Samson, Abhishek and Reddy power India to series win
Samson scored 57, and Abhishek hit 39 to set up the win in just 14.5 overs after Reddy's three wickets
Bamber stars with six but Essex battle back on 19-wicket day
Warwickshire just 17 runs ahead at the close with one wicket remaining on lively day at Chelmsford
2nd T20I: Samson, Abhishek Power-dominant Chase As India Beat Afghanistan By 7 Wickets
Arun Jaitley Stadium: India produced another emphatic chase at the Arun Jaitley Stadium, defeating Afghanistan by seven wickets in the second T20I on Tuesday to take an unassailable 2-0 lead in the three-match series. Chasing 160 after Afghanistan posted 159/8, India needed only 14.5 overs to cross the line, riding an explosive opening stand between Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma before Ishan Kishan and Tilak Varma completed the job. Samson provided the defining contribution at the top, smashing a 22-ball 57 in an innings that combined seven fours and four sixes. After a quiet opening couple of overs, the right-hander rapidly shifted gears, finding the boundary repeatedly against Afghanistans spinners. Abhishek was equally aggressive, reaching 39 from 19 deliveries with two fours and four sixes. The pair raced to a 50-run partnership in only 28 balls and took India to 82 without loss at the end of the powerplay the same score India had managed in the first six overs of the opening T20I. Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan was brought into the attack in the seventh over and immediately provided some relief. He ended the 93-run opening partnership by dismissing Abhishek, who miscued an attempted big hit to Sediqullah Atal at mid-wicket. Rashid struck again, four balls later, ending Samsons blistering stay when the opener lofted a delivery towards long-off, where Mohammad Nabi completed the catch. Despite losing both openers, India were already 99/2 after seven overs and firmly in control. Shreyas Iyer joined Ishan Kishan, who had continued the momentum with a six off Noor Ahmad. Iyer briefly threatened to accelerate, hitting Rashid for a six over extra cover, but the Afghanistan skipper claimed his third wicket soon after when Iyer edged a faster delivery to Ibrahim Zadran at slip. That was effectively Afghanistans final opening. Tilak Varma joined Kishan with India needing only 35 runs, and the pair kept the chase moving without taking unnecessary risks. Kishan then launched Mujeeb Ur Rahman for four, six and four in the 14th over, reducing the equation to a single hit. Tilak took a single off Rashid before Kishan finished the chase in style, cutting the next delivery through the off-side for four. Earlier, Afghanistan had a difficult start after Jasprit Bumrah opened with a maiden, and Arshdeep Singh removed Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a second successive duck in the series. Ibrahim Zadran rebuilt with Sediqullah Atal before Nitish Kumar Reddy dismissed Zadran for 37. Reddy went on to claim three wickets for 24 runs, while Arshdeep took two. Rashid Khans 28 off 16 and Mohammad Nabis 20 helped Afghanistan recover late, but Bumrah and Reddy struck in the final two overs to prevent a bigger finish. Noor Ahmad hit a six from the final ball to take Afghanistan to 159/8, but Indias openers ensured the target never became a serious challenge. The third and final T20I will be played on Thursday, with India holding an unassailable 2-0 advantage. Noor Ahmad hit a six from the final ball to take Afghanistan to 159/8, but Indias openers ensured the target never became a serious challenge. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Afghanistan 159/8 in 20 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 37, Rashid Khan 28; Nitish Kumar Reddy 3-18, Arshdeep Singh 2-35) lost to India 163/3 in 14.5 overs (Sanju Samson 57, Abhishek Sharma 39, Ishan Kishan 38*; Rashid Khan 3-36) by 7 wickets. Article Source: IANS
Renshaw hits maiden ODI ton as Ellis destroys Zimbabwe
Matt Renshaw scored a maiden one-day international century and Nathan Ellis took five wickets to guide Australia to a 59-run victory over Zimbabwe in the first match of their three-game series in Harare. Australia posted 294-8 batting first, with Renshaw making 109. Zimbabwe, despite fighting half-centuries from Craig Ervine and Sikandar Raza, were bowled out for 235.
Sanju Samson's hammering knock seals series for India after another lacklustre show from Afghanistan
India thrashed Afghanistan by seven wickets in the second T20I of the three-match series at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. After a flawless bowling show, in which India managed to restrict Afghanistan to 159 runs, openers Sanju Samson and Abhishek Sharma dominated the proceedings, helping the team seal a comfortable 2-0 series win.
'Treatment is basic humanity': Australia captains on Imran
Seven former Australian cricket captains, including Greg Chappell and Steve Waugh, have urged Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong to address the welfare of imprisoned former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan. Their appeal focuses on humanitarian treatment and due process, not the legal or political aspects of his case, citing concerns about his deteriorating health.
Laura Wolvaardt equals Smriti Mandhanas record for most international hundreds
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) South African skipper Laura Wolvaardt has put herself alongside Smriti Mandhana at the summit of the century chart of womens international cricket, producing a record-breaking 126 not out to power the Proteas women to an unassailable 3-0 series lead over Zimbabwe. The Proteas skippers extraordinary innings in the third T20I was her fourth hundred in the format and the 18th century of her international career, taking her level with Indias Mandhana for the most hundreds in womens cricket. Wolvaardt needed only 62 deliveries to reach 126, striking at a remarkable 203.22. Her assault on the Zimbabwe bowling attack featured 16 fours and four sixes, while the unbeaten effort also rewrote the South African record books. The 27-year-old surpassed her own previous T20I best of 115 not out, scored against Ireland in December last year. More significantly, she went past Shandre Fritzs unbeaten 116 against the Netherlands in 2010 to claim the highest individual T20I score by a South African woman. It was a performance that turned an already dominant series into a personal landmark for Wolvaardt, who was named Player of the Match after carrying South Africa to 200/1. The skipper found valuable support at the other end from Karabo Meso, with the wicketkeeper-batter completing an unbeaten 50 from 51 balls. Together, the pair ensured South Africa had a formidable total to defend. Zimbabwes response never threatened to match the tempo set by Wolvaardt. The hosts were reduced to 29/4 during the powerplay and slipped further to 35/6 after losing two more wickets in the next two overs. Annerie Dercksen then added another milestone to South Africas evening, claiming her maiden five-wicket haul in T20Is. Her 5/15 helped complete Zimbabwes collapse as the hosts were dismissed for 120, handing the Proteas an 80-run victory. Michelle Mavunga offered Zimbabwe some resistance with a 23-ball 41, while Nyasha Gwanzura made 28. Christine Mutasa and Loryn Phiri contributed 19 and 14 respectively, but the damage had already been done. Dercksen was backed by Eliz-Mari Marx, Seshnie Naidu, Luyanda Nzuza and Ayanda Hlubi, who took a wicket apiece. The result continued South Africas commanding start to the five-match series. They won the opening T20I after bowling Zimbabwe out for 116 and chasing the target in 13.1 overs before claiming the second match by 64 runs. The fourth T20I will be played on September 17.
In a major development, star India batter Rinku Singh is all set to get married to Samajwadi Party MP Priya Saroj. The two are set to get married on December 4, and the couple will tie the knot at the Ramada Hotel in Lucknow. It is interesting to note that the couple got engaged on June 8, 2025, and ever since then, Rinku Singh has been the talk of the town.
Mack's unbeaten 83 seals Australia A series win against India A
Niki Prasad's unbeaten 54 and two wickets went in vain for India A
2nd T20I: Rashid, Nabi Rally Afghanistan To 159/8 After Early Blows From India
Arun Jaitley Stadium: With their middle order mounting a late recovery before Indias bowlers regained control at the death, Afghanistan overcame a testing start but could manage to post only a modest 159/8 in the second T20I at the Arun Jaitley Stadium on Tuesday. Jasprit Bumrah set the tone immediately after the start, opening with a maiden over against Ibrahim Zadran. Arshdeep Singh then struck in his first over, dismissing Rahmanullah Gurbaz for a second successive duck in the series. Gurbaz attempted to flat-bat a short-of-length delivery but top-edged it to Ravi Bishnoi at mid-on, leaving Afghanistan at 2/1. Zadran initially struggled for fluency but found his rhythm in the third over, taking four boundaries off Arshdeep. He and Sediqullah Atal subsequently put together Afghanistans best passage of the powerplay, although Indias disciplined bowling kept the scoring rate in check. Zadran and Atal added 50 for the second wicket before the partnership was broken in the eighth over. Nitish Kumar Reddy, introduced into the attack, struck with his first delivery as Zadran holed out to Bishnoi at deep mid-wicket for a 33-ball 37, which included six fours. The breakthrough triggered a mini-collapse. Atal departed for 12 in the following over, slicing Bishnois googly to Tilak Varma at long-off, while Nitish returned to remove Gulbadin Naib for 10 in the 11th over. Afghanistan slipped to 67/3 before Darwish Rasooli and Azmatullah Omarzai attempted to rebuild. Rasooli provided much-needed acceleration, launching Shivam Dube for a six and striking another maximum off Axar Patel. Omarzai also chipped in with two fours, but Axar eventually got the key wicket of the all-rounder for 11, with Tilak completing the catch. Rasooli followed shortly afterwards for a brisk 26 off 15 balls, caught near the boundary by Tilak off Arshdeep. Afghanistan were 105/6 at that stage and appeared headed for a modest total. However, Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan changed the momentum with an aggressive 48-run partnership. Nabi struck Bumrah for a four in the 19th over, while Rashid attacked Arshdeep in the previous over, collecting two fours and a six to take 16 from it. Bumrah eventually ended Nabis resistance for 20 off 14, caught by Shreyas Iyer at cover. Nitish then produced the decisive blow, removing Rashid off the first ball of the final over for 28 off 16. Axar took a superb diving catch at deep square leg. Afghanistan nevertheless finished strongly. Mujeeb Ur Rahman collected four runs from the final over before Noor Ahmad provided the flourish, launching Nitish over mid-wicket for six off the last delivery. Nitish was Indias standout bowler with 3/24, while Arshdeep claimed 2/35. Bumrah finished with 1/25 from his four overs, and Afghanistan ended their innings on 159/8. Afghanistan nevertheless finished strongly. Mujeeb Ur Rahman collected four runs from the final over before Noor Ahmad provided the flourish, launching Nitish over mid-wicket for six off the last delivery. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Afghanistan 159/8 in 20 overs (Ibrahim Zadran 37, Rashid Khan 28; Nitish Kumar Reddy 3-18, Arshdeep Singh 2-35) against India Article Source: IANS
2nd T20I: Nitish's 3 wickets put India in control vs Afghanistan
Nitish Kumar Reddy's impressive three-wicket haul spearheaded a disciplined Indian bowling attack, restricting Afghanistan to 159 for eight in the second T20I. Despite a late surge from Mohammad Nabi and Rashid Khan, India maintained control throughout the innings, setting up a chaseable target.
Seven former Australia captains appeal for Imran Khan
Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh signed the letter to Australias Foreign Minister Penny Wong
Seven former Australia captains appeal for Imran Khan
Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh signed the letter to Australias Foreign Minister Penny Wong
Kushal Malla back in Nepal's squad for Asian Games
The 15-member squad will be led by Dipendra Singh Airee, who replaced Rohit Paudel as captain after the T20 World Cup
Why is Vaibhav Sooryavanshi still warming the bench?
Indian cricket fans and former players questioned India's decision to leave Vaibhav Sooryavanshi out of the XI for the second T20I against Afghanistan.
Charani becomes first Indian bowler to cross 800-mark in ICC rankings, Deepti jumps four places
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) Sree Charani has accomplished a significant achievement as she became the first Indian bowler to cross the 800-rating mark in the ICC T20I rankings following the latest update on Tuesday. This follows a stellar performance for the left-arm spinner in the Asia Cup 2026 final, where she scalped 4-20 in the title decider against Sri Lanka to cap off a strong tournament, as she ended with 12 wickets. Charani's performances have made her breach the 800-mark rating in the T20I bowlers' rankings as she now tallies 804 ratings, which has helped her further consolidate her position at the top. She is now the first Indian bowler to have breached the mark and third overall as she eyes to break the highest-ever rating. The best-ever rating in women's T20Is for bowlers currently belongs to Australia pacer Megan Schutt, who touched an 806 rating during her reign at the pinnacle. Charani, who broke Poonam Yadav's record for most wickets taken by an Indian in a calendar year, is just the third bowler to achieve 800 ratings in the T20I bowlers' rankings, with former No.1 Sophie Ecclestone having touched 802 ratings earlier. Meanwhile, while Charani continues to consolidate her position at the top, star all-rounder Deepti Sharma has emerged as a distant challenger for Charani's throne. Deepti took 3-19 in the Asia Cup final and emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the tournament with 14 scalps. She has been further rewarded for her performances as she makes a four-place jump to reach No.2 in the bowlers' list with a rating of 729, a distant second behind her compatriot Charani. There was more joy for India in the ICC rankings following India's record-extending eighth Asia Cup title. Shafali Verma moved a place up in the T20I batters' rankings after her match-winning 68 in the final to take the sixth spot in the batters' rankings. Meanwhile, Shafali also moved five places up in the T20I all-rounders' list to reach No.15 in the standings.
Wolvaardt century, Dercksen five-for seal series for South Africa
Wolvaardt drew level with India's Smriti Mandhana for most international hundreds (18) after her fourth in T20Is while Meso scored her first fifty
Curtis Campher Stars As Amsterdam Flames Set New ETPL Benchmark
Amsterdam Flames produced their highest-scoring performance of the ETPL, posting a record 214 for five before defeating Dublin Guardians by 59 runs at Malahide
Abhishek Sharma Shouldn't Have Played: World Cup-Winner Drops Surprising Remark On India Opener
Abhishek Sharma scored 82 in India's T20I win over Afghanistan, but Krishnamachari Srikkanth criticised his selection due to poor recent form.
'We aim to create opportunities for young players,' says OCA Prez ahead of Odisha T20 League
Digital Desk | Cuttack, Sep 15 (IANS) With less than a week to go for the start of the Odisha T20 League CM Trophy, excitement is building across the state as teams prepare for the new edition of the tournament. Six franchises, Bhubaneswar Tigers, Puri Titans, Keonjhar Miners, Rourkela Superstars, Sambalpur Warriors and Kataka Panthers, will compete for the title in the tournament scheduled to begin on September 20 and run until September 29 at the iconic Barabati Stadium in Cuttack. Speaking ahead of the tournament, Pankaj Lochan Mohanty, President, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA), said, The excitement around the Odisha T20 League is growing with every passing day. We are looking forward to a competitive and exciting edition of the tournament. The league is an important platform for Odisha cricket as it gives our players the opportunity to play competitive T20 cricket, perform under pressure and gain valuable experience. We aim to continue strengthening the cricketing structure in Odisha and create more opportunities for young players. We have seen several talented cricketers emerge from the state, and a tournament like this can give them the exposure and confidence to take the next step in their careers. We are confident that the players, teams and fans will make this edition a memorable one, he added. Sanjay Behera, Odisha Cricket Association (OCA) Secretary, said, The Odisha T20 League is about creating a pathway for the next generation of cricketers in the state. Competitive matches give young players the chance to test themselves in pressure situations, learn from experienced players and understand what it takes to perform at a higher level. We hope this edition will help more players gain confidence and take important steps forward in their careers. The tournament will also feature a womens exhibition match on the final day, adding another attraction for fans and providing women cricketers with an opportunity to showcase their skills on a big stage. With six franchises and 17 matches, the Odisha T20 League CM Trophy will bring together some of the states brightest cricketing talent. The tournament is expected to provide young players with a strong platform to gain match experience and put their performances in front of a wider audience at the Barabati Stadium, which has hosted international matches in the past. As the countdown begins, fans across Odisha will be looking forward to seeing their favourite teams and emerging stars in action, with the league aiming to further strengthen the states growing cricketing culture.
2nd T20I: The Calmer You Are In The Middle, The Better You Get Every Day, Says Ishan Kishan
MA Chidambaram Stadium: Ishan Kishan believes that learning to stay calm at the crease has transformed his approach to batting, as the East Zone captain reflected on his recent Duleep Trophy campaign after guiding his side to the title at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Kishan believes moving away from the fear of failure and allowing his instincts to take over has helped him become more effective in the middle. I think initially there were a lot of thoughts going on in my head. You have to get runs for your team, you have to make everyone proud, you have to take care of your place in the team. So you bat accordingly, and when you think about this, I think a fear of failure comes into your game. So you start thinking about, I dont want to lose my wicket, which also initiates the fact that you wont be trying so many good shots, Kishan told broadcasters ahead of Indias second T20I against Afghanistan. His central message, however, remained rooted in simplicity and composure. But at the end of the day, I think Ive just realised that if youre in the middle, if youre calm, youre just trying to watch the ball and not the bowler, and youre just playing your shots. So, everything is taken care of, and you just have to keep it simple because at the end of the day when youre playing at this level, obviously you have all the skills and everything. Its just the mindset, which is the most important thing. So the calmer you are in the middle, the better you get every day, he added. Kishan, who led East Zone to their first Duleep Trophy triumph in 13 years, said his current method is built around reacting to the delivery rather than deliberately searching for scoring areas. I think Im not over-trying to play shots. Im not thinking about playing shots. Its just that my bodys reacting to it. So Im just focusing more on my hand-eye coordination. Its not that Im thinking about a particular area where I want to hit. Its just about watching the ball till the last moment, understanding what the bowler is trying to do and where my run-scoring options are, Kishan stated. The wicketkeeper-batter also explained how his thinking during a match has changed. He recalled his approach during the Duleep Trophy when East Zone still had plenty of work to do despite being ahead in the contest. My job was to understand that (the) match is not over until its over. There was still one day left, so I had to get those big runs coming because we were two wickets down and I know one partnership could make the shoulders down (in the third innings), but its important to just be there, spend some time, so that they lose interest in the game and we are on the upper hand. For Kishan, the same principle now extends beyond batting. He said he remains keen to contribute in the field when he is not keeping wickets, while acknowledging that his catching needs further attention. Hundred percent. I have been athletic throughout my life, and I feel Im very good when Im fielding as well. But still I have dropped a few catches in the past few games, so Ill have to work a lot on my fielding as well. He added that fielding opportunities can have a major bearing on matches, particularly when chances go down early. Because at this level, sometimes you drop catches and you dont realise it because the batsman did not score so much. But if you drop someone good from a good team, like you drop him around fourth or fifth over and he ends up getting runs, it will be a huge difference for us. He added that fielding opportunities can have a major bearing on matches, particularly when chances go down early. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories So Im just trying to work more on my fielding and wicketkeeping as well. So whenever you get an opportunity to keep or field, youre just there, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
The Indian team takes on Afghanistan in the 2nd T20I of the ongoing series. The two sides meet at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on September 15. It is worth noting that the Men...
India bowl with Bishnoi in as the only change
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi remains on the bench for the second T20I running. Afghanistan went in unchanged
India-Afghanistan 2nd T20I: India opt to field first
India lead the three-match series which is being hosted by Afghanistan 1-0, having won the opening T20I by seven wickets
India have made just one change in their playing XI for the second T20I against Afghanistan at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in New Delhi. Star spinner Varun Chakaravarthy, who incurred an injury in the previous...
Yuvraj: India must avoid 'massive changes' ahead of 2027 ODI World Cup
The former allrounder asked India to take a leaf out of their T20 World Cup wins and build a consistent squad in the lead up to the 50-over World Cup
IND vs AFG, 2nd T20I LIVE Score: India look to clinch T20I series in Delhi
The stage is set for the 2nd T20I of the ongoing series between India and Afghanistan. The teams meet at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi for the clash, and after winning the first T20I...
India vs Afghanistan 2nd T20I LIVE Score Updates: India face off against Afghanistan, aiming to clinch series victory with another win.
Where to watch England vs Sri Lanka 1st T20I live on TV and stream online in India?
The stage is set for the upcoming T20I series between England and Sri Lanka. The two sides are slated to take on each other in a multi-format white-ball series. The teams will take on each...
Comment | Refusal to collect trophy reflects poorly on the Indian cricket firmament
In a utopian world, sport and politics should never be mixed but that is never the case with India and Pakistan, especially in cricket
India vs Afghanistan Live Streaming, 2nd T20I Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch Live
India vs Afghanistan Live Streaming, 2nd T20I Live Telecast: When And Where To Watch Live
Matt Renshaw Slams Maiden ODI Hundred, First For Australia Against Zimbabwe Since 2004
Harare Sports Club: Australia batter Matt Renshaw on Tuesday slammed his maiden ODI century in the first ODI of the three-match series against Zimbabwe at the Harare Sports Club. Renshaw's 109 was the first century by an Australian against Zimbabwe since Michael Clarke hit an unbeaten 105 against the Chevrons in 2004. Renshaw, who made his ODI debut in the 2025 home series against India, carried the innings together after the Aussies were in a spot of bother at 83/3 in 13 overs after opting to bat first. The Southpaw eyed himself in and kept the scoreboard ticking before unleashing an attack to bring up his fifty off 55 balls. He continued in a similar vein, scoring boundaries at will and got to his hundred off 86 deliveries. This is also the fastest century by an Australian against Zimbabwe, bettering the previous record of 89 balls by Adam Gilchrist in the Hobart ODI in 2004. This was also the first ODI ton by an Australian at No.6 or lower since that gigantic and unbeaten Glenn Maxwell 201 against Afghanistan in the 2023 World Cup. Renshaw's stellar knock came to an end when he was caught at deep mid-wicket off left-arm speedster Newman Nyamhuri, who completed his maiden five-wicket haul with the scalp. Renshaw's 109, Cooper Connolly's 51, Oliver Peake's 30 and Mitchell Marsh's 36 were the strong knocks from the Aussies to set up a decent 294-run total in the series opener. Earlier, Cameron Green missed out on the Playing XI due to shoulder soreness, while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was rested due to workload management as Australia have a gruelling season ahead. Playing XIs: Earlier, Cameron Green missed out on the Playing XI due to shoulder soreness, while fast bowler Josh Hazlewood was rested due to workload management as Australia have a gruelling season ahead. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Zimbabwe: Brian Bennett, Ben Curran, Innocent Kaia, Brendan Taylor(w), Craig Ervine, Sikandar Raza(c), Wessly Madhevere, Brad Evans, Newman Nyamhuri, Wellington Masakadza, Blessing Muzarabani Article Source: IANS
Sachin Tendulkar's ODI World Record Broken By Zimbabwe Star
Sachin Tendulkar has consequently slipped to second place on the list, while former Sri Lanka cricketer Sanath Jayasuriya occupies third spot
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi has captured the imagination of the world with his ability. At 15 years of age, Sooryavanshi is the youngest Indian to play international cricket
UPL 2026 To Kick Off On Sep 21, Womens Icon Players Announced
Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium: The third edition of the Uttarakhand Premier League (UPL) is set to be held from September 21 to October 1 at the Rajiv Gandhi International Cricket Stadium, with both mens and womens competitions featuring leading cricketers from the state. Organised under the aegis of the Cricket Association of Uttarakhand (CAU), UPL 2026 will provide another competitive platform for players from across the state to showcase their skills. The mens competition will feature Dehradun Warriors, USN Indians, Haridwar Elmas, Tehri Titans, Rishikesh River Kings, Pithoragarh Hurricanes and Nainital Tigers. The womens competition will comprise Mussoorie Queens, Bageshwar Aerial, Pithoragarh Hurricanes and Dehradun Warriors. Four womens icon players have also been announced for the tournament, with Prema Rawat, Raghvi Bist, Nandini Kashyap and Sweta Verma set to add experience and quality to the competition. Speaking ahead of UPL 2026, Cricket Association of Uttarakhand Secretary Kiran Verma said the league has become an important platform for the states cricketers. The Uttarakhand Premier League has emerged as an important platform for showcasing the talent of our players. The success of the first two editions encourages us to make UPL 2026 even bigger and provide our men and women cricketers greater opportunities to progress to higher levels, Verma said. Former BCCI Vice-President and former CAU Secretary Mahim Verma said the league offers players an opportunity to gain visibility ahead of the IPL auction period. Uttarakhand has immense cricketing talent, and the UPL provides players the platform and visibility they deserve. Being held ahead of the IPL auction period, the League offers players an excellent opportunity to attract attention through their performances, he said. UPL Chairperson Sunil Joshi said the tournament will continue to focus on creating opportunities for players from the state. The UPL is about creating opportunities for Uttarakhands cricketers. The first two editions have demonstrated the depth of talent in the State, and UPL 2026 will provide another competitive stage for players to perform, be noticed and aim for opportunities at the highest level, he said. The Uttarakhand Premier League has emerged as the states flagship T20 competition, allowing talented cricketers to play alongside experienced performers in a professionally organised environment. The league is also being held ahead of the IPL auction cycle, providing players with a platform to showcase their T20 abilities and attract wider attention. The Uttarakhand Premier League has emerged as the states flagship T20 competition, allowing talented cricketers to play alongside experienced performers in a professionally organised environment. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The second edition further built on the foundation with an expanded competitive field and continued opportunities for players from across the state. Article Source: IANS
Renshaw's maiden ODI hundred leads Australia to 294
Left-arm seamer Newman Nyamhuri claimed his first five-wicket haul to keep the visitors under 300
'Get your house in order': McCullum's warning to Carse
England white-ball coach Brendon McCullum has issued a strong message to pacer Brydon Carse, urging him to address his off-field conduct and make responsible decisions if he wishes to return to the national squad. Carse was recently stood down from the Test squad after an arrest and has faced previous disciplinary action for betting regulation breaches.
Sydney Sixers Rope In 'versatile' Alice Capsey From Renegades For WBBL 12
Big Bash League: Sydney Sixers have added more power to their squad by signing England international Alice Capsey from Melbourne Renegades for the Women's Big Bash League 12. Capsey, a batting all-rounder, has added another skill to her already impressive resume when she took over the gloves for wicketkeeping during England's ODI series against Ireland. She is already a gun batter and a pretty handy off-spinner, but her job with the wicketkeeping gloves against Ireland when Amy Jones was being managed has truly given the Sixers versatility in all departments. This was the first time Capsey took the gloves since her underage cricket. Sixers coach Peter Clarke welcomed Capsey and highlighted how crucial she can be to the combinations. Sixers don't have a wicketkeeper as of now, as Emma Manix-Geeves has not re-signed with the club. It's nice to have that option up your sleeve if you need it, Clarke said on being quizzed if Capsey could take the gloves in WBBL 12. Whether we have an injury to whoever's our primary keeper or you decide to do different things with your list the more versatile any player is, the more options you have as a coaching staff to try different combinations maybe. So her having that string to her bow is a plus, and she can also bowl; she's also a good fielder, and she's obviously a bat. I think at her best she could be a great player. We're looking forward to working with her at the Sixers, and hopefully we can provide her with an environment to help her perform at her best consistently and contribute to the success of the club. Capsey will be crucial for the Sixers in filling in the void left by the retired Alyssa Healy as she partners compatriot Sophia Dunkley, Ellyse Perry and Amelia Kerr on the Sixers' side. She spent the previous two seasons with the Melbourne Renegades and played for cross-town rivals Melbourne Stars in the 2022/23 and 2023/24 seasons of the Australian league. Capsey will be crucial for the Sixers in filling in the void left by the retired Alyssa Healy as she partners compatriot Sophia Dunkley, Ellyse Perry and Amelia Kerr on the Sixers' side. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The WBBL is one of the best competitions in the world and the chance to represent a club with such a strong reputation and history is really special. I've loved my previous experiences playing in Australia, and I'm looking forward to returning and being part of the Sixers environment. Article Source: IANS
Babar returns to domestic cricket after Test struggles
Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam is set to play domestic first-class cricket for OGDCL in the President's Trophy to address his prolonged dip in Test form. Azam has struggled to score centuries since December 2022 and has faced criticism for his inability to convert starts, prompting him to seek PCB's help to participate in the longer format domestically.
Shree Charani achieves career-best rating, Deepti climbs to No. 2 in T20I rankings
Sree Charanis rating points are the highest ever achieved by an Indian in the ICC rankings for both batters and bowlers, surpassing former skipper Mithali Raj's previous record of 780 points in batting rankings in 2011
David Warner To Play In Nepal Premier League For Kathmandu Gorkhas
Nepal Premier League: Former Australian batter David Warner has joined Kathmandu Gorkhas to play in Nepal Premier League season 3, the franchise announced on Tuesday. Hi everyone, I am really excited to be coming to Nepal and joining the Kathmandu Gorkhas squad. I know it has been an incredibly difficult time for so many, and I hope that the NPL could bring some joy and give people something to come together, Warner said in the video posted by the NPL franchise. I have heard so much about the passion and the fans. I can't wait to experience it all. I can't wait to meet you and get out there and be with my team. Three cities, one soul, one team and one dream. Ayo Gorkhali! Warner concluded in his video address. The franchise is also pretty excited to have the 2021 T20 World Champion in their squad. 12th Warriors, you manifested this! Two-time ICC Mens Cricket World Cup champion. T20 World Cup champion and Player of the Tournament. World Test Championship winner. Triple centurion. And the only player to win three IPL Orange Caps, the franchise wrote on X. One of world crickets most explosive names is now coming to our Valley. This one is for our 12th Warriors. This one is for Nepal cricket. David Warner, welcome to the Valley, it added. Warner has been one of the most prolific batters in the IPL. He is the highest-scorer among overseas players in the Indian cash-rich league with 6565 runs in 184 matches and is one of the only four players to have scored over 6000 runs in the tournament's 19-year-long history. During his time, he played for the Delhi Capitals and is a 2016 IPL winner with the Sunrisers Hyderabad. However, he was not picked in the IPL 2025 mega auction and did not register for the 2026 edition after missing out on a bid. Apart from the IPL, Warner has been one of the most sought-after players in franchise cricket and still continues to be a regular face in several franchise leagues, having recently featured in the BBL 2025/26 and the PSL 2026. Meanwhile, Anubhab Swar Sirohiya, executive director of Kathmandu Gorkhas, hailed the signing of the former Australian batter. This moment is deeply personal to me as well, said Sirohiya. Bringing David Warner to the Kathmandu Gorkhas was not something that happened overnight. It took months of conversations, persistence and belief from everyone involved. There were many moments when it felt difficult, but the possibility of seeing a player of his stature represent Kathmandu and play at the TU Cricket Ground made every effort worthwhile. Meanwhile, Anubhab Swar Sirohiya, executive director of Kathmandu Gorkhas, hailed the signing of the former Australian batter. This moment is deeply personal to me as well, said Sirohiya. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories This is for Nepali cricket. And above all, this is for every cricket fan in Nepal who has always believed that our country and our game deserve the biggest stage. Article Source: IANS
Deepti jumps to No. 2 on Charani-led T20I bowling rankings
Shafali was ranked sixth in the T20I batting rankings with only four points separating her from Mandhana at fifth spot
Charani, Deepti make big gains in ICC Women's T20I Rankings
Indian spinner Shree Charani has maintained her top position in the ICC Women's T20I Player Rankings with a career-best 804 rating points, while compatriot Deepti Sharma has risen four places to second, following their stellar performances in the Women's T20 Asia Cup.
WI Series: Will Selectors Throw Pant A White-Ball Lifeline?
National selectors are set to convene in New Delhi to finalise India's ODI and T20I squads for the upcoming home series against West Indies, with Rishabh Pant's potential white-ball return and Hardik Pandya's fitness being the primary discussion points.
Brendan Taylor breaks Sachin Tendulkar's ODI record
Zimbabwean cricketer Brendan Taylor has surpassed India's Sachin Tendulkar as the longest-serving one-day international player, with his ODI career now spanning 22 years and four months. Taylor, who previously retired and served a ban, returned to play for Zimbabwe ahead of the 2026 ODI World Cup.
Steve Smith gives crucial update on his future, opens up on availability for Ashes 2027
Veteran Australia batter Steve Smith is widely revered as one of the greatest batters of his generation. At 37, Smith remains an integral part of Australias Test team, playing a key role in the sides middle order. As he enters the twilight of his cricket career, many fans have questioned what the future holds for Steve Smith.
ICC T20I Rankings: Shree Charani Crosses Historic 800-Point Mark; Shafali Verma Returns To Top 6
Indian players have been rewarded with significant gains in the ICC Womens T20I Player Rankings following their teams record eighth Womens Asia Cup title, with Shree Charani strengthening her position at the top of the bowling rankings and Shafali Verma returning to the top six among the batters. Charanis outstanding four for 20 in the final against Sri Lanka at the Dubai International Stadium has lifted the left-arm spinner above the 800-point mark for the first time, to a career-best 804 rating points. That is the highest rating points ever achieved by an Indian in the ICC Womens T20I Player Rankings for both batters and bowlers, surpassing Mithali Rajs previous record of 780 points in the batting rankings back in 2011. Charani is now just two points short of the highest rating points ever achieved by a womens T20I bowler achieved by Australias Megan Schutt in November 2018. Indias bowling attack was further rewarded with Deepti Sharma moving up four places to second after finishing the Asia Cup as the tournaments leading wicket-taker with 14 scalps. Seamer Nandani Sharma has climbed 10 places to 94th following an impressive tournament with the ball, while leg-spinner Prema Rawat has made one of the biggest gains of the week, surging 50 places to 96th. Nandani was particularly economical, conceding just 4.64 runs per over. In the ICC Womens T20I Batting Rankings, Shafali Vermas outstanding tournament has seen her rise from seventh to sixth. Verma was the leading run-scorer at the Asia Cup with 236 runs, including scores of 64 in the semi-final and 68 in the final, and now has 741 rating points her highest since October 2021. She is just one place and four rating points behind teammate Smriti Mandhana, who sits fifth on 745 points after scoring 213 runs in five innings. Verma has also made significant progress in the all-rounders rankings, moving up five places to 15th and reaching a career-best 221 rating points. Sri Lankas Nilakshika Silva was the third-highest run-scorer at the Asia Cup with 108 runs and has moved up one place to 44th in the batters list. Captain Chamari Athapaththu has also made an impact with the ball, with her headline figures of seven for five against Indonesia contributing to a tournament tally of 12 wickets. She has moved up one place to 27th among the bowlers while retaining third place in the all-rounders rankings. Elsewhere, South Africas ongoing T20I series against Zimbabwe has produced a major mover in the batting rankings. Anneke Bosch has surged an extraordinary 323 places to 54th after starring with the bat as South Africa took a 2-0 lead in the five-match series in Bulawayo. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Bosch scored 83 from just 43 deliveries in the opening victory before following it with 65 from 31 balls in the second match, making her one of the biggest movers across this weeks rankings.
ICC T20I: Sree Charani has accomplished a significant achievement as she became the first Indian bowler to cross the 800-rating mark in the ICC T20I rankings following the latest update on Tuesday. This follows a stellar performance for the left-arm spinner in the Asia Cup 2026 final, where she scalped 4-20 in the title decider against Sri Lanka to cap off a strong tournament as she ended with 12 wickets. Charani's performances have made her breach the 800-mark rating in the T20I bowlers' rankings as she now tallies 804 ratings, which has helped her further consolidate her position at the top. She is now the first Indian bowler to have breached the mark and third overall as she eyes to break the highest-ever rating. The best-ever rating in women's T20Is for bowlers currently belongs to Australia pacer Megan Schutt, who touched an 806 rating during her reign at the pinnacle. Charani, who broke Poonam Yadav's record for most wickets taken by an Indian in a calendar year, is just the third bowler to achieve 800 ratings in the T20I bowlers' rankings, with former No.1 Sophie Ecclestone having touched 802 ratings earlier. Meanwhile, while Charani continues to consolidate her position at the top, star all-rounder Deepti Sharma has emerged as a distant challenger for Charani's throne. Deepti took 3-19 in the Asia Cup final and emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the tournament with 14 scalps. She has been further rewarded for her performances as she makes a four-place jump to reach No.2 in the bowlers' list with a rating of 729, a distant second behind her compatriot Charani. Meanwhile, while Charani continues to consolidate her position at the top, star all-rounder Deepti Sharma has emerged as a distant challenger for Charani's throne. Deepti took 3-19 in the Asia Cup final and emerged as the leading wicket-taker in the tournament with 14 scalps. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Meanwhile, Shafali also moved five places up in the T20I all-rounders' list to reach No.15 in the standings. Article Source: IANS
AFG vs IND: Approaching Milestones and Records Ahead of 2nd T20I, Afghanistan vs India series 2026
AFG vs IND 2nd T20I,Approaching Milestones and Records :The Indian Cricket Team recorded an easy win in the first game of the three-match T20I series against Afghanistan. Abhishek Sharma and bowlers made the opposition struggle. Team India had good powerplays with bat and ball. Abhishek slammed a 22-ball fifty and finished with a blistering knock of 82 runs off 32 balls, slamming seven maximums and seven boundaries. Afghanistan reached a below-par total with the bat, and it was an uphill task to defend on a flat deck. India have carried on their dominance over Afghanistan and recorded another win. Now, they will be keen to add another win in their kitty and win the series. The second T20I is scheduled to begin on Tuesday at 7:30 PM IST at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi on Tuesday. Afghanistan will be hoping for a quick turnaround to record their maiden international win over India and level the series. But they need a strong display on the field to do so. Here, we will talk about big records and milestones which are lined up and can be achieved in the AFG vs IND 2nd T20I at Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi. AFG vs IND: Approaching Test Records and Cricket Milestones Ahead of the AFG vs IND 2nd T20I at Arun Jaitley Stadium 49 - Abhishek Sharma slammed a blistering fifty in the first game and won the MOTM award. He needs 49 runs to surpass Shikhar Dhawan (1759) and become India's sixth-highest scorer in T20I cricket. 58 - Sanju Samson missed in the first game. But he is just 58 runs away from completing 1500 T20I runs. 24 - Afghan captain Ibrahim Zadran needs 24 more runs to surpass Chris Gayle's tally of 1899 runs in T20I cricket. He also needs five sixes to complete 50 T20I sixes. 19 - Veteran all-rounder Mohammad Nabi needs 19 more runs to complete 2500 T20I runs. 1 - Gulbadin Naib needs one more six to complete 50 T20I sixes. 84 - Tilak Varma needs 84 more runs to reach 5000 T20 runs in his career. 1 - Sanju Samson will play his 350th match in T20 cricket on Tuesday. 4 - Ishan Kishan needs four sixes to complete 350 T20 sixes in his career. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories 1 - Ishan Kishan needs one more six to have the most international sixes in 2026. He needs 42 more runs to become the leading scorer in T20I cricket in 2026.
Shree Charani Scripts ICC Rankings History With Never-Seen-Before Feat
Shree Charani picked up four wickets in the Asia Cup final against Sri Lanka at Dubai International Cricket Stadium to finish with 12 scalps for the tournament and the left-armer has broken new ground on the latest rankings update.
India ODI Squad: BCCI Could To Pick 3 IPL Captains, Pant May Return vs West Indies: Report
While the T20I squad is expected to be a mirror image of the Asian Games squad with the matches starting from October 6, the selection committee led by Ajit Agarkar does have a job at hand to pick the 50-over squad from the options available.
BCCI Official Asked About 'Friendly' Chat With Mohsin Naqvi. His Reply
A top BCCI official was asked about his 'friendly' chat with Mohsin Naqvi during the Women's Asia Cup 2026 final.
Hardik's Comeback On September 20?
Hardik Pandya is reportedly nearing a return to competitive white-ball cricket, subject to medical clearance.
Pakistan Pacer Razaullah Reveals Meeting With Root After Birmingham Heroics
Pakistan Cricket Board: Pakistan's rising pacer Razaullah has revealed on his meeting with England icon and captain Joe Root following his heroics in Pakistan's eight-wicket loss at Edgbaston. Razaullah put on a show with both bat and ball on his Test debut after being sent an SOS call with six other players as the Pakistan Cricket Board released seven players and coaches, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul, ahead of the third and final Test of the series. The four-wicket outing and a blistering 81 with the bat saw showers of praise from several corners, as he has now revealed his special meeting with Root after the Test. As per Pakistan Observer, Root met Razaullah and offered him advice following the series, which he said was a great source of happiness. Receiving such appreciation from a world-class player was a great source of happiness and encouragement for me, Razaullah said, as quoted by Pakistan Observer. Razaullah had played only eight first-class games before being called into the Pakistan side as one of the five uncapped players. The speedster gave some life to Pakistan during their improbable-looking task. After being shot out for 133 in the first innings and conceding 453 against the Three Lions, Pakistan were in danger of losing the Test within two days when they were 0/2 in their second innings. Razaullah had played only eight first-class games before being called into the Pakistan side as one of the five uncapped players. The speedster gave some life to Pakistan during their improbable-looking task. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Razaullah had reflected on his performance, saying that he was selective with his shots. I was being selective with which balls to slog, but they all seemed within range, he said casually. I wanted to take it as deep as possible. I wasn't scared of pace. I wanted to punish the balls from Archer that landed on a hard length. There's nothing to be scared of when you're playing for your country. I was just enjoying myself. Article Source: IANS
'It Can Spiral Out Of Control': Ed Cowan Warns Privatisation Of BBL
Big Bash League: Former Australian cricketer Ed Cowan has stated the Big Bash League does not need to rush privatisation, warning that such a move can spiral out of control. Cricket Australia recently opened the door for private investment in the BBL, but kept it as a self-determination model for the states, who will have the final say to decide when and whether to sell the stakes. (In previous seasons) they've been able to reshape scheduling, to reshape international stars and the salary cap around that. We've seen already there's no friction to attracting some of the world's best players, Cowan said, as quoted by ABC News. He argued that the BBL has already been attracting big players and warned of selling the star assets. Ben Stokes is going to Adelaide, Finn Allen has just signed a mega deal. So the argument that is put forward is we're gonna lose players to the South African League. We haven't lost one yet. There's a view that the business could be run more effectively, which would enable some time to work out whether you actually do need to sell your star assets or not. Because when you start burning the furniture to warm the house, it can spiral quickly out of control from there, he added. CA recently agreed to the sale of Melbourne Renegades, stating that it would invite bids from private owners for a 100 per cent stake in the Renegades, with a view to the club playing the 2027-28 WBBL and BBL season under new ownership. Recently, Australia Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins and women's skipper Sophie Molineux had thrown their weight behind the privatisation of the league. Privatisation, if done well, can be a great thing for the sport, Cummins said. So many benefits for obviously the Big Bash League, but as an Aussie captain as well, Test cricket's so important for me, and I think this sets us up really well for the future. This can unlock some new areas that we can go into in the Women's Big Bash, Molineux, who captains the Renegades in the WBBL, added. New investors, new opportunities to be able to innovate and grow the game. The Women's Big Bash, quality-wise, is still the best competition in the world. But bringing in all these new opportunities that come with privatisation can hopefully make the product even better, which is a really cool thing to be part of. Meanwhile, Cricket NSW opposed the privatisation move. NSW, which operates the Sydney Sixers and Sydney Thunder, has consistently rejected privatisation and questioned the financial assumptions behind the proposal. New investors, new opportunities to be able to innovate and grow the game. The Women's Big Bash, quality-wise, is still the best competition in the world. But bringing in all these new opportunities that come with privatisation can hopefully make the product even better, which is a really cool thing to be part of. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We are proud to be part of an Australian cricket system that is the envy of the world. Yesterday's announcement threatens this system. The redistribution of profits to external investors reduces our ability to invest in community cricket, creating long-term impacts at all levels. Article Source: IANS
Asia Cup Shouldn't Be Political Casualty
The trophy is supposed to be the full stop to a tournament, not another comma in an India-Pakistan controversy, points out K R Nayar.
Green out with shoulder soreness, Hazlewood rested, Australia bat first
Brendan Taylor returns to keep for Zimbabwe in his first ODI in a year
Marizanne Kapp withdraws from WBBL to focus on international commitments
Digital Desk | Melbourne, Sep 15 (IANS) South Africa all-rounder Marizanne Kapp has withdrawn from the upcoming Womens Big Bash League (WBBL) season to focus on international duties, leaving Melbourne Stars without one of their key overseas players for WBBL 12. Kapp, who joined the Stars on a three-year contract ahead of WBBL 10, has decided against playing the final year of her deal as she shofted her focus on the South African schedule, which begins with a Test match against India on December 9, just four days after the conclusion of the WBBL. The Test will be part of a multi-format series that also includes three ODIs and three T20Is. South Africa will then feature in the inaugural Womens Champions Trophy in February before hosting Australia in a multi-format series from March to April. Kapp has been a regular presence in the WBBL, having featured in all 11 seasons of the competition across four teams. However, her 2026 campaign was affected by illness and injury. While the Stars will miss Kapps contributions, club's general manager James Rosengarten said they respect her decision. We are of course disappointed to be without someone of Marizannes calibre this season, Rosengarten said. She is one of the worlds finest all-round players but we understand her priorities at this stage and it will present another list opportunity for the Stars. The Stars have moved quickly to strengthen their squad, securing the services of England duo Dani Gibson and Amy Jones for the upcoming season. The English pair made an immediate impact during their debut seasons for the club last year, adding class to the Stars batting line-up. Jones cemented herself as a reliable number three option in 2025, scoring 234 runs from 11 matches, with a top score of 59. The 33-year-old was equally as valuable behind the stumps, proving herself as one of the best wicket keepers in the world. Gibson has also represented her country in 35 T20 matches and will be a threat with both bat and ball in hand. She is one of the leagues best power hitters, finding the boundary on 26 occasions last tournament, scoring 170 runs at a strike rate of 139.34. Jones will return to the Stars after finishing as the teams second-highest run-scorer in WBBL 11, while pace-bowling all-rounder Gibson will enter her third season with the Melbourne-based franchise. It was a priority for us to have both Dani and Amy return this season, so were really pleased with this outcome, Rosengarten said. They are both very talented cricketers in multiple ways, which is so valuable in this format. We are bolstering our batting line-up with two different skillsets, while also gaining a wicketkeeper and bowler, he added.
'Good Teams Remember What Happened Earlier': Mazumdar On India Avenge 2024 Asia Cup Loss
Dubai International Cricket Stadium: India women's head coach Amol Mazumdar said strong teams never forget their previous setbacks as he praised his side for learning from their 2024 final defeat to Sri Lanka and responding with a dominant 72-run victory in the Asia Cup 2026 final. India lifted the continental title for a record-extending eighth time after posting 183/5 and bowling Sri Lanka out for 111 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium on Sunday. Speaking to the players in the dressing room after the triumph, Mazumdar highlighted how the team had used its previous final experience to produce a better performance this time around. Good teams, they remember what had happened earlier. Strong teams never forget. They should never forget what had happened, Mazumdar said in a video shared by the BCCI. Sri Lanka had beaten India by eight wickets in the 2024 final in Dambulla to claim their maiden Womens Asia Cup title. India, however, returned to the final two years later and made sure there was no repeat of that result. Mazumdar first praised the opening partnership between Shafali Verma and Smriti Mandhana, who put India in a commanding position with a record 129-run stand. I think before I say anything, I think a massive round of applause for the 129 runs scored, he said. Shafali smashed 68 off 39 balls, while Mandhana made 59 off 39 as India raced to a strong total. Shafali also registered the fastest half-century in the history of the tournament, reaching the landmark in just 24 balls. Mazumdar then turned his attention to the bowling performance, praising the efforts of the entire unit before highlighting young spinner Shree Charani, who returned figures of 4-20. Bowling, unbelievable. Kranti superb. Two overs, eight runs, one wicket. Nandini Sharma, three overs, 17 runs. One for 22 of three for Prema, three for 19 off four for Deepti, superb, four overs, 23, one wicket for Shafali, he said. For the bowling group, the youngest member, Shree Charani, she was amazing, Mazumdar added while applauding the youngsters four-wicket haul. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur also credited the team for learning from its previous final experience and producing a more disciplined performance. I think the last time in the finals we made many mistakes, but we have learnt from them. Today was all about playing good cricket and trying to make fewer mistakes on the field because we have seen the finals; its all about giving your best and at the same time making fewer mistakes, Harmanpreet said. Captain Harmanpreet Kaur also credited the team for learning from its previous final experience and producing a more disciplined performance. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The triumph also gave India their eighth Womens Asia Cup title, further extending their record in the competition. Article Source: IANS
Imran Khan Will Die: 7 Ex Captains Seek Australian Government's Intervention For Pakistan Legend
Seven former Australian cricket captains have urged their government to seek better treatment for jailed ex-Pakistan captain Imran Khan.
Zimbabwe vs Australia 1st ODI, Live Score Updates
Zimbabwe vs Australia 1st ODI, Live Updates: Zimbabwe will be taking on Australia in the first ODI of the three-match series on Tuesday at the Harare Sports Club.
Zimbabwe vs Australia Live Telecast, 1st ODI Live Streaming: Where And Where To Watch
Zimbabwe vs Australia Live Telecast, 1st ODI Live Streaming: Zimbabwe are set to host Australia in a three-match ODI series, starting on September 15 at the Harare Sports Club.
Border, Waugh Among Seven 7 Ex-Aussie Skippers Make Humanitarian Appeal For Imran Khan
Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif: Seven former Australian captains have reached out to the foreign minister Penny Wong in a humanitarian appeal for former Pakistan captain and ex-Prime Minister Imran Khan over his imprisonment. The letter, signed by Allan Border, Greg Chappell, Ian Chappell, Belinda Clark, Kim Hughes, Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh, mentioned that the former skippers are writing this ot as diplomats or political figures, but as former captains who felt compelled to speak up. As per Cricinfo, the letter also mentioned that he group makes clear it takes no position on the legal or political case against Mr Khan, calling it a matter of Pakistan, but they expressed concerns about any detained person's health, calling it a matter of basic humanity, whatever their politics. Recently, Imran's sons also expressed concerns over their father's health in an interview with Sky Sports during the England-Pakistan series as the Pakistan Cricket Board threatened to pull out of the Lord's Test, but ultimately kept playing and lost big. Its very, very clear what theyre doing, which is theyre just blatantly trying to kill him in there, Imran's son, Sulaiman Isa Khan, said. They just want to keep him in there as long as possible and hopefully just silence him. The latest letter follows the growing support for Imran from cricket captains around the world. Earlier, Australia legend Greg Chappell and current Aussie Test and ODI skipper Pat Cummins put their weight behind Imran, asking for the treatment of the former captain in jail. In the petition raised by Chappell and addressed to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, which includes signatures from Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Dilip Vengsarkar, it has urged Pakistani authorities to grant family access and independent medical checks for Khan. Adding my support here to GC and the other former international captains. I hope the court-ordered medical assessment be allowed to run its course and that family visits continue. I hope Imran Khan is treated with the dignity anyone deserves, Cummins had written on his X account. In the petition raised by Chappell and addressed to Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, which includes signatures from Sunil Gavaskar, Kapil Dev and Dilip Vengsarkar, it has urged Pakistani authorities to grant family access and independent medical checks for Khan. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Imran Khan is 73 years old and has now spent more than three years in custody. Whatever the legal and political arguments surrounding his case, the basic decency of ensuring a court-ordered medical process is actually completed is not, in our view, a controversial request, the letter stated. Article Source: IANS
New Delhi: Australia Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins feels that Australia might have to face a little bit of hostility when the Aussies head to South Africa for their first Test tour since the infamous Sandpaper gate incident in 2018. The Aussies will now be touring South Africa for three ODIs and as many Tests. While they have previously played white-ball cricket in South Africa, this is their first red-ball series since that 2018 incident. While Australia are currently in Zimbabwe for three ODIs, Cummins will be joining the team in South Africa for the one-dayers before the Tests begin on October 9. There might be a little bit of hostility, Cummins admitted during the Keepin it Cricket podcast. (But) it can't be louder than an Ashes series Birmingham, the Hollies Stand at Edgbaston, that gets pretty rowdy. Cummins opened up about his previous experience playing in South Africa on white-ball tours and being the standout performer in the 2018 Test series. As long as I've been to South Africa, there are some parts of the crowd that get stuck in, but I reckon we've seen it all before. And most importantly, I'm captain, so I'm in the middle; I'm not near the fence! However, he believes that the dust would have settled by now, as focus will remain on cricket once the first ball is thrown. It (Sandpapergate) was kind of really spoken up (in past series), and it was almost a bit underwhelming, Cummins said about the reaction from Proteas fans. Everyone moves on. The good thing is, three Tests, you get stuck into the cricket, and everyone just worries about the cricket pretty quickly. Im sure therell be some rowdy people in the crowd, and some articles or some media bring up stuff. But our groups moved on, he added. Australia have six survivors from that infamous 1-3 loss to the Proteas, as the ball-tampering issue put Australian cricket in very dark clouds, leading to bans of the likes of Steve Smith and David Warner for a year and Cameron Bancroft for nine months. Meanwhile, the Aussie skipper also spoke on the recent loss to Bangladesh in Darwin, their first to the Bangla Tigers at home, as he brushed aside the talk of a lack of preparation for the series. Australia have six survivors from that infamous 1-3 loss to the Proteas, as the ball-tampering issue put Australian cricket in very dark clouds, leading to bans of the likes of Steve Smith and David Warner for a year and Cameron Bancroft for nine months. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories He admitted that the team was not at its best in Darwin. I just dont think we played very well. I dont think it was a lack of prep. I just dont think we were at our best, and Bangladesh played brilliantly, and didnt really let us in, he added. Article Source: IANS
'Might be little bit of hostility': Cummins on Australia's first SA tour after Sandpaper gate
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Sep 15 (IANS) Australia Test and ODI captain Pat Cummins feels that Australia might have to face a little bit of hostility when the Aussies head to South Africa for their first Test tour since the infamous Sandpaper gate incident in 2018. The Aussies will now be touring South Africa for three ODIs and as many Tests. While they have previously played white-ball cricket in South Africa, this is their first red-ball series since that 2018 incident. While Australia are currently in Zimbabwe for three ODIs, Cummins will be joining the team in South Africa for the one-dayers before the Tests begin on October 9. There might be a little bit of hostility, Cummins admitted during the Keepin it Cricket podcast. (But) it can't be louder than an Ashes series Birmingham, the Hollies Stand at Edgbaston, that gets pretty rowdy. Cummins opened up about his previous experience playing in South Africa on white-ball tours and being the standout performer in the 2018 Test series. As long as I've been to South Africa, there are some parts of the crowd that get stuck in, but I reckon we've seen it all before. And most importantly, I'm captain, so I'm in the middle; I'm not near the fence! However, he believes that the dust would have settled by now, as focus will remain on cricket once the first ball is thrown. It (Sandpapergate) was kind of really spoken up (in past series), and it was almost a bit underwhelming, Cummins said about the reaction from Proteas fans. Everyone moves on. The good thing is, three Tests, you get stuck into the cricket, and everyone just worries about the cricket pretty quickly. Im sure therell be some rowdy people in the crowd, and some articles or some media bring up stuff. But our groups moved on, he added. Australia have six survivors from that infamous 1-3 loss to the Proteas, as the ball-tampering issue put Australian cricket in very dark clouds, leading to bans of the likes of Steve Smith and David Warner for a year and Cameron Bancroft for nine months. Meanwhile, the Aussie skipper also spoke on the recent loss to Bangladesh in Darwin, their first to the Bangla Tigers at home, as he brushed aside the talk of a lack of preparation for the series. Whether that was an Ashes Test or a Bangladesh series, I think we would have prepped exactly the same. Of course you look at it after the series, but I actually thought we were in a really good spot; everyone fit, firing. He admitted that the team was not at its best in Darwin. I just dont think we played very well. I dont think it was a lack of prep. I just dont think we were at our best, and Bangladesh played brilliantly, and didnt really let us in, he added.
Stars lose Kapp but acquire Gibson and Jones for WBBL 2026
Marizanne Kapp, who had one year left on her contract, has opted out to focus on her international commitments
Pakistan Test Captain Babar Returns To Domestic Cricket For First Time Since 2019
Gas Development Company Limited: Pakistan Test captain Babar Azam is set to return to the domestic red-ball circuit for the first time in seven years in a bid to regain his form. Babar's last domestic first-class appearance came when he led Central Punjab to the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy title in December 2019. He will play for Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL) in the ongoing President's Trophy Grade 1 first-class tournament after the department signed him as a guest player. Babar joined a number of Pakistan internationals featuring in the Presidents Trophy amid the PCBs recent push for established players to participate in domestic first-class cricket. ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi is representing KRL, while T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha is playing for Kingsmen Academy, according to Dawn. Babar will arrive back in Pakistan from the UK on Sept 16 and will join the OGDCL squad the next day, OGDCL sports head Farah was quoted as saying. His kit has been ordered. Babar will decide upon his arrival if he plays from the second match or the third match, Farah said. Babar joined a number of Pakistan internationals featuring in the Presidents Trophy amid the PCBs recent push for established players to participate in domestic first-class cricket. ODI captain Shaheen Shah Afridi is representing KRL, while T20I skipper Salman Ali Agha is playing for Kingsmen Academy, according to Dawn. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Pakistan are ranked ninth in the ICC Test rankings at the moment and are at the bottom of the nine-team World Test Championship table, which is exactly where they were in the last cycle. They have also failed to reach the knockouts of the last four ICC tournaments and were knocked out of the home Champions Trophy in 2025 within five days of its start after losing the first two of their three group matches, to New Zealand and India. Article Source: IANS
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi Finds Support From Pakistan After Being Ignored For Afghanistan Opener
Vaibhav Sooryavanshi warmed the bench in the first India vs Afghanistan T20I in New Delhi on Sunday
Sushma Verma Replaces Yastika Bhatia In TKR Squad Ahead Of WCPL Playoffs
Trinbago Knight Riders: India wicketkeeper-batter Sushma Verma has joined Trinbago Knight Riders as a replacement for Yastika Bhatia ahead of the Women's Caribbean Premier League 2026 knockouts. The development comes as Yastika leaves the 2022 champions ahead of the 2026 final as she prepares to lead India A in a three-match one-day series against Australia A at home. The series will begin on Sunday in Mohali. Sushma has been out of the reckoning from the Indian side for quite some time now. Her last international game came in 2021 during an ODI against South Africa women at home. She was in the Indian team for the last time in 2023 for the T20I tri-series in South Africa, which also featured West Indies. However, she did not get a game there and warmed the benches. This is her return to top-flight cricket, as she has also not been playing franchise cricket since 2023, the only time she played the franchise league with Gujarat Giants in the WPL. She was excited to be part of the TKR side ahead of the knockouts. It's special to be part of the WCPL, and I am grateful to the Knight Riders set-up for this opportunity, Sushma said, as quoted by Cricinfo. I feel it is the fruit of the hard work I have put into my T20 game. The wicketkeeper batter has been working on her six-hitting skills. This is her return to top-flight cricket, as she has also not been playing franchise cricket since 2023, the only time she played the franchise league with Gujarat Giants in the WPL. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Meanwhile, TKR have earned a direct entry into the final after finishing on top of the four-team table. Barbados Tridents and Guyana Amazon Warriors will play in the only playoff on Wednesday, ahead of the Thursday final. Article Source: IANS
Babar Azam Returns To Domestic Cricket For First Time In 7 Years, Joined By Other Senior Stars
Babar joined a number of Pakistan internationals featuring in the President's Trophy amid the PCB's recent push for established players to participate in domestic first-class cricket.
McCullum Wants Pietersen to Challenge England's White-Ball Approach
England's white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum has encouraged newly-appointed mentor Kevin Pietersen to actively challenge the team's approach and suggest improvements, leveraging his and quot;incredible pedigree as a player. and quot;
Brydon Carse Gets Big Advice From Brendon McCullum After Nightclub Row
England white-ball coach Brendon McCullum has urged pacer Brydon Carse to get his house in order and focus on making the right decisions both on and off the field if he wants to push for a return to England's squads.
Kohli, Rahane, Pujara wish fans on Ganesh Chaturthi
Indian cricketers Virat Kohli, Shikhar Dhawan, Ajinkya Rahane, and Cheteshwar Pujara took to social media to extend their warm wishes to fans on the auspicious occasion of Ganesh Chaturthi, sharing messages of peace, health, and prosperity.
Babar returns to domestic first-class cricket after seven years in bid to rediscover form
Babar Azam has not played domestic first-class cricket since 2019, but recently requested the PCB to find him a team in the ongoing President's Trophy Grade 1 tournament
Ignored By BCCI Selectors, India Star Joins County Championship Side Nottinghamshire
Mukesh Kumar, who has 26 international caps across all formats, including three Test appearances, has taken 32 wickets for India.
WCPL: Sushma Verma joins TKR after Yastika Bhatia leaves for India A duty
Trinbago Knight Riders are already in the final of the tournament, where they will play the winners of the playoff between Barbados Tridents and Guyana Amazon Warriors
India Cricket Teams and the Asian Games Accommodation Debate: The Full Story
The accommodation arrangements for Indias cricket teams at the 2026 Asian Games in Aichi-Nagoya created an unusual controversy, largely because crickets stars are accustomed to luxury five-star hotels on international tours. The Indian Olympic Association, however, made it clear that the cricketers would not receive special accommodation simply because they belonged to cricket. The message was straightforward: if the BCCI wanted to house its players outside the official Games accommodation, it could do so, but it would have to take responsibility for the hotel, food, transportation, logistics and ensuring that the players reached the venues on time. The issue has now been settled. The BCCI has agreed that the Indian mens and womens teams will stay in accommodation designated by the Games organisers in Nagoya, described as comfortable and satisfactory. The 2026 Asian Games themselves are unusual. Unlike previous editions, there is no conventional single Athletes Village. The organisers are using a combination of hotels, temporary container-style accommodation and the Costa Serena cruise ship, which is serving as a floating village. More than 17,000 athletes and officials are expected, creating enormous pressure on accommodation in and around Nagoya. As per reports, the mens team would stay at the APA Hotel Nagoya Ekimae, while the womens team would be accommodated at the Meitetsu Grand Hotel. The larger concern was whether there would be satisfactory arrangements for the cricket ground, pitch, dressing rooms and other match-related facilities. Following an inspection, the Asian Cricket Council was satisfied with those arrangements. Guangzhou 2010 was the first Asian Games to include cricket. The participating cricket teams were housed within the official Asian Games Village, designed as a complete residential complex, with athletes and officials accommodated in dedicated residential buildings and provided with communal dining, transport, security and other Games services. The concept was simple: athletes from different sports lived within the same Games environment, ate in common dining facilities and travelled to competition venues through the official transport system. Cricket therefore entered the Asian Games not as a separately operated sport but as part of the wider multi-sport village system. Incheon 2014 followed broadly the same model. The main Athletes Village was at Guwol-dong, consisting of 22 apartment buildings, with accommodation units of different sizes. The village provided a 24-hour cafeteria, fitness facilities, a polyclinic, prayer rooms and other essential services. Athletes from different disciplines shared the same residential environment and the same basic Games infrastructure. By the time the Asian Games reached Hangzhou in 2023, the accommodation model had evolved. Hangzhou had a huge Athletes Village with residential, dining, leisure and cultural facilities, and it became one of the most visible symbols of the Games. The Indian mens cricket team stayed in a hotel in Hangzhou rather than being housed inside the Games Village. The players, however, visited the village, giving them an opportunity to see athletes from completely different sports living and competing under the same national flag. India captain Ruturaj Gaikwad spoke about the experience, explaining how the visit helped the players understand what it meant to represent India at the Asian Games. They interacted with athletes, watched other Indian teams compete and saw the effort and sacrifices involved in sports that generally receive far less attention than cricket. The experience underlined an important aspect of the Asian Games: cricket may be one of Indias biggest sports, but inside the Games it is only one part of a much larger sporting family. The real issue is whether cricket, with its enormous commercial strength and superstar players, should operate by a different set of rules at a multi-sport event. Now the players will have individual rooms and the necessary facilities, while the organisers retain their principle of treating participating sports on an equal footing. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories The hotel may not be five-star. But that perhaps misses the larger point. The Asian Games are not a normal cricket tour. They are a celebration of sport in its widest form. And for Indian cricket, learning to function within that environment is as much a part of the Asian Games experience as winning the gold medal. With the accommodation plan and cricket facilities settled, the focus now shifts to India defending its two titles.
Ridiculous: West Indies Great Michael Holding Targets Pakistan In Angry Imran Khan Rant
West Indies legend Michael Holding lashed out at the Pakistan government for the idiculous treatment of Imran Khan in prison.
BCCI Offered Solution To Women's Asia Cup Trophy Row. How Asian Cricket Body Replied
India had informed the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) that the Indian women's team would not attend the trophy presentation ceremony of the Women's Asia Cup 2026 if Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief Mohsin Naqvi handed over the cup.
Career-Threatening Issue: Ex-CSK Star Reveals How He Was Affected By Brutal Trolling
Veteran all-rounder Vijay Shankar revealed that he received heavy trolling after a Lanka Premier League (LPL) game, and shared the toll it took on him.
My Wife Started Shouting: India Great Slams Gautam Gambhir's Treatment Of Sooryavanshi, Samson
Former India cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth made his displeasure clear regarding the Indian team management's treatment of Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and Sanju Samson.
McCullum: Carse must 'get his house in order' before England return
Head coach's message of responsibility echoed by new team mentor Kevin Pietersen
ECB Security Delegation Lands In Pakistan To Check Preparations Ahead Of Tri-series
A security delegation of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has arrived in Pakistan to review arrangements ahead of England's upcoming tour for an ODI tri-nation series
'Saikia talking to Naqvi a mere routine interaction'
The Indian women's cricket team declined to accept the Asia Cup trophy from Asian Cricket Council chairman Mohsin Naqvi, a decision confirmed by BCCI vice-president Rajeev Shukla as a 'collective' stance. This follows a precedent set by the men's team after a terror attack, with the BCCI having communicated its position to the ACC in advance.
Mukesh Kumar Heads to Nottinghamshire for County Stint
India's in-form pacer Mukesh Kumar has signed with Nottinghamshire to play the final two matches of the 2026 English County Championship season. This marks his first domestic stint outside Bengal, offering him a chance to test his skills in new conditions after a successful Duleep Trophy campaign.
Andhra Pradesh Governor, CM congratulate archer Dhiraj on winning gold medal
Digital Desk | Amaravati, Sep 14 (IANS) Andhra Pradesh Governor S. Abdul Nazeer and Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu congratulated Indian archer Dhiraj Bommadevara on his historic gold medal victory at the Archery World Cup Final in Saltillo, Mexico. Dhiraj scripted history by becoming the first Indian male recurve archer to win gold at the prestigious World Cup Final, defeating Japans Nakanishi Junya in a thrilling shoot-off. The Governor said Dhiraj's remarkable achievement is a proud moment for India and Andhra Pradesh and wished him to win many more such medals in the future. From the archery grounds of Vijayawada to the top of the global podium in Mexico! History has been made! Heartiest congratulations to Dhiraj Bommadevara on becoming the FIRST Indian male archer to win individual Gold at the Archery World Cup Final! Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu posted on X. Today, the entire state of Andhra Pradesh and the nation are beaming with pride as you have ended a 16-year wait for India, sealing victory with a flawless 10 in the final shoot-off. Dhiraj, you have shown the world what relentless grit, focus and determination can achieve. You are an inspiration to the immense talent across our state. Wishing you immense success. Keep hitting the bullseye!, added the Chief Minister. Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan conveyed heartiest congratulations to Dhiraj Bommadevara on his historic triumph at the Archery World Cup Final 2026 in Saltillo, Mexico. With remarkable composure, precision and determination, Dhiraj defeated Japans Junya Nakanishi in a thrilling shoot-off to claim Recurve Mens individual gold, becoming the first Indian male recurve archer to win gold at the World Cup Final. His journey and dedication are especially inspiring, the Deputy CM said in a post on X. Hailing from Vijayawada, Andhra Pradesh, Dhiraj began his archery journey at a young age and has now risen to the pinnacle of the sport, carrying the Tricolour with distinction on the world stage. This is a landmark moment for Indian archery and a testament to the talent, discipline and determination of our athletes. Congratulations, Dhiraj. You have made Bharat proud and created a new chapter in Indian sporting history, added Pawan Kalyan. Former Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan Reddy also congratulated Dhiraj on the historic victory at the Archery World Cup Final and the India womens cricket team on winning the Asia Cup. What a golden week for Indian sports! From hitting historic bullseye to sweeping continental championships, our champions have filled our hearts with immense pride: Team India Women's Cricket Team, dominating the field with a flawless campaign to clinch the Women's Asian Cup crown. Dhiraj Bommadevara, making history as the first Indian male recurve archer to win a World Cup! Junior Men's & Women's Hockey Teams, for winning their respective AHF Junior Asia Cup 2026 trophies with sheer grit. Your relentless passion and hard work inspire millions. Wishing many more such victories in the future!, posted Jagan.
BCCI vice-president Rajiv Shukla on Monday cleared that BCCI had collectively decided that India women team would not receive Asia Cup trophy from Mohsin Naqvi. Indian women team won the final match against Sri Lanka with 72 runs on
Discussed About The Asia Cup Trophy, Decided Not To Take It From Naqvi, Says Shukla
President Rajeev Shukla: The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Vice-President Rajeev Shukla said the decision not to accept the Womens Asia Cup from Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President Mohsin Naqvi following their tournament victory in Dubai was something they decided after thorough discussion. At the Dubai International Stadium, India defeated Sri Lanka by 72 runs on Sunday to secure their record eighth Womens Asia Cup title. But Harmanpreet Kaur's squad declined to collect the trophy from Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistans interior minister and head of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The stance mirrored the decision taken by the Indian men's team after their 2025 Asia Cup victory over Pakistan. Following a 50-minute delay, Naqvi distributed runners-up medals to Sri Lanka before the presentation ceremony concluded abruptly. We discussed the trophy issue and decided not to take it from him. He didn't object to it, and we told our team. They gave whatever they had and left. There was no quarrel, no fight, no clash, and what (Devajit) Saikia ji said is right. When you sit in a match, everyone sits and meets there. It doesn't mean that you have to criticise them hugely. When you sit in a match, everyone sits there and meets all people from various countries, Shukla told reporters after returning from Dubai. The incident happened in the light of ongoing geopolitical tensions between the two countries, with the Indian men's side still yet to collect their 2025 Asia Cup trophy. BCCI secretary Devajit Saikia and Shukla were seen conversing cordially with Naqvi in the Royal Box during the match, as the visuals drew wide social media attention. We discussed the trophy issue and decided not to take it from him. He didn't object to it, and we told our team. They gave whatever they had and left. There was no quarrel, no fight, no clash, and what (Devajit) Saikia ji said is right. When you sit in a match, everyone sits and meets there. It doesn't mean that you have to criticise them hugely. When you sit in a match, everyone sits there and meets all people from various countries, Shukla told reporters after returning from Dubai. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories We had won the Asian Games. We have now won the Asia Cup. Our women have once again made us feel honoured. We will continue to win. Our team is going to Japan tomorrow, and we will win there as well. We have a lot of hope. We have a lot of enthusiasm in our women's team, and they will give a very good performance, he added. Article Source: IANS
Ishan Kishan Reveals How He Switches Formats
Ishan Kishan explained how he switches from long-format cricket to T20s within days, stressing quick adaptation, a calm mindset and understanding his role during partnerships with teammates.
England Board Reviews Security in Pakistan Ahead of Tri-Series
A security delegation from the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) has arrived in Pakistan to review arrangements for England's upcoming ODI tri-nation series tour. The delegation will inspect venues and meet officials to ensure security plans are robust for the series, which also involves Sri Lanka and runs from October 18 to 31.

