australia captain Ricky Ponting believes Marnus Labuschagnes position in the Test side has become almost untenable following a prolonged period of poor form. He also urged the selectors to make decisive changes ahead of October's three-match Test tour to South Africa. Labuschagne, 32, managed scores of just one, 31, and four during Australia's recent 1-1 series draw against Bangladesh at home. The number three batter has now gone 43 Test innings without registering a century, with his last triple-figure score coming against England in the Ashes at Manchester in July 2023. This has been a very dominant side for a long period of time, but I think they have been carrying a few guys through the last couple of years. I think it is inevitable that change is made going to South Africa - Labuschagne's spot in the side is almost untenable, so they have to look at someone at No 3, Ponting told Sky Sports News on Monday. He also suggested that moving opener Travis Head back down to his familiar middle-order position could open the door for fresh blood to be injected into the batting line-up, as Australia prepare for the Test series starting on October 9 in Durban. Eventually they will also want Travis Head back at No 5 rather than opening, so that could present a chance for a youngster to come in and open the batting. It won't be easy against that South Africa attack, but we have got to the point where we have to try something. I don't think we are going to get any worse or lose anything and may just unearth a really good talent as well, he added. Addressing ongoing speculation that his former teammate Mike Hussey could be appointed as England's new Test batting coach, Ponting joked that he had attempted to steer his compatriot away from taking the role under newly-appointed head coach Stephen Fleming. Eventually they will also want Travis Head back at No 5 rather than opening, so that could present a chance for a youngster to come in and open the batting. It won't be easy against that South Africa attack, but we have got to the point where we have to try something. I don't think we are going to get any worse or lose anything and may just unearth a really good talent as well, he added. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I also read a report that he might be the next head coach of Chennai Super Kings, which could rule him out of everything anyway. At the end of the day, we are all coaches and in it to do whatever we can do. He has done it before and could easily slip back into that role again. Article Source: IANS

5 Star Room Shortage Hits Asian Games Cricket: Official

The Asian Cricket Council has heard concerns over a lack of five-star hotel accommodation for players at the upcoming Asian Games in Japan, a Sri Lankan official said Monday. The men's and women's T20 cricket will be played at Japan's newly built cricket ground in Nisshin starting September 17. But reports of tents serving as dressing rooms for players, distant washroom facilities and lack of top-class accommodation for cricketers have raised eyebrows. There are some concerns with regard to the quality of accommodation being provided and also with regard to the logistics, Sri Lanka Cricket secretary Prakash Schaffter told reporters in Colombo. He said the ACC executive committee had discussed the Asian Games with some degree of detail at its recently concluded meeting in Bangkok. Member states had agreed to send representatives to examine the grounds and other logistical arrangements, but hoped the tournament would still go ahead, he said. There is a lack of available five-star rooms. Cricketers are generally provided with five-star accommodation, he said, adding that the host city did not have luxury hotels to accommodate all athletes and spectators. However, he said the ground prepared for the T20 series was suitable for play. Media reports in India said the country's cricket board was unhappy with the Asian Games' arrangements for the tournament and looking to send a second-string team. India have named a 15-member squad led by Shreyas Iyer and including teenage sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi for the Asiad. The Bangladesh Cricket Board said the member boards of the ACC are looking at the concerns regarding player facilities at the Asian Games. The cricket part of the Asian Games will be looked after by the Asian Cricket Council, BCB cricket operations manager Shahriar Nafees said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The individual boards have already discussed it at the ACC forum, and they will take a collective decision on the issue.

India Head Coach Muzumdar: 'They Are Hungry For Success'

Indian head coach Amol Muzumdar acknowledged the absence of 'clutch player' Jemimah Rodrigues due to injury for the Women's Asia Cup but emphasised the team's strong hunger for success in upcoming tournaments, including the Asia Cup and Asian Games.

Joe Root surpasses Andrew Strauss in elite list after Test series victory against Pakistan

England performed brilliantly against Pakistan in the second Test of the ongoing three-game series between the two sides. It is worth noting that after a win in the first Test, England took on Pakistan in...

Bangladesh Board Chief Tamim Iqbal Hopeful Of Staging Series Against India In Future

Bangladesh Cricket Board: Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB) President Tamim Iqbal said he remains optimistic about hosting a home white-ball series against India in the future, adding that both governing bodies are actively searching for a suitable window in their congested schedules. The proposed tour, featuring three ODIs and as many T20Is, was initially slated to be played in August-September this year. But India's upcoming T20 series against Afghanistan starting on September 13 effectively postponed their clashes against Bangladesh. That it (the series against India) won't happen hasn't been decided yet. Still, let me give a quick piece of information. Both boards are very sincere that this thing happens. Both the BCCI and the BCB, and we are looking at windows as well, to see what can be done at that time. Roughly a date, around which we are also thinking whether it can be done at this time or not. If I saw the intention was negative, then today I wouldn't even have said this word to you, 'Let's see what happens, we're hopeful.' I wouldn't have even said this word. Intentions are very positive, Tamim told popular YouTube channel 'Not Out Noman'. Relations between the two cricket boards grew strained earlier this year prior to the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup in India, from which Bangladesh ultimately withdrew, citing security concerns. That standoff was preceded by fast bowler Mustafizur Rahman being released from his IPL 2026 contract with Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR). Reflecting on the fallout, Tamim acknowledged that Bangladesh's administrative handling of the crisis was flawed and argued that political disputes should not derail major international sporting commitments. I feel that we could have negotiated the thing much better. Look, Mustafizur's issue was obviously something that the whole country was disappointed with. And I say today as well; I said that day too, it should never have happened. This was in no way the right thing to do; this should never have been done. At that time I endorsed this; I am saying it even now. But we are going to play a World Cup. Every single person in Bangladesh celebrated like anything when we first qualified for the World Cup. It may be that now every two years a T20 World Cup happens, or every four years it happens, but it is a World Cup Bangladesh is going to represent, right? So, I feel we probably could have dealt with it better. We went to a point of no return right from the beginning. If you go to a point of no return on the very first day, then that (solution) won't happen. And I feel in some cases, sports should remain as sports. At that time I endorsed this; I am saying it even now. But we are going to play a World Cup. Every single person in Bangladesh celebrated like anything when we first qualified for the World Cup. It may be that now every two years a T20 World Cup happens, or every four years it happens, but it is a World Cup Bangladesh is going to represent, right? Also Read: Special Cricket Stories I feel that in some cases, we should treat sports as sports. Unfortunately, we sometimes might not be staying within this line. We often drag sports with other aspects as well. So whenever this topic comes up, I say the same thing again: that we should have definitely played the World Cup. We should have definitely done the negotiation in a better way. And that's it; I cannot say many things even though I know them, he added. Article Source: IANS

'Need To Check Our Batting Unit': Shafali Verma After India's Collapse vs Thailand At Women's Asia Cup

India opener Shafali Verma said the team's batting unit will have to assess its shortcomings on turners despite opening with a facile 94-run victory in the Women's Asia Cup opener in Dubai.

Little Variety To Trouble Batters: Sunil Gavaskar's Blunt Take On India Debutant

Sunil Gavaskar said the player could have been nervous as it was his first game for the country.

Duleep Trophy: Sooryavanshi Becomes Youngest Player To Score Fifty In Tournaments History

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi: Teenaged batting prodigy Vaibhav Sooryavanshi on Monday etched his name into the history books by becoming the youngest player to score a half-century in the Duleep Trophy during East Zones ongoing semifinal clash against Central Zone at the BCCI Centre of Excellence (CoE) Ground in Bengaluru. At 15 years and 175 days old, Sooryavanshi reached his milestone off just 42 deliveries. He eventually made 92 off 81 balls and broke a 57-year-old record previously held by Laxman Singh, who reached his maiden tournament fifty in 1969 at the age of 16 years and 23 days. Former India leg-spinner Piyush Chawla sits third on the list, having scored a fifty in the Duleep Trophy at 16 years and 307 days. The teenager's whirlwind knock, which fell eight runs short of a debut century in the prestigious first-class cricket competition, dominated the headlines on a day when he showed maturity well beyond his years yet again. During the course of his innings, Sooryavanshi shared a 161-run opening stand with Abhimanyu Easwaran, before being dismissed by India and Central Zone left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey. In his knock, Sooryavanshi slammed seven fours and as many sixes at a strike rate of 113.58. On day one, Sooryavanshi was unexpectedly thrust into a leadership role when regular skipper Ishan Kishan suffered a hand injury during the morning session. The youngster stepped in as stand-in captain for roughly an hour on either side of the lunch break. During the course of his innings, Sooryavanshi shared a 161-run opening stand with Abhimanyu Easwaran, before being dismissed by India and Central Zone left-arm spinner Harsh Dubey. In his knock, Sooryavanshi slammed seven fours and as many sixes at a strike rate of 113.58. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Earlier, Central Zone were bowled out for 266 in 80.1 overs after Kishan opted to field. Mukesh (3-56) and Abhijit Sarkar (3-38) were the standout bowlers for East Zone, while veteran pacer Mohammed Shami (2-42) and off-spinner Kounain Quraishi (2-49) were other wicket-takers. India batter Rinku Singh top-scored for Central Zone with an 88-ball 60, but East Zone remained firmly in command to win the semi-final. Article Source: IANS

BCB president Tamim Iqbal 'hopeful' of India touring Bangladesh in 2026-27 season

Cricinfo understands that the six-ball white-ball series is likely to take place early next year

India And Bangladesh To Play White-Ball Series? BCB President Gives Big Update

The three one-day internationals and three T20 matches in Bangladesh were originally planned for August 2025 but then political relations soured between the two countries.

'This Is PATHETIC Cricket'

'Everyone is talking about the Pakistan team, and how it is the worst touring team in the last 50 years. But nobody is speaking about how the current board is the worst in the last 70 years.'

The Best Way Forward For Me Is To Play As Much As I Can: Hazlewood

Play Cricket Week: Australia fast bowler Josh Hazlewood is targeting a busy run of one-day cricket to maintain his bowling intensity and build towards Octobers Test series in South Africa, saying he wants to play as much as possible after making a successful return to Test action against Bangladesh. Hazlewood is expected to feature in Australias ODI squads for the upcoming tours of Zimbabwe and South Africa, with the squads set to be announced on Tuesday. The experienced quick has identified playing potentially two matches in each three-game series as an ideal way to prepare for the challenges ahead. I think still the best way forward for me is to play as much as I can (within) reason. We've got two ODI series before that Test match series, so it might be playing two out of three in both of those. I think once you're at that intensity, which we're all at now, (it) is trying to maintain that as best we can, Hazlewood told reporters at the launch of Play Cricket Week in Sydney, as quoted by Cricinfo. The upcoming white-ball fixtures offer Hazlewood an opportunity to continue building on his encouraging return against Bangladesh. He claimed seven wickets in the first Test in Darwin, his first appearance in the format for more than a year, before again bowling impressively in the quickfire two-day Test in Mackay, where he took one wicket. After an extended period of preparation before the Bangladesh series, Hazlewood said he was particularly satisfied with how his body had responded to the workload. I'm very pleased with where I'm at physically. (I've) done a lot of work, probably the 10 weeks leading into that series; it was probably our last big training block before what's to come. Very pleased to come out the other side pretty much unscathed, he added. Australia's white-ball plans across Zimbabwe and South Africa are expected to vary, with Pat Cummins, who remains the official ODI captain, likely to feature only in the South Africa leg. Selection decisions could also be influenced by Australia's concurrent Australia A red-ball tour of India, with some players potentially prioritised for that programme as preparations begin for the five-match Border-Gavaskar series in January and February. The Test squad for South Africa is expected to be named early next week, with attention also focused on the fitness of South Africa pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada, who is facing a race against time to recover from a hamstring injury after being ruled out of the ODI series. Hazlewood acknowledged that the full extent of Rabada's injury remains unclear but said Australia would not underestimate the South African fast bowler's ability to recover quickly. We don't know exactly how bad the hamstring is. He seems to recover from any sort of niggle pretty quickly. He's an unbelievable athlete. So I guess we don't think about it too much this far out. Things will become clearer as we get closer. But I'm sure the batters would rather face someone else than KG, the pacer stated. Meanwhile, fellow pace bowler Michael Neser remains hopeful of recovering in time to be considered for the South Africa Test tour as he continues his rehabilitation from a calf injury sustained while training ahead of the Bangladesh series. (I'm) actually ahead of schedule. Neser said after signing a new two-year BBL deal with Brisbane Heat. I had another scan and results came back very good, so I'm progressing quite nicely. Meanwhile, fellow pace bowler Michael Neser remains hopeful of recovering in time to be considered for the South Africa Test tour as he continues his rehabilitation from a calf injury sustained while training ahead of the Bangladesh series. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories While Neser may not be an automatic choice in Australia's starting XI, his return would provide the selectors with valuable pace-bowling depth alongside Hazlewood, Cummins, Mitchell Starc and Scott Boland. Article Source: IANS

Bangladesh, India 'Sincere' Over Delayed Cricket Series: Tamim Iqbal

Bangladesh and India are sincere in their search for a new date for a white-ball series that was first supposed to take place last year, Bangladesh cricket chief Tamim Iqbal said. The three one-day internationals and three T20 matches in Bangladesh were originally planned for August 2025 but then political relations soured between the two countries. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) then said the series would be played this September, but there is no sign of it happening imminently. Both boards are very sincere that this thing happens, Tamim, president of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB), said on the podcast Not out Noman on Sunday. Both BCCI and BCB, we are looking at windows as well, which time what can be done. He added: Intentions are very positive. There was no immediate response from the BCCI. Dhaka and New Delhi have been at odds since a 2024 mass uprising toppled then Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina. She fled to India, her long-time ally, where she remains in hiding. In February, Bangladesh refused to send a team to India for the T20 World Cup, citing security concerns. India last toured Bangladesh for a cricket series in 2022. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Bangladesh visited India in September-October 2024.

Joe Root reveals how he plans to end his batting slump

England captain Joe Root expresses confidence in overcoming his recent batting slump, citing his extensive experience and over 14,000 Test runs as proof of his ability to navigate difficult periods. He also addressed the team's responsible celebration following their series win.

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi smashes 57-year-old record, scores magnificent 92 against Central Zone

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi put forth a brilliant performance in the first innings as Central Zone took on East Zone in the ongoing Duleep Trophy semi-final. The two sides met at the BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India)Centre of Excellence Ground 1, Bengaluru, from August 30th, and the game saw Central Zone come in to bat first and post a total of 266 runs on the board.

Babar Azam admits why Pakistan collapsed at Lord's

Pakistan skipper Babar Azam attributed his team's 194-run defeat against England in the second Test at Lord's primarily to their batting failures in both innings, despite winning the toss and opting to bowl first.

Odisha T20 League CM Trophy Returns With Six Teams And 17 Matches At Cuttack

Odisha T20 League CM Trophy: Odisha cricket enthusiasts can look forward to an engaging tournament as the Odisha T20 League CM Trophy makes a comeback. Six franchises will compete for the title at the historic Barabati Stadium in Cuttack from September 20 to 29. The tournament, titled the CM Trophy to symbolise the dedication and backing of Honble Chief Minister Shri Mohan Charan Majhi for the growth and promotion of cricket and sports in Odisha, will serve as a significant platform for the states rising cricketers to display their talent on a larger stage. The six teams participating are Cuttack Panthers, Bhubaneswar Tigers, Rourkela Steelers, Keonjhar Miners, Puri Titans, and Sambalpur Warriors. The player draft is scheduled for September 6, before the start of the 17-match tournament. For Odishas young cricketers, the league will offer an opportunity to play competitive T20 cricket under lights at one of the states most iconic venues, Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. With seasoned players, coaches, and franchise support, the tournament is likely to provide young athletes with important match experience and serve as a stepping stone in their careers. The trophy was revealed in the presence of Odisha Cricket Association's Office Bearers, officially launching the tournament's second edition. Attendees included Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, President of OCA; Prabhat Bhol, Joint Secretary; Bikash Pradhan, Treasurer; and Pratap Chandra Pradhan, an Apex Council Member. The previous edition saw Cuttack Panthers emerge as champions, and the six teams will now look to build on that competition and challenge for the trophy in the new season. Speaking about the tournament, Odisha Cricket Association President Pankaj Lochan Mohanty said, The Odisha T20 League CM Trophy is an important step towards strengthening the cricketing ecosystem in the state. Our focus is not only on organising a competitive tournament but also on creating a platform where young players can perform, learn and grow. We want Odishas talented cricketers to get the exposure they need to take their careers forward. The league will prioritise increasing visibility for Odishas players. By hosting matches at Barabati Stadium and broadcasting them to a broader audience, young athletes will have a better chance to attract scouts and team attention beyond Odisha. The league is expected to allow Odishas players to perform before a much larger audience, potentially attracting the attention of IPL franchises. The league will provide Odishas players with an opportunity like no other to showcase their talent at the Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. Over 10 days and across 17 matches, they will get the chance to perform on a big stage, he added. The league will prioritise increasing visibility for Odishas players. By hosting matches at Barabati Stadium and broadcasting them to a broader audience, young athletes will have a better chance to attract scouts and team attention beyond Odisha. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The 17-match tournament is set to take place at the Barabati Stadium from September 20 to 29, including an exhibition womens match on the final day. The Odisha T20 League CM Trophy, featuring six franchises, 17 competitive matches, and a talented pool of young cricketers eager to shine, aims to be more than just a domestic T20 event. It serves as a platform for Odishas emerging players to aspire bigger, excel under pressure, and begin their journey toward top-tier opportunities in cricket. Article Source: IANS

US Open Shock: Novak Djokovic Suffers Stunning First-Round Defeat After Gruelling Battle

Novak Djokovic's early exit from the US Open is a major shock to tennis fans after a stellar quest for the 25th record-breaking Grand Slam fell victim in the very first round. Fourth seed Djokovic was defeated by Argentina's Mariano Navone

15-YO Sooryavanshi Breaks 57-Year-Old Duleep Trophy Record

Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, a 15-year-old batter, made history by becoming the youngest player to score a half-century in the Duleep Trophy. Playing for East Zone against Central Zone, he scored an unbeaten 80 off 69 balls, breaking a 57-year-old record.

England V Pakistan Second Test: 3 Talking Points

England thrashed Pakistan by 194 runs to win the second Test at Lord's on Sunday and so take an unbeatable 2-0 lead in a three-match campaign. Below AFP Sport looks at three talking points that emerged as England completed their first multi-match Test series win in over a year. Relentless Robinson The present England management have sometimes given the impression the only thing that matters in a pace attack is sheer speed. But Ollie Robinson has demonstrated the importance of accuracy and movement as well. Robinson lacks the express pace and physical threat of Sussex and England team-mate Jofra Archer. But the seamer's range of skills were on display at Lord's where, albeit helped by a green-tinged pitch, Robinson was named player-of-the-match for a haul of 8-35 that included a remarkable 4-11 in 13 overs during Pakistan's first innings. While concerns over his fitness and questions regarding some social media posts have threatened to derail his England career, there have rarely been any doubts over the 32-year-old Robinson's talent. In his three Tests this season the Sussex captain has taken 23 wickets at a stunningly low average of 8.34, with England skipper Joe Root saying on Sunday Robinson was horrendous (to face) in these conditions. Pitch problems a worry for Lord's The way England opener Emilio Gay fell lbw for 31 to a 'pea-shooter' delivery from Pakistan paceman Mohammad Abbas was the kind of dismissal that really should not happen on the third day of a Test and certainly not at a ground that styles itself as the Home of Cricket. For Gay, struggling to cement his place in the England side, it was a particularly cruel exit as what should be a game of skill was turned into a lottery by uneven bounce. It was also a worrying sign for Marylebone Cricket Club, the owners of Lord's. The pitch for the previous Test at Lord's, against New Zealand, was rated as unsatisfactory by the International Cricket Council, with next year's World Test Championship final relocated across London to the Oval partly as a consequence. And while previous surfaces at Lord's, renowned for its steep slope across the ground, faced criticism for being bland and too much in favour of the batsmen, clearly there are limits. MCC recognised they had an issue after the New Zealand match, announcing the creation of an agronomy advisory group and a phased pitch-relaying programme, although any benefits from may not be seen for several years and are unlikely to be of much consolation to Gay. Shakeel salvages some batting respect for Pakistan Pakistan have yet to make 200 so far this series, with the tourists dismissed for 171 and 135 during an innings and 103-run defeat in the first Test at Headingley before managing 110 and 194 at Lord's. But that Pakistan, already bottom of the World Test Championship table before this latest thumping loss, at least got close to a benchmark total on Sunday was largely down to Saud Shakeel's enterprising 97. Coming in with Pakistan in dire straits at 14-3, he initially scored briskly without taking undue risks before a flurry of thrilling boundaries, including two superb hooked sixes off fast bowler Josh Tongue took him to within sight of a hundred. Shakeel fell just short of what would have been his fifth century in 25 Tests when he holed out off Tongue, the left-hander failing to join Abbas on the Lord's honours boards following the veteran seamer's five-wicket haul earlier Sunday. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories In the batting, we weren't up to the mark (in the first innings), said Babar Azam, the Pakistan captain. Saud Shakeel showed his class and dedication in the second innings.

Shafali Verma On India's Batting Struggles Vs Thailand

India opener Shafali Verma acknowledged the team's batting unit needs to address its shortcomings on turning pitches, despite securing a 94-run victory against Thailand in the Women's Asia Cup opener. Verma, who scored a brisk 64, noted that while the new ball came on well, the older ball gripped and turned, causing difficulties for the middle order. She emphasised the need for adaptation and praised Thailand's improving performance.

Tamim Breaks Silence on Bangladesh's World Cup Boycott

Bangladesh Cricket Board President Tamim Iqbal remains optimistic about a white-ball series against India, despite the originally planned September window being missed. He confirmed that both boards are actively seeking a suitable time, highlighting positive intentions from both sides. Iqbal also reflected on past tensions, including Bangladesh's withdrawal from the 2025 ODI World Cup, acknowledging that negotiations could have been handled better.

Pakistan Hit Panic Button: Squad Clear-Out And Coaching Change Unloading Ahead Of 3rd Test

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has hit the panic button, with sweeping change unloading ahead of the third and final Test against England.

U.S. Open: Djokovic loses in opening round for first time

The 39-year-old lost to Mariano Navone in a five-set marathon that lasted four hours and 36 minutes

Hazlewood looks to maintain intensity after successful Test return

Australia's ODI squads for the Zimbabwe and South Africa series will be named this week

Joe Root's Blockbuster Praise For Team England After Dominating Win vs Pakistan

England Test captain Joe Root praised his team's all-round performance after the Three Lions secured a commanding 194-run victory over Pakistan in the second Test at Lord's on Sunday.

It's Time To Replace Gambhir As Test Coach

India have never looked so vulnerable in Test cricket in recent times. They need a complete reset of their approach to Test cricket, and perhaps a new coach with fresh ideas could revitalise Shubman Gill and his boys.

From Bali To Dubai, How Womens Asia Cup Debutants Indonesia Built A Team From Scratch

Ni Putu Ayu Nanda Sakarini: Twelve years ago, Indonesia had no Women's T20I status, no turf ground, and, the federation admits, barely a cricket structure outside expatriate clubs. On Monday, at Dubai International Stadium, the Indonesia senior women's team will walk out for their first-ever Women's Asia Cup match against Bangladesh. They will also take on defending champions Sri Lanka and hosts UAE. For Indonesia, the fourth most populous country in the world with over 17,000 islands, it's a milestone twelve years in the making, one that almost nobody outside the country saw coming. Leading them out will be Ni Putu Ayu Nanda Sakarini, a wicketkeeper-batter who discovered the sport at high school in 2013. Badminton, not cricket, was the sport she grew up with. Her parents dabbled in it too, and badminton remains Indonesia's standout Olympic sport, with eight golds, six silvers and eight bronzes. Because of that, I loved the sport. But badminton has so many players, and it was difficult to be involved in the national team. So, I thought cricket was good for me, and now it's my career, Nanda told IANS. After an early development tour to Jaipur in 2015, after a national womens championship was set up in 2014 to provide a more formal competitive competition, Nanda made her Indonesia T20I debut in 2019. Now she captains a side making its maiden appearance in Asian cricket's flagship senior event. It's really an exciting and incredible feeling and a big honour for me to lead Indonesia on such a big stage. I feel very proud to be part of this journey. It's taken a long time for me to get into this position. Moreover, I am feeling very nervous because this is the first time we are in the Asia Cup, she added. Head coach Nitish Salekar, previously with Thailand's women's set-up, described a similar sense of pride. I feel really proud, to be honest. The way we played in the qualifiers and to come so far till now, I feel really happy, and I'm excited to play the Asia Cup with this bunch of players, he said to IANS. Indonesia is neither a Test-playing nation nor part of the Commonwealth bandwagon. It has no rock-solid domestic first-class structure, but what it has built over the last twelve years, as per current Persatuan Cricket Indonesia chairman Abhiram Singh Yadav, is building and executing a vision to develop women's cricket at the same pace as the men's game in the country. We have about 200,000 cricketers in Indonesia, and about 100,000 women are playing cricket. So, this Asia Cup, we hope it becomes an amazing moment to inspire the other girls throughout the archipelago of Indonesia. Also, we hope to make some unique surprises in the competition, he said to IANS. Salekar, who played cricket in India for 16 years and represented Maharashtra, feels the talent pool has grown considerably since he arrived in Indonesia. When you compare to Thailand, there are some similarities - the passion with which they play cricket. But when I came, the depth of women cricketers was more in Indonesia. We probably had 30-35 girls playing in the national camp at one point. So, there's definitely more participation over here. Thailand was a much more experienced side, and now when I see this group, I hope they play for a long time. The longer this team plays, the more successful they'll get. It also helps that a few members of the senior squad came through the country's debut at the inaugural U19 Women's T20 World Cup in South Africa in 2023, after cricket was included in Indonesias National Sports Games in 2016. We started cricket from zero, began by introducing it to schools, and we now have cricket on 21 different islands. But the fruit from the seeds sown in the last 12 years is seen now - the women's team are ranked 21 in the world and are now set to play in this Asia Cup. The lucky part is that the women are performing at a much, much higher stage, says Yadav, who became the associations chairman in 2023, after being a part of various youth movements to businesses, including the Indonesian Chambers of Commerce and being a special staff member in the Indonesian Parliament. The federation used Kasti, a traditional bat-and-ball game, to explain cricket in schools, and wrote its cricket coaching curriculum in Bahasa Indonesia from the outset. The International Cricket Council (ICC) also has its own push to make its documents and commentary in Bahasa Indonesia too, apart from commentary of its major events in the language spoken by 90 percent of its residents. The ICC's Cricket Criiio initiative, a global programme to celebrate playing cricket in a fun way, has helped too. Under this, the sport has been introduced via plastic bats and balls in elementary schools, points out Yadav, who himself moved to Indonesia as a four-year-old, with his family roots in Uttar Pradesh, India's most populous state. The quest to play cricket has come at a personal cost for Indonesias players. Nanda gave up teaching physical education to commit to cricket full-time. Most of the players are full-time cricketers. But it was difficult for me to maintain the time for cricket and teaching. So, I quit the teaching job. Also, some of the girls are still studying at the university. But now, because we practice six times a week. The squad draws players from as far as Papua, East Nusa Tenggara and Jakarta, beyond the Bali base most call home - a distance from family, friends and normal life that Nanda calls part of the sacrifice of representing the country at this level. Indonesia's fortunes turned when they joined the Asian Cricket Council in 2024 through its AGM in Bali, with membership approved by then chairman Jay Shah, now head of the ICC. Having missed that year's Women's Asia Cup, Indonesia were determined to make the cut this time. With a camp in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh in November 2025 and a partnership with Western Australia, leading to Ni Made Putri Suwandewi, known as Tori, being an associate rookie for Perth Scorchers in the 2024 WBBL, Indonesia responded with five successive wins over Singapore, Kuwait, Malaysia, Oman and Hong Kong at this years ACC Women's Premier Cup in Malaysia in June. A 113-run victory over Oman confirmed their first-ever Womens Asia Cup berth. I was obviously happy and excited for the girls. This will be my second Asia Cup, so I know the stage. I was quietly confident about the team qualifying due to knowing how we are playing our cricket. But it was actually a good feeling when they qualified. The one thing I have told them is to enjoy this stage, and make the most out of it... It's a great opportunity to showcase your talent on a big stage, said Salekar. The country has never had a turf pitch - all 21 provinces currently use AstroTurf. The federation has just completed contracting two international-standard turf grounds, which Yadav hopes will be ready by November or December this year. Actually, it will be a massive game-changer, especially considering the fact that this team has come so far practising on synthetic wickets till now - it's not easy. So, this team getting access to turf grounds will make them much better in terms of skills. Batters will be able to bat on different wicket conditions every day... The overall cricket will dramatically change when you shift from astro to turf, added Salekar. Drawing from his coaching time with Thailand in the Womens T20 World Cup qualifiers in Dubai, Salekar thinks the stadium with a proper outfield will allow batters to play shots properly, something which matters for a player like Nanda, whose game is built on timing rather than power. No need to hit hard, just get timing with the bat effortlessly, she said, describing what she admires in MS Dhoni, South Africa's Laura Wolvaardt and India's Smriti Mandhana - the last of whom Salekar compared her to independently. Nanda is a good timer of the ball herself and she also kind of plays in the same mould like Smriti, where she relies more on timing than strength, he said. Off the field, the Indonesian dressing room has a very diverse look. Bali, home to most of the squad, has many Hindus, while parts of Sulawesi are dominated by Christians. The current squad includes players who wear the hijab and players who do not, alongside Christian, Catholic, Buddhist and Hindu players. Our difference in religion does not really matter because we share the same goals - to represent Indonesia... Everyone has different beliefs, and we respect each other's beliefs, support each other, and I will always make sure everyone feels included in the team, said Nanda. Yadav described a dressing room where faith is openly shared rather than set aside. When it comes to cricket, our team is very diverse... we are blessed that Indonesian anthropology is very plural. The environment is very supportive, and the uniqueness is that, apart from whatever religion, they support each other. In fact, before every match, all the players stand and pray together by taking turns, despite whatever their religion is. Another beautiful thing about our Indonesian team is they are 100 percent local. For our men's team, yes, we do have expat players. But for our women's team, we have 100 percent local players. Nobody in the camp is treating Monday as a ceiling. Yadav believes Indonesia can overtake long-time regional rival Thailand within one to two years, with the federation scheduled to host the Women's East Asia World Cup qualifier on the new Bali ground next May. Our target is definitely reaching the top 12 in the next five years, and hopefully, afterwards, we can be in the top 10. Our philosophy is always very simple: we are ready to learn, and we are ready to win. The government has been supporting us very well, including the National Olympic Committee and the Ministry - that's why cricket is part of the national games. The result is not only about qualifying for the Asia Cup, but how their skills and mentality are developing. While Salekar's estimate is three to five years before Indonesia is competitive at senior World Cups, Nanda's framing is tied to what the next generation might take from watching the team play in Dubai. Apart from more finances coming in, more game time is in store via the Asian Games and Southeast Asian Games, where Indonesia have been medallists. I'm very grateful to have the opportunity to wear the Indonesian jersey on such a big stage. I hope we can show the world that we also can compete against big teams. I also want to inspire the young girls in Indonesia to get more involved in cricket. She was careful not to look too far ahead, especially with cricket now back in the Olympics. It's very nice to see cricket back in the Olympics. Obviously, one has to take it step by step... We'll start with the Asia Cup, and hopefully, sometime in the future, we'll play in the Olympics as well. I'm very grateful to have the opportunity to wear the Indonesian jersey on such a big stage. I hope we can show the world that we also can compete against big teams. I also want to inspire the young girls in Indonesia to get more involved in cricket. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories No one knows what will happen when Indonesia take the field in their first-ever Womens Asia Cup game on Monday night. They have no blueprint to experience this feeling for a mammoth moment like this. But thirteen years after Nanda first started hitting a ball around in a country with nowhere to play the sport, just being out there and playing in Dubai will be a victory in itself. Article Source: IANS

Mitchell Santners 5-Wicket Haul Powers Edinburgh to 4-Wicket ETPL Win

Mitchell Santner delivered a captains performance with the ball as Edinburgh Castle Rockers secured a commanding four-wicket victory over Dublin Guardians in Match 8 of the European T20 Premier League at Sportpark Westvliet. Dublin Guardians won the toss and elected to bat, but Edinburghs bowling attack quickly turned the decision into a difficult day for the Guardians. The Rockers struck regularly throughout the innings, preventing Dublin from building any substantial partnerships and eventually dismissing them for 109 in 18 overs. James Vince provided the strongest resistance for Dublin, producing an attacking 40 from 30 balls, including five fours and a six. He initially gave the Guardians momentum, but his dismissal for 40 triggered another period of pressure as Dublin struggled to maintain their scoring rate. Sanjay Krishnamurthy added 24 from 24 balls, while Matt Hollard contributed a late nine. However, wickets continued to fall at regular intervals as Edinburgh's attack kept Dublin from building the partnerships they needed. The defining spell came from Edinburgh captain Mitchell Santner. The New Zealand all-rounder produced a superb five-wicket haul, finishing with 5 for 16 from four overs. Santner repeatedly found ways to break Dublins resistance, accounting for Daryl Mitchell, Benjamin Calitz, George Dockrell, James Vince and Matt Hollard. His spell also came at an exceptional economy rate of just four runs an over. Trent Boult supported his captain with two wickets, while Tom Curran, Jack Jarvis and JJ Smuts also claimed one apiece as Edinburgh completed the job with two overs to spare. Chasing 110, the Rockers approached the target with confidence. With the total modest, Edinburgh were able to maintain control despite losing six wickets during the chase. The decisive contribution came through their ability to keep the required rate comfortably within reach. Edinburgh reached 110 for six in 13.4 overs, completing a four-wicket victory with 38 balls remaining. For Dublin, the defeat continues a difficult start to the tournament. Despite individual contributions from James Vince and Sanjay Krishnamurthy, the Guardians were unable to build the substantial total needed to put Edinburgh under pressure. For the Rockers, the victory was built on a ruthless bowling performance and a composed chase. Santners five-wicket burst provided the defining moment of the match, restricting Dublin to a total that Edinburghs batting unit could comfortably overhaul. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The result strengthens Edinburgh Castle Rockers position in the early ETPL campaign, while Dublin Guardians are still searching for their first win and a complete performance with both bat and ball.

SA vs Aus: Rabada sidelined for ODIs, doubtful for Tests

South African pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada has been ruled out of the upcoming ODI series against Australia due to a right hamstring strain and faces uncertainty regarding his participation in the subsequent three-match Test series.

Central Zone vs East Zone, Duleep Trophy Semi-Final Live Score, Day 2: Batter Sooraryavanshi In Spotlight After Captaincy Stint

Central Zone vs East Zone, Duleep Trophy 1st Semi-Final Live: After impressing in the leadership role on Day 1, Vaibhav Sooryavanshi will be under the spotlight again as a batter on Day 2.

Dhruv Jurel ablend of versatility andfortitude

The decision-makers continued to invest their belief in him and the batter has responded in style. Towards the end of June, he was a part of the India A squad that travelled on the shadow tour of Sri Lanka for two unofficial Tests

South Zone vs North Zone, Duleep Trophy 2026 Semi-Final Day 2, Live Updates

South Zone vs North Zone, Duleep Trophy 2026 Semi-Final Day 2, Live Updates: South Zone will resume their innings from 40/2 on Day 2 of the semi-final match of Duleep Trophy 2026 against North Zone in Bengaluru.

Babar Azam Ends Silence On 'Boycott' Rumours Over Imran Khan's Sons' Interview

Babar Azam was asked if Pakistan planned to boycott the Lord's Test against England after broadcaster Sky Sports aired the interview featuring Imran Khan's sons during the Lunch break on Day 1.

Babar Azam Exposed During Post-Match Chat, His Response To 'Change' Shows His Tactical Limits

During the Lord's Test, Babar Azam didn't just disappoint with the bat but also with his tactical limitations as a captain.

'That's All For Show': England Great Blasts Imam-ul-Haq's Injury Drama In 2nd Test

Stuart Broad was unimpressed by the visuals and accused Imam-ul-Haq of putting on a show for the cameras.

Updated WTC Points Table: Does England's Crushing Win Over Pakistan Affect India's Chances?

Ollie Robinson led the way once more as England clinched a series win over Pakistan with a thumping 194-run win in the second Test at Lord's on Sunday...

Gambhir, Agarkar Undecided Over Shreyas Iyer's ODI World Cup Backup. This Player Top Choice: Report

With star all-rounders Hardik Pandya and Nitish Kumar Reddy struggling with injuries, the selectors are facing a challenge in finding the right balance in the middle order.

Dhumal, Majumdar Set to Return to IPL Council

Arun Singh Dhumal and Khairul Jamal Majumdar are poised for unopposed re-election to the IPL Governing Council at the upcoming BCCI Annual General Meeting on September 18. The election process, including nomination dates and candidate scrutiny, has been outlined by the BCCI Electoral Officer.

England trounce Pakistan by 194 runs to win series

Ollie Robinson was Pakistan's chief tormentor again as he took four wickets for 24 to go with the four for 11 he bagged in the first innings, taking his total in the two tests to 16.

Englands pace quartet fires again as Robinson-Archer combo seals series win over Pakistan

England supporters are getting excited about having four seamers who are winning test matches with a home Ashes series against Australia on the horizon

Drawn to defeat: On Indias chances in the ICC World Test Championship

India is now in a must-win situation in the Test Championship cycle

Deepti Sharma Becomes Leading Women's T20I Wicket-Taker With 171 Scalps

Veteran Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma on Sunday became the leading wicket-taker in women's T20 Internationals with 171 wickets, during their 94-run rout of Thailand in the Women's Asia Cup in Dubai.

Harmanpreet Cautions Against Complacency After Thailand Rout

India's women's cricket team secured a commanding 94-run victory over Thailand in their Women's T20 Asia Cup opener. Despite a batting collapse after a strong start by Shafali Verma, India posted 159-9, then bowled out Thailand for just 65, with Deepti Sharma delivering a record-breaking spell. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur acknowledged the win but cautioned against complacency.

Deepti's record spell powers India to 94-run rout of Thailand in women's Asia Cup opener

The flamboyant opener smashed eight fours and three sixes in her 36-ball knock before Thailand's spinners, led by Suleeporn Laomi's three-wicket haul, triggered an inexplicable Indian collapse to restrict the seven-time champions to 159/9

Deepti Sharma Shatters T20I Records on Landmark Day

Indian all-rounder Deepti Sharma has become the leading wicket-taker in women's T20 Internationals, surpassing previous records with 171 wickets. She achieved this milestone in her 150th T20I match, demonstrating her consistent performance and dedication to the team.

India shrug off middle-order collapse to post big win

India lost eight wickets for 46 runs and could only post 159 for 9 despite Shafali's strong start, but bundled Thailand out for 65

Toby Albert fifty fails to ease Hampshire frustration

Visitors, in sight of a win to support survival claims, have Glamorgan struggling in run chase before weather intervenes

Womens Asia Cup: Shafali, Deepti Star As India Thrash Thailand By 94 Runs

Dubai International Stadium: India opened their Womens Asia Cup 2026 campaign in emphatic fashion, registering a thumping 94-run victory over Thailand at the Dubai International Stadium on Sunday, with Shafali Verma's 19th T20I half-century setting up the win before the bowlers dismantled the Thai batting line-up. In pursuit of 160 to win the match, Thailand were all out for only 65 in 16.1 over, with wicket-keeper batter Nannapat Koncharoenkai, being the only player to offer any real resistance by scoring 41 off 48 balls. India's innings began very well after they chose to bat first. Smriti Mandhana was playing well, scoring 19 runs off 10 balls, but was then run out. Pratika Rawal, making her T20I debut, was off to a promising start by scoring 22 runs off 18 balls before Shafali took over in the innings. The brilliant Shafali's overwhelmed the Thai reply by scoring 64 runs off 36 balls, consisting of eight powerful fours and three sixes, thus marking her 19th T20I half-century and securing India a firm lead. India were at 91/1 after 8.5 overs and seemed on the verge of making a large total, but a sudden collapse altered the course of the innings. India fell from 91/1 after 8.5 overs to 137/9 by the end of 17.2 overs as a result of a number of mild dismissals, Deepti Sharma, the all-rounder, also being run out during the collapse. Suleeporn Laomi from Thailand was the most prominent bowler, taking 3 wickets for 26 runs from her four overs; she also contributed to Deepti's wicket by delivering a direct hit that got her run out. India were in real danger of falling far short of a competitive score, but it was Kranti Gaud who gave them the necessary push at the end. Scoring 15 runs off eight balls, she helped India to 159 all out, which gave their bowlers a target they could defend. The Thai pursuit was easily handled by the Indian side. With Deepti Sharma at the helm as an all-rounder, the bowlers took wickets at regular intervals and managed to limit Thailand to 65 runs in 16 and a fifth over. India were in real danger of falling far short of a competitive score, but it was Kranti Gaud who gave them the necessary push at the end. Scoring 15 runs off eight balls, she helped India to 159 all out, which gave their bowlers a target they could defend. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief scores: India-W 159/9 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 64, Pratika Rawal 22; Suleeporn Laomi 3-26, Sunida Chaturongrattan 2-31) beat Thailand-W 65 all out in 16.1 overs (Nannapat Koncharoenkai 41; Deepti Sharma 3-1, Nanadani Sharma 3-18) by 94 runs. Article Source: IANS

Sides content to draw after third-day washout

Stalemate consolidates Somerset's spot among Division One leaders while keeping Sussex in the race

Sri Lanka Loses Women's Champions Trophy Hosting Rights

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has withdrawn Sri Lanka's hosting rights for the inaugural Women's Champions Trophy in 2027, citing government interference in Sri Lanka Cricket's administration. This decision, stemming from the presence of a government-appointed Transformation Committee, could also jeopardise the Sri Lankan women's team's participation and will have financial implications for the board.

Rybakina on track to recover from injury and play at U.S. Open

The twice Grand Slam winner retired in the first set of her Cincinnati quarter-final match against Iga Swiatek on August 20 with an ankle problem

Deepti Sharma's Record Spell Powers India To 94-Run Rout Of Thailand In Women's Asia Cup

Shafali Verma's belligerent 64 set the tone before Deepti Sharma's record-breaking three-wicket burst without conceding a run powered India to a thumping 94-run win over Thailand in their Women's T20 Asia Cup opener.

Vasconcelos, McSweeney hundreds seal stalemate

Rain prevents any prospect of a result as runs are piled up at Wantage Road

Ollie Robinson Strikes Again As England Wrap Up Pakistan Series Win

Ollie Robinson led the way once more as England clinched a series win over Pakistan with a thumping 194-run win in the second Test at Lord's on Sunday despite Saud Shakeel's fine 97. Pakistan were dismissed for 194, having been set an improbable victory target of 389, to give England an unbeatable 2-0 lead in a three-match series. This was England's first multi-match Test series win since a 2-1 success in New Zealand more than a year ago. Robinson finished with figures of 4-24 in 14 overs following his sensational 4-11 in 13 during Pakistan's meagre first-innings 110 all out. The Sussex seamer produced a pair of double strikes Sunday either side of Shakeel and Shan Masood checking England's progress with a fourth-wicket partnership of 97. Robinson took two wickets in four balls to leave the tourists 7-2, before express quick Jofra Archer dismissed Pakistan captain Babar Azam. But from the dire position of 14-3 before lunch, Shakeel and fellow left-hander Masood kept England at bay. Robinson, however, had Masood lbw from around the wicket for a gritty 26 off 72 balls, although it needed a review to reverse umpire Allahuddien Paleker's original not out decision. And 111-4 became 115-5 when Mohammad Rizwan was lbw to Robinson carelessly slogging across the line. Shakeel, 78 not out at tea, went to 86 by hooking Tongue for six and, two balls later, another superb hook off another the fast bowler saw him into the 90s. Shakeel pulled the fifth ball of the over to go to 96 only to hole out soon afterwards when he swung Tongue straight to Harry Brook at deep square leg. A crestfalllen Shakeel received a standing ovation from MCC members in the pavilion as he walked back in after the end of a 122-ball innings also featuring 13 fours. Pakistan were now 169-7, although they were effectively eight wickets down with Imam-ul-Haq still sidelined by the calf problem meaning he was unable to bat in Pakistan's first innings. Tongue then cemented his reputation for polishing off the tail by bowling Khurram Shahzad before ending the match when he had Mohammad Ali caught in the slips by Brook. Pakistan had looked to Masood and Azan Awais to see off the new ball on a still seam-friendly pitch. Awais, however, was lbw to Robinson and, three balls later, Abdullah Shafique was bowled for a duck by a superb delivery from the paceman that angled in and moved away late to hit off stump. Archer's brute of a bouncer then had Azam in a horrible flap, with the ball looping to Jordan Cox at second slip. - Abbas on the honours board at last - Earlier, Mohammad Abbas finally achieved a coveted place on the Lord's honours boards with a return of 5-57 as England were dismissed for 208. Cricketers who take at least five wickets in an innings or 10 in a match or score a century in a Test at Lord's have their feats recorded on one of the honours boards in the home and away dressing rooms at the 'Home of Cricket'. Abbas, 36, had come close before with a trio of four-wicket hauls, including his 4-73 in England's first-innings 290 of this match. But he went one better Sunday after starting the day with 3-48. Dan Lawrence had added just four runs to his overnight 50 not out when he was bowled by Abbas before the veteran seamer had Robinson edging to wicket-keeper Rizwan, who held a fine catch standing up to the stumps. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories An elated Abbas was mobbed by his team-mates before kissing the turf in celebration.

Swanepoel gives Worcestershire a chance before rain has final say

Allround efforts from South African leave Lancashire grateful for more rain

Robinson leads dominant seam display as England seal series with 194-run win

Abbas takes five for Pakistan as Shakeel falls short of consolation century

Arun Dhumal, Khairul Majumdar Set For Unopposed Re-Election To IPL Governing Council

Arun Singh Dhumal and Khairul Jamal Majumdar are set to be re-elected unopposed to the IPL Governing Council at the BCCI Annual General Meeting (AGM) on September 18.

Womens Asia Cup 2026: Thailand Spinners Trigger Dramatic Collapse, Restrict India To 159/9

Dubai International Cricket Stadium: A middle-order collapse triggered by leg-spinner Suleeporn Laomi saw India squander a blazing start to be restricted to 159/9 by Thailand in their 2026 Womens Asia Cup Group A game at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. India appeared firmly in control at 101/2 at the halfway mark, but collapsed spectacularly to score just 58/6 in the final ten overs, as a spirited Thailand attack produced a disciplined bowling and fielding effort to stay alive in the contest. A late rearguard effort from the last-wicket pair of Kranti Gaud and Shree Charani added 22 runs. Gaud hit a six and a boundary off Putthawong in the final over to push India past 150, with Shafali Verma top-scoring through a marauding 64 off 36 balls her 19th T20I fifty in the format. For an impressive Thailand, Suleeporn Laomi was the pick of the bowlers with 3-26, and mainly operated with stump to stump line. She found good support from Sunida Chaturongrattana (2-31) and stand-in skipper Thipatcha Putthawong (1-37). Opting to bowl, Thailand were pushed on the backfoot early on as India started emphatically via Smriti Mandhana hitting three boundaries off Phannita Maya in the opening over. Even as Shafali sent the ball over the in-field for two fours and a six, Smriti was run out for 19 while taking a second run, as a direct hit from Aphisara Suwanchonrathi ended a 38-run opening stand. While Shafali launched Thipatcha for consecutive fours, debutant Pratika Rawal announced herself with a inside-out lofted six off Sunida Chaturongrattana in the fifth over as India raced to 65/1 in the powerplay - their highest six-over score in Womens T20 Asia Cup history. Shafali continued her aggressive display by bringing up her fifty off 26 balls by thumping Suleeporn over long-on for six in the ninth over. But the leg-spinner broke the 53-run second-wicket partnership on the very next ball by castling Pratika for 22 as the batter backed away, but missed the ball which kept low. After that, Indias innings unravelled completely. Thipatcha removed Indian skipper Harmanpreet Kaur by having her caught off a top-edge at point. Suleeporn then turned the match on its head in the 13th over with two wickets in consecutive deliveries. She first had Shafali chipping a cross-seam delivery straight back to her and fall for a 36-ball 64, featuring eight boundaries and three sixes. On the next ball, Richa Ghosh mistimed an inside-out loft to cover to depart for a golden duck. With India losing three wickets in two overs, the lower order struggled to build partnerships. Bharti Fulmali made a scratchy 13 before pulling straight to deep mid-wicket off Sunida, while Deepti Sharma was run out for five after a direct hit from Suleeporn at cover. She first had Shafali chipping a cross-seam delivery straight back to her and fall for a 36-ball 64, featuring eight boundaries and three sixes. On the next ball, Richa Ghosh mistimed an inside-out loft to cover to depart for a golden duck. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Brief Scores: India 159/9 in 20 overs (Shafali Verma 64, Pratika Rawal 22; Suleeporn Laomi 3-26, Sunida Chaturongrattana 2-31) against Thailand Article Source: IANS

Asia Cup: Shafali blitzes Thailand Before India Crumble to Post 159

India's women's cricket team, despite a belligerent 64 from Shafali Verma, suffered an inexplicable batting collapse against Thailand's spinners, led by Suleeporn Laomi, restricting them to 159/9 in their Women's Asia Cup opener.

Foakes digs deep to salvage vital draw for Surrey

Essex pay for lost day to rain as wicketkeeper grinds to safety with rearguard century

Sharma rattles Derbyshire but Middlesex thwarted despite innings forfeit

20-year-old quick claims four wickets to give visitors outside chance of forcing a victory

After Lords Game, Pakistani Players To Meet King Charles Ahead Of Third Test Against England

Test Cricket Team: The Pakistan men's cricket team will have an official meeting with King Charles later this week ahead of the third Test against England, Buckingham Palace has confirmed, following recent off-field friction over a broadcast interview involving former captain Imran Khans sons. The engagement was planned prior to the start of the series, as part of the Monarch's role within the Commonwealth. It will take place during the break between the second game, which is currently underway at Lords, and third Test, starting in Birmingham on September 9. His Majesty the King, as Head of the Commonwealth, will receive the Pakistan Men's Test Cricket Team for an audience in the gardens of Clarence House, in the break between the second and third Test matches hosted in England over the summer, the Buckingham Palace said in an official statement. It is understood King Charles could spend around 15 minutes interacting with the touring squad. The royal engagement comes shortly after tension arose during the day one of the second Test, when broadcasters Sky Sports aired an interview with Suleiman and Kasim Khan, the sons of former prime minister and 1992 Mens ODI World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan. Khan, 73, has been in jail for the past three years on corruption charges, which he denies. Prior to the broadcast, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), headed by current Pakistan interior minister Mohsin Naqvi, had raised concerns and floated the possibility of not taking the field after lunch. It is understood King Charles could spend around 15 minutes interacting with the touring squad. The royal engagement comes shortly after tension arose during the day one of the second Test, when broadcasters Sky Sports aired an interview with Suleiman and Kasim Khan, the sons of former prime minister and 1992 Mens ODI World Cup-winning captain Imran Khan. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories England are scheduled to undertake a return tour to Pakistan this October for a T20I tri-series, with Sri Lanka as the third team. The matches will take place at the Rawalpindi Cricket Ground and Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore. Article Source: IANS

Auqib Nabi's Fairytale Journey Continues With Surrey County Cricket Deal

Jammu and Kashmir pacer Auqib Nabi is set to represent Surrey in the Division One County Championship fixtures from next week onwards, with an eye on two Tests against New Zealand away from home in November.

Pakistan Cricket Board Takes Huge Call Amid Controversy Over Imran Khan's Sons' Interview: Report

The PCB has advised its players involved in the Test series against England not to comment on the issue of Imran Khan's imprisonment.

Auqib Nabi set for Surrey stint ahead of New Zealand Tests

Auqib Nabi's Surrey stint will provide crucial first-class exposure in England as the J and K pacer seeks to strengthen his case for India's Test squad for New Zealand.

Duleep Trophy | Used injury-induced break to become a better bowler, says Kaverappa

Thailand bowl; India hand T20I debut to Pratika Rawal

Thailand's stand-in captain Putthawong hoped to keep India to a score of 120 in Dubai

Womens Asia Cup: Thailand Elect To Bowl Against India, Pratika Rawal Handed Debut

Dubai International Cricket Stadium: Thailand have won the toss and elected to field first against India in their 2026 Womens Asia Cup Group A fixture at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday, with top-order batter Pratika Rawal handed her T20I debut by the Harmanpreet Kaur-led side. India, the seven-time winners, are opening their campaign against Thailand, who are coming after beating Hong Kong China in a nervy finish. The two sides have met three times in T20Is, with India winning all games by big margins. Pratika, already capped in ODIs and Tests, came into Indias squad for the continental event as Jemimah Rodrigues' replacement for the Asia Cup, following the latter's hamstring injury. We also thought of bowling first, but batting first is also not a problem. It is our first match in Dubai. Rather than keeping a lot of things in mind, it's about going out there and giving our best. Today Pratika is making her debut because Jemi is not there. Playing good cricket is what we want to do. We have spoken about being ruthless and this is an important tournament for us, said India skipper Harmanpreet Kaur. Thailand will be led by Thipatcha Putthawong, as regular skipper Nannapat Koncharoenkai is injured. We are going to bowl first. Nothing more than 170 (to keep India to). Yes, we are excited (to play against India). The match also marks off-spin bowling all-rounder Deepti Sharma's 150th T20I game, making her only the third Indian cricketer after Harmanpreet (202) and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana (171) to achieve the milestone. Globally, Deepti becomes the 12th player in womens cricket history to feature in 150 T20Is. Playing XIs: The match also marks off-spin bowling all-rounder Deepti Sharma's 150th T20I game, making her only the third Indian cricketer after Harmanpreet (202) and vice-captain Smriti Mandhana (171) to achieve the milestone. Globally, Deepti becomes the 12th player in womens cricket history to feature in 150 T20Is. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Thailand: Natthakan Chantham, Nannapat Koncharoenkai (wk), Chanida Sutthiruang, Suleeporn Laomi, Onnicha Kamchomphu, Thipatcha Putthawong (captain), Phannita Maya, Aphisara Suwanchonrathi, Sunida Chaturongrattana, Nannaphat Chaihan, and Naomi Hamilton Article Source: IANS