'The Big Show' Signs Off: Glenn Maxwell Retires From International Cricket
Glenn Maxwell, the star Australian all-rounder, announced his retirement from international cricket on Monday
Glenn Maxwell retires from international cricket
The 38-year-old Australian also calls time on his first-class and List A career but remains available for Melbourne Stars in the BBL
Glenn Maxwell Announces Retirement From International Cricket: Report
The Big Show: Australia's explosive all-rounder Glenn Maxwell announced his retirement from international cricket on Monday, bringing the curtain down on a career spanning more than a decade across all three formats. According to ESPNcricinfo, Maxwell, who represented Australia in 286 international matches, scored 7,226 runs and claimed 136 wickets during his career. Nicknamed 'The Big Show', the 38-year-old was a key member of Australia's successful campaigns in the 2015 and 2023 ODI World Cups and the 2021 T20 World Cup. After making his International debut in an ODI against Afghanistan in 2012, Maxwell went onto become one of the most destructive white-ball batters of his generation, known for his unorthodox stroke-play, power-hitting and how he can change the course of a game. Maxwell is also the joint holder of most T20I centuries five with India's Rohit Sharma. One of the turning points of his career was the 2023 ODI World Cup league-stage game with Afghanistan at the Wankhede Stadium in Mumbai. With cramps and his movement, Maxwell scored an incredible 201 not out off only 128 balls as Australia defeated Afghanistan by three wickets while chasing 292. Before Maxwell's miraculous innings, Australia had been 91/7 and seemingly on the brink of defeat in the seventh over. Maxwell's last Test for Australia was in 2017, with the Australia batsman having played 7 matches. He has largely been confined to limited-overs cricket since and has been significantly more successful in that format. He had earlier declared his quit from ODI cricket after the 2025 Champions Trophy, with a parting shot of 3,990 runs in the format. His last T20I was against Oman in February this year. Maxwell's last Test for Australia was in 2017, with the Australia batsman having played 7 matches. He has largely been confined to limited-overs cricket since and has been significantly more successful in that format. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
England's white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum is determined to shape a team capable of challenging for major trophies, with next year's 50-over World Cup firmly on his radar, as he prepares to return to Australia for a three-match ODI series.
IPL Teams Get More Time to Lock in Retentions
The IPL has extended the retention deadline to November 17, with the December 16 Goa mini-auction marking the final player auction before the 2028 mega auction.
ICC Receives 120 Million Ticket Requests For 2027 Men's Cricket World Cup
2.8 million unique fans from 193 countries have registered for the opportunity to purchase tickets for the 14th edition of ODI cricket's showpiece event, according to ICC Media release.
Australian allrounder Glenn Maxwell announces retirement from international cricket
Australian allrounder Glenn Maxwell on Monday announced his retirement from international cricket, bringing an end to his over a decade-long career. Known for his aggressive style of play, the 38-year-old had represented Australia across all three...
McCullum Eyes World Cup Glory, Says England Want To Play 'high-octane, Robust' Cricket
Western Australia XI: England's white-ball head coach Brendon McCullum is determined to shape a team capable of challenging for major trophies, with next year's 50-over World Cup firmly on his radar, as he prepares to return to Australia for a three-match ODI series. McCullum, who was sacked as England's Test head coach midway through the English summer following a disappointing Ashes campaign last winter, said his focus was now firmly on improving the white-ball sides and building towards the World Cup. You can't really go back on the four years that you've had. You're just grateful for the opportunity that you got. With 12 months to go into a World Cup, it's a great opportunity to zero in and laser your focus on exactly where you think the areas are that you can get some improvement into these guys. And winning a World Cup would be amazing, but we know we're going to have to get better between now and then, McCullum said. England will begin their three-match ODI series against Australia at Perth's Optus Stadium on November 13, returning to the venue where their disastrous Ashes campaign began with a two-day defeat in the opening Test last year. However, McCullum insisted that his attention was firmly on the challenges ahead, describing the Australian tour as an opportunity for his inexperienced squad to test its methods and continue developing in the build-up to the World Cup. Firstly, it's nice to be back. An Australia tour is always a great tour. The cricket's always pretty competitive. We'll play at some great stadiums, against a good side, and continue to test our methods, towards the one-day World Cup. We know we need to keep getting better, but we've been presented with some good opportunities, and this will be one of those the next couple of weeks, he said. McCullum also outlined the aggressive approach he wants England to adopt, stressing that the demands of their playing style would require a greater emphasis on fitness and preparation. We want to play a high-octane, robust style of play, which demands fitness elements to it. So for us, this is a great opportunity to have a little fitness block in and around the demand of this series, he added. England will also play a 50-over warm-up against a Western Australia XI at the WACA on November 7 as part of their preparations for the series. The former New Zealand captain acknowledged the challenge of adjusting to the pace and bounce of the Optus Stadium surface, describing it as having a 'trampoline bounce', but preferred to focus on the broader preparation for the tour. England head into the Australia series after a disappointing campaign in the Pakistan tri-series, where they finished at the bottom of the standings after losing three of their four matches, missing out on the final. Despite the disappointment, McCullum felt the experience would benefit a relatively inexperienced squad as it continues to build towards next year's global event. Yeah, it was disappointing. Obviously, it was great to play in the tri-series. With the view towards the World Cup, the ability to be able to bounce between games, and different tactics, and different oppositions was good. We obviously didn't quite achieve what we wanted to, but we played some really good cricket and learned some great lessons. They should hold you in good stead in 12 months, he said. We've got a pretty inexperienced team. These guys haven't played a lot of one-day cricket, so any opportunity to get experience and education, and those pressure moments, so that you can start to just understand a little bit better, it's going to be good. England have won 11 and lost 11 of their last 22 ODIs since Harry Brook replaced Jos Buttler as captain, highlighting the work still required to establish consistency in the format. McCullum, meanwhile, was reluctant to revisit England's Ashes disappointment, acknowledging that opportunities had been missed but insisting that his priorities had shifted. I like to focus on what's coming and I think this is a very different side. This is a different form of the game. The Test stuff, I had a great time while I was there, but my focus is very much on trying to make this cricket team the very best team that we can be, and to challenge seriously for trophies, he said. Reflecting on his four-year stint with the Test team, McCullum described it as one of the most rewarding experiences of his cricketing career and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to now help shape England's white-ball future. I loved the four years that I had with the Test team. It was one of the greatest experiences I've had in the game and I'm forever grateful for the chance. But the good thing is, I get the opportunity to try, alongside Brookie (Harry Brook) and some key people, to help shape the one-day side and the T20 side moving forward. And that's very much where my focus is, he added. Reflecting on his four-year stint with the Test team, McCullum described it as one of the most rewarding experiences of his cricketing career and expressed gratitude for the opportunity to now help shape England's white-ball future. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
McCullum puts focus on ODI preparation as England return to scene of Ashes calamity
Head coach wants to use build-up to first ODI at Optus Stadium to focus on squad's fitness
Bowled Through The Gate: Mohammed Shami Cleans Up Prithvi Shaw In Ranji Trophy Faceoff
Veteran India pacer Mohammed Shami got the better of Prithvi Shaw in Bengal's match against Maharashtra in the Ranji Trophy.
Whenever A Team Comes Out, I Have Expectations, Says Sarfaraz Khan On India A Snub
Sarfaraz Khan: Overlooked for the India A tour of New Zealand, Mumbai batter Sarfaraz Khan has admitted he had hoped for a call-up, but said he would keep scoring runs in domestic cricket and leave selection to the selectors. Sarfaraz, who last played for India nearly two years ago against New Zealand in the 2024 Test at the Wankhede Stadium, made 55 on day one of Mumbais Ranji Trophy match against Railways at the Brabourne Stadium on Monday. Obviously. Whenever a team comes out, I have expectations. But its okay. Its in their (selectors) hands whether to select me or not. My job is to play cricket, Sarfaraz told reporters in a post-day chat. Sarfaraz was recalled to the Test squad for the two-match series against Sri Lanka in August as a replacement for the injured Sai Sudharsan, but did not get a game. It was in that dressing room, he said, that he learnt how the selectors viewed him. The selectors didnt say it to me directly, but when I went to the Indian team recently, I heard that they are looking at me more for Indian conditions, he said. Sarfaraz questioned that thinking, pointing to his record overseas. But still I have a question, that when I went to (South) Africa, I scored runs (for India A). When I went to England, I scored. So sometimes when you make a comeback and you get a rank turner in India, suddenly you cant perform very well on a difficult wicket after scoring in domestic cricket. Or if you do, then 30-40-50 runs are enough on it. But it is not that I have not scored runs outside (India). I have scored outside too. So its okay. Ye unka nazariya hai (This is the selectors perspective). My job is to play cricket. And I will play. The numbers back him up. In seven first-class matches for India A in overseas conditions, Sarfaraz has scored 300 runs at an average of exactly 50, with three half-centuries. Those games came in South Africa in 2021 and 2023, Bangladesh in 2022 and England in May 2025. After his Test team recall, Sarfaraz was then named vice-captain of the Rest of India side for the Irani Cup against Ranji Trophy champions Jammu and Kashmir a month ago, scoring 45 and 0. Back in the Ranji Trophy, Sarfaraz has scores of 1, 154, 40 and 55 this season, at an average of 62.50. But more than a decade after his Ranji debut in 2014, he said starting over every season had not been easy. Its very difficult to score runs every season. I think I am still doing the same thing that I did with my father in the beginning. Its the same thing. I dont take off in the off-season, and I practice and keep batting. I dont know how many runs I am going to make. But when I came to Ranji Trophy 10-11 years ago, I worked hard the same way. I have the same routine. Everyone knows If you want to meet Sarfaraz Khan, you dont have to go to his house, you can meet him at Azad Maidan or Cross Maidan at 6 in the morning. Its very difficult to restart every year, come every year and work hard. Sometimes you get success, sometimes you dont. But this is my job, I can't do anything, he added. Having already realised his dream of an India cap in 2024, Sarfaraz said his father Naushad Khan remains his biggest source of motivation. So many things have happened. I am not thinking much. I wake up every morning and ask myself the same question, why should I work harder? I have played for India, but I wake up at 5 in the morning and go (to train). I can play for Ranji Trophy with normal hard work. Im still scoring 30, 40, 50, 100. So sometimes I get these questions in my head. But its okay. When I see that my father is working hard, he is sweating it out, then its okay. I will go and score for him. It motivates me to wake up every morning. Everyone knows that I dont have (any other) support in my life. If I have support, its only from my father. No one has supported me in my life. But its okay. I worked hard; I fulfilled my fathers dream (by playing for India). Its not easy to play for India, especially in this generation. And its not like I scored once or twice and played for India. I scored 300, 200, 250 (in domestic cricket) and worked hard and played for India. Motivation is to play cricket, thats it. Wherever I get a chance, I will play cricket. When its off-season, I dont like to sit at home. I think Im made for cricket. Wherever I get an opportunity (If) Ranji Trophy, Mushtaq Ali, Vijay Hazare, IPL, Indian team calls me, I will go. If India A calls me, I will go. I want to play cricket, he elaborated. After being dropped from the Test side in 2024, Sarfaraz went on a strict diet and exercise regime last year and brought his weight down from 97 kg to 77 kg. Pictures of the transformation went viral on social media, though Sarfaraz said nobody in the India or Mumbai set-ups had asked him to slim down. No one told me that I have to lose weight. But whatever I heard on social media, or from someone, that maybe I should lose weight. So I did it. Because whatever I hear, that I should work on something, I am doing that in my life. I cant do anything more than that. In reality, I was overweight. There is no doubt about that. After being dropped from the Test side in 2024, Sarfaraz went on a strict diet and exercise regime last year and brought his weight down from 97 kg to 77 kg. Pictures of the transformation went viral on social media, though Sarfaraz said nobody in the India or Mumbai set-ups had asked him to slim down. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Pradoshs sweeping success against Chandigarh
Deepti, Sneh reflect as India celebrates womens maiden ODI WC triumph anniversary
Digital Desk | New Delhi, Nov 2 (IANS) Past and present players marked the first anniversary of the Womens ODI World Cup triumph on Monday. Exactly on this day in 2025, Harmanpreet Kaurs side beat South Africa by 52 runs in the final at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai and lifted their maiden ICC Womens ODI World Cup title on home soil. Deepti Sharma, the Player of the Tournament, marked the anniversary with a video on her Instagram account. Some moments stay with you for a lifetime and this one will always be special. Reliving it every day makes me feel more grateful and motivates me further to give my extra to put smiles on the faces of millions of fans who support us everyday, she wrote. All-rounder Sneh Rana also remembered the epic night in Navi Mumbai by writing on her Instagram account, 2.NOV.2025. The emotional rush on this day last year will remain the highest dopamine rush for a long long time. One year went by in a whisker, and the memory of lifting the world cup for the first time for our country as a women cricketer, remains as fresh as a daisy. On this day the nostalgia hit me hard, still giving me horripilation. Congratulations to all of us in remembering the best day till date in the Womens Cricket History. Congratulations on completing 1 year of the legendary World Cup Win. Former captain Mithali Raj, in a post on X, also remembered the triumphant scenes in Navi Mumbai. A year ago, a dream nurtured by generations of Indian women cricketers became reality. Watching Harmanpreet and her team lift the Womens ODI World Cup was an incredibly special moment. It was a victory built on years of perseverance, sacrifice and belief. Proud of this journey, grateful to have been a part of it, and delighted to see the next generation take Indian womens cricket to new heights. Some moments belong to generations. This was one of them, she wrote. The BCCI also shared a series of pictures and posts in which then-captain Harmanpreet, current skipper Smriti Mandhana and head coach Amol Muzumdar reflected on the win. Indias run to the title was shaped by many players. Deepti finished as the leading wicket-taker with 22 scalps and also scored 215 runs. Her 5-39 and half-century in the final sealed her Player of the Tournament award. Smriti Mandhana made 434 runs, including a century, the most by an Indian woman in a single edition of the ODI World Cup. Jemimah Rodrigues scored 292 runs, with her unbeaten 127 in the semifinal against Australia, being one of the defining moments of the triumphant campaign. Harmanpreet made 260 runs as captain, including hitting a crucial 89 in that semifinal against Australia. Wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh amassed 235 runs, including hitting 13 sixes, the most by an Indian batter in the tournament. Shafali Verma, coming as a late injury replacement for Pratika Rawal, was named Player of the Match for her knock of 87 off 78 balls, and also took 2-36 with the ball.
Rohit Sharma On Cusp Of 5 Massive Milestones In India vs New Zealand ODI Series
Rohit Sharma will have plenty of records to break and milestones to climb as India awaits the New Zealand challenge in a high-octane five-match ODI series.
Pradoshs unbeaten century powers TN
Siraj excited to operate in helpful conditions
The pacer says he wants to keep working hard and win matches for the country
Gujarat Govt Awards Over Rs 9.27 Crore To 18 Asian Games, Para Asian Games Athletes
Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi: The Gujarat government on Monday announced cash awards totalling more than Rs 9.27 crore for 18 athletes who represented India at the Asian Games and Para Asian Games, with para-athletes among the biggest beneficiaries. Deputy Chief Minister Harsh Sanghavi presented the awards to medal winners and participating athletes at a felicitation ceremony in Gandhinagar, recognising their performances at international sporting events. Among the recipients, para-athlete Anjanaben Rohitbhai Bumbadiya received Rs two crore for winning a gold medal at the Para Asian Games. Nimisha C.S. was awarded Rs one crore for her silver medal in long jump, while Tejalben Damor received a total of Rs 1.5 crore for winning silver and bronze medals. Rakeshbhai Bhatt was awarded Rs one crore for winning two bronze medals in the 100-metre and 200-metre races. In para table tennis, Bhavinaben Patel received Rs 75 lakh for winning two bronze medals, while Sonalben Patel was awarded Rs 50 lakh for a bronze medal. Manush Shah, who won a bronze medal in table tennis, received Rs 25 lakh. The Indian men's cricket team players Jasprit Bumrah and Axar Patel were each awarded Rs 66 lakh, while women's team cricketer Radha Yadav also received Rs 66 lakh. The government also extended financial assistance to athletes who participated in various sporting events. Manav Thakkar received Rs 5 lakh, Harmeet Desai Rs 2.5 lakh, Aryan Nehra Rs 5 lakh, Ankita Raina Rs 2.5 lakh, Aniket Patel Rs 2.5 lakh, Mitwa Chaudhary Rs 5 lakh, Bhavikkumar Bharwad Rs 5 lakh and Vishnu Vaghela Rs 1.65 lakh. Speaking at the ceremony, Sanghavi said: Gujarat's young athletes have made the country proud through their determination and hard work on the international stage. Their achievements will inspire future generations and strengthen India's commitment to sports. The state government is committed to providing athletes with the best training, facilities and support. The government said the incentive amounts for athletes who could not attend the ceremony because of sporting commitments or other reasons would be transferred directly to their bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system. Speaking at the ceremony, Sanghavi said: Gujarat's young athletes have made the country proud through their determination and hard work on the international stage. Their achievements will inspire future generations and strengthen India's commitment to sports. The state government is committed to providing athletes with the best training, facilities and support. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sarfaraz Khan: 'Everyday I ask myself why I should work harder'
The Mumbai batter last played for India two years ago but remains unfazed, as he still churns out runs in the domestic circuit
Paliwal takes inspiration from Dogras journey
IPL 2027 Retention Deadline Extended, Report Claims New Date
The IPL 2027 auction, which will be held in Goa on December 16, will reportedly see an extension of its retention deadline
IPL retention deadline extended till November 17
The extension is understood to have been prompted by the India-New Zealand ODI series, with the fifth and final match scheduled to be played on November 15
Team India head coach Gautam Gambhir continues to face criticism over his decision to drop Vaibhav Sooryavanshi in the 4th and 5th T20Is against New Zealand.
Sarfaraz Khan: The only person who supported me was my father, nobody else
Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Ritesh and Shikhar do it for Karnataka
The visitor bowls out Assam for 135 before reaching 180 for two
Ranji Trophy: Late strikes help Railways keep Mumbai in check on day one
The home team claims three wickets in the final session to reduce the heavyweight to 247 for six at close; Raghuvanshi and Safrfaraz score half-centuries
Harsh Dubeys nine-wicket haul helps Vidarbha spin out Madhya Pradesh for 209
Ranji Trophy: Bengal batters come a cropper on a truncated opening day
The host is skittled out for 143 as Maharashtra bowlers Dadhe, Sanghavi, Hangargekar and Veer hit the right areas to strike consistently; Shami impresses with a late burst
Sivaramakrishnan Appointed Spin Bowling Coach At Assam Cricket Association Academy
Assam Cricket Association: Former India leg-spinner Laxman Sivaramakrishnan has been appointed as the spin bowling coach at the Assam Cricket Associations (ACA) cricket academy on a one-year contract starting this month. Sivaramakrishnan, who made a name for himself with big, looping leg-breaks, googlies and top-spinners, will work with young and promising spinners at the ACA Cricket Academy in Fulung, North Guwahati, where he will run a structured coaching programme, the association said in a statement on Monday, issued by its secretary, Sanatan Das. The appointment gives the academys spinners the chance to learn the craft of leg-spin from one of its best-known Indian exponents. Chennai-based Sivaramakrishnan enjoyed a successful career in both Test and ODI cricket for India. He was instrumental in the teams successful run at the Benson & Hedges World Championship of Cricket, held in Australia in 1985. He made his international debut as a teenager and went on to play nine Tests and 16 ODIs, taking 26 and 15 wickets respectively. His best Test figures of 6-64 came against England in Mumbai in 1984. After his playing days, he became a prominent commentator, known for his insights on spin bowling and the game. The former leg-spinner also served as a player representative on the ICC Cricket Committee. Sivaramakrishnan, 60, has already visited the academy - on October 18, he took a session at the ACA Cricket Academy on the finer nuances of leg-spin bowling. The appointment comes after the 60-year-old publicly expressed his interest in joining IPL franchise Lucknow Super Giants (LSG) as a coach. In a post on X addressed to LSG owner Sanjiv Goenka, he offered his services and said he was confident he could make a difference to the franchises spin attack. The former leg-spinner also served as a player representative on the ICC Cricket Committee. Sivaramakrishnan, 60, has already visited the academy - on October 18, he took a session at the ACA Cricket Academy on the finer nuances of leg-spin bowling. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Why Should I Work Hard? Sarfaraz Khan Airs Frustration After Prolonged Wait For India Recall
Why should I work hard? Middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan on Monday sounded bitter after improved fitness and consistent runs in domestic cricket failed to secure him a return to the Indian Test team.
Ranji Trophy: Railways Stage Dramatic Fightback Vs Mumbai
Railways staged a strong comeback on Day One of their Ranji Trophy Group D clash against Mumbai, taking three quick wickets late in the day to leave Mumbai at 247/6 at stumps. Mumbai had built a strong foundation with Angkrish Raghuvanshi scoring 78 and Sarfaraz Khan adding 55, but Himanshu Sangwan and Adarsh Singh led the Railways' fightback.
India Face Resurgent New Zealand After T20I Setback
A clean sweep in New Zealand would have been a significant statement. Now, India's ODI team will have to deliver that statement, points out K R Nayar.
IPL 2027 retention deadline moved to November 17
The retention deadline was earlier supposed to be on November 15
Ireland Batter Rebecca Stokell Accepts Voluntary Suspension Over Anti-doping Breach
The International Cricket Council: Ireland womens batter Rebecca Stokell has accepted a voluntary suspension after admitting to an anti-doping rule violation linked to her use of prescription medication. Rebecca is now awaiting the outcome of an International Cricket Council (ICC) investigation. Rebecca has accepted responsibility for an inadvertent breach of the reporting requirements around the use of prescription medication. While the breach was unintentional and the substance has been acknowledged as non-performance enhancing, she has admitted that she did not comply with the regulations and accepts that she is likely to be suspended from the game. The sample was collected during an in-competition test on June 23, and her suspension has been in effect since October 23. Any sanction will be decided once the ICCs disciplinary process has run its course. The International Cricket Council has announced that Ireland batter Rebecca Stokell has been notified of an alleged anti-doping rule violation after a sample she provided during an in-competition test on 23 June 2026 returned an adverse finding for a Specified Substance. Following receipt of the notification, Ms Stokell has admitted the violation (which arose from her use of prescription medication) and accepted a voluntary suspension effective 23 October 2026 pending the outcome of the disciplinary process. The ICC will not make any further comment until the matter is finally resolved, said the ICC in a statement on Monday. On her part, Rebecca, who has played 29 ODIs and 80 T20Is, said she had accepted her error and hoped to return soon. I fully accept my mistake and have voluntarily entered into a period of suspension ahead of the findings being returned. While this was not performance related in any way, I understand that I am responsible for following the Anti-Doping Guidelines and I hope that I can be back playing for Ireland as soon as possible, she said in a statement by Cricket Ireland. Cricket Ireland said it has stood by Rebecca, but said the case carried a message for the rest of its squad. While we feel very sorry for Rebecca and have provided the level of support appropriate in these circumstances, this incident does serve as a reminder to all our international players that the Anti-Doping Rules are in place to protect both the sport and the athletes themselves. While this was not performance related in any way, I understand that I am responsible for following the Anti-Doping Guidelines and I hope that I can be back playing for Ireland as soon as possible, she said in a statement by Cricket Ireland. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Ranji Trophy: Urvil and Vishal boost Gujarat
The two carry the host to 300 for five as Kerala squanders advantage on the opening day
'Only for Home Tests?' Sarfaraz Khan Opens Up on India Snub
Middle-order batter Sarfaraz Khan has claimed that the Indian team is considering him only for Test matches played at home, despite his strong performances in intra-squad matches abroad. He expressed perplexity over his non-inclusion in away tour squads.
Delhi's Chaudhary Stars With 4 Wickets in Ranji Clash Vs Services
Young left-arm spinner Aman Chaudhary took four wickets for Delhi, helping them bowl out Services for 266 on the opening day of their Ranji Trophy match, despite a valiant unbeaten century from Services skipper Rajat Paliwal. Elsewhere, Mohammed Shami made an impact for Bengal, Gujarat posted a strong total against Kerala, and Jharkhand struggled against Odisha.
Inexperienced Pace Attack Leaves India In Spot Of Bother For New Zealand ODIs
The Indian team think tank will have to grapple with the collective inexperience of bowlers Gurnoor Brar, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi and Yash Thakur, who have played a total of just 11 ODIs among them, as the visitors take on a very sorted New Zealand side.
Ranji Trophy 2026-27: Anuj and Vikalp hold strong after Hyderabad strikes early
The Chhattisgarh duos 93-run partnership puts the team in control after Milind & Co. have the side reeling at 94 for four; the opener gets two reprieves in his 133-ball 72
Harshit Rana picked in India A squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup
Tilak Varma leads a star-studded 50-over squad which includes Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi
Just 11 ODIs Between Them! India's Bowling Gamble In NZ
The Indian cricket team faces a significant challenge in their upcoming five-match ODI series against New Zealand, with a largely inexperienced bowling attack featuring Gurnoor Brar, Anshul Kamboj, Auqib Nabi, and Yash Thakur, who collectively have played only 11 ODIs.
India Unleash Abhishek, Sooryavanshi for Rising Stars Asia Cup
India A has announced a 15-member squad for the ACC Men's Rising Stars Asia Cup in Doha, featuring Abhishek Sharma and Vaibhav Sooryavanshi. Tilak Varma will captain the side, with Rajat Patidar as his deputy. The tournament runs from November 19 to 29, with India A placed in Group B alongside Pakistan A, Nepal, and UAE.
Spinner Harsh Dubey's sensational spell of nine for 53 headlined a dramatic opening day as 14 wickets fell in the Elite Group A Ranji Trophy clash between Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha, with the hosts struggling at 56 for four after bowling out the visitors for 209.
Ranji Trophy: Vidarbha's Dubey Shreds MP With Nine-Wicket Haul
Spinner Harsh Dubey delivered a sensational spell of nine for 53, headlining a dramatic opening day in the Elite Group A Ranji Trophy clash between Madhya Pradesh and Vidarbha in Nagpur. Madhya Pradesh were bowled out for 209, with Atharva Mahajan scoring 85. In response, Vidarbha struggled, ending the day at 56 for four, trailing by 153 runs, as Kumar Kartikeya picked up three wickets for Madhya Pradesh.
Wicketkeeper-batter Ikram Alikhil To Lead Afghanistan A In 2026 Rising Stars Asia Cup
Rising Stars Asia Cup: Wicketkeeper-batter Ikram Alikhil will lead Afghanistan A at the Rising Stars Asia Cup, with the Afghanistan Cricket Boards (ACB) national selection committee naming a 15-member squad, along with three reserve players. The tournament will be played in Doha, Qatar, from November 19 to 29. Alikhil, who has played three Tests and 33 ODIs, leads a side that features several notable names like Ijaz Ahmadzai, AM Ghazanfar, Darwish Rasooli, Hassan Eisakhil, Qais Ahmad, Bilal Sami and Qais Ahmad. Fast bowler Sami was recently a part of the ODI tri-series against Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. The selectors have turned to Ahmadzai, who has shown plenty of promise in the ongoing T20I series against Zimbabwe. He made the cut on the back of successive half-centuries in the first two matches. With Alikhil set to be primary wicketkeeper while leading the side, Mohammad Ishaq has been picked as the second wicketkeeper in the squad. Afghanistan A have been placed in Pool A along with Sri Lanka A, Bangladesh A and Hong Kong, China. The other group comprises India A, Pakistan A, the UAE and Nepal. Top two sides from each group will progress to the semi-finals. In last years edition, Afghanistan didnt enter the knockouts after finishing third in Group A. Afghanistan A will begin their campaign against Sri Lanka A on November 19, the opening day of the tournament, before taking on Bangladesh A on November 21. They will then round off their group-stage commitments against Hong Kong, China on November 23. The semi-finals will be played on November 26 and 27, with the final scheduled for Sunday, November 29. All the matches, including the knockout games, will be held in Doha. Besides the main squad, the selectors have named three reserves in Abdullah Tarakhil, Khalid Taniwal and Izharulhaq Naveed, who will be on standby for the tournament. Afghanistan A squad: Ikram Alikhil (captain & wk), Mohammad Ishaq (wk), Hassan Eisakhil, Imran Mir, Ijaz Ahmad Ahmadzai, Darwish Rasooli, Faisal Khan Shinozada, Baheer Shah Mahbooob, Farmanullah Safi, Qais Ahmad, Naseer Khan Maroofkhil, AM Ghazanfar, Bilal Sami, Bashir Ahmad, and Naveed Zadran. The semi-finals will be played on November 26 and 27, with the final scheduled for Sunday, November 29. All the matches, including the knockout games, will be held in Doha. Besides the main squad, the selectors have named three reserves in Abdullah Tarakhil, Khalid Taniwal and Izharulhaq Naveed, who will be on standby for the tournament. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India's Squad For Asia Cup Rising Stars: Vaibhav Sooryavanshi, Abhishek Sharma Included
The Men's Selection Committee has picked the India A squad for the upcoming Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Men's Rising Stars Asia Cup to be held in Doha, Qatar, from November 19 to 29, 2026
India A squad for Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026 announced, Tilak Varma named captain
The BCCI (Board of Control for Cricket in India) came forward and announced India As squad for the upcoming edition of the ACC Mens Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026. The tournament will be held in...
Surprised Kuldeep Yadav Didnt Get To Play In Five T20Is Against NZ, Says Venkatapathy Raju
Surprised Kuldeep Yadav: Former India left-arm spinner Venkatapathy Raju said he was surprised that wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav did not get a game in the recently concluded five-match T20I series against New Zealand, which the visitors won 3-2, and urged the team management to give him more game time ahead of next years ODI World Cup. India has played 35 matches in SENA countries in the last 24 months under the current team management, and Kuldeep has featured in only three games. Its surprising. We are all former cricketers who sit here. We do commentary and then we have our own interactions. When you take Kuldeep, why are you not making him play? We all know wrist spinners are such an asset in white-ball cricket, right? And then, when you have him in all three formats and sitting on the bench, its quite surprising. Or you allow him to go play domestic cricket. Because any spinner might be wrist, left-arm, whatever the more matches they play, the more control they have. Because now we are already seeing New Zealand team batters, or any batter who is playing against India, they just attack nowadays because now we dont have the variations. The skill is there, but the variations are lacking in the present set-up. Thats why I think Kuldeep has to be given more and more chances. Because we are trying with different medium-fast bowlers. But then, I think they are lacking that experience. So, I think if you pick Kuldeep, he should be playing. We might lose a couple of matches. But then, bowling in those tight situations in international games, he can be one of those guys who can adjust. Because he is hardly playing any domestic cricket and then he is hardly playing any international cricket. So, for me, as a spinner, I feel very surprised that he has not been put in and did not to find a game in five T20s, especially after the series was won, Raju told IANS in a select virtual interaction facilitated by Sony Sports Network, ahead of the India-New Zealand ODI series starting on Wednesday. Taking note of head coach Gauta Gambhirs remark that he was not there to please everyone, Raju felt the team management was not being asked to please anyone, but to make full use of its match-winners. Raju, who has also served as a national selector, questioned why Kuldeep continued to be picked across formats without getting any game time. Even now, sometimes we feel really surprised. Why is Kuldeep there in the team? We all know he is such a brilliant bowler, and he hardly gets to play. But they pick him in all three formats T20s, 50s and Test matches. But then, he hardly plays, because the wrist spinner plays a very important role. We all know that, right? Then he has to be playing more games to be match-fit. So, experience-wise, we dont have to bother about (Virat) Kohli or Rohit (Sharma) as long as they are fit enough, they are always an asset for a team. Raju further stated the lack of quality spin-bowling have cost India in pursuit of defending totals, even as the side chased well in the T20Is in New Zealand. The only concern for me is the all-rounders, again because what we have seen in T20s in New Zealand, we were very good chasers. But of late, we have not been able to restrict, right? We are not able to restrict teams when we put a total on board. We are not able to restrict that because of the lack of good-quality spinners. Asked about Axar Patel, who was expensive for much of the T20I series, Raju said the all-rounder needed to rediscover his variations and lacked having a wicket-taking partner at the other end. Axar has been there for a long time. He has been the main all-rounder for us. But then, T20s you cant say much about T20s. But in 50 overs, it is that extra overs where you have to bowl. So, he is a very big asset. But of late, those variations are missing a bit from his bowling. The moment he sorts that out quickly (is important) because we all know about his fielding, and capability with the bat. But then, of late, we dont have those spin twins like Chahal or Kuldeep. When they were there, they were match-winners on their own, right? But now, Axar doesnt have much support. When we add Ashwin or somebody else, their combination was brilliant, like Jadeja and Ashwin. I think Axar also needs a wicket-taking bowler in between, which we are lacking in. He also knows that he is a very important and key player in any set-up, whether he is playing Test matches, 50 overs or T20 games. He is a very crucial figure, because we are going for all-rounders. Then, there are a lot of guys who are injured, somebody like Washington Sundar and all. Most of them are on the injury list. So, Axar has to pull up his socks and take that responsibility, he elaborated. With Ravindra Jadeja not picked in the ODI side since the series against the West Indies, Raju said it appeared India had moved on from him. It looks like, because we have Axar Patel. If you see the similarities between Jadeja and Axar, right? Both are brilliant fielders. Both of them can contribute with the bat. But then, the bowling part slowly, we are seeing little of that rushness in Axars bowling, right? So, again, if you see the 2011 World Cup, you had Sachin Tendulkar, right? Then players like Laxman and all these guys were already turning into 30s 38, 39. So, I think they made a brilliant call by having one or two experienced players and then there were a lot of young guys who had the experience of playing more than 75 ODI games. So, I think now the time has come where you have to really, really find those people who are going to play find those players who play more games. Raju also said the experience of batting stalwarts Rohit and Kohli was not a concern, and the two should play as many matches as possible before the ODI World Cup takes place in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia from October 2 to November 21, 2027. Because if you see, we never had many all-rounders in T20s, and there was not much experience in this bowling line-up. But, like, we are talking about the World Cup coming in then, mostly, people will talk about Virat and Rohit, right? Like, we need a lot of experience when you play outside India and these guys have been there. They play only one format nowadays. So, probably they should be playing as many matches as possible till the World Cup comes in. For Rohit and Kohli, we dont have to talk much, because they both have been there for such a long time. They both have been match-winners. Shubman Gill, KL Rahul and Anshul Kamboj are in Indias Test squad and will be released for the last two ODIs for the two-game series preparations. It will put more of the load on Rohit, Kohli and those who have played less ODI cricket to win the last two matches. India lost ODI series in England this year and to Australia last year, and their last ODI series win in New Zealand came in 2018/19. Raju said Indias pace resources had been hit by injuries at a time when rival teams were fielding tall, hit-the-deck bowlers. If you see all the white-ball playing nations nowadays - like Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand they are all having very tall bowlers and hit-the-deck bowlers. Where are we lacking in that? Because most of the guys who had that ability are on the injury list. So, the most important thing is how you adapt to them. See, we are bound to lose a couple of matches. But then, before the World Cup, if you can get your things and combination right because here we are lacking in spin, fast bowlers also and those all-rounders who are getting injured. So, its not only the batting - I think bowling is going to be our main concern. So, you might lose a couple of bilateral series. But probably, I think the selectors and the (team) management, I think they have to find a combination. Then, try to see that you take care of them before the World Cup. So, the most important thing is how you adapt to them. See, we are bound to lose a couple of matches. But then, before the World Cup, if you can get your things and combination right because here we are lacking in spin, fast bowlers also and those all-rounders who are getting injured. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Two Five-Wicket Hauls, Two Fifties Put Karnataka in Command
Rohan Patil and Mayank Agarwal scored contrasting half-centuries, building a crucial 129-run partnership, after Karnataka's bowlers dismantled Assam's batting line-up, giving their team a commanding lead on day one of their Ranji Trophy Elite Group B match.
Ranji Trophy: Salil and Sanvirbail Punjab out on the opening day
The two add 205 for the unbroken sixth wicket to take the home side to 276 for five after Andhra pacers Raju and Sai Teja wreak havoc in the first session
Former India cricketer Krishnamachari Srikkanth is not totally impressed with Tilak Varma, amid Mumbai Indians' captaincy conundrum.
Rishabh Pant To Undergo Another Fitness Test Before New Zealand Series After Failing One
Captain Dhruv Jurel: India wicketkeeper batter Rishabh Pant will have the chance to prove his fitness once more as the batter is set to undertake another test before he can leave for New Zealand ahead of the Test series. Pant suffered a side strain during the Irani Cup match while leading Rest of India and Jammu and Kashmir. He has been at the BCCI CoE for around 10 days and failed a fitness test on Sunday. As per a report in Cricinfo, he will take another fitness test in two days before he is cleared to play in New Zealand. If he manages to clear the test this time around, he will be joining the Indian A side for the third multi-day game against New Zealand A, which begins on November 7 in Lincoln. Pant was named in India A's squad for the three four-day games, which were preparatory matches for the visiting side. However, his availability was subject to fitness clearance. The wicketkeeper batter was ruled out of the first two matches due to his recovery, with Kumar Kushagra named his replacement. Captain Dhruv Jurel kept the wickets in the first two matches as Kushagra did not get to play. Pant was also named in India's squads for the two-match Test series against the Blackcaps, which begins on November 19; however, his participation in the series was also subject to fitness clearance. The same report also added that India speedster Jasprit Bumrah has left for New Zealand and is likely to play the third multi-day game against New Zealand A to prepare for the Test series. Bumrah was rested for India's white-ball series against the West Indies at home and the away T20I and ODI series against New Zealand. This was due to the BCCI wanting to keep their talisman pacer in a cotton wool ahead of the New Zealand Test series, which is considered to be an important one for India's chances for the World Test Championship final. The same report also added that India speedster Jasprit Bumrah has left for New Zealand and is likely to play the third multi-day game against New Zealand A to prepare for the Test series. Bumrah was rested for India's white-ball series against the West Indies at home and the away T20I and ODI series against New Zealand. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
India Sweep Both PD, Wheelchair T20I Series 2-0 Against Sri Lanka As Rain Washes Out Final Day
Sewa Niketan Foundation IND: India completed a clean sweep in both the Physical Disability (PD) and Wheelchair T20I series against Sri Lanka, winning both 2-0 in the Sewa Niketan Foundation IND vs SL T20I Beyond Limit Trophy 2026, after rain washed out the third and final day's matches at the CSK Ground, Navalur, on Monday. India remained unbeaten throughout the tournament, recording four victories in as many completed matches across the two formats. The PD team registered victories by 75 and 86 runs, while the Wheelchair team secured wins by seven and eight wickets. Persistent rain prevented play in either of Monday's scheduled matches, bringing the three-day tournament to an early conclusion with India having already sealed both series on the first two days. Winning both series 2-0 is a proud moment for Indian disability cricket. Our PD and Wheelchair teams were outstanding, and Sri Lanka competed with great spirit. This first joint tour shows what all disability formats can achieve when they work together. Thank you to everyone who supported us in Chennai, said Ravi Chauhan, General Secretary of the Differently Abled Cricket Council of India (DCCI). India's PD team began its campaign with a convincing 75-run victory on October 31. After posting 179/6 in 20 overs, India bowled Sri Lanka out for 104 in 19.2 overs. Sainath Reddy was named Player of the Match for his 36 off 16 deliveries. In the Wheelchair encounter on the opening day, India bowled Sri Lanka out for 62 before chasing down the target at 65/3 in the 10th over to register a seven-wicket win. Romaisar Wani was adjudged Player of the Match for his spell of 2/3 in 2.3 overs. India continued their dominant run on the second day, winning the PD match by 86 runs. After being asked to bat, India posted 140/8 in 20 overs, with A. Shanmugam top-scoring with an unbeaten 32, while Shivashankar G.S. contributed 31 and Vikramjeet made 24. The Indian bowlers then dismantled the Sri Lankan batting line-up for just 54 in 14.3 overs. Radhika Prasad returned impressive figures of 4/13 in four overs, while Vintoo Yadav claimed 3/7 to secure the emphatic victory. The Wheelchair team also completed its second successive win on November 1, registering an eight-wicket victory under captain Somjeet Singh. Saurabh Malik contributed an unbeaten 36 and picked up two wickets for six runs, while Shiva Prasad remained unbeaten on 37. Tournament chairman Dr William congratulated both Indian teams on their series victories and acknowledged the contribution of the visiting Sri Lankan contingent and those involved in organising the event. The Wheelchair team also completed its second successive win on November 1, registering an eight-wicket victory under captain Somjeet Singh. Saurabh Malik contributed an unbeaten 36 and picked up two wickets for six runs, while Shiva Prasad remained unbeaten on 37. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Sophie Devine four-for seals low-scoring encounter for Scorchers
Despite Meg Lanning's 41 at the top of the order, Stars collapsed to a 15-run loss in their chase of 125
In a major blow for CSA (Cricket South Africa), the sides star player, Kyle Verreynne, and batting coach, Ashwell Prince, have been found in breach of the ICCs Code of Conduct and have been handed...
Pant's New Zealand Test Hopes Hang on Crucial Fitness Assessment
Rishabh Pant gets another opportunity to clear his fitness test within two days and join India A for the New Zealand warm-up game ahead of the two-Test series.
Lalit Modi Bats To Identify Best IPL Window Between October And April
Lalit Modi: IPL's founding chairman Lalit Modi has called for a change of the IPL window from March-May to a window between October and April, suggesting the start of the lucrative tournament from January and increasing number of matches to 94. Modi also drew a comparison to how football leagues run over months, and he also asked ICC chairman Jay Shah to help facilitate the calendar. The IPL founder stressed that when the tournament was launched in 2008, April and May were the only available opportunity at that time. You are looking at the IPL today and applying that certainty to the circumstances in which I created it. When I started, there was enormous resistance and scepticism. I took a window nobody wanted and built a competition people wanted to watch. The success we see today was not handed to us. April-May was the opportunity available then. It was never a declaration that these were the ideal months for Indian cricket for all time. We began with eight teams and a 59-match schedule. The BCCI subsequently expanded the league to 10 teams. A complete home-and-away competition for 10 teams means 90 league matches and four playoffs. That is 94 matches - 35 more than the original format, an increase of almost 60%, he said as quoted by Cricbuzz. The 62-year-old further argued that the organisers must create better experience through sensible timings to accommodate the increased number of matches. How do you accommodate that growth in essentially the same compressed period without putting more pressure on players, spectators and everyone delivering the tournament? For families, of course, the holiday period was an advantage. But families follow teams, players and compelling cricket. Their interest is not confined to two months. We should build a better experience through sensible timings, weekends and comfortable stadium conditions, while taking school calendars into account. I created the IPL to grow. I did not create it to stand still, he added. Meanwhile, IPL chairman Arun Dhumal, while speaking to a sports magazine earlier this year, had also suggested dividing the tournament into two windows to get more matches. As per Modi's suggestion, a January start would be a major tweak to the international calendar and also to domestic cricket for India, changing the Test cricket schedule and domestic schedule. It would require changes. That is precisely why this discussion belongs in the new FTP, Modi admitted. My broader position is that we should identify the best window from October to the end of April. January is a concrete starting proposal within that range. I am not asking for seven uninterrupted months of exclusive IPL cricket. We need to sit down with the actual fixtures, venues, travel requirements and player commitments and design the season properly. International cricket needs protected blocks. Domestic cricket needs a coherent programme. Players need preparation and genuine rest. You cannot fit a Test tour into a few spare weekdays. But the calendar would have to change cannot be the final answer to every proposal. The purpose of planning a new calendar is to improve it, he added. Currently, India doesn't have a problem giving up their international schedule for franchise cricket, and they are able to freely host the international game and then also the IPL. Modi felt that the economics trend is likely to change for international cricket. Then assess the economics properly. My assessment is that bilateral and ICC rights income faces pressure in the coming cycle. The IPL is the BCCIs principal commercial engine and, in my view, its lifeline for future growth. The BCCI should be planning ahead of that risk. A change in dates does not automatically mean combining the rights packages or abandoning valuable international cricket. It means deciding how the whole year should work. Calculate the additional IPL opportunity, the international income affected, the costs and the arrangements needed with other boards. Look at the net benefit to cricket. Keeping two income streams separate is useful. Keeping the calendar unchanged regardless of how those income streams develop is not a business strategy, he added. He also argued that heat and humidity trouble the players, spectators and other stakeholders during the latter part of IPL, further asking the tournament to be moved to the October-April period by choosing dates and venues intelligently. Conditions differ across India, and April itself can be very hot. That is a reason for detailed planning. We must consider the experience of everyone on the ground. The IPL currently has 74 matches scheduled, and increasing it to 94 can also create fatigue among players and viewers. Modi emphasised the problem. Fatigue is precisely one of the problems I want us to address. There is a difference between spreading a season sensibly and asking viewers to consume more and more cricket on consecutive days. The 94-match figure comes from a clear sporting proposition: 10 teams, every opponent at home and away, followed by four playoffs. Each team would have nine home and nine away league fixtures. Supporters would get to see every opponent in their own city. The BCCI expanded the league. The calendar should allow the full competition to develop properly. A longer season gives us room to create a recognisable weekly rhythm, build anticipation and leave breathing space. It also requires us to manage the players entire year. More weeks alone will not create rest if we fill every gap with another commitment, he argued. Modi also asked ICC chair Shah to help facilitate the tournament, asking him to find a settlement where IPL can be strengthened and giving certainty to the wider game. His responsibility to world cricket is exactly why I am asking him to use his good offices. BCCI can develop an IPL proposal. Securing an international agreement around it requires someone who understands Indias commercial importance and the legitimate interests of the other boards. Jay has the experience to help bring those interests together. He has already contributed to the IPLs commercial growth. At the ICC, he has the opportunity to help translate that strength into an arrangement the wider game can support. That means listening to other boards, protecting important international cricket and examining fair arrangements for player release and development. The countries producing overseas talent must have a reason to support the outcome. Modi also asked ICC chair Shah to help facilitate the tournament, asking him to find a settlement where IPL can be strengthened and giving certainty to the wider game. His responsibility to world cricket is exactly why I am asking him to use his good offices. BCCI can develop an IPL proposal. Securing an international agreement around it requires someone who understands Indias commercial importance and the legitimate interests of the other boards. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Pakistan fined for slow over rate in tri-series final win against Sri Lanka
Pakistan were found one over short after time allowances were taken into consideration
Used To Get Smashed A Lot: India Great Delivers Unfiltered Judgment On Mumbai Indians' New Coaches
Mumbai Indians have revamped their coaching staff ahead of IPL 2027, with Kieron Pollard being appointed head coach, Robin Uthappa batting coach and Mitchell McClenaghan bowling coach.
Afghanistan climb to sixth, achieve highest-ever position in ODI rankings
They recently beat Ireland 4-0 in an away series before going unbeaten in the UAE tri-series
With IPL Owners On Board, SA20 Targets Next Level Of Growth
On Wednesday, SA20 will hold its fifth player auction ahead of the fifth season of the T20 league, starting in January
Dad Couldnt Play For India, He Sees That Dream In Me, Says GGs Newest Recruit Samaira Raghav
Against South Delhi Superstarz: Samaira Raghav was not supposed to be watching the Womens Premier League (WPL) auction. Her parents had asked her to stay away from seeing live feed of the auction proceedings happening in Kochi last week. They feared the weight of hope would be too much for a 16-year-old to carry, in case she doesn't find any takers. A day before the auction, Samaira was one of four late entries that took the WPL 2027 auction pool from 146 to 150 players. She learnt about it from an Instagram story, and then from her mother. My mom quickly messaged me that, I think you are in the auction list now, Samaira recalled in an exclusive conversation with IANS on Monday. Five minutes before her name came up, she switched the feed on anyway at her hotel room in Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh, where she is currently playing the U19 Womens T20 Challengers tournament, with her Team D room-mate. Then I saw my name and the Gujarat Giants paddle go up and I was just ecstatic. Both of us screamed at the top of our lungs in the hotel room. Then after that, it was just surreal, she added. Gujarat Giants bought her at her base price of 10 lakh rupees. But for Samaira, it was the first public validation of a dream which began taking shape nine years ago. Born on January 23, 2010, Samairas tryst with sports began with 100m and 200m sprints. But my dad wanted me to try other sports as well because I was very sporty ever since I was young. At seven, her father Sunil Raghav took her to a cricket academy. The first session featured fielding, and it won over Samaira. I just enjoyed it so much. After that day, I just kept going to the academy with my own free will. My dad kind of pushed me into cricket. But from there, I just took over. Sunil played as a leg-spinner until college, before committing to studies, including pursuing an MBA from IIM Calcutta. Sunil later went on to scale technologies at Dow Chemicals, Dr Reddys Laboratories and Total (Arkema Global) in USA and India. I think it was his wish for himself to play cricket at India level. But he could not fulfill it. So, he kind of sees it in me now and I am working on it, said Samaira. Samairas mother, Puja Jain, spent a decade at McKinsey & Company. She rose to partner and co-led its sustainability practice, as well as holds two US patents from research at Penn State University and Dow Chemicals. Today the couple run ElementRe, which specialises in end-to-end lithium-ion battery recycling solutions. While Puja is the CEO, Sunil acts as CTO. In cricket, Samaira started out mainly as a batter. During the Covid-19 lockdown, batting was impossible in their housing society in Gurugram, so Sunil got time to develop her leg-spin skills. We would just go down in our society and I would start bowling. He taught me the basics and from there, I kind of picked up my bowling skills from my dad. As Samaira grew, Sunil stepped back. When I was a bit younger, I wasn't that independent. But after a few years, he let me be independent. I would go and come back by metro. Since then, he has been around. But he just leaves me on his own now. Samaira now trains under Dipti Dhyani, currently the head coach of Delhi's senior women's team, at the City Cricket Academy in Hauz Khas, which is affiliated to the Delhi and District Cricket Association (DDCA) and plays under the name Sonnet. It was there that her role changed. As a child she opened the batting. But playing alongside the seniors, Samaira was pushed down the order. Her coaches had one piece of advice: if she gets batting late, she needs to hit sixes. They told me that I should probably develop the skill to hit sixes. So, from there, we started working on it. After that, I would just go and finish matches and everything. I would not feel that much pressure while doing it. That is why I just picked it from there and I really enjoy it, she said. She also saw where womens cricket was rapidly going more towards power-hitting and six-hitting skills. In the earlier days, there was more of grounded cricket. But now, the game has changed. The formats have become shorter and everybody is focussing more on power hitting in sixes. I also thought I would also learn and go with whatever trend is going on. Then, I know it will help me in the future as well if I am hitting sixes. Her role models are two of India's best-known finishers: former captain MS Dhoni and wicketkeeper-batter Richa Ghosh. Obviously, there is MSD. Richa Ghosh now, she is really amazing, said Samaira. The work showed this year in the Women's Delhi Premier League (DPL), where Samaira played for North Delhi Strikers. Against South Delhi Superstarz, Samairas 32 off 26 balls, with two fours and a six, helped her side win by two runs. Against East Delhi Riders, she made an unbeaten 34 off 21 balls and won the game with a six off the penultimate delivery. We took it till the end (against East Delhi). I just thought that I can't really lose from this point. I have to win this. I have come so far in this match. At that ball, I think our bowlers started coming in as batters. There were no more batters that could hit sixes. So, at that ball, I thought we needed a boundary anyhow. Then, I would go for a six only because if I ran a single, then we would probably lose the match. Its because the last batter would not be able to hit a six. After that, I just went for it. Thankfully, it connected and then went for a six, she recalled. The pattern has led to Samaira being in good form. Playing for Delhi in the Under-19 Women's T20 Trophy, she scored 162 runs in seven innings at a strike rate of 216. She was out only three times, while averaging 54, and hitting 14 fours and 12 sixes. In the Under-19 Women's T20 Challenger Trophy, against Team A, Team D side was reeling at 27/3 after eight overs. Samaira came in and hit 78 off 44 balls, hitting six fours and as many sixes, and carried them to 137/6. Against Team B, chasing at more than 10 runs an over, she made an unbeaten 24 off 12 balls, with two fours and as many sixes. In between, Samaira found time to attend two WPL trials - for Mumbai Indians in Mumbai and for Gujarat Giants in Bengaluru. offered only an open net session. Bengaluru was different. At Mumbai Indians, we had an open net session. I could not really get a chance to talk to the coaches. Gujarat Giants, however, they really took notice of me and my six-hitting abilities there in the camp. All of them gave me really positive feedback and a few points to work on which I am working on now. They also took notice of my bowling there. So, the bowling coach, PT, Pravin (Tambe) sir, he really saw that I could also bowl and I had good potential to be a bowler as well. That's why I think now they've picked me. But it was amazing to be part of that camp, she said. Her fielding skills too were noticed by GG coaching staff. We just had one match simulation. I think I stopped one or two boundaries. I don't know if it was that noticeable, but I gave my 100 percent. People who watched her over two days of trials said she struck the ball as hard as anyone present, and that her fielding stood out as compared to other players. Samaira credits the DDCA, and its president Rohan Jaitley, for helping women players get a noticeable platform via DPL. I have been so grateful to DDCA, honestly. They have given us so many opportunities for youngsters to showcase their talent. Now WPL scouts are coming in to watch our games and then kids are getting selected. This time, I think 4-5 people from Delhi are in the WPL. It really makes a difference. So, I am really grateful to DDCA. Rohan Jaitley sir has made so many efforts for women to also be at the same level as men. Like, giving them the same opportunities, playing in the same field and I am really grateful to them. They have actually given us so much exposure. She knows how quickly praise can unsettle a young player. I always think about my roots and where I have come from and where I am now. It really humbles me a lot. I think about those low times that I had when nobody was there except my family and my coaches. It really just makes me feel so much gratitude for everybody who has been there. Her parents, she says, are proud but rarely show it. I think its because they don't show it to me because then they think that I will be really happy about it and not focus on other things. So, they just want to keep me grounded. That's why they just act normal. When nerves build, she dabbles in painting and drawing. Music calms her too - before every match, the last song she hears before stepping off the bus and playing a game has to be 52 Bars by Punjabi singer Karan Aujla. The pure wisdom in young blood reflects in Samairas Instagram bio: Love to play cricket. Beneath it sits a line from the legendary Rahul Dravid You dont play for revenge but play for respect and pride. Samairas next test may pull her away from the WPL, if she is picked for the Under-19 World Cup. But Samaira does not see a conflict, as it will be the first step towards fulfilling her fathers dream. If I also get to be in the U19 World Cup squad, it would actually be so amazing. I feel like I have a duty to my country if I get selected in the U19 World Cup. But right now, all I am thinking about is I just keep performing wherever I go and God will look after the rest. Samairas next test may pull her away from the WPL, if she is picked for the Under-19 World Cup. But Samaira does not see a conflict, as it will be the first step towards fulfilling her fathers dream. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Proteas look to cement No 1 Test spot as Bangladesh beckon
South Africa have recalled batters Tony de Zorzi and Zubayr Hamza to their squad for the upcoming two-match home Test series against Bangladesh, while seamer Lungi Ngidi remains sidelined due to injury.
Verreynne, Prince handed official reprimands and one demerit point each
They breached Level 1 of the ICC Code of Conduct in Cape Town for showing dissent after Marques Ackerman's dismissal in the second innings
SA Womens Historic Home Tour Vs AUS Pushed By A Week To Fit In Inaugural Champions Trophy
Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium: South Africas maiden home series against Australia women has been rescheduled to run from March 24 to April 18, 2027, following the confirmation of the inaugural ICC Womens Champions Trophy, which will be held from February 14 to 28. The landmark bilateral tour will feature three T20 Internationals, three One-Day Internationals and a one-off Test, with matches scheduled across seven venues in South Africa. The T20I leg will begin in Kimberley on March 24, followed by matches in Benoni on March 27 and Potchefstroom on March 30. The teams will then move to the 50-over format, with ODIs scheduled in Durban (April 3), Paarl (April 7) and Gqeberha (April 10). The tour will conclude with a historic four-day Test from April 15 to 18 at Buffalo Park Cricket Stadium in KuGompo City, which will host a womens Test for the first time. The ODI series will also carry added significance, forming part of the ICC Womens Championship 2026-29, through which teams compete for qualification to the 2029 ICC Womens Cricket World Cup. The opening ODI in Durban on April 3 will coincide with the sixth edition of the Black Day ODI, an initiative aimed at raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV) in South Africa. Cricket South Africa (CSA) chief executive officer Pholetsi Moseki welcomed the revised schedule and highlighted the significance of hosting the Australian side for the first time. Hosting a heralded team like Australia will always be a special occasion, let alone doing so for the first time. We are very appreciative of the work put in by both Cricket South Africa and Cricket Australia to ensure the tours new dates were confirmed following the scheduling of the ICC Womens Champions Trophy, Moseki said in a statement. This is an exciting opportunity for fans across South Africa to get behind the Proteas as they take on the defending T20 World Cup champions at seven venues nationwide. The tour builds towards a historic finale in KuGompo City with the first womens Test between South Africa and Australia on South African soil. Its a landmark occasion for womens cricket, and we look forward to seeing supporters fill the stands. Hosting a heralded team like Australia will always be a special occasion, let alone doing so for the first time. We are very appreciative of the work put in by both Cricket South Africa and Cricket Australia to ensure the tours new dates were confirmed following the scheduling of the ICC Womens Champions Trophy, Moseki said in a statement. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Afghanistan make history, climb to 6th in ICC ODI Rankings
Afghanistan has achieved its highest-ever position in the ICC Men's ODI Team Rankings, climbing to 6th spot and surpassing Sri Lanka, following impressive performances including a 4-0 series win over Ireland and an unbeaten tri-series campaign.
Tony de Zorzi returns to South Africa squad for Bangladesh Tests
South Africa also picked Zubayr Hamza and Anrich Nortje after he recovered from a groin injury
Ebola outbreak: Kenya trip scuttles Tribe's tour of the West Indies with England Lions
Asa Tribe was in Kenya recently to represent Jersey in the CWC Challenge League Group A matches, and Kenya announced its first Ebola cases last month
Clayton 'thankful' for Khawaja's Test backing as Shield runs flow
Victoria lead by 163 going into what could be a fascinating final day at the Gabba
Expected Something New? Team India Questioned Over Bhuvneshwar Kumar's Return For 5th T20I
The T20I series against New Zealand turned out to be a forgettable outing for veteran pacer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who had returned to the national side after four years.
Afghanistan Attain All-time High Sixth Spot In ICC ODI Rankings
ODI Team Rankings: Afghanistan have reached a new landmark in their cricketing journey, climbing to sixth place in the latest ICC Mens ODI Team Rankings to register their best-ever position in the format. The rise sees Afghanistan move past Sri Lanka, adding another significant achievement to the rapid progress they have made since entering international one-day cricket in 2009. They are now ranked ahead of several established cricketing nations, having already moved above Bangladesh, England and the West Indies. The latest rankings milestone reflects Afghanistans growing consistency in the 50-over format. They have won 96 of their 191 ODIs, maintaining an impressive win-loss ratio of 1.09. Their emergence as a formidable side has been particularly evident in major international competitions. At the 2023 ICC Mens Cricket World Cup, Afghanistan registered landmark victories over Pakistan and Sri Lanka, underlining their ability to challenge teams with considerably greater experience at the highest level. Their progress has also extended to the shortest format, where they reached the semi-finals of the 2024 ICC Mens T20 World Cup for the first time. Recent results have further strengthened their credentials. Afghanistan completed a 4-0 series sweep against Ireland in Ireland before going through the recently concluded tri-series involving Zimbabwe and Bangladesh without suffering a defeat. Their momentum has continued in T20Is, with a comprehensive 3-0 series victory over Zimbabwe in Sharjah on Sunday. Afghanistan wrapped up the final match with a seven-wicket win after dismissing the hosts for just 79. Left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad delivered a career-best performance, claiming 5/13 to dismantle Zimbabwes middle and lower order. Fazalhaq Farooqi, Azmatullah Omarzai and Abdullah Tarakhail had also contributed with early breakthroughs as Zimbabwe struggled to recover from losing three wickets for 13 runs. Afghanistans chase was completed in 11.4 overs, with Ibrahim Zadran remaining unbeaten on 25 and Omarzai contributing an unbeaten 18. Left-arm wrist-spinner Noor Ahmad delivered a career-best performance, claiming 5/13 to dismantle Zimbabwes middle and lower order. Fazalhaq Farooqi, Azmatullah Omarzai and Abdullah Tarakhail had also contributed with early breakthroughs as Zimbabwe struggled to recover from losing three wickets for 13 runs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Irfan, Boucher, Waqar among support staff for inaugural Afghanistan Premier League
International stars like Wanindu Hasaranga, Reeza Hendricks, Romario Shepherd, Rovman Powell and Imran Tahir are part of the Draft, to be held on November 3
Australia Women's tour of SA postponed by a week to accommodate Champions Trophy
The series will now be played from March 24 to April 18, finishing with a one-off women's Test in East London
Wasim Jaffer weighs in on Shreyas Iyer's performances as India clinch T20I series against NZ
The T20I series between India and New Zealand came to a conclusion with the Indian team clinching the five-game series with a score of 3-2. It is worth noting that the Men in Blue kicked...
Pant to undergo second test to prove fitness for New Zealand tour
Rishabh Pant, who failed to pass the first fitness test on Sunday, will be available for the third New Zealand A vs India A four-day match if he is cleared to travel
Pakistan fined for slow over-rate in tri-series final against Sri Lanka
Digital Desk | Dubai, Nov 2 (IANS) Pakistan have been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate in ODI Tri-Series final against Sri Lanka in Lahore. The sanction was imposed by Jeff Crowe of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees after Pakistan were found to have bowled one over short of the required quota within the stipulated time, even after accounting for time allowances. Pakistan captain Shaheen Shah Afridi pleaded guilty to the offence and accepted the proposed penalty, avoiding the need for a formal hearing. The charge was levelled by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Wayne Knights, third umpire Sharfuddoula Ibne Shahid and fourth umpire Rashid Riaz. Under Article 2.22 of the ICC Code of Conduct for Players and Player Support Personnel, teams are penalised five per cent of their players match fees for every over they fall short of the minimum over-rate requirement. The penalty applies after the available time allowances have been taken into consideration. The fine comes after Pakistan registered a thrilling three-wicket victory over Sri Lanka to lift the tri-series trophy in front of their home crowd. Chasing a challenging target of 326, the hosts reached 329 for seven with nine balls remaining, completing the tournament-winning run chase. Fakhar Zaman was the chief architect of Pakistans successful pursuit, producing a commanding 127 off 99 deliveries, his 12th ODI century. He received valuable support from Saad Baig, who scored 74 off 75 balls, as the pair rescued the hosts after early dismissals of Maaz Sadaqat and Babar Azam. With Pakistan needing late impetus after Zamans dismissal, Arafat Minhas delivered a decisive contribution, smashing 61 off just 31 deliveries, including four sixes and as many boundaries. His aggressive knock brought the equation within reach before Shaheen sealed the victory with a six. Earlier, Kamindu Mendis had struck 131, while Pavan Rathnayake contributed 77, taking Sri Lanka to 325 for eight. However, their efforts proved insufficient as Pakistan completed the chase to claim the tri-series title.
New Zealand registereda dominant win in the fifth and final T20I of the series against India. The two sides met at Seddon Park in Hamilton for the clash on November 1st, and the Black Caps...
J&K Crowned Champions Of IDCA T20 National Cricket Championship For Deaf
IDCA T20 National Cricket Championship: Jammu & Kashmir emerged champions of the IDCA 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf 2026, while Rajasthan finished runners-up in the tournament held in Surat, Gujarat. Tamil Nadu Deafs Sai Akash was named Player of the Series and also received the Best Batsman of the Series award. Rajasthan Deafs Sanju Sharma was adjudged Best Bowler of the Series, while Jammu & Kashmir Deafs Shariq Majeed received the Player of the Match award in the final. Organised by the Indian Deaf Cricket Association (IDCA), in association with the Gujarat Deaf Cricket Association (GDCA) and Deaf Cricket Association Surat (DCAS), the championship was held from October 26 to November 1 at Bawaji Cricket Ground, Bhatpore. Teams representing 14 states and regions across India participated in the tournament. The 10th edition marked the first time Surat hosted the national-level T20 championship for deaf cricketers, providing a platform for players to showcase their talent and compete at the highest level. The closing ceremony was attended by Santosh Kumar Rai, IAS, Special Secretary, Home Department, Government of Delhi, as the chief guest. He congratulated Jammu & Kashmir on winning the title and Rajasthan on finishing runners-up, while acknowledging the contributions of the participating players, coaches, officials, organisers, sponsors and volunteers. These talented deaf cricketers have demonstrated that hearing impairment is never a barrier to achieving excellence in sports. Such initiatives provide a valuable platform for deaf athletes to showcase their talent, promote inclusion and equal opportunities, and inspire future generations, Santosh Kumar Rai, IAS, said, IDCA president Sumit Jain said the tournaments successful conclusion marked another milestone in the associations efforts to strengthen deaf cricket in India. The successful conclusion of the 10th T20 National Cricket Championship for Deaf marks another important milestone in our efforts to strengthen the platform for deaf cricket in India. Bringing together 14 teams from across the country in Surat, for the first time, reflects the growing reach of the sport and the commitment of everyone working to advance it. We congratulate Jammu & Kashmir on winning the championship and Rajasthan on finishing as runners-up. Our appreciation goes to GDCA, DCAS, the participating teams, officials, volunteers and partners whose collective efforts made this edition possible, Sumit said. GDCA general secretary Mittal Shah also highlighted the significance of hosting the national championship in Surat. The exceptional talent, discipline and spirit shown by all teams made it a memorable celebration of deaf cricket. We extend our sincere gratitude to IDCA, the players, officials, volunteers, sponsors and partners for making this event a grand success. Heartiest congratulations to Jammu & Kashmir on their title win and to Rajasthan for their strong finish, Mittal said. The closing ceremony also featured a special retirement felicitation for Parth Gajjar in recognition of his contribution and service to Indian Deaf Cricket. The exceptional talent, discipline and spirit shown by all teams made it a memorable celebration of deaf cricket. We extend our sincere gratitude to IDCA, the players, officials, volunteers, sponsors and partners for making this event a grand success. Heartiest congratulations to Jammu & Kashmir on their title win and to Rajasthan for their strong finish, Mittal said. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gambhir: India's T20 win in NZ sets tone for tour
India's head coach Gautam Gambhir has lauded the Shreyas Iyer-led T20 team for their impressive 3-2 series victory against New Zealand, achieved despite minimal preparation time and challenging conditions, setting a strong precedent for the upcoming ODI and Test matches.
2nd Unofficial Test: NZ As Lower Order Frustrates India After Mukesh, Siraj Heroics
Unofficial Test: India As bowlers were made to work hard for their wickets as New Zealand As lower order turned the contest around on Day 3 of the second unofficial Test at Hagley Oval, stretching their first-innings total to 424 and securing a 78-run lead on Monday. India A reached 32 for no loss in their second innings at stumps, with Yashasvi Jaiswal and B Sai Sudharsan reducing the deficit to 46. The day had begun with New Zealand A firmly placed at 218/3, but Mohammed Siraj wasted little time in breaking the resistance, dismissing Matthew Boyle for 110 with the first delivery of the morning. Devdutt Padikkal pulled off a sharp one-handed catch at slip to bring an end to the 208-run partnership. Siraj struck again after the introduction of the second new ball, removing Dean Foxcroft for 93, just seven short of a century. Mukesh Kumar followed up by getting wicketkeeper Mitchell Hay caught behind, leaving the hosts under pressure after a productive start to the day. India A appeared to have seized control when Mukesh continued to trouble the batters and completed a five-wicket haul, finishing with figures of 5/87. Siraj claimed four wickets for 118, while Washington Sundar accounted for the other dismissal. However, the visitors could not wrap up the innings quickly. A missed opportunity to dismiss Fraser Sheat, dropped by R Smaran off Akash Deep, proved costly as the New Zealand A lower order dug in. Sheat went on to make 40, while Kristian Clarke contributed 41 and Hay had earlier added 31. The final-wicket pair of Jayden Lennox and Jarrod McKay frustrated India A for an extended period, adding 55 runs and pushing the hosts well beyond the visitors first-innings score. McKay remained composed for his 33 off 75 balls before Washington bowled him, bringing the innings to a close at 424. Lennoxs resistance helped ensure New Zealand A finished with a sizeable advantage. India A then had 11 overs to negotiate before close of play. Jaiswal, who had endured a difficult run in the earlier innings on the tour, looked more assured and was unbeaten on 20, while Sudharsan finished the day on 11. The pair avoided any late setbacks to take India A to 32/0. With the final days play remaining, India A will need to build a substantial second-innings total and turn their 46-run deficit into a challenging target for the hosts. India A then had 11 overs to negotiate before close of play. Jaiswal, who had endured a difficult run in the earlier innings on the tour, looked more assured and was unbeaten on 20, while Sudharsan finished the day on 11. The pair avoided any late setbacks to take India A to 32/0. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Virat Kohli's Home ODI Under Serious Threat, Likely To Be Shifted: Report
India are set to take on Sri Lanka in a three-match ODI series starting on December 13. The opening match was originally scheduled to be played at the Arun Jaitley Stadium in Delhi, with fans of Virat Kohli eager to watch the local star in action.
'We Walk Away Stronger': Australia Coach Despite Loss Against South Africa
Australia head coach Andrew McDonald has backed his team's batting unit despite consecutive collapses against South Africa, insisting the visitors have reasons to remain optimistic following their series defeat in Cape Town.
Andrew McDonald opens up Marnus Labuschagne's future with Australia amid continued subpar form
Australia are coming into the back of a disappointing series loss against South Africa. The two sides met across three Test matches, where despite winning the first Test, Australia succumbed to losses in the second...
'Virat Has More Chances Of Scoring A 100 Than Rohit': Pujara Backs Kohli To Shine In NZ ODIs
In New Zealand: Former India batter Cheteshwar Pujara believes Virat Kohli has a better chance than Rohit Sharma of scoring more centuries in the upcoming ODI series against New Zealand. Pujara feels Kohlis role at number three gives him a greater opportunity to build an innings and play the anchor, while Rohits usual responsibility of making an aggressive start in the powerplay could undergo a change on New Zealand pitches. The way Rohit bats, he has a role of providing good starts in the powerplay. In New Zealand, maybe that role changes, so he could go for a century. But for Virat, the chances are slightly higher because he bats at number three. His game is more about playing the anchor role. So, for a batsman coming in at number three, scoring a century in the ODI format becomes a bit easier. The openers role is also defined, but in New Zealand conditions, that changes a bit. So, I feel Virat has more chances of scoring a hundred in New Zealand than Rohit, Pujara told JioStar. Pujara also expects a closely fought contest between the two sides, predicting a 2-2 outcome across the five-match series. He believes New Zealand could have a slight edge because India are set to field different combinations across the first three and final two matches. However, he remains confident about Indias prospects in the opening leg, while anticipating a tougher challenge in the concluding fixtures. Two-all. In the first three matches, one team is playing, and then, in the last two matches, another Indian team is going to play. So, I think New Zealand have a slight advantage because you arent playing the same team in all five matches. Im still backing the Indian team in the first three matches, as I feel they will do well. However, he remains confident about Indias prospects in the opening leg, while anticipating a tougher challenge in the concluding fixtures. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Pakistan Fined By ICC After Clinching ODI Tri-Series Final. This Is The Reason
Pakistan have been fined five per cent of their match fee for maintaining a slow over-rate during the final of the ODI Tri-Series against Sri Lanka in Lahore on Saturday.
Why Kohli Scores More 100s Than Rohit
Virat Kohli's strategic anchor role at No. 3 in ODIs gives him a distinct advantage in accumulating centuries over aggressive Rohit Sharma.
'Test Series Is Decisive For Gambhir; KL, Gill Should Focus On Red Ball Game: Nayar
Nitish Kumar Reddy: Former India batting coach Abhishek Nayar believes the team management should have prioritised red-ball preparation for players featuring in both formats ahead of India's upcoming two-Test series against New Zealand, arguing that the contest carries importance for head coach Gautam Gambhir and Indian cricket fans. Speaking about the decision to split India's ODI squads for the five-match series against New Zealand, Nayar felt players such as Shubman Gill and KL Rahul would have benefited from an extended period of preparation with the red ball following the earlier Test series defeat to the Blackcaps. Nayar admitted that New Zealands previous triumph on Indian soil remained a painful memory and stressed that India must approach the upcoming assignment with the intention of returning the favour. New Zealand came to India, they beat us in the Test series, and that hurt me a little, as it did the rest of our fans too. So, its a big series. There should be a balance in life. World Cup is important, but there is some time for that. This Test series, for me, is a decisive one for Gautam Gambhir and Indian fans. So, I would have liked players like KL Rahul and Shubman Gill, who are playing both formats, to focus only on Test cricket. Because now you have to prepare for the ODIs and, after that, the Tests. So, I would rather have given them one or two months to go and practise with the red ball. Just like they beat us here in India, we should beat them there, Nayar told JioStar. India will have different leadership arrangements across the five ODIs, with Gill captaining the opening three matches before Shreyas Iyer takes charge for the final two. Gill and Rahul are expected to leave the ODI setup after the third match to begin preparations for the Test assignment. Nayar also weighed in on Yashasvi Jaiswals omission from the ODI squad, suggesting that the left-handed opener could have been encouraged to use the opportunity to strengthen his red-ball credentials through domestic cricket rather than remain on the sidelines. I know that the communication must have taken place with Yashasvi that, Look, we are not picking you because Rohit Sharma is anyway going to open with Shubman Gill. So, rather than sitting out, you prepare for New Zealand and play the Ranji Trophy, because that gives you a better chance of coming good in the Test series and helping Team India win, he added. Jaiswals absence from the ODI selections comes as India prepare to balance their limited-overs commitments with the demands of the Test format. The split squads also provide opportunities for several players to feature in the latter part of the series, with Shreyas leading a revamped group in the fourth and fifth ODIs. India ODI squad for first three matches: Shubman Gill (captain), Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, Shreyas Iyer (vice-captain), KL Rahul (wicketkeeper), Axar Patel, Naman Dhir, Anshul Kamboj, Gurnoor Brar, Ruturaj Gaikwad, Arshdeep Singh, Ishan Kishan (wicketkeeper), Mohammed Siraj, Kuldeep Yadav, Nitish Kumar Reddy (first ODI only), Auqib Nabi. Jaiswals absence from the ODI selections comes as India prepare to balance their limited-overs commitments with the demands of the Test format. The split squads also provide opportunities for several players to feature in the latter part of the series, with Shreyas leading a revamped group in the fourth and fifth ODIs. Also Read: Special Cricket Stories Article Source: IANS
Gautam Gambhir's Dressing Room Speech Comes With A Warning To Indian Team After 3-2 Series Result
After India's T20I series against New Zealand concluded with a 3-2 scoreline, Gautam Gambhir fired a warning to the team.
Rabada Vs Bumrah: Who Is the Better Test Bowler?
The numbers don't settle it. Bumrah has the lower average and is harder to score off. Rabada has the bigger pile, the ten-wicket matches, and a winning team behind him.
In a major development, CA ( Cricket Australia) came forward and named the squad for the upcoming white-ball series against England. The two arch-rivals will be taking on each other across three ODIs and three T20I matches. The ODIs will be held on November 13, 15, and 18, with the T20I matches slated to be held on November 21, 24, and 27.
Coach McDonald defends Australia after Proteas series loss
Australian coach Andrew McDonald has defended his team against a 'flood of criticism' following their 2-1 Test series loss to South Africa, acknowledging underachievement but backing the squad's core players. He addressed concerns about player performance and the team's future, particularly regarding Marnus Labuschagne and Steve Smith.
