Pakistan To Take Government Advice On Playing India In Hockey World Cup
Hockey World Cup: Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) will take government advice on playing India in this year's FIH Men's Hockey World Cup in Belgium and the Netherlands, as the tension between the two countries has spilt over into sports, a news report said on Thursday. Arch-rivals India and Pakistan have been drawn in Pool D of the 16-team World Cup, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) announced while unveiling the draw of the event. However, Pakistan Hockey Federation (PHF) officials told Telecom Asia Sport that they will follow the government's decision on whether to take the field against India when they are scheduled to meet in a first-round match on August 19. The Men's Hockey World Cup is scheduled to be co-hosted by Belgium and the Netherlands from August 15 to 30. This will be Pakistan's first World Cup appearance since finishing 12th out of 16 teams in the event held in Bhubaneswar, India, in 2018. Pakistan had failed to qualify for the event in 2014 and 2022. Pakistan is a four-time world champion in field hockey, with their last title coming as far back as 1994. The PHF is under an interim arrangement whose management committee will meet on March 27 and will look into the matter. We know that Pakistan and India are drawn in the same pool, so that will be on the agenda in the working committee meeting on March 27, Olympian Samiullah told www.telecomasia.net. This is a serious matter, so we will have to take advice from the government. India has stalled bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, but the two countries play in multi-national events. But India refused to send the men's cricket team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy last year following a military conflict between the two countries, following a terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. Pakistan pulled out of last year's Asia Cup and Junior World Cup, both held in India, over political tension. India has stalled bilateral sporting ties with Pakistan since the 2008 Mumbai attacks, but the two countries play in multi-national events. But India refused to send the men's cricket team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy last year following a military conflict between the two countries, following a terror attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The last field hockey match between the two countries was in the Asian Games on September 30, 2022, when India won by a big margin of 10-2 at Hangzhou in China. India has won all five of its latest encounters against Pakistan. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Sam Curran Likely To Miss Tournament Due To Groin Injury, Ellis Set To Be Ruled Out
Indian Premier League: Rajasthan Royals (RR) have suffered a setback ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, with Englands all-rounder Sam Curran likely to miss the tournament due to a suspected groin injury. As per a report in ESPNCricinfo, Curran, 27, last featured for England in the Mens T20 World Cup on March 5, when the defending champions were beaten by eventual winners India in the semi-final at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. But he is now expected to miss IPL 2026 due to the groin injury for RR, the inaugural IPL champions. Curran was set to make his debut for RR after joining the franchise in November 2025 through a trade with Chennai Super Kings (CSK). Curran and India all-rounder Ravindra Jadeja were swapped to RR in exchange for wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, who went on to be named Player of the Tournament at the Mens T20 World Cup and will now turn out for CSK when the competition begins on March 28. On the other hand, five-time champions Chennai Super Kings (CSK) have suffered a big blow with pacer Nathan Ellis set to be ruled out of the competition after being unable to recover in time from a hamstring injury, the franchises CEO KS Viswanathan told reporters at an event in Chennai. Meanwhile, New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is set to miss the initial stage of the tournament with the Punjab Kings (PBKS) due to his prioritising spending time with his family. His Beau was born during the T20 World Cup, for which Ferguson took a short paternity leave before coming back for the business end of the competition. Just had a wee son, trying to spend as much time as I can at home and help the wife out. I'll have a few weeks off after this, before sort of heading to the later stages of the IPL and away for the winter. Meanwhile, New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson is set to miss the initial stage of the tournament with the Punjab Kings (PBKS) due to his prioritising spending time with his family. His Beau was born during the T20 World Cup, for which Ferguson took a short paternity leave before coming back for the business end of the competition. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Cricket, in general, is on the up, which is amazing. Sometimes the hard part is selecting when to take a rest. So, picking this time, which I think is pretty fair, considering the wife was looking after the baby when I was in the World Cup. So, no, really looking forward to some time at home and then back into some cricket after that, he told reporters ahead of the third T20I against South Africa at Eden Park in Auckland. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Pant, Shami, Mayank, Avesh, Mohsin Sweat Hard In LSGs Warm-up Game
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) intensified their Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 preparations by participating in a high-scoring practice match against UP T20 League side Kashi Rudras at the Sports Galaxy Cricket Academy on Thursday. Captain Rishabh Pant featured in batting roles for both the Super Giants side and the opposition team named KR XI as he looked to fine-tune his batting ahead of the upcoming season. Batting first, the Super Giants posted a formidable total driven by aggressive cameos from Pant, Arshin Kulkarni, and Shahbaz Ahmed. The Kashi Rudras' bowling attack had LSG pacers Mohammed Shami, Avesh Khan, and Mohsin Khan turning out for them. The trio tested the LSG batsmen with a mix of disciplined swing and sharp bouncers. In the second half of the warm-up game, the Kashi Rudras displayed similar firepower. Pant, continuing his stint at the crease alongside his LSG team-mate Mukul Chaudhary, Shubham, and Abhishek, cleared the ropes frequently to leave the local crowd delighted. On the bowling front for LSG, young pacer Mayank Yadav and wrist-spinner Digvesh Rathi were the standout performers, and were supported by economical spells from Shahbaz and Arjun Tendulkar. The match drew a significant number of young cricketers from the local academy, who gathered to cheer on them. Following the session, several LSG players interacted with the fans, signing autographs and participating in photo sessions. On the bowling front for LSG, young pacer Mayank Yadav and wrist-spinner Digvesh Rathi were the standout performers, and were supported by economical spells from Shahbaz and Arjun Tendulkar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score LSG will open their IPL 2026 campaign against Delhi Capitals on April 1 at the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow. The franchise previously had a pre-season camp in Chennai at the Coaching Beyond academy ground. Article Source: IANS
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Mens T20 World Cup Champions India Set To Play A Series Against Ireland In June
ICC Future Tours Programme: Mens T20 World Cup holders India will play a series against Ireland in June ahead of their white-ball tour of England, confirmed Graeme West, Director of High Performance at Cricket Ireland. The series is not part of the ICC Future Tours Programme (FTP), but it will serve as a warm-up for the England tour for India, where they will play five T20Is in Chester-le-Street, Manchester, Nottingham, Bristol, and Southampton, apart from three ODIs. India, led by Suryakumar Yadav, clinched the Mens T20 World Cup 2026 on home soil for a record third time earlier this month with a commanding 96-run win over New Zealand in a one-sided final at the Narendra Modi Stadium in Ahmedabad. West confirmed the fixtures while announcing that veteran batter Paul Stirling had stepped down as T20I captain following the teams disappointing campaign at the World Cup, ending in a group stage exit. Paul has been an outstanding leader, combining his wealth of playing experience with exceptional man-management skills. He will continue to captain the ODI squad with the initial goal to successfully navigate qualification and lead the team in the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup next October-November. With qualification secured for the T20 World Cup in 2028, Pauls decision to stand down as T20 captain provides the opportunity for the new captain to begin implementing their style and methodology, starting with the India Series in June, he said. Paul has been an outstanding leader, combining his wealth of playing experience with exceptional man-management skills. He will continue to captain the ODI squad with the initial goal to successfully navigate qualification and lead the team in the ICC Mens Cricket World Cup next October-November. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India last toured Ireland in August 2023 for a three-match T20I series, with all fixtures staged at the Malahide Cricket Ground. India were led by ace fast bowler Jasprit Bumrah and secured the series 20 after winning the opening two games, while the third and final match was washed out due to rain. Article Source: IANS
Sam Curran set to miss IPL 2026 with suspected injury
Curran moved from CSK to RR last November via a trade
Ferguson to miss early part of IPL 2026, committed to keep playing for New Zealand
The fast bowler plans to link up with Punjab Kings for the latter stages of the IPL
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Ashutosh Sharma does not think theres been any major transition in his playing career, but the right-handed batter firmly believes that visualisation and constant practice will fetch him more success when the pressure is high on him as a finisher for Delhi Capitals in IPL 2026. There is no such transition. I am enjoying playing cricket and enjoying playing with DC. I am having loads of fun while playing. The only difference is that in the first year, I was new. In the second year, the expectations of the team and everyone increase. So, there is a bit of pressure, but I am enjoying playing under pressure, Ashutosh, who hails from Ratlam in Madhya Pradesh, told IANS in an exclusive conversation ahead of IPL 2026 starting on March 29. After bursting onto the IPL scene with sizzling cameos for Punjab Kings in 2024, Sharma spent the 2025 season building his reputation as a finisher at DC -- scoring 204 runs in nine innings at a strike rate of 161. All of that began with an unbeaten 66 against Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), the side DC will face in Lucknow on April 1, as Ashutosh announced himself as a finisher of genuine quality. That innings, he says, was the product of a problem he identified and then quietly fixed. When I was playing for Punjab in the first year, I couldn't finish a lot of matches. I could finish only in very few games. After that year, I did an analysis and found that I am lacking in certain areas in this department. I then started applying those changes in domestic cricket games, like I have to finish the match and then come back to the dugout. Then, when I came to Delhi, I applied it there too, he said. The statistics bring out the value Ashutosh adds in the closing stages of IPL. He has batted predominantly in the final four overs of IPL innings, striking at 188 in that phase -- hitting a boundary on an average of every four balls and smashing 15 sixes. His numbers in chases are particularly striking: an average of 37.3 and a strike rate of 171, compared to 18.9 and 152 when batting first. DCs ongoing pre-season camps, which include simulated match scenarios, along with turning out for Railways in domestic cricket, have also honed Ashutoshs finishing skills. We play domestic cricket, so we get to learn a lot from it. I have just worked there, and when I was playing there, it was in my mind that I had to stay there till the end. I was applying there also, and this is it. We do the same planning in our pre-season camps - like we practice how to finish games. So, we still play matches in the camp, and that's the practice for me in how I have to finish. I am given that situation there -- like which situation will come in the actual match. So, by doing all that, you apply it in the match, and many times it is very much possible that it will happen that way, he said. The mental side of finishing, he adds, comes down to visualisation, something which many players do consistently. My mental preparation is that I visualise what situation is coming. So, I visualise this situation in front of me, and how do I get out of this situation? So, the key point is visualisation. Aside from the success he gets as a finisher, Ashutosh has issues to sort out against slow left-arm orthodox bowlers, who have dismissed him four times in six innings with a strike rate of just 75 in that matchup. In the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy 2025/26, Ashutosh scored 117 runs in six innings at a strike rate of 170 thus showing that his attacking instincts remain sharp, despite having three single-digit scores. Among the various influences Ashutosh encountered at DC, Kevin Pietersen - the franchise's mentor in 2025 - left a lasting impression on him. From KP, I just got to learn about hard work. Like I had asked, you have made so many runs in such big matches - so, what did you do? How did you get consistency? So, he just said that you believe in your ability, believe in your hard work. So, I got to learn all these things. Pietersen will not be in the dugout for IPL 2026, but Ashutosh didnt seem much bothered. No, it's a professional game - like today someone is there or in the future, they are not present. So it's normal in cricket. Outside of DC, Ashutosh is constantly guided by former Indian batter and long-time mentor Amay Khurasiya. We do talk. Like, whenever I doubt anything, apart from cricket also, I ask him, 'Sir, what can I do now? What has to be done?' So, yes, we talk to each other. DC finished outside the playoffs in 2025 despite a promising start, and Ashutosh promised the Axar Patel-led side would do everything to dish out dominating performances. The preparation is going well. We are well planned and well prepared, and we are not thinking about last year. It's a fresh start, and we are thinking that we have to dominate and enjoy cricket. All the young players will express themselves in the game. That's what we are thinking. After IPL 2025, Ashutosh took an unusual detour, which showcased his love for playing cricket. A stint at Wigan CC for the 2025 Liverpool and District Cricket Competition began with him hitting a 70-ball century after arriving in England on the morning of the game, following a visa mix-up. I love playing cricket a lot. So, I took a rest, and then I went there. I had an issue related to a flight (to reach Manchester). So, I went there and played the match directly. I enjoyed that moment also. Ashutosh comes on the back of being with India 'A' team for the Rising Asia Cup and T20 World Cup warm-up games, and receiving a call-up for it is still etched in his memory. Since childhood, every player's dream is to wear the India jersey. It was one of the best moments of my life. I got to learn a lot in terms of how the pressure of playing for the country is. The differences between playing for the country and the IPL are that the pressure of representing the country is a little different. So I got to learn all of this there. Life in IPL is very hectic for players - ad shoots, social media commitments, and media appearances - have become a routine part of the calendar. Ashutosh acknowledged that the DC think-tank have managed things well for him. Of course, it is a little tough because practice and shoots are around. But our team management is such that they balance out everything. They know that we don't have to focus on these things for a long time. Life in IPL is very hectic for players - ad shoots, social media commitments, and media appearances - have become a routine part of the calendar. Ashutosh acknowledged that the DC think-tank have managed things well for him. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So, it's just happiness for me. Then, seeing everyone happy after making them win the match and those joyful scenes happening there - that is my happiness, and yes, that's my goal for IPL 2026, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
New Zealand and South Africa jostle for series lead in high-scoring Auckland
NZ do not have a great record at Eden Park but will hope the experience of playing here will help them overcome the SA challenge
Parag: 'Samson irreplaceable like Kohli or Rohit'
Parag reflected on RR's missed opportunities in 2025 and his journey to captaincy, and highlighted the need to protect Sooryavanshi from outside noise
Paul Stirling Steps Down As Ireland T20I Captain, To Continue With ODI Leadership
Ireland T20I: Veteran batter Paul Stirling has stepped down as Ireland's T20I captain as the team begins planning for the upcoming Mens T20 World Cup in 2028. However, the 35-year-old will continue to lead the side in the ODIs. Stirling was appointed ODI and T20I captain in October 2023 and led Ireland at the recently concluded ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2026. Placed in Group B in the tournament held in India and Sri Lanka, Ireland finished fourth of the five teams, managing just three points. The European side registered only one win and suffered two losses in the group stage, and one match was washed out. The captaincy change will now result in Ireland Men having a dedicated captain for each of the three formats. With Andrew Balbirnie leading the side in Test, Stirling in ODIs, and the T20I captain will be announced later. It has been a tremendous honour to lead Ireland in this format and something I have been incredibly proud to do. Captaining your country is a privilege that carries great responsibility, and Im very grateful for the trust and support I have received during my time in the role, Stirling said in an official statement on Thursday. I would like to thank my teammates, the coaching staff, the wider support staff, and everyone involved with Cricket Ireland for the backing they have shown me throughout. Im also hugely appreciative of the support from fans who continue to follow and champion this team wherever we play. It has been a tremendous honour to lead Ireland in this format and something I have been incredibly proud to do. Captaining your country is a privilege that carries great responsibility, and Im very grateful for the trust and support I have received during my time in the role, Stirling said in an official statement on Thursday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 35-year-old played just two games in the T20 World Cup 2026 before ligament damage to his knee during Ireland's game against Australia drew a curtain on his campaign. Wicketkeeper Lorcan Tucker took the reins in Stirling's absence for the remainder of the tournament. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals Skipper Parag Targets Better Planning For Finishing Games
Indian Premier League: Rajasthan Royals captain Riyan Parag said the teams focus for the upcoming Indian Premier League (IPL) season would be on planning better and closing out matches, after narrow defeats led to them finishing at ninth place in IPL 2025. RR lost five matches in chases by margins of 11 runs or fewer, including a Super Over defeat against Delhi Capitals. To solve that issue, they have strengthened their finishing unit with the addition of all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, as well as trading in Donovan Ferreira, though hes recently returned to action after suffering a shoulder injury in this years SA20. This year, the focus is to plan better and finish games, which we couldnt do in the previous edition. I feel we have to plan well. Last year, there were about five or six games that we lost in the last over or even on the last ball. Had we been able to convert those, or had we calculated better, or even hit one more four or six, this question would not have been asked because we would have qualified (for the playoffs) by winning those matches. I think that in every T20 game, there are 3-4 decisions that you have to make that change the course of the game. I know in a 40-over game, there are a lot of small decisions, as well as major decisions like who will bat where, and what we will do after winning the toss. If we take those small decisions with strategy and planning, this year will be different, Parag said in a pre-season press conference on Thursday. Parag also spoke about the huge void left by Sanju Samsons departure to Chennai Super Kings (CSK), saying that replacing him in the side is akin to replacing batting stalwarts like Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli in the Indian team. If you talk about Sanju bhaiya, we never think about replacing the kind of player he is. We can perhaps look for someone with a similar skillset or have someone bat in his position. Its like there is no replacement for Virat Kohli or Rohit Sharma, and in the same way, there is no replacement for Sanju bhaiya because he is such a good player, Parag added. Parag, 24, has played an ODI and nine T20Is for India in 2024 and revealed he has been managing a shoulder injury since going under the knife in the same year. In 2024, when I debuted for the country, I played three back-to-back tours. I don't know if you saw that, but right before the Indian team went to South Africa, there was a small note at the bottom of the team. When the Indian squad came out, I was left out due to a shoulder injury. Since then, I have not been at 100 percent with my shoulder. That is why I have not been in the Indian squad, or not been considered for it, because I would not like to play cricket for my country that way. I am pretty sure the BCCI knows it as well that till the time my shoulder is 100 percent fit, I would not be considered for the Indian team. That is why I have been left out. As far as coming back to it, firstly, I think about having a great season in the IPL - collectively as a team, not really thinking a lot about individual things or stats, or I need to get 600-700 runs. For me, leading this franchise, having so many years with them, so many connections, emotions, and just love for the franchise, and all I am trying to do this year is try to win the IPL. I think we have a team that can win the IPL, and that is my sole focus right now. Once that is over, I can think about my personal things, which is coming back to the Indian team and whatnot after that - so that is the plan, he said. Parag signed off by saying he was prepared to contribute with the ball if required. I feel we spoke about this last year before this league started. It was finding the right match-up for the wicket and the teams that I can go against. For me, leading this franchise, having so many years with them, so many connections, emotions, and just love for the franchise, and all I am trying to do this year is try to win the IPL. I think we have a team that can win the IPL, and that is my sole focus right now. Once that is over, I can think about my personal things, which is coming back to the Indian team and whatnot after that - so that is the plan, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So yes, this year again, when I'm leading, I won't prompt myself that it was because of the number of bowling overs, but on assessing conditions and game situations, if I need to bowl a couple of overs, I will do that. Article Source: IANS
Stirling steps down as T20I captain; Ireland confirm T20I series against India
Stirling will, however, continue to lead Ireland's ODI side as they target qualification for next year's World Cup
'Tigers Are Ready': Delhi Capitals Unveil New Jersey Ahead Of IPL 2026
Indian Premier League: Delhi Capitals have unveiled their new jersey ahead of the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which is set to commence on March 28, 2026. Capitals have maintained their iconic red and blue colour, but the centre pattern has changed. It is now a mixture of blue and red strips running from top to bottom. According to the franchise, the design draws inspiration from the fierce tiger spirit that defines both the team and the city it represents. In a video released by the franchise on Thursday, Delhi Capitals women's team captain Jemimah Rodrigues joined hands with the men's team skipper Axar Patel in unveiling the new jersey. The video captures the spirit of the city and also features middle-order batter Nitish Rana, who was added to the squad in the IPL 2026 Auction. Speaking on the occasion, the CEO of Delhi Capitals, Sunil Gupta, said, This jersey celebrates our city, identity, and the fearless mindset we bring to the field. In a first for an IPL jersey launch campaign, we are also proud to feature our Womens team captain, Jemimah Rodrigues, as it reflects our commitment to building a unified Delhi Capitals culture across teams. Our Tigers in blue and red are ready, and we are looking forward to an exciting season ahead, he added. With India's T20 World Cup 2026 champion Axar Patel as the leader, the Delhi Capitals team have experienced Indian players like KL Rahul and Kuldeep Yadav, along with Australia's premier bowler Mitchell Starc, who would give a tough fight to the opposition. In a first for an IPL jersey launch campaign, we are also proud to feature our Womens team captain, Jemimah Rodrigues, as it reflects our commitment to building a unified Delhi Capitals culture across teams. Our Tigers in blue and red are ready, and we are looking forward to an exciting season ahead, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score According to the 20-match schedule released by the BCCI, Delhi Capitals will start their campaign against the Lucknow Super Giants at the Ekana Cricket Stadium in Lucknow on April 1. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: RR Have Addressed Quite A Few Of The Things Ahead Of Upcoming Season, Says Sangakkara
Indian Premier League: Rajasthan Royals (RR) head coach Kumar Sangakkara said the franchise had worked to strengthen several areas of the squad ahead of the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season, including batting depth and having more options in the spin bowling department. RR had a forgettable time in IPL 2025, suffering 10 defeats and winning only four games to finish ninth in the points table. After releasing all their spinners before the 2026 season auction, RR found a bankable Indian spinner in Ravi Bishnoi, as well as getting all-rounders Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran via a trade deal. Well, we needed to handle our skills outside in terms of a little bit of batting depth, local spin, all-rounders, and more options that we had to have in this bowling department -- so that we can also rejig the batting line-up. So, that's what we have tried to address. With the trades we have one and some of the auction buys, we managed to address the local spin department so that we can then start looking at different options in terms of overseas batters, overseas fast bowlers, and that gives us a little bit more flexibility. So, we have addressed quite a few of the things that we wanted to address, said Sangakkara, while replying to a query from IANS in the pre-season press conference on Thursday. The former Sri Lanka captain added that the focus now shifts to execution, as RR open their campaign against CSK at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on March 30. But again, we can have all the bases covered, everything done, and now it's really hard work where we try to get them all together, really believe in each other, and then really prepare well to start playing against the opposition. At the end of the day, the proof is in the pudding, and the strategy score is how they perform. But second to that, if everyone is here wanting to win, I do not doubt that -- whether it's Riyan and the team, or whether it's a different team, the real question is to try and really solve the how how are we going to do that? Then also, while doing that, I want this squad of players to have a wonderful time. You can't just concentrate on results and have just the results validate you. Players can have great seasons, good seasons, or bad seasons. However, that doesn't mean they're bad players, because the whole point of recruiting players is that we believe they're the best. Not just believe, the stats show that they are the best, and I want them to have a fantastic time with each other, really enjoy the ups and downs of the IPL, and really focus on playing the game at a time. I think once you try to break it down, the results will happen as they do, and we're hoping that the results will be more of them now than not before, he elaborated. On the appointment of Riyan Parag as RRs new captain post Samsons departure, Sangakkara said the decision was based on his leadership qualities rather than sticking to a regional identity. I am going to say one thing -- the homegrown part, whether he was from India or which part of India, there was nothing in our conversations about that. It was about finding the best person to captain and lead the part. I met Riyan when he was a teenager, and he is absolutely right. He has seen a lot, gone through a lot. The most striking thing for me was how reflective and mature he has become. So, Riyan Parag, the cricketer, I have always massively admired who he is. Even through the doubts, all I could see was where he could be, and that's right at the top. But more importantly, I really came to admire the person that Riyan Parag is. When we wanted to select a captain, once Sanju had decided to leave, it was really important that we explored all options. So, we had a short list of candidates, and we used a very strict interview process. We went through it, and Riyan knows it wasn't easy, he elaborated. The most striking thing for me was how reflective and mature he has become. So, Riyan Parag, the cricketer, I have always massively admired who he is. Even through the doubts, all I could see was where he could be, and that's right at the top. But more importantly, I really came to admire the person that Riyan Parag is. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It became very apparent that the right choice, the right person to lead Rajasthan Royals, was Riyan. We were extremely happy to make that decision. The most important thing is that the whole franchise, everybody involved in that process, the team, the coaches, everyone understands and backs it one hundred percent that the decision was made because Riyan Parag is absolutely the right candidate to captain and lead the Rajasthan Royals. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: After Doing The Quiet Work, Kumar Kushagra Ready To Deliver For Gujarat Titans
The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: When Kumar Kushagra didnt get a game for the Gujarat Titans (GT) in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025, he could have retreated into the comfortable anonymity of the franchises bench strength. Instead, he worked tirelessly in the nets, enhancing his skillsets in batting and keeping, and returned to Jharkhand to apply everything in a domestic season, which said that he was ready to do more heavy lifting through multi-tasking. The evidence arrived in the 2025/26 Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy, which Jharkhand won, and Kushagra, batting at number three, was central to that triumph by amassing 422 runs in ten games at an average of 161.68 and an average of 60.28, including four fifties. He would carry that rich vein of form in Ranji Trophy and Vijay Hazare Trophy matches, where Kushagra even led Jharkhand when Ishan Kishan wasnt present. The start of Kushagra having that power-play prowess in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy came from the learnings given by GTs director of cricket, Vikram Solanki. I enjoyed it because I was getting good batting practice and under good coaches like, Vikram Solanki sir helped me a lot when I was there in GT doing batting in the nets and in practice matches. He helped me a lot with batting like how a specialist batter in white-ball cricket performs, what he does, and what a three-format player would do. So there was a very good contribution from GTs side, recalled Kushagra in an exclusive conversation with IANS, facilitated by JSW Sports. What also helped Kushagra, who previously played three games for Delhi Capitals (DC), was that his issues against facing the new ball were ironed out by Solanki at GT. Against the new ball, I was not having exactly any issues. But I was not able to play well against it because I was batting at number five or six. Even when I was practising while I was back home, I was not getting that many opportunities to practice against a new ball. So when I joined the GT camp, he told me directly that whenever you bat, it will be against a new ball, and don't even think about the old ball. So that took me to a different mindset that I have to use power-play well, hit the balls, and in the gaps as well. I was just asking him how I can just hit the gaps also, and just not think about hitting the ball over the fielders. So we talked a lot about that, and whatever he told me, I did it in the nets, and it was displayed in the Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy -- so he was also very happy, he elaborated. Behind the stumps as well, Kushagras education continued via former keepers Parthiv Patel and Matthew Wade. Parthiv sir helped me a lot. If you talk about keeping against the spinners, he was the specialist. He was telling me how to move, especially when a bowler like Rashid Khan, who has bowled so many good balls, is bowling. He is unpredictable when you are keeping and while batting as well. So he helped me a lot by saying that you should keep more against Rashid Khan -- look at the ball he is bowling and understand it. If he plays in a match, you have to understand it. He was very much into that, while Matthew Wade was mostly focused on the fast bowlers, while he was hitting into the catchers and all. So both of them were very different style coaches, and they helped me a lot as I was able to tick both the boxes while working with both of them, he explained. Aside from the priceless education Kushagra got at GT, he also got a sneak peek into the teams family-like environment and how observing head coach Ashish Nehra led to him maturing in his demeanour as a player. Yes, you can say that because while staying with the players there, everyone was very helpful. Even in the coaches, if you see Ashish Nehra, he was so funny from the outside. But when you are going inside the ground, he becomes so intense. So I think I learnt a lot about how to stay outside, while being focused inside, irrespective of the performance. Like how you are performing, what should be your focus inside, and what should be your nature outside. So there were many things to learn about over there. The Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy win sits at the centre of this story, not merely as a result but as proof of Kushagra applying everything he had absorbed at GT in 2025, including when he was shifted up the order to maximise the power-play alongside Kishan. I expected that they would tell me that I would open the inning. But when the combination didn't work out, they told me that I would bat at number three. I asked them what they were expecting from me, and they told me that if I use power play well, it would be great for the team. They gave me a clarification in my mind that this is my role, and I felt very good about it. I was talking to the team's management and secretary Saurabh Tiwary, and yes, it was a very good tournament, and it was even more fun when we won. I was happy, and we were happier in winning the tournament because we used to perform well every year. But we were not doing that much so that we could win a tournament. So this tournament that we won, I had a very good role in it. My team and the coaches had a good role in promoting me from number five to number three, he said. Kushagras tryst with the leadership role also went well, something which fills him with gratitude. The domestic season was much better compared to the last two seasons. I aim to take my team to a higher level than what they were before, and I got that platform, and they thought I was capable enough to become a captain. So they gave me the captaincy, and I was doing it when Ishan Kishan was not there. In the Vijay Hazare tournament, I did captaincy in four to five games, and our performance was good. So, I feel grateful. Kushagra was back at GTs short pre-season camp in Udaipur in January before the second leg of the Ranji Trophy began, and to his happiness, he found the intensity top-notch. Not many players and coaches were there, so it was a short camp, but it was very much intense - keeping, fielding, and batting were very good. At that time, it was very cold -- so we were practicing in the morning, and then we had a camp. So I think I was there for like 2-3 days, I had a lot of fun there, and then again, I'm pretty much excited to join the team again. Though many things in Kushagras life remain the same, one thing that is still unchanged is the practice he does with his father in Jamshedpur before going for any big tournament. The mindset as a player has changed a lot, though not as a human being. You try to improve a little bit every year, and every year you are getting closer to entering the Indian team - that thing stays in the mind because you do a lot of IPL camps. Though many things in Kushagras life remain the same, one thing that is still unchanged is the practice he does with his father in Jamshedpur before going for any big tournament. Also Read: Live Cricket Score With Jos Buttler shaping as GTs primary keeper-batter, it means Kushagra will need to bide his time before getting the chance to unleash his fireworks. But having helped Jharkhand end their Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy drought, Kushagras immediate target is to win an IPL title with GT and, beyond that, a place in the Indian team. If all of this materialises, then that period of education in GTs nets in 2025 will prove to be career-defining. Article Source: IANS
England Captain Sciver-Brunt Returns Home From SA Training Camp Due To Family Reasons
T20 World Cup: England Women's cricket team captain Nat Sciver-Brunt has left the intra-squad training series and returned home due to family reasons. Sciver-Brunt is expected to miss the remainder of the tour, which was seen as a key practice for the upcoming ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 in England from June 12 to July 5. Nat Sciver-Brunt has returned home from South Africa for family reasons. It is expected shell play no further part in the tour, the England Cricket Board said in a statement. England had originally planned for the squad to travel to the UAE earlier in March. However, the trip was cancelled after the security situation in the region deteriorated following US-Israeli air strikes on Iran and subsequent retaliatory strikes by Iran across the Gulf. England Women then travelled to Pretoria for an extended training programme and a five-match intra-squad T20 series scheduled to run from March 10 to 27. England have not played any competitive cricket since October and do not have international fixtures scheduled this winter. For the camp, the players were divided into two squads that were competing against each other in the T20 series. Team Heyhoe Flint, named after England great Rachael Heyhoe Flint, is captained by England vice-captain Charlie Dean. The squad includes experienced players such as former skipper Heather Knight and leading spinner Sophie Ecclestone. England assistant coach Luke Williams will guide the side. For the camp, the players were divided into two squads that were competing against each other in the T20 series. Also Read: Live Cricket Score England are placed in a tough Group 2 in the Women's T20 World Cup. They will face the West Indies, New Zealand, Sri Lanka and Ireland in the group stage. Article Source: IANS
Saurav Ghosal Named Sports Commissioner Of World Premier Squash
World Premier Squash: India's decorated squash player Saurav Ghosal has been appointed as Sports Commissioner of World Premier Squash (WPS), a new global league which counts down to its first edition this August. As Sports Commissioner for World Premier Squash, Ghosal will set and oversee the leagues complete sporting framework, spanning competition format, player qualification pathways and officiating standards. The appointment comes as squash approaches the most significant milestone in its history. The sport makes its Olympic debut at the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games (LA28), a moment driving global investment, rising participation, and renewed commercial attention across the sport. Ghosal previously served as the Mens President of the Professional Squash Association (PSA) and co-chair of the joint Athletes Commission of the PSA and World Squash, the sports global governing bodies. He is the only male player in history from India to reach the top 10 on the PSA World Rankings with 11 titles, 9 Asian Games medals, and 20 years of elite competition to his name. World Premier Squash combines elite professional competition with an open global pathway using multimodal AI on the edge. Of the 24 players in the league, including reserves, 8 will be elite professionals. He is the only male player in history from India to reach the top 10 on the PSA World Rankings with 11 titles, 9 Asian Games medals, and 20 years of elite competition to his name. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The best squash players in the world came through communities, clubs and courts far from the spotlight. World Premier Squash honours that by using AI-enabled challenges on the FSP platform to connect every corner of the global squash family, and giving the sports next great player, wherever they are, a genuine path to the top, said Ghosal. Article Source: IANS
Nat Sciver-Brunt heads home from South Africa for family reasons
England captain had led Team Brittin to victory in the first of five intra-squad trial games in Pretoria
T20 World Cup: Australia vice-captain Ashleigh Gardner is revisiting the fearless approach that defined her early career as the team prepares for the ICC Womens T20 World Cup 2026 in England. The all-rounder is aiming to regain her top form ahead of a marquee tournament, while reaching a personal milestone of 100 T20 Internationals. Gardner will become the seventh Australian woman to reach the century of T20Is when the team faces the West Indies in St Vincent. The milestone comes at a crucial juncture for Australia, who will be eager to reverse recent semi-final disappointments, a loss to hosts India in the ICC Womens World Cup 2025 and a similar exit against South Africa in the 2024 Womens T20 World Cup. I was someone that had no fear, and I guess as I've gotten older and more mature, I've gained more fear in the way that I approach life and just cricket in general, Gardner told Cricket Australia. It's trying to harness a little bit of that, not stepping over the line to just being completely reckless, but for me, the brand of cricket that I play, I try and take the game on. So when I'm under the pump, really trying to harness that and channel that. That's when I'm playing my best cricket, she added. The 28-year-old acknowledged the challenge of translating her stellar ODI performances, three centuries and three fifties at an average of 45.94 since early 2024, into the fast-paced T20 format. In this format, my role within the middle-order is challenging at times. You might come in when the team's on top, or you come in when we're not on top. It's summing up the situation really quickly, and finding my gears really fast, and it's probably something that I haven't done overly well in this format for a prolonged period of time, Gardner said. She has averaged 25.11 in T20Is while playing in the middle-order for Australia. Gardner sees the upcoming West Indies series as final preparation for the World Cup, drawing parallels to the teams transformative period following the 2017 World Cup. If I look back at that 2017 World Cup that we lost, we were just playing really timid cricket, and then we had that evolution of, 'let's try and take the game on, let's be really fearless'. We've bought into that ever since then, and it's almost an unwritten rule when you come into this side, that's the brand of cricket that you play, she noted. Gardner sees the upcoming West Indies series as final preparation for the World Cup, drawing parallels to the teams transformative period following the 2017 World Cup. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I think just having a lot of belief and confidence that the personnel that are here are the right people to win those trophies. She had her own little imprint on the team through that Indian series, but now that she takes full reins, I'm super excited to see where she's going to take the team, she added. Article Source: IANS
'The Moment We've Waited For,' CSK Welcome 'Chettan' Samson In Chennai Ahead Of IPL 2026
WORLD CHAMPION SANJU SAMSON IS: India's World Cup-winning star Sanju Samson reached Chennai on Thursday to join the Chennai Super Kings camp ahead of his Indian Premier League (IPL) outing with the five-time champions. The IPL 2026 is set to begin on March 28. CSK's social media handle shared an image of Samson's arrival, writing, Chettan in Chennai. In another post, it shared, The moment we've waited for! WORLD CHAMPION SANJU SAMSON IS HERE. The franchise also shared a video of Samson arrival with a caption, Chennai feels Sanjus aura. CSK will play their campaign opener against Samsons former franchise, Rajasthan Royals, from whom they traded the wicketkeeper-batter in place of Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran. Samson is in great form and is very likely to open the batting lineup alongside Indias U-19 World Cup-winning captain Ayush Mhatre to provide fiery starts for the franchise during the IPL season. CSK are entering the new season with a young team. Adding Samson is sure to strengthen CSK. It's well known that Samson has expressed his passion for the franchise and his wish to play for it. Since the transfer deal was finalised, with Jadeja and Curran moving to Rajasthan Royals, and Samson to CSK, the fans of the Yellow Army have supported him wholeheartedly. Samson is expected to hold a crucial position at the top of the batting order and could also assume wicketkeeping duties from MS Dhoni in one or two matches, should there be any injury issues with the 44-year-old veteran. Since the transfer deal was finalised, with Jadeja and Curran moving to Rajasthan Royals, and Samson to CSK, the fans of the Yellow Army have supported him wholeheartedly. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Expressing gratitude for the support he received from the Chennai audience during his stint in the T20 World Cup, Samson said, I was surprised by the support I got from the Chennai crowd during the World Cup. I think I am lucky. Maybe they see me as one of them. I will give my best for CSK. Article Source: IANS
Jos Buttler Ready To Continue England Career Despite 'Poor' T20 World Cup
Jos Buttler is refusing to accept his England career is over despite admitting he had a poor tournament at the recent T20 World Cup. Widely regarded as one of the outstanding white-ball batsmen of his generation, Buttler managed just 87 runs in eight innings at the tournament as England reached the semi-finals before losing to co-hosts and eventual champions India. Obviously I had a poor tournament, which is disappointing, Buttler, who remains on an England and Wales central contract, said on his For the Love of Cricket podcast with former England fast bowler Stuart Broad. But I have been playing some of the best cricket of my (career) in recent years, so hopefully I can get back to playing my best. I certainly have ambitions (to play for England again), but no longer being a captain, I am not a selector and whatever, so what will be, will be. Buttler, 35, is set to play for Gujarat Titans in the upcoming Indian Premier League and hopes time away after the World Cup up the mountains in France with his family will leave him feeling reinvigorated. I couldn't have been further away from cricket, which for me at the time was just perfect, said Buttler. It is exactly what I needed. Obviously the tournament didn't go personally how I would have liked it to go, and I just felt like I needed some space from cricket and not to think about the game, and I could not have been further away from cricket where I was in that week. Buttler, a member of England's 2019 one-day international World Cup-winning team and also the skipper for their T20 triumph in Australia three years later, added: It was really refreshing - I really enjoyed it, a complete sort of release, and slowly but surely, I would say at the start of this week, (I am) just starting to reflect a bit and have a few thoughts about what is important to me and my cricket, and why it probably didn't go quite as I would've liked. There's elements that I actually don't really know exactly. For all your best intentions and hard work and efforts to perform, it just didn't work, and sometimes that is OK as well. Also Read: Live Cricket Score That is something I have had to realise. It wasnt for a lack of effort, it just didn't quite happen.
Indian Premier League: Head coach Kumar Sangakkara addressed the players and motivated them with his words as the Rajasthan Royals began preparations for the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which will commence on March 28. Sangakkara explained his inclusive approach to coaching, where every player can speak about their concerns and give suggestions. According to the coach, the preparation camp gives a better opportunity to the team management and the players to know each other and work towards a common goal. Okay, guys, some of us have been here before, some for many years, some for one year, some of you are new, right? So first things first, it's a great opportunity to just start talking to each other and getting to know each other, right? That's how we start into a season. Number two is to ease yourself into practice, right? We'll introduce ourselves one-on-one tomorrow, but talk to the coaches, tell us what you need, we will tell you what you need or what we need from you, not what you need, but what we need from you, Sangakkara said in a video released by Rajasthan Royals on X. It's always a nice collaboration, it's a partnership, right? That's how we all do things, okay? I like a relaxed attitude, I like people having fun, I like people talking, smiling, but when you're doing work, remember we all need to get something out of the time we're here, he added. Former Sri Lankan batter advised the team to use the practice time smartly and also remained hopeful for an amazing season with a team having some new faces. Use it smartly; you don't need to practice too long, you don't need to be too short, you need to be right so that everyone gets what they want and what they need, but it's really great to see you, he said. I look forward to a wonderful season. I look forward to getting to know all of you, and we're going to be a tight, tight group. Okay, that's all I have, man, Sangakkara concluded. Use it smartly; you don't need to practice too long, you don't need to be too short, you need to be right so that everyone gets what they want and what they need, but it's really great to see you, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The inaugural champions will then have back-to-back home matches in Guwahati against the Mumbai Indians (MI) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) on April 7 and 10, respectively. Article Source: IANS
John Mooney named Delhi Capitals' fielding coach for IPL 2026
John Mooney becomes the first from Ireland to be part of an IPL franchise's coaching staff
LA Knight Riders to play MLC 2026 matches at own venue in Pomona, California
No MLC team has had its own venue before this, and the update comes even as preparations are on for cricket's reintroduction to the Olympic Games in 2028, in Los Angeles
'He Had Become The Face Of RR: Faf Calls Samson's Move To CSK Massive Thing For IPL
Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) Faf du Plessis reflected on the impact of Sanju Samsons departure, describing the India wicketkeeper-batsman as the face of the franchise for the last decade, and believes that RR losing Samson is a massive thing for the fans and the tournament. Samson was traded in from RR to Chennai Super Kings (CSK) ahead of the auction in a major move as the five-time champions traded out Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran to Rajasthan. The two sides will now face off in their respective campaign openers on March 30 at the Barsapara Stadium in Guwahati. If I look at the IPL and the teams, the iconic teams we see around the league, all of them have one marquee Indian player in common, someone who has been the face of the franchise for a period of time, Rohit Sharma, MS Dhoni, Virat Kohli. And Sanju Samson, for me, was that guy at Rajasthan Royals. Yes, he's of a newer generation, but he had become the face of that franchise. If I think of Rajasthan Royals, I think Sanju Samson. So, the fact that they've lost that face, I think, is a massive thing for the fans, for the IPL, and for the tournament, because he's played such a big role there, du Plessis told JioStar. Du Plessis also highlighted the challenge facing young opener Yashasvi Jaiswal, who will have to adjust to new responsibilities in the batting line-up. The thing with Yashasvi Jaiswal is that he's had Sanju Samson, who has been such a huge, consistent performer within that batting line-up. So, when you have that consistency of runs from Sanju, it allows you to play your game. Now, you take that away, all of a sudden, people will look at him with more responsibility, he said. And for a player like him, you don't want him thinking about responsibility, you want him thinking, 'I want to take the game on. I want to hit as many sixes as possible.' So there's a learning curve that's going to come into his career this season, 'Am I true to the game that I've always played, or do I take up the senior player role to score the bulk of the runs?' So it'll be interesting to see how that goes. I think he'll still play in the way that he does. It would be silly not to, because he's such an attacking player, he added. The thing with Yashasvi Jaiswal is that he's had Sanju Samson, who has been such a huge, consistent performer within that batting line-up. So, when you have that consistency of runs from Sanju, it allows you to play your game. Now, you take that away, all of a sudden, people will look at him with more responsibility, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So the versatility that you get from Sam Curran is very crucial for the team because he gives you an over in the powerplay, bowls his cutters in the middle, and is really good at death bowling, whether with yorkers or slower balls. So you're getting a lot of skill sets there. Also, he's bringing experience and captaincy support to a young captain in that dressing room. The more leaders you have around you, the better the support will be for Riyan, he added. Article Source: IANS
'Never Seen PCB This Weak In My Life': Ahmed Shehzad Slams PCB For Lack Of Control
Pakistan Cricket Board: Former cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has strongly criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), calling it a weak board and blaming it for giving too much power to a small group of people, which he believes has hurt the teams performance. Pakistan have failed to reach the knockout stage in their last four ICC tournaments, leading to growing criticism of both the players and the board. They crashed out of the Super 8s stage in the recently concluded T20 World Cup 2026. Whenever you talk about any player, they start spinning stories. I have never seen the Pakistan Cricket Board this weak in my life, as weak as this PCB is. They have power, right? But in their decision-making, they appear to be kneeling before their players. This PCB cant do anything, Shehzad said on his YouTube channel. The work they were supposed to do, bringing in new faces, they didnt. What they do is, after every event, they try to pull a new trick, but the public has now caught their pattern, he added. Shehzad also questioned the PCBs focus on promoting a few players through the Pakistan Super League (PSL), saying it created an unhealthy system. The calibre of your players is not at that level, which was built up as a brand by the Pakistan Cricket Board for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) 5 and 7 years ago. These 6-8 boys they are also the face of the PSL. They are also the face of our Pakistan team. Will they change Pakistans destiny? said Shehzad. He added that the board gave these players sponsorships, leadership roles, and too much control, but did not get results in return. You provided all the sponsorships to those boys, endorsed them, and invested money in them. You gave them captaincies in the PSL, right? You made them the thumb of the Pakistan team. You handed over the entire Pakistan cricket team to those 6 boys and their agents. And what have they done now? The fire they have lit in the jungle, the fun and parties they have had, the pockets they have filled, the enjoyment they have had they havent given Pakistan any wins by doing so, he added. He also criticised the players for not taking responsibility despite poor performance, which led to the country's downfall in cricket. You provided all the sponsorships to those boys, endorsed them, and invested money in them. You gave them captaincies in the PSL, right? You made them the thumb of the Pakistan team. You handed over the entire Pakistan cricket team to those 6 boys and their agents. And what have they done now? The fire they have lit in the jungle, the fun and parties they have had, the pockets they have filled, the enjoyment they have had they havent given Pakistan any wins by doing so, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, Pakistan's poor stint continued after the T20 World Cup 2026 as they lost the three-match ODI series against a lower-ranked Bangladesh, adding more to their humiliation. Article Source: IANS
Lets Welcome New Beginnings With New Dreams: Sachin, Suryakumar Extend Gudi Padwa Wishes
T20 World Cup: Former India cricketer Sachin Tendulkar and Indias T20 World Cup-winning captain Suryakumar Yadav extended heartfelt wishes to their friends and family on the occasion of Gudi Padwa, marking the Marathi New Year. Tendulkar shared his festive wishes on X, addressing his fans and wellwishers. Wishing you and your family a very Happy Gudi Padwa and Marathi New Year. May this New Year bring happiness, joy, and prosperity this is my heartfelt prayer. Indian T20I captain Suryakumar Yadav also joined in the celebrations, posting warm greetings to his followers. Lets welcome new beginnings along with new dreams. Wishing everyone a very Happy Gudi Padwa! he wrote on his social media handle, capturing the festive spirit of renewal and optimism shared across Maharashtra and beyond. New year. New energy. One connection. We are connected to health, to tradition, to you. Happy Ugadi & Gudi Padwa, shared ex-spinner Harbhajan Singh on X. VVS Laxman said, One New Year. Many traditions. Happy Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Cheti Chand, Navreh, Sajibu Nongma Panba. A celebration of unity in diversity. Wishing all new beginnings & endless possibilities. India batter Ajinkya Rahane shared, Heartfelt wishes on Gudi Padva! May the new year bring joy, success, and prosperity into your life. Former India spinner and coach Anil Kumble also shared warm wishes on social media, On this auspicious occasion of Ugadi, heartfelt New Year wishes to you and your family. India batter Ajinkya Rahane shared, Heartfelt wishes on Gudi Padva! May the new year bring joy, success, and prosperity into your life. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Ugadi, Gudi Padwa, Cheti Chand, Navreh, and Sajibu Nongma Panba are diverse, regional celebrations of the Hindu New Year falling on the same day (Chaitra Shukla Pratipada), usually in March-April. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Delhi Capitals Appoint Former Ireland All-rounder John Mooney As Fielding Coach
ICC Cricket World Cups: Delhi Capitals have roped in former Ireland all-rounder John Mooney as their new fielding coach ahead of the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, which will commence on March 28. He will join an experienced support staff of Delhi Capitals, which includes Hemang Badani as head coach, former Indian pacer Munaf Patel (bowling coach) and former England player Ian Bell (assistant coach). Venugopal Rao is the team's director in IPL 2026. Mooney, who holds Level 3, 2, and 1 coaching certificates from the England Cricket Board, took over from Gnaneswara Rao and Anton Roux, who both departed following the conclusion of 2025 season. The former Irish player had previously served as the Afghanistan fielding coach from 2018 to 2019, when they made their Test debut in India. He had also worked with the West Indies men's team in 2019 and has been a temporary coach for the Ireland women's team since January this year. He has represented Ireland in 91 international matches, including three ICC Cricket World Cups (2007, 2011, and 2015) and two ICC Men's T20 World Cups. A left-hand batter and right-arm quick during his playing days, 43-year-old Mooney played 64 ODIs and 27 T20Is for Ireland from 2006 to 2015. He had famously hit the winning runs in Ireland's historic win over England in the 2011 World Cup in Bengaluru. Delhi suffered a significant blow ahead of the start of the season as their mentor, Kevin Pietersen, withdrew from the tournament. A left-hand batter and right-arm quick during his playing days, 43-year-old Mooney played 64 ODIs and 27 T20Is for Ireland from 2006 to 2015. He had famously hit the winning runs in Ireland's historic win over England in the 2011 World Cup in Bengaluru. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Delhi Capitals nearly missed a playoff berth in the last season. They finished in fifth position by registering seven wins in 14 matches. They have never won an IPL trophy, and the team will look to end their quest in the 19th season. Article Source: IANS
Dinesh Karthik And Wife Dipika Pallikal Welcome Baby Girl Raaha
World Doubles Squash Championships: Former India wicketkeeper-batter Dinesh Karthik and squash star Dipika Pallikal have announced the arrival of their baby girl, Raaha Pallikal Karthik, marking a heartwarming expansion of their family. The couple shared the news in a social media announcement that expressed their gratitude and joy as they introduced their baby girl as the younger sister of their twin sons, Kabir and Zian. With blessings in our hearts and gratitude beyond words, we joyfully welcome our precious girl into this world. Kabir and Zian are thrilled to introduce their baby sister, Raaha Pallikal Karthik. Love, Dipika & Dinesh The couple tied the knot on August 25, 2015 in traditional Hindu and Christian ceremonies and welcomed their twins in 2021. Karthik, a former Indian international cricketer, enjoyed a distinguished career behind the stumps and with the bat before transitioning into coaching and commentary roles following his retirement from competitive play. Over more than two decades, he featured in Tests, ODIs, and T20 Internationals, and later served as a mentor and batting coach for Royal Challengers Bengaluru in the Indian Premier League (IPL). Dipika, meanwhile, etched her name in Indian squash history as the first Indian woman to break into the worlds top10 rankings. A recipient of the Padma Shri and multiple medals at Commonwealth and Asian Games, she remains one of the countrys most decorated athletes. She last competed at the Hangzhou Asian Games in October 2023, where she secured a gold medal in mixed doubles. After returning from maternity leave in early 2022, she made a successful comeback, capturing two titles at the World Doubles Squash Championships and earning a bronze at the 2022 Commonwealth Games. Dipika, meanwhile, etched her name in Indian squash history as the first Indian woman to break into the worlds top10 rankings. A recipient of the Padma Shri and multiple medals at Commonwealth and Asian Games, she remains one of the countrys most decorated athletes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The support staff also features Richard Halsall as assistant coach; Malolan Rangarajan as spin bowling coach and player identification manager; Basu Shanker as strength and conditioning coach; Evan Speechly and James Pipe as the team physios; Navnita Gautam as the athletic therapist; and Dr Shikha Dhaundiyal as the team doctor. Article Source: IANS
Wazir Akbar Khan Hospital: Representatives of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), along with players from the national squad, visited hospitals in Kabul to check on those hurt in an alleged Pakistani airstrike targeting a medical facility. ODI and Test captain Hashmatullah Shahidi, along with teammates Gulbadin Naib and Qais Ahmad, went to Wazir Akbar Khan Hospital and Kabul Emergency Hospital, where they met with the injured, spoke to survivors, and conveyed their solidarity with the victims and their families. The hospital visits took place against a backdrop of rising frustration within Afghanistans cricket community, fuelled by reports of heavy civilian losses in Kabul. ACB officials and members of the #AfghanAtalan lineup paid a heartfelt visit to those injured in the recent airstrike carried out by the Pakistan Military Regime, offering support and condolences at Kabul Emergency and Wazir Akbar Khan Hospitals. Led by CEO Naseeb Khan, they inquired about the injureds health, condemned the attack, and expressed condolences. They assured aid would be organised and urged support from citizens and businesses during this difficult time, ACB wrote on X while sharing pictures from the visit. ACB officials and members of the #AfghanAtalan lineup paid a heartfelt visit to those injured in the recent airstrike carried out by the Pakistan Military Regime, offering support and condolences at Kabul Emergency and Wazir Akbar Khan Hospitals Led by CEO Naseeb Khan, they inquired about the injureds health, condemned the attack, and expressed condolences. They assured aid would be organized and urged support from citizens and businesses during this difficult time, it shared in another post. Earlier, the ACB had strongly condemned the Pakistani airstrike that allegedly killed over 400 people and injured at least 250, according to Taliban officials and local media. Calling the tragedy deeply heartbreaking, the board said what should have been a time of celebration during Ramadan and ahead of Eid turned into mourning for many Afghan families. Led by CEO Naseeb Khan, they inquired about the injureds health, condemned the attack, and expressed condolences. They assured aid would be organized and urged support from citizens and businesses during this difficult time, it shared in another post. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, Afghan cricketers Rashid Khan and Naveen-ul-Haq condemned the reported strikes, calling attacks on civilian infrastructure a war crime and urging the United Nations and human rights organisations to investigate and hold those responsible accountable. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: Rajasthan Royals Captain Riyan Parag Unveils New Jersey For Upcoming Season
Chennai Super Kings: Inaugural IPL champions Rajasthan Royals unveiled their new jersey for the upcoming 2026 season on Wednesday, with newly-appointed captain Riyan Parag, teenaged batting sensation Vaibhav Sooryavanshi and leg-spinner Ravi Bishnoi among those present to showcase it. The 2008 IPL winners announced the reveal of their jersey in their usual blue and pink colours on Instagram with the caption: New look, same Halla Bol. Jersey: RRevealed. RR will begin their IPL 2026 season against five-time winners Chennai Super Kings at the ACA Stadium in Guwahati on March 30. The franchise will play their first three home matches in Guwahati - their alternate home ground and Parags hometown - with fixtures at their primary home venue, the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, to be confirmed whenever the BCCI announces the remainder of the tournaments schedule. The opening fixture against Chennai Super Kings will carry an added edge, with Ravindra Jadeja and Sam Curran, now RR players, set to face their former side. RR will then travel to Ahmedabad for their first away game of the season, where they take on 2022 winners Gujarat Titans at the Narendra Modi Stadium on April 4. The franchise will play their first three home matches in Guwahati - their alternate home ground and Parags hometown - with fixtures at their primary home venue, the Sawai Mansingh Stadium in Jaipur, to be confirmed whenever the BCCI announces the remainder of the tournaments schedule. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Parags elevation to RRs captaincy came after the exit of Sanju Samson, who moved to CSK in a trade that brought Jadeja and Curran to RR. Parag, 24, briefly captained RR in the 2025 season when Samson missed eight matches through injury, though the side won only two of those games under his leadership. Article Source: IANS
Suraj Kumar Chand: India's Om Semwal came up with a fine performance to win a five-game thriller in the men's section while Tanvi Khanna won her match in straight games in women's section on a mixed day for the hosts in the Indian Open 2026 squash championship that burst into action with high drama on Day 1 at the Cricket Club of India (CCI) courts at Brabourne Stadium in Mumbai on Wednesday. On an action-packed opening day headlined by a series of closely fought encounters, Om Semwal defeated Sebastian Salazar 3-2 (11-6, 11-9, 8-11, 10-12, 19-17) while Tanvi Khanna beat Maya Weishar 3-0 (15-13, 12-10, 7-11, 11-4). The hosts suffered some setbacks too, with top male player Suraj Kumar Chand, Unnati Tripathi, and Nirupama Dubey stumbling on the first day. Semwal delivered the standout performance of the day in a nail-biting five-game thriller against Sebastian Salazar from Mexico. In a match that swung both ways, Semwal held his nerve in the decisive moments to clinch a hard-fought 3-2 victory. Equally compelling was Egypts Yassin Shohdy, who staged a remarkable comeback after losing the opening set 10-12. Showing resilience and composure, Shohdy edged a tight second game 13-11 against Frances Manuel Paquemar before taking control to close out the match 3-1, underlining his fighting spirit. Another competitive fixture saw Switzerlands Ambre Allinckx overcome the Netherlands Tessa ter Sluis 3-1, while Egypts Ibrahim Elkabbani registered a solid 3-1 win against Indias Suraj Kumar Chand in a well-contested battle. The rest of the day saw a series of dominant performances from top contenders. Hong Kongs Chi Him Wong cruised past Ayaan Vaziralli 3-0, while Sofia Mateos secured a convincing straight-game win over Shameena Riaz. Matthew Lai and Danielle Ray were equally clinical, both registering comfortable 3-0 victories in their respective matches to kick off their campaigns in style. The excitement continues to build as Day 2 promises another thrilling line-up, with Indian stars Veer Chotrani, Joshna Chinappa, Anahat Singh, Abhay Singh, and Ramit Tandon set to begin their campaigns, much to the anticipation of the home crowd. Results (Day 1): Sehveetrraa Kumar bt Unnati Tripathi 3-0 (11-8, 11-5, 11-4); Farida Walid beat Nirupama Dubey 3-0 (11-7, 11-3, 11-4); Yassin Shohdy bt Manuel Paquemar 3-0 (10-12, 13-11, 11-5, 11-7); Matthew Lai bt Results (Day 1): Also Read: Live Cricket Score Shameena Riaz 3-0 (11-2, 11-8, 11-4); Yannik Omlor bt Yash Fadte 3-0 (13-11, 11-9, 12-10); Chi Him Wong bt Ayaan Vaziralli 3-0 (11-4, 11-6, 11-3); Ambre Allinckx bt Tessa ter Sluis 3-1 (9-11, 11-6, 11-5, 11-6); Breanne Flynn bt Lea Barbeau 3-0 (11-4, 11-2, 14-12); Ravindu Laksiri bt Duncan Lee 3-1 (9-11, 11-1, 11-5, 11-5); Ameeshenraj Chandaran bt Naoki Hayashi 3-1 (8-11, 13-11, 11-4, 11-9). Article Source: IANS
Hockey World Cup: India To Meet Pakistan On Aug 19; Women's Team To Start Against China On Aug 16
FIH Hockey World Cup: World No 8 India will meet archrivals Pakistan in a Pool D match at 6.30 pm IST on August 19 in the Men's FIH Hockey World Cup 2026 at the Wagener Hockey Stadium, Amstelveen. India are clubbed together with neighbours and four-time World Cup winner Pakistan in Pool D, along with Wales and England in the four-team Pool from which the top-placed team will qualify for the quarterfinals, while the next two placed teams will figure in Cross-Over matches. After a thrilling draw ceremony held at the Wagener Stadium in Amsterdam on Tuesday, where participating teams and athletes discovered their opponents for the group stage, the International Hockey Federation (FIH) has now confirmed the match schedule for the World Cup. The 1975 World Cup winner India will start their campaign in the 16-team men's competition against Wales on August 15, the opening day of the FIH Hockey World Cup, at 4.30 pm IST, and will run into fourth-ranked England on August 17 at the Wagener Hockey Stadium, Amstelveen England will play Pakistan in another key match of Pool D on August 15. The first round matches will be held till August 20, and the knock-out stage matches will be played from August 21. Meanwhile, the Indian women's hockey team will start their campaign against World No.4 and Asian Champion China at the Wagner Stadium in Amsterdam on August 16. They will run into South Africa, the only team ranked lower than them in World Rankings, on August 18 before winding off their first round proceedings with a clash with World No. 7 England, the team to which they lost in the World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad, India, on August 20. The Men's and Women's Hockey World Cups, being jointly held for the first time by Belgium and the Netherlands, will start with Australia women meeting Japan Women in the tournament opener on August 15. They will run into South Africa, the only team ranked lower than them in World Rankings, on August 18 before winding off their first round proceedings with a clash with World No. 7 England, the team to which they lost in the World Cup Qualifiers in Hyderabad, India, on August 20. Also Read: Live Cricket Score India, along with the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, Australia, Ireland, Argentina, Spain, New Zealand, Japan, and South Africa have qualified in both men's and women's sections of the competition. The Indian men made it by winning the Asia Cup, while the women's team made it by finishing second in the Qualifying tournament held in Hyderabad, Telangana. Article Source: IANS
IPL 2026: We Have To Win And Get That Fourth Star, Says KKR Head Coach Nayar
Kolkata Knight Riders: Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) head coach Abhishek Nayar delivered a clear and unambiguous message to his squad ahead of day one of the sides practice session at the Eden Gardens - the skill is there, the talent is assembled, and now it is time to win their fourth title. Three-time IPL winners KKR will open their 2026 season against five-time champions Mumbai Indians at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai on March 29. I'm just going to leave you all with one message before the whole group arrives. We have prepared a lot, we have worked on our skills in the past couple of months. We have had a lot of discussions; we have spoken a lot. For me, what happens year on is how we tune whats between our ears. The skill is there, that's not going to change in the next 10 days. But what changes is our mentality. So every moment that we spend on this ground, every moment we spend with each other, with the coaches, amongst ourselves, there's one goal. We have to do one thing, we have to win, we have to get that fourth star and we do everything to prepare our minds before our body actually arrives at the first game on the 29th. We prepare here, we use this time to talk to each other, communicate, get stronger as a group. So we're ready for everything. Have a lot of fun, said Nayar in a video posted by KKR Knight Club. Nayar also used the occasion to welcome a clutch of new faces into the KKR fold, starting from assistant coach Shane Watson and fielding coach Dishant Yagnik. Guys, just a very formal welcome from me. A few new entrants, so I think I should start with introducing them. Everyone knows Shane Watson as a player, but I've known him as someone who's played under him as a player. I'm really, really happy, Watto, to have you with us. I think you've been a terrific addition, even in this small period that I've interacted with you. Tap into his experience, you will learn a lot. We've had a lot of good coaches, but I'm pretty sure that Shane Watson is going to add a lot of value to us. So, Watto, welcome to the KKR family. I tend to miss a lot of names, but I think the second addition to our family is Mr. Dishant Yagnik, a ball of energy. A lot of you all know him domestically, but I'm sure his energy and his love and passion is something that will come across for us. So, welcome, Yagi. We've got (Manvinder) Bisla and Biju (George) here who are our head of scouting and our scouting team, they're here to help us in the phase building up. On Zimbabwe pacer Blessing Muzarabani, Nayar said, Blessing, you are a blessing in disguise for us. I know so far we've sort of folded you in the bus, but it's great to have you, the tallest member ever to be part of this KKR team. So welcome, I hope you have a great time with us and you enjoy the company of our boys. I tend to miss a lot of names, but I think the second addition to our family is Mr. Dishant Yagnik, a ball of energy. A lot of you all know him domestically, but I'm sure his energy and his love and passion is something that will come across for us. So, welcome, Yagi. We've got (Manvinder) Bisla and Biju (George) here who are our head of scouting and our scouting team, they're here to help us in the phase building up. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Now that that's out of the way and I hope I haven't forgotten anyone. Just one small thing, Rahul's not welcome here, as Rahul is back, and back to where he belongs. Rahul (Tripathi), welcome back. I know we've had a camp and it's pretty much the same group, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Lifting U19 Womens T20 WC Trophy For Second Time Felt Quite Special, Says Niki Prasad
U19 T20 World Cup: Niki Prasad says lifting the ICC Women's U19 T20 World Cup trophy for the second time as the sides captain - was an experience like no other and that has only sharpened her hunger to keep winning more titles for India in future. The 2025 U19 Womens T20 World Cup winning team was among the five champion sides felicitated by the BCCI at the recent annual awards in New Delhi on Sunday. All members and coaches received special medals from former players Sudha Shah and Shubhangi Kulkarni. I think that day was pretty special for all of us. Every kid dreams to play for India and for me it was playing for India U19 and also leading. So I think lifting the trophy for the second time felt quite special. Now as I look back at it, of course it's a really memorable day. Even coming over here, I was really excited to be around all the legends. So it was a pretty exciting day, said Niki in a video posted by the BCCI on their X account on Wednesday. With India winning the Women's ODI World Cup, Mens Champions Trophy, Mens U19 World Cup and Mens T20 World Cup, Niki said seeing the trophies won by India filled her with immense pride. Firstly I think I take pride in being Indian and I'm really proud to be Indian. Also I think it's really a very memorable and happy moment to be, not just sharing the U19 World Cup trophy with my own teammates, but also being part of the same calendar year, being part of seeing the women's team lifting the World Cup and then the men's one. So I think as an Indian and as a cricketer, I think it's a really proud moment for me, especially in this calendar year. Niki was keen to acknowledge that the BCCIs sustained investment in youth cricket is a key driver of that success. I think the BCCI plays a major role in the growth of the Indian team and also the future. They've put a lot of vision and a lot of investment in the youth. So I think that is obviously going to pay off and we've already done that in both men's and women's. It's really important to have that kind of support from the BCCI. I think we're just going to keep growing from here on. With Niki plying her trade for Delhi Capitals in WPL and Karnataka in domestic cricket, she said her aim is to get more trophies when she enters the senior team. For me, it's not just about playing for India, but it's about lifting the trophy again and again for India. So that's my ultimate goal for India. I think my first thought is going to be that we have one common thing - that all of us have one ICC trophy. She further talked about how she would chat with senior team captain Harmanpreet Kaur. Also I think the interaction was going to be quite interesting for me. To just ask about how their experience has been after winning in the T20s and the ODIs. So I think I would probably ask how they must have been feeling. With Niki plying her trade for Delhi Capitals in WPL and Karnataka in domestic cricket, she said her aim is to get more trophies when she enters the senior team. For me, it's not just about playing for India, but it's about lifting the trophy again and again for India. So that's my ultimate goal for India. I think my first thought is going to be that we have one common thing - that all of us have one ICC trophy. Also Read: Live Cricket Score So I think that would really help all the youngsters and all the current cricket players to go over there and keep training and keep evolving. So I think that plays a major role in the growth of the Indian cricket team. Article Source: IANS
Kishan to lead Sunrisers Hyderabad in Cummins' absence
Cummins, who is recuperating from a lumbar stress issue, is set to miss the early part of the season
T20 World Cup: England wicketkeeper-batter Jos Buttler has expressed hope that the T20 World Cup semi-final loss to India was not the final chapter of his international career, though he acknowledged that there are no guarantees regarding selection for Englands upcoming white-ball series in July. Buttler endured a difficult World Cup, scoring just 87 runs across eight innings and managing only one half-century in his last four ICC events. Despite this, he remains optimistic about being part of Englands home summer, which includes five T20Is and three ODIs against India. I hope so. I don't know. Obviously, I had a poor tournament, which is disappointing, but I've been playing some of the best cricket of my (career) in recent years, so hopefully I can get back to playing my best. I certainly have ambitions (to continue playing for England) but no longer being a captain, I'm not a selector and whatever, so what will be will be. Yeah, we will see, Buttler said on his podcast For the Love of Cricket. Following the tournament, Buttler took time away from cricket, spending a week with his family in France to reset mentally before returning to India to prepare for the IPL season with the Gujarat Titans. I couldn't have been further away from cricket, which for me at the time was just perfect. It's exactly what I needed. Obviously the tournament didn't go personally how I'd have liked it to go, and I just felt like I needed some space from cricket and not to think about the game, and I could not have been further away from cricket where I was in that week, he stated. It was really refreshing - I really enjoyed it, a complete sort of release. And slowly but surely, I'd say at the start of this week, (I am) just starting to reflect a bit and have a few thoughts about what's important to me and my cricket, and why it probably didn't go quite as I would've liked. There's elements (to what went wrong) that I actually don't really know exactly. For all your best intentions and hard work and efforts to perform, it just didn't work, and sometimes that's okay as well. That's something I've had to realise. It wasn't for a lack of effort. It just didn't quite happen, he added. It was really refreshing - I really enjoyed it, a complete sort of release. And slowly but surely, I'd say at the start of this week, (I am) just starting to reflect a bit and have a few thoughts about what's important to me and my cricket, and why it probably didn't go quite as I would've liked. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harry Brook and Brendon McCullum had created a fantastic environment at the World Cup. India were a serious team and worthy winners, Buttler said, recognising the quality of the opposition. Article Source: IANS
England's Smith Feels IPL Omission Could Prove To Be A Blessing In Disguise Ahead Of Home Summer
Indian Premier League: England wicketkeeper-batter Jamie Smith believes missing out on a place in the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 could prove to be a blessing in disguise, adding that time at home would give him a valuable block of red-ball preparation ahead of the Test summer starting in June against New Zealand. Smith had a difficult Ashes series, managing just 211 runs and a single half-century across five Tests as Australia won 4-1. After going unsold at last years IPL auction, Smith was subsequently dropped from England's white-ball squads for their tour to Sri Lanka and the Mens T20 World Cup. At the time, I would have definitely liked to have gone (to the IPL). It's an ambition of mine to strengthen all sides of my game, and I see the IPL as something that can really enhance the white-ball side and does have benefits for the red-ball (game). But in hindsight, yeah, it's fantastic to come here and have a block of red-ball (cricket) behind me. I felt that towards the back end of the summer and into the winter, technically, I felt a little bit out of kilter. It's been nice to come here (The Oval) and work on a couple of things, and then I'll be able to hopefully implement them, for six or seven (County Championship) games, and we'll see where we get to if there's any England stuff after that. But, yeah, it's nice to have a little block to try and get things right, Smith was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo on Wednesday. Smith's Ashes trip in Australia was not without its difficult moments. He dropped a straightforward chance of Travis Head as England slipped to a heavy defeat at the Gabba and drew widespread criticism for pulling a Marnus Labuschagne bouncer to deep extra cover in Sydney - a shot widely regarded as one of the more regrettable dismissals of the series. He was candid about the experience of playing in Australia, but stopped short of being overly self-critical, pointing to the cumulative toll of featuring in back-to-back long Test series. Mistakes are going to happen. The India series was physically and mentally very tough. It was my first five-Test series. Also, we were out in the field for 22 out of 25 days or something stupid, and all the Tests lasted (five days). By the end, it was just actual exhaustion: I was just knackered physically and mentally from all that had gone. From there, the learning was how to make sure that from the first to the last game, your standards are still as high as possible? It was similar in Australia, to be honest. I know a few of the games didn't last as long as people were expecting or wanting, but again, I don't feel like my standards were down too much, he added. Smith acknowledged his personal returns fell short of what was required of him, while also crediting Australia's performance across the series. It was tough. You go on a tour like that with high expectations of trying to do as well as you can, and it didn't pan out that way. It was similar in Australia, to be honest. I know a few of the games didn't last as long as people were expecting or wanting, but again, I don't feel like my standards were down too much, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score You are playing against a world-class team as well, and I think sometimes that gets lost a little bit, how good the opposition is. It's learning, but I'm coming into (the season) fresh, and I love being back at Surrey and playing here, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
Virat Definitely Is Still The Heartbeat Of RCB: AB De Villiers
Former Royal Challengers Bangalore: Former Royal Challengers Bangalore (RCB) superstar AB de Villiers has lauded Virat Kohli as the cornerstone of the franchise, emphasising that the Indian batting legend remains central not only for his performances but also for the energy and leadership he brings to the squad. De Villiers highlighted that Kohlis presence continues to inspire the team, particularly the younger players, reinforcing his enduring legacy at RCB. RCB will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign on March 28, hosting Sunrisers Hyderabad at the M. Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bangalore in the curtain raiser. After last years triumphant season, expectations are high for Kohli and the franchise as they aim to defend their title. Virat definitely is still the heartbeat of the franchise. Not only through his performances and the consistency he has achieved with the bat over the years, but also through his presence and the energy he brings to the squad. The way he conducts himself on and off the field, always fighting for the team, stands out. He brings that energy and makes the youngsters believe that they can ultimately go on and win the trophy, which RCB did last year, de Villiers told JioHotstar. What I liked about last season, yes, he was one of the main run-scorers in the team, as openers usually are, but there were other players who stepped in. In the past, RCB were often guilty of relying on just two, three, or four players performing consistently. This time, I felt the entire team chipped in, he added. Virat definitely is still the heartbeat of the franchise. Not only through his performances and the consistency he has achieved with the bat over the years, but also through his presence and the energy he brings to the squad. The way he conducts himself on and off the field, always fighting for the team, stands out. He brings that energy and makes the youngsters believe that they can ultimately go on and win the trophy, which RCB did last year, de Villiers told JioHotstar. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He emphasised the collective effort, noting that Kohlis leadership benefits from having a well-rounded squad around him. Thats my point, players contributing like that throughout the season, and the bowling attack stepping up. Virat can feel that; he can sense that he is not the only one carrying the load anymore. He has a squad of fighters around him, all gunning to win the trophy. I think they are in a really good place. Its a similar squad, they didnt have to change much, and they have good reason to believe they can go all the way again this coming season, he said. Article Source: IANS
'Things Will Be Different For Virat This Season,' Says Pathan Ahead Of IPL 2026
Indian Premier League: Former Indian all-rounder Irfan Pathan believes that the things will be different and more challenging for Indian stalwart Virat Kohli in the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) as the former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) captain is playing only ODI format and will play his first IPL after taking retirement from the tests last year. Pathan also added that despite Virat's great performance in the ODIs, even after the break, the same will not happen in the T20, as it will pose a different challenge for the charismatic batter. This time, things will be a little different for Kohli. For the first time, he will play the IPL having completely retired from Test cricket. He is playing only one format. It is not easy for anyone. But he has scored, and his performance has been brilliant. Even when he comes after a break, it has not been difficult for him in one-day cricket, Pathan said on his YouTube channel In T20S, when you play the aggressor and come in not having played a lot, it will be challenging. But he has faced many challenges before as well. I am very excited to see how he will go forward this season, he added. Pathan also said that Virat's approach of hitting from the onset with a high strike rate throughout the innings proved to be a big reason behind RCB's title win in 2025. In T20S, when you play the aggressor and come in not having played a lot, it will be challenging. But he has faced many challenges before as well. I am very excited to see how he will go forward this season, he added. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, Virat has joined the team ahead of the IPL 2026. He played a pivotal role in RCB's title-winning campaign last season, scoring 657 runs at a strike rate of 144.71 and a stunning average of 54.75, including eight fifties. The veteran batter would look to continue the form when for the franchise as they will march towards defending the title for the first time. Article Source: IANS
Buttler 'still has England ambitions' despite T20 World Cup slump
Former England captain has made one half-century in four ICC events, but is contracted for another 18 months
NZ Pacer Ferguson Credits Adaptability For Fightback In Hamilton T20I Against South Africa
Hamilton T20I: New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson said the Black Caps' adaptability factor was key to them staging a commanding fightback against South Africa in Hamilton, where the hosts levelled the five-match T20I series 1-1. Bowled out for a meagre 91 in the series opener in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand, regrouped to post 175/6 on a testing Hamilton pitch, before sealing a 68-run victory in the second match. I think more than anything, we talk a lot about the Black Caps adapting to conditions. It's not always as easy as it sounds, but certainly when a wicket we expect to play well doesn't play as well as we think, it's important to try and work out what a good total on that is. Sometimes you don't get that right. But at the same time, I think (the Hamilton game) was a good example of us adapting very quickly. Probably, I thought 175 was an outstanding total on that. Although Dev (Devon Conway, who top-scored with 60) was probably not as fluid as he always looks, it was a challenging wicket, and he got the runs that we needed and posted a great total, Ferguson was quoted as saying by ICC on Wednesday. The match in Hamilton carried added significance for Ferguson, as he missed the initial part of the home summer due to injury and took some time out of the 2026 Mens T20 World Cup for the birth of his first child. I really miss playing in New Zealand. It was unfortunate to start the summer with an injury. I was really looking forward to quite a lot of T20 cricket at home. I love playing in New Zealand in front of the home crowd, conditions I'm used to. So, stoked to get a game in last night. The bowling group as a collective were great, and they made my job a bit easier, the pressure from both ends, added Ferguson. Fellow pacer Ben Sears caught everyones eye through a three-wicket burst in Hamilton, something which Ferguson liked. He (Sears) has still got more pace in him, I think. But look, he's bowling well. It's good to see him get some consistent training time with us overseas. He was working on his game every training session. I saw him running in hard and working on different change-ups, different lines, asking the right questions. And it's that development that we've seen in the last few years, which will stand him well in the next few years and as long as his career goes. But a pleasure for me to watch from the side on, seeing him get extra bounce, scaring some of the batters certainly. And I'm looking forward to seeing how he goes at Eden Park in the third T20I too, he elaborated. I saw him running in hard and working on different change-ups, different lines, asking the right questions. And it's that development that we've seen in the last few years, which will stand him well in the next few years and as long as his career goes. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The crowd feels like they're right on your back. But the thing we get at Auckland is we get a great crowd supporting us. We always have amazing games of cricket there. So I certainly love playing there, concluded Ferguson. Article Source: IANS
Best International Cricketer: Indias vice captain Smriti Mandhana celebrated a remarkable year after being honoured with the Best International Cricketer (Women) award at the BCCI Naman Awards. The left-handed batter reflected on both her individual contributions and the broader success of Indian cricket, particularly the Womens ODI World Cup victory. It's been a great year. Again, I can't really mention a lot about my own performance because of the way we played the World Cup and winning the World Cup, that was pretty special. But for me individually as well, it was a great year in terms of doing what I could for the team and I'm happy that I could contribute to that, Mandhana said in a BCCI video. The opening batter highlighted the significance of Indias resurgence on the global stage across men's and womens cricket, stating, As I mentioned in the speech, four World Cups and one Champions Trophy, that's pretty amazing. And for Indian cricket, we had a few years where there was no World Cup, and a lot of people had a lot of things to say. But to come back in the last two years and doing what the Indian cricket has done, it's just amazing. And just to be part of the evening and celebrating all the teams, it's just amazing. Mandhana also talked about how important it was to be ready and have support systems in place that helped India win. She praised Jay Shah, the former BCCI secretary and current ICC chief, for all the work he did to help women's cricket grow. The opening batter highlighted the significance of Indias resurgence on the global stage across men's and womens cricket, stating, As I mentioned in the speech, four World Cups and one Champions Trophy, that's pretty amazing. And for Indian cricket, we had a few years where there was no World Cup, and a lot of people had a lot of things to say. But to come back in the last two years and doing what the Indian cricket has done, it's just amazing. And just to be part of the evening and celebrating all the teams, it's just amazing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score She further acknowledged the role of infrastructure and support staff in fostering a winning environment. Just the kind of support staff was provided, the kind of facilities which were provided, whatever was asked was given. So when you do those sort of things, those things right, the result comes. And the 19 women's winning the World Cup and as well as WPL creating stars and then us going on to win the World Cup. That's just the start of something really great, Mandhana said. Article Source: IANS
ICC Rankings: Mehidy Climbs To No. 2 Among ODI All-rounders; Santner Gains Big In T20I
Mehidy Hasan Miraz: Bangladesh skipper Mehidy Hasan Miraz has made significant gains in the ODI charts following a string of impressive performances against Pakistan in the recently concluded three-match ODI series at home. Mehidy climbed nine places to move to joint seventh in the ODI bowlers rankings, while also improving two spots to rise to second in the ODI all-rounders list. Mehidy was among Bangladesh's best performers during the recent three-game ODI series against Pakistan at home, with the all-rounder collecting five wickets across three matches. Bangladesh's prime batter Tanzid Hasan, who scored his maiden century against Pakistan, also surged 31 places to 55th, while Litton Das moved up 10 spots to 82nd. Among bowlers, Taskin Ahmed climbed 12 places to 28th and Mustafizur Rahman gained 13 positions to reach 47th. Despite losing the series, Pakistan batter Salman Ali Agha jumped nine places to joint ninth in the ODI batting rankings. He also improved three spots to be placed joint 10th among ODI all-rounders. Shaheen Shah Afridi advanced four places to be tied for 25th in the ODI all-rounders list after contributing with the ball. In T20Is, New Zealand captain Mitchell Santner registered the biggest gains, continuing his strong form from the ICC Mens T20 World Cup into the ongoing home series against South Africa. Santner, who has picked up three wickets and scored 35 runs in the opening two matches of the five-game series, climbed 11 places to 13th in the T20I bowlers rankings. He also moved up two spots to joint seventh in the T20I all-rounders list, achieving a career-best rating. Among his teammates, Lockie Ferguson rose 18 places to 51st in the T20I bowling rankings, while Devon Conway gained four spots to reach 70th among batters. Indias Abhishek Sharma continues to lead the T20I batting rankings. Santner, who has picked up three wickets and scored 35 runs in the opening two matches of the five-game series, climbed 11 places to 13th in the T20I bowlers rankings. He also moved up two spots to joint seventh in the T20I all-rounders list, achieving a career-best rating. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Indian opener Abhishek Sharma maintained his top spot in the T20I batters' rankings with Varun Chakaravarthy also continuing in the second spot in the T20I bowling chart. Article Source: IANS
Bangladesh Sports Minister To Consult ICC On Team's Future, Investigate BCB Polls And T20 WC Absence
Sports Minister Aminul Haque: Bangladeshs Sports Minister Aminul Haque has confirmed that he will consult with the International Cricket Council (ICC) before making any final decisions regarding the future of the Bangladesh Cricket Board (BCB). Additionally, he plans to establish a second committee to investigate the reasons behind Bangladeshs absence from this years mens T20 World Cup in India and Sri Lanka. Earlier, on March 11, the sports ministry established a committee to investigate allegations of irregularities, manipulation, and abuse of power in last years BCB elections. The board responded on Monday, claiming that the formation of the committee represented government interference in its affairs. Haque, a former Bangladesh football captain, stated on Tuesday that the five-member committee's findings, expected within 15 working days, will be reviewed before any further action is taken with the ICC. We are all aware of direct interference from our previous government in the BCB elections last year. I have spoken about it on a number of occasions. Following allegations from Dhaka clubs and the districts, we have formed an investigation committee. I will read their report, but my next step will come after I have spoken to the ICC, Haque was quoted as saying by ESPNCricinfo. Allegations of election manipulation emerged during the polls, with former cricketer Tamim Iqbal and several Dhaka club officials claiming interference. There were also accusations against BCB president Aminul Islam before the elections, including a signed letter in which Aminul reportedly requested changes to the councillors from certain districts. Tamim also alleged that the BCB twice extended the deadline for filing nominations. Tamim withdrew his candidacy on October 1, while Aminul denied all allegations on October 5, a day before the elections. Haque stated that the investigation would examine how district administrators modified their nominations in reply to letters from the BCB leadership. The investigation committee will speak to the BCB election commissioners, the current board president, BCB directors and the CEO. It will also get in touch with the district administrators who nominated the BCB councillors. There is an allegation that many of these district administrators sent the name of a new councillor after having already nominated one, following receipt of a letter [from Aminul]. I believe there has to be a neutral investigation of these matters, Haque explained. Haque stated that the investigation would examine how district administrators modified their nominations in reply to letters from the BCB leadership. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We will try to find out why we didn't go to the World Cup. We have to understand why our sports diplomacy fell short. We will form an investigation committee on this subject after Eid. We have to strengthen our sports diplomacy and make sure we don't repeat this mistake in the future, he said. Article Source: IANS
'It's Amazing To Be Recognised Among Legends,' Says Gill After Winning Polly Umrigar Award
Polly Umrigar Award: India's test captain Shubman Gill expressed immense pride and gratitude after being named the winner of the prestigious Polly Umrigar Award for Best International Cricketer (Men) for 2025 by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) at the Naman Awards. Gill said that being recognised alongside some of the legends and idols who have previously won the award made the achievement even more special. Obviously, it feels quite amazing to be recognised among cricketers, among the legends and idols that have won this award before me. Its truly a great honour every time you step on the field to represent your country in a sport that Ive spent my entire life playing, and to do well in that sport and be recognised by the BCCI is an immense honour, Gill said in a video released by the BCCI on X. Reflecting on Indias performances over the past year, Gill said that it was an amazing journey, highlighting the teams resilience during the England series, where they fought back to draw after a difficult start. I think its been an amazing journey so far. Going into the England series and coming back to draw the series from where we were after the first Test match, and even after that, playing in the West Indies and the Asia Cup its been a truly great year, he noted. Looking ahead, Gill emphasised the importance of the upcoming Test calendar, with India set to face Sri Lanka, New Zealand and Australia in crucial series that could determine their chances of reaching the World Test Championship (WTC) final. The team are currently placed at the sixth position with only four wins and a draw in nine matches. Weve got some really crucial Test series coming up. Hopefully we are able to win most of our matches and qualify for the finals, he said. Gill credited the collective effort of the teams support staff, including head coach Gautam Gambhir along with the broader coaching unit and staff at the Centre of Excellence (CoE), for shaping India into one of the most fearless teams in world cricket. Its efforts by everyone whether its Gauti bhai, the batting coach, bowling coach, fielding coach; they all work tirelessly to make this group what it is today. Thats why we are recognised as one of the most fearless teams in the world, and wherever we go, we are looked upon as favourites. That tag doesnt come easy, he added. The 26-year-old also acknowledged the support from the BCCI's current leadership and former secretary Jay Shah for providing world-class facilities and infrastructure that have contributed to players growth and performance. The support that we have got from the BCCI, especially Jay bhai and all the office bearers, has been great. The initiatives theyve taken to take our cricket forward have really helped us immensely. Even when I got injured, the training, practice and facilities played a huge role in performance, Gill said. Gill further downplayed discussions around legacy, instead stressing the importance of building a team identity in Test cricket. The support that we have got from the BCCI, especially Jay bhai and all the office bearers, has been great. The initiatives theyve taken to take our cricket forward have really helped us immensely. Even when I got injured, the training, practice and facilities played a huge role in performance, Gill said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Gill's performance in India's five-Test series in England was the central reason for the award. He scored 754 runs in ten innings at an average of 75.40 with four centuries and a highest score of 269. Gill finished as the highest run-getter in the test for 2025 with 983 runs in nine matches at an average of 70.21. Article Source: IANS
'KKRs Top Order Definitely Needs To Fire This Season', Opines L Balaji Ahead Of IPL 2026
Indian Premier League: Ahead of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, former India pacer Lakshmipathy Balaji has stressed the importance of Kolkata Knight Riders top order performing consistently if the three-time champions are to challenge for the title. With key players departing after the 2025 season, KKRs batting lineup faces fresh scrutiny, and Balaji believes the responsibility will largely fall on skipper Ajinkya Rahane, Cameron Green, and the teams overseas openers. Balaji suggested a reshuffled batting order could maximise KKRs potential. I always feel that KKR skipper Ajinkya Rahane should bat in the top order. He shouldnt bat at anything less than number three. He has done phenomenally well with CSK at number three and scored a lot of runs. So, he batting one down would be good for both him and KKR. Cameron Green can come out to bat at number four. That will give him time to settle down and then start going after the bowlers. So, a top four of Finn Allen, Tim Seifert, Ajinkya Rahane and Cameron Green is going to be the go-to one, he told JioStar. With key players departing after the 2025 season, KKRs batting lineup faces fresh scrutiny, and Balaji believes the responsibility will largely fall on skipper Ajinkya Rahane, Cameron Green, and the teams overseas openers. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The 19th edition of the cash-rich event is set to commence on March 28, with KKR scheduled to play the second game of the tournament, against five-time champions Mumbai Indians, at the iconic Wankhede Stadium. Article Source: IANS
Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy: Angkrish Raghuvanshi is well-aware the T20 game is rapidly evolving. Since entering the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) camp in their triumphant 2024 season, where he wowed everyone with his ramp, reverse-sweep and scoop shots to make 163 runs in ten matches, Raghuvanshi had a productive IPL 2025 making 300 runs in 12 games. With IPL 2026 now 10 days away, the element of surprise that served Raghuvanshi, who hit a rapid 54 off 27 balls on his tournament debut, so well will be replaced by something more demanding expectation of stepping up more frequently with the bat when the season begins. Ask Raghuvanshi about his goal heading into IPL 2026 and the answer from the soft-spoken right-handed batter is very simple. I think my mindset is still the same. It's always to win games for my team and it will always continue to be that. As for the role I'm asked to play, that I'll find out during this IPL and I will give my 100 percent for it. But my aim is to maintain my mindset and win as many games as I can for the team, said Raghuvanshi in an exclusive conversation with IANS, facilitated by JSW Sports. Life after IPL 2025 hasnt been straightforward for Raghuvanshi he was absent from Mumbais Syed Mushtaq Ali Trophy campaign in the recent domestic season. But in the Vijay Hazare Trophy he underlined his worth, finishing as Mumbais second-highest run-scorer behind Sarfaraz Khan with 280 runs in seven outings. His red-ball opportunities with Mumbai have been scarce - just four first-class appearances so far and is coming off playing for the U23 team in the Col CK Nayudu Trophy. But Raghuvanshi, the leading run-getter in Indias 2022 U19 World Cup triumph, has nothing but gratitude for the chance to constantly play the sport he loves the most. I think I love this sport and I'm just grateful for the opportunity that I get to play this sport. So I don't take too much pressure on myself. I'm just enjoying the journey and trying to do as well as I can, he said. If there is one relationship that has shaped Raghuvanshis life and career, it is with Abhishek Nayar, who is taking charge as KKRs head coach after being in an assistant role for a long time. Raghuvanshi first encountered Nayar at his academy as an 11-year-old at Wilson College Gymkhana in Mumbai after coming from New Delhi and that bond has just gone stronger with every passing year. That famous post IPL 2024 trophy photograph with Nayar pinned on his Instagram profile says it all. It was a dream come true for me. I got an opportunity to practice at his academy and I'd been practicing there for a month. Then he showed up and he started coaching me. I guess he felt that I was dedicated and I wanted to learn as much as I could. He could see how much love I had for the sport. I guess he decided to take me on then. He's taught me how to be a better cricketer and a better person. Just everything I've learned in life, I've learned from him. So I think he's a great cricketing mind and a great person and we will have a great season under him, Raghuvanshi said. On the technical front, Nayar's influence shows up clearly in Raghuvanshi's willingness to play the usual and unorthodox shots that require both skill and nerve. The methodology behind it is straightforward, as per Raghuvanshi. It's because Abhishek sir makes me practice as hard as anyone can. His main motto is that if you practice very hard, put yourself under pressure in practice and you train as hard as you can, then matches become easy and that's what I also felt worked for me, he said. Ask Raghuvanshi on what is the secret behind the dynamic environment in KKR and he points not to the stars in the dressing room or coaching staff, but to the franchises academy that keeps players connected through the year. It's largely because of the KKR academy as well, because we practice with each other throughout the year. So I think when the tournament finally comes around, we all know each other very well. I think it's one of the environments where everyone wants each other to do well. It's a very rare environment and it's a great, amazing atmosphere to be a part of. Everyone's motivated and want to do well (this season). In every game we just try to do as well as we can. Every game we give it our all and obviously it's different outcomes for every game. But for every game, the mindset is the same - that is to try to help the team to win and whatever the team needs, he said. The biggest takeaway from Raghuvanshis IPL experiences has been about not stagnating as a player. My biggest learning is that everyone is growing and learning all the time, so you always have to improve. Every day you go out to play or go out to practice, you just always learn and try to get better because everyone around you is always getting better, he said. IPL 2026 will bring new international teammates for Raghuvanshi at KKR and he has already identified the people he wants to learn from a lot about cricket - Finn Allen, Rachin Ravindra and assistant coach Shane Watson are all on his radar. I'm just looking forward to working with every one of them so I can pick their brains as to how they go about their cricket and I can learn from them and get better. They've done well a lot of times and that's why they're one of the best players in the world, he said. Through all of this, the support structure at home remains a constant for Raghuvanshi his father Avneesh played tennis, while mother Mallika represented India in basketball. Add to it, his brother Krishang dabbled into professional tennis. I think my parents are both very supportive, and I can't thank them enough for it. I'm very grateful for it. They just know that I enjoy the sport and they motivate me to work hard and just continue loving the game, he said. Through all of this, the support structure at home remains a constant for Raghuvanshi his father Avneesh played tennis, while mother Mallika represented India in basketball. Add to it, his brother Krishang dabbled into professional tennis. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Time will tell if KKR, who still face questions over their fast-bowling resources, are able to bounce back after a subdued 2025 season. For now, the IPL spotlight on Raghuvanshi will become brighter if runs keep coming for him if he continues to follow his mantra of staying grounded, always improving, and helping KKR win matches. Article Source: IANS
Virat Kohli Reaches Bengaluru Ahead Of IPL 2026, Netizens Say, 'The King Arrived In His Kingdom'
Karnataka State Cricket Association: India's talismanic batter Virat Kohli has arrived here in the city to join the defending champions Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) ahead of the 19th season of the Indian Premier League (IPL), which is set to commence on March 28. Kohli played a pivotal role in RCB's title-winning campaign last season, scoring 657 runs at a strike rate of 144.71 and a stunning average of 54.75, including eight fifties. The veteran batter would look to continue the form for the franchise as they will march towards defending the title for the first time. RCB shared a video of Virat's arrival on its social media, showing the former captain at the airport and in a cab, with a traffic signal displaying his jersey number 18, with the KGF theme in the background. You dont have to see him to know hes coming! Check the calendar. There will be signs, RCB wrote in the caption. Natiezens can contain their excitement, as one fan wrote on X, The king kohli arrived in his kingdom. Another user wrote, The King has arrived to reclaim his throne once again, and we are all seated to witness him smash the opponents for fun and he could not come at a better day, Its the 18th day of the month. Another user added, 18 march and jersey number 18 is here. while a fan said, RCB isnt complete without the King Kohli. Kohli is the highest run-scorer in the history of the tournament; he has scored 8,661 runs from 267 matches at an average of 39.54. The 37-year-old has eight tons, the most for a player, as well as 63 half-centuries. Kohli made his debut in 2008, and since then, he has played for only one franchise. The former captain recently shared a video of a practice session in London where he was looking in great touch. Meanwhile, the defending champions RCB will return to their home ground, M. Chinnaswamy Stadium, to play the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 opener against Sunrisers Hyderabad (SRH) on March 28 after the Karnataka State Cricket Association (KSCA) received official permission from the Government of Karnataka to host the matches. The former captain recently shared a video of a practice session in London where he was looking in great touch. Also Read: Live Cricket Score RCB's clash against Rajasthan will happen in Guwahati before they hit the road again to take on Mumbai at the Wankhede. Article Source: IANS
If I Were With KKR, Id Ask For A Spin-friendly Eden Pitch For Varun & Narine: Faf
Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru: Former Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) skipper Faf du Plessis has weighed in on Kolkata Knight Riders prospects for the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026 season, highlighting the crucial role their spin attack could play after a disappointing campaign last year. KKR, three-time IPL champions, are looking to regroup and rediscover their winning formula. According to du Plessis, much of that success will hinge on how effectively they utilise their two premier spinners, Varun Chakaravarthy and Sunil Narine, particularly in home conditions at Eden Gardens. If I was part of the KKR team management, I would ask the groundsman at Eden Gardens to make the wicket spin-friendly. KKR are blessed to have two absolute cannons in Varun Chakaravarthy and Sunil Narine. They are two of the best T20 spinners in the game right now, du Plessis told JioStar. Both Varun and Narine have to be in the game. If they play on surfaces where they are not in contention, then you are losing those two cannons and your superpower. Yes, they can bowl well on any wicket and trouble batters. But for KKR to be successful this IPL, Varun and Narine need to fire. The pitch should be prepared keeping those two players in mind, he added. Beyond spin, du Plessis also turned his attention to KKRs squad composition, particularly the inclusion of Cameron Green, who has been brought in as a high-profile all-round option. Cameron Green is a highly talented guy who has a lot of potential in him to succeed. He is the multi-skilled marquee buy for KKR and the replacement for Andre Russell. Green is six-foot tall, a massive guy, he bowls well, has a good bouncer and yorker, can hit the ball out of the stadium easily and is a proper batter, he said, However, he also pointed out that expectations will be high, especially given the player's price tag. In short, he is a complete package. He balances KKRs team very well. In terms of IPL cricket, Green has a lot of potential. But form has not been on his side recently. With a price tag of INR 25.2 crores, there is a big price tag pressure he will carry. There is a lot of weight on his shoulders. The team will expect a lot from him. It will be interesting to see how he goes, he added. Du Plessis further assessed KKRs potential opening combination, suggesting a dynamic pairing at the top could strengthen their batting lineup. He pointed to Finn Allen and Tim Seifert, who have opened together for New Zealand in T20Is, noting that their aggressive approach aligns well with modern T20 demands. If KKR can find a way to fit Finn Allen and Tim Seifert together in the playing XI as openers, it will be really good for them. It will make their batting very strong. Allen and Seifert know each other quite well and have an established opening partnership between each other since they open for New Zealand in T20Is. We all saw the carnage they displayed in the T20 World Cup. That counts as a massive factor. Du Plessis further assessed KKRs potential opening combination, suggesting a dynamic pairing at the top could strengthen their batting lineup. He pointed to Finn Allen and Tim Seifert, who have opened together for New Zealand in T20Is, noting that their aggressive approach aligns well with modern T20 demands. Also Read: Live Cricket Score He did, however, flag concerns around the teams bowling depth, particularly in light of injury issues. But the question mark is their bowling. With the injuries they have, they almost need to pick an experienced player from the unsold list and bring that required experience into their bowling attack. Article Source: IANS
NSW Rope In Ex-Australia Wicketkeeper Brad Haddin As New Mens Head Coach
Cricket NSW Life Member: Former Australia wicketkeeper Brad Haddin has been named the new head coach of New South Wales (NSW). The 48-year-old replaces Greg Shipperd, whose stint ended early despite having a year remaining on his contract. Haddin, whose decorated career as a wicketkeeper batter for Australia, NSW and the Sydney Sixers earned him Cricket NSW Life Member status in 2024, will commence in the role in June. His appointment signifies a return to the state setup more than ten years after his last appearance for the Blues in November 2014. Haddin, brings international coaching experience, having served as an assistant and fielding coach for Australia under Darren Lehmann and Justin Langer, will oversee all aspects of the Blues program, building on the strong foundations in place to embed a distinctive playing style, develop First-Class and Australian players and challenge for further titles. NSW cricket has been an integral part of my life and to rejoin the fold as Blues head coach is a proud moment for myself and my family. I am looking forward to working with our current crop of talented players to bring back an aura to NSW cricket and to have a team with a formidable and distinctive style of play we can all be proud of. Wearing the baggy blue was incredibly special and gave me some of the greatest memories of my career, Haddin said in an NSW statement. Haddins appointment as NSW Head Coach will see him pull on a Blues uniform for the first time in almost 12 years, having last represented the state in November 2014 during his final summer of First-Class and List-A cricket. Lee Germon, Cricket NSW CEO, said, I am delighted to welcome Brad Haddin back to Cricket NSW to drive our Blues program forward and challenge for further titles. Brad is a highly regarded coach with experience at international and franchise level, plus a deep understanding of the NSW way of playing. Haddins appointment as NSW Head Coach will see him pull on a Blues uniform for the first time in almost 12 years, having last represented the state in November 2014 during his final summer of First-Class and List-A cricket. Also Read: Live Cricket Score While Haddin will lead the Blues, his duties will not extend to the Big Bash League sides Sydney Sixers or Sydney Thunder. Both franchises are in the process of appointing new head coaches after parting ways with Greg Shipperd and Trevor Bayliss, with James Hopes and Shane Watson among those linked to the vacancies. Article Source: IANS
Former Australian Test Wicketkeeper Haddin To Coach NSW
Former Australian Test wicketkeeper Brad Haddin was appointed head coach of New South Wales on Wednesday, vowing to bring an aura back to the struggling team. Haddin replaces Greg Shipperd who was sacked midway through the season with NSW failing to fire in the domestic Sheffield Shield. He got the nod after reportedly receiving high-level endorsements from former Test captains Mark Taylor and Steve Waugh. Wearing the baggy blue was incredibly special and gave me some of the greatest memories of my career, said Haddin of his playing time with NSW. I am looking forward to working with our current crop of talented players to bring back an aura to NSW cricket and to have a team with a formidable, distinctive style of play we can all be proud of. The appointment continues Haddin's rise through coaching ranks, having previously served as an assistant in the Australian teams under Darren Lehmann and Justin Langer. He also worked under Trevor Bayliss at Indian Premier League sides Sunrisers Hyderabad and Punjab Kings. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Haddin played 66 Tests and 126 ODIs before his retirement in 2015.
Ferguson on Sears: 'He has still got more pace in him'
I love playing in New Zealand in front of the home crowd, conditions I'm used to, Lockie Ferguson says of returning after a break
Bangladesh sports minister to consult ICC on future of BCB
Sports minister Aminul Haque said on Tuesday that once the five-member committee submits its report within 15 working days, he will discuss the matter with the ICC
Molineux set to return but full all-round role remains uncertain
Caution will be taken with Australia's new captain ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year
'Ashes series take a lot out of you' - Carey fatigued but excited for a Shield final
Carey said he is looking forward to a break but is highly motivated to help South Australia to back-to-back Shield titles against Victoria next week
Haddin named New South Wales head coach
The former wicketkeeper-batter takes over from Greg Shipperd after a messy few months for the state
Can England's regime change to meet post-Ashes realities?
Livingstone's explosive interview with ESPNcricinfo exposes issues within disjointed England set-up
Hard To Find Difference Between Israel And Pakistan, Says Naveen Ul Haq After Kabul Air Strikes
Naveen Ul Haq: Afghanistan cricketer Naveen Ul Haq has flayed Pakistan for the air strikes on Kabul that killed 400 people, and said it is hard to find any difference between the attack by Israel and the United States on Iran and that on his country's capital. Hard to find any difference between the Israel and Pakistan regimes. Period, Naveel Ul Haq wrote in a post on his Facebook wall on Tuesday. The Afghanistan pacer was reacting to air strikes by Pakistan forces on a hospital treating drug addicts in Kabul. Around 400 people died while 250 were injured in the air strikes. His comments drew sharp reactions from many people on social media. Naveen Ul Haq is among several Afghan cricketers who have condemned the air strikes in which several civilians have been killed. Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan condemned the attacks, calling them sickening and deeply concerning and said he stands with the Afghan people in this difficult time. I am deeply saddened by the latest reports of civilian casualties as a result of Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul. Targeting civilian homes, educational facilities, or medical infrastructure, either intentional or by mistake, is a war crime. The sheer disregard for human lives, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, is sickening and deeply concerning. It will only fuel division and hatred. I call upon the UN and other human rights agencies to thoroughly investigate this latest atrocity and hold the perpetrators to account. I stand with my Afghan people in this difficult time. We shall heal, and we will rise as a nation. We always do. Inshallah! Afghanistan captain Rashid Khan said in a post on X. Another Afghan cricketer, Rahmanullah Gurbaz, also expressed anguish over the loss of 'innocent lives' in the attack by Pakistan and wondered how many more lives must be lost before the world speaks on these incidents.. A hospital was bombed in Afghanistan during Ramadan by PakistanWhere is international law now? Where is humanity now? How many innocent lives must be lost before the world speaks? wrote Gurbaz in his post on X, formerly Twitter. Several fans also supported the cricketers and condemned the attack by Pakistan that cost civilian lives. A hospital was bombed in Afghanistan during Ramadan by PakistanWhere is international law now? Where is humanity now? How many innocent lives must be lost before the world speaks? wrote Gurbaz in his post on X, formerly Twitter. Also Read: Live Cricket Score A few months back, Pakistan had bombed places across the border in Afghanistan, in which three domestic cricketers had died. As a result, the Afghanistan Cricket Board had pulled out its cricket team from a tri-series in Pakistan. Article Source: IANS
Pak Spinner Abrar Not Concerned By Backlash On The Hundred Signing By Indian Owners: Report
Indian Premier League: Pakistans mystery spinner Abrar Ahmed is not losing sleep over the possible backlash, specifically comments from former Indian great Sunil Gavaskar, on his signing by an Indian-owned franchise, Sunrisers Leeds, in the auction for the upcoming edition of The Hundred, a news report said on Tuesday. Abrar, ranked as high as number two in the ICC rankings until last month and now third, was signed by Sunrisers Leeds, which owns Sunrisers Hyderabad in the Indian Premier League, for 190k Pounds Sterling last week. The franchise owners are facing severe backlash in India over the signing, but Abrar is not worried by comments over the move, Telecom Asia Sport said in a report. Gavaskar called the signing an indirect way to fund the Pakistan military, which, in turn, kills Indian soldiers. While the Pakistan Cricket Board and Abrar are tight-lipped on the backlash, sources said there are no concerns as the matter is between England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) and the franchise. The noise on Abrars signing is not unexpected, but he is not losing sleep over the uproar, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sources told www.telecomasia.net. Abrar registered for The Hundred as he is ready to ply his trade in the leagues around the world and was signed as one of the top three bowlers in T20I rankings, which is well deserved, the report said, quoting sources. The coach of Sunrisers Leeds, Daniel Vettori, conveyed the signing to Abrar and advised him to be in touch and prepared to give his best, the sources said. Vettori, himself a spinner of repute who played 442 internationals for New Zealand across formats, backed the signing. Once we missed out on Adil Rashid [to Southern Brave], who was a priority early on, then we obviously jumped into the overseas spinner. There were four or five guys that we were looking at, and Abrar was one of them. Very pleased to get him, Daniel Vettori said after the conclusion of the auction. Abrars signing comes after the ECB threatened that The Hundred sides could face disciplinary action if there is evidence that Pakistan players are overlooked in the auction based on nationality, the Telecom Asia Sport report said on Tuesday. The warning followed after the BBC reported that the four Indian-owned teams - Manchester Super Giants, MI London, Southern Brave, and Sunrisers Leeds - will not consider Pakistan cricketers over a blanket ban on them due to strained relations between the two countries. The relations between the two countries hit their lowest point after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir in April last year. New Delhi accused the attacks of having the backing of Islamabad, a claim Pakistan denied. A four-day military conflict followed, with both sides claiming victory. The relations between the two countries hit their lowest point after the terrorist attack in Pahalgam in Jammu and Kashmir in April last year. Also Read: Live Cricket Score This is absolutely ridiculous & should be condemned. How are these comments acceptable? I dont care how many runs you have scored. Vile stuff from Gavaskar, Rafiq wrote on social media platform X. Article Source: IANS
Pope: Ashes axing was 'right decision at the time'
Former vice-captain will be back in county ranks for first time since 2022 ahead of Test summer
IPL 2026: Working With Southee Will Improve My Skills, Says KKR's Vaibhav Arora
Kolkata Knight Riders: Ahead of the new season of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, three-time champions Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) pacer Vaibhav Arora is focused on evolving his game and sharpening his skillset as he prepares for the challenges ahead in the season. The 28-year-old pacer from Ambala, who made his debut for the franchise in 2023, has taken 36 wickets in 32 matches in his IPL career so far with an impressive strike rate of 17.72. He also played a key role in KKRs title-winning campaign in IPL 2024, claiming 11 wickets in 10 matches. As the team gears up for the upcoming season, Arora has been putting in extensive work during the training camp, focusing on improving different aspects of his bowling. Overall, the preparation is solid. We're playing practice matches and also honing our variations in the nets. As a fast bowler, you always want to prepare well and improve your skills so that you can execute them effectively in match situations, he said. Arora is particularly excited about the opportunity to work closely with former teammate Tim Southee, who has joined the franchise as bowling coach this season. The former New Zealand captain brings enormous experience to the role, having taken more than 700 international wickets and previously represented KKR for three seasons between 2021 and 2023. Reflecting on the chance to learn from Southee again, Arora said, Tim Southee is a legend with tons of experience. Weve been teammates with KKR before in 2023, and I learned a lot from him then. Now that hes our bowling coach, Ill get more time to work with him and learn from his experience to improve my skills. Theres a lot I can learn from him, and its going to be fun working with him. Known for his ability with the new ball, Arora is also looking to expand his repertoire and adapt to the conditions he is likely to face during the season. As you must have seen at Eden Gardens last year, the new ball swings only for the first three or four overs, maximum. After that, there is no swing because of the conditions and the nature of the wicket. So, the variations become very important in those situations, he explained. With that in mind, Arora has been working on refining his variations and improving his execution, something that worked well for him during the previous season. Last year, we had a bit of success while executing yorkers with the new ball. As a bowler, you must use the ground's dimensions to your advantage and choose deliveries wisely against each batter, he said. Known for his ability with the new ball, Arora is also looking to expand his repertoire and adapt to the conditions he is likely to face during the season. As you must have seen at Eden Gardens last year, the new ball swings only for the first three or four overs, maximum. After that, there is no swing because of the conditions and the nature of the wicket. So, the variations become very important in those situations, he explained. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Looking ahead, Arora said the teams focus remains on continuing their preparation and being ready for the upcoming phase of training in Kolkata. Our mindset is focused on going to the next camp in Kolkata and being mentally and physically prepared to give 110% there, he concluded. Article Source: IANS
The Marylebone Cricket Club: The Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) has clarified that the controversial run out of Salman Ali Agha during the second ODI between Bangladesh and Pakistan in Dhaka was correctly adjudged under the Laws of Cricket, while also noting that the fielding side could have chosen to withdraw the appeal in keeping with the Spirit of Cricket. The incident occurred when Bangladesh all-rounder Mehidy Hasan Miraz attempted to field a shot played by Mohammad Rizwan. As Miraz moved across the pitch to collect the ball, he collided with Agha, who had backed up at the non-strikers end. In the confusion that followed, Agha bent down as if to pick up the ball and hand it back to the bowler, seemingly under the impression that play had come to a halt. However, Miraz quickly gathered the ball and deflected it onto the stumps while Agha was still outside his crease, leading to the Pakistan captains dismissal. After the match, Agha referenced the Spirit of Cricket, remarking that he would have chosen differently had he been the fielder and instead gone for sportsman spirit. In response to the debate over the incident, the MCC issued a statement confirming that the on-field decision was correct. Under Laws, there is little that either umpire could have done differently. The non-striker was clearly out of his ground when the wicket was broken, and the ball was in play. That is out, the statement said. The MCC also pointed out that Agha had put himself at greater risk by trying to handle the ball. It is also worth pointing out that the non-striker had left his ground when the ball was in play and had just started to attempt to regain his ground when he collided with Mehidy. Furthermore, no batter should attempt to pick the ball up without the consent of the fielding side, and had he done so, he would have been at risk of an Obstructing the field dismissal. In retrospect, he would have been better using that time to attempt to regain his ground, the statement read. Amid suggestions that the ball should have been declared dead after the collision, the MCC rejected that interpretation, stating that the Laws did not permit such a ruling in this situation. There have been some suggestions that the ball should have been treated as Dead. That is not viable under the Laws; the ball does not become dead when players collide - if it did, that would incentivise players to seek out collisions when the situation was advantageous. There was no question of a serious injury, so there could be no call of Dead ball for that. It could not have been clear to the umpire that all the players ceased to consider the ball to be in play, since Mehidy clearly believed it was live, even if Agha did not. And it cannot have been finally settled in the hands of the bowler or wicket-keeper, since it was on the ground. The MCC further explained that even the revised dead-ball law, scheduled to take effect in October, would not have changed the outcome of the incident. Under the new Laws, which will come into effect in October, an umpire will be able to determine that the ball is finally settled if it is stationary on the ground. However, it is hard to make an argument that the ball is finally settled if the nearest fielder to it is attempting to run the non-striker out, with that non-striker out of their ground. There is no case, therefore, to be made that this was Not Out under Law, nor that the Law could be rewritten to somehow make a situation like this Not out. While backing the dismissal's legality, the MCC acknowledged that Bangladesh could have recalled the batter if they wished to uphold the Spirit of Cricket. There is no case, therefore, to be made that this was Not Out under Law, nor that the Law could be rewritten to somehow make a situation like this Not out. Also Read: Live Cricket Score It certainly would have been possible for Mehidy, as Bangladesh captain, to withdraw his appeal. Agha clearly thought the ball was dead and was attempting to assist the fielding side after an unintentional collision, which made it harder for him to regain his ground. The Laws allow a withdrawal for incidents where the batter is out in Law, but the fielding side feels that it would be better, within the Spirit of Cricket, to allow them to continue. Article Source: IANS
Batty: Routes from county cricket to England team have 'misted over'
Surrey's head coach defends Championship as 'best breeding ground' in world game
Ashwell Prince rues lack of partnerships in South Africa's Hamilton defeat
The only box we ticked was George Linde, who played a really nice cameo towards the end, but we didn't get any partnerships going, the South Africa batting coach said
MCC on Agha run-out: 'No case to be made that this was not out'
The lawmaking body contended that the dismissal was fully in accordance with the Laws of the game
There Is More To Indian Cricket Than Just A Couple Of People, Says R. Ashwin
Ravichandran Ashwin: The realisation that it was time for him to retire from Test cricket dawned on former India all-rounder Ravichandran Ashwin when the younger and less experienced Washington Sundar was preferred over him for a Test match in Australia. During India's tour of Australia in 2024, senior bowler Ashwin lost his place in the XI and decided to retire at the end of the series. At an event in Kolkata on Tuesday, Ashwin opened up about the moment he realised his time with the Indian team had come to an end. At Perth, I was the senior bowler. Washi (Washington Sundar) played that Test, and I realised that my time was up, he said. His retirement after the Brisbane Test prompted criticism of the team management, especially after Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli also stepped away following the series. Head coach Gautam Gambhir faced trolling on social media amid suggestions that senior players had been pushed towards retirement. Ashwin, however, dismissed that narrative and backed Gambhirs approach. I like Gautam, and many people may have different opinions about him, but he is someone who always puts the team ahead of individuals, Ashwin said. He credits the team, not individuals, and thats something I admire. Ashwin also spoke about the culture within the Indian dressing room and the importance of looking beyond individual stars. There is more to Indian cricket than just a couple of people, he said. Reflecting on his long association with Virat Kohli and Rohit Sharma, Ashwin highlighted the bond within the group during their years together. The best part about us was that none of us blamed each other. We all wanted India to win and make the country proud. We were motivated to do that, he said. Ashwin also spoke about the culture within the Indian dressing room and the importance of looking beyond individual stars. There is more to Indian cricket than just a couple of people, he said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Bowling is not as effective as batting, and thats where the concern lies. Article Source: IANS
Sanju Samson Felicitated By Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan After T20 WC Win
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan: Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan honoured India wicketkeeper-batter Sanju Samson, who played a pivotal role in Indias triumphant campaign at the ICC Men's T20 World Cup earlier this month. Vijayan hosted the World Cup champion at his official residence, Cliff House, on Monday (March 16), to acknowledge his achievements. The 31-year-old Samson came dressed in traditional attire for the ceremony, during which Vijayan handed him a commemorative memento bearing the message, We salute Sanju Viswanath Samson. The keepsake also highlighted his crucial contributions during the tournaments knockout phase, including a 97 off 50 balls against the West Indies in the Super 8 stage, an 89 off 42 in the semifinal against England, and another 89 off 46 in the final versus New Zealand. Sharing the moment on X, Vijayan wrote, Had the pleasure of hosting India's pride and Kerala's own, Sanju Samson, at Cliff House yesterday. Conveyed the profound love and joy of the people of Kerala. May he draw strength from his recent achievements and continue to scale new heights. Wishing him the very best! Samsons journey in the tournament was not without challenges. He had initially been left out of Indias playing XI for their opening match, with the team management opting for Ishan Kishan as the wicketkeeper alongside opener Abhishek Sharma. His place in the squad had also come under scrutiny after he managed only 46 runs across five matches in a home T20I series against New Zealand ahead of the global event. Despite the early doubts, Samson turned the narrative around with a string of match-winning performances, emerging as one of the standout players in Indias successful campaign. Following the celebrations, the Kerala batter has now turned his attention to the upcoming season of the Indian Premier League, where Samson will make his debut with Chennai Super Kings, five-time champions of the tournament. Despite the early doubts, Samson turned the narrative around with a string of match-winning performances, emerging as one of the standout players in Indias successful campaign. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Chennai will be looking to bounce back strongly this season after finishing at the bottom of the table in IPL 2025 with just four wins from 14 matches. Article Source: IANS
Conway, Bowlers Star As NZ Level Series With Clinical Win Over SA In 2nd T20I
Devon Conway: A disciplined all-round performance helped New Zealand register a convincing win over South Africa in the second T20I and level the five-game series 1-1 at Seddon Park in Hamilton on Tuesday. Asked to bat first, New Zealand built their innings around a steady knock from Devon Conway (60 off 49), who anchored the top order and ensured the hosts had a solid platform. The opener rotated the strike well and found timely boundaries, allowing New Zealand to recover whenever South Africas bowlers struck. South Africa managed to pick up wickets at regular intervals through their pace attack and spin options, preventing the hosts from running away with the innings in the middle overs. However, New Zealands batters ensured the run rate never dipped significantly, thanks to a 12-ball 21 and a 14-ball 20 by Nick Kelly and skipper Mitchell Santner, respectively. The hosts then accelerated in the closing stages of the innings, capitalising on a few loose deliveries to add valuable runs in the death overs and post a competitive total. The late flourish from Cole McConchie (18 off 12) and Josh Clarkson (26 not out off nine balls) proved crucial in pushing the score to a level that kept the pressure firmly on the visitors heading into the chase. Chasing a modest total, South Africa began cautiously with Wiaan Mulder and Connor Esterhuizen at the top. Mulder provided the early highlight with a powerful six off Kyle Jamieson, while Esterhuizen also cleared the ropes against Lockie Ferguson. Despite the occasional boundaries, New Zealands bowlers kept things tight and denied the visitors a strong start. The breakthrough came when Ben Sears had Esterhuizen caught at backward point, after which the hosts began to tighten their grip on the contest. Captain Santner struck to remove Mulder, who sliced a cut straight to Conway in the ring. Rubin Hermann briefly counter-attacked, striking Santner for a six and a four, but his promising stay ended when James Neesham had him caught by Ferguson in the deep. Santner continued to make an impact, dismissing Jason Smith to leave South Africa struggling in the middle overs. With wickets falling regularly, the visitors found it difficult to build partnerships. Cole McConchie and Sears chipped in with crucial strikes as New Zealands bowlers maintained relentless pressure. George Linde offered late resistance with a quickfire cameo, smashing multiple sixes to momentarily revive South Africas hopes. But his entertaining knock of 33 off just 12 balls ended when Ferguson forced a mistimed pull that was safely caught by McConchie at long-on, sealing the win. With that, New Zealand completed a comprehensive victory to level the series ahead of the third T20I of the five-match series. George Linde offered late resistance with a quickfire cameo, smashing multiple sixes to momentarily revive South Africas hopes. But his entertaining knock of 33 off just 12 balls ended when Ferguson forced a mistimed pull that was safely caught by McConchie at long-on, sealing the win. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand 175/6 in 20 overs (Devon Conway 60, Josh Clarkson 26*; Wiaan Mulder 2-14, Gerald Coetzee 1-28) beat South Africa 107/10 in 15.3 overs (George Linde 33, Rubin Hermann 19; Ben Sears 3-14, Lockie Ferguson 3-16) by 68 runs. Article Source: IANS
Suryakumar: 'The percentage I tried to get in school and college, I'm getting in cricket'
India wanted to win the [2026 T20] World Cup in India, and we wanted to win it in the same stadium in Ahmedabad, which was more important for us, Suryakumar Yadav says
Gavaskar hits out at Sunrisers for signing Abrar Ahmed in Men's Hundred
Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar calls franchise into question in scathing column in Indian newspaper
Devon Conway, bowlers star as New Zealand make it 1-1
Ben Sears and Lockie Ferguson took six wickets between them in an incisive display of quick bowling for NZ
New Zealand Players Gain Big In Latest Womens T20I Rankings After Victory Over SA
The White Ferns: New Zealands top white-ball performers have reaped the rewards in the latest update to the ICC Womens Player Rankings, following a dominant showing in recent home series against South Africa and Zimbabwe. The White Ferns are currently hosting South Africa in a five-match T20I series and made a flying start with an emphatic 80-run victory at Mount Maunganui on Sunday. While skipper Melie Kerr led the charge with a blistering 78-run knock, earning the Player of the Match award, many of her teammates made significant gains in the updated ICC rankings. Hard-hitting opener Georgia Plimmer climbed nine spots to 41st in the T20I batters rankings after her impactful innings of 63. Meanwhile, Jess Kerr improved by 11 places to 23rd, achieving a new career-high rating among T20I bowlers. Adding to the White Ferns list of success stories, former New Zealand captain Sophie Devine jumped six places to 11th in the T20I all-rounders list, following a four-wicket haul against the Proteas. The veteran all-rounder continues to defy age, making a major impact with both bat and ball. The updated rankings also reflected New Zealands dominance in the recently completed three-match ODI series against Zimbabwe, which the White Ferns swept 3-0. Maddy Green moved up five spots to 17th, while Melie Kerr climbed two places to equal 19th. Isabella Gaze also improved her position, rising three places to 61st in the ODI batters rankings. Adding to the White Ferns list of success stories, former New Zealand captain Sophie Devine jumped six places to 11th in the T20I all-rounders list, following a four-wicket haul against the Proteas. The veteran all-rounder continues to defy age, making a major impact with both bat and ball. Also Read: Live Cricket Score New Zealand and South Africa played out the second T20I of the five-match series on Tuesday, with the latter clinching an 18-run victory to level the series 1-1. Article Source: IANS
A Moment I Will Cherish For The Rest Of My Life, Says Pratika Rawal On Being Felicitated By DDCA
Delhi Sports Journalists Association: The Delhi & District Cricket Association honoured Indias World Cup champions, Pratika Rawal and Udhav Mohan, at the Sports Journalists Federation of India National Convention, hosted by the Delhi Sports Journalists Association on Monday. The recognition ceremony was held as part of the SJFI convention's Golden Jubilee celebrations, bringing together administrators, journalists, and sportspeople to acknowledge achievements in Indian sports. During the event, DDCA awarded Rawal, a member of Indias historic womens ODI World Cup win in 2025, a cash prize of 11 lakh. Additionally, Mohan, who won the Under-19 World Cup with the national junior team, received a prize of Rs. 11 lakh. Speaking at the ceremony, DDCA President Rohan Jaitley said, It is always special to recognise players who have risen through the Delhi system and gone on to represent the country with distinction. Achievements like these inspire countless young cricketers who dream of following the same path. As an association, we believe recognition and encouragement are important in nurturing the next generation of talent. Rawal regarded the honour as a memorable milestone in her journey as a cricketer developed through Delhis system. It feels really good when you are recognised on such a big stage, especially by the DDCA and by Rohan sir. It is a very privileged moment for me. I have played a lot of cricket for Delhi, and this is a moment I will cherish for the rest of my life, Rawal said. Speaking about the impact such gestures can have on young players entering the system, she added, When you perform at your best, recognition follows naturally, so its intertwined. When you receive that recognition it motivates you to perform even better the next time. It becomes a cycle where you perform well, get recognised and then feel encouraged to keep improving. I believe this will motivate many youngsters coming into the system, both girls and boys. For Mohan, this recognition marked an important milestone early in his career. The young Delhi cricketer, a member of Indias 2025/26 Under-19 World Cup winning team, trains at the West Delhi Cricket Academy under the guidance of renowned coach Rajkumar Sharma, who also mentored Indian cricket star Virat Kohli during his early development. First of all I am very thankful to DDCA. This is very motivating for us as cricketers because when we know our association supports us and stands behind our goals it pushes us to do even better. It encourages me to keep improving, play better cricket and make my state and country proud. At the end of the day, every cricketer wants to grow and improve, and here we get access to quality facilities, the opportunity to train and play on some of the best grounds, and an environment where we can make full use of those resources. We practise hard and try to become better players, Mohan said. Reflecting on his journey through the Delhi system, he added, I have always played for Delhi. I was picked in the Under 16 team and since then I have represented Delhi in Under 16 and Under 19 cricket before being part of the India Under 19 World Cup squad. Delhi has a very strong selection system where players have to prove themselves consistently and that helps bring the best talent forward. First of all I am very thankful to DDCA. This is very motivating for us as cricketers because when we know our association supports us and stands behind our goals it pushes us to do even better. It encourages me to keep improving, play better cricket and make my state and country proud. At the end of the day, every cricketer wants to grow and improve, and here we get access to quality facilities, the opportunity to train and play on some of the best grounds, and an environment where we can make full use of those resources. We practise hard and try to become better players, Mohan said. Also Read: Live Cricket Score We are also on the lines of making another international stadium and one of the core ideas behind that concept is accessibility. The aim is to ensure that individuals with mobility challenges, speech or vision impairments and those with sensory sensitivities are able to come to an international arena and enjoy the sport comfortably. Cricket should be experienced by everyone, he said. Article Source: IANS
Western Australia cling on nine down as Shipperd denied farewell NSW victory
A late surge from Liam Hatcher and Sean Abbott blew the game open but the home side couldn't quite claim the final wicket
Mumbai Indians Announce Tiered Ticket Sales For Home Matches
Indian Premier League: Mumbai Indians (MI) on Tuesday released the ticket sale schedule for their home matches in the first phase of the Indian Premier League (IPL) 2026, set to be played from March 28 to April 12. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) announced the schedule for the first phase of IPL 2026, in which Mumbai will play four matches. They will begin their campaign with a home clash against the Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) on March 29 at the iconic Wankhede Stadium, then get on the road for their next two away games against the Delhi Capitals (DC) and Rajasthan Royals (RR). The five-time champions will then return home for a mega rivalry clash against the Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB). Tickets, available exclusively as M-Tickets on the BookMyShow website and app, will be released in four phases with tiered access. In the first phase, Google Pay users (GPAY UPI) can book tickets from March 19, 12:00 IST to March 21, 12:00 IST. Phase two booking is for MI Gold, Silver, and Junior Members to gain early access, from March 21, 15:00 IST to March 22, 15:00 IST. In the third phase, MI Blue Members and pre-registered BookMyShow users can book from March 22, 17:00 IST to March 23, 17:00 IST, while sales open to the general public from March 23, 18:00 IST onwards as part of the fourth and final phase. The franchise clarified that members must have purchased their membership before 11:59 PM IST on March 19, 2026, to qualify for early access benefits. In the third phase, MI Blue Members and pre-registered BookMyShow users can book from March 22, 17:00 IST to March 23, 17:00 IST, while sales open to the general public from March 23, 18:00 IST onwards as part of the fourth and final phase. Also Read: Live Cricket Score The franchise officially kicked off their training camp on Monday, with veteran Rohit Sharma also uniting with the team ahead of the 19th edition of the cash-rich event. Article Source: IANS
It Was Destiny: Sourav Ganguly On Indias Historic 2001 Eden Gardens Win
Anil Kumble Bhai: Twenty-five years ago at Eden Gardens, India scripted one of the most remarkable victories in the history of Test cricket. The famous 2001 Test against Australia was revisited where Harbhajan Singh, Zaheer Khan and Venkatesh Prasad shared their memories of the iconic comeback, while Sourav Ganguly joined the session virtually. Reflecting on that extraordinary win, then India captain Sourav Ganguly said, It was destiny. It was a fairytale. I dont have a recipe for that. I didnt do that. It just happened. Among the architects of that victory was Harbhajan Singh, who played a pivotal role with the ball during the match. Speaking about his connection with the venue, he said, I came to this world due to my parents, but I dont know what I would be without Eden Gardens. He also recalled how he got the opportunity to play that Test. Whenever I come here, those memories come to mind. Of course, Anil Kumble Bhai got injured. John Wright wanted someone who could take wickets. They called everyone to bowl in the nets and thought I was the best of the lot. Ganguly insisted on having me. I was taking wickets in domestic cricket. Looking back at the final day of the match, Harbhajan added, I think on that fifth day we had the total on the board. Knowing Australia, they would come hard at us. When to declare and when not to declare was the question in the dressing room. In the end, around 74 to 76 overs were enough. Those superb catches by Rahul Dravid, Shiv Sundar Das and S Ramesh. That Test gave us belief. Venkatesh Prasad, who was also part of that memorable game, reflected on a moment that still lingers in his mind. I dropped a catch. I lost it because the crowd was behind me. In the tea session, it was hell for me. I was feeling rotten. It kept playing on TV. These two guys, commentators Ravi Shastri and Ian Chappell, kept talking about it. You dont want to be near the coach, John Wright. John said, Youve got to take those catches, man. Looking back at the final day of the match, Harbhajan added, I think on that fifth day we had the total on the board. Knowing Australia, they would come hard at us. When to declare and when not to declare was the question in the dressing room. In the end, around 74 to 76 overs were enough. Those superb catches by Rahul Dravid, Shiv Sundar Das and S Ramesh. That Test gave us belief. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Harbhajan also praised Ganguly and called him the best captain I played under. Recalling an incident that illustrated his leadership, he said, Once I was dropped in seaming conditions. Only one of Kumble or I could have played and it was the great Anil Bhai. The next day he called me. I didnt go. He called again but I was angry and didnt go. He even said, I am making coffee for you. A very nice guy. Zaheer added, Ganguly was very approachable. Article Source: IANS
Eid Hopes Turned Into Mourning: The Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB) has expressed deep grief and condemnation after a Pakistani airstrike on a major addiction treatment hospital in Kabul killed more than 400 people and injured at least 250 others, Taliban officials and local media reported, in what could become one of the deadliest incidents in the Afghan capital. Eid Hopes Turned Into Mourning. Afghanistan Cricket Board's leadership, along with the #AfghanAtalan lineup and staff, strongly condemns all acts of violence against innocent people. We stand in solidarity with the affected families and our people during this difficult time. What should have been moments of joy and celebration have instead turned into grief and heartbreak. Lives that were looking forward to Eid, to healing, and to a brighter tomorrow were tragically cut short, leaving behind shattered dreams and grieving families, the ACB penned on X. Condemning the airstrike, the ACB added, The Pakistani regime's devastating attack on a rehabilitation facility, resulting in the loss of hundreds of innocent lives and injuries to countless others, has deeply saddened us all. The occurrence of such a tragedy during Ramadan makes the pain even more profound. The board concluded by offering prayers for the victims and their families, stating, We ask the Almighty Allah to grant the victims the highest ranks in Jannah and bless their families with patience, strength, and peace. Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return. Earlier, Afghanistan all-rounder Rashid Khan condemned the reported civilian casualties from recent airstrikes, calling the targeting of civilian infrastructure a war crime and urging international bodies to investigate the incident. The board concluded by offering prayers for the victims and their families, stating, We ask the Almighty Allah to grant the victims the highest ranks in Jannah and bless their families with patience, strength, and peace. Indeed, we belong to Allah, and to Him we shall return. Also Read: Live Cricket Score I am deeply saddened by the latest reports of civilian casualties as a result of Pakistani airstrikes in Kabul. Targeting civilian homes, educational facilities or medical infrastructure, either intentional or by mistake, is a war crime. The sheer disregard for human lives, especially during the holy month of Ramadan, is sickening and deeply concerning. It will only fuel division and hatred. I call upon the UN and other human rights agencies to thoroughly investigate this latest atrocity and hold the perpetrators to account. I stand with my Afghan people in this difficult time. We shall heal, and we will rise as a nation. We always do. Inshallah, he wrote. Article Source: IANS
Incredible: Riyan Parag Reflects On Premier League Experience
India Super Fan: Indian cricketer and Premier League India Super Fan Riyan Parag was in the UK for a week to get a firsthand look at the Leagues matches. The new Rajasthan Royals captain spent his time watching live Premier League games, meeting players, and immersing himself in the atmosphere, before rejoining his teammates for the upcoming IPL season. As the Premier League season approaches its end, Manchester City, eight-time champions, chase league leaders Arsenal. Parag experienced the thrill shared by countless fans while watching City face West Ham United live at the 62,500-capacity London Stadium. The game ended in a 1-1 draw. Reflecting on his matchday experience, Parag said, The Premier League has a massive following in India and its something Ive followed since I was a kid. Being at the London Stadium and hearing the fans in full voice, the chants, the energy, the whole atmosphere, it was honestly incredible. The way the stadium echoes when everyone gets behind the team is something special. In India we feel that same emotion around cricket, so you immediately connect with it. Being there in person and to be living the dream of millions of fans back home was a great experience. Earlier this week, Parag had an immersive look into West Ham Uniteds preparations for the weekend match by visiting their training ground to observe the squad. During his visit, he met West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen, and they discussed topics such as captaincy, managing pressure at the top level, and similarities in preparing for important game days. Reflecting on his matchday experience, Parag said, The Premier League has a massive following in India and its something Ive followed since I was a kid. Being at the London Stadium and hearing the fans in full voice, the chants, the energy, the whole atmosphere, it was honestly incredible. The way the stadium echoes when everyone gets behind the team is something special. In India we feel that same emotion around cricket, so you immediately connect with it. Being there in person and to be living the dream of millions of fans back home was a great experience. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Parag finished his week with a visit to the Premier League Productions studio in London, the central hub for broadcasting the Premier League across 189 countries worldwide. He observed all the behind-the-scenes activities and met with Premier League legend and Ballon dOr winner, Michael Owen. Article Source: IANS
T20 World Cup: In a thrilling contest at Hamilton on Tuesday, South Africas young all-rounder Kayla Reyneke earned widespread praise from captain Laura Wolvaardt after her side levelled the five-match T20I series against New Zealand 1-1 with an 18-run victory. Reynekes explosive finishing act, three successive sixes off veteran Sophie Devine in the final over, lifted South Africa to a competitive 177/5 in the second T20I at Seddon Park. Though she scored just 28 not out from nine balls, her cameo proved decisive as New Zealand fell short while chasing the target. It was hard to sort of just come in and get going straight away, so I'm not too sure how Kayla did that. That was some really clean power hitting. It is really nice with the ball striking that we have in our lineup and to know that we have power like that still to come, Wolvaardt said after the match. Reyneke, who previously captained South Africa to the final of the ICC Womens Under-19 T20 World Cup in 2025, earned her first senior international call-up last month during a home T20I series against Pakistan. She had made a mark in that debut series with 29 not out and two wickets to claim the Player of the Match award. Against the White Ferns, she replicated her impact with a crucial late-innings flourish, further boosting her credentials for selection at this years ICC Womens T20 World Cup. It was hard to sort of just come in and get going straight away, so I'm not too sure how Kayla did that. That was some really clean power hitting. It is really nice with the ball striking that we have in our lineup and to know that we have power like that still to come, Wolvaardt said after the match. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Her performance not only swung the match in South Africas favour but also underlined the emergence of a promising talent who could become a key figure in the Proteas line-up for the upcoming global tournament. Article Source: IANS
Mulder in as SA bowl; Clarkson, Ferguson in for NZ
South Africa kept the same attack that bowled New Zealand out for 91 with no room for experienced quick Lutho Sipamla
IPL 2026: Langer, Moody Present LSG Jerseys To Groundsmen At Ekana
Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari: Ahead of the 19th IPL season starting on March 28, Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) head coach Justin Langer and Director of Cricket Tom Moody presented jerseys to the groundsmen at their home ground, the Bharat Ratna Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, on Tuesday. LSG will kick off their IPL 2026 campaign at home on April 1 against the Delhi Capitals before heading to Hyderabad for the second fixture against the Sunrisers on April 5. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has announced only part of the schedule, in which LSG are slated to play a total of four games. The Rishabh Pant-led side will also face the Kolkata Knight Riders at the iconic Edemn Gardens on April 9, before returning home to play the Gujarat Titans on April 12. With preparations already underway and players now joining camp and starting training, Langer and Moody demonstrated a kind gesture towards the ground staff by presenting them with the franchises newest jersey. Sharing pictures of the moment, the franchise wrote on X, For our groundsmen, straight from our heart. LSG began their training camp on Monday, with the franchise stating that Pant and veteran pacer Mohammed Shami are expected to join the squad on Tuesday, having arrived in the city late on Monday. During Monday's session, batters Akshat Raghuvanshi, Abdul Samad, and Himmat Singh, along with all-rounders Ayush Badoni, Shahbaz Ahmed, and Arshin Kulkarni, impressed in the nets. The pace attack of Arjun Tendulkar, Mayank Yadav, Avesh Khan, and wrist-spinner Digvesh Rathi earned praise from the coaching staff for their speed and accuracy. LSG began their training camp on Monday, with the franchise stating that Pant and veteran pacer Mohammed Shami are expected to join the squad on Tuesday, having arrived in the city late on Monday. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Since their first appearance in 2022, LSG have reached the playoffs twice, in 2022 and 2023, and finished seventh in the points table in 2024 and 2025. Currently, LSG is the only active team to have never reached an IPL final. Article Source: IANS
Khaka, Mlaba Guide South Africa To Series-levelling Win Against New Zealand In 2nd T20I
South Africa Women: South Africa Women delivered a clinical all-round performance to beat New Zealand Women by 18 runs in the second T20I of the five-match series, relying on a strong batting display from the top-order batters and disciplined bowling by Ayabonga Khaka and Nonkululeko Mlaba to gain control of the match. Asked to bat first, South Africa got off to a brisk start through Sune Luus and Tazmin Brits, who stitched together a fluent 62-run opening stand. Luus was the early aggressor, striking 31 off 21 balls with five boundaries and a six before falling to Amelia Kerr. Brits then took charge, anchoring the innings with a well-crafted 53 off 43 deliveries, laced with five fours and three sixes. Captain Laura Wolvaardt provided stability in the middle overs with a composed 41 off 33 balls, ensuring the innings did not lose momentum despite regular wickets. South Africa crossed the 100-run mark in the 11th over, but a brief slowdown followed as New Zealands spinners applied the brakes. However, a late flourish turned the tide decisively. Kayla Reyneke provided the finishing kick with a blistering unbeaten 28 off just nine balls, smashing three consecutive sixes in the final over off Sophie Devine. Her late onslaught propelled South Africa to a formidable 177/5 in their 20 overs. In response, New Zealand began on a positive note despite losing a couple of early wickets. Amelia Kerr counterattacked with a quickfire 32 off 18 balls, striking six boundaries, while Sophie Devine added 25 off 18 as the hosts raced to 71/3 inside seven overs. Just as New Zealand looked well-placed, South Africas bowlers triggered a collapse. Ayabonga Khaka led the charge with a superb spell, finishing with 4-27, removing key batters including Maddy Green and Brooke Halliday in quick succession. Left-arm spinner Nonkululeko Mlaba complemented her brilliantly, claiming 3-27 and breaking the crucial partnership by dismissing both Amelia Kerr and, later, Suzie Bates. The middle overs proved decisive as New Zealand lost wickets at regular intervals, slipping from a promising position to 111/7. Despite a late effort from Izzy Sharp, who top-scored with 29, and a brief cameo from Jess Kerr (14), the required rate kept climbing. South Africa maintained composure in the death overs, with Khaka returning to pick up another wicket and seal the game. A run-out in the final over ended New Zealands innings at 159/9, falling 18 runs short. The middle overs proved decisive as New Zealand lost wickets at regular intervals, slipping from a promising position to 111/7. Despite a late effort from Izzy Sharp, who top-scored with 29, and a brief cameo from Jess Kerr (14), the required rate kept climbing. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Brief scores: South Africa Women 177/5 in 20 overs (Tazmin Brits 53, Laura Wolvaardt 41; Amelia Kerr 2-29, Jess Kerr 2-34) beat New Zealand Women 159/10 in 19.1 overs (Amelia Kerr 32, Izzy Sharp 29; Ayabonga Khaka 4-27, Nonkululeko Mlaba 3-27) by 18 runs. Article Source: IANS
Brits, Reyneke, Khaka and Mlaba headline South Africa's series-levelling win
Amelia Kerr put in an excellent all-round performance for New Zealand, but South Africa fired on all cylinders, with the bat and the ball and in the field, to run out 18-run victors
Out-Of-Favour Liam Livingstone Says 'No-One Cares' In England Set-Up
Liam Livingstone has slammed the England hierarchy following his exile from international cricket, saying no-one cares about you when you are dropped. The Lancashire all-rounder has exactly 100 caps for his country across all three formats but has not featured for over a year. In an interview with ESPN Cricinfo, the 32-year-old was highly critical of his treatment by England director of cricket Rob Key. He also described his time at last year's Champions Trophy as the worst experience I've had playing cricket and said he did not miss being involved in the recent T20 World Cup. The England and Wales Cricket Board's Ashes review, covering tour planning and preparation, individual performance and behaviours after the 4-1 thrashing in Australia, is still ongoing. Livingstone, reflecting on a lack of communication after his dropping in a brief phone call by England coach Brendon McCullum in May, said: I don't think it would have reached a minute. I asked why; they said they wanted to try someone else. That was off Baz (McCullum). Brooky (captain Harry Brook) sent me a text. Keysy said nothing, (he) said 'I'll speak to you in the summer'. I actually rang him one day, and he said he was busy at a Test camp at Loughborough and then I didn't hear off him until the end of September. That probably sums that group up as a collective. That was a bit of an eye-opening experience about the group and the regime: if you're in, you're in, and if you're not in, no-one cares about you. Livingstone, still in demand on the franchise circuit, with a 1 million ($1.32 million) IPL deal from Sunrisers Hyderabad and a 350,000 bid from London Spirit at last week's Hundred auction, insisted: I still believe I'm one of the best players in white-ball cricket in England. Just because I'm not playing for England, because of a couple of peoples opinions, it doesn't mean that I'm not good enough to do it. As for missing the T20 World Cup in Sri Lanka and India, where Will Jacks performed well in Livingstone's old role of spinner and hard-hitting batsman, he said: I didn't miss it one bit. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There wasn't any part of me that was wishing I was playing in that team, to be honest.
Sunil Gavaskar Condemns Indian-Owned Franchise For Signing Pakistan Bowler
India cricket legend Sunil Gavaskar has alleged that the signing of Pakistan spinner Abrar Ahmed by an Indian-owned Hundred franchise in England indirectly contributes to the deaths of Indian soldiers and civilians. Players from Pakistan have not featured in the Indian Premier League (IPL) since 2009 because of deep-seated diplomatic tensions between the two nations. There was speculation that Pakistan players involved at the inaugural Hundred auction in London would be subject to a shadow ban, with IPL-affiliated teams refusing to bid for them. That did not come to pass, but Sunrisers Leeds -- from the same group that controls IPL team Sunrisers Hyderabad -- faced a fierce social media backlash after last week clinching a deal for Abrar, paying 190,000 ($252,000) for his services. Former India captain Gavaskar, 76, launched a blistering attack in a weekend column for the Indian newspaper Mid-Day. The fees that they pay to a Pakistani player, who then pays income tax to his government, which buys arms and weapons, indirectly contributes to the deaths of Indian soldiers and civilians, he wrote. Whether it is an Indian entity or an overseas subsidiary of the entity that is making the payment, if the owner is Indian then he or she is contributing to the Indian casualties. Three other Hundred franchises -- MI London, Manchester Super Giants and Southern Brave -- are at least part-owned by companies that control IPL teams. Usman Tariq, the only other Pakistani player bought in auction, was picked up by American-backed Birmingham Phoenix. The England and Wales Cricket Board last month issued a statement saying all eight franchises in the 100-ball-a-side competition were committed to selection based solely on performances. India and Pakistan, who were engaged in a deadly conflict in May last year, have not played a bilateral series in more than a decade and meet only in global or regional tournaments. Also Read: Live Cricket Score There's still time to undo the wrong and hopefully wiser counsels will prevail, added Gavaskar, the first batsman to score 10,000 runs in Test cricket.
Injury Setback Halts Dane Van Niekerk's Comeback Tour
Cricket South Africa: Dane van Niekerks long-awaited return to international cricket has faced an obstacle. The all-rounder will not join the South Africa women's national team on their ongoing tour of New Zealand due to a calf injury. The former captain reversed her international retirement last year but already missed the opening match and will take no further part in the series. Cricket South Africa confirmed the news in an official update. Proteas Women all-rounder Dan van Niekerk will miss the rest of the tour to New Zealand due to a right calf injury. Van Niekerk felt discomfort the day before the first T20 International (T20I). A scan showed the injury's extent, which will need rehabilitation. Fidelity Titans Anneke Bosch has been called up as her replacement, the Proteas Women posted on X. In her absence, Anneke Bosch rejoins the T20I setup, marking her first appearance in the format since November 2024. This injury is a significant setback for van Niekerk, who has been striving for a spot in South Africas squad for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 after missing the last two editions. Her journey back has not been easy. A veteran of 110 ODIs and 91 T20Is, van Niekerk was dropped in 2022 for not meeting fitness standards and announced her retirement in March 2023. Since then, she has worked hard to return through domestic cricket, playing for Western Province and earning a call-up to the national team in late 2025 during a home series against Ireland. In her absence, Anneke Bosch rejoins the T20I setup, marking her first appearance in the format since November 2024. This injury is a significant setback for van Niekerk, who has been striving for a spot in South Africas squad for the ICC Women's T20 World Cup 2026 after missing the last two editions. Also Read: Live Cricket Score Meanwhile, the multi-format series in New Zealand, featuring five T20Is and three ODIs as part of the Womens Championship, has posed additional challenges for the visitors. Mens batter Jordan Hermann is also out due to a hamstring injury. Article Source: IANS
